9th feb

facebook.com/easterntoday

@easterntoday

For business, mail at: md.easterntoday@gmail.com

cmyk

cmyk

www.eastern-today.com For your copy of The Eastern Today in Khonsa please contact: Dalam Studio Near parking stand Khonsa Ph. No.-08471896580/ 07085295635

ASSENG/2015/64205

Vol. 1

WHAT HAPPENED TO ISIS'S AFGHANISTAN-PAKISTAN PROVINCE?

Issue 243

Dibrugarh, Tuesday, February 9, 2016

SIPAHI CHRONICLES: TALES OF INDIAN SOLDIERS WHO FOUGHT IN WORLD WAR I

Page 8

Page 9

Price -

5.00

Q3 PROFIT OF TATA POWER'S SLIDES 88% ON COAL INVENTORY LOSSES

Page 10

Pages- 12 HEADLEY'S DEPOSITION REVEALS CLOSE NEXUS BETWEEN ISI, LET: UJJWAL NIKAM Page 6

Dissident MLAs rubbishes the allegation made by Tuki’s Camp that AP Governor conspiring with the dissident MLAs as baseless The dissident MLAs in a press release through Pema Khandu today refuted and rubbished as baseless the allegations leveled by former CM Tuki that the Deputy Speaker’s letter to the Governor reflects the nexus between the two. The Kalikho Pul’s camp clarified that since the case is sub-judice, the Deputy Speaker has only sought queries on what can be done on the issue seeking legal directions.

Yesterday, Geetartha Darshan Barua, spokesperson for CLP leader and deposed Chief Minister Nabam Tuki, alleged that the Governor is guided by malafide intention and he had taken all decisions keeping in mind vested interests. “The Deputy Speaker’s letter to the Governor reflects the nexus between the two.

Their final aim is to lodge a government with the help of BJP without waiting for the Supreme Court order”, Barua alleged. Tuki through his spokesperson cried foul when Deputy Speaker T N Thongdok, who is in the dissi-

ET CAPSULES AAHSU withdraws Tinsukia bandh Tinsukia, Feb 8. All Assam Hindu Students Union has withdrawn its 24 hour Tinsukia and Duliajan constituency bandh following a meeting held with deputy commissioner Puru Gupta.

According to AAHSU, the meeting was also attended by ADC PK Gogoi, Executive Engineer (Dibrugarh) of PWD roads Tomjit Ali and JE PWD roads Leela Baruah. On assurances by deputy commissioner Puru Gupta regarding work to start by February 15 we withdraw the bandh call and hold all protests till Feb 15. (Correspondent)

Pema Khandu wishes Losar Pema Khandu heartily wishes “Tashi Delek” on the auspicious occasion of Losar 2016 – the New Year of 2143 Fire Monkey year of Lunar Calendar.

The festival of Losar ushers cheer and joy in our heart when everyone in the society joins each other amidst a sparkling aura of joyfulness and celebration, Pema Kandu stated. “It’s the time when we relive our centuries old culture and tradition deeply rooted to Buddhist ideas and belief”, he added.

While expressing his gratitude to Konchok Sum he wishes all to pray this Losar for blessing with better times ahead.

dent camp, has sought the opinion of the state Law Department through the Governor asking if he can function as Deputy Speaker performing the duties of Speaker when President’s Rule is in place in the state.

The dissident MLAs clarified that the Secretary of Legislative Assembly when didn’t allow the Deputy Speaker to use his official vehicle wrote to the Secretary of the Governor to provide direction to the Secretary of Legislative Assembly to arrange security arrangements and for release of vehicles provided by Legislative Assembly for the purpose of security cover. It was further mentioned that the Deputy Speaker also wrote a letter to the Governor regarding the position of the Deputy Speaker during the pendency of President’s rule.

The Dissident MLAs argued that Guwahati High Court in its order of January 13th 2016 had upheld the decision of the Governor to advance the assembly session, according to which the assembly proceedings of the December 16 & 17th, in which the Speaker

A hardcore NDFB(S) militant, Uday Narzary, alias Khilikhang, was killed on Monday during a joint army and Assam Police operation in Assam’s Chirang District.

The operation was launched on the basis of specific input about the location of Narzary.

cmyk

The encounter took place near Edenbari village. The militant fired at the security team on being challenged at the site.

Geetartha Darshan Barua, spokesperson for CLP leader and deposed Chief Minister Nabam Tuki, alleged that the Governor is guided by malafide intention and he had taken all decisions keeping in mind vested interests. “The Deputy Speaker’s letter to the Governor reflects the nexus between the two. Their final aim is to lodge a government with the help of BJP withShri Nabam Rebia was removed stands valid. Also the Supreme Court where the High Court order of January 13th is being challenged has not stayed the order yet. According to them as per Article 180

Arunachal BJP’s Jan Andolan Committee alleges Chief Secretary of Financial corruption, demand his sacking A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Feb 8

Stating that the current “Chief Secretary Ramesh Negi was hand-in-glove with the most corrupt Tuki led Congress Government,” Tame Phassang, chairman of BJP’s Jan Andolan Committee (JAC), while disclosing of their letter to the Prime Minister of India, called for sacking the chief secretary and subsequently, initiating and inquiry committee against the same, in a press conference held at the Arunachal Press Club today.

The JAC chairman alleged that Chief Secretary, Negi besides being at the helm of bureaucratic affairs during Tuki’s regime, has been involved in major financial embezzlement during his tenure as Commissioner of Finance. Also, adding that the CS along with the DGP were handed a non-bailable warrant against their name by the Gauhati High Court.

Phassang maintained that, “his continuation as chief secretary in the state will be a big obstacle for a corruption-free Arunachal.”

Also, lamenting that the 40 years misrule of the subsequent Congress Government in the state has resulted in injustice being meted out to the entire state police department in

Top NDFB (S) militant killed in encounter ANI Guwahati, Feb. 8

THE ALLEGATION

In the retaliatory fire, the militant was fatally injured and immediately evacuated to the District Hospital Chirang, where he was declared brought dead.

Narzary was the self styled Platoon Commander of the NDFB(S). He trained with the 35th NDFB batch and was wanted by the National Investigation Agency in connection with December 2014 Adivasi massacre at Saralpara.

One AK-56 Rifle, some rounds and Rs. 31,000 were recovered from the dead militant.

terms of keeping stagnant the scope of promotions, the JAC team sought the governor’s intervention for streamlining the promotional scope of the same.

Further, lashing out on the lapses in the recruitment processes of the teachers by means of ‘back door policy', Phassang maintained that “there should not be any compromise in the appointment of teachers, police and other administrative officers if we want to see the state prosper.” Also, stating that, “There have been serious irregularities in the selection and appointments of teachers under ex-Education Minister Tapang Taloh,” Phassang added that, “He will not be spared and the JAC will follow up on any cases of irregularities against his name.”

Meanwhile, in an apparent bid of their appreciation for the imposition of President’s Rule in the state, the JAC members asserted that the PR imposition has resulted in the return of normalcy in terms of law and order in the state. According to the JAC members, problems such as threatening of government officers and officials by the local leaders and workers have reduced. Further, the team also claimed that attendance of government staffs in the office have become regular and punctual.

out waiting for the Supreme Court order”, Barua alleged.

Tuki through his spokesperson cried foul when Deputy Speaker T N Thongdok, who is in the dissident camp, has sought the opinion of the state Law Department through the Governor asking if he can function as Deputy Speaker performing the duties of Speaker when President’s Rule is in place in the state.

A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Feb 8

A statement from the Raj Bhawan today clarified that there was no attempt on the part of the Raj Bhawan to favour any political party or person as the matter is already in Court as alleged yesterday by the former Chief Minister Nabam Tuki. The allegations are baseless, unfounded and mischievously put forward with ill intention, the statement added.

(1) of Constitution of India, while the office of the Speaker is vacant, the duties of office shall be performed by the Deputy Speaker.

The statement mentioned that when Secretary Legislative Assembly refused to provide vehicles on account of President Rule in the state, T.N Thungdok, Deputy Speaker called the Secretary of the Governor to direct the Secretary Legislative Assembly to allow him to use his official vehicle and security.

Contd. on Page 3

Subsequently, he also wrote

Heroin worth rupees 25 Lacs seized from Bordumsa, one arrested Spl Correspondent Tinsukia, Feb 8

In a major break through against drug pedlars in Tinsukia district and bordering Arunachal Pradesh areas, a joint team of SSB and Assam Police led by SSB Ad Hoc Commandant Parag Chaturvedi along with SSB Assistant Commandant Anjani Kumar recovered 250 gms of Heroin worth rupees 25 Lacs and a Hero Super Splendour 125 cc motorcycle worth rupees 50,000 from possession of one Ranjit Baruah at Bordumsa in Tinsukia district on Sunday.

According to sources, follow-up operations where conducted on the basis of the lead given by the peddler regarding the purchase of the suspected heroin from a cockery shop. In this connection security forces raided a cockery shop at Bordumsa market in Tinsukia district, owned by one Jogeshwar Nath @ Jaggu, sources added.

However, no similar drug

was was recovered in the shop but an amount to the tune of rupees 3,35,100/- was seized from the shop after the owner failed to provide proper justification of huge cash, said sources and added that an FIR has been lodged at Bordumsa police station and depoaited the seized items, particularly heroin worth Rs 25 lacs, motorcycle and cash rupees 3.35 Lacs with the police station.

It is important to mention here that this is the fourth such case of drug seized and pedlars arrested from different corners of Tinsukia district. Previously, police seized brown sugar, opium worth lacs of rupees and during interrogation one of the pedlars told the police that drug mafia are using new methods to transport drugs. It is learnt that in one case drug mafia had transported drug from Manipur in an oil tanker.

This revelation has also casted aspersions on their links with international drug syndicate.

Increasing drug recovery activity has confirmed inputs that Tinsukia is becoming a favourable place for drug mafia's.

Arunachal body builder crowned Mr. India junior title A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Feb 8

Mr. Nishu Konia of Arunachal Pradesh has crowned Mr. India title in junior section beating around 311 compatriots at 6th National Body Building Championship held at Bhakti Ramadasu Kalashetram Khammam, Telangana from 5th to 7th February 2016.

Mr. Konia who won Mr. ARUNACHAL TITLE2016, has become first

Arunachal to achieve the title of Mr. India in junior section.

Mr. Nishu Konia has been training under the guidance of the Arunachal Body Building Association.

Mr. Dani Salu, Secretary Sports and Youth affairs, Government of Arunachal Pradesh congratulated Mr. Nishu Konia for making Arunachal proud by becoming first Arunachalee to crown such title with his superb physiques at National level arena.

a mail to the Governor regarding the functions and power of Deputy Speaker during President Rule. Following which the Secretary of the Governor replied him to refer the matter to the Law Secretary and also send a copy to the Governor.

However, the Governor claimed that the Deputy Speaker has directly forwarded the letter to the Law Secretary and hasn’t put the draft letter for approval of the Secretary or the Governor. And despite clear direction in writing on the email copy that a copy should be sent to the Governor for information, no copy was sent to the Governor.

“A showcase notice has been issued to the Deputy Secretary as to why despite the Secretary’s instruction to send a copy to HE, he failed to do so and as to why the letter sent to Secretary (Law) was not approved by Secretary or the Governor”, informed Raj Bhawan.

A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Feb. 8

Flood Erosion Resistance Struggle Forum (FERSF) Dibrugarh and Tinsukia District today demanded the release of Rs 78.48 crore which was sanctioned for Integrated Flood and River Bank Erosion Management works at Rohmaria in Dibrugarh district. The said fund was cleared by the Technical Advisory Committee and was since then pending with the Niti Ayog.

Binod Kedia, Chief Advisor of FERSF said that the non release of the fund has greatly affected the lives and the property of the people. The forum accused Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal for not taking the matter seriously.

In a press conference, Kedia alleged, “When Sarbananda Sonowal was the sitting MP of Dibrugarh, he assured that he

would raise his voice against the decade old problem of Rohmoria and that flood and erosion would be declared as a national problem. However, when the BJP government came to power at the Centre, Sonowal has been quite about the matter and doing nothing,’’.

“Before the Lok Sabha election 2014 we have taken assurance letter from Sarbananda Sonowal and he assured us in written that if they would come to power they would try their best to solve the problem. If they cannot solve the problem they would come forward and say”, informed Kedia. It has been clear that both Rameswar Teli and Sarbananda Sonoawl is not taking the natter seriously,’’ he added.

Contd. on Page 4

BJP will be vanquished in the Assembly Election in the same manner as Mughuls were crushed at the Sariaghat Battle: CM Gogoi A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Feb 8

Guwahati, Feb 8Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi said that he is ready for the ensuing Assembly elections which the BJP has termed as the Battle of Sariaghat and said that the manner Mughals were crushed in the Sararighat Battle, the saffron party will be vanquished in the Assembly Elections in the State.

In a statement here on Monday, Gogoi said, “The ensuing Assembly elections will be a showdown between me and Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the NDA Government’s failure on all fronts and its antipeople and anti-poor policies will be his main poll planks”.

Gogoi also said that the BJPled Government at the Centre has made a u-turn on all issues concerning the people and it has utterly failed in fulfilling the poll promises made to the people. The frequent visits of the Central Ministers to Assam has been primarily aimed at covering the failure of the Central Government and it has indulged in show business and fake assurances. Gogoi also said, “Visits of the Central Ministers are aimed at hoodwinking the people and divert their attention from the failure of the Central Government”.

Even RSS Chief Mohan Bhagawat visited Assam twice recently primarily to polarise the otherwise peaceful ambience of Assam. Chief Minister

Gogoi also said, “RSS is trying tacitly to sow the seeds of discord in Assamese society which was moulded and shaped by the philosophy of Srimanta Sankardeva and Ajan Fakir. We are committed to build a Modern Assam based on the edifice laid by these saints. However, the State Government machinery is on its toes to foil any activity which is not in conformity with the teachings of Srimanta Sankardeva and Ajan Fakir”.

Gogoi also asked the BJPled Central Government to ask for the mandate of the people based on the promises and activities and not by any means which have the potential to create rift in the society and disintegrate it.

Child trampled to death by wild jumbos in Tinsukia The tragedy triggered an angry outburst from locals who blocked the Jagun-Jairampur linking Stillwell Road A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Feb. 8

A four-year-old child was trampled to death by a herd of wild elephants at Karpungpuli village in Jagun area of Tinsukia district early on Monday. Locals said that a rampaging herd consisting of 35-40 wild jumbos ran riot in the village in the early hours smashing down four huts. The victim Bikash Kaman was sleeping beside his mother inside when the elephant herd attacked and razed down their thatched house. The mother escaped with serious injuries and was admitted to a local hospital in a critical condition.

“The tragedy triggered an angry outburst from locals who blocked the Jagun-Jairampur linking Stillwell Road for nearly an hour before marching to the range forest office in Jagun, carrying the dead child

Public protest infront of Jagun forest range office at Jagun in Tinsukia on Monday. Pic - ET Photo along. The protestors numbering hundreds raised slogans against the forest department and pelted stones at the office before ransacking it,’’ said a local resident to the Correspondent over phone.

and refused to take it away. The impasse continued for over an hour till senior forest officials arrived and managed to placate the crowd who demanded adequate compensation for the victim's family.

The livid crowd meanwhile placed the body of the child atop a table inside the office

Contd. on Page 4

cmyk

ET Bureau New Delhi, Feb 8

FERSF demands release of sanctioned Fund for Integrated Flood and River Governor says Tuki’s allegations Bank Erosion Management forwarded with ill intention works at Dibrugarh district

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9

PAGE 2

ASTRO FOR YOU Aries If you are a gadget freak, today you will have enough opportunity to flaunt your knowledge and impress everyone else. Students with a scientific bent of mind will excel in studies. Housewives are advised to experiment with their own recipes, and not to worry about the oven – it will not burst.

Taurus This day, you need to watch out against your selfish and possessive tendencies. Do not be too determined or demanding. Try to not to be self centered. Do not impose your need and wishes on anyone. You should act generously towards one and all; particularly towards your spouse. This, you can be sure, will increase and enhance the love, warmth and intimacy you share with the others.

Gemini You will be busy organising some religious function today or in visiting a place of religious significance. You will encounter expenses in religious and charitable work. However, you should guard against ignoring your daily work in pursuit of all these matters.

Cancer Today, you will put your heart and soul into whatever task you take up. But the results may not be too forthcoming. However, that should not be a reason for you to get dejected or anxious. You will get your due sooner or later. Also, spending some time with your loved ones will be quite gratifying emotionally.

Leo You will leave no stone unturned to satisfy and please your partner today. So your chances of slipping up are very slight. You will be able to impress your partner today. You need to be careful in all your financial dealings today.

Virgo A renewed zest for life will bring in a transformation in you. It is a good time to let people know how important and intelligent – yes, you can be both – are. Your eminence will be obvious as you show how things are meant to be done.

Libra Good news! You will be a people’s person today. Close friends, relatives and family — you seem to want to spend your time with all of them today. Your romantic brilliance will be at its peak today as your fancy takes wings and creativity flows freely in manners that seem irresistible.

Scorpio A cascade of let-downs will dent your confidence and shake your determination. But don’t let these failures affect you as they are temporary. At work, your subordinates may force you to take drastic measures.

Sagittarius A cheerful you, your energy level is on an all time high. You will enroll you name for a correspondence or a part-time course. This will boost your confidence and brush up your memory as well. People who are in legal profession will have a rocking day ahead.

Capricorn After running about helter-skelter for getting your work done, you will sit back and spend the day planning the course of future action. Sudden and unexpected profits are on the cards, but you will need to be mindful of how best you utilise it. You can expect a few good opportunities to knock at the door, but open the door before they turn to look for shelter elsewhere.

Aquarius You will remember this day for the rest of of life as today you will make some important decisions and give a new direction to your life. You are in for a windfall and cherry on the cake will be all the recognition and rewards you get for your sincerity and hard work.These positive vibes will help you make sure that you are on the right track.

Dima Hasao gearing up for ensuing Assembly Election ET Correspondent Haflong, Feb 8 : In view of the ensuing Assam Legislative Assembly Election, 2016, different cells are constituted for the smooth and efficient conduct of election. All the cells will start functioning with immediate effect. The District Election Cell shall be headed by the Deputy Commissioner cum District Election Officer with the following members including the Principal Secretary (T) NCHAC, Superintendent of Police, ADC's, Election Officer, Assistant Commissioners, ERMSNodel and Technical Officer and Head Assistant of the Election Branch. A Personnel cell is being constituted with the Principal Secretary (T) NCHAC, Haflong as the Cell-in-charge to be assisted by ADC and Election officer.

At the same time, Media Centre/Cell has also been constituted with DIPRO as the Cell-in-charge and SDIPRO as the assisting Officer.

New scheme for vegetable vendors, milkman and petty traders A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Feb 8: Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today said the State Government is mulling a new scheme for vegetable vendors, milkman and petty traders by providing necessary infrastructure so that they can carry out their businesses without any dif-

ficulty.

Gogoi said that the new scheme will be taken up soon to provide the necessary infrastructure to the vegetable vendors, milkmen and petty traders who have been contributing to the State’s economy in no small measure. The new scheme will focus

on diary, poultry and the police administrahorticulture. tion not to stop the vegetable vendors, The Chief Minister also milkmen and petty asked the concerned traders from carrying department to start the out their businesses in process immediately the city. The Chief for setting up a Diary Minister directed the Science College to Additional Chief Secboost the diary sector in retary, Home & Politia big way. cal, MGVK Bhanu to initiate necessary Gogoi also directed steps in this regard

Ganja worth around Rs 10 lakh seized from luxury vehicle ET Correspondent Mangaldai, Feb 8: The illegal peddlers of ganja, cocaine and other narcotic substances who has been frequently using the NH 15 as the safe passage to carry these banned to the smuggling market outside the state allegedly with the help of a section of corrupt excise and police officials presently serving in Darrang and Udalguri districts have applied new tactics of transporting these illegal substance .

However new tactic has surprisingly come to light today when police from Dhula police station managed to seize around 75 kilograms of ganja in 15 different bags carried in luxury Mehindra Verito ve-

Ganja seized from Mahindra Verito. ET - Photo

hicle at Bologorha area on the NH 15. It was neither the

excise officials nor the police who intercepted the vehicle

BPF will support BJP outside BTC: Hagrama Mohilary

Pisces You would do well to make a to-do list today, if only to gain a realistic perspective of how much you want done and how much you can achieve in the time you have available.

Making unreasonable demands from yourself will only lead to further delays.

PRASAR BHARATI (India's Public Service Broadcaster) ALL INDIA RADIO : DIBRUGARH (M.W.529.1m/KHz567 F.M. 101.30 MHz) Phone No.-03732325456 E-mail -dibrugarh@air.org.in Facebook Page-All India Radio Dibrugarh Programme Highlights 9-2-16 (TUESDAY) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha 6-15 A.M-Classical Music (Flute Recital) 6-50 A.M-Tokari Geet 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Highlights of 12th South Asian Games 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 A.M-Geetimanjari 1-10 P.M- Troops Programme 2-00 P.M-Sponsored Programme-"Jaga Grahak Jaagaa" 2-30 P.M-Western Music Programme 3-10 P.M-Selfie from North East 3-45 P.M-Programme in Mizumishimi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 7-15 P.M-Chah Sramikor Asor 8-00 P.M-Bigyan Jeuti 9-30 P.M-Sahitya Kanan 10-00 P.M-Classical Musics

BPF chief Hagrama Mohilary addresing a huge gathgering at Rangia Dolegaon on Monday. ET- Photo

Sd-/H.O.P

ET Correspondent Rangia Feb. 8: Bodoland Peoples’ Front will support Bharatiya Janta Party outside Bodoland Territorial Council in ensuing assembly poll of Assam stated by BTC Chief Hagrama Mohilary before the vast gathering at Rangia Dolegaon on Monday. According to Mahilary Congress and AUIDF will get only 20 to 25 seats but BJP with the help of BPF will form the next government.

In his speech he told that after election the BPF and BJP government will form

Tamulpur and Gosaigaon district with Goreswar and Kachugaon Sub division after election.

The vision document of BPF will be published on February 10 Hagrama declared. He will construct Rangia - Goreswar Road, Railway over bridge at Goreswar, Tangla, Basugaon this year and Fakiragram and Udalguri next year as declared in the meeting.

He will also give Rs 5 crores to Assam Polyester Mill,

Tulsibari Rangia to revive the mill from BTC package Hagrama declared before the gathering. He slammed Cong government and Promod Baro the president of ABSU for their activities.

The BPF will help BJP in about 30 constituencies outside BTC area and BJP will definitely win in those seats and will form the next govt he told.

He will pay Rs 8000 each to 200 SHG in each constituency with in BTC area and after election he will extend this scheme to

non BTC area also he stated.

The rally was presided over Keshav Rajbongshi, president BPF Tamulpur district committee.

Biswajit Daimary MP RS, Maheswar Basumatary and Dr. Mrinal Deka candidate of BPF for Rangia constituency also spoke before the gathering. They requested the gathering to caste vote in favor of Dr. Mrinal Deka for al round development of Rangia constituency.The meeting was organized by BPF Tamulpur district.

but it is only after the speedy vehicle bearing registration no. ASO1 BL 5920 coming from Rowta direction towards Mangaldai hit a sand carrying truck with registration no. ANZ 1052 at around 6-30 am. According to the local people the three passengers of the vehicle including one lady immediately fled away leaving their damaged car.

The police has reportedly identified the owner of the vehicle as one Sujoy Boro.

The police has anticipated the value of the seized ganja as around Rs 10 lakh in the international smuggling market. The police has started investigation in search of the illegal peddlers , however no arrest could be made so far.

Devastating fire at Diphu ET Correspondent Diphu Feb 8: In a devastating fire in a psalm area of Diphu town last night nearly 17 houses belonging mostly to BPL families were completely gutted. The fire which is suspected to have been sparked off from a electric short circuit around 7.00 PM soon engulfed the whole settlement of close clustered houses rented by one Sanjib Verma in Harilal Basti locality of the town, one after other filled up LPG cylinders detonated coming in contact with fire created wide spread panic in the whole area.

Bad communication prevented fire tenders in reaching the place of incident; however one fire brigade engine reached the place when fire had swallowed up the whole settlement.

No one was injured in the incident and one newly constructed school narrowly escaped the inferno. Till now no official aid has been given to the victims nor has any political party distributed single humanitarian assistance among the fire prey.

CM's Special award distributed at Haflong Free medical Health camp in Jagun

ET Correspondent, Haflong, Feb 8 : Assam Chief Minister's special award giving ceremony was held at Cultural Institute Hall, Haflong , where 344 numbers of students who passed in second division of High School leaving certificate examination at Dima Hasao recieved tablet PC's.

The programme was organised by the Dima Hasao District Administration in association with Education Department, Dima Hasao, Haflong. M.J Thaosen, Assistant Com-

missioner presided over the programme.

In his speech Assistant Commissioner Thaosen congratulated the students who secured marks 51% and above. He also congratulated and thanked the parents and the students and lauded the government of Assam for encouraging the students of Assam by awarding such type of modern equipments for equipping themselves for advancing towards the age of HITECH. B.C Langthasa, a senior citi-

zen, a writer and poet of Dima Hasao advised the students present to maintain the feeling of unity among the students and encouraged to take-up skilled education so they may not be deprived of their livelihood in future.

The programme was also attended by various dignitaries, officers and staff of various government departments, parents, teachers and general public. The programme was ended with vote of thanks by Gayatri Naiding, Inspector of Schools. (DIPRO)

ET Correspondent Margherita, Feb. 8: Yog Vidya Pitham NGO of Margherita Organised a Free Medical Health Camp at Chandrapur LP School Jagun under Margherita Sub division on Sunday.

The programme began with the Lighting of Lamp by Tukheswar Gogoi Headmaster of Chandrapur LP School Jagun.All the present

guests were welcome by a Assamese Phoolam Gamocha by the organiser. Mrs Manju Dey Chief Advisor of Yog VidyaPitham NGO said in his inaugural speech that there are many people who donot have huge amount to get treatment at Multi Storey Hospitals but if one Practice Yoga Sincerely than he or she can get cure from many

diseases which only concentration is need to do and which is free of Cost.Mrs Manju Dey request all the people living at Jagun Region to come forward and built a Yoga Centre at Jagun so that many people specially College and School Students can learn the Ancient Exercise of our Country which is now a day’s very essential to promote.

Doctors from Central Hospital Coal India Ltd Margherita such as Dr Manobrato Gogoi,Dr Mrs Mousami Gogoi and Dr Swarup Das while Dr Salix Alam from Jagun Public Health Centre who were present and have cure the patients very sincerely.

More than 400 patients from Jagun Region came and got good treatment including

free medicines also.Dr Manobrato Gogoi President of Yog Vidyapitham NGO of Margherita gave vote of Thanks to those persons who have attended the programme.Deep Acharjee Assistant Secretary, Chandan Debnath,DC Sonar and others members of Yog Vidyapitham were also present at the Free Medical Health Camp programme.

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9

PAGE 3

One Day Orientation Training Programme at Roing Roing, Feb 8: One Day Orientation Training Programme on National De-worming Day was imparted to ASHAs, Nodal Teachers of Schools and Anganwadi Workers under Roing CD Block at Anchal Samiti Hall here today.

National De-worming Day will be observed on February 10 next in all the 36 states of India in which all the children from 1-19 years will be given Albendazole, deworming tablet on this day, informed Dr R Mena, DRCHO Roing while imparting the training as resource person.

The de-worming tablet will be given through the platform of Schools including private schools and the Anganwadi Cen-

tres. It will be followed by mop-up-day on February 15 next in which all the unregistered children i.e., non-school goer children will also be covered, added Dr Mena.

Tablets will be given under the supervision of trained ASHAs, School Nodal Teachers and Anganwadi Workers.

There is no report of adverse affect till now, Dr Mena informed, but if any adverse affect are found, one must immediately contact the nearest Health Centres or the Hospitals, he added.

Altogether 75 participants including ASHAs, School Nodal Teachers and Anganwadi Workers attended the training programme. (DIPRO)

Grand chariot festival Poi-Leng begins Namsai, Feb 8: The threeday grand chariot festival locally known as Poi-Leng got started today at Namsai Poi-Leng Ground at the bank of Dihing river with great enthusiasm and participation of large number of people from all walks of life. The Poi-Leng celebration is held in honour of Late Venerable Nyanapriyo Bhikkhu Mahathero of Port-Blair, Andaman who attained Nibbana (Nirvana) on January 8, 2016.

The festival started with hoisting of World Buddhist flag, offering of breakfast to Bhikkhu Sangha and chanting of mangala charan.

People in great number thronged the ground to witness the installation of mortal remaining of Late Venerable Nyanapriyo Bhikkhu Mahathero to decorated chariot from Nibbana (Nirvana) Temple and to drag the chariot constructed temporarily to preserve the mummified body of the

nify the quality of greatness of Dhamma of the late venerable one. The chariot has three layers, all items donated by various people are placed in the first layer and in the second layer the lifeless body of the venerable one are placed and the third layer is shaped like a temple. The number of layers in the chariots can vary.

venerable one. The body of the venerable one will be kept in chariot for three days from today and people from all walks will have the opportunity to pull the decorated golden swan chariot.

The Poi-Leng is the celebration of reflection of possession of a noble soul of Late Venerable Nyanapriyo Bhikkhu Mahathero who during his life span of 68 years has spent 43 Vassa (monkhood) since his higher ordination to Bhikkhu on May 30, 1973.

With his death (nibbana) the entire Buddhist community has lost a respectable Buddhist Bhikkhu who was loved and respected by all people irrespective of caste, creed and religion.

The Poi-Leng Celebration Committee under the guidance of Venerable Abbot of Namsai Priyatti Sasana Buddha Vihara Venerable B.Aggadhamma Mahathero has ensured all effort to make the Poi-Leng celebra-

Social Services conducted at Seppa under Clean Arunachal Campaign

Grand chariot festival Poi-Leng begins tion a successful event.

Community feast for all during the three days celebration is arranged and will be kept open at the venue. The main attraction of the festi-

Rahul Singh joins as Addl.

Deputy Commissioner

ties are being taking place in different part of the Seppa Township. On 6th February, 2016, the residents of the colony have conducted social service at Boso Colony, Seppa.

Social Services conducted at Seppa under Clean Arunachal Campaign Seppa, Feb 7: A series of social services were conducted with the theme "my city my pride" at various locations of the Seppa Township. On 5th February,

2016, social services were conducted in the offices of Dy. Director (Industries) and DIPRO, Seppa. Shri N. Doka, ADI cum DIPRO i/c and Staffs of these two de-

partments together have actively participated in this social cause. They have pledged to continue this endeavor with same zeal and enthusiasm. Similar activi-

Clean Arunachal Campaign at Namsai, ZCS

Similarly, under the initiative of the Department of UD & Housing, Seppa Division and with the cooperation of Sector Officers, colony representatives, and NGOs like Changtam Ane, WWO and Mothers' Group several social services were conducted on 7th February, 2016. With the motto "Clean Arunachal" and "Swachch Bharat Abhiyan", DD (UD&Housing), administrative officers, officers, DVO, UPO and staffs, public and children have actively participated in the social services conducted at Dokum Colony, Type IV colony, Kameng Tampa, Shantipur and Abo Tani colony.

val is the decorated golden swan designed chariot with 6 wheels constructed and built in 22 days by Venerable Sobhita Bhikkhu of Borpathar Buddhist Temple

Rahul Singh Pasighat, Feb 8: Rahul Singh, hailing from Delhi is an IAS officer of 2013 batch has joined today as the new Additional Deputy Commissioner of Pasighat after transfer of Deepak Shinde on promotion to East Kameng as Deputy Commissioner.

The officer bears an outstanding academic record.

Bachelor in Electronics and Communication, Singh served in Tata Consultancy and Fidelity Investment in UK for five years. In the year 2011-12, Singh had

secured 119th rank and inducted to IPS but the burning desire did not end there.

In 2013, the sitting IPS broke all the shackles in grabbing IAS, securing 13th rank in the nation.

In message to the people, Singh said, "I will be able to achieve my vision under dynamism of the present Deputy Commissioner Isha Khosla and experiences of senior officers in the discharge of duty.

Implementation of all development works will be my top priority. I will ensure transparent and clean administration and will personally monitor all the development works assigned to me of Pasighat Municipal Council and Smart City Mission as MEO. I welcome all officers and staffs including common public to redress their complaints/ grievances on a priority basis and seek their supports and cooperation in the state building process". (DIPRO)

Karbi Anglong (Assam) with help from 10 other monks, novice and Kappiya (disciple) at the Bank of River Noa-Dihing. The 6 wheels on the chariot sig-

The lifeless mummified body of Late Venerable Nyanapriyo Bhikkhu Mahathero was preserve with great respect and honour for 1 month at the of river Noa-Dihing in Nibbana (Nirvana) Kyong (Temple) at Namsai PoiLeng Ground from January 9. The lifeless body was preserved by mummifying with cotton cloth dip in wax and covered with tobacco leaf.

Illumination of candles was the other attraction of the event for today.

Governor conveys Losar greetings A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Feb 8: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Shri JP Rajkhowa has conveyed warm greetings and good wishes to the people of Arunachal Pradesh on the festive occasion of Losar for a happy and prosperous year ahead.

In his festival message

for Losar, which marks the beginning of the Buddhist New Year, the Governor wished that the occasion brings tranquility and contentment in the society. He expressed hope that the Fire-Simian year will herald a new year full of dharma, transformation and taking good care of all human being.

Free Medical Camp organized by 14 Assam Rifles in Changlang

Dissident MLAs rubbishes the allegation made

by Tuki’s Camp that AP Governor conspiring with the dissident MLAs as baseless Contd. from Page 1

Namsai, Feb 8: As part of the Directive of the DC, Namsai, teachers and students of Zenith Child School, Namsai participated with passionate enthusiasm in the “Clean Arunachal Campaign”, to mark the 30 years of Statehood day with the

motto “My Town my Pride” from tinali to Circuit house in the Namsai township at 6:00 am to 8:00 am. The Zenithians along with the government employees and people from all walks of life were involved actively and with great fervour

and joy in the Cleanliness Drive to make Namsai a clean town. The D C of Namsai Mr. R K Sharma has encouraged the fervent participant. Such initiatives taken by the government will certainly result in keeping the state clean.

Unabated illegal cow trafficking need a check Maksam Tayeng Pasighat, Feb 8: Due to growing demands for cow and oxen in the domestic as well as in international markets like Bangladesh for meat and other purposes, the middlemen and brokers from outside the state are doing round in the villages to purchase cows which are usually being sold in very cheap prices by the village folks of this innocent land.

But, the rapid increase of these businesses here has took another ugly turn putting innocent and poor villagers in trouble as several oxen are being trafficked in night hours which are illegally captured by some local middlemen thereby leading some farmers to stop or abandoning tilling their lands. The farmers here in the foothills and flood plains of Siang valley uses oxen to cultivate their irrigational fields for which every households keep at least a pair or two of Oxen by the onset of monsoon

to cultivate irrigational paddy fields which are main crop of the people. In the recent past many villagers has reported of their oxen and cows missing and subsequent enquiry has led to trafficking through these said illegal trades as many fraudulent and astray middlemen from own locality are selling it off to them (illegal traders from outside). The cows and oxen which are left to graze openly with no confinement unlike in other states are prone to such illegal trafficking due to which missing of oxen are realized only when time for agriculture comes.

Taking these openness in advantage, hundreds and thousands of cow and oxen has been reported to be illegal trafficked till today which need to be cracked down sooner or later.

When contacted, SP East Siang R. S. Chouhan last evening over such trafficking of cows at night hours vehicle

of which was seen parked at Raneghat Check Gate, he assured to take up appropriate measures to check the illegalities. As per Chouhan’s direction SDPO A. Taying immediately took stock of the case and on cross verification, the said cow laden vehicle was found with valid documents being obtained from Gaon Buras from some villages of Lower Dibang Valley. However, Taying bowed down to crack such unabated illegalities and has directed men in uniform manning Check gates at Raneghat, 2 Mile and Ruksin to check it. Taying also confirmed the existence of such illegal trades as some gangs were busted out in the past at Ruksin areas too. Meanwhile, police personnel’s taking bribes at check gates over such illegalities besides operating like a toll gate would be viewed seriously, added Taying who didn’t rule out involvement of men in uniforms in such activities to earn extra bucks.

They also stated that as per article 179, the incumbent in the office of the Speaker does not vacate his office even when the Assembly is dissolved or when the state is under President’s rule. The office of the Speaker cannot be kept vacant even for a day.

“Accordingly, the Deputy Speaker performing duties of Speaker, being the de facto occupant of the office of the Speaker in compliance with article 180 (1), does not vacate his office when the Legislative Assembly is in suspended animation when a proclamation under article 356 is operative in relation to Arunachal

Pradesh”, they added.

The dissident MLAs hold the view that the Deputy Speaker’s letter requesting recall of all his security arrangements and official cars is in accordance to the law.

“He is still entitled to all such facilities even when the Assembly is under suspended animation on account of President’s rule”.

They point out.

VHAA welcomes Dhaka Declaration on Sustainable development goal A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Feb. 8: Voluntary Health Association of Assam (VHAA) has welcomed the Dhaka Declaration on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) action in South Asia which has endorsed initiative to make South Asia tobacco free by 2030.

“We welcome India’s decision to endorse the Dhaka Declaration to make South Asia tobacco-free by 2030. It is also indeed very commendable and significant that Indian Legislators are also leading from the front in the context of tobacco control.

The Hon. Speaker of Lok Sabha,Sumitra Mahajan has reiterated India’s commitment in the war against the tobacco epidemic, including India’s new warning labels,” said Ruchira Neog, Executive Secretary Voluntary Health Association of Assam.

The Dhaka declaration which was taken during the South Asian Speakers’ Summit on

Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) held at the Bangladesh capital on January 30 and 31, 2016, stated “We recognize that a tobacco-free South Asia by 2030 is important to ensuring health and wellbeing of the people of the region. As Speakers of Parliament in the region, we see the value of meeting on a regular basis to share experiences and best practices, as well as to review progress on the implementation of the SDGs.” Speakers of Parliament from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives and Sri Lanka, gathered in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on 30 and 31 January 2016 for the South Asian Speakers’ Summit on Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In South Asia, tobacco is the leading cause of non-communicable diseases, which in South Asia kills 1.5 million people annually of which 1 million in India. South Asian Parliament speakers have

agreed to prioritize tobacco control policies – in particular, those of the World Health Organization Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), in their efforts to meet the SDGs and to achieve a tobacco-free South Asia by 2030.

India will host the second meeting of South Asian Speakers’ Forum in 2017.

Hon. Sumitra Mahajan, Speaker of the Lok Sabha, attended the event and chaired a session on “The role of parliaments in implementing the SDGs.” Voluntary Health Association of Assam, a premier nonprofit organization working in the field of public health.

For the last few years VHAA has been working concertedly on the issue of tobacco control both through direct intervention initiatives and activities towards making smoke free districts and tobacco free educational institutions, as well as through high level advocacy and campaigning for policy level changes towards tobacco control.

Free Medical Camp organized by 14 Assam Rifles in Changlang

ET Correspondent Changlang, Feb 8 : The 14 Assam Rifles under the aegis of 25 Sector organized a Free Medical Camp at Old Sasum Village in Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh under the provision of Military Civil Action (MCA) Project

on Sunday. Besides providing free Medicines to 128 patients, health tips and dressing were also provided to the local people free of cost. The medical camp was conducted to curb the common preventable diseases that were prevailing in the region.

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9

PAGE 4

Khumtai People Came Out to Construct Rural Road ET Correspondent Golaghat , Feb 8: As the days for assembly election are coming closer the ruling Congress party is now busy advertising its so called good governance and all round development in the state in the last fifteen years . But still there are places in the state which show an opposite scenario of the so called development slogan of the ruling party . Today large number of people of one of the remarkable constituencies in Assam the Khumtai constituency in

Veteran Citizen Madanlal Khaitan is no more

Golaghat district came out and gathered at a place . The people began reconstruction of a rural road spending their own money . The Sonkola Tiniali Machkhowachuk connecting rural road was in a devastating condition . The worst condition of the only road for the people of more than three thousand have made them to suffer a lot.

After repeated appeals and urge to the concerned authorities and local MLA these large section of people did not get any positive re-

CM Gogoi dares Sonowal to comeout with fact sheet A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Feb 8: Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today dared State BJP President Sarbananda Sonowal to come out with fact sheet as to what the previous and the present BJP-led NDA Governments had done for perpetuating the memory of saint-social reformer Srimanta Sankaradeva.

Madanlal Khaitan ET Correspondent Golaghat, Feb 8: One of the leading citizens of Golaghat, political, social and cultural activist Madanlal Khaitan breathed his last after prolonged illness at his residence in Golaghat today.

Madanlal Khaitan was born on 30 May 1929. He completed his BA degree with Honours in Assamese from Debraj Roy College in Golaghat as a first batch student. He then engaged himself in family business.

Madanlal Khaitan was a multitalented person. He showed his talents in the literature, culture and sports fields. He translated the famous Assamese play Maniram Dewan from Assamese to Hindi which was unveiled by the then President of Asom Sahitya Sabha Dr Bhupen Hazarika. He also played the lead role in the play several times in the stage. Madanlal Khaitan was elected as a member for the Golaghat Municipal Board for the maximum time. Later on 10 September 1959 he was elected as the Chairman of Golaghat Municipal Board. He was also associated with several organisation of Golaghat.

He was the founder General Secretary of United Chamber of Commerce Golaghat and lifetime member of Amateur Theater Society, Asom Sahitya Sabha, ISCKON and other such organizations. He was also the Governing Body member of several educational institutions in Golaghat. He served for the greater interest of the society and the deprived class masses.

His death is mourned by people and organisations in Golaghat. Tomorrow his last rites will be performed.

ply . At last they decided to construct and repair their own road with their own money and so today men women and children came out and started doing work for the road . The local people even arranged dumpers and JCB in construction work with their own expenses . They criticised the role of their elected representative Bismita Gogoi and made a remarkable statement that they are now in search of an alternative candidate for the upcoming assembly elections .

In a statement here, Chief Minister Gogoi said that State BJP President Sonowal has been spreading canards against the State Government for showing ‘disrespect’ to Srimanta Sankaradeva which is false, absurd and ridiculous.

“Our Government has been doing everything possible to perpetuate the hallowed memory of the great saint-social re-

former. Grants have been given to the satras, bhaona has been promoted, and recently we decided to name the Assam Houses and Bhawans after the Mahapurusha. By doing all this, are we showing any kind of disrespect to the Mahapurusha? What did the previous and present BJP-led NDA Governments have done in this regard. Will Sonowal spell it out,” he said.

Gogoi said when the BJP national leaders do not know about the Mahapurusha and call him ‘Sankar Baba’ then what could be expected from them. “Let the BJP leaders first know about the great saint-social reformer and his ideals before they can think of doing something in his honour,” he added.

A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Feb. 8: In a bid to create awareness among citizens about their voting rights, IITGuwahati (IIT-G) students undertook acampaign that aims to enlighten citizens about their right to vote and how they could exercise their right.

On February 6, team Techniche of IIT-G went to about 20 villages where they raised awareness about elections and successfully collected 200 registrations for Voter IDs.

The campaign --- 'Wake Up and Vote' --- launched by the students of IITGuwahati in the city, is part of the Institute's techno-management festival Techniche from September one next.

The right to vote campaign is aimed at spreading awareness that voting builds a healthier nation and strengthens democracy, said Techniche convenor Vikram Aditya on Monday.

Stating Techniche has al-

ways been a torch bearer when it comes to rights and duties of the citizens of India, Aditya said backed up with an enormous success in 2014 where Techniche successfully had thousands of people take a pledge to vote throughout the country, this year team Techniche is back with full force for the upcoming Assam elections.

In this respect the team is helping the Election Commission to get Voter ID cards of hundreds of

people in Guwahati who do not have a photograph on their card, he said.

"Next we have many events and campaigns planned to educate the state to the need to vote.

Wake up and Vote is what the state needs right now and team Techniche is in full support with all our might", said Rajat, an organising committee member of Techniche 2016.

Golapi Das, booth level officer (BLO) of Hajo

Constituency said: "It was a great experience working with the students of IIT-Guwahati. The team effort was brilliant. This is the first time any student community stepped in to help people correct their errors in the Voter ID cards and formulation of new ones".

"People with the errors in their Voter ID face many problems for verification process and this effort from Techniche just before the Assam elections is worth applauding", Das added.

Workshop on nanotechnology ASSU staged protest in Rangia at ADBU concludes A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Feb 8: To promote research in nanotechnology study, the Assam Don Bosco University (ADBU) School of Technology Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) in collaboration with Tezpur University Department of Physics organised amazing NANO-2016, a weeklong national workshop on Nanotechnology in Guwahati.The participants in the workshop, organised from February 1 to 6, interacted with research persons who are renowned in different areas of Nanoscience and Nanotechnology including Dr P Deb, Dr G Ahmed, Dr. S. Das from Tezpur University, Prof.

Utpal Bora from IIT Guwahati, and Prof.

Pranayee Dutta from Gauhati University.

namely Prof Louis Hornyak from Asian Institute of Technology, Bangkok, Dr. Hassan Jafri from Uppsala University, Sweden, Prof Achintya Bezbaruah from North Dakota State University, USA and Dr. Pankaj Thakuria from Forschungszentrum Jlich, Germany. Commenting on the event, Vice Chancellor of ADBU, Dr Stephen Mavely said, This workshop is one of its kind in the North East and I hope that the region excel in research in nanotechnology.

The convener of the workshop and Head of ECE department Dr Sunandan Baruah said, the workshop provided a unique platform to the young and enthusiastic researchers especially from the northeastern part of India, to get initiated into the latest technology expanding around the world through natural analogies, theoretical concepts, practical sessions and logical

analysis.Known as the nano man of northeast India specialized in N a n o t e c h n o l o g y, Nanoelectronics and Embedded Systems, Dr Baruah emphasised the fact that through the workshop, the participants covered the basics of nanotechnology which is not in the curriculum of most colleges in northeast India and will further help them explore and move into nano applications.

The Director of Institute of Advance Study in Science and Technology (IASST) Guwahati Prof N.C. Talukdar was the keynote speaker at the inaugural session which had over 50 participants. Besides ADBU scholars and faculty members, there are 25 participants, both students and research scholars, from Northeastern Hill University Shillong and Gauhati University took part in the national workshop.

ASSU staged protest in Rangia ET Correspondent Rangia Feb 8 : All Assam Student Union Rangia local unit staged in dharna at Rangia Block dev office on Monday. The organisetion this protest progm alleging huge scandal in all the Panchayets under Rangia Block Development office.The protester also shouted slogans in support of their demands. Hundreds of students including Dwip Darshan.

Anchalik President and Dhrubajyoti Kalita anchalik sec were participated in the protest progm. The student leaders alleged that for the negligence of Rangia BDO corruption in all the panchayets he increased day by day. Neither BDO nor the state govt enquered about the havoc corruption of the panchayets of Rangia as a result the poors are deprived from the panchayets schemes.

Non-transparency in appointment against LDA post in Omeo Das FERSF demands release of sanctioned Fund HighSchool alleged. for Integrated Flood and River Bank Erosion Management works at Dibrugarh district Four Skype sessions offered lectures from nano experts of research centres

ET Correspondent Tezpur, Feb 8: People of the greater Bandarmari area have expressed their total dissatisfaction over the non-transparent appointment process against the LDA post of Omeo Das High School under the inspector of Schools, Sonitpur District circle. It needs mention here that there was a post of LDA lying vacant in the secondary level school after the retirement of the previous LDA Deben Bhengra during the month of November, 2014.

However, for the fulfillment of the post as per the guideline of the office of the inspector of schools, SDC an interview was held on January 19 and 23 comprising written, computer and vivavoce tests of a total of 120 marks. For the post a total of 28 candidates were interviewed. But allegation has been rift that without hanging any kind of merit list or result of the interview maintaining a nexus with the interview board, SMDC, Headmaster of the school and the inspector of the schools, son of the chairman of the SMDC

was appointed violating all sort of norms.

Different organizations including Bahbari Sub-Branch of Assam Tea Tribe Student’s Association (ATTSA) alleged that though before giving appointment against the post hanging of the merit list is a mandatory criteria it was not done which was strictly followed in case of other schools including Prajapoti Higher Secondary school and Keherukhonda High School falling under the same authority. In a press release, president and secretary of the local students’ body respectively Chatrapati Bhumij and Pranjal Kurmi alleged that taking advantage of being the chairman of the SMDC of the school and political power chairman of the SMDC, of the school, Ramani Saikia has manipulated the entire process in favour of his son depriving the genuine candidates. “If the transparency is not maintained in the process we will move to the court seeking legal assistance and stage democratic movement against the authority concerned.” The office bearers of the organization maintained.

Sarbananda Sonwal to visit KA ET Correspondent Diphu February 8: President of Assam Pradesh BJP and Central Minister Sarbananda Sonwal will attend a party meeting in Phuloni area of east Karbi Anglong tomorrow.

Most likely Sonwal will also meet the leaders of the Bodo frontal organizations at Langhing to seal off the post electoral bind with the Bodo community of Karbi Anglong.

The place is considered as the bastion of the Bodo community of the district whose unbroken vote bank influence both Howraghat and Diphu LA constituency.

Guwahati IIT undertook awareness campaign on Right to vote

The recent agreement with BTAD Chief Hagrama Muhalery and the BJP may surely ensure smooth sail for BJP in both Diphu and Howraghat legislative assembly. The inclination of Bodo vote along with the sway of bulk of non Karbi votes against the incumbency infected district Congress may also cause disaster for the ruling party in Bokajan constituency where internal conflict of Congress has caused early doom for the party. The elected MLA of Bokajan Klengdun Engti and the son of the incumbent MP of the hills Biren Sing Engti has failed even to garner the

support of the locally elected Member of Autonomous Council (from Congress) in most of the party meetings which he is addressing recently ahead of the crucial election.

Central Minister Sarbananda Sonwal will reach Diphu tomorrow morning to attend a programme organized by the Nehru Youvak Kendra (NYK) and shall fly back to Phuloni where he will attend a party meeting. DEtalis of his day’s programme could not be gathered till filing of this report; Sonwal’s tie-up with the Bodo leadership may upset poll equation of the ruling party.

Contd. from Page 1

The Forum said that in 2012, Vijay Goel, then General Secretary and in-charge of Assam BJP said that the BJP would meet and demand the Prime minister of India Dr Manmohan Singh to declare Flood and Erosion Problem of Assam as National Disaster to this issue.

The forum stated that the present time is suitable for harnessing the erosion

problem and the Govt should immediately start implementing of the project by immediate release of the fund.

“After completion of the proposed project the entire Rohmaria area comprising of villages like Bogoritolia, Rohmaria, Gorpora, Habichuk, Kasuani including the vast adjoining areas extending up to Chabua town, Lohowal town etc would be benefited,’’ said Ghonen Gogoi, Advisor of Rohmaria Erosion

Resaistance and Struggle Forum.

He said many oil installations like Hazel Bank Chabua, Phukankhat etc and Air force station and the army cantonment would also be benefitted.

Bharadwaj district cultural Sec, Hemanta Das sub division Sec, Toufic Rahman

from Gorpora to Kasuani was completed and another 6.4 km work from Gorpora to Bogoritolia has been left.

“Last year at Bogoritolia seven houses washed away in the river and till now the people has not rehabilitated,’’ said Gogoi.

A total area of 36000 hectares and population of around 1, 80,000 would be saved and benefitted, the forum believed.

The Forum demanded that the centre must release the amount sanctioned before the election.

Ghonen Gogoi said that 4.6 km Geo- bags work

“In the last year, Hatighuli in Tinsukai dis-

trict alone has lost 900 meters of land and the area such as Guijan, Rangagora, Laina, Baghjan are in a constant threat of erosion.

“At Hatighulia we have collected funds from public and worked day and night to stop the erosion,’’ said Bhabas Uppyadhya, Secretary of FERSF. He said Brahmaputra Board has already worked to resist erosion in the area and spent Rs 100 crore but still they could not resist the erosion.

Child trampled to death by wild jumbos in Tinsukia Contd. from Page 1

Locals blamed forest officials for failing to check the depredation of wild elephants which has been going on in the area for the past 2 months. On December 26, a 50-year-old person was trampled to death by the

wild herd. The herd had since then destroyed several houses and granaries apart from rampaging vast swathes of paddy fields, bamboo and banana groves.

“We try to drive away the elephants by bursting firecrackers and beating drums but they return again. We

don’t have enough firecrackers, kerosene and charge lights which are necessary to ward off the elephants. The forest department has so far remained a mute spectator,” said Binod Pradhan, a farmer.

However, the wild pachyderms are believed to have sneaked out from the Dehing

Patkai Wildlife sanctuary.

Wildlife experts have attributed the growing instances of jumbo depredation on shrinking forest cover and encroachment on elephant corridors which have forced the pachyderms to move out from their ecological space and stray into places of human habitation. They use to

come out in the evening in search of food and return to the forest gain by daybreak.

A forest official said that atleast 300 elephants use the two elephant corridors, Golai and Bogapani located inside the Dehing Patkai Wildlife sanctuary to migrate from one end of the forest to another.

The Rly Pensioners of Greater Guwahati hold 10th Biennial General Meeting A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Feb 8 : The Rly Pensioners of Greater Guwahati areas covering Chayagaon, Azara,Dadara, Amingaon ,Lalganesh, Sundarbari have hold their 10th Biennial General Meeting at Railway Institute Central Pandu on 5thFebruary,2016 under the banner of Pandu Branch of N.F.Rly Pensioners Association. More than 300 pensioners and Family pensioners attended the meeting with great enthusiasm.

Shri D.K.Goswami. President,

NFRPA, inaugurated the meeting with an inspiring speech.

The meeting was presided over by Shri M.K.Panging,President,Pandu Branch , As a guest of honour.

Shri Sakti May Kanjilal, General Secretary, NFRPA delivered his speech on all the living issues confronting the pensioners and stated that pensioners are not beggar. Pension being the deferred wage they want their due share. He explained with example that 7th Central Pay Commission has

belied all the hope and expectations of pensioners. Minimum Pension suggested Rs. 9000 while the fitment benefit recommended 14.29% only when in all previous Pay Commissions this benefit was 40 %.

randum. The affiliate of All India Railwaymen Federation and National Federation of Railwaymen, Mazoor Union and Employees Union in N.F.Railway has taken strike ballot.

Except recommendation of parity of pension no other demands of Pensioners has been considered by the 7th Pay Commission.

If no positive development is not there on the improvement on various aspects of recommendation of 7thCPC regarding Pension related issues, it is decided that the pensioners will join the united movement of NJCA in general and Railway Trade Unions in particular.

Against the retrograde recommendation of 7th CPC, the NJCA and Bharat Pensioner Samaj have submitted Memo-

The N.F.Rly Pensioners are very much aggrieved for reduction of pension which was revised 7 to 8 years before and resultant excess recoveries for no fault of their own violating the honorable Supreme Court’s order that excess recovery cannot be made from pensioners and group C & D employees going to be retired within 1 or 2 years.

The meeting elected a new branch committee with Shri Hari Kalita as President and Shri Santosh Bhattacharjee as Secretary.

PAGE 5

REGION

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9

UALA formal 'Jungle raj returns in Bihar' is an Opposition conspiracy: Lalu Prasad 'disbanding' likely this week Patna, Feb9: The "return of Jungle Raj in Bihar" is a lie spread by the opposition parties in their attempt to defame the state, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad has said.

"Opposition parties are talking and spreading falsehood of return of `jungle raj` in Bihar as part of conspiracy to defame the state again," Lalu told reporters here on Sunday after his arrival from Delhi. Lalu also dismissed the demand made on Saturday

by Lok Janshakti Party

The formal surrender ceremony of the UALA militants may take place within a week.

Shillong, Feb 9: The formal surrender ceremony of the UALA militants, who had entered into official agreement with the government in December last, may take place within a week. A senior government official said that while the construction of housing units to rehabilitate the UALA cadres, numbering less than 70, is going on in full swing on the premises of Baljek Airport near Tura, the formal surrender ceremony is expected within a week.

As per the Agreed Text of Settlement signed between the State government and UALA on December 18 last year, the cadres will abide by the ground rules framed for the conduct while stay-

ing in the designated camp. As per the agreement, UALA will bring genuine cadres of the outfit at the designated camps along with weapons in their possessions and disband the organization.

The agreement said that UALA should declare the cadre strength with actual names, aliases, ranks in the organizations, year of recruitment and complete address.

The State government official said that though UALA 'commander-inchief' Singbirth Marak alias Norrok X Momin was not present during the signing of the agreement, he would join the peace process during the official level surrender ceremony.(Agencies)

Four GNLA workers, B'deshis held Shillong, Feb 9: The BSF and police have apprehended four over ground workers of GNLA at BetasingAmpati road in South West Garo Hills on Friday, a BSF report said on Sunday. As per the report, the troops first arrested three GNLA workers - Nikson Marak (29), Keni Ch Marak (24) and Wenstar M Marak (29) and recovered two motorcycles, three mobile phones and one demand letter of Rs 10 lakh addressed to one Momin Chos, a resident of Betasing.

Multagre and recovered one mobile phone with one Indian SIM from his possession. In another incident, BSF troops deployed at Bagli, South West Khasi Hills, after an ambush apprehended one Bangladeshi national Habib Miya (60) resident of Kolagoun, Sunamganj district of Bangladesh, while he was entering Bangladesh from India on Friday.

During the search, BSF recovered ten bottles of liquor, Rs 2,100, 6 packets of milk powder and other items from his possession.

Following leads provided by the arrested over ground workers, police later arrested another GNLA worker Senred Ch Marak (22) from his village

Besides, BSF troops also apprehended one more Bangladeshi national while infiltrating into Indian territory in Mahendraganj area on the same day. (Agencies)

Intense snowfall disrupts normal life in Shimla Shimla, Feb 9: The higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh, including capital Shimla, are reeling under intense cold after heavy snowfall in the region on Sunday evening.

Shimla, Kufri and several other towns in the

area were wrapped in a thick white blanket of snow while the mid and lower hills experienced moderate to heavy rain.

According to reports, the mercury has dipped by several degrees across the state after change in the weather.(Agencies)

The higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh, including capital Shimla

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad (LJP) leader Chirag Paswan that President`s Rule be imposed in Bihar in view of the deteriorat-

ing law and order situation under the government of the `Grand Alliance` of JD-U, RJD and

the Congress.

Rule of law prevails in Bihar and there is no place for violence and lawlessness, said Lalu whose two sons, Tejaswi Prasad and Tej Pratap, are ministers in the state government, the former also being the deputy chief minister Chirag, son of Union minister Ramvilas Paswan, had spoken in the context of the killing on Friday of his party leader Brijnathi Singh by some people here. Singh was a criminal-turned-politician, known once as the terror

of Raghopur area in Vaishali district.

"Brijnathji was shot dead within 10-15 km of the Chief Minister`s house.

He was shot dead only because he and his family fought against Lalu ji in the Vidhan Sabha polls. I would definitely want to ask the Chief

"Opposition parties are talking and spreading falsehood of return of `jungle raj` in Bihar as part of conspiracy to defame the state again,"

Tension rises in Manipur following attacks on Kukis Imphal, Feb 9: Manipur Police beefed up security measures on Sunday as Kuki organisations condemned the "unprovoked" gun attack on February 3 on Kukis in Molnom villagers near Pallel town along National Highway 2.

Several shots were fired at the terrified villagers in Molnom. One youth, Lunkhogin Haokip, sustained serious injuries, Kukis of the village said.

In a joint statement condemning the incident, the Kuki Chiefs' Association in Chandel district, the

Kuki People's Forum, the Thadou Students' Association, and the Kuki Students' Organisation said that some cadres of the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (IsakMuivah) had opened fire at the villagers.

The Kuki Reformation Forum also condemned what it described as the unprovoked firing. In a statement it said the incident reminded the people of the "ethnic cleansing" started by the NSCN-IM. Over the years of, more than 1,000 innocent men, women

and children have died in the armed clashes between the two tribes.

The joint statement said that the NSCN-IM cadres surrounded the Molnom village on February 3 night and opened fire at three youths who had gone to a mountain stream. It appealed to the central and state governments to bring about a resolution to such unprovoked firing.

It said that on August 22 last year the Aimol Ngairong village was attacked with bombs and

guns, which caused the death of one villager.

While a mass rally was organised on Saturday for the "integrity" of the state, the All Naga Students' Association Manipur (ANSAM) demanded an "alternative arrangement for the Nagas in Manipur".

The long standing demand of the Nagas in the state is that since they no longer want to live under the "communal government" led by Okram Ibobi Singha, there should be a separate arrangement for them.

ANSAM, which claims to represent the Naga tribal youth and students in Manipur, has cited three incidents in which 13 tribal youths were killed as instances of atrocities committed by the state.

Though police said at times they opened fire to control unruly mobs, the ANSAM says the "communal government" of Manipur had committed these "excesses" to intimidate those demanding their constitutional rights and restoration of law and order.

(Agencies)

Darjeeling CPI (M) slams state govt's ration policy in Hills Darjeeling, Feb 8: The CPI(M)'s Darjeeling unit today alleged the ruling Trinamool Congress government is discriminating against the people of Hills in its ration policy.

"Earlier each individual would get 13.2 Kgs of Rice, Sugar, Wheat and Atta (flour) in a month.

Now the government only gives 11 kg per person in which they give 6 Kgs of rice and 5 kgs of Atta. The TMC government has taken away Wheat and Sugar that we used to get," Hill CPI(M) leader Tara

Sundas said here.

"This government is anti-Hill, in the recent past they stuck out names of 25 per cent people each in Darjeeling and Kurseong from the ration eligibility roll, and today only 75 per cent of people in Darjeeling and Kurseong receive ration.In Kalimpong they cut the names of 45 per cent of eligible persons, which means only 55 per cent of people in Kalimpong region will get ration‌ This government has directly targetted and discriminated against the hill

be packed in pouches of 750 grams. And this government has started to do so in the plains.

But in the hills they send stuffs in sacks and it is not packaged. Due to which the food item get rotten. We demand that people in the hills should also be given ration in proper packages, the hill people are not refugees and we demand equality." he said.

The CPI(M)'s Darjeeling unit today alleged the ruling A district official disTrinamool Congress government is discriminating against the people of Hills in its ration policy counted the charge of CPI (M) and said there people and that is what said."According to Na- was no discrimination we are protesting tional Food Security against the Hills people. against," he Act all the ration should (Agencies)

CRS inspection by end of Feb: NFR Agartala, Feb. 8: The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) is contemplating to complete CRS inspection by last part of February to pave the way for the BG passenger train service from Agartala railway station, official sources confirmed here today.

The 109 KM newly converted BG railtrack is now 'almost' ready to be operational. Goods and ballast trains have been using the newly built BG tack from

Kumarghat to Agartala without any trouble. If everything falls in right place, the CRS inspection would be completed by February itself, which is a mandatory provision before running BG train on the newly built track. "We have already proposed to conduct CRS inspection by later part of February as the track is ready for operation", said Dy Chief Engineer, NFR BN Bhaskar.

When contacted the Dy

Chief Engineer said the 108 km rail track was converted into BG within three months and some finishing workswelding, signal and refreshing work would be done very shortly.

According to sources, the CRS inspection would be done in two sectionsBadarpurKumarghat and Kumarghat-Agartala in February. And probable dates for CRS inspection include February

Communal tension in Nagaland after couple shot dead Kiphire , Feb 8 : Communal tension broke out in Kiphire district of Nagaland on Sunday after a couple was shot dead by two unidentified assailants.Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure that prohibits unlawful assembly has been imposed in the district.According to police, the husband, a

government school teacher belonging to the Sangtam tribe was travelling to a village with his wife, a nurse belonging to the Tikhir tribe.Both tribes have an age-old rivalry over land issues.

"Both the deceased were posted in Kiphire.

They went to meet relatives in Shamator village when they were

shot dead by two unknown people on a motorbike," a police official told media.As per a preliminary report, the two attackers belonged to the Yimchunger tribe, which is also involved in land disputes with various other Naga tribes including Sangtam, Tikhir and Chang, police said.

(Agencies)

25/26/27. As per the schedule, the BG conversion work upto Udaipur is supposed to be completed by March 31. The NFR wants to open the line upto Udaipur at a time as BG conversion works have made good progress.

The state is unlikely get super-fast trains in the Railway Budget for 2016-17 FY to be tabled in the third week of February. However, there would be long-distance trains from Agartala rail-

way station. The state government has already demanded to allocate super-fast trains connecting big cities like Kolkata, Delhi and Chennai.

But here is no green signal of receiving super-fast train till the date. Union Minister of State for Railway Manoj Sinha welcomed the BG railhead at Agartala railway station on January 13 amidst cheers.

(Agencies)

Governor visits Neer Mahal Times News Agartala, Agartala,Feb. 8: Governor Tathagta Roy today visited Neer Mahal, the lone lake palace in the eastern India, official sources confirmed here today.

Addl DM DK Chakma welcomed the Governor at Sagar Mahal on his arrival. During his brief stay at Neer

Minister if this is not political rivalry, then what is?" Chirag was quoted as saying in a media report.

Lalu said the opposition is not ready to realise its rejection by the people in the elections and so is trying to paint Bihar in a poor light. (Agencies)

Mahal , the government took a boat ride on the lake. Roy also visited splendid refurbished structure of the Neer Mahal. Later, the Governor laid stress on resumption of light and sound show at the wonderful structure. Of late, Neer Mahal had gone retrofitting works. (Agencies)

Bomb hoax in Tura Tura, Feb 9: Tura police threw a security cordon on the main road leading from the police station to the market after the discovery of a canister with wires protruding out and abandoned outside a police quarter on Sunday morning. The bomb squad was pressed into service to inspect the strange device which later turned out to be harmless.

Following the discovery of the device by a police officer leaving home for duty at around 9 AM, the bomb squad took over the scene and after placing it inside an explosion preventive carriage took it to the 2nd MLP battalion in Goeragre, 12 kms away, where a close examination revealed it to be a beverage canister sealed with black tape and wires to make an improvised music speaker that apparently failed to work compelling the owner to abandon it.

(Agencies)

Festivals unite people in Manipur Manipur, Feb 8 : Vibrant folk dances performed by young artists of Zeliangrong tribe in Manipur reflect joy and happiness. Celebrated every year, "Gaan Ngai" festival brings together all Naga tribes and marks the occasion with peace and unity, "Gaan ngai" is a post harvest thanks giving festival celebrated with great enthusiasm. It is celebrated in different parts of the Northeast by singing, dancing, playing games and merry making. In Imphal, the Meitei community came together to celebrate Imoinu Iratpa Day, the traditional worship of the Goddess of wealth, Ema Imoinu, by making offerings to the deity.

The streets of Greater Imphal and valley districts were brightly decorated with colorful lights and people came out in large numbers to mark the festival. As part of the celebration, various cultural items were also showcased. Celebrations of festivals play an important role in promoting the cultural legacy of the indigenous communities besides fostering a spirit of unity among the people. (Agencies)

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9

PAGE 6

Headley's deposition reveals close nexus between ISI, LeT: Ujjwal Nikam Mumbai, Feb. 8: Special public prosecutor in the 26/11 case, Ujjwal Nikam, on Monday said that David Coleman Headley's deposition has revealed that there is a close nexus between the Inter-Services Intelligence( ISI) and the Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT), adding that it is for the Government of India to take a call on the evidence provided by Headley.

"It is clearly seen that there is a close nexus between the ISI and the LeT, as per revelations made by Headley in his deposition. He also revealed that prior to the Mumbai terror attack, the LeT had made two unsuccessful attacks in September and October 2008. Those attacks were unsuccessful on the count of accident to the attackers," Nikam told reporters here.

"This is a very crucial case. It is for the Government of India to take call on the evidence of Headley. I am absolutely satisfied as to what David Headley has revealed in today's deposition. I may quiz Headley on certain aspects, which were never asked by the

FBI," he added.

Nikam further stated that Headley changed his name from Dawood Gilani to David Coleman Headley in America after joining the LeT in order to hide his identity from the Indian law enforcing agency. "I did ask him as to when you applied for visa to the Indian Consulate of Chicago, did you disclose the true information in the visa application. He said that I did not disclose the two information, except my date of birth and nationality. We asked him as to what prompted you to give false information, he said that in order to suppress my real purpose of visit I did not disclose,' he said.

Nikam added that Headley in his deposition has revealed that he had joined the LeT militant organisation to take training in handling sophisticated weapons like AK47 rifle. "I asked him what your intention of LeT was. He said that LeT's intention to liberate Kashmir from India and therefore to commit various terrorist activities in Pakistan. I asked him whether he knows Major Iqbal. He said he(Major Iqbal) is an ISI

AIMIM-Congress clash: Owaisi granted bail

Special public prosecutor in the 26/11 case, Ujjwal Nikam

guy," Nikam said.

"He further said that in one of the occasion, he was apprehended by the Pakistan Police on the ground that he being a foreigner and he possessed certain Indian images. Later on, he was discharged with the intervention of Ali. Ali had introduced him with Major Iqbal. Now it has come under record that Ali and Iqbal are ISI guys. They allowed him to be free from that case," he added.

"He said Hafiz Saeed and Jakiurm Rehman Lakhvi taught him. They said that they should do the Jihad. I specifically ask him the meaning of 'Jihad'. He explained to fight against the Indian

army." Nikam further stated that Headley's revelation pointed out that there were two failed attempts to carry out 26/11 sort of terror strikes before the attack in Mumbai.

He had also visited Mumbai once after the terror attack. There were seven instances when he visited Mumbai between 2003 to 2008 to carry out planning for the attack.

"He said that the first group was of ten attackers. The same group had tried for the second attack. The same group was successful in attacking Mumbai," he said.

Headley is currently serving 35 years in an American prison after being convicted of being

involved in the planning and execution of the 26/ 11 Mumbai terror attacks in 2008, in which 166 persons were killed and 300 injured. The deposition of David Coleman Headley would continue at a special Mumbai court from 7 a.m. tomorrow.

The deposition of Headley began before a special Mumbai court today where he revealed the sequence of events and planning behind the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. In his revelation today, Headley said that two attempts were made prior to the final attack on November 26, 2008.

According to Headley, the first attempt was made in September 2008, which failed because the boat hit some rocks in the ocean.

The people on board were saved as they were wearing life jackets. However,

"David Coleman Headley's deposition has revealed that there is a close nexus between the InterServices Intelligence( ISI) and the Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT), adding that it is for the Government of India to take a call on the evidence provided

by Headley"

MCD workers strike enters 13th day; Delhi suffers as garbage mounts on roads

Hyderabad, Feb. 8: All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) chief Asaduddin Owaisi was on Monday granted bail in a case of an alleged attack on Congress workers by the AIMIM workers during the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) elections.

Earlier today, he had surrendered before Hyderabad Deputy Commissioner of Police (South Zone) V. Satyanarayana over the alleged attack. Owaisi has refuted all allegations, and instead, blamed the Congress for

fuelling the confrontation.

The incident occurred when Congress leaders were about to leave the Mir Chowk police station after the release of a Congress candidate on bail.

Several AIMIM workers led by Owaisi arrived at the police station and a heated argument led to the incident.

Several Congress leaders, including Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee ( TPCC) chief Uttam Kumar Reddy and Shabbir Ali, sustained minor injuries in the scuffle. (ANI)

'Children losing interest in Odia'

Children are not interested to learn or read Odia

Bhubaneswar, Feb 9: Odia language is not the livelihood-earning language for people of the state and for this reason our children are not interested to learn or read Odia.

If this situation continues, the language will meet its end in the next 50 years, said speakers at a symposium organised by the Bhasha Suraksha Sammilani here. So there is a need to discuss on the implementation of the Orissa Language Act, 1954 in the next Assembly session, demanded the

speakers.Discussing on the topic 'the status of the Orissa Language Act, 1954 and steps for its implementation' ruling BJD MP Baisnaba Parida said as Odia language is not being used as the official language, Odia students are not interested to read Odia.

Although the government has declared to implement the act, no concrete step has been taken yet.So,Odias should pressure on the government for implementation of the act. Representatives from all walks of life were present in the discussion.

Former Speaker Sarat Kar, Sanjib Patnaik, former Chief Secretary Sahadev Sahoo and advocate Dharanidhar Nayak had participated in the discussions. (Agencies)

"We should get all our dues from 2003. The temporary workers should be made permanent. The Delhi Government, had on October 23, 2015 said that the pending arrears would be cleared. But, it hasn't been cleared even now.

The government is mis-

The sanitation workers strike of Municipal Corporations of Delhi (MCD) entered 13th day on Monday

leading us and somewhere we are becoming the victims of politics," said one of the protestors.

"If any Talibani diktat is announced or if even a single employee of the

MCD is removed, then we would make this protest very aggressive and the government would then have to pay its price," he added.

On Saturday, Municipal

erational only if society accepts the need for women's safety.

"This will become a reality only if relation between government and society is good," she said.

Irani was speaking at the valedictory function of the 'Sthree Swabhimaan Yatra', organised by Mathrusamithy, the women's wing of Kerala Kshetra Samrakashan Samithi (Temple Protection Committee) here.

Pointing out that the NDA government has initiated many women's welfare schemes with focus on their safety, she said the initiative under 'Mudra' scheme to extend bank loans up to Rs.10 lakh to them without security would benefit women and also empower them.

Similarly, the Jan Dhan yojana for women would also ensure their upliftment, she said.

Irani also said government wanted to expand the Sthree Swabhimaan Yatra to other parts of the country. The yatra, led by Mathrusanithy State President Prof V T Rama began at Kasargod on January 24 and culminated here on Monday. Former BJP state president V Muraleedharan was among those present on the occasion.

(Agencies)

Omar has become 'restless' courtesy lust for power: BJP

BJP leader Siddharth Nath Singh New Delhi, Feb. 8: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday criticised former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah for

New Delhi, Feb. 8: Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi will commence a two-day visit of Kerala from tomorrow.

He will visit Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi.

During the visit, he is expected to review the party's strategy ahead of the upcoming state assembly polls. According to reports, Gandhi will hold talks with the party leaders and workers and chalk out the strategy to establish the grand old party's presence in Kerala which has voted out incumbent governments since 1982.

However, the Congress has a herculean task in the state with the simmering rage against the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF), after

Corporation Teachers Association called off their indefinite strike after they received their pending salaries. Along with the teachers, MCD doctors and para-medical Burdwan, Feb. 8: Six staff have also ended suspects were arrested on their strike.

Monday in the Jamalpur area of West Bengal's Earlier, Lieutenant Gov- BurdwanDistrict and a ernor Najeeb Jung had car with a Ministry of also offered additional Defence ( MoD) license loan of Rs. 300 crore to plate in which they were East and North corpora- travelling was imtions to pay the salary of pounded. protesting workers. The The Swift Dzire car also Delhi Government had had a Ordinance Factory also released Rs.693 Board sticker. The percrores to the corporations sons detained have been in this regard but the pro- identified as Sakir testers are demanding Ahmed, Salim Akhtar, permanent solution of Sheikh Irfan, Sheikh their salaries issue. (ANI) Ansaruddin, Abdul

Irani stresses good society-govt ties for women's safety Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 9: The safety of women can be a reality only if society accepts the need to have it and works together with the government, Union Human Resource Develoment Minister Smriti Irani said here on Sunday.

She said government can bring forward a legislation to end female feticide and harassement against women, but all these would become op-

Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi the names of its top leaders, including Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, emerged in the solar scam.

The upcoming elections in the five states are crucial for the Congress as it will be interesting to note whether the grand old party continues its political stronghold in Kerala and Assam. The Congress vice-president's visit to Kerala comes days after Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) chief Amit Shah sounded the poll bugle in the state, urging the workers to bring in as many Hindu groups as possible to the party fold. The BJP, which has been critical of the UDF regime, is expected to contest 80 out of 140 seats leaving the rest for its alliance partners. (ANI)

Car with MoD plate impounded in Burdwan, six arrested

New Delhi, Feb. 8: The sanitation workers strike of Municipal Corporations of Delhi (MCD) entered 13th day on Monday over the nonpayment of salary and allowances. With garbage piling up in different areas, the strike is creating hardship to the people.

AIMIM chief Asaduddin Ow aisi was on Monday granted bail

the weapons and explosives were lost. He said that the second attempt was made after a month in October 2008.

Senior lawyer Mahesh Jethmalani told the media that Headley has told the special court that he acted on the advice of Jamaat-ud-Dawah (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed. Headley, one of the main conspirators in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, deposed as a witness in the case and admitted that he had come to the city with a false identity at the behest of his colleague and handler Sajid Mir, a Lashkar-e-Taiba ( LeT) operative. He said he had visited Mumbai seven times prior to the attacks on November 26, 2008. He even visited Delhi in March 2009 after the attacks. (ANI)

Rahul to begin two-day visit to Kerala tomorrow

suggesting the People's Democratic Party (PDP) to snap ties with them and said that the National Conference (NC) leader had become restless as he

can't stay away from power.

"Why is Omar Abdullah in such a hurry? Why cannot he be in peace? He has become restless after the CM's post was taken away from him. He can't stay away from power that is why his restlessness is increasing," BJP leader Siddharth Nath Singh told.

Omar had asked PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti to be bold enough to break alliance with the BJP if she is not ready to form the new government in the

state. The BJP had last week hinted that they were in favour of continuing the alliance with the PDP. The stalemate over government formation in the state is continuing for the past four weeks after the demise of PDP patron and former chief minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. Jammu and Kashmir Governor N.N. Vohra had last week asked both the BJP and PDP to clear their stand on the government formation. (ANI)

Akhtar and Sheikh Shahrukh.

Police said that they failed to provide any identification to support their claim that they were defence ministry employees, nor did they have valid vehicle documents. The suspects are being interrogated by the police, but so far, no information has been gleaned. They are in police custody and would be produced in a lower court later in the day.

(ANI)

Two attempts were made prior to 26/11: Headley Mumbai, Feb. 8: David Coleman Headley, who deposed before a special Mumbai court on Monday, in a shocking revelation stated that two attempts were made prior to the final attack on November 26, 2008.

According to Headley, the first attempt was made in September 2008, which failed because the boat hit some rocks in the ocean.

The people on board were saved as they were wearing life jackets. However, the weapons and explosives were lost.

He said that the second attempt was made after a month in October 2008.

"Those involved in first attempt were involved in

David Coleman Headley

this as well, but the attack failed," he said.

Headley further said that it was in the third and final attempt that the attack was successful on November 26, 2008. Headley is presently revealing the sequence of events and planning behind the 26/11 terror attacks before a special Mumbai court. (ANI)

Noted Urdu poet Nida Fazli no more Mumbai, Feb. 8: Noted Urdu poetNida Fazli breathed his last in Mumbai on Monday due to heart failure. He was 76 years old. He became known among the readers and ghazal singers for his elegant presentation and exclusive use of colloquial language forghazals, dohaas and nazms, while avoiding ornate Persian

imagery and compound words to simplify his poetry.

Some of his famous film songs include Aa bhi jaa (Sur), Tu is tarah se meri zindagi mein (Aap To Aise Na The) and Hosh waalon ko khabar Kya (Sarfarosh).

He wrote columns for BBC Hindi website on various contemporary issues and literature. (ANI)

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9

PAGE 7

NEIGHBOURS

Myanmar's union parliament sets March 17 for presidential run Naypyitaw , Feb. 8 : Myanmar's union parliament today announced March 17 as the date for three groups of the union parliament representatives to nominate their respective candidates for presidential run.The three candidates are to be nominated respectively from the group of elected house of representatives (Lower House), the group of elected house of nationalities (Upper House) and the group from militaryn o m i n a t e d representatives.The candidate who wins the most number of votes will be the president, while the

Burundi grenade attack kills four, including boy

remaining two be vice presidents.The nomination list will be forwarded to the chairman of the union parliament.

The newly-elected union parliament started its first session in Nay Pyi Taw on Monday morning, 10 days after the expiry of the previous term of the parliament.The summon for the first session of the new union parliament came nearly three months after the end of the general election on Nov. 8, 2015, in which the National League for Democracy (NLD), led by Aung San Suu Kyi, won the ab-

Presidential vote set for March 17 solute majority of the parl i a m e n t a r y seats.Attending the first union parliament session, chaired by U Mann Win Khaing Than of the National League for Democ-

The African Union is trying to persuade the president to agree to the deployment of AU peacekeepers.He is opposed to the plan, saying this would amount to an invasion.Bujumbura has recently witnessed a string of deadly grenade attacks.

The government and opposition groups have accused each other of carrying out the attacks.Last month, human rights group Amnesty International published satellite images it said were believed to be five mass graves near Burundi's capital, where security forces were accused of killing scores of people in December.

A fact-finding mission by the AU has reported arbitrary killings, torture and the "closure of some civil society organisations and the media". (Agencies)

Lanka's UNP Working Committee to be reorganized Colombo, Feb.8: Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe has informed that the working committee of the United National Party (UNP) and its headquarters in Sirikotha will be reorganized.

Speaking at a meeting of UNP members in Kuliyapitiya, Mr. Wickremesinghe said some members should work full time to promote the party, reported Lanka Page website. The party won't last if every member of it gets involved with the Government, he said.Wickremesinghe said a new programme will be carried out to promote the party in the village level.He said the approval of the working committee will be sought for all the new moves. (Agencies)

Myanmar's union parliament today announced March 17 as the date for three groups of the union parliament representatives to nominate their respective candidates for presidential run

Nepal to host regional conference to protect migrants' rights Mani Bhurtel said the date of the meet would be decided by a Cabinet meeting. He said the ministry proposes holding the conference by the end of March.

Kathmandu,Feb 8, 2016- Four people have been killed in Burundi in a grenade attack on a bar in the capital Bujumbura, officials say.Among the victims was a child selling boiled eggs. Ten other people were injured in Saturday's attack.

Unknown attackers also threw grenades at an army patrol and at police in Bujumbura, hurting several people Since April, more than 400 people have died in clashes triggered by President Pierre Nkurunziza's bid for a third term. He won a disputed poll in July.

racy (NLD) who is also speaker of the House of Nationalities (Upper House), were a total of 648 members of the Union Parliament.Meanwhile, the new parliaments have

already started their first sessions with the House of Representatives (Lower House), in which U Win Myint of the NLD was elected as speaker of the House of Representatives and U Ti Khun Myat of the Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) as deputy speaker of the House, while U Mann Win Khaing Than of the National League for Democracy (NLD) as speaker of the House of Nationalities (Upper House) and U Aye Tha Aung of the Arakan National Party (ANP) as deputy speaker of the House. (Agencies)

Nepal to host regional conference to protect migrants' right

Kathmandu, Feb 8: The government is planning to organise a South Asian ministerial-level conference in Kathmandu to explore possible areas of cooperation to ensure protection and promotion of the rights of migrant labourers of the region.

South Asia is home to 36

million migrant workers, including an estimated four million Nepalis, who work mostly in the Gulf and Malaysia.The Ministry of Labour and Employment, the organiser, has said that the conference would be attended by labour ministers from South Asia. Ministry Spokesperson Govinda

"The conference will seek possible areas of collaboration among the South Asian nations in the protection and promotion of the rights of labourers and migrant workers as agreed among the heads of states during the last Saarc summit," said Bhurtel.During the 18th summit of the regional grouping held in Kathmandu in November last year, heads of governments had agreed to work for protection and promotion of the rights of workers both in the region and beyond.In a 36-point joint declaration issued before the conclusion of the summit, Saarc leaders had agreed "to collaborate and cooperate on safe, orderly and responsible management of labour migration from South Asia to ensure safety,

security and wellbeing of their migrant workers in the destination countries outside the region".

Labour Ministry officials said the conference would work on a regional framework for collective bargaining to press the labour receiving countries to end exploitation and abuse of the migrant workers.

Such a regional framework could make a significant difference as South Asia is the largest supplier of migrant workers to the Persian Gulf and Malaysia. However, rights groups say South Asians are receiving far worse treatment than nationals from the South East Asian countries in terms of pay and facilities.Experts think that Saarc countries should work together for ensuring safety, security and rights of migrant workers, while jointly combating human trafficking and other anomalies surrounding the foreign employment industry."The conference

will also seek broader cooperation in ensuring safety, security and rights of migrant workers working within South Asia," said a senior official at the Department of Foreign Employment.South Asian governments' failure to regulate inter-regional migration has forced millions of people to face abuse and exploitation within the region. Though exact data are hard to come by, estimates show nearly 2 million Nepalis migrate seasonally to India for job. An equal number of Indians and thousands of Bangladeshis are working in Nepal.

The conference would also seek areas of cooperation to combat human trafficking using the member countries as transit. Human traffickers and smugglers are trafficking thousands of Nepalis including women using India, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka as transit promising better jobs and lucrative pays. (Agencies)

Sri Lanka's ex-regime slams UN rights chief's 'joke' visit amid war crimes probe Colombo, Feb 8: Expresident Mahinda Rajapakse's brother denounced on Monday (Feb 8) the United Nations human rights chief's visit to Sri Lanka as a "big joke", as the former regime stepped up opposition to a UNbacked war-crimes probe.

Former president Rajapakse and his brother, ex-defence secretary Gotabhaya Rajapakse, have signed a petition against the probe into allegations of thousands of civilian deaths during the final months of Sri Lanka's separatist war.Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein arrived on Saturday (Feb 6) for a four-day visit to gauge the island's progress in investigating war-time

atrocities, before he delivers an assessment to the UN Human Rights Council in March.Gotabhaya Rajapakse accused authorities of arranging for Zeid to meet only sympathisers of Tamil rebels, who were crushed by government troops in 2009 following a 37-year war for a separate homeland for ethnic Tamils.

"He can't come here for a day and expect to understand the situation.

He is only meeting one side," Gotabhaya, who was defence secretary during the war's finale, told reporters in Colombo. "It is a big joke."Flanked by the expresident, Gotabhaya repeated the former regime's longstanding

gal process to deal with rebel detainees.

Gotabhaya Rajapakse (centre) signs a petition against a UN-mandated investigation against war crimes during the Tamil separatist war as his brother and former president, Mahinda Rajapaks

position that no war crimes were committed by government troops in the final push.After defeating Rajapakse at presidential elections a year ago, his successor Maithripala Sirisena agreed to investigate allegations troops killed up to 40,000 Tamil civilians in the final

months.Zeid on Sunday (Feb 7) visited the former war zones of Jaffna and Trincomalee in the island's north and northeast.He told local Tamil leaders on the Jaffna peninsula, which saw some of the worst fighting, that there should not be a general amnesty, but a swift le-

"As a general principle it is not acceptable to grant amnesties to those convicted of the most serious crimes war crimes or crimes against humanity," a spokesman for the rights c h i e f t o l d media.But the UN would welcome a release of those against whom there was insufficient evidence.More than 200 suspected Tamil separatists remain in prison, many without charge.Tamil political and civil society groups have long demanded their unconditional release, though the government has refused a blanket a m n e s t y.

(Agencies)

UAE supports Indo-Pak efforts to resume dialogue New Delhi, Feb 8 : The United Arab Emirates, a close ally of Pakistan, today welcomed Indo-Pak efforts to resume talks process and said it will try its "best" to ensure that they succeed.UAE Ambassador Ahmed Al Banna said his country "supports" the latest initiatives by the two coun-

tries including Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Lahore outreach and the meeting of the National Security Advisers of India and Pakistan in Bangkok.

The remarks by UAE envoy came days ahead of visit of Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Com-

mander of UAE armed forces Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayad Al Nahyan here. Al Nahyan arrives here on Wednesday on a three-day visit."I am sure that there have been positive signs between the two countries...the meeting that took place between India and Pakistan in Thailand, trying

to open a new path of relationship. We support that and we will try our best to make sure that it succeeds," the envoy told reporters replying to a question.Foreign Secretary S Jaishankar was scheduled to travel to Islamabad to hold talks with his Pakistani counterpart Aizaz Ahmad

Chaudhary on January 15 but both the countries announced deferment of the talks with "mutual consent" in the wake of the Pathankot attack.NSAs of India and Pakistan had met in Bangkok on December 6 last year and agreed to take forward the engagement. (Agencies)

Nur Hossain, 3 ex-RAB officials indicted for 7murder

Nur Hossain, 3 ex-RAB officials indicted for 7-murder

Dhaka, Feb 8:A Narayanganj court has framed charges against 35 people, including the prime accused Nur Hossain and 3 ex-RAB officials, in two cases filed over the sensational s e v e n murder.Narayanganj District and Sessions Judge Enayet Hossain fixed February 25 to begin the trial in presence of 23 accused on Monday afternoon.A total of 12 accused are on the run in the cases.Public Prosecutor Advocate Wazed Ali Khokon told the Dhaka Tribune that the counsels of the accused filed petitions seeking their acquittal.However, the court rejected the petitions and indicted the 35 accused.

The 35 accused are Nur Hossain, former RAB officials Lt Col (retd) Tarek Sayed Mohammad, MM Rana, Major Arif Hossain, SI Purnendu Bala, ASI Bazlur Rahman and Abul Kalam Azad, Habildar Emdadul Haque and Nasir Uddin, Constable Shihab Uddin and Babul Hasan, Arif Hossain, Lance Naik Hira Mia, Belal Hossain, Lance Corporal Ruhul Amin, soldier Abu

Toiyob, Nuruzzaman Nur, Nur Hossain's aide Mortuza Zaman Churchill, Ali Mohammad, Mizanur Rahman Dipu, Raham Ali, Abul Bashar, Selim, Shahjahan and Sanaullah Sana, Jamal Uddin, RAB Corporal Latifur Rahman, soldier Mohiuddin Munshi and Al Amin Sharif, Abdul Ali and Tajul Islam, Sergeant Enamul Kabir, ASI Kamal Hossain and constable Habibur Rahman.

On April 27, 2014, Narayanganj City Corporation panel mayor Nazrul Islam and six others were abducted. Later, their bodies were recovered from Shitalaykha river on April 30.

Nazrul's wife filed an abduction case against Nur Hossain and several others on April 28.On June 15, 2014, the West Bengal police arrested Nur with some of his accomplices from Kolkata. He had been in Indian custody since then.He was handed over to BGB 26 Battalion Deputy Commander Maj Liakat Ali on November 12 last year.

Later, Nur Hossain was shown arrested in 11 cases including the seven-murder case.

(Agencies)

Chinese visit temples, fairs to ring in Year of the Monkey Beijing,Feb 8: Chinese flocked to temples and fairs to pray for good health and fortune on Monday, the first day of the Lunar New Year.In Beijing, hundreds of thousands of people visited traditional fairs held in parks, as well as Buddhist and Taoist temples offering singing and dance performances and open-air markets selling handicrafts.Monday marks the first day of the Year of the Monkey - the ninth animal on the Chinese zodiac calendar.

The weeklong holiday, known as the Spring Festival in China, is focused on family reunion and is a time when students and migrant workers return to their hometowns. It is the country's most important

holiday, equivalent to Christmas for many in the West.Travel agent Meng Su was lining up to burn incense at the Tibetan Buddhist Lama Temple in central Beijing, which is regarded as a popular tradition that brings good luck to those praying."Chinese people revere the power of nature and believe in gods, so we hope to express our blessings and that the gods can hear us," said Meng, 39. "It's also a way for us to find some comfort."Another Beijing resident, Yan Xiaying, 29, said her mother had a clear target as the pair visited the temple."I guess my mother hopes that I get married soon," Yan said, with her mother agreeing.

(Agencies)

Pakistan to host meeting of D-8 summit on Feb.17 Islamabad,Feb 8: The Pakistani capital, Islamabad, will host a meeting of trade ministers of the Group of Eight Developing Islamic Countries, D-8, on Feb.17.

The Commerce Minister of Pakistan, Khurram Dastgir Khan, will chair the session, which will include the trade ministers of Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Iran, Turkey, Malaysia, Nige-

ria and Pakistan.

According to an official statement, the ministers will discuss key trade issues, particularly the preferential trade agreement, and work to implement it in order to strengthen economic and social relations between the Group of Eight Developing Islamic Countries, consider tariff reductions and dispute settlement mechanisms.

(Agencies)

The Pakistani capital, Islamabad, will host a meeting of trade ministers of the Group of Eight Developing Islamic Countries, D-8, on Feb.17

PAGE 8

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9

What Happened to ISIS's Afghanistan-Pakistan Province?

Suicide…a mental disorder Need to end this at the earliest Every 40 seconds a life is lost through suicide worldwide as per WHO data. In India according to National Crime Records Bureau 110,417 people committed suicide in the year 2002, which is 1.8% more than compared to 2001., i.e; a suicide is committed every five minutes.

Seven times that number attempt to take their lives and as for those who feel desperate and unable to cope, the number is mind boggling. More Source: livemint suicides occur between 18 and 45 - in other words in the most productive age group of our society. The average global suicide rate is 14.5 deaths per 100,000 people, with suicide being the 4th leading cause of death in the 15-19 age group.

Suicide estimates suggest fatalities worldwide could rise to 1.5 million by 2020. Suicide is a largely preventable public health problem, causing almost half of all violent deaths as well as economic costs in the billions of dollars, says the WHO. Depression among the youth has increased from 2% to 12% in the last five years. Globally 3 out of every 5 visits to the doctor are for stress related problems. 76% people under stress say they have sleeping disorders and 58% suffer headaches. Laughing helps ease stress. And laughing 100 times equals 10 minutes of working out on a rowing machine or 15 minutes of cycling. 85% of people under stress tend to have strained relations with family and friends. 70% of people under stress say they have become short-tempered. A NIMHANS study says 36 % techies in Bangalore show signs of psychiatric disorder. Globally 1 out of every 10 students suffer significant distress. Over 50% of lost workdays across the world are due to stress, says an ILO study. 16000 students in India committed suicide between 2004 and 2008.

A study published in the British medical journal The Lancet indicates that the suicide rate in the 15-19 group living around Vellore in Tamil Nadu, India, was 148 per 100,000 for women, and 58 per 100,000 for men.

What stood out in the data was that not only were the rates extremely high, but that rates for young women were almost three times higher than rates for young men. This is the opposite of global rates, in which men are three times higher than those for women.

Suicide deaths accounted for between 50 to 75 percent of all deaths in young women in the 15-19 age group. The two most common methods for females were hanging and poisoning by insecticide. The third most common method for females was one that is not seen frequently outside of India, and that is of selfimmolation, or burning oneself to death in a fire. This method is common for females but rare for men. Contributing factors for the high levels of suicides for young females includes untreated mental illness, domestic violence, and conflicts over dowries.

Clearly, this disturbing data points to an urgent need for suicide prevention programs, better assessment and treatment of mental disorders, and better treatment of women in India. Each year, between 30 and 40 people per 100,000 Indians aged between 15 and 29 kill themselves. This accounts for about a third of all suicides in the country. Suicide in real is actually a mental disorder which often develops out of depression.

Cancer Cases 600 cases gets registered in Nagaland every year The World Cancer Day takes place every year on 4 February and is considered the single initiative under which the world can unite to raise the profile of cancer in a positive and inspiring way. In India, the North East region is said to have the highest prevalence of 16 forms of cancer in both male and female. Nagaland ranks 9 in the list of male cancer patients in India and 23 in cancer among women. However the state is ranked 1 in the case of colon cancer. Nagaland has registered a total of 3,338 cancer cases in between 2009 and 2014, with an average 600 new cases being registered every year. The year wise registration of cancer cases in Nagaland were 2009 - 371, 2010 - 534, 2011 - 505, 2012 - 662, 2013 - 635 and 2014 - 641.

Out of the total 3,348 cases, 2,034 were male and 1,314 were female patients, she said. Nagaland and Manipur has high rate of throat cancer due to smoked meat and salted fish consumption and also firewood burning at homes.

Nasopharynx was the leading site of cancer in Naga men with 19.27 per cent followed by stomach cancer at 17.43 per cent and Oesophagus at 16.06 per cent, while among women the leading cancer site was cervix at 19.09 per cent followed by stomach at 13.64 per cent and breast cancer at 11.82 per cent. Also there are 25 million cancer cases globally and India has about 2.5 million cases.

Also there is a need to raise awareness about the disease, specially among the youth and rural masses. Also it requires for the people to render care and support to cancer patients, while stating it was the responsibility of the society to positively deal with such patients.

A year after its founding, the Islamic State's Khurasan province remains a notional entity. front the terror group. The tional. Yet other officials emergence of ISIS- quoted later describe the State's Khurasan province Khurasan came amid an network as connected to al(ISIS-Khurasan), which in- overall decline in jihadist Qaeda, though the group cludes Afghanistan and violence in Pakistan, pro- did not claim responsibilPakistan, remains a no- pelled by a more forceful ity for the attack. It may be tional entity a year after its and comprehensive that they were self-directed establishment. It consists counterinsurgency and and either operate in a gray mainly of peripheral Af- counterterrorism campaign zone between al-Qaeda and ghan and Pakistani Taliban that began at the end of ISIS, or have shifted alledefectors who have fused 2013. As a result, Pakistan giance from the former to with the Islamic Movement has seen a precipitous drop the later. of Uzbekistan (IMU) and in terrorist violence. CivilIf ISIS is to make an imare clustered in ian deaths due pact in Pakistan, the path remote portions Arif Rafiq to terrorism fell may be through low-cost, of northeastern from a virtual high-impact urban terrorAfghanistan borall-time high of 3001 in 2013 ism (e.g., mass shootings), dering Pakistan. to 1781 in 2014 and 940 in rather than a grueling inWhile ISIS-Khurasan 2015 - roughly a 70 percent surgency focused on conhas engaged in some high- decline from its peak and trol of remote terrain. Omiprofile attacks over the past the lowest number since nously, ISIS has been atyear, it has lost a strategic 2006. tracting middle-class, eduwindow of opportunity to Still, ISIS-Khurasan ap- cated, urban Pakistanis - alabsorb local jihadist net- pears to be in the midst of beit in small numbers. works amid the fractious developing a network in urSaad Aziz, the main perleadership transition fol- ban Pakistan, as attacks at- petrator of the mass shootlowing the announcement tributed to the group as ing of Ismaili Shias, was a of the death of Afghan well as numerous arrests of graduate of one of Taliban founder Mullah alleged members indicate. Pakistan's top business Muhammad Omar.

What is unclear whether schools. Adil Masood The loss of this oppor- this embryotic network is Butt, the alleged funder of tunity is due to ISIS- the byproduct of active re- the attack was a former Khurasan's ideological in- cruitment by figures con- member of Islamist group flexibility as well as efforts nected to the ISIS core Tanzeem-i Islami who studby a loose "consortium" - leadership in Syria or are ied at Indiana University, the U.S., Afghan, and Paki- these militants are moving and had been tied to Pakistani governments, and the Afghan Taliban, al-Qaeda, The U.S. drone campaign in AfPakistani Taliban, and ghanistan is perhaps more relentless Lashkar-e Taiba - to obin targeting ISIS-Khurasan operastruct its rise.

Achievements tives than the Afghan Taliban. The Presently, ISIS-Khurasan campaign seems to have stunted is concentrated in portions ISIS's growth, but with little reliable of Afghanistan's remote, but strategically located on-the-ground reporting, its full Nangarhar province, effects are unclear. U.S. drone strikes whose capital, Jalalabad, in ISIS-controlled areas of Afghanilies along the most direct route between Peshawar, stan tend to produce high casualty Pakistan and Kabul, Afcounts. And that could mean that ghanistan. The Peshawareither ISIS-Khurasan insurgents are Jalalabad-Kabul road was a critical supply route for being killed in large clusters or sigthe U.S.-led coalition in Afnificant numbers of civilians are ghanistan and a major artery for landlocked dying along with the militants.

Afghanistan's trade with the world. toward ISIS on their own. stani al-Qaeda operatives, In January, ISISISIS-Khurasan has yet to such as Akmal Waheed.

Khurasan demonstrated an show that it can pull off atPakistani security forces ability to extend beyond tacks in Pakistan with the have arrested dozens of susNangarhar's more remote scale, regularity, and so- pected ISIS members and areas and hit Jalalabad, the phistication of competing sympathizers elsewhere in province's major urban militant groups. Last the country, including center. ISIS-Khurasan month, it took responsibil- former members of Jamaatclaimed responsibility for a ity for a grenade attack on ud-Dawa (JuD), which is January 13, 2016 attack on ARY News, a private Paki- seen as a front group for the Pakistani consulate in stani news channel that Lashkar-e Taiba (LeT). And Jalalabad. Days later, a sui- has taken a heavily pro- a small number of Pakistanis, cide bomber struck the army stance in recent years including women, have home of a local anti-ISIS- (mainly in respect to ten- gone to Syria to support Khurasan tribal leader in sions with the civilian lead- ISIS. Jalalabad, killing over a ership).

What these arrests mean dozen people. An Afghan The deadliest operation remains unclear. More likely, Taliban spokesman said attributed to ISIS- they reflect the vigilance of that his group was not in- Khurasan was a mass Pakistan's crackdown on an volved in the blast, which shooting in Karachi target- embryonic network rather makes ISIS-Khurasan a ing a bus carrying mem- than ISIS's rising tide in the likelier suspect. bers of the Ismaili Shia country.

ISIS-Khurasan aims to Muslim community. All toBeyond Afghanistan and consolidate and expand its gether, 46 people were Pakistan, ISIS has claimed presence in Nangarhar and killed in the attack on May responsibility for a string of move into neighboring 13, 2015. Hafiz Saeed attacks in Bangladesh, inKunar and Nuristan. Mili- Khan, the ISIS-Khurasan's cluding the bombing of an tants loyal to the group leader, took responsibility Ahmadi Muslim mosque, atalso operate in other parts for the attack in an inter- tacks on two Shia mosques, of the country, such as the view published in January and the killing of an Italian Zabul province, where in the group's magazine, aid worker. These attacks former IMU members now Dabiq. largely blend into killings of linked to ISIS-Khurasan Pakistani security offi- agnostics, atheists, and forhave kidnapped and killed cials have alternated be- eigners by al-Qaeda-linked Hazara Shia Muslims nu- tween describing the kill- terrorists, and do little to merous times. ers as connected to al- build the ISIS brand in While ISIS-Khurasan's Qaeda or ISIS. In October, Bangladesh. leadership comes largely a police official in Karachi Indian officials have arfrom Pakistan, it lacks a safe said that the group re- rested dozens of alleged ISIS haven in the country. ceived direction from an sympathizers, including inPakistan's civilian govern- ISIS figure in Syria, who, dividuals in Karnataka and ment and military have the by virtue of his name, ap- elsewhere once part of the will and capability to con- pears to be a Pakistani na- Indian Mujahideen/Ansar

The so-called Islamic

al-Tawhid network that has been absorbed by ISIS. Not only do these ISIS-linked cells appear to be small in size, they also lose members to Iraq and Syria, where several have died in fighting.

ISIS-Khurasan Outmaneuvered In the aforementioned interview in Dabiq, ISISKhurasan's leader Hafiz Saeed Khan smugly dismissed the presence of both al-Qaeda and the Afghan Taliban in the region, and is scornful of the oath of allegiance of the Tehreek-e Taliban Pakistan (TTP) to the new Afghan Taliban leader Mullah Akhtar Mansour.

While al-Qaeda is a shadow of its former self in South Asia, the Afghan Taliban, which is arguably ISIS-Khurasan's main competitor in the region, is ascendant. Mullah Akhtar Mansour has consolidated control over the group. His most influential detractors have shown little interest in joining ISIS-Khurasan.

Similarly, the TTP, despite its fracturing, has chosen to stay, at least nominally, in Mansour's camp though there may be tactical, covert cooperation between elements within the TTP network and ISISKhurasan. Should peace talks with Kabul bring about opposition to Mansour, Taliban dissidents are likely to operate autonomously of ISISKhurasan, not under its leadership.

As it stands, ISISKhurasan is more spectator than spoiler in Afghanistan. The Afghan Taliban is contesting for control over key areas in Afghanistan's north and south along Highway-1, the ring-shaped road that connects the country, running adjacent to its perimeter. In addition to controlling terrain for some time in Kunduz, Helmand, and Kandahar, the Afghan Taliban is also very capable of striking Kabul.

The Afghan Taliban aims to abort ISIS-Khurasan in its embryonic phase. It has formed a "special forces" contingent of over 1,000 fighters to thwart ISISKhurasan. Last year, the Afghan Taliban rescued Hazara Shias kidnapped by Uzbeks claiming ISIS-affiliation and killed their abductors.

Beyond the Afghan Taliban, other state and jihadist forces are working to stop the spread of ISIS in the region.

The U.S. drone campaign in Afghanistan is perhaps more relentless in targeting ISIS-Khurasan operatives than the Afghan Taliban.

The campaign seems to have stunted ISIS's growth, but with little reliable onthe-ground reporting, its full effects are unclear. U.S. drone strikes in ISIS-controlled areas of Afghanistan tend to produce high casualty counts. And that could mean that either ISISKhurasan insurgents are being killed in large clusters or significant numbers of civilians are dying along with the militants.

A wide variety of Islamic and Islamist groups in Pakistan have opposed ISIS. Most notable has been the anti-ISIS campaign of JuD, which has intensified after the arrest of some of its former members for joining ISIS. It has launched a sophisticated social media campaign, declaring them as khawarij, using prophetic traditions. The JuD campaign is more than an exercise in damage control. It is a Salafi jihadist group. And there is a real threat of its members defecting to the ISIS camp, especially as LeT remains largely inactive in Kashmir and India, and Islamabad and New Delhi continue their comprehensive dialogue.

What to Look Out For ISIS's future prospects in South Asia look dim. Not only has it missed an opportunity to integrate large numbers of Afghan and Pakistani Taliban dissidents into its network, it also has failed to demonstrate the ideological flexibility to make serious inroads in an Islamically heterogeneous South Asia. ISIS demands that those within its network adopt its takfiri variant of Salafism. In contrast, alQaeda, which fomented insurgencies in Afghanistan and Pakistan post-9/11, cooperated with Sunni Islamist and jihadist groups that were not Salafi or transnational, realizing its dependence on local actors.

Still, while ISIS lacks state patronage, Afghan intelligence officials may be tempted to use it to hit Pakistan. In the past, Afghan intelligence supported the

TTP in its terror campaign in Pakistan. As the Pakistanbased Afghan Taliban continues to strike Afghanistan, ISIS could play, and perhaps already is playing, the same role.

Ten days after militants struck the Indian consulate in Mazar-e Sharif, Afghanistan on January 3, 2016, ISISKhurasan attacked the Pakistani consulate in Jalalabad, with the Indian and Iranian consulates nearby. Within the same hour, terrorists hit the Pakistani city of Quetta, in an attack that claimed by the TTP. ISIS-Khurasan also took responsibility for the attempted targeted killing of Afghan Taliban-linked figure in Peshawar last month; these targeted killings in Pakistan have allegedly been perpetrated by Afghan intelligence in recent years.

Zahir Qadir, an anti-ISIS warlord and Afghan parliamentarian, has alleged that his government is supporting ISIS-Khurasan, pointing toward alleged secret flights transporting militants to his home province of Nangarhar.

He also claims that Lashkar-e Islam, an Afghanistan-based Pakistani militant group fighting against Islamabad, is supported by Kabul and provides logistical support to ISISKhurasan.

In addition to the potential for covert state patronage, exogenous factors could bolster ISIS in South Asia. Iran has increased its use of Afghan and Pakistani Shia fighters as cannon fodder in Syria. They fight under the Fatemiyoun Brigade. One of its recently slain commanders appears to be a Pashtun Shia from the Kurram Agency, an area that has witnessed all-out sectarian war.

The return of these fighters home could upend Sunni-Shia relations in Kurram, creating greater local appeal for the ISIS brand.

In the coming months, ISIS is likely to delineate the boundaries of its Khurasan "province." Al-Qaeda has excluded Pakistan's Punjab and Sindh provinces from its conception of Khurasan. Its AlQaeda in the Indian Subcontinent affiliate has jurisdiction over these provinces, as well as Kashmir, India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. ISIS may follow suit and establish a separate administrative unit for this area - a "Wilayat Hind." But much like its "province" of Khurasan, ISIS-Hind would be an imaginary space than a real stronghold. Courtesy:The Diplomat

Action Speaks Louder

QUOTES 1.

It's hard to beat a person who never gives up. ? Babe Ruth 2.

The three great essentials to achieve anything worthwhile are, first, hard work; second, stick-toitiveness; third, common sense. ? Thomas A. Edison 3.

The difference between ordinary and extraordinary is that little extra. ? Jimmy Johnson 4.

Hard work beats talent when talent fails to work hard." ? Kevin Durant 5.

Hard work without talent is a shame, but talent without hard work is a tragedy. ? Robert Half

An ISIS Member. Source: nbcnews

BCPL. source: breathofoptimism

Sir, As an unbiased common man, I am trying to project a true picture. In any success story be it a mega project or a poor orphan boy/girl showing spectacular result in the examination or a big sports event there are many who claim to be the persons behind. We call it, 'Success has many fathers, failure is always orphan'. This is exactly what happens, when Pradyut Bordoloi, spokesman of the state-congress claims in a Press-conference that the lion's share of the successful commissioning of the Brahmaputra Cracker and Polymer Ltd. (BCPL) should go to congress, particularly to Dr. Monmohan Singh. The Chief-minister also referred the name of Rajib Gandhi, forgetting about the Assam accord.

The mega project is not a magnanimous gift of congress, it is only a provision among others incorporated in the Assam accord. One wonders the sluggish modus operandi in respect of construction of Bogibeel bridge is enough to suggest how serious congress was. Delay results into escalation of cost. Similar sluggish attitude of congress in completing BCPL also escalated the cost. Prime-minister, Narendra Modi, in his address while inaugurating the commissioning of the BCPL on February 5 ventilated the point of escalation of cost. We must concede, both the projects

gained momentum only after the NDA took over the rein of administration in New-Delhi. So, what the people want is action, not highfalutin speech. Action speaks louder than words.

Yours etc.

Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh

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

Letters to the editor and articles should be sent to : The Eastern Today Chowkidingee, Near Sankardeva Hospital Mancotta Road, Dibrugarh-786003 (Assam) Ph: 0373-2328944 Web : editor.easterntoday@gmail.com

p O

Page 9

d e Sipahi chronicles: Tales of Indian soldiers who fought in World War I

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9

More than 70,000 Indian soldiers perished in World War I, fighting on foreign soil in battles they didn't understand.

Their tales of horror, anguish, adventure and loneliness have been captured in several recent releases, finds Gargi Gupta Gabar Singh Negi was 22 when he died, thousands of miles from his home in remote Garhwal village, in a fierce battle that took place in a small village in France called Neuve Chapelle, not far from the German border.

It was early on the morning of March 10, 1915 just over a hundred years ago - and Negi, a soldier in the 39 Garhwal Rifles, had bayonetted and killed several enemy soldiers before the shells raining down all around got him.

His body was never recovered, but Negi was given a posthumous Victoria Cross, the British Empire's highest military award. Back home in his village, his 14-year-old wife Satoori - they'd been

married only a year - was shattered. She didn't remarry.

"Satoori wore the Victoria Cross pinned on her sari all her life. She would wear it even when she went to fetch firewood and all the villagers would stand up to salute her.

Satoori died in 1981. I have a photograph of her in the book - a wrinkly old lady standing and taking the salute. Her story was so moving," says Shrabani Basu, whose recent book, For King and Another Country, looks at World War I (WWI) and the role of India and the Indian army in it, through stories of soldiers like Negi, who left home and country and crossed the dreadedkaalapani to fight in a war that was not their own and knew little of.

Over a million Indians soliders, and support staff such as doctors, porters, cooks, and so on - fought in Europe, the Middle East and other fronts between 1914 and 1918. Of

these, more than 70,000 died or went missing; tens of thousands more were wounded and yet more affected in lifechanging ways. Indian soldiers (which then included Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nepal) played decisive roles in several battles, and their gallantry was commended with 92,000 gallantry awards, 11 of them Victoria Crosses. And yet for a long time afterwards, they remained forgotten even by their own compatriots. Even today, descriptions of the Great War in school history curricula remain Euro-centric. Which is what makes recent books on the subject part of all that's happening around the world to mark the centenary of the war, so welcome.

Of these, Indian Voices of the Great War: Soldiers' Letters, 1914-18, edited by historian David Omissi is a collection of 650 letters, selected from among thousands, that

Want to stay slim? Keep your kitchen clean: Study A new study suggests that a messy kitchen can make you eat more.

If you want to stay slim, you may want to keep your kitchen clean as a new study suggests that a messy kitchen can make you eat more.

Cluttered and chaotic environments can cause stress, which can lead us to grab more of the indulgent snacks, nearly twice as many cookies according to this study.

Conducted at the Cornell Food and Brand Lab, the research shows that cluttered kitchens are caloric kitchens. When stressed out females were asked to wait for another person in a messy kitchen with newspapers on the table,

Clean kitchen . source:newsbala

dishes in the sink and the phone ringing. They ate twice as many cookies compared to women in the same kitchen when it was organized and quiet.

In total they ate 53 more calories from cookies in 10 minutes time.

Lead author Lenny Vartanian from the Univer-

sity of New South Wales said that being in a chaotic environment and feeling out of control is bad for diets. It seems to lead people to think, 'Everything else is out of control, so why shouldn't I be", adding "I suspect the same would hold with males." Courtesy:dnindia

India issues guidelines for Zika virus Suggests avoiding unnecessary travel to affected countries The Union Ministry of the Americas from where Health and Family Welfare local transmission of Zika on Tuesday issued guide- virus has been reported. Milines on the Zika virus and crocephaly in newborn chilappointed the National dren and other neurological Centre for syndromes Disease (Guillain Control Barre SynKundan Pandey (NCDC), drome) Delhi as a have been n o d a l found to be agency for investigation of temporally associated with outbreaks in any part of the the Zika virus infection. country.

However, there are a numThe ministry's move came ber of genetic and other after the World Health Or- causes for microcephaly ganization (WHO) termed and neurological synZika as "an international dromes like Guillain Barre emergency".

Syndrome.

The ministry has also is- In the light of the current sued travel advisories and disease trend, and its possuggested that people sible association with adavoid non-essential travel verse pregnancy outcomes, to affected countries. the Directorate General of According to the guide- Health Services, Ministry of lines, pregnant women or Health and Family Welfare women who are trying to advises on the following: become pregnant should For enhancing surveillance, defer their travel to the af- the ministry has talked fected areas. It suggests about community-based that travellers diagnosed of surveillance and said that febrile illness within two the Integrated Disease Surweeks of return from an af- veillance Programme fected country, should re- (IDSP), through its commuport to the nearest health fa- nity and hospital-based cility. data gathering mechanism, The guidelines also call for would track the clustering pregnant women who have of acute febrile illness and travelled to areas with Zika seek primary cases, if any, virus transmission to men- among those who travelled tion about their travel dur- to areas with ongoing transing ante-natal visits in or- mission in the two weeks der to be assessed and preceding the onset of illmonitored appropriately. ness. IDSP would also adZika virus disease is an vise its state and district emerging viral disease level units to look for clustransmitted through the bite tering of cases of microof an infected Aedes mos- cephaly among newborns quito. This is the same mos- and reporting of Gullian quito that is known to trans- Barre Syndrome. The Mamit infections like dengue ternal and Child Health Diand chikungunya. Zika vi- vision (under NHM) would rus was first identified in also advise its field units to Uganda in 1947. look for clustering of cases The WHO has reported 22 of microcephaly among countries and territories in newborns.

The guidelines talk about rapid response teams which will be activated at central and state surveillance units. Each team would comprise an epidemiologist/ public health specialist, microbiologist and a medical/ paediatric specialist and other experts (like entomologists) to travel at short notice to investigate any suspected outbreak.

The guidelines say that NCDC and the Delhi and National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, have the capacity to provide laboratory diagnosis of Zika virus disease in its acute febrile stage. These two institutions would be the apex laboratories to support the outbreak investigation and for confirmation of laboratory diagnosis. Ten additional laboratories would be strengthened by ICMR to expand the scope of laboratory diagnosis, it promises.

RT- PCR test would remain the standard test. As of now, there is no commercially available test for Zika virus disease. Serological tests are not recommended, inform the guidelines.

Regarding vector control, the ministry has promised that there would be enhanced integrated vector management. The measures undertaken for control of dengue/ dengue hemorrhagic fever will be further augmented.

The guidelines for the integrated vector control will stress on vector surveillance (both for adult and larvae), vector management through environmental modification/ manipulation; personal protection, biological and chemical control at household, community and institutional levels. Courtesy:DTE

wounded."

One surprising sentiment that most of the letters profess, and that Omissi, Basu and the others comment on is loyalty for the king. "Show your loyalty to the Government and to King George V," writes a Jemadar in January 1915 (sic). "It is every man's duty to fulfill his obligations towards God, by rendering the dues of loyalty to his King."

Sipahi chronicles: Tales of Indian soldiers who fought in World War I. source: dnaindia

Indian soldiers in France wrote to loved ones back home.

These letters constitute the "primary" source material that Basu and all other recent writers have mined to build the WWI story. Ironically, the only reason they have survived and can be accessed today is that the British censored them for anything "seditious" or damaging to morale back home. Even

so, they constitute an "authentic" voice and are touching testimonies to the feelings of adventure and wonder, confusion and strangeness, fear and loneliness, frustration and anger, horror and resignation that foot soldiers like Negi must have felt.

Here's what storekeeper DN Sircar writes from Brighton on November 12, 1915: "The girls of this place are notorious and

very fond of accosting Indians and fooling with them. They are ever ready for any purpose."

Another, Dafadar Ali Khan, writes from Egypt, of a Gurkha soldier who began firing indiscriminately. "I spotted him again close at hand and he fired and the bullet passed through my pagri, just missing my head. Great is god's grace! I fired again and dropped him

Should these statements be taken seriously?

Gajendra Singh, in The Testimonies of Indian Soldiers And The Two World Wars: Between Self And Sepoy does a fine, scholarly job of reading between the lines.

His conclusion, that "the sipahis' voice was conditioned and curtailed by the manner in which it was recorded", is a necessary corrective to any contemporary effort to re-read the letters at face value.

Santanu Das's 19141918: Indians On The Western Front, which presents a photographic

record of Indians in France, does something similar - complicating the narrative with the many discordant cues that pictures of the time throw up. You see soldiers huddled up against the cold - winter clothing was in short supply long into the war, and many made do with curtains and tablecloths. Another picture shows sepoys relaxing on the picturesque grounds of Brighton hospital; just beyond is a high fence which kept them from going out.

If the narratives in these books can be faulted in any way, it is for focusing too much attention on the European Front.

Vedica Kant's If I Die Here, Who Will Remember Me? India and the First World War - none of them look at the role of the Indian army in the Middle East, where the largest expedition of soldiers was deployed, and Gallipoli, where the maximum casualties were recorded. Courtesy:dna

CID: The wacky world of fan fiction based on India's longest-running TV show Roshni Nair dives into the wacky, wonderful fan fiction universe pivoted on India's longest-running TV show Isha and Sunita were walking pin cushions. Or so deduces Dr Salunkhe.

Their respective causes of death were electrocution and being pushed off a terrace, but it's a wonder they'd survived this long.

A carpenter had rendered them unconscious a day earlier, embedded nails into their scalps, then "applied a chemical so they wouldn't feel pain". Also, the nail gun effect killed Isha and Sunita's pain receptors, which was why they'd remained unaware, explains the forensic expert to the CID officers.

Achcha.

Not too long after, Dr Salunkhe is infected by a deadly virus. Everyone who'd come in contact with patient zero dies save for Salunkhe, because only he can conduct the autopsy and help CID inch closer to an insidious villain named Herpes Dongara.

This is the ongoing plot of 'Karo Ya Maro', in which the triumvirate - ACP Pradyuman, senior inspectors Abhijeet and Daya - and fellow CID officers solve cases in 24 hours.

Fanning out In July 2015, Multi Screen Media Pvt. Ltd., which runs Sony and affiliated channels, announced the 'Shaatir Lekhak Contest', in which the winning story for any one of three given plots would be made into a CID episode.

A thread on the CID subsection on India Forums (IF), a discussion board for Indian TV, was created with much fanfare.

But since winners - who were to be declared on January 26 - haven't been announced yet, members have gone from excitement to dejection.

This is, however, no deterrent for shaatir lekhaks on IF and FanFiction.Net (FF), the world's most popular fan fiction site. If you thought fan fic is limited to Harry Potter, Twilight, Lord of the Rings, Sherlock and anime, have a rethink. The cornucopia that's Indian TV lends itself beautifully to this genre, with soaps and even mythological shows shapeshifting in the fertile minds of ardent fans. And as India's longest-running TV series, CID is the brightest star in the Indian

fan fiction galaxy.

"I've been watching CID since I was five and never miss an episode," says 19-year-old Palak Manglik, a chartered accountancy student in Malaysia. Manglik has written 63 stories in two years. Her latest, Uljhi Manzil, is a 22-chapter opus on 'Duo' - the fancoined term for Daya and Abhijeet.

A multitude of sub-inspectors have entered and exited CID, presenting a golden opportunity to writers: the bigger the character universe, the more ground you cover.

Add to that many guest appearances, and you have a virtual jambalaya.

Revered (former) characters include senior inspector Rajat, inspectors Asha, Kavin and Vineet and subinspectors Vivek and Tasha. But their lure is negligible compared to hysteria for Daya and Abhijeet and their respective love interests, sub-inspector Shreya and Dr Tarika.

"I love Abhirika (AbhijeetTarika) but write only about Duo because Tarika's boss, Dr Salunkhe, is kabab mein haddi," giggles Manglik.

"My Duo stories Woh Saath Chhod Diya and Vaapas Aana Hai Tujhe crossed 1,000 reviews.

That's a big deal, because there is so much Duo fiction."

The Abhijeet factor In his 2013 Reddit AMA, filmmaker Anurag Kashyap named Aditya Srivastava as one of his favourite actors. Apart from being a staple in Kashyap's films, Srivastava - Abhijeet in CID - has female admirers aplenty.

Like Manglik, FF user Krittika considers herself one of Abhijeet's biggest fans. The Kolkata-based engineering student, who has written 51 fan fic stories, 'ships' (i.e. roots for two characters in a sexual or romantic relationship) Dayareya (Daya-Shreya), but swears by Abhijeet.

"He even faints convincingly. Not like others who faint mechanically, as if the director is saying 'Faint karo' and they just drop to the ground." But, insists the 21-year-old, she's no blind fan. "I don't like Abhirika because Abhijeet went from serious to flirtatious, line maroing in front of his seniors. Even college boys have better expressions than the ones Abhijeet

uses for Tarika."

Abhirika and Dayashreya shippers battle it out on FF, adds Krittika. "They're extremely possessive of characters they love. Duo fans hate Shreya because they think she's 'separating' Abhijeet and Daya.

And because I like Abhijeet but prefer Dayareya, many bash my writing."

Mother lode Why do people write fan fiction? The answers are as plentiful as plankton in the sea, but it's usually an outlet for fans to 'remedy' character pairings or plot holes. And if FF is a cauldron of romance-based CID fan fic, IF is a go-to for whodunits. Contests on IF's CID forum are much like wordplay and repartees inqawwali‌ on steroids. Members here challenge each other with

who's watched CID since its inception in 1997 and has created 20 cases of her own. "I was a fan of Ashutosh Gowariker, who played inspector Virendra.

The show was fantastic until 2007 and deteriorated after. But I and many fans remain positive, hoping creatives will understand what audiences want."

The bold and the dutiful Daya and Abhijeet are the small screen's Jai and Veeru, their bond a bedrock for innumerable stories on both FF and IF. Fan fiction is replete with same-sex friendships progressing into love, onenight stands, and whatever else the mind is capable of conjuring‌ but not when it comes to CID fan fic, which, like the

CID Team, a popular show on Sony TV. source:dnaindia

some inane plot devices.

Such as: "One of CID's main character is abducted who founds himself at Mr Beans flat. On the other side the team gets into a time machine which carries them back to 1990's.

Here they come face to face with Mr Bean. Well!

If he is actually Mr Bean then who is the one at the flat??? [sic]" They take what they get head on, these storytellers - many of whom write poetry and entire screenplays.

Forum stalwart 'gadhadada' has written 100-odd stories in five years. There's also 17year-old Bangladeshi student Khandaker Rifah Tasnia, who implores producers BP Singh and Pradeep Uppoor to give audiences "decent, investigative episodes rather than supernatural crap".

"But my favourite stories are by visrom," she says.

'Visrom' is Usha, a digital marketer from Hyderabad

show, is Platonic Central.

Most bright-eyed and bushy-tailed writers, it seems, lose interest in matters of the groin.

Or do they? A trawl through FF's underbelly reveals a handful of T (not suitable for children) and M (content suitable for mature teens and older) rated fan fic. Users 'storiesbyAbby' and 'girl.with.passion' (whose Heat of Passion has a kiss between Daya and Abhijeet) received brickbats for broaching LGBT territory, unlike the few who pen explicit, but heteronormative stories.

One of them, 'Raven'sCAT' - an Abhirika shipper - writes about handcuffs and rough sex in equal measure.

"There's only two of us, to the best of my knowledge, who ship slash (pairing same-sex characters) in CID fandom. We did face bashing, since most writers and readers still think homosexuality is

taboo. Some even use bloopers for the word 'gay'," 'storiesbyAbby' shares.

Regardless of whether erotic CID fan fic is welcomed or not (it isn't), writers unanimously feel the show is a shadow of its former self. They take hours or weeks at a stretch to write arcs they wish would be adopted.

"Avoid the so-called funny scenes. Also, no YSPT (yeh-sab-plan-tha) stories where one cop is shown dead, then wakes up saying 'It was a plan'," offers Usha.

"CID now lacks relatable female characters. They only serve as romantic interests or wait for orders," Krittika feels.

Meanwhile, FF member Srija, who'd like for the romance to be understated, says she'll continue writing regardless. "I'm studying to become an oncologist but see myself creating fan fic for life.

You need some entertainment. Even if it's once in six months."

Satam speaks "I haven't read the fan fiction, but have heard about it," laughs CID caption: showrunner Shivaji Satam.

"At least two-three families visit the set every day.

When I was in London, a young West Indian pointed an air gun at me, as one of my signature moves on the show. I'll never forget that."

And what of all the memes and jokes his character ACP Pradyuman has spawned? "They're amazing," he cracks up. "It's great to have people remember your dialogues and gestures."

Chitrole clarifies Producer BP Singh, who plays DCP Chitrole on CID, says he's unaware of the reams of fan fic, though "team members check feedback on some platforms". When told about the changes longtime viewers would like to see, he hints thatCID shaped up to avoid shipping out. "Viewing habits have changed, and there's so much competition. We need to change our storytelling to stay alive."

As for the announcement delay in the 'Shaatir Lekhak Contest', Singh says it's just a matter of time. "We got almost 12,000 entries, but our schedule is so tight, we've been unable to find a window to declare the winner and shoot the episode. It will happen soon."

Courtesy:dna

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9

BUSINESS

Q3 profit of Tata Power's slides 88% on coal inventory losses Jamshedpur, Feb 8: The country's largest integrated power company, Tata Power, saw its consolidated net profit plunge a whopping 87.6 percent to Rs 24.46 crore in the three months to December, hit by an exceptional loss of Rs 187.15 crore from falling global coal prices. The corresponding figure in the year-ago period stood at Rs 197.74 crore. "Net profit before exceptional items stood at Rs 212 crore (Rs 24 crore after exceptional items) compared to Rs 198 crore in the third quarter of 2014-15. Exceptional items include adjustments of Rs 187 crore for assets impair-

ment and goodwill due to falling international coal prices," Tata Power said while announcing its latest quarterly results. In terms of installed power generation capacity, Tata Power is the second-largest private electricity generator after Adani Power at 10,440 MW. Tata Power and its subsidiaries have an installed gross generation capacity of 9,036 MW. Consolidated income increased to Rs 9,329.27 crore, from Rs 8,528.40 crore a year earlier. Income from the core power business declined to Rs 6,450 crore from Rs 6,600 crore, driven down mostly by lower international coal

Baleno shipments to Japan began by Maruti; launch slated for March

Baloeno, the latest launch

by Maruti Suzuki. Source: imagecdn8

New Delhi, Feb 8: The country's largest carmaker Maruti Suzuki India (MSI) has dispatched the first shipment of its premium hatchback Baleno to Japan where it will be launched next month.

It is for the first time that a model manufactured

by Maruti Suzuki is being exported to Japan where its parent company Suzuki Motor Corporation (SMC) is based.

"I am convinced that the Baleno will be the success story of 'Make in India', and the significance of Maruti Suzuki as the global production base will further expand," said Suzuki Motor Corporation President and COO T. Suzuki, who was here to take part in the Auto Expo. The first consignment comprised

1,800 units and was shipped from Mundra Port in Gujarat, where SMC is setting up a manufacturing plant to supply cars to its Indian arm. Maruti also plans to export the Baleno to over 100 global markets.

The company and its supplier partners have invested Rs. 1,060 crore in the development of Baleno, which is being manufactured at the company's Manesar plant. Recently, around 200 dealers from Japan visited the Manesar plant to closely look at the manufacturing process of the product.

In the domestic market, the car has been well accepted and currently the company has over 80,000 bookings for the model. It competes with the likes of Hyundai i20, Honda Jazz and Volkswagen Polo and is sold through the company's new premium network of showrooms, Nexa.

(Agencies)

3 projects in WB announced by ITS Kolkata, Feb 8: Tobacco major and diversified FMCG conglomerate ITC Ltd will kick-off three greenfield projects in West Bengal next week. Entailing an estimated investment of more than Rs. 3,000 crore, these projects would cover food and IT sectors, according to sources who did not wish to be identified. The projects would mark the first such major investment by the company in the State since it set up

the ITC Sonar Hotel in 2002-03. The two food projects are at Panchla and Uluberia in Howrah District while the IT project is located at Rajarhat, near here.

A new 500-key hotel, which may be named ITC Royal Bengal, is now under implementation besides the existing one. These projects have been in the pipeline for some time now but had got delayed due to problems. (Agencies)

prices. "Revenue from coal business declined to Rs 1,922 crore from Rs 2,104 crore due to lower price realisation from coal companies. However, profit from this business stood at Rs 237 crore," the statement said. "Exceptional items (net) of Rs 187.15 crore during the quarter and nine months ending December comprise impairment of goodwill in Indonesian companies of Rs 2,507.15 crore...

And reversal of impairment loss in Coastal Gujarat Power of Rs 2,320 crore," it added.

Further, the company said "profit from operations (after adjustment

SLIDING PROFIT

The corresponding figure in the year-ago period stood at Rs 197.74 crore.

MD and Chief Executive of Tata Power, Anil Sardana. Source: tata

for regulatory income) rose 29 percent at Rs 1,253 crore mainly because of all-round strong operational performance and strong asset management". MD and Chief

Executive Anil Sardana said, "Despite a tough market environment, we could improve profitability and maintain strong operational performance across our business ver-

Net profit before exceptional items stood at Rs 212 crore (Rs 24 crore after exceptional items) compared to Rs 198 crore in the third quarter of 2014-15.

Gold biscuits in display. Source: financialtribune

ticals during the reporting quarter." Tata Power is present in all the segments of the power sector -- generation, transmission, distribution and trading. (Agencies)

RBI Governor, Raghuram Rajan.

Source: d1udmfvw0p7cd2

headed into a consolidation zone into the second quarter of 2016," Nomura said in a research note, adding that the growth recovery is not yet broad-based. While urban consumption demand (passenger cars, aviation traffic, diesel consumption, consumer credit) remains the brightest spot in the economy, boosted by higher real disposable incomes and

lower commodity prices, rural consumption demand (of two-wheelers) remains subdued. "Overall, Nomura's proprietary indices for India, together with the high frequency data, indicate some slowdown in the growth momentum towards end2015 and a high likelihood of further monetary policy easing," it said. The government recently lowered its economic growth fore-

cast for 2015-16 to 7-7.5 per cent from 8.1-8.5 percent. On RBI's policy stance, the report said the central bank is expected to deliver a final 25 bps rate cut in April, utilising the room afforded by lower commodity prices (and weaker growth momentum). "Beyond that, we expect the RBI to stay on hold until end2016. We will monitor our growth and policy indicators on a monthly basis for early signs of any further deterioration in growth outlook or possible room for further easing," it added. Meanwhile, RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan on February 2, left the key interest rate unchanged citing inflation risks and growth concerns, while pegging further easing of monetary policy on government's budget proposals. (Agencies)

Greater Faridabad now to be connected by Metro rail service Faridabad, Feb 8: Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar said metro rail service would be extended up to Greater Faridabad after its expansion from YMCA Chowk to Ballabgarh is done. An official release quoting the Chief Minister said people who have constructed houses on government land would not be made homeless, rather they would be given ownership after charging them the current market rate of the land. Unauthorised colonies would be regularised after charging a development fee, it said. Addressing a rally here, Khattar said, "Everyone is aware of

Gold price hits 9month high of Rs 27,700 per 10 grams

Revenue from coal business declined to Rs 1,922 crore from Rs 2,104 crore due to lower price realisation from coal companies.

The country's largest integrated power company, Tata Power, saw its consolidated net profit plunge a whopping 87.6 percent to Rs 24.46 crore in the three months to December, hit by an exceptional loss of Rs 187.15 crore from falling global coal prices.

Indian economic on its way to recovery: Nomura New Delhi, Feb 8: India's economic recovery is losing some steam and there is a likelihood of slowdown in the growth momentum, says Japanese financial services firm Nomura.

While improving urban consumption demand and a robust transportation sector are supporting growth, weak external conditions and sluggish investment demand are weighing on the pace of the recovery, it said.

There is a "downside risk" to its baseline forecast of 7.8 per cent GDP growth in 2016, it said, adding however that Nomura Composite Leading Index, with a reading still above 100, "suggests a mid-cycle consolidation, rather than the start of a downturn".

"The economic recovery, which began in the fourth quarter of 2014, is

PAGE 10

the system that used to be in the state and the country. Corruption was at peak but BJP soon controlled it after coming to power. So far, in our tenure, no one has levelled any allegation of corruption against any BJP leader. " BJP government had put a check on graft with the help of information technology. Today, there are more than 50 services which are accessible online in Haryana and people can avail its benefit anytime, the Chief Minister said, claiming graft in tehsils has been eliminated by introducing e-registration. Speaking about reforms in police administration, he said the

Haryana Chief Minister, Manohar Lal Khattar. Source: voiceonline

state government has introduced such a system that FIR could be registered in any police station irrespective of the place of crime.

Stating that development works amounting to Rs 133 crore would be undertaken in Ballabgarh Assembly constituency, Khattar said the develop-

mental suggestions by local MP and Union MoS Krishan Pal Gujjar and MLA Mool Chand Sharma would be completed on the basis of feasibility. Earlier, the Chief Minister laid foundation stones of four new development projects and dedicated one project to the people in Sector 15-A. (Agencies)

Kochi, Feb 8: Gold prices surged for the 7th straight day, moving up by Rs 30 to hit nine-month high of Rs 27,700 per 10 grams at the bullion market on Saturday, tracking a firm trend overseas and buying by jewellers to meet the wedding season demand.

On the other hand, silver held steady at Rs 35,800 per kg in limited deals.

Bullion traders said a firming trend overseas as a selloff in equities and signs of uneven US economic growth fuelled bets that the Fed would hold off on raising rates again, boosted appeal of the precious metals, influenced gold prices here. Besides, sustained buying by jewellers driven by ongoing wedding season demand too helped gold to trade at nine-month high, they said. Globally, gold

climbed 1.57 percent to USD 1,173.50 an ounce and silver by 1.08 percent to USD 15.01 an ounce in New York in yesterday's trade. In the national capital, gold of 99.9 and 99.5 percent purity edged up

by Rs 30 each to Rs 27,700 and Rs 27,550 per ten grams respectively, a level last seen on May 19 2015. The precious metal had gained Rs 620 in the previous six days. Sovereign, however held steady at Rs 22,600 per piece of eight grams. On the other hand, silver ready held unchanged at Rs 35,800 per kg, while weeklybased delivery weakened

by Rs 20 to Rs 35,805 per kg. Meanwhile, silver coins continued to be traded at last level of Rs 52,000 for buying and Rs 53,000 for selling of 100 pieces. (Agencies)

Obama to launch a long-shot bid next week Washington, Feb 8: U.S. President Barack Obama will launch a long-shot bid next week to impose a $10-a-barrel tax on crude oil that would fund the overhaul of the nation's aging transportation infrastructure, the White House said. The proposed fee, which would be paid by oil companies and phased in over five years, was quickly met with scorn by lawmakers in the Republican-controlled Congress.

In the last year of his presidency, Mr. Obama has said the country must stop subsidising the "dirty" fossil fuels of the past and focus on clean, renewable fuels that do not exacerbate climate change. "By placing a fee on oil, the President's plan creates a clear incentive for private sector innovation to reduce our reliance on oil and at the same time invests in clean energy technologies that will power our future," the White House said in a statement. Set to be officially announced in Mr.Obama's fiscal 2017 budget plan on Tuesday, the fee would provide nearly $20 billion a year to help expand transit systems across the country and more than $2 billion a year to support the research and development of self-driving vehicles and other low-carbon technologies. Republican law-

makers, who have repeatedly clashed with the Obama administration over energy policy, panned the proposal on social media.

House of Representatives Majority Whip Steve Scalise asked on Twitter whether the proposal was "Obama's worst idea yet?"

The $10 tax would come at a time of tumbling oil prices. Oil prices fell last month to below $30 a barrel, the lowest level since 2003, as demand fails to keep pace with a glut of new supply and the world's biggest oil producers resist cutting production. "At a time when oil companies are going through the largest financial crisis in over 25 years, it makes little sense to raise costs on the industry," Neal Kirby, a spokesman for the Independent Petroleum Association of America, said in a statement. Mr. Kirby said the tax would ultimately be passed along to U.S. consumers, who have benefited from low gasoline prices. Jeff Zients, director of the White House National Economic Council, pushed back against assertions the oil tax would place U.S. crude producers at a disadvantage. He told reporters on a call that the fee would be applied to domestically produced and imported barrels of oil but not to crude exported from the U.S. (Agencies)

Quarterly net profit posted Performance edition Q3 launched by Audi

by Jet Airways AUDI Q3 Mumbai, Feb 8: Jet Airways Group, India's second largest airline by domestic market share, has reported net profit of Rs.467 crore for the third quarter ended December 31, 2015 compared to Rs. 29 crore in the year-ago period. This is the third consecutive quarter that the airline group has reported net profit. Jet Airways and JetLite form the Jet Airways Group of which 24 per cent is owned by Etihad Airways.

Naresh Goyal, Chairman, Jet Airways said, "The record profit and overall strong financial perfor-

mance in this fiscal is a result of several initiatives undertaken for improving productivity and efficiency." Jet Group's revenues improved by Rs. 266 crore to Rs. 5,702 crore in Q3 of FY16 while passenger revenues rose by 4.8 per cent to Rs. 4,845 crore from Rs. 4,621 crore. The growth in passengers flown and the increased aircraft utilization helped in improving both operating and financial performance in the third quarter. Cramer Ball, the outgoing Chief Executive Officer, Jet Airways, said: "Our strong opera-

tional performance resulting in record profit demonstrates the progress we continue to make in our turnaround plan. The key achievements during Q3 have been lower cost per ASK excluding fuel and higher aircraft utilization resulting in additional capacity equivalent of nine 737 aircraft without any addition to the fleet." Mr. Ball said "The competitive and structural challenges in the Indian aviation market continue to put pressure on our yields. In addressing these, we will focus on cost reduction."

(Agencies)

Mumbai, Feb 8: The smallest SUV in Audi's growing range is now also one of the fastest on the road. The Q3 already comes in a very sporty RS guise but Audi's engineers have decided that that car's 2.5-liter, five-cylinder engine hasn't been living up to its full potential.

By adding a new fuel pump and radiator, they've found an extra 27hp, bringing total output up to a remarkable 367hp. More impressive still is that when this power is fed through a recalibrated seven-speed S tronic transmission to all four wheels it results in a 0100km/h time of 4.4 seconds. That's faster than a

Porsche 911 Carrera. And the car's not just quick off the mark, it can go on to a top speed of 167mph (270km/h) while other sporty Audis are electronically limited to 155mph (250km/h), and, thanks to equally impressive suspension (the car sits 20mm lower than a standard Q3), it shouldn't rock and roll in the bends, either. RS sport suspension plus with damper control is also available as an option and that will let owners push the car's parameters further still or set everything up for ultimate comfort on those days when the whole family's travelling together. As well as a phenomenal turn of

speed, the Performance model differentiates itself from the RS Q3 with unique 20-inch alloy wheels, matte titaniumlook detailing around the grille and windows and the option of Ascari Blue as an exterior paint finish.

LED front and rear running lights are also standard kit. Inside, the seats are finished in leather and Alcantara and the dials and gauges get the sports treatment with white faces and red needles. The RS Q3 Performance will make its debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March but is available to order in Europe from Monday. (Agencies)

¨ The Q3 already comes in a very sporty RS guise but Audi's engineers have decided that that car's 2.5-liter, five-cylinder engine hasn't been living up to its full potential. ¨ By adding a new fuel pump and radiator, they've found an extra 27hp, bringing total output up to a remarkable 367hp. ¨ More impressive still is that when this power is fed through a recalibrated seven-speed S tronic transmission to all four wheels it results in a 0-100km/h time of 4.4 seconds. That's faster than a Porsche 911 Carrera. ¨ And the car's not just quick off the mark, it can go on to a top speed of 167mph (270km/h) while other sporty Audis are electronically limited to 155mph (250km/h), and, thanks to equally impressive suspension (the car sits 20mm lower than a standard Q3), it shouldn't rock and roll in the bends, either.

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9

Features

PAGE 11

HEALTH & LIFESTYLE Prevent cancer with Indian spices When the opposition in question is an adamant disease like cancer, our armour should be packed with a lifestyle of regular health check-ups and a diet including foods that double as anti-cancer agents.

Carrying the spirit of defeating a disease often labelled 'incurable', we try to find out diet methods, especially in the selection of spices that can avert the multiplying of malignant cells in the body that gradually mature into insurmountable cancer cells.

Our grandmothers would in no time prepare us a glass of warm milk with saffron sprinkled on top when we went crying to her with bruise on our knee or wound on the elbow. The herbal turmeric paste soothed minor cuts and healed all skin rashes.

These age-old kitchen tricks are little more than mere quick-fix tactics.

Spices like turmeric and saffron are inherent with medicinal properties that, when incorporated to our diet from an early stage strengthens our bodies against invasion of toxins, bacteria and virus.

A Senior consultant sur-

gical oncologist and senior clinical nutritionist, says about the goodness of Indian spices with cancer-fighting properties and the necessity of their inclusion to our eating habits.

Turmeric/Curcumin: This is the king of spices when it comes todealing with cancer diseases, besides it adding a zesty colour to our food on the platter. Turmeric contains the powerful polyphenol Curcumin that has been clinically proven to retard the growth of cancer cells causing prostrate cancer, melanoma, breast cancer, brain tumour, pancreatic cancer and leukemia amongst a host of others.

Curcumin promotes 'Apoptosis'(programmed cell death/cell suicide) that safely eliminates cancer breeding cells without posing a threat to the development of other healthy cells. In cases of conventional radiotherapy and chemotherapy, the surrounding cells too become a target in addition to the cancer cells. Therefore, the sideeffects are imminent.

Fennel: Armed with phyto-nutrients and antioxidants, cancer cells

have nothing but to accept defeat when the spice is fennel. 'Anethole', a major constituent of fennel resists and restricts the adhesive and invasive activities of cancer cells. It suppresses the enzymatic regulated activities behind cancer cell multiplication. A tomato-fennel soup with garlic or fresh salads with fennel bulbs make for an ideal entree prior to an elaborate course meal.

Roasted fennel with parmesan can be another star pick.

Saffron: A natural carotenoid dicarboxylic acid called 'Crocetin' is the primary cancer-fighting element that saffron contains. It not only inhibits the progression of the disease but also decreases the size of the tumour by half, guaranteeing a complete goodbye to cancer.

Though it is the most expensive spice in the world for it is derived from around 250,000 flower stigmas (saffron crocus) that make just about half a kilo, a few saffron threads come loaded with benefits you won't regret paying for. Saffron threads can be used in

various ways: Cumin: Yes, it aids digestion and probably that is why we like chewing a handful of cumin seeds at the end of every meal.

However, its health benefits go beyond. A portent herb with anti-oxidant characteristics, cumin seeds contain a compound called 'Thymoquinone' that checks proliferation of cells responsible for prostate cancer. So, instead of loading your usual snack options with calories and oil, add this seasoning to your bread, fried beans or sauce and make the dish rich in flavour and high on health. You can rediscover the magic of cumin in your regular bowl of tadka dal and rice too!

Cinnamon: It takes not more than a half teaspoon of cinnamon powder every day to keep cancer risk away. A natural food preservative, cinnamon is a source of iron and calcium. Useful in reducing tumour growth, it blocks the formation of new vessels in the human body.

Some of the effective ways of including cinnamon in your diet are: -Start your day with a

cup of cinnamon tea (in leaf or sachet) -Make your breakfast meal a super healthy one; just add this wonder spice to your morning oatmeal and you are going well!

-A fruity delight comprising chopped apples, a few walnuts and your magic potion cinnamon -Honey and cinnamon in your glass of milk before going to bed; no cancer nightmares assured!

Oregano: More than a pizza or pasta topping, oregano confirms its worth as a potential agent against prostate cancer.

Consisting of anti-microbial compounds, just one teaspoon of oregano has the power of two cups of red grapes! Phyto-chemical 'Quercetin' present in oregano restricts growth of malignant cells in the body and acts like a drug against cancer-centric diseases.

Cayenne Pepper/Capsaicin (Chilli peppers): A promising spice with anti-cancer properties, an overdose of chilli peppers however should be restrained. Capsaicin induces the process of apoptosis that destroys potential cancer cells and

Variety of Indian spices. Source: foodtoglow reduces the size of leukemia tumour cells considerably. It can be concluded that apart from setting our tongues on fire, chilli peppers can scare cancer pathogens off too.

Ginger: This humble spice boasts of medicinal qualities that help lowering cholesterol, boost metabolism and kill cancer cells. Easily added to vegetable dishes, fish preparations and salads, ginger enhances the flavour in cooking. Chew on fresh parsley if the odour bothers you.

fenugreek, mustard, mint leaves, rosemary, Limonin (fresh lemon), virgin olive, vinegar and avocado are other cancer-fighting diet components. \ Other diet habits that can keep cancer risk at bay are as follows: 1. A plant-based diet with a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, grains and beans is the best organic way to fight cancer.

2. Add fibre: Replace white rice with brown rice in meals 3. Substitute whole-grain bread for white bread; Others: Cloves, anise, choose a bran muffin over basil, garlic, caraway, a pastry

4. Snack on popcorn instead of potato chips.

5. Eat fresh fruits with skin.

6. Omega-3 fatty acids fight inflammation.

7. Cook with olive oil instead of regular vegetable oil 8. Avoid packaged or fried foods that are high in trans-fats 9. Avoid processed salt.

Celtic sea salt/Himalayan salt can be consumed sparingly.

10. Cancer patients: Do not load your diet with turmeric or Curcumin supplements without doctor's consult or prescribed dosage.

(Agencies)

5 Tangy Veg Dishes from Manipur Tips to organize your closet Manipuri cuisine is marked for its abundant usage of fresh herbs and spices. They use plenty of chili pepper and local herbs to make dishes.

Since they use mostly home grown vegetables the cuisine tends to be sea- Arnab sonal. However, lots of Manipuri dishes are not hard to prepare and they can please your taste buds for sure.

Below listed are 5 tangy veg dishes from Manipuri cuisine that you can try.

Aloo Kangmet This is an easy to make dish that requires minimal ingredients. It fits well as a side dish to steamed rice. You will need 2 potatoes, a few red chillies, a chopped onion, oil, salt and Coriander leaves.

Boil the potatoes and mash them after peeling skin well. Fry the red chillies in oil and then crush them well. SautĂŠ fry the onions next and add the mashed potatoes. Add all the ingredients now and fry on low heat for a few minutes. Before serving the dish, sprinkle the coriander leaves on top.

Mairen saag (kumro tarkari) This is a tasty pumpkin dish that will make your taste buds amazed and actually no saag is involved in it. You will need cubed pumpkin, sliced onion, salt and mustard oil to make it. Spices required are nigella, coriander, turmeric powder and dry red chili.

At first, fry the nigella seeds in hot oil in a pan.

Next add the chilly and onions. Saute fry for a while and then add coriander powder and turmeric. Next, add the cubed pumpkin pieces to the mix. Add salt and keep cooking till the pumpkin is soft. Before

serving the dish, sprinkle coriander leaves on top.

Chana Kanghou It is a traditional dish of Manipur -used mostly as snack. It goes well with tea and tastes yummy.

You will need soaked and cooked black to Ghosh chickpea make this dish. The other required ingredients are sliced tomatoes, sliced onions, chopped green chilies, chopped garlic cloves, bay leaf, salt and oil. You will also need spices like turmeric powder, garam masala powder.

At first, sautĂŠ fry the bay leaf in oil. Then add the

dry eventually. Before serving, garnish using chopped onions and chili.

Kelichana Angouba This is a dish which Manipuris use as evening snack mostly! You will need soaked pea, oil, salt, chopped onion and ginger garlic paste to make it.

You will also need spices like chilli powder, cumin powder and garam masala powder.

At first, boil the soaked pea using a pressure cooker for 10 minutes or so. Meanwhile cut the onion and coriander leaf for garnishing. Set aside the boiled soft peas.

Then, fry the chopped

vegetables and serve hot.

Chak angouba (fried rice) This is a comfort food that you can gorge on without any side dish.

While the authentic recipe has egg, you may not use egg! You can even use left over rice to cook this yummy dish. You will need cooked rice, mixed chopped vegetables (Carrot, cauliflower and potatoes), sliced onion, and chopped green chillies.

You will also require whole cumin, Coriander powder, turmeric powder, salt and oil.

At first, you need to fry the cumin seeds in hot oil.

Remove all of the clothes and shoes from your closet. Fold them and make piles on the floor or on your bed.

- Decide which clothes you want to keep, which you wear on a regular basis. If you've worn a certain item in the last week, month, or even few months, you should hold on to it as long as it's seasonally appropriate.

Make a 'keep' pile for the clothes that you will keep and wear on a regular basis.

- Store the clothes you won't be wearing for a while. If it's winter, store your tank tops and summer dresses. Put them in a plastic bin and put them in the back of your closet,

An organised closet. Source: artinthefind under your bed, or in a storage unit.

- If you want to have an organized closet, then get rid of as many items of clothing as possible. If you haven't worn some-

thing in over a year and it has no sentimental value, it's time to donate it. Try to keep the sentimental value clothes to a minimum, though. Throw clothes that are worn out, full of moth

holes or faded.

- Clean the inside of the closet before you put your clothes back.

Vacuum or sweep the floor and wipe the walls down with a cleaner.

Whooping cough vaccine offers short-term protection A new study has found that the effectiveness of routine Tdap booster wanes in adolescents.

Manipuri Tangy dishes. Source: nelive chopped and sliced vegetables. Cook for a while and add the spices including salt. Mix well and keep stirring. Next, pour in cooked chana and cook for 10 minutes or so. If required, you may add a little water but remember it should be

onion in oil. After some time, add the ginger garlic paste to the pan. Next, pour the boiled peas and stir fry. Add the spices and salt and mix everything well. Cook under lid on low heat for a while.

When the dish is ready, garnish it with chopped

As they sputter, add sliced onions. Add the coriander and turmeric powder next. Stir fry for a while and add mixed vegetables and chillies.

Sprinkle salt and keep cooking. Pour the rice and mix well. Serve the dish hot. Courtesy: Nelive

Kaiser Permanente's Vaccine Study Center found that the vaccine provides moderate protection against whooping cough during the first year after vaccination, but its effectiveness wanes to less than 9 percent after four years among teenagers who have received only a newer form of the whooping cough vaccine (acellular pertussis vaccine) as infants and children.

The study explored Tdap effectiveness among adolescents during outbreaks of whooping cough in Northern California in

may contain whooping cough more effectively if it is administered to adolescents in anticipation of a local outbreak rather than on a routine basis at age 11 or 12.

Whooping cough. Source: modernreaders 2010 and 2014. Despite Tdap coverage of more than 90 percent in adolescents, they had the highest incidence of pertussis of any age group in 2014. Routine vaccination at ages 11 to 12 did not prevent the epidemic.

This study demonstrates that despite high rates of Tdap vaccination, the

growing number of adolescents who have received only the newer acellular pertussis vaccines continue to be at higher risk of contracting whooping cough and sustaining epidemics, said lead author Nicola Klein.

Klein added that because Tdap provides reasonable short-term protection, it

Klein noted that the strategy of routinely vaccinating adolescents to prevent future disease did not prevent the 2014 epidemic, arguably because the protection afforded by a dose of Tdap was too short-lived. While awaiting development of new vaccines that will provide longer-lasting protection against pertussis, we should consider alternate Tdap immunization strategies for adolescents.

These findings are published in Pediatrics.

(ANI)

cmyk

cmyk

DIBRUGARH, TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9

PAGE 12

Irfan Pathan ties knot with Jeddah-based model most beautiful phase of my life. We both wish to thank everyone for your wishes & #blessings."

ANI New Delhi, Feb.8 : Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan recently married Jeddah-based model Safa Baig in a secret ceremony in Mecca.

The 21-year-old model, who is currently working for a PR firm, is also a popular nail artist.

Confirming the news, Irfan posted a picture of him along with wife Safa on Twitter and wrote, "Entering probably the

Irfan Pathan

Terry eager to prolong Chelsea contract

According to the reports, Irfan and Baig met two years back in Dubai and recently got engaged with their families blessings.

Recently, cricketers Varun Aaron, Harbhajan Singh and Suresh Raina also tied a knot, while Yuvraj Singh, Mohit Sharma and all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja got engaged.

John Terry

ANI Johannesburg, Feb.8 :Chelsea skipper John Terry, who had earlier announced that he would leave the club at the end of the season, has expressed his desire to extend his contract with the Premier League

champions.

Terry's comments came following his side 1-1 draw against Manchester United in their league clash at Stamford Bridge.

The 35-year-old defender, who made 698

Chelsea are currently languishing down to the 13th spot in standings, with just seven wins from 25 games which they have played.

The Guus Hiddink-led side will now play against Newcastle on February 13.

De Villiers backs Proteas to stage strong comeback against England ANI Johannesburg, Feb.8 : South Africa skipper AB de Villiers has called on his side to stage a strong comeback in the remaining ODIs of the fivematch series against England, insisting that the Alastair Cook -led side are not unbeatable.

Describing England as a `confident` side, De Villiers said that although the opponents were playing really good cricket, he added that South Africa could give them a strong competition, Sport24 reported.

De Villiers also stressed that his side had a couple of opportunities to turn the things around for themselves in their pre-

AB de Villiers vious two matches, but added that they unfortunately failed to do so.

South Africa are currently trailing 0-2 in the series following their five-wicket defeat in the second ODI and 39-run

McKenzie set to join Proteas as batting consultant

Neil McKenzie ANI Johannesburg, Feb.8 : Former South Africa batsman Neil McKenzie is all set to join the Proteas side as a new batting consultant.

According to Sport24, the 40year-old revealed that Cricket South Africa (CSA) wants him

to travel and work with the national side as and when required, including for the upcoming ICC World T20 in March.

CSA, however, insisted that nothing has been confirmed as yet, adding that they would hold talks with McKenzie once he returns from the United Arab Emirates.

The former opening batsman, who retired from all forms of cricket recently, is currently playing in the Masters Champions League in Dubai, which is aimed at giving retired players a chance to take the field again.

defeat in the opening match.

South Africa will now aim to regain some pride when they take on England in the third ODI at the SuperSport Park in Centurion on Tuesday.

India women's team made the opening game against Nepal in the hockey event of the South Asian Games look like a practice match. The Indian men's team defeated Bangladesh 4-1 ANI Guwahati, Feb 8 : Indian women's hockey team began their campaign in the 12th South Asian Games with a 24-0 mauling of a hapless Nepal in a completely lopsided round robin league match, here on Sunday.

(Read more hockey stories here) The opening match of the Games looked like a practice match with the Indian players scoring goal at will and the home team players appeared to be competing in

registering their names in the score sheet at the Moullana Tayabullah Stadium.

Strikers Soundarya Yendala (15th, 52nd, 62nd and 64th minutes) and Poonam Barla (7th, 472nd, 43rd and 51st) scored the most with four strikes each.

Four players - Rani (2nd, 46th and 48th), Jaspreet Kaur (4th, 35th and 56th), Neha Goyal (14th, 22nd and 70th) and Deepika (53rd, 62nd and 67th) - scored three goals each while Gurjit Kaur (21st and 41st) and Preeti

Dubey (23rd and 29th) got the other goals for India.

India, who have qualified for the Olympics after a gap of 36 years, are ranked 13th in the world while Nepal are not even included in ranking charts of the world governing body of the game, the FIH. India play their next league match against Sri Lanka, another minnows, on Monday.

Only three teams are competing in the Games and India are expected to walk away with the gold.

Men's Team Win Indian men's hockey team beat Bangladesh 4-1 in their opening match of the 12th South Asian Games to warm up for their big match against Pakistan.

The Indians did not exert much in the match against the lowly Bangladesh and they led 3-0 at the halfway mark through goals from Pradhan Sommanna (10th), Gaganpreet Singh (27th penalty corner) and Nilam Sanjeev Xess (30th penalty corner).

Chandimal says India Ramos brands Modric as Madrid's series ideal opportunity `backbone` post Granada win Ramos, however, admitted for young Sri Lankans it was a difficult match for

appearances for his side since his debut in 1998, said that he did not have any communication with the club yet about the new deal, but insited that he wanted to continue with the club.

Terry, however, admitted that the most important thing at the moment was to bring Chelsea back on track, Sport24 reported.

South Asian Games: Indian Women's Hockey Team Pound Nepal 24-0

Dinesh Chandimal ANI Pune, Feb. 08 : Sri Lanka stand-in captain Dinesh Chandimal believes that the upcoming three-match Twenty20 series against India will be an ideal opportunity for young raw talents to show their mettle before the Asia Cup and World T20.

Chandimal will lead a 15man second-string team in the absence of injured skipper Lasith Malinga.

The tourists will also be without the services of several first choice players

such as Angelo Mathews, Nuwan Kulasekara, Rangana Herath and Nuwan Pradeep, who are recovering from their respective injuries.

"Four to five senior players are injured. As a captain, it is a big challenge to play in India. It is a very good opportunity for the youngsters to show their talent before the World T20 and Asia Cup," said Chandimal during a press conference on the eve of the opening T20 in Pune.

Reflecting on his own expectations from the series, the 26-year-old wicketkeeper batsman stressed that his best performance has not come yet and that he will try to achieve so in this tournament.

The second match will be played in Ranchi on Friday before the third and final T20 in Visakhapatnam on February 14.

Kiwis hand McCullum perfect send-off with ODI series win against Oz ANI Johannesburg, Feb.8 : Skipper Brendon McCullum completed the sixes double as he bids adieu to his ODI career by hitting a speedy knock during his side third and the final match of the Chappell-Hadlee series against Australia in Hamilton on Monday.

McCullum, who is one of the biggest hitters of all time, smashed six boundaries and three sixes while making 47 off just 27 balls to reach the milestone of 200 sixes from 260 ODI matches.

The 34-year-old, who shares the world record for maximum Test sixes with Australian Adam Gilchrist, received a guard of honour from the entire Australian

team as he walked to the crease, Sport24 reported.

The skipper will now play two Tests against Australia before retiring from international cricket.

Despite McCullum's speedy knock and substantial support by opener Martin Guptill (59) and Grant Elliot (50), New Zealand were bundled out for 246 runs against Australia.

For Australia, Mitchell Marsh bagged three wickets while Josh Hazlewood, John Hastings and Scott Boland claimed two wickets each. Adam Zampa chipped in with a wicket.

Earlier, Australia leveled the series 1-1 against New Zealand following their four-wicket win in the second ODI in Wellington.

his side as Real failed to create chances before Modric scored a stunning goal in the 85th minute.

Ramos also showered praise on teammate Karim Benzama, who also contributed in his side's triumph by scoring his 19th league goal of the season.

Luka Modric ANI Madrid, Feb.8 : Real Madrid skipper Sergio Ramos has heaped praise on midfielder Luka Modric, labeling him as the `backbone` of the team, after he scored a match- winning goal during his side's 2-1 win over Granada in the La Liga clash.

It was Modric's first La Liga goal this season and just his second goal overall.

"His goal today makes him more visible, but for me what he brings to the game is a must. He's never marked out much, but he is the backbone of the team," Ramos was quoted as saying by goal.com.

Describing Benzema as a `unique` player, the 29year-old insisted that he had played tremendously and could turn out to be an asset for the Spanish giants.

Madrid are currently third in the league standings and are four points behind topplaced Barcelona, while Granada are just one spot above the relegation zone.Madrid will next lock horns with Athletic Bilbao on Saturday.

Kiwis hand McCullum perfect sendoff with ODI series win against Oz ANI Johannesburg, Feb.8 : New Zealand gave their skipper Brendon McCullum the best sendoff as they defeated Australia by 55 runs in the third and the final ODI, thereby clinching the three-match ChappellHadlee series 2-1 at Seddon Park in Hamilton on Monday.

Replying to the target of 247 runs, Australia were bundled out for 191 runs despite some resistance by opener Usman Khawaja (44) and Mitchell Marsh (41).

Matt Henry bagged three important wickets of opener David Warner, Marsh and George Bailey while Corey Anderson and Ish Sodhi also claimed two wickets each.

Adam Milne and Doug Bracewell claimed one wicket each.

Earlier, McCullum bid

Brendon McCullum adieu to the limited-over format in a trademark fashion as he reached the milestone of 200 sixes from 260 ODI matches, Sport24 reported.

McCullum, who is one of the biggest hitters of all time, smashed six boundaries and three sixes while making 47 off just 27 balls.

McCullum also received a guard of honour from the entire Australian team as he walked to the crease and

a standing ovation from the spectators.

Despite McCullum's speedy knock and substantial support by opener Martin Guptill (59) and Grant Elliot (50), New Zealand collapsed for 246 runs.

Sodhi was adjudged as the `man of the match` for crucial breakthroughs in his eight overs spell. He claimed two crucial wickets, giving away just 31 runs.

`Injured` Finch likely to be replaced as Oz T20 skipper ANI Sydney, Feb.8 : Australian T20 skipper Aaron Finch is expected to be replaced by Steve Smith for the upcoming World T20 Cup to be played in India due to a hamstring injury.

The 29-year-old suffered a hamstring injury during the second game of the three-match series against India in Melbourne, forcing Shane Watson to take on the role of stand-in cap-

tain for the third T20 in Sydney.

Australia later went on to suffer a humiliating 03 defeat in the series.

mitted that he had an utmost respect for Smith as a captain and added that he would take his advice or help whenever required.

Smith's appointment as a T20 skipper for the upcoming pinnacle event means that he will become the first captain since Ricky Ponting's retirement in 2009, to lead the national squad in all three formats of the game.

Earlier, Finch had ad-

Aaron Finch

"I'm the captain of the side and I've got the utmost respect for him (Smith) as a player and as a leader.I know that no matter what the situation, everyone is just there to win a game.I'm going to use him as much as I can for advice and for tactics, and just

small things like that.

Under my leadership I want everyone to have their plans and their own ideas, and be able to feel comfortable to come to me no matter what the situation of the game. It's very open and that will be no different with Steve there. It's great to have him in the side," Finch was quoted, as saying by ESPNcricinfo.

The ICC World T20 is slated to be held from March 11 to April 3.

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

Editorial Adviser: Subir Bhaumik

Editor: Ripunjoy Das

cmyk

cmyk

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