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Dibrugarh, Friday, August 21, 2015
5.00
Pages- 12
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70,000 people and 3,900 hectares of crop land affected in Assam in second wave of floods
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Arunachal legislative assembly speaker Nabam Rebia irked by defamatory Facebook post
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Issue 79
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Vol. 1
Every Thursday & Sunday
of Chief Judicial Magistrate Yupia on Wednesday for a defamatory post against him on the social networking site Facebook. Citing the freedom of speech, Rebia said that “no right is absolute and is subjected to reasonable restrictions”. He added that on July 27 last Rekam posted a defamatory allegation against him under the heading ‘Godfather
ET CAPSULES
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The Department had been entrusted with responsibility of disseminating the policies and programmes of the Government to the public and at the same time assess reactions of the people to keep the Govt. informed of such feedback information.
In the worsening flood situation in the state, around 70,000 people and over 3,900 hectares of crop area in Assam have been hit by the second wave of floods as the southwest monsoon turned 'vigorous' in the northeast in the past 24 hours.
Torrential rains for the past few days submerged many villages
Contd. on Page 3
districts in Upper Assam. Tinsukia district has been affected mostly due to flood;
ET Bureau Dibrugarh, Aug 20
Torrential rain for the past four days once again triggered flood situation in some of the
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Naharlagun, Aug 20: The Department of Information & Public Relations since its inception has been playing an effective role in empowerment of people by providing free flow of information through press and photo releases to media, departmental publications and advertisements apart from other related publicity services.
Contd. on Page 3 ○
Flood wreaks havoc in Upper Assam
ET Correspondent Guwahati, Aug 20
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Legislative Assembly speaker Nabam Rebia today in a press conference here at Arunachal Press Club said that the social networking sites are being “grossly misused” in the state. He also informed that a criminal and civil monetary suit of Rs 10 crore has been filed against one Tarh Rekam at the court
IPR Dept on a drive to exploit social media for information dissemination
Contd. on Page 4
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ET Correspondent Itanagar, Aug 20
Contd. on Page 4
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Incessant rains affect surface SIGNS OF A DEVELOPED ASSAM! communication in Lohit ○
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Body recovered
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Mr. Chief Minister is this the example of your developed Assam where students attend class at Chokolia LP School near Demow in Dibrugarh district with umbrealla in their hand in a government school ? Pic - UB Photos.
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Contd. on Page 3
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6,000-MW Assam-Agra transmission line to be commissioned by August-end
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ET Correspondent Guwahati, Aug 20
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A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Aug 20
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Around hundred protestors under the banner of Krihak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS) today gheraoed the office of Small Tea growers directorate, Dibrugarh seeking various demands. The organisation demanded that small tea growers suffer from the price fluctuations which have weakened the economy for long. "We demand that minimum support price be fixed at Rs 35 per kg" said Kumud Gogoi, a leader of KMSS.
Indian IT continues to increase its share of the global outsourcing market. In the first half of this year, they were significant gainers in terms of the number of deals they
Chinese military orders weapons safety check after Tianjin blasts The Chinese military has ordered a thorough safety check of the army's storage of weapons and ammuni-
BUSINESS
REGION
NEIGHBOURS
EDITORIAL
tions after last week's deadly warehouse explosions in Tianjin in which 114 people were killed and 65 others went missing. The PLA's four headquarters -General Staff Headquarters, General Political Department.
ing relief to energy-starved Pakistan. It also creates an opportunity for cooperation between Iran and Pakistan to promote peace in their respective Balochistan regions, creating a virtuous cycle of economic growth and improved security.
the 1.25 lakh crore package which is nothing but rehash of existing schemes. The Centre said it involves major additional outlays beyond the normal flow of central funds in which every scheme is a new work.
Iran and Pakistan: Back to Business
The July nuclear deal likely clears the way for the completion of sanctions-delayed energy projects between Islamabad and Tehran, bring-
A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Aug 20
that there is 30 to 40 per cent staff shortage but no recruitment has taken has taken place. “There has been an anti-Assamese lobby which has been hindering the recruitment process,’’ a source said. “It is still unknown how the Dibrugarh FCI is running with minimum staff,’’ a source said. “We are facing many problems because we have to work with minimum staff and yet the higher officials are not taking any steps,’’ said an FCI staff.
The shortage of staff in the office of Food Corporation of India (FCI) Dibrugarh district has created problems for the office bearers in carrying out their duties. According to sources, in the Dibrugarh Food Corporation of India office two managerial posts were allotted against the requirement of seven to eight such posts for proper dissemination of work. Sources said ○
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Assam reeling under twin problems of flood and erosion: ASDMA
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KMSS joins small tea growers' protest
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Strike continues at Bogibeel project
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and ABB was given the order for the supply of equipment for the transmission line. The planning of the project was started in 2006-07 and its execution took place in 2012, the official said. The high capacity HDVC corridor shall integrate the North-Eastern region with other regions of the country to facilitate smooth and reliable power transfer giving rise to stablenational grid, he said. Contd. on Page 4
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The public sector Power Grid has said that the Rs 12,000-crore transmission line between Assam and Agra having 6,000-MW capacity will be commissioned by monthend. "The 1,730-km-long 800 kv HVDC (high voltage direct current) transmission line would start commissioning by either August 30 or August
district of West Bengal in Eastern region having an acute constraints in the availability of right of way," the official said. "Accordingly, the high capacity 800 kv, 6,000 MW HVDC (high voltage direct current) bipole line is being implemented from Bishwanath Chariali (3,000 MW HVDC Station) in Assam to Agra (6,000 MW HVDC Station) in UP via Alipurduar....in West Bengal," he said. A consortium of BHEL
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31," a PGCIL official told reporters here. The total cost involved to erect transmission line from Bishwanath Chariali in Assam to Agra is around Rs 12,000 crore. This will help in transmission of 6,000 MW of electricity, he said. "Any transmission system planned to interconnect North Eastern region with rest of the Indian grid shall have to be of high capacity as it has to pass through the Chicken neck area in Siliguri
ET Correspondent Guwahati, Aug 20
Shortage of staff at Dibrugarh FCI
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Contd. on Page 3
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Bihar package is to launch and finish non-started works: Centre Every scheme is a new work, a new initiative. The Centre on Thursday rejected the criticism blown over it regarding
won. And the gains have come largely at the expense of European service providers. Indian IT firms grew their market share (in contracts awarded) to 27.1% in the January-June period from 23.6% in the first half of last year. TCS, Infosys, Wipro and Tech Mahindra were among those who won deals in excess of $25 million each.
cmyk
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The flood in Assam has taken a very sharp turn, and according to the Assam government over 2 lakh people have been affected in the state. Till date the district of Bongaigaon is the worst hit district where nearly one lakh and 35 thousand people are suffering due to flood. “Roads, bridges, culverts and embankments have been damaged due to flood resulting in snapping of surface communication at several places,” said a senior
official of the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA). Apart from flood, land erosion has also worsened the situation. 45 relief camps have been set up in Kokrajhar, Chirang and Bongaigaon district to shelter over 17,000 flood hit people. Boats have been deployed in rescue and relief works. Food items are being distributed among the affected people. Meanwhile, the Northeast Frontier Railway has cancelled several trains on Thursday as railway tracks were flooded between Bijni and Chaprakata stations.
Also road communications were also affected as the National Highway-31 was flooded at Kasugaon in Kokrajhar district. Hundreds of vehicles were stranded due to flooding. The National Highway passing through Goalpara was also flooded. Road communication was affected between Dudhnoi and Matia. Southwest monsoon is vigorous over Assam and Meghalaya and active over Bihar, West Bengal, Sikkim, Kerala, Karnataka and North East region during past 24 hours. Contd. on Page 4
A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Aug 20
The workers of Hindustan Construction Company (HCC) continued their strike for the second consecutive day. The strike has affected the construction works of Bogibeel Bridge which in turn would further extend the estimated date of project completion in 2017. Since Wednesday around five thousand workers under HCC started their protest against irregular pay of wage. “We are demanding that our pending wages which continue to be due since many months should be cleared. If our demands are not fulfilled within the stipulated time then we will intensify our protest,’’ said a worker of HCC. The work progress of the Bogibeel project has come to a standstill. However, today a discussion was to be held between the management and the workers but due to some reasons the discussion has not taken place. “We are in a dismal condition because since the last five months we have not got our wages in time and when we asked for our wages the contractors told us that Contd. on Page 4
Dibrugarh Gurudwara keeps half a century old tradition alive Avik Chakraborty Dibrugarh, Aug 20
Like in the previous years, this year too, the Shri Guru Singh Sabha Gurudwara, located in the Marwaripatty area here, has observed the sixty first Brahmaputra Ardas Diwas, by offering Prasad to the mighty river Brahmaputra at the culmination of
the 48 hour long non-stop chanting of the verses from the Shri Guru Granth Shahib Ji, also known as Shri Akhand Paath Saheb, beginning on 13th August last. People from all castes, creed and religions participated wholeheartedly in this holy event led by the Sikh community of Dibrugarh. Contd. on Page 4
cmyk
Indian IT companies grow against global competition
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Dhubri, Aug 20: Two cadres of LAEF, Corporal Sodum T Sangma alias Jop and Bigshow; and Saintchecker Sangma surrendered before SP, NGH. Sodum T Sangma surrendered with one AK 47 rifle and two magazines and 30 rounds of live ammunition. Saintchecker T Sangma surrendered with one 9 mm pistol, and one magazine and 6 rounds of live ammunition. (Correspondent)
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2 LAEF cadres surrender
The incessant rains experienced since the last few days have badly affected surface communications in Lohit district. The route connecting district headquarters Tezu
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Sonari, Aug 20: The Maibela camp of the army has informed that all those who intended to get recruited in the army in future can attend an online registration camp to be held at the Maibela camp on Sept. 23 and 24. Registration is mandatory for recruitment in the army. For further details one may contact at the following numbers: 8135858821/ 7896197522/7896331468. (Correspondent)
through the Alubari ghat remained suspended for four days with only limited passengers being ferried across from yesterday.
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Online recruitment in army
Indrajit Tingwa Namsai, Aug 20
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The flood situation is grim in some parts of Jairampur sub division in Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh with the Namchik River and a major stream – the Khatang Nullah – flowing above the danger level. Kento Riba, the additional DC of Jairampur sub division said over telephone that around 70 families have been evacuated from various parts of the sub division and are lodged at a make shift relief camp at Govt. HS School, Jairampur. Laisem Simai,
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Dibrugarh, Aug 20: The 8th Karam Sanmelan of All Assam Tea Tribes’ Students’ Association (ATTSA) Dikom subcommittee in upper Assam’s Dibrugarh district will be held with a two day long programme at Nahortoli tea estate from Aug. 29. This was stated through a press release issued by Montu Robidas, the editor of the souvenir “Kormoti” which will be released on the occasion. (Staff Reporter)
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A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Aug 20
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Karam Sanmelan at Dikom
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Flood situation grim in Jairampur
78 cattle seized Dhubri, Aug 20: BSF seized 78 cattle at Hatirchar and Salapara border village of Dhubri district while the cattle were being pushed to Bangladesh through the porous border of Dhubri district last night. (Correspondent)
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Dhubri, Aug 20: Body of Bhombal Das, 40, a resident of Santinagar of Dhubri town, was recovered by police from the premises of Lower Primary School of the town in the Santinagar today. He was unemployed and was believed to have been unable to bear the mental agony and reportedly committed suicide, residents said. After autopsy, his body was handed over to family members.(Correspondent)
PAGE 2
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21
Filmy story of Bajrangi Bhaijan enacted in Dhubri
AJYCP Margherita Regional Committee to initiate protest in view of dilapidated Margherita-Pengree road ET Correspondent Margherita, Aug 20: Assam Jatiyotabadi Yuba Chattra Parishad (AJYCP) Margherita Regional Committee Adviser, Sanjib Ulup, President Salil Neog and Gen-
eral Secretary Kanchan Bora said on 18th August, 2015 that AJYCP Margherita Regional Committee shall initiate a strong agitation programme at Margherita in view of the dilapidated
condition of the Margherita-Pengree road. Margherita-Pengree is a 26-km connectivity road and it is the lifeline of the Margherita Sub-Division which falls under BuriDehing Mouza. Kanchan
List Of Phone Numbers Of Nursing Homes Tinsukia City Hospital & Research Centre Kabir Mondal Dhubri, Aug 20: A story similar to that of Banrangi Bhaijan, celluloid blockbluster starring Salman Khan and directed by Kabir Khan, has been enacted here in Dhubri district today. The story goes as: A three-and-half year old boy Roni of Bangladesh who unintentionally ended up in the Indian village of Dhubri district on April 11 this year was handed over to his father who came here all the way from Bangladesh to get back his son to Bangladesh from India and this was made possible by an NGO, Nevard (North East Voluntary Association of Rural Development) today. Sayed Nurul Amin, Project Director of Navard narrated the story of the missing of boy, recovery and then finally his handing over to his father, Joynal Uddin of Takimari village from Kerusa-Ferusa village under Phulbari police station of Kurigram district of Bangladesh. The boy Roni went missing while Joynal's family came to Takimari village close to the border in Bangladesh as he accidentally entered into Indian border close to Gaspara of Dhubri district, Amin informed. Amin further informed that when the villagers spotted him in the Indian village, he was rescued by them and handed over to BSF at Gaspara border and subsequently he was again handed over to Dhubri police who produced him in the court of the Chief Judicial Magistrate (CJM) on April 13, and the CJM directed Nevard, which runs child adoption home at its office in Dhubri Church Road, to take custody of the boy. In the meanwhile the address of the boy was traced and contacted by Nevard the father who is a rickshaw-puller in Bangladesh applied for a passport and reached Dhubri yesterday and received his son from the organization in the presence of police today, Amin added. Thus a happy ending of a missing Bangladeshi boy culminated in a reunion with his family.
Guest house inaugurated ET Correspondent Golaghat, Aug 20: A guest house built at Sri Sri Athkheliya Naamghar was inaugurated today. The guest house was built and funded by AGP MLA
Keshav Mahanta. It was inaugurated by the MLA's mother on the occasion of which several AGP leaders including president Atul Bora were present.
Couple found dead with stab wounds in Ambalangoda Colombo, Aug 20:A couple have been found dead with stab wounds inside a house in Ambalangoda, the police media unit said today.The police said that they had received information that the couple had been murdered inside the house last night.The victims were identified as 63 year old
Rajasthan civic polls: PM Modi congratulates BJP workers, leaders New Delhi, Aug 20: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday congratulated the BJP workers and leaders on the party's commendable performance in the Rajasthan civic polls and thanked the people for reposing their faith in the party. "A big thank you to people of Rajasthan. Congrats to Rajasthan BJP workers & leaders on the commendable performance in the civic polls," the Prime Minister tweeted. The BJP emerged victorious in the civic polls, winning 65 out of the 129 seats. The Congress bagged 27 seats, while the Independents won in 17 seats. (ANI)
Category: General Hospital Hospital Address: Gnb Road Near Bujhuri-786125, Assam Pin Code :786125 Phone Number :0374-2333349 Fax :0374-2350026/2339974
Dr.Bawaris Nursing Home Jeevan Jyoti Nursing Home Category: General Hospital Category: General Hospital Hospital Address: Parvathiya Road Hospital Address: Parbatia,Opp Hindi Girls High School-786125, Assam Tinsukia-786125, Assam Pin Code :786125 Pin Code :786125 Phone Number :(0374)2339756 Phone Number :0374-2336319 Fax :0374-2335334 Fax :0374-2350131
Pinewood Hospital Category: General Hospital Hospital Address: Subothoni Road Moniam Dewan Nagra-786125 Pin Code :786125 Phone Number :0374-2300730 Fax :0374-2339730
Help-Line APST BUS SERVICE Ph: 0360-2212338, 0360-2351490 NIGHT SERVICES Name of Routes Departure Distance(km) Bus Fare 1) Itanagar- Shillong ( Daily service) 5:00 pm 510 460/2) Itanagar-Nyapin(Mon, Thu, Sat) 2:00 pm 325 400/3) Itanagar- Aalo (Daily service) 2:30 pm 325 350/4) Itanagar-Daporijo (Daily service from Nlg)12:00 noon 432 470/5) Itanagar - Yingkiong (Alternate day) 01.00 pm 436 550/6) Itanagar - Seppa (Alternate day) 12:00 noon 385 420/7) Itanagar - Khonsa (Sun, mon, wed, thur) 1:00 pm 677 620/8) Itanagar - Namsai (Daily service) 1:00 pm 655 580/9) Itanagar - Koloriang (Alternate day) 2.30 pm 334 400/DAY SERVICE 10) Itanagar - Guwahati (Daily service) 6.00 am 395 350/11) Itanagar - Pasighat (Daily service) 6.00 am 270 250/12) Itanagar - Tirbin (Mon, thu & sat) 5.30 am 328 330/13) Itanagar - Bomdila (Daily except Fri) 6.00 am 346 320/14) Itanagar - Aalo (Daily service) 5.30 am 325 350/15) Itanagar - Sagalee (Sun, Tues & Thur ) 7.30 am 121 135/16) Itanagar - Pakke Kessang (Mon, Wed & Fri)7.00 am 160 200/17) Itanagar-Mengio (sun, tue &Thur) 6.00 am 198 230/18)Itanagar-Kimin/ H-Camp (Daily except Sat)12.00 noon 94 80/19) Itanagar-Gerukhamukh (Daily except Fri)12.00 noon 134 120/20) Itanagar- Balijan (Daily except Sun) 12.30 pm 105 105/21) Itanagar - Sonajuly (Daily except Sun) 01.00 pm 70 80/22) Itanagar - Jote (Daily except Sun) 07.00 am & 01.00 pm 22 30/23) Itanagar- Lakhimpur (Daily Service) 3.30 pm 64 70/-
Sepala Bope Arachchi and Malani Arachchi aged 62.The bodies had been kept inside the house under police protection for the Magisterial inquiry to be conducted today.The couple had a son who was away at a wedding at the time of the incident, the police media unit added. (Agencies)
Bordoloi Avenue, Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh - 786005 Phone Numbers: 0373 - 2302219, 2302225
G M Hospital
Shrishti Hospital & Research Centre Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh - 786 005 Phone: 0373 - 2300024, 2302099
AMC Road, Jalan Nagar Dibrugarh - 786 005
Archana Trauma & Orthopaedics Hospital
Brahmaputra Diagnostics & Hospital
Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh - 786 005 Phone: 0373 - 2302100, 2302099
Near Indian AirLines City Office Paltan Bazar Dibrugarh - 786 005 Phone Numbers: 0373 - 2303476
Assam Medical College
Marwari Arogya Bhawan Hospital Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2302872, 2302051
Graham Bazar, A.T. Road Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2322547
Jalan Nagar, Dibrugarh - 786 002 List of Phones numbers: Emergency Room : 0373 - 2300627 Labour Room: 0373 - 2300022 Drug Deaddiction Centre: 0373 - 2302952 Community Medicine: 0373 - 2302994 RIA Centre: 0373 - 2302093
Sanjivani Diagnostic & Hospital
Dr. Pawan Bajaj's Skin Clinic
Aastha Hospital
Paltan Bazar, Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2303448, 2303458, 2301904
Sankardev Hospital Mancotta Road, Chowkidinghee Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2327717, 2327715, 2326960
local people have made several requests. Margherita Public Work Department is one of the most corrupt department and hence the roads are in dilapidated condition as the materials used for mak-
ing roads at Margherita are of poor quality, alleged Kanchan Bora. AJYCP Margherita Regional Committee is planning to continue to protest till the Margherita-Pengree connectivity road is repaired.
ASTRO FOR YOU Today, you may set out to please your beloved, and maybe even woo him/her all over again. There may be a bit of dissatisfaction regarding friends and relatives, but you can look forward to partying and new friendships this evening. You may feel that you woke up on the wrong side of the bed today. The day is filled with a fair share of jittery moments and lingering worry. Stand firm and remember that every night has a dawn. The law of averages will make your evening more enjoyable. You may discuss certain intimate issues with your sweetheart for the betterment of your relationship. Lady Luck is likely to smile on you. You are generally shy, but today is a different day. You will remain outgoing and will be able to freely express your feelings. This temporary change will do a lot of good to your ego. Those around you have always thought that there is something different about you, but could never put their finger on what exactly it was. You always knew. You are better than them, and today is the day to make them realise that. How? The best course of action is to do your job in the best possible manner. You will be appreciated and may even be seen as a future leader by some of your colleagues. Easy come, easy go — that is the best way to sum up money. Try holding on to it, as there is a strong possibility that you shall incur a lot of wasteful expenditures today. Always think twice before you spend your hard-earned money. Remember the Grasshopper, and learn from the fable, if not the life philosophies of the famous rich men of our age. Start saving something for a rainy day. Sense and sensibilities will prevail today as you address relationships. On the emotional front, you may be unclear and oscillate between what you feel and what you really expected of you. But in the end, you may well end up following your inner voice than depend on others. Your intuition is invincibly strong. There is no end to work, so buckle up, as it is highly probable that work pressure will take up most of your time today. This leaves precious little for your family, but as always, they fully understand. Be both hard-working and conscientious today. You may also launch a new business scheme, especially if you are self-employed. The spectre of financial instability will keep haunting you. But there can be a brighter side to life too. Long overdue payments might get encashed today. And those blind bluffs you call sometimes in business might pay handsome rewards. A tiring day is in store for you today. Find yourself labouring worse than Hercules. The positive outcome would be that you would lose a few extra calories. But late in the day, a nice quiet time with family and friends would relieve you of all the stress. It’s time to party, whether or not you have no reason for it. Friends and even acquaintances will be invited to take part in the celebrations; you will be all charged up to have a blast of a day. For those engaged in business, profits may come but it won’t be the result of the efforts you put in. Any dealings related to real estate and construction will yield good results. As for professionals, bosses and close associates will extend their full support to whatever work you undertake. God helps those who help themselves. You have experienced this plenty of times as your efforts have been paid off. While your colleagues at work may pass negative comments at your work, your boss will not have any complains with you. For investments purposes, real estate and construction seem to be a wise option. In spite of the hardships that you will encounter on your way, your high spirits, enthusiasm and innate confidence will overcome all obstacles. And no matter how troubled the day starts, it ought to end on a cheerful note.
PRASAR BHARATI (India's Public Service Broadcaster) ALL INDIA RADIO : DIBRUGARH (M.W.529.1m/KHz567 F.M. 101.30 MHz)
List of hospitals in Dibrugarh with contact details & phone numbers, Assam Aditya Diagnostics & Hospitals
Bora,General Secretary of AJYCP Margherita Regional Committee said that local constituency Margherita MLA Pradyut Bordoloi during his 17- ear term no development has taken place, although the
Paltan Bazar, Opposite Aditya Hospital Dibrugarh
Phone No.-03732325456 E-mail -dibrugarh@air.org.in Facebook Page-All India Radio Dibrugarh Programme Highlights 21-8-15 (FRIDAY)
5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti 6-30 A.M-Bidyarthir Anusthan (Students' Broadcast) 6-50 A.M-Zikir 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali(Assamese Modern Song) 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi(Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-05 A.M- Antara(Composite Programme of Hindi Film Songs) 12-05 P.M-Live Phone-In Surar Satsori 1-10 P.M-Troops Programme 2-30 P.M-Western Music Programme 3-30 P.M-Deuri Geet by Ranjana Deuri and Party 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishimi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 4-45 P.M-News for Arunachal Pradesh 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 7-15 P.M-Chah-Shramikar Aasor (Tea-Garden Programme) 8-00 P.M-Jeewanar Deegh-Bani (Radio Autobiography)-Interview with Dr. Amalendu Guha, Eminent Social Scientist.Interviewer-Dr. Akhil Ranjan Dutta 10-00 P.M-Classical Music.Artist-Shyamanta Pratim Borkotoky
Dr Damani's Nursing Home Near Circuit House, Dibrugarh Phone: 0373 - 2300928, 2302873
Sd-/H.O.P
PAGE 3
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21
In-service teachers' training under RTE-SSA Zila Mission concludes Aalo, Aug 20: The block level in-service teachers' training programme organized by SSA Zila Mission of West Siang District concluded today. In view of shortage of language, mathematics and science teachers, the major objective of the training was capacity building of teachers
of elementary level to enable them to teach all subjects. Emphasis was laid on constructive approach to teaching Mathematics, EVS, Science and languages at elementary level, activity based method leading to learner centred teaching-learning process, continuous and compre-
hensive evaluation, etc. A team including Shri Gemar Karga, District Pedagogy Coordinator, Shri Bejum Kato, District Community Mobilization cum Media Coordinator, Shri Batel Rimey, District Resource Person and Shri Bhupen Dewan, District Planning Coordinator visited all the
blocks and ensured the effectiveness of the training programme. They also imparted training on various new topics and informed the trainees about the latest relevant developments. The training was imparted with slide shows and Interaction with feedbacks from teachers. (DIPRO)
Tributes paid to victims of Golaghat tragic incident, Adivasi organisation criticises govt ET Correspondent Golaghat, Aug 20: The Golaghat tragic incident that shook the entire nation today completed one year. Today a ceremony was held at Rangajan Samavai Samiti Office under the aegis of BJP Chah Morcha Golaghat District committee and the local people. In the ceremony, tributes were paid to the victims who lost their lives in Uriamghat and Golaghat.
Tributes were paid to Jako Trikey, Birbal Munda, Dilram Kujur, Afrina Toppo, Misa Ekka and Fosoi Orang who lost their lives in police firing in Golaghat. In the ceremony, 12 persons who were injured during the Golaghat incident were felicitated. One Napur Rabidas who was one of the injured stated that he used to worked in Bangalore and on that particular day he came to
Golaghat with a friend. He was waiting for his friend when the incident occurred suddenly a bullet hit him on the face and his jaw was broken into 37 pieces. Another injured Rajeswar Tanti who used to worked as a labourer lost his thumb. State Government announced 5 lac rupees to the deceased and 50 thousand each to the injured but still many of the victims complain that they have not realised
the compensation amount. In the tribute and felicitation ceremony ATTSA leader Nurul Ali alleged that only 20 percent of their demands are fulfilled; also AASA leader Victor Bagh criticized the state government’s role in the Assam-Nagaland border dispute and said that government in one year only did eating, sitting and talking and no serious measures were taken.
Teok badly affected by flood ET Correspondent Teok, Aug 20: Due to the overflowing Bhrahmaputra river a large area within greater Jhanjimukh area of Teok under Jorhat district has been badly affected. More than 10 villages are affected by the flood. The villages like Sumoni Chapori, Hatisal, Sagunpara, Bihari gaon, Bhakat gaon, Moran gaon, etc. are reeling under flood.
Most of the houses and a major part of crop fields including educational institutions are also affected by flood. The flood affected humans and domestic animals have shifted to highlands of the area. Teok circle officer Mr Pranab Jit Kakoti today visited the flood affected areas and gave instructions to the govt officials to take care of the flood affected people.
Sadbhawana Diwas observed on the occasion of 71st Rajiv Gandhi birth anniversary Asom Yuva Parisad (AYP) and AGP members burn the effigy of PM Narendra Modi in protest of alleged deprivation of Deben Buragohain for the post of Managing Director in Brahmaputra Cracker & Polymer Limited (BCPL) in Dibrugarh.Pic - UB
ET Correspondent Guwahati, Aug 20: Assam observed Sadbhawana Divas on the occasion of 71st birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. At a centrally held function at Assam Secre-
tariat Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi administered the pledge to the officials on the occasion. Later, the Chief Minister led the officials of the Secretariat in offering floral tributes to the Prime Minister late Rajiv Gandhi.
Games and sports organised for Tea Garden people ET Correspondent Golaghat, Aug 20: Prayash Development Society organised a one day programme on the eve of Independence Day at Bhuluketting Tea Es-
tate recently. The welcome speech was given by Aroti Rajput. Afterwards, games and sports were organised for the Garden youth, men and women. A football match
Assam CM appeals to the Bench and Bar of Gauhati High Court to amicably resolve present stalemate
ET Correspondent Guwahati, Aug 20: Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi appealed to the Bench and Bar of the Gauhati High Court to resolve the present stalemate in a cordial and amicable manner in the inter-
est of the litigants and the State. In a statement on Wednesday, Gogoi said that the Bench and the Bar of the Gauhati High Court could resolve the stalemate in a cordial and amicable manner in the interests of the State.
was inaugurated by Deepandita Dworah played between Borkatonee Tea Estate and Bhuluketting Tea Estate in which Borkotonee won 1-0. The meritorious
students were awarded with certificate and gift. Secretary Partho Protim Rajput gave vote of thanks. Parikhit Bora was also present on the occasion.
Key NDFB militant apprehended in joint Police-CRPF operation ET Correspondent Guwahati, Aug 20: In a major breakthrough, a militant of the NDFB (Songbijit), identified as Saranjoy Musahary, a suspect in the massacre of 80 tribals in Kokrajhar last year, was apprehended by a joint team of police and CRPF from Patabari in lower Assam's Chirang district. Saranjoy alias Soukhou of Gajenpuri was apprehended from Patabari by a joint team of Assam Police and CRPF's
Cobra battalion, IGP L R Bishnoi said. He is suspected to be involved in the massacre of over 80 'adivasis' in Lungsung forest area in Kokrajhar district in December last year, Bishnoi said. A grenade was recovered from the extremist trained in the insurgent camps based in Myanmar. Bishnoi said Musahary had joined NDFB(S) in 2012 and belonged to the 37th batch of the underground outfit.
A flooded area in Guijan in Tinsukia district of upper Assam. Pic - Arjun Mishra
Arunachal legislative assembly speaker Nabam Rebia irked by defamatory Facebook post Contd. from Page 1 of Bangladeshi Miya in Arunachal Pradesh’ which has maligned his official capacity as the speaker of LA and has affected his personal reputation. Rebia also informed that Rekam in his post
has claimed that more than hundred Bangladeshis were brought to the state as labour for his ongoing multi crore civil construction work at Poma, Itanagar. He challenged Rekam to prove that he has done any contractual work of even Rs 1 worth
in the past or present by misusing his official capacity. He added that the court has taken cognizance of the case and has issued summons to Rekam directing his appearance before the court and that he has been directed to file written statement.
Further, Rebia informed that he had directed principal secretary (Home) for strict implementation of cyber crime laws in the state, and informed that the Police Headquarters, Itanagar is the authorized authority to take cognizance of such cyber crime activities.
IPR Dept on a drive to exploit social media for information dissemination Contd. from Page 1 The commitment is to carry out task with integrity and judiciousness, courtesy and understanding, objectivity and transparency. With transformation, digitalization and developments in information technology, especially through social media and its impact and increased coverage ratio they are becoming increasingly popular and therefore has become critical tools of information dissemination. There is an increasing trend towards
using social media tools and the department of IPR is not lagging behind in making the best use of all important social media tools to disseminate information to wider audiences, interact with the public, and monitor social media networks.Under the governments’ GOAL initiatives, the department has taken a major stride in maximum utilization of both existing information tools of the department besides social media tools such as Twitter, Facebook and Whatsapp to provide seamless information services to
all.The members in the Facebook account of Arunachal Ipr and “The Arunachal Information” group within a very short span has reached to 900+ and in days to come the number is expected to grow more. Similarly, the members in Twitter a c c o u n t @ArunachalDIPR of the Department of IPR is increasingly growing. Also, the members in The Whatsapp account of “The Arunachal Information” has reached its maximum limit and efforts are on the anvil to create additional sites in Whatsapp group to ac-
commodate growing number of members by the name of The Arunachal Information 2. Social media is becoming an integral part of life online as social websites and applications proliferate and the Department of IPR is using them best to keep the social masses updated to latest and current news, advertisement and policies of the government in the fingertips of the users. The response of this step of the department is quiet encouraging which can be gauzed from growing enthusiasm of members from all sections of life. (DIPRO)
Incessant rains affect surface communication in Lohit Contd. from Page 1 Vehicular crossing is still suspended as the brimming Lohit river is too risky informed a person involved
in the ghat operations. However, the route through Parasuram Kund remains open in spite of blockades now and then though the flow of traffic is thin. Meanwhile the BRTF has
kept machineries at vulnerable points to clear the blockades caused by slides as soon as possible and keep the road serviceable. Both the routes are also a lifeline for the mountain-
ous and border district, Anjaw. The disruption in road communications is an annual woe of the people living in this part of the state, come every rainy season.
Flood situation grim in Jairampur Contd. from Page 1 the MLA of Jairampur, Kento Riba, ADC, Jairampur, HODs of various government departments and some local businessmen
remained busy the entire day in rescue and relief operations of the flood affected people. “We have already started providing dry ration and other essential items to the camp inmates”, Riba
said. He also informed that four families from the Assam side too have been lodged at the camp as the Margherita sub divisional administration in upper Assam’s Tinsukia district is yet to pro-
vide any relief to the flood affected people in Assam. The situation might worsen if it continues to rain, Riba informed stating that the administration is fully prepared to tackle the situation.
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Sushanta Roy Diphu, Aug 20: A large part of Baithalangso area of Hamren subdivision (now western Karbi Anglong district) has been inundated by the overflowing Borpani River; affected areas are Baithalangso proper, Tisso village, Das village, No 1 and No 3, and North part of Hongkram, Amdubi, Borsali, Kharupindha, Borlangphar, Umru, Longra, North Latumari, Long Jap, Amguri, Rupatciti, Longbai, Daplang, Dalani, Lingding,
Bihanru, Chapmara, Ajar gaon, Dewa guri, Rihajan, Garo gaon, Gara guri, BorbilKhar gaon, Rongthar may, Kachua and Sing Mari. Incessant rainfall since the last 48 hours in neighbouring Meghalaya and in the catchments of Borpani and its major and minor tributaries have submerged the whole area however the situation has not taken a worse turn as of now unlike last year. “Our actual apprehension is not with the rivers on the swell but the accumulating water inside
the barrage of the 100 Mega Watt capacity Karbi Langpi hydro electric project, its only 20 kilometre away located at a considerable elevation; last year on August 14 and September 29 the authority of the project released massive amount of surfeit water from the barrage without any warning. The successive release of water without pre warning wreaked havoc in the area, inundating large paddy cultivation, plantation of Bettle Nut and leaf, pepper, lemon, turmeric, ginger, seism,
jut, etc.; large private ponds and marshy lands were washed away where very large quantities of fish were stored for harvesting; all was lost due to unrestrained release of water,” said a local resident of Baithalangs who incurred huge damage last year owing to the flood. People of Baithalangso and other flood affected areas have appealed to the authority to release excess water from the barrage with caution so that the devastation of last year doesn’t get repeated.
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DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21
Educational institutions march towards tobacco free tag A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Aug 20: Educational institutions in Assam are steadily marching towards attaining the tobacco free tag with about 70 per cent institutions of as many as 15 districts of the State having been able to fulfill the target set for them by the Education Department. An official instruction was issued by the Education Department to all heads of educational institutions (Principals, Head Masters, Head Mistress/Registrars) to comply with the prescribed criteria for tobacco free educational institutions and submit the status report on the same along with the self-declaration at the earliest, to the concerned district and state officials. The Assam
Vehicle theft at Dimapur Referral Hospital Sushanta Roy Diphu, Aug 20: Thievery of vehicle transporting patients from Assam to the prominent medical centres of Dimapur, the facility hub of medication and treatment of Nagaland has immensely troubled the people of Karbi Anglong who choose Dimapur as a favoured destination in this regard. Shymol Mazumdar owner of a Bolero SUV (No. AS09B0012) of Diphu, Karbi Anglong who went to Referral Hospital of Dimapur on Tuesday last to admit a serious patient had to return without the vehicle. “I just went inside to help the stretcher bearers to drop the patient in the OPD and came back within 10 minutes and found that my vehicle has vanished,” said Shymol Mazumdar, the vehicle owner. A case has been registered by Mazumdar at Dhansiri Par police station of Dimapur on that day. It may be mentioned here that this is the fourth vehicle theft from the Dimapur Referral Hospital.
THE CRITERIA FOR TOBACCO FREE EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION TAG ARE • Display of “Tobacco free education institution” board at a prominent place on the boundary wall outside the main entrance. • Display of mandatory signage stating “Sale of tobacco products is prohibited within 100 yards radius of this educational institution” at a prominent spot near the main gate and on boundary wall of school/institute. • No smoking or chewing of tobacco inside the premises of institution by students/teachers/other staff members/visitors.
Government also constituted two committees one at the district level and another at the state level to look after the activities of the educational institutions in respect of achieving the target of the tobacco free institution tag. Following the instruction, the inspectors of schools (member secretary of the district committee for declaring tobacco free edu-
cation institutions) called for the self declaration reports from the institutions along with evidence in respect of tobacco free tag. “More than 70 percent of schools in our district is tobacco free and we have discussed with all the principals of the schools to take necessary action in case they found anyone consuming tobacco prod-
ucts in the school premises. We have disused with the students of the schools about the ill effects of tobacco. We are now in the process of compiling the self declaration reports and will soon send the district declaration on tobacco free status to the Education Department,” said Tilok Chandra Saikia, inspector of school, Dibrugarh. Similarly, educational institutions in the districts of Golaghat, Dhemaji, Morigaon, Jorhat, Lakhimpur, Kamrup (Metro), Dhubri Darrang, Bongaigaon, Hailakandi and others are also in the process of compiling the self declaration reports received from the institutions which will be very soon sent to the Education Department along with district declaration report.
TAYPA holds sit in demanding ST status
AASU state GS Lurinjyoti Gogoi flag off a NRC awarness rally which was organised under the banner of Sivasagar district unit of AASU. Pic - Firuz Ahmed
Lakhimpur District AGP publicity secretary resigns, several leaders hatch plan to join BJP ET Correspondent Lakhimpur, Aug 20: At a time when the regional political party Asom Gana Parishad has planned to strengthen the organisational base at the grassroots level statewide, a wave of resignation within the party has rocked the internal atmosphere of the Lakhimpur district body of the party. It is to be noted that the regional nationalistic party of Assam has comprehensively failed to
Assam reeling under twin problems of flood and erosion: ASDMA Contd. from Page 1
ET Correspondent Sonari, Aug 20: The Charaideo district committee of Tai Ahom Youth Parishad, Assam (TAYPA) today organized a sit in, here, demanding Schedule Tribe (ST) status for the Tai Ahom community of Assam. Around 200 youths took part in the 2 hour long demonstration organized by the organization with instructions from the central committee at the Lachit Udyan premises. Luhit Gogoi, the Working President of the central committee while speaking on the
occasion analysed how the Tai Ahom community in Assam have been politically, economically and socially deprived for several decades now. He also demanded that the Centre must initiate concrete steps to accord ST status to the Tai Ahom community before the 2016 state assembly elections and the state government too must provide adequate assistance in this regard. Several other leaders including Brigu Hatimuria, the President of the Charaideo district committee of TAYPA, Bijoy Rajkonwar, the Working
President and Pranab Jyoti Saikia, Joint Secretary spoke on the occasion. The activists also raised slogans in support of ST status for the community. At the end of the demonstration, the organization also sent a memorandum to the Prime Minister of India through the Charaideo district administration demanding early fulfillment of their demands. Copies of the memorandum has also been sent to the Home Minister, union tribal affairs minister, the Registrar General of India and the Chief Minister of India.
Short Docu-feature on nature released ET Correspondent Jorhat, Aug 20: A short docu-feature on nature ‘Samogro Dhoritri Houk Seujia’ by Samir Roy was released recently by state PWD minister Ajanta Neog, here. Produced in the loving memory of former Press advisor of Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi Late. Deba Kumar Bora under the banner of ‘The Event’, - a sociocultural organization of Jorhat, the planning and concept is by Roy. Jorhat DC V.V.Solanki and SP Amanjeet Kaur, Biman Hazarika was also present during the programme. The short docu-feature, production of which is aimed at conservation of nature and to promote people for plantation will be available through FM radio, Cable TV, VCD as well as through YouTube, Roy informed.
MeT department has predicted extremely heavy rainfall would occur over Assam and Meghalaya. Heavy to very heavy rainfall would occur at a few places over West Bengal, Sikkim, Bihar and Arunachal Pradesh. It also said, heavy rainfall would occur at Himachal Pradesh, Uttrakhand, Coastal Karnataka, Kerala and North East region.
6,000-MW Assam-Agra transmission line to be commissioned by August-end Contd. from Page 1
The very nature of control power flow of the HVDC interconnection provides additional flexibility in grid operation thereby improving various grid parameters, he said. The link will act as a highway from North-Eastern region to rest of the country and will play a significant role in the hydro potential in the (North-Eastern) parts as well as lead to socio-economic development of India as a whole and the region in particular.
A small share of NGEF goes to Green energy sector Jamshedpur, Aug 20: The renewable energy sector has got only a fifth of the funds that have been collected through a cess (a form of a carbon tax) levied on coal. Only a small portion of the National Clean Energy Fund (NGEF) has been made available for renewable energy projects. “Total amount allocated to MNRE (Ministry of New and Renewable Energy) to date is just 19 per cent of funds collected,” according to a report of Mercom Capital, a global clean energy consulting firm. A major portion of the funds collected through the cess is not reaching MNRE, and, consequently, clean energy
GREEN PROJECTS NOT GETTING THEIR DUE
· Total amount allocated to MNRE to date is just 19 per cent of funds collected · A major portion of the funds collected through the cess is not reaching MNRE, and, consequently, clean energy projects · Almost 60 per cent of collected cess funds have not been transferred to NCEF
and only 43 per cent of the transferred funds have been allocated to MNRE · The Central government is expected to have a cumulative amount of Rs.32,206 crore by the end of this fiscal. Out of which, Rs.13,616 crore would be transferred to NCEF. But, the total allocation to MNRE is estimated at Rs.5,983 crore · In the last two years, about 55 per cent of the NCEF fund allocation has gone to MNRE while 45 per cent has been allocated to river cleaning and miscellaneous projects
projects. Almost 60 per cent of collected cess funds have not been transferred to NCEF and only 43 per cent of the transferred funds have been allocated to MNRE. The Central government is expected to have a cumulative amount of Rs.32,206 crore by the end of this fiscal. Out of which, Rs.13,616 crore would be transferred to NCEF. But, the total allocation to MNRE is estimated at Rs.5,983 crore. Thus, total funds allocated to MNRE to date would be just 19 per cent of funds collected. Offtaker credibility and pay-
ments to developers on time are among the most common and primary risks quoted by banks. With almost $3 billion sitting in the NCEF funds, the government can use these funds to create a ‘reserve backstop fund’ against non-payments that will stimulate much needed capital for projects. “Collecting taxes towards clean energy projects and not using it is detrimental to the industry,” it pointed out. In the last two years, about 55 per cent of the NCEF fund allocation has gone to MNRE while 45 per cent has been allocated to river cleaning and miscellaneous projects. (Agencies)
gain the confidence of the voters of the state in several elections in the past. Therefore in view of the forthcoming state assembly elections, the party has been attempting to establish bridges with the common people in order to win their confidence. Despite such crucial attempts, a host of leaders and dignataries of Lakhimpur district body of AGP have hatched plans to resign from the party. Some of
them have also planned to join the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Many of them recently met Sarbananda Sonowal, the MP of Lakhimpur cum the Union minister while he was on tour in the district. It is known that in this regard they will hold negotiations with the Union Minister on September 22 and formally join the saffron brigade. On the other hand, Achinta Borah, the district
publicity secretary today resigned from the party and he informed it to the media. In addition, due to internal conflict in the party several dignitaries of Lakhimpur LAC committee of the party have been staying aloof from the organizational activities. With regard to this, the behaviour of Utpal Dutta, the existing AGP MLA is alleged to be the driving factor though he denied it.
70,000 people and 3,900 hectares of crop land affected in Assam in second wave of floods Contd. from Page 1 The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) said 4,315 floodhit people in Kokrajhar district have been shifted to nine temporary relief camps. Dhemaji, Kokrajhar, Bongaigaon, Chirang and Lakhimpur districts have been hit by the current wave of floods. The first wave of floods in June had affected more than 1.5 lakh people in the state. Over 52,000 of those affected are from the worst-hit Bongaigaon district where 59 villages and localities have
been inundated. The ASDMA has issued flash flood alerts for several low-lying and densely-populated areas of the city, including Anil Nagar, Nabin Nagar, Tarun Nagar, Ganeshguri, Hatigaon and Dispur, due to overflowing of the local drainage system. Similar alerts of low to moderate floods in the next 24 to 48 hours have been issued for Barpeta, Baksa, Chirang, Bongaigaon, Nalbari, Kamrup (Rural), Dhemaji, Lakhimpur, Sonitpur and Jorhat districts. The ASDMA said the Brahmaputra, Ji Bharali and Beki rivers are flowing above the danger level at Nematighat
in Jorhat, Sonitpur and Barpeta,respectively. The Met department said available data indicates that the southwest monsoon has been vigorous over Assam and Meghalaya and active over Arunachal Pradesh Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura in the past 24 hours. The Met department warning said, "Heavy to very heavy rainfall will occur in a few places on August 18 and 19 and there will be heavy rainfall at isolated places over Arunachal Pradesh on August 20. Heavy rain will occur in isolated places over Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura on August 20, 21 and 22."
Flood wreaks havoc in Upper Assam Contd. from Page 1 rain water submerged 25 villages in the district and the people are taking shelter in schools. The entire Barekuri area under Tinsukia district has gone under water. Goriating, Hatibandh, Mutapung villages are mostly affected due to flood. Dibru Saikhowa National Park has been affected in the flood and 80 per cent of the park has gone under water and the animals are taking shelter in the highland areas. Under Dibru Saikhowa the villages which are mostly affected are Laika, Dodhia and Panbari. The water which has entered the Dibru Saikhowa National park has come from the Arunachal Pradesh side. The District ad-
ministration of Tinsukia has declared high alert and the administration has ordered all the officials to take stock of the flood situation and report regularly. “The administration has been working 24 hours round the clock to check the flood situation and till now we have not given any relief but if necessary we will definitely provide relief to the people,’’ said an official. In Dibrugarh the water level of the Brahmaputra river is rising above the danger level. The past highest record was 106.48 metre which was recorded on September 3, 1998. Now it has risen to 105.96 metre. The ferry services have been affected due to rising level of the water and the people who frequently visit the other districts through water ways are hav-
ing to face big problems. The main ghats viz Bogibeel ghat, Panbari ghat are mostly affected. The ferry service has been closed for the last three days, “I am a frequent traveler by ferry services and I have to depend on ferry service because I have to go to Dhemaji. But due to the close down of the ferry services I have to take other winding routes which consumes more time,’’ Anil Saikia, a resident of Dhemaji said. In Lakhimpur due to constant rains for the last few days the rain water has submerged many villages and the people are moving towards the safer places. The rivers Subansiri, Ranganadi, Dikrong, Kakoi, Pabho, Scasa-Pichala, Durpang Singara are rising above the danger level.
Strike continues at Bogibeel project Contd. from Page 1 within a few weeks the wages would be cleared,’’ an angry protester said. The project which was inaugurated by Atal Bihari Vajpayee the then prime minister of India on 2002; a deadline was also fixed for the completion of the project. But, unfortunately the project has been over running deadline after deadline. Due to the sluggish nature of the work the cost escalated up to 5,000 crore rupees but when
the project was started the cost was estimated at 1767 crore rupees. “The pace of work at the project site is sluggish, and at this rate it cannot complete by 2017,’’ said Rubul Das, a resident of Bogibeel. “When we have come here to work the management has assured timely payment but after twelve hours of work from 8 am to 8 pm the contractors forced us to work overtime. But after working overtime the company doesn’t give us the extra allowances,’’ said an agitated protester. “The bridge has strategic importance but
non-completion of the project on time is a matter of serious concern. However, on the other side, a bridge which is being constructed from Dholla to Sadiya for better connectivity, the work has been going on very fast,’’ said Mukul Sharma, a citizen of Dibrugarh. The people of Dibrugarh and Arunachal Pradesh are waiting anxiously for the project to be completed but only time will tell when the people of both Assam and Arunachal Pradesh can realise their dream project.
Dibrugarh Gurudwara keeps half a century old tradition alive Contd. from Page 1 ‘This event has a very prominent place in the history of Dibrugarh’, said Sardar Malwinder Singh, President of the Shri Guru Singh Sabha Gurudwara. A pious man with an open mind, full of love and respect for people all religions, Sardar Malwinder Singh explained, ‘This is a clear example, how a deep faith in the Almighty can times save the lives of many.’ A peep into the history of Dibrugarh reveals that after a major chunk of this premier township of eastern India had already been swallowed by the
mighty river Brahmaputra during the devastating floods of 1954, which also included the Govt. Boys’ Higher Secondary School building, parts of the Bezbarua park, part of the Gurudwara itself etc., the then Deputy Commissioner of Dibrugarh announced, ‘When the Brahmaputra touches the AT road, the town will have to be evacuated.’ Then it was proposed in a meeting called by the Gurudwara Management Committee that the Gurudwara, which was situated by side of the AT Road towards the Brahmaputra, needed to be dismantled and the material retrieved so that it could be built again at a
safer place later on. In the said meeting itself, Sardar Dhana Singh, lovingly and respectfully referred to as Babaji, suggested that there should be Shri Akhand Paath, that is, ceremonial non-stop chanting of verses of the Shri Guru Granth Sahib Ji, which was then organized and the Prasad offered to the mighty Brahmaputra. Needless to say, flood water started receding and for the next six decades now, the river did not change the boundary of the town till date. Beginning 1954, this holy event has been organized each year in the name of Brahmaputra Ardas Diwas.
PAGE 5
REGION
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21
Bihar package is to launch and finish non-started works: Centre New Delhi, Aug 20: Every scheme is a new work, a new initiative. The Centre on Thursday rejected the criticism blown over it regarding the 1.25 lakh crore package which is nothing but rehash of existing schemes. The Centre said it involves major additional outlays beyond the normal flow of central funds in which every scheme is a new work. Necessary provisions for the schemes will be included in the budgets in the coming years, highly placed sources said, contradicting claims that no source of funding has
CM: Lal Thanzara is innocent and is ready for a probe
Aizawl, Aug 20: In an attempt to defend his brother, Mizoram CM Lal Thanwala said that he is "innocent" and if needed his brother is even ready for a probe. Mizoram Governor Lt Gen (Retd) Nirbhay Sharma on Wednesday accepted the resignation of Minister of State for Health Lal Thanzara against whom allegations have been slapped of being involved in the latest "office of profit" scam and also accused by opposition parties of holding 4.76 lakh shares (21 percent) in Sunshine Overseas,a construction company. Describing the allegations against his younger brother as "false and baseless", the Chief Minister told reporters, "Lal Thanzara resigned to prove his innocence and to show that he dared to be probed. " The Chief Minister said that holding shares in a company by a legislator or a minister was "not illegal". The Speaker, now in New Delhi would make the decision after returning to Aizawl on Saturday. When asked whether another minister would be sworn in to replace Lal Thanzara, Lal Thanhawla said that it would be decided by the party leaders. He also said that his younger brother would contest in the event of by-election being held in the latter's constituency if the Congress leaders decided that he should contest. Sports Minister Zodintluanga, Planning Board Vice Chairman H. Liansailova and Minister of State for Enivironment and Forests Lalrinmawia Ralte accompanied Lal Thanhawla in the press meet. The Congress leaders said that they pleaded with Lal Thanzara not to resign "but to no avail as he wanted to clear his name". (Agencies)
The central government asserted that the package is "a very specific and detailed list of works and not a vague collection of financial outlays" with each and every element identified and costed. About the timelines, the sources said the time period for the package varies from item to item. Some may be implemented in a shorter period of time of 1-2 years while others may take longer.
been identified nor budgetary provisions made in the package an-
nounced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The sources also allayed fears
that the huge package would lead to fiscal deficit, saying the proposed
expenditure will be in the nature of capital expenditure that will improve productivity and produce high rate of economic return. "The commitment in the package is to launch and finish the non-started works," the sources said. The central government asserted that the package is "a very specific and detailed list of works and not a vague collection of financial outlays" with each and every element identified and costed. About the timelines, the sources said the time period for the package varies from item to item.
Some may be implemented in a shorter period of time of 1-2 years while others may take longer. "The commitment in the package is to provide funding for completion of the project in the stipulated period. The tax incentives for employment generation have already come into effect. It is for the state government to attract manufacturers and create jobs," they said. The expenditure in the package will be partly from the central budget and partly from public sector undertakings, the sources said. (Agencies)
ISIS threats demanding jobs and housing in Bihar Munger, Aug 20: ISIS in Bihar!! Scam or is it really planning to unravel its terror of hacking and slaughtering in Nitish Lalu's Bihar? A top Bihar official on Thursday received a threat letter in the name of militant group ISIS which among other demands sought immediate clearance of waiting list of housing scheme and job in Accounts section, leading it to being dealt as the handiwork of some local persons, even as the official's security was enhanced. Munger Commissioner Lyon Kunga today received the threat letter in the name of ISIS which also sought Rs 50 lakh for the outfit. The letter which does not have name and place of the sender, was received by post. A copy of it was also
found pasted on the wall of the Commissioner's official residence, Deputy Inspector General of Police S P Shukla told the media. Following this, a meeting of
Ray of hope in Manipur as JCILPS comes to an agreement with the govt.
Shillong, Aug 20: With the recent flow of protests resulting in the loss of lives,people getting badly injured, damage of properties which as a whole brought a complete halt to the normal schedule of the state is somewhat taking a rest as the The Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS) has reached upon a conformity with the government of Manipur in a meeting held in Imphal on Wednesday. The JCILPS which is spearheading the movement for implementation of inner line permit system in Manipur had a joint meeting with the government of Manipur at chief ministers secretariat hall. Speaking to the media soon after the meeting, Kh Ratan, convenor (in charge) of JCILPS said that Wednesday's meeting with the government was positive. The government has agreed to include the five major points raised by JCILPS to safeguard the rights of the indigenous people of Manipur in the draft Bill, he said. After the convention, JCILPS will put forward the resolutions to the government of Manipur later in the evening, Ratan said. A joint statement signed by M Yaiskul Meitei, Special secretary (Home) government of Manipur and Kh Ratan convener (in charge) JCILPS, was also handed out to the media after the meeting. According to the statement, the meeting jointly agreed in principle for inclusion of the five major demands of JCILPS regarding protection of rights of indigenous people. To a question regarding the body of Sapam Robinhood still lying at the morgue of the Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences, who was killed in police action on July 8 last during the agitation for implementation of ILPS, Ratan said the matter was not discussed in Wednesday's meeting. The meeting was attended by chief minister Okram Ibobi Singh, his cabinet members along with top officials of the government of Manipur. (Agencies)
senior officers including DIG, District Magistrate Amrendra Kumar Singh and Superintendent of Police Barun Sinha was held with Kunga. The letter sought Rs
50 lakh for the outfit as well immediate clearance of waiting list of Indira Awas Yojna and recruitment in Accounts section, the DM said. After the
meeting, the officials came to the conclusion that it appeared to be the handiwork of some local persons, the Commissioner and SP said. The letter pasted on the wall of the entrance of the Commissioner's residence drew the attention of the guards today morning who reported it to the Commissioner. Kunga said he had been working in Bihar for the past 30 year and has always cared for welfare of the citizens. Though officials dismissed the letter as being done by some abnormal person, security for the Commissioner was enhanced with deployment of more policemen, the SP said, adding that "we are investigating into the matter," to find the sender of the letter. (Agencies)
Disaster training programme in Sikkim Gangtok, Aug 20: A six week Basic Disaster Management Training for Sikkim State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) flagged off today. The programme was organised by Sikkim Police and LR&DMD which will be conducted by Six Team Personal of NDRF, MHA. The main aim of this programme is to train the youths in tackling disaster
ridden situation which is quiet a common site seen in the region. The recent landslide havoc that took the lives of many and occurrence of earthquake tremors felt mostly in the region in a way gave the generation of the training session to train and equip them to face natural sisasters.Additional Director General of Police, Sangay Dorjee Bhutia was
invited as the Chief Guest of the event. The programme was also attended by SSP South and West , SP Home Guard, SDPO Jorethang, SHO Nayabazar, SDM Jorethang and Soreng ,BDO Jorethang and Soreng, ADM West , other officers of Police Department and IRBn jawans at M.T Hall 2nd IRBn HQ Pipaley West Sikkim. (Agencies)
Govt orders 2-day shutdown of schools in WGH Meghalaya district
Shillong, Aug 20: The Meghalaya government on Wednesday asked all schools in West Garo Hills district to remain shut for the next 48 hours for the safety of school going children as heavy rainfall has triggered flood and landslips in the state. The order came after a nine year-old school girl was swept in the surging Ganol River in Asibra area of the district headquarters last evening, Deputy Commissioner Pravin Bakshi told a news agency. While the search is on for the missing girl, the district disaster management authority reviewed the situation today, he said. The order was also issued in view of the IMD warning of heavy to extremely heavy rainfall extending up to August 23-24. "As a matter of abundant precaution, all schools - Lower Primary, Upper Primary, Secondary or Higher Secondary - public or private schools, shall be closed,"
Bakshi said in an order. According to the district administrator, in many cases school going children travel some kms to reach school and are prone to accidents and may be victims of surging rivers and streams, landslides and landslips. In some areas, school buildings were reported to be unsafe and advisories were being sent to all the schools, including private schools, to that effect from the education department. Bakshi said that a safety audit had indicated that many schools in West Garo Hills were highly vulnerable and prone to disasters in the event of continuous rains. Meanwhile, flood warnings have been issued by the State Emergency Operations Centre and IMD and people of at least 10 low lying villages in the district have been asked to move to higher and safer grounds. All district officials and BDOs, police and medical personnel have also been alerted, Bakshi said. (Agencies)
2 NSCN (K) cadres detained Dimapur, Aug 20: The 18 Assam Rifles along with police representatives apprehended two armed NSCN (K) cadres in the wee hours of August 15 last and recovered assault rifle/pistol and huge quantity of ammunition. In a delayed press release, PRO Assam Rifles identified the apprehended cadres as 'ss' Private Muvoiso Chakesang alias Vireto (28), son of Jakhovi of Khvja village, Phek and 'ss' Private Noknglm Anok
(23), son of Nokpoh of Sangsa village, Mon. During the search, one AK-47 Rifle with bayonet and magazine, one 7.65mm pistol with magazine and 85 assorted live bullets were recovered from their possession. The AR PRO said during spot questioning, it came to light that the two cadres had defected to NSCN (K), with an intention to inflict anti national activity/sabotage against Indian Security Forces and Government institutions. (Agencies)
Gurung, Chamling plan Sikkim meeting on Hill ST demands Darjeeling, 20 Aug: Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) and Gorkha Jan Mukti Morcha (GJMM) chief Bimal Gurung on Wednesday said that he will be visiting Sikkim on 23 August for a meeting with chief minister Pawan Chamling to discuss the inclusion of 11 Gorkha communities in the Schedule Tribes (ST) list. "I have a meeting with the chief minister of Sikkim, Pawan Kumar Chamling regarding the grant of tribal status to 11 Gorkha communities, for which I will be going to Gangtok on 23 August," Gurung
said, adding, "The GTA has already raised this issue with union ministers and Chamling too has been working on it." Gurung was speaking in a press meet at the GJMM party office in Patlebash on Wednesday. It may be mentioned that a GTA delegation led by Gurung and Darjeeling MP SS Ahluwalia had met the union minister of tribal affairs, Jual Oram in Delhi for the same on 10 August. After the meeting, Gurung had said the tribal minister had given them "a positive hearing"'and had called for a meeting with the ministry of tribal
affairs, registrar general of India and GTA in Delhi, to discuss the modalities for including the communities in the ST list, later in September. Gurung also said that he will be leaving for Delhi and Vindhaychal for his pre-planned pilgrimage after the 23 August meeting, due to which he will not be able to meet chief minister Mamata Banerjee, while she visits Darjeeling on 24 August. "However, the GTA delegation will be there to welcome her. Deputy chief of GTA, Col Ramesh Alley will also speak on the Clean and
Green Project, to be held on 24 August in Chowrastha," Gurung said. When asked about the transfer of the land and land reforms department by the state to the GTA,Gurung said that he welcomes the decision, but he himself has not seen any notification yet and that a thorough study of the notification is yet to be conducted. It may be mentioned that a notice was sent to the Darjeeling district magistrate and GTA principal secretary regarding the transfer of the land department. "If the transfer of the services of the land and land re-
forms department is not done properly, we might have to take up the issue to court. We respect the GTA accord." Meanwhile, 200 households belonging to Dotre and 45 families from the Balashan area in Darjeeling switched to the GJMM today. Deepak Pradhan, former TMC leader said that with 245 TMC households switching to the GJMM from Rangbull Dotre constituency, there are no TMC supporters left in that constituency anymore. Gurung welcomed the new GJMM members and spoke about working in unity to achieve their primary goal of separate statehood. (Agencies)
CPI-Maoist says committed 'mistakes' during Lalgarh stir Kolkata, Aug 20: The banned CPI (Maoist) has said it committed "mistakes" during the Lalgarh movement by killing people and removing their bodies covertly and said that it had wrongly believed that Trinamool Congress would withdraw joint forces from Jangalmahal after coming to power in the state. In a six-page review report of the so called central committee of its eastern bureau, a copy of which is available to the media, the
Naxalite outfit said, "We had a belief that if the CPI-M is defeated, then the joint forces will be withdrawn and all political prisoners released, but we were wrong." The ruling Trinamool Congress termed it as a "propaganda" by the Maoists while the CPI(Marxist) claimed that "Maoists are spilling the beans" as the developmental promises have not been fulfilled. According to the document, the Maoists acknowledged that they had
committed mistakes during the Lalgrah movement in Jangalmahal by killing people and removing their bodies covertly. The Maoists' admission of mistakes came at a time when there are reports that the ultras were trying to stage a comeback in Jangalmahal after a hiatus of four years since the death of CPI (Maoist) politburo member Kishenji in November, 2011. A senior CRPF officer told the media, "There has been a surge in their activities in
the past six months. We have specific reports of their movements, both individually and in small groups, especially in Binpur, Lalgarh, and parts of Purulia," The officer said on the condition of anonymity that the joint forces comprising personnel of the CRPF and West Bengal police were conducting raids in the forest areas of West Midnapore, Bankura and Purulia districts in Jangalmahal. Countering the CPI (Maoist)'s charge
of being misled, TMC MP Suvendu Adhikari, however, alleged that Maoists were trying to mislead the masses. "The Maoists have been completely isolated because of the developmental work the state government has done and the political movement the party has organised against them. They are now trying to mislead the masses but the people won't get swayed by their false propaganda," Adhikari said. (Agencies)
Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma distributes Agar wood saplings to registered farmers during the launch of Agar & Bamboo plantation scheme at Betasing in South West Garo Hills of Meghalaya. Pic - UB Photos
PAGE 6
NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21
Pacific island countries are key factors in India's Deeply pained and distressed: extended 'Act East' policy, President Pranab Mukherjee Ravi Shankar Prasad "Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar did not thank the centre for the special package announced for the state." New Delhi, Aug 20: Communications and Information Technology Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad on Thursday said he was "deeply pained and distressed" that Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar did not thank the centre for the special package announced for the state."Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a special (Rs.1.25
lakh crore) package for Bihar. It is a matter of deep distress...I am deeply pained that Nitish Kumar has not thanked the prime minister for the historical package," Ravi Shankar Prasad told the media after a briefing on the decisions taken by the union cabinet. "The Bihar chief minister had been asking for a package for the state for two
years. All Biharis are now happy," he said adding that Nitish Kumar had asked for a special category status for Bihar on Wednesday. The minister said that 21 districts of Bihar, which were recommended by the state government, would get extra allowances for setting up industries. "This is special category status. If he (Nitish Kumar) would have read this, then he would have understood," Ravi Shankar Prasad said. "Modi is not playing politics on the special package. The special package for Bihar is the manifestation of the prime minister's wish to ensure the growth of Bihar. This is part of his larger scheme to make eastern India developed," he added. (Agencies)
A low intensity minor blast: Saket Court New Delhi, Aug 20: A low intensity minor blast took place at the basement of Saket Court in the national capital on Thursday. "A PCR call was received around 12:30 pm on Thursday regarding a blast at the Saket
court," Delhi Fire Services director AK Sharma told. "After receiving the call we sent six fire tender machines to the spot, but there was no fire," he added. "The debris of the bomb had been collected from the blast site and investigation
is on to determine the cause," Sharma said. According to sources, the intensity of the blast was very low and several teams of the Delhi Police have reached the Saket court. No casualty was reported. (Agencies)
Travel agent arrested for fleecing customers of an international airline company New Delhi, Aug 20: With the arrest of a 32-year-old travel agent, Delhi Police today claimed to have busted a scam involving tens of thousands of pounds in the national capital. The accused, identified as Damanpreet Singh, owns a travel agency in central Delhi's Karol Bagh area. He allegedly forged records and cheated customers of an international airline company, said a police official.
According to the police, Singh allegedly used to keep tab on clients who were loyal to British Airways as it would give 'points' to such flyers on the basis of distance travelled in a particular year. Those points could again be collectively used as currency for buying fresh tickets pertaining to the same company. Each point is valued at around 1.5 pound and Singh had allegedly si-
phoned off around two million of them secretly. He later utilised those points to buy international air tickets and sold them to other clients, charging them full amount for the same, said the police official. Singh has been booked under Sections 420 (cheating), 468 (forgery) and 471 (forgery with respect to electronic documents) of IPC and relevant sections of IT Act, the official added. (Agencies)
New Delhi Aug 20: Economic linkages and co-operation with Pacific island countries are key factors in India's extended 'Act East' policy, President Pranab Mukherjee said on Thursday. Even though India is separated from the Pacific island countries by oceans and continents, it is proud to have a long tradition of close friendship with them, Mukherjee told the heads of states participating in the 2nd Summit of 'Forum for India-Pacific Island Countries' (FIPIC) when they
do respect the Rajasthan High Court's verdict banning Santhara, but the decision was taken in absence
of proper defence, evidences and justification by Jain Samaj, hence it should be reconsidered," he said.
of a "tragic" lack of transparency on the Tianjin explosions. UNSpecial Rapporteur Baskut Tuncak said that Tianjin disaster could have
been prevented with more timely information. At least 114 people died and another 700 were injured by massive explosions last week at a
Washington, Aug 20: Former US President Jimmy Carter will discuss his cancer diagnosis on Thursday, a week after he revealed that recent liver surgery found the disease had spread to other parts of his body. Carter, 90, is expected to disclose details about his condition at a news conference at 10 a.m. EST (1400 GMT) at the non-profit center bearing his name in Atlanta. He announced last week that he was rearranging his schedule to receive treatment at Emory Healthcare in At-
Omar tweeted. Separatist leaders Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Mirwaiz Umar Farooq and were placed under house arrest while Yasin Malik was arrested. A police raid was conducted at separatist leader Asiya Andrabi's residence in Srinagar. "J&K State governments in the past have NEVER detained the APHC
leaders so as to prevent them from visiting the Pak High Commission. If the centre was so keen to prevent the Hurriyat leaders from meeting Sartaj Aziz they should've been told to detain them themselves." Omar said in his tweet. The Pak High Commission had invited separatist leaders to Delhi to meet Pakistani envoy Abdul Basit and NSA Sartaz Aziz, who is coming for talks with his Indian counterpart in the national capital on Sunday. The former chief minister asserted that he had never seen an Indo-Pak dialogue where both sides were so keen to 'sabotage' it. He added that both nations were competing to give reasons to call off the NSA-level talks. "Shelling, Infiltration,
lanta, where he previously underwent elective surgery to remove a small mass in his liver. His prognosis was then considered excellent, the Carter Center said in a statement earlier this month. Yet with his father and his three siblings having died of pancreatic cancer, the disease has long been a concern for the Carter. His mother also had pancreatic cancer in addition to breast and bone cancer. Carter, a peanut farmer from Georgia, served as president from 1977 to 1981, his oneterm in the White House
defined by national economic struggles and the embarrassing Iran hostage crisis. Yet the centrist former governor of Georgia was also praised for helping to stabilize the Middle East with the 1978 Camp David accords between Israel and Egypt. After losing re-election to Republican Ronald Regan, he went on to champion wide-ranging international humanitarian efforts. Carter won a Nobel Peace Prize in 2002. He published his latest book last month, titled "A Full Life: Reflections at Ninety." In a wide-
ranging interview last month about his life with Reuters Editor-at-Large Sir Harold Evans, Carter reflected on his childhood in a home without running water or electricity and his concerns about ongoing racial prejudice in the United States. Carter and his wife, Rosalynn, have three sons and a daughter. They live in rural Plains, Georgia, about 150 miles (240 km) south of Atlanta, where he has remained a Baptist church deacon and a Sunday School teacher, according to the Carter Center. (Agencies)
HC asks the state archaeology department to study certain sites in Chitrakoot area: Madhya Pradesh Jabalpur,Aug 20: The Madhya Pradesh High Court has asked the state archaeology department to study certain sites in Chitrakoot area of Satna district where according to the Hindu mythologyLord Rama spent his 14-year exile and decide if they should be preserved. A division bench of
"In Sanatan Dharma, a rebirth through Santhara is existed in ancient script and Jain religion", Shekhawat said. When asked whether the VHP will openly support the Jain community's 'silent march' in the state on August 24, he said, "Wherever VHP's support is required we will do it. We will participate in their agitation". Rajasthan High Court on August 10 has declared the practice of Santhara or Sullekhana as illegal and held that any person supporting it would be prosecuted for abetment of suicide. (Agencies)
warehouse storing hazardous chemicals in Tianjin's port. The cause of the blasts is still not clear and a massive cleanup is continuing.
House arrest then immediate release of separatists is 'bizarre', says Omar ANI New Delhi, Aug 20: Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday slammed the Centre and the state government for the house arrests and release of separatist leaders ahead of their planned meet with Pakistan's National Security Advisor Sartaz Aziz and said the whole thing was bizarre. The National Conference leader hit out at the Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister, Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, for acting on the orders of the Centre and putting the Hurriyat leaders under arrest. "Shame on Mufti Syed for arresting on demand. He had no business following his masters orders & detaining the Hurriyat leaders like this,"
ment attaches great importance to its relations with their friends among the Pa-
Former US President Carter to open up about cancer diagnosis
UN criticises China for 'tragic' lack of transparency in Tianjin blasts ANI London, Aug 20: The United Nations' top expert on human rights and hazardous materials has accused China
called on him at the Rashtrapati Bhavan here. He said the Indian govern-
cific island countries. "The Pacific island countries are generously endowed with natural resources. India would be happy to work with them in harnessing their mineral, marine and hydrocarbon resources, the president said. The Indian government as well as the private sector are keen to strengthen and diversify bilateral trade and encourage investments in fisheries, agriculture, oil and natural gas, mining and water desalination, he added.Mukherjee
"Both of them should be suspended immediately from the Industrial Development Corporation,"
VHP supports 'santhara', the Jain community's centuries old ritual Jaipur, Aug 20: Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) Thursday came out in support of 'santhara', the Jain community's centuries old ritual of voluntary fasting to death, and urged the Rajasthan High Court to reconsider its decision of banning the practice. "Santhara was/is never a suicide attempt by Jain-muni as it is meant to get 'moksh' (salvation) from existing life and 'punarjanam' (rebirth) and it is a 2500 year old ritual since Bhagwan Mahaveer," state VHP President, Narpat Singh Shekhawat told a press conference here. "We
"Even though India is separated from the Pacific island countries by oceans and continents, it is proud to have a long tradition of close friendship with them"
terror attacks & now Hurriyat arrests, clearly no side wants to talk & yet neither side has the guts to call it off. It's so obvious that Ufa & now these planned NSA talks are under international pressure with both India and Pakistan hoping the other will pull out," he said. The Pak High Commission had invited separatist leaders to Delhi to meet Pakistani envoy Abdul Basit and NSA Sartaz Aziz, who is coming for talks with his Indian counterpart in the national capital on Sunday. Earlier, two out of the three Separatist leaders, who were put under house arrest ahead of the NSA-level talks, were released within two hours by the Jammu and Kashmir Government.
Chief Justice AM Khanwilkar and Justice JK Maheshwari passed the order on August 17 in response to a petition by Nityanand Mishra. Mishra, citing references in Ramcharit Manas and Ramayana, has demanded that certain places in Satna district are associated with Ram's exile and they be
conserved as archaeological sites. On November 21, 2007, the Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister had announced that the sites associated with Lord Ram will be preserved and developed, which underlined their significance, says the petition. The court directed Mishra to furnish whatever rel-
evant details he has to the archaeological director in ten days. The director shall examine the issue and pass appropriate directions (for conservation of these sites, etc) after giving hearing to all the stakeholders in accordance with the law within three months, the HC said. (Agencies)
Goa CM promised not to interfere in the ACB investigation of the bribery case Panaji, Aug 20: Goa Chief Minister Laxmikant Parsekar on Thursday said his brother-in-law and another government official caught in a bribery case should be immediately suspended. The chief minister also promised not to interfere in the Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) investigation in the case. "He (Dilip Malvankar) is my relative. One cannot keep track of every relative. Law will take its own course. I never interfere in police investigations," Parsekar said. "Both
of them should be suspended immediately from the Industrial Development Corporation," he added. Malvankar, along with Ajit Gaunekar, both field managers at the state government-operated Industrial Development Corporation, were arrested by ACB sleuths on Tuesday night while allegedly accepting a bribe of Rs. 1 lakh from the promoter of a Jaipurbased firm, in order to facilitate the allotment of a plot to set up an ayurvedic medicine production project at Tuem industrial estate in
north Goa, 45 km from here. The Congress, meanwhile, demanded that Parsekar should give up the home ministry portfolio, fearing his interference into the antigraft investigation against his brother-in-law Dilip Malvankar. "It is very disgraceful that the chief minister`s close relative was caught red-handed by the ACB. The chief minister should give up the home portfolio for a free and fair probe," Congress spokesperson Durgadas Kamat said in a statement here. (Agencies)
said India appreciates the support it has received from them for its candidature for permanent seat on an expanded UN Security Council. The second FIPIC summit would be held on August 21 in Jaipur. FIPIC has as its members India and 14 Pacific island countries, namely Fiji, Cook Islands, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu. (Agencies)
BJP steals show in Rajasthan civic polls BJP emerged victorious in civic polls in Rajasthan, winning 65 of the 129 seats. ANI Jaipur, Aug 20: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Thursday emerged victorious in civic polls in Rajasthan, winning 65 of the 129 seats. The verdict, however, was a major setback for Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, as the BJP lost in her home turf. Of Jhalawar and Jhalrapatan municipality. The Congress won in 27 seats, while Independents emerged victorious in 17 seats. Congress leader Sachin Pilot, however, downplayed his party's dismal show in the civic polls. "Congress comprehensively defeated the BJP in Vasundhara Raje's strong hold," claimed Pilot. "There is less than one percent difference between the vote share of the BJP and the Congress," he added. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has expressed his delight with the BJP's splendid show for the confidence reposed and thanked the people of Rajasthan. "A big thank you to people of Rajasthan. Congrats to Rajasthan BJP workers & leaders on the commendable performance in the civic polls," he tweeted. The verdict which is eyeing to grab power in Bihar next.
Delhi HC takes up fresh PIL against circle rate notification New Delhi, Aug 20 : The Delhi High Court on Thursday sought response of AAP government on a PIL seeking quashing of its notification enhancing circle rate for acquiring agricultural land in the city by three times. A bench of Chief Justice G Rohini and Justice Jayant Nath directed Arvind Kejriwal government to file an affidavit within two weeks on the issue raised in the petition. The court said that it needs to examine whether Lieutenant Governor (LG) has to sign any notification issued in his name or not. "If you (AAP govt) say that under the Transaction of Business Rules, LG's signature is not necessary while issuing any notification in his name, then you put the same on an affidavit," it said. The court has now listed the matter for further hearing on September 23. However, the bench
A bench of Chief Justice G Rohini and Justice Jayant Nath directed Arvind Kejriwal government to file an affidavit within two weeks on the issue raised in the petition was informed through senior advocate Dayan Krishnan, appearing for Delhi government, that as per Transaction of Business Rules, the notification had to be issued in the name of LG and the same has been complied with. Krishnan also said that the terms of the notification were informed to the LG and endorsed by the Home Ministry. The fresh plea was moved before the high court by a city Congress leader Naresh Kumar, seeking direction to the Delhi government
to fix uniform rates for agricultural land throughout the capital instead of fixing different rates for different areas of the city so as to protect the right of equality of all farmers. The plea said the notification of August 4, issued by the city government, enhanced the circle rates in a discriminatory manner and it should be declared as "null and void". "The decision to fix different rates for the agricultural land to be acquired by the government is with-
out any logic and justification," the plea said. It said the government had no competence to issue such notifications and it was the LG who is the competent authority to take decision and he has not approved the same. The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government has fixed the new rates in the range of Rs 1 crore to Rs 3.5 crore per acre from the earlier Rs 53 lakh per acre. The High Court had earlier dismissed a similar plea saying "no case is made out" as the notification was issued in the name of the LG. The plea filed on August 11 by a property dealer had sought quashing of the notification which has run into trouble after LG Najeeb Jung directed the Arvind Kejriwal government on August 10 to maintain status quo till the issue was examined legally. (Agencies)
DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21
Pakistan accuses India of 'involvement in terrorism' Islamabad, Aug 20: Resorting to rhetoric ahead of the first-ever NSA-level talks, Pakistan has accused India of involvement in terrorism, saying "enemy" within the country gets money from abroad to create law and order problem. The "enemy" hitting the border villages through shelling was also "involved in terrorism" in Pakistan, Interior Minister Nisar Ali Khan said after addressing a passing out parade of Punjab Rangers in Mandi Bahuddin in Punjab. Without naming India, Khan said the same enemy was behind terrorism where, on the one hand, talks of friendship but also shells the civilians along the LoC and the Working Boundary. "This is the same enemy into whose eyes we look at the Wagah border daily," he said yesterday. He said that Pakistan's enemy within the
country gets money from the outside to create law and order situation. "There are elements within us who target innocent people in return for money they receive from the enemy country. We have to win the war against terror at all costs," he added. His comments came just days ahead of meeting of National Security Adviser Sartaj Aziz with his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval in New Delhi. The talks scheduled on August 23 are expected to go ahead as per schedule. (Agencies)
11 killed, 13 missing in China rainstorms
Beijing, Aug 20:Eleven persons were killed and 13 others missing after heavy rains lashed southwest China's Sichuan Province beginning this week, authorities said today.The rain and floods have affected 564,000 people in 16 counties of six cities since Sunday. Xuyong county of Luzhou City has been affected the most, according to the provincial flood control and drought relief headquarters. The 11 deaths and all of the missing people were reported in Xuyong. Mudslides on Monday morning destroyed 35 homes and cut off power, telecommunications and roads. Police officers, armed police and firemen are searching for the missing. (Agencies)
Indonesian Police Fired Tear Gas, Water Cannon at Jakarta Protesters
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Chinese military orders weapons safety check after Tianjin blasts Beijing, Aug 20: The Chinese military has ordered a thorough safety check of the army's storage of weapons and ammunitions after last week's deadly warehouse explosions in Tianjin in which 114 people were killed and 65 others went missing. The PLA's four headquarters -General Staff Headquarters, General Political Department, General Logistics Department and General Armament Department- have issued a joint circular ordering the check, according to the People's Liberation Army (PLA) Daily. Authorities from the four wings held a conference regarding the safety check on Sunday. The army
and armed police were told to carry out thorough examination of their weapon, ammunition, fuel, chemical, explosive and toxic material warehouses to avert similar incident like in Tianjin. Twin blasts in a warehouse attached to the Tianjin port destroyed several kilometres of the area around it, including a number of high-rise apartment blocks. The massive chemical explosions considered to be China's worst industrial accident killed 114 people with 65 others still remain missing. Over 670 people are still undergoing treatment in hospitals. While it is not yet known what has caused the explosions, offi-
The Chinese military has ordered a thorough safety check of the army's storage of weapons and ammunitions after last week's deadly warehouse explosions in Tianjin in which 114 people were killed and 65 others went missing. cials resorted to a complex cleaning process to clear over 3,000 tonnes of chemicals stored in the sprawling warehouse, including 700 tonnes of sodium cyanide.
The military deployed over 500 troops trained nuclear and biological warfare for the cleanup amid fears of air and water contamination and reports of pres-
ence of nerve gas. The army and armed police were told to carry out thorough examination of their weapon, ammunition, fuel, chemical, explosive and toxic material
"Fgn terrorist groups' role Latif Siddique's writ rejected unlikely in temple blast" Bangkok, Aug 20: Thailand today said the attack at a popular temple that killed 20 people was "unlikely" to have links with international terrorist groups, as it sought help from global intelligence agencies to arrest the three suspects believed to be part of a 10-member network."The security agencies have collaborated with intelligence agencies from a lot of countries and have come to the same preliminary conclusion that the incident is unlikely to be linked to international terrorism," Thai junta spokesman Col. Winthai Suvaree told reporters.Nobody has claimed responsibility for the attack at the Erawan Brahma temple, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bangkok that killed
20 people, including five Chinese, and injured more than 100 others on Monday night. Col. Winthai said Thai security agencies were in close touch with other countries. He said the preliminary investigation into the attack showed that the Chinese people were not the target because other nationalities too were hurt. Nationals from Hong Kong, the UK, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore were also among the foreigners killed in the attack. Thai police last evening released a sketch of a young bespectacled "foreign man" who carried out the bombing and is believed to be part of a 10-member network. Authorities also announced a reward of 1 million baht (USD 28,000) for informa-
Thailand today said the attack at a popular temple that killed 20 people was "unlikely" to have links with international terrorist groups, as it sought help from global intelligence agencies to arrest the three suspects believed to be part of a 10-member network tion leading to his arrest .Police said that at least 10 people are suspected of involvement in the blast, de-
scribed as the countries "worst ever attack"."We have not yet received any feedback from Interpol, but they are trying to help. Every country is trying to help," a police official said. The sketch shows a young man in black-rimmed eyeglasses with bushy, dark hair and a light complexion. The warrant issued by Bangkok's Southern Criminal Court describes him as tall, with a pointed nose and thick lips. The sketch of the suspect is based on the CCTV footage and a description provided by a motorcycle taxi driver who is believed to have given him a ride on Monday night. The Brahma temple was reopened yesterday for worshippers and tourists two days after the blasts. (Agencies)
Dhaka, Aug 20: The High Court has rejected a writ petition filed by former minister Abdul Latif Siddique challenging the jurisdiction of Election Commission (EC) to carry out the hearing over legitimacy of his parliament membership.A HC bench comprising Justice Md. Emdadul Haque and Justice Muhammad Khurshid Alam Sarkar passed the order today.As the court rejected Latif's writ petition, he has to attend the hearing of election commission (EC) over legitimacy of his parliament membership on August 23.On August
Myanmar lawmakers to vote on recall bill amid political turmoil
Jakarta,Aug 20: Residents facing eviction from a flood-prone part of Indonesia's capital of Jakarta clashed with police today, prompting security forces to fire tear gas and water cannon.Land disputes are common in Indonesia, where efforts by government and business to acquire and clear property are frequently held back by overlapping permits and a legacy of unclear land titles, often resulting in
violence.Several people were injured in today's clashes, according to media reports. It was not immediately clear if any arrests were made.The latest clash centres around efforts by Jakarta Governor Basuki "Ahok" Tjahaja Purnama to remove squatters and demolish housing along the banks of Jakarta's Ciliwung River in Kampung Pulo, which frequently floods during the monsoon season (Agencies)
Yangon, Aug 20:Myanmar lawmakers will vote today on a bill that could lead to the impeachment of ousted ruling party chief Shwe Mann, as political factions realign after the ex-general was dramatically sacked by the president last week. Shwe Mann was purged less than three months before a general election in Myanmar, which has undergone major changes since the end of direct military rule in 2011, but where rival forces are now vying for power after an unprecedented period of reform. Myanmar's commander-inchief reiterated the need for
the army to maintain its powerful role in politics, but said it would accept the results of the Nov. 8 election in comments posted in English on his Facebook page today. The constitution reserves 25 percent of seats in parliament for unelected military officers."Free and fair elections are also my aspiration," said Senior General Min Aung, adding the army would respect the law.If the controversial bill before parliament today is approved, lawmakers would lose their seats if 1 percent of constituents signed a petition to recall them and the election com-
Lanka prez Sirisena opts for national unity govt Colombo, Aug 20: Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena's party today said it will join a national unity government with the UNP after his rival and predecessor Mahinda Rajapaksa failed in his bid to become prime minister. Rajapaksa's United People's Freedom Alliance (UPFA) lost the parliamentary elections, coming second as it secured 95 seats in Monday's poll won by incumbent Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe's United National Party (UNP) with 106 seats, shattering the former president's hopes of staging a political comeback. Sri Lanka Freedom Party's central committee decided to join a national government with prime minister-elect
Wickremesinghe's UNP for a period of two years, SLFP general secretary Duminda Dissanayake said. A five-member committee has also been appointed to work out the modalities, he added. This would enable the UNP's broader front - the United National Front for Good Governance - to form a
government with a working majority. The UNP finished seven seats short of the 113 working majority in the 225member assembly in the polls. Both Sirisena and Wickremesinghe have been pledging a national government with the participation of the two main political forces during the run-up to the August 17 election. In the SLFP's UPFA coalition, loyalists of Rajapaksa form a larger part of the 95-member strong parliamentary group. Rajapaksa ran in the election on a pledge not to enter a national unity government with the UNP. In the January 8 presidential poll, Rajapaksa was routed by his former health minister Sirisena. He was eyeing a po-
litical revival seeking to become prime minister by contesting in Monday's polls. Sirisena and Rajapaksa are bitter rivals despite being in the same party after Sirisena in November last year broke ranks within the SLFP and joined the then opposition UNP to challenge Rajapaksa and then defeated him. But Sirisena was not able to withstand pressure from Rajapaksa's loyalists and had to give him a party ticket to contest the polls. Rajapaksa was himself elected as an MP with a massive personal preference vote of over 400,000. Wickremesinghe is expected to take oath later today as prime minister after finalization of Election Commission formalities. (Agencies)
mission found the complaint was justified. Shwe Mann, who remains a ruling party member and the speaker of the lower house, faces such a petition from his own constituents for his support in June of bills to amend the constitution and limit the military's role in politics.It was unclear how much support the bill has in parliament, where Shwe Mann has cultivated a reputation as a statesman since taking up the role of speaker in 2011, when the ruling junta ceded power to a quasi-civilian government. Noble laureate Aung San Suu Kyi said this week the
Sirisena is scheduled to attend the UN General Assembly and will speak on the latest developments in Sri Lanka.The President has told the UN chief that he looks forward to the meeting in New York and also agreed to consider some of the advice given by Ban Ki-moon during their telephone conversation.On Tuesday, in a statement issued by his office, Ban Ki-moon applauded the people of Sri Lanka for their peaceful and broadbased participation in the parliamentary elections of 17 August.He commended the President for having shepherded
bill was "ridiculous", arguing the threshold should be set at around 20 percent of constituents. Shwe Mann's political future hangs in the balance after his rivalry with President Thein Sein came to a head last week, when trucks with security personnel sealed off the headquarters of the ruling Union Solidarity and Development Party. The president's allies hosted late-night meetings at the guarded USDP complex and purged Shwe Mann's faction from the party's executive committee.Cherry FM, a radio station linked to Shwe Mann's daughter-
in-law, was back on the air today, after being suspended last week by the Ministry of Information, which said it had failed to convince the government it would be impartial."Since they agreed to follow the rules and regulations set for all FM broadcasters, they were permitted to resume," Myint Htwe, an official at the Ministry of Information, told media. Than Htwe Zaw, the general manager of Cherry FM confirmed that the station was allowed to begin broadcasting again, but declined to comment further. (Agencies)
SAARC finance ministers gather in Nepal to discuss regional economy Kathmandu, Aug. 20: The finance ministers of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) countries are holding a oneday meeting today to discuss regional e c o n o m y. N e p a l e s e Prime Minister Sushil Koirala, in his opening remarks, stressed the importance of collective efforts for the economic security of the region, saying, "We must bring all positive factors and
Ban, Maithripala agree to meet in New York Colombo, Aug 20:UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon and President Maithripala Sirisena have agreed to meet in New York next month when the President attends to the UN General Assembly.Ban Ki-moon had telephoned the President yesterday and congratulated him on the peaceful conduct of the Parliamentary elections, the President's office said today.During the conversation, the UN Secretary General had expressed keen interest to meet the President on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.President Maithripala
warehouses. Safely storing inflammable, explosive and biochemical hazardous materials and ammunition disposal should be given special attention, it said. Moreover, the military demands improved response plans and intensified drills in case of emergencies. Safely storing inflammable, explosive and biochemical hazardous materials and ammunition disposal should be given special attention, the circular said. The document also required education for soldiers and officers on the extreme importance of safety issues in order to learn from the Tianjin explosions and prevent other accidents. (Agencies)
an inclusive process and the Election Commissioner for his exemplary efforts in helping guarantee the exercise of the right to vote of the people of Sri Lanka.The Secretary-General encouraged the new Government to make further progress on good governance, accountability and reconciliation. He had said he looks forward to continuing to work with the President, the Prime Minister, the Government and the people of Sri Lanka in support of building long-term peace and prosperity for the country.(Agencies)
create a synergy in favor of enhanced cooperation for peace, stability and development in the region."The meeting will cover issues relating to greater flow of financial capital, intra-regional long-term investment, currency swap and use of SAARC Development Fund, among others. However, the ministers are less likely to reach a common agreement on much-hyped establishment of SAARC Devel-
opment Bank.Nepalese Finance Minister Dr Ram Sharan Mahat said this meeting is a milestone in bolstering peace and prosperity within South Asia."We expect to enter a new era of economic transformation for which economic growth across South Asia will provide an impetus," Mahat said. Nepal had hosted the 18th SAARC summit on November 26 and 27 in its capital Kathmandu. (Agencies)
16, Latif Siddique filed the writ petition challenging the jurisdiction of EC to carry out the hearing. Earlier, the EC told Latif to attend its hearing over legitimacy of his parliament membership.In September last year, Siddique allegedly made derogatory remarks on Hajj while speaking at a programme in New York .Following the incident, dozens of cases were filed against him in different courts across Bangladesh. Later, he was sacked from his minister ship job. He also lost his Awami League membership following the remarks. (Agencies)
Sartaj Aziz will meet Hurriyat leaders in Delhi, confirms Pak FO Karachi, Aug 20: Pakistan's Foreign Office spokesperson Qazi Khalilullah has said that Prime Minister's Adviser on National Security and Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz would meet Hurriyat leaders in New Delhi.According to the media, Khalilullah said the consultations with Hurriyat leaders are a routine matter.He also said that India and Pakistan are in the process of finalizing the agenda for the NSA-level talks in New Delhi on August 23.Pakistan's High Commissioner to India, Abdul Basit, had earlier extended an invitation to the Hurriyat chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani and other Hurriyat leaders for Pakistan NSA Sartaj Aziz's reception party to be held on August 23.Last year, India had cancelled the Foreign Secretary-level talks with Pakistan after Basit met Kashmiri separatists ahead of the planned meet. (ANI)
SC upholds HC verdict over Brazilian wheat Dhaka ,Aug 20:The Supreme Court has upheld a High Court verdict that ordered the government to take back the wheat imported from Brazil if anyone wants to return it and the government should not force the consumers to buy or consume the wheat.A fourmember bench of the Appellate Division headed by Chief Justice Surendra Kumar Sinha passed the order after rejecting a plea filed
by the government challenging the High Court verdict. According to media reports, around 200,000 tonnes of the wheat imported from Brazil and supplied by Singapore-based contractor Olam International was of substandard quality.On June 30, the HC asked the authorities concerned to clarify whether the wheat, which was imported from Brazil for Tk4 billion, is suitable for human consumption.On July
8, the High Court ruled that the government should take back the imported wheat if any consumer, who received it, wants to return it.The court also issued a ruling that government should not force the consumers to buy or consume the wheat bought from Brazil. However, based on a report of Directorate General of Food, the court observed that the Tk4 bn wheat imported from Brazil is "fit for human consumption." (Agencies)
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Modi's UAE visit It is being considered a major breakthrough It might be just a two-day trip but it was packed with a wide range of business meets, interactions with Indian workers and visits to cultural icons of the country. High on the PM's agenda was improving trade and investment relations between the two nations which already have trade ties pegged at $60 billion per annum - a dip from what it was in 2013 but significant nonetheless, as UAE comes only third after US and China. Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in the United Arab Emirates on a two-day official visit during which he held talks with the Gulf country's top leadership to enhance cooperation in key areas of trade and security. Also in a move that has been seen as a major breakthrough, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Government has decided to allot land for building a temple in Abu Dhabi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi thanked the UAE government for their decision. He too visited a labour camp in Abu Dhabi to highlight New Delhi's concern about the welfare of its migrant workers helping to build glitzy skyscrapers, hotels and museums in the oil-rich Gulf state. As his visit to the United Arab Emirates coincided with the international calls to improve workers' conditions in Gulf countries, which rely on Asian labour for mega projects such as the World Expo 2020 in Dubai and the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar. Some 2.6 million Indians live and work in the UAE, according to Indian embassy figures. The embassy estimates about 60 per cent of those are blue-collar workers. About 200 workers broke into applause when Modi arrived at an indoor basketball court at the labour camp in the Industrial City of Abu Dhabi. Modi chatted with the workers, enquiring about the place and their welfare and jobs. In November, India launched a campaign for higher wages for its workers in the Gulf states. Indian diplomats raised the minimum salaries they recommend because of higher living costs. Also experts are of the opinion that the UAE's soft corner towards Pakistan was only because of the regular visits paid by the Pakistani Prime Ministers or its other leaders to it. These yearly visits strengthened relations between Pakistan and the UAE. Thus if India had also not ignored it, then instead of Pakistan, India would have been closer to the UAE. The UAE's relation with India was never bad. But it always wanted to make relations with India more strong. Indira Gandhi's welcome in 1981 and the way Narendra Modi was welcomed on 16th August 2015 proved it. It shows the UAE's desperation for Indian friendship.
Health and environmental sanitation in India There is a need to make rapid strides in this area Environmental sanitation is a major public health issue in India. Recent interventional studies on environmental sanitation in India highlighted the importance of prioritizing control strategies. India is still lagging far behind many countries in the field of environmental sanitation. The unsanitary conditions are appalling in India and need a great sanitary awakening similar to what took place in London in the mid19th century. Improvement in sanitation requires newer strategies and targeted interventions with follow-up evaluation. The need of the hour is to identify the existing system of environmental sanitation with respect to its structure and functioning and to prioritize the control strategies according to the need of the country. These priorities are particularly important because of issue of water constraints, environmentrelated health problems, rapid population growth, inequitable distribution of water resources, issues related to administrative problems, urbanization and industrialization, migration of population, and rapid economic growth. As per estimates, inadequate sanitation cost India almost $54 billion or 6.4% of the country's GDP in 2006. Over 70% of this economic impact or about $38.5 billion was health-related, with diarrhea followed by acute lower respiratory infections accounting for 12% of the health-related impacts. Evidence suggests that all water and sanitation improvements are cost-beneficial in all developing world sub-regions. Sectoral demands for water are growing rapidly in India owing mainly to urbanization and it is estimated that by 2025, more than 50% of the country's population will live in cities and towns. Population increase, rising incomes, and industrial growth are also responsible for this dramatic shift. National Urban Sanitation Policy 2008 was the recent development in order to rapidly promote sanitation in urban areas of the country. India's Ministry of Urban Development commissioned the survey as part of its National Urban Sanitation Policy in November 2008. In rural areas, local government institutions in charge of operating and maintaining the infrastructure are seen as weak and lack the financial resources to carry out their functions. In addition, no major city in India is known to have a continuous water supply and an estimated 72% of Indians still lack access to improved sanitation facilities. Implementation of low-cost sanitation system with lower subsidies, greater household involvement, range of technology choices, options for sanitary complexes for women, rural drainage systems, IEC and awareness building, involvement of NGOs and local groups, availability of finance, human resource development, and emphasis on school sanitation are the important areas to be considered. Also appropriate forms of private participation and public private partnerships, evolution of a sound sector policy in Indian context, and emphasis on sustainability with political commitment are prerequisites to bring the change. The public health challenge inherent in meeting the MDG targets is ensuring that improvements result in access to water and sanitation for the critical at-risk populations. Innovative approaches are required to ensure the availability of low-cost, simple, and locally acceptable water and sanitation interventions and integrating these approaches into existing social institutions such as schools, markets, and health facilities.
Iran and Pakistan: Back to Business In the wake of the nuclear deal, the two countries get ready to do business. Arif Rafiq Last Thursday, Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif visited Pakistan as part of a multi-country tour to explore opportunities for greater economic and security cooperation in the region following the landmark nuclear deal with the P5+1. The July nuclear deal likely clears the way for the completion of sanctionsdelayed energy projects between Islamabad and Tehran, bringing relief to energy-starved Pakistan. It also creates an opportunity for cooperation between Iran and Pakistan to promote peace in their respective Balochistan regions, creating a virtuous cycle of economic growth and improved security. However, while Pakistan stands to be a major beneficiary of the nuclear deal, other countries, including Pakistan's archrival India, will also gain from Iran's opening to the outside world. Nonetheless, speculation of an IndianIranian entente, perhaps even including the United States, is overblown. The India-Iran relationship will continue to grow, but with China's big bet on Pakistan - in the tens of billions of dollars - and Pakistan's distancing itself from the regional sectarian war, Iran appears keen to partner with Pakistan rather than playing an antagonistic role in the country. The First Order of Business is Business The eventual lifting of U.S. and international sanctions on Iran will allow for the Islamabad-Tehran relationship to be increasingly driven by economic and geographic realities, rather than the interests of exogenous actors. Pakistan and Iran are neighbors. Pakistan is a net-energy importer. Iran is a net-energy exporter. In anticipation of the lifting of sanctions on Iran, Islamabad and Tehran are moving forward with two major energy projects: a natural gas pipeline and an electricity transmission line. Together, both projects will alleviate Pakistan's crippling shortages in both electricity and vehicle fuel. Pakistan and Iran signed a $1.5 billion natural gas pipeline deal in 2013. The project has been in limbo as a result of international sanctions on Iran. In signing the agreement, Islamabad not only defied pressure from the West and Gulf Arab states, it also put itself in a vulnerable position vis-Ă -vis Tehran. The accord stipulates that Pakistan would be
fined up to $3 million a day if it failed to complete construction of the pipeline by the end of 2014. While Iran has essentially completed its portion of the pipeline, Pakistan has not. In fact, construction of the Pakistan portion did not begin until this summer. The China Factor Importantly, Iran has not opted to exercise the gas deal's penalty clause, indicating its keenness to become an energy partner with Pakistan. China may have also been a factor motivating Iran's restraint. With a population of close to 200 million, Pakistan is a large and growing energy and economic market. But China is even bigger. And for southern Iran, Pakistan is a land-based gateway to China. Beijing is financing and constructing a $46 billion economic corridor that will connect Pakistan's Arabian Sea port of Gwadar, located close to Persian Gulf shipping lanes, to China's landlocked and economically underdeveloped Xinjiang province. Iran's ambassador to China has expressed interest in eventually extending the Pakistan gas pipeline to China. Tehran may also be keen to exploit future land and rail routes connecting Gwadar to Xinjiang. Already, Iran is connected to Pakistan's Gwadar by road; and a freight rail connection between Pakistani and Iranian Balochistan has been restored. Shared Stability in Balochistan Much like Pakistani
Balochistan, Iran's SistanBaluchestan province has faced periodic uprisings by segments of its Baloch community, which feels deprived by its central government. Prior to the 1979 Islamic revolution, Iran and Pakistan collaborated to subdue Baloch separatism. That cooperation subsequently waned as relations between the two countries soured post-1979. After the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan, a shadowy Iranian Sunni Baloch insurgent group, Jundullah, emerged onto the scene, engaging in several spectacular attacks on Iranian government officials and security personnel. Jundullah and its successor groups are believed to have operated from Pakistan. Similarly, after the U.S. invasion of Afghanistan, the insurgency in Pakistan's Balochistan renewed. Baloch insurgents combating Pakistan benefited from safe havens in Afghanistan; and some militant leaders, like Allah Nazar Baloch, have been rumored to be aided by Iran. India has also provided support to Baloch separatists. And Pakistan has alleged in the past that some of this assistance has come from the Indian consulate in the Iranian Balochistan city of Zahedan. The IranPakistan border, much like the Afghanistan-Pakistan border, is porous, with overlapping populations and high levels of illicit activity, including smuggling. The Baloch insurgency in Pakistan is now fractured and waning. And there is
indication that Iran is revising its approach toward Pakistani Balochistan by reverting to its pre-revolution policy of partnership with Islamabad to stabilize their respective Balochistans. Last week, Zarif linked the fates of Iranian and Pakistani Balochistan, saying: "We believe economic development both in Pakistan's Balochistan province and Iran's Sistan[Balochistan] are fundamental to fight poverty and extremism." Behind the scenes, there may be some bilateral security coordination. In March, Pakistan arrested Abdul Sattar Rigi, an Iranian Sunni Baloch insurgent leader. And some time this year, a Pakistani Baloch gang leader, Baba Ladla, wanted by Pakistani security forces, was reportedly killed by Iranian security personnel. Building trust between the Iranian and Pakistani security establishments is an uphill task, especially given Iran's deep ties with India and Pakistan's partnership with Saudi Arabia. But Islamabad-Tehran relations benefit from the absence of other complications common to the region; Iran and Pakistan have an established border that neither contest, in contrast to Pakistan's borders with Afghanistan and India. In addition to the gas pipeline, Tehran is making additional investments in the stability of Pakistani Balochistan. Iran and Pakistan are close to finalizing
a 1000MW electricity transmission deal that would supply the country's Balochistan province, which faces the most severe electricity blackouts in Pakistan. To truly have an impact, Pakistan would have to broaden the last mile of its electricity grid, connecting more homes in Balochistan, and improve its customer bill collections rate. Iran, which presently supplies Pakistani Balochistan with at least 75MW of electricity, has expressed interest in expanding the soon-to-beagreed-upon 1000MW supply to 3000MW. Avoiding Entanglements: The India and Saudi Factors In the 1990s, in the aftermath of the Iran-Iraq war and the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan, Pakistan was aligned with Saudi Arabia and India with Iran. The two axes supported opposing sides in the Afghan civil war; and Iran and Saudi Arabia patronized Sunni and Shia sectarian proxies in Pakistan. A similar regional context exists today. The United States has all but vacated Afghanistan. Sunni militants - some of whom are expressly anti-Shia - are filling the vacuum. And against that backdrop, there is yet another Iran-Saudi Arabia proxy war being fought in Iraq, Syria, and Yemen. But Pakistan has managed to insulate itself from the regional sectarian war. Sectarian violence and terrorism overall rose from
2007 to 2013. But since last year, as a result of military operations in North Waziristan and nationwide counterterrorism operations, terrorism, including sectarian violence, has plummeted. With the reduction in deaths of Shia civilians at the hands of Sunni extremists, the prospects for Iranian meddling in Pakistan are reduced. Pakistan's decision not to play an active combat role in the Saudiled Yemen war has, and will continue to have, the same mitigating effect on Iran. On top of all this, there is an alignment in how Iran and Pakistan view stability in Afghanistan. Iran has expressed support for the Pakistan-backed (and now stalled) reconciliation process in Afghanistan. Tehran has hosted multiple Afghan Taliban negotiations. And at the same time both Iran and Pakistan see the socalled Islamic State, which has an embryonic presence in South Asia, as a threat. As trade between Iran and Pakistan grows, New Delhi and Tehran aim to push forward the laggard Chabahar port project, which has been portrayed as a competitor to Gwadar and a means through which India can access Afghanistan and Central Asia without using the Pakistanbased land route. India and Iran also also looking to push forward rail and road projects connecting Chabahar to Afghanistan. But expectations of what New Delhi and Tehran can achieve together should be tempered by reality: Indian contractors are inefficient, and the bureaucracies of both countries are bloated, notoriously difficult to negotiate with, and move at a glacial pace. Even if India and Iran are able to do magic in Afghanistan and Central Asia, the region is moving away from zero-sum games and hard alliances. In fact, Zarif has said that Iran has no objections to Gwadar port and emphasized that no country, including India, could undermine Pakistan's importance for Iran. A reversion to the hard Iran-India and PakistanSaudi Arabia alliances of the 1990s is unlikely. IranPakistan relations are increasingly defined by economic realism - and that will produce dividends for the internal security of both countries. Arif Rafiq (@arifcrafiq) is president of Vizier Consulting, LLC, which provides strategic guidance on Middle East and South Asian political and security issues.
Traffic Congestion Sir, On the Indian roads, traffic problems like congestion, unpredictable travel-time delays and road-accidents, are a matter of grave concern. Road traffic conditions in India are getting worse day by day. Most of the Indian cities are reeling under problems of severe air pollution and traffic congestion. The urban population is growing at a much higher rate than which is manageable due to changing economic scenario and aspirations of the people. The average number of vehicles in India has been growing at the rate 10.16 percent annually since the last five years. Spending hours in traffic jams has become part and parcel of metropolitan life style, leading to health and environmental hazards. The vehicle penetration in places like Dibrugarh too has had its impact on the people here too. The daily commuting time on the roads of Dibrugarh is becoming longer and more grueling day by day, depicting the failure of the administration to keep pace with the growing urban activities in the town. Unfortunately this has led to problems of severe air pollution and traffic congestion. There could be two approaches to solving this prob-
lem. First and the most obvious solution would be to come up with infrastructure like wider roads, flyovers and bypasses. But for developing countries like India, money and space are serious concerns. The second approach would be to manage existing traffic with the same infrastructure, with the use of technology and by involving commuters in the process. Yours etc. Neha Sharma Dibrugarh
Best Letter The best letter of the month in the Letter to the Editor section will be awarded an amount of Rs 200. So please keep writing. Letters to the editor and articles should be sent to : The Eastern Today Chowkidingee, Near Sankardeva Hospital Mancotta Road, Dibrugarh-786003 (Assam) Ph: 0373-2328944 Web : editor.easterntoday@gmail.com
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Chetan Bhagat launches second Govt's Greed For Privatisation: The Hidden Link political non fiction Behind "Chaotic" Academic Reforms Sunand Singh
Chetan Bhagat's new book, Making India Awesome, highlights topics related to disruptions in Parliament, democratic deadlock and poignant questions of what can be done to make the country become better. Topics related to disruptions in Parliament, democratic deadlock and poignant questions of what can be done to make the country become better marked the launch of the second non fiction by Chetan Bhagat on Wednesday. In Making India Awesome the eighth book so far by Bhagat, the author attempts to analyse and provides inspired solutions to the country's most intractable problems poverty, unemployment, corruption, violence against women, communal violence, religious fundamentalism and illiteracy. Bhagat roped in politicians Baijayant Panda (BJD), Milind Deora (Congress) and Shaina NC from the ruling BJP into a panel discussion, which began with a deliberation on the increase of polarisation of the society. While Jay Panda pointed to
the need of systemic rules and changes to ensure the smooth running of Parliament, Deora suggested making Parliamentary performance an electoral issue to ensure a mature form of democracy. Shania and Deora took potshots about which party, the Congress or the BJP had played a greater role in disrupting Parliament and not letting it function. Bhagat asked each of them on what made them tick in their chosen profession and how they changed in their personal journeys. Jay Panda talked about coming from a non political background and getting involved in weekend activism and entry finally into mainstream journalism. Shania talked about gender stereotypes working against her, a fashion designer and social activist getting into politics. Deora spoke about how he was written off for playing the guitar. Describing the making of his second book Bhagat called it a "crazy time". "It has been a crazy time for me the last few years. I am not the best author but the best selling author and if
that is ok with my publisher and that is ok with me. It is a great place to be," Bhagat said. The author who recently was judge on the popular dance reality show "Nach Baliye" said he participated in reality shows, and did other things like dancing all with a view to reach out to a larger number of people. "I do it for a reason I do it reach my country reach people and hopefully they will pick up and read my colums....that is what has happened actually. "What keeps me going is trying to be the voice that makes a difference in really help in making a better society and a better country," Bhagat said. Bhagat's second non fiction comes three years after his first book, "What India wants" a collection of essays and columns. "We have seen a lot in these three years. We saw a lot of protests, created a new political party. We have a new Chief Minister in the state, a new Prime Minister in the country yet things are not changing as much as we thought" Bhagat said.
Students of Delhi have given a resounding 'NO' to unplanned, chaotic and disastrous academic reforms that are being imposed in the last few years, the latest of which is the Choice Based Credit System (CBCS). In the referendum organized by Students' Federation of India (SFI) in 18 colleges of Delhi University (DU) and in Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI) - 91.89% out of 12769 students in DU & 93.97% out of 1813 students in JMI voted against CBCS. Referendum as a mode of policy level intervention is unique since it gives numerous individuals to have a collective say in processes to which only a privileged few have access to. This referendum was preceded by intensive campaign ever since the new academic session started. The increasing appeal of the campaign invited attacks from organizations like Akhil Bhartiya Vidhyarthi Parishad (ABVP) and National Students' Union of India (NSUI) in many places during the campaign. Daily Experience Of Student Life And Policy Level Linkages The result is only a reflection of the students' own experience in which 'choice' has proven to be a farce. Even after nearly a month of the new session, there are no syllabi and books available for most of the courses, and there is an utter sense of academic chaos. It is also a reflection of the fact that students indeed want 'skills' and 'employability', but they are not ready to accept diluted courses in the name of this. A few days ago, fresh guidelines were issued
which give complete authority to the V-C to decide the syllabi of courses. Further, the college principals have been given authority to decide the Generic Electives (GEs) offered to students, effectively eroding 'choice'. The duration of each teaching period for 1st year students will be now 1 hour, while that of 2nd and 3rd year students will continue to be of 55 minutes each. This will mean that all timetables will have to be made again and there will be utter chaos. There are indications that the endsemester practical exams for science courses will be scrapped, which will lead to further dilution. Engineering A Rupture In The Neoliberal Consensus There exists a perfect consensus among the various ruling class political parties in our country on the logic that privatization is the only solution to higher edu-
cation requirements. Even though the apologists of 'reforms' might claim that FYUP and CBCS are different things, the fact remains that Semesterization, FYUP, meta-colleges and CBCS are all part of the overall neoliberal agenda to achieve a homogenous higher education system and ensure mobility. These processes are intrinsically linked to Indian government's plans of providing a 'level playing field' to private and foreign educational providers in the light of ensuing Nairobi rounds of WTO-GATS talks in December later this year. UPA1 had already shown its willingness to offer higher education as a 'service good' under GATS in 2005. It is interesting to note that right now except ABVP and Chhatra Yuva Sangharsh Samiti (CYSS);
all students' and teachers' organizations are against CBCS. While ABVP is in support of these 'reforms', CYSS claims to be 'neither for CBCS, nor against it'. If we see the trajectory of the anti-FYUP movement, then one thing becomes clear that correct intervention can force even staunch supporters of the neo-liberal model to come against it even though it is for their own temporary political gain. During FYUP, ABVP was against it throughout, while NSUI changed sides when the government changed at centre. It was possible only because of the sustained campaign that eventually FYUP had to be rolled back. Yet, the same 'reforms' are again back after one year, albeit in a new package this time. What does this tells us? This tells us that even though the movement was strong enough to highlight
one specific and temporary aspect of the 'reform' agenda; it was not able to make popular the comprehensive critique of the whole process. It was not able to link the changes in the university to the large changes in the labour market or in the school education at a scale which can create a rupture in the neoliberal consensus on education. It is with this perspective in mind that we must move ahead and work towards channelizing the collective mandate of the student community. The momentum from this referendum will be taken forward in the form of vibrant student resistance starting right from the classes and departments of the students. We resolve to carry forward this momentum through concrete and consistent actions that expands the students' unity at every step.
For Those Interested In Creating Social Impact: 7 Diploma Courses You Could Check Out Shivani Chimnani Part-time diploma courses have proven to be a massive hit across the country. Thousands of students enroll for a variety of part time diploma courses alongside their degree to enhance their knowledge in their preferred field and to have an edge over their peers. A very popular form of education in recent years, a diploma can serve a much larger purpose than what it seems. It is distinct from a degree in many aspects; first, it is a short term course that focuses on training a person in a particular field. When it comes to relevance, diplomas face societal stigma and are regarded frivolous, but people often tend to overlook the myriad purposes a diploma can serve. We often feel the need to create prominent social impact or undertake something philanthropic to serve a bigger purpose or work for the greater good, but something always comes up, be it time, sloth, incapacity, or mere unwillingness. Maybe it's time to shrug it off and do good, and a diploma can assist you in that! In recent times, many universities have started offering diploma courses which enable a person to contribute substantially to the society. These courses render a person skilled and equipped to deal with crisis in society. Here are some diploma courses which can aid in creating considerable social impact: 1) Conflict Transformation and Peace Building, LSR, Delhi: Conflict transformation is a prescriptive concept. It suggests that conflict can have dire conse-
quences. However, the consequences can be modified so that social relationships and structures improve as a result of conflict instead of being harmed by it. The Diploma Course is a one year integrated programme. It is offered to undergraduate and graduate students, NGO workers, media persons and grassroots workers. Any person holding an undergraduate Degree (BA/ B.Sc./B.Tech) with minimum 60% marks in 10+2. (5% relaxation for SC/ST candidate) is eligible. Those pursuing final year of under-graduation can also apply. 2) Diploma in Renewable Energy, TERI University, Delhi: The power crisis being not so far away and the
country edging towards the brink of exhaustion, the need for effective renewable energy sources is indispensable. While renewable energy systems on a large scale are an important step for keeping national and international infrastructures intact, it's also important to understand the scalability of renewable energy solutions. The course, developed in collaboration with UK Open University and Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, Government of India, combines theoretical concepts with more than 30 years of research and policy advice undertaken in TERI on Renewable energy. The course is one year long and graduates in any stream are eligible to apply. The admis-
sion opens twice a year: May and November 3) Diploma in Human Rights, International, Humanitarian and Refugee Laws - The Indian Society of International Law (ISIL), Delhi: Human rights are the heart of progress in any society. Human rights education jolts awareness of rights, remedies and the highlights the global perspective and opinion of different fundamental rights. ISIL's ten-month Post Graduate course, which was started in the year 1999, runs in collaboration with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) and National Human Rights
Commission of India (NHRC). The whole course is conducted over two semesters - August to December and January to April. Any graduate can apply for the course. 4) Diploma in Life Skills, Sexuality and Personal Safety Education, Christ University: The course is one year long and offered by Christ University, Bangalore. The course primarily elucidates the importance of sexual health (i.e. development of reproductive system, sexual development, gynecological and male reproductive system disorders, etc.). The course further dwells into the importance of awareness of child sexual abuse and sexual harassment as well as various aspects of child
and adolescent psychology. The graduate diploma is open to all those who have passed class 12 and the PG diploma is open to graduates and above. 5) Graduate Certificate in Public Policy-Takshashila Institution: The study of public policy is a compelling confluence of the subjects of economics, law, political science, moral science and various other disciplines. The program provides a thorough understanding of the facets of public policy and its application in daily life. The course well equips the students with the essentials of public policy making process which is helpful in professional as well as personal life. The course duration is 12 weeks and a bachelor's degree in any field is a prerequisite. Primarily an online course, it conducts two weekend workshops in Bangalore. It is currently not affiliated with any educational board or certification. 6) Post Graduate Diploma in Philosophy of Communal Harmony and Social Peace, Mumbai University:
Communal division has been intrinsic in every activity of Indian society hindering the growth and progress of independent India since 1947. Till date, one encounters a large number of problems in day to day functioning because of the vast communal estrangement. The course provides a thorough and detailed analysis of the causes of communalism in India, the societal structure of various religions and how communalism can be combated for smooth functioning of the country. The course is spread over one year on a part time basis and a graduate student from any discipline is eligible to apply. 7) Post Graduate Diploma in Disaster Preparedness & Response, TISS Mumbai: With the advent of global warming accompanied by acute climatic change, natural disasters are soon to be common occurrences. Effective innovations and methods ought to be formulated to mitigate the impact of such disasters. The course enshrines the importance of disaster manage-
ment in consonance with the country's development, various scientific methods and technologies adopted for reduction and mitigation of natural disasters, the different approaches the community can adopt for contributing towards disaster management. The course is open to any person holding a bachelor's degree in any stream, however candidates interested in working with victims of a disaster situation for a minimum of one year are preferred. Social impact diploma courses are of supreme importance to facilitate social development. If ordinary persons are stocked with the essential skills to undertake tasks which are sure to make social, economic & political progress, then social change won't be a distant dream. As members of the society we are obligated to carry out our duty and responsibility to the society even in the slightest way possible. But, we often attribute incapacity and lack of skills as an excuse for our inability to contribute to the society. Well, say no more.
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DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, AUGUST 21
Snapdeal losses shoot up five times Noida, Aug 20: E-tailer Snapdeal's valuations may have risen from around $2 billion to $4.7 billion in a matter of a year but so have its loss - which shot up five times - as the Delhi-based company doled out discounts to grab buyers and acquired companies at hefty valuations. Data accessed by agencies from Hong Kong Stock Exchange showed that Snapdeal's loss rose from around Rs 270 crore in March 2014 to nearly Rs 1,350 crore in March 2015 as the company shelled out $25 million (over 150
crore) a month as discounts and marketing expenses. Snapdeal may not be an isolated case. The situation, industry experts say, is similar across e-commerce segment, and is not confined to India alone. For instance, Amazon emerged as the world's largest etailer recently and has been commanding a hefty premium even on stock markets, despite reporting a surprise profit last month after several quarters of losses. Other top e-tailers in India are also going through similar situation as Amazon in India clocked a
net loss of about Rs 320 crore after its first year of operation (2013-14), while Flipkart reported a loss of Rs 400 crore in FY-14, according to filings with Registrar of Companies (RoC). The latest numbers for FY15 are not available yet with RoC. The Rs 1,350 crore loss incurred by Snapdeal alone in 2014-15 is striking as the top three players - Flipkart, Amazon and Snapdeal put together had suffered a loss of around Rs 1000 in 201314. However, Flipkart's valuation has shot up to $15 billion as it commands
LOSING STREAK E-tailer Snapdeal's valuations may have risen from around $2 billion to $4.7 billion in a matter of a year but so have its loss - which shot up five times. 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 Data accessed by agencies from Hong Kong Stock Exchange showed that 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 Snapdeal's loss rose from around Rs 270 crore in March 2014 to nearly Rs 1,350 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 crore in March 2015 as the company shelled out $25 million (over 150 crore) a 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 month as discounts and marketing expenses. 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 Other top e-tailers in India are also going through similar situation as Amazon in India clocked a net loss of about Rs 320 crore after its first year of operation (2013-14), while Flipkart reported a loss of Rs 400 crore in FY-14, according to filings with Registrar of Companies (RoC). 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 The Rs 1,350 crore loss incurred by Snapdeal alone in 2014-15 is striking 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 as the top three players - Flipkart, Amazon and Snapdeal put together had suffered 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 a loss of around Rs 1000 in 2013-14. 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 However, Flipkart's valuation has shot up to $15 billion as it commands the largest market share in India. 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 Snapdeal, which closed at $3.5 billion of GMV last month, is aiming to 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345 topple Flipkart with a $9-10 billion target by the same time. 12345678901234567890123456789012123456789012345678901234567890121234567890123456789012345678901212345
RBI's nod for payment banks licencses, a significant move: Jaitley Mumbai, Aug 20: Terming the RBI's move to grant payment banks licences to 11 applicants as 'significant' and 'important', Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Wednesday said this would not only ensure that money was brought into the banking system, but also enable banks to reach out to more people in rural areas. "The RBI giving payments banks licences is a significant and important step. Payments banks will ensure more money comes into the banking system. Various banks are looking at increasing their rural reach, including big banks like the SBI, payments banks will help them realise this," Mr Jaitley said. The move was also welcomed by the industry and analysts who called it 'an assertive step towards financial inclusion'. (Agencies)
$483m worth of stake in SoftBank to be bought by Group's president Tokyo, Aug 20: SoftBank Group president Nikesh Arora said he is buying about 60 billion yen ($483 million) worth of the company's shares over the next six months, calling it a show of "commitment" to his employer. "I have decided to take a personal bet on the SoftBank Group and ensure an alignment of vision with our founder, chairman and CEO Masayoshi Son," Arora said in a press release from SoftBank. Arora plans to buy the shares in the open market. At the closing price of 7,477 yen on Wednesday in Tokyo, his cash would buy just over 8 million shares for a 0.69% stake in SoftBank, making him the second biggest individual investor after Son, who welcomed the investment from his anointed successor. "I expect him to succeed me at the appropriate time," Son said in the press release. (Agencies)
Bengaluru, Aug 20: Indian IT continues to increase its share of the global outsourcing market. In the first half of this year, they were significant gainers in terms of the number of deals they won. And the gains have come largely at the expense of European service providers. Indian IT firms grew their market
the largest market share in India. But, Flipkart too is burning about $40 million per month in measures such as discounts, marketing and customer acquisition, with eyes on touching GMV (gross merchandise value - an industry jargon to a measure value of goods sold on the online marketplace) of $8 billion by the year-end. Snapdeal, which closed at $3.5 billion of GMV last month, is aiming to topple Flipkart with a $9-10 billion target by the same time. "There is continuing interest in Indian ecommerce but investors now are also asking companies to start looking at profits or at-least look at
reduction of losses but the scenario is opposite. Coming months would be more crucial in terms of how they perform because Reliance and Tata are preparing to disrupt the market," Arvind Singhal of Technopack, a consultancy firm, said. According to industry experts, investors so far have not bothered much about profits but the real numbers of these companies are being screened. This has been a key reason why Snapdeal's latest fundraise dragged over months and had to settle down at a valuation of $4.7 billion instead of $7 billion, sources said. (Agencies)
Indian IT firms grew their market share (in contracts awarded) to 27.1% in the January-June period from 23.6% in the first half of last year. 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 TCS, Infosys, Wipro and Tech Mahindra were 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 among those who won deals in excess of $25 million 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 each. 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 The share of big European IT firms - including Capgemini, T-Systems, British Telecom and Atos dropped to 16.4%, from 22.3%. 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 US firms registered a growth in share to 18.1% 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 from 16.7%, as per data from IT outsourcing advisory 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 firm ISG.
Hyderabad, Aug 20: Andhra Bank's strategy of laying stronger focus on the services segment for MSME (micro, small and medium enterprise) credit has paid dividends. At a time when agriculture segment is impacted by the debt waiver schemes and mid and large corporate segment is still under stress due to macro-economic scenario, MSME segment has posted strong growth for the bank. Andhra Bank started focusing on small ticket loans of Rs.5 crore in the services segment in the MSME segment in the past two years. As a conse-
quence of this, bank's MSME credit portfolio has posted strong doubled digit. "Services sector is coming up a in a big way. Industries such as food processing, some auto ancillaries and hotels and restaurants, among others, are targeted for MSME loans," S.K.Kalra, Managing Director & CEO of Andhra Bank, said here after inaugurating a NextGen branch. "Our focus this year will be on MSME and retail, and we expect these two segments to record at least 2-3 per cent higher growth than other categories," he added. During Q1
GROWTH PORTFOLIO
bal economic slowdown. Foxconn Chairman Terry Gou has been quoted as saying that he has been impressed by Mr. Modi's 'Make in India,' 'Digital India, and 'Skill India' campaigns. The Taiwanese company, which has been known as a contract manufacturer for Apple's i-Phone and other leading smartphone brands, has ambitious plans in India. Mr. Gou hopes to establish 10-12 manufacturing hubs in India, which can yield a million jobs by 2020. Foxconn has already tied up with Xiaomi - a leading Chinese smartphone maker - which has rolled out its
first made-in-India Redmi2 Prime devise on August 10. The company's plant is located in Andhra Pradesh, whose Chief Minister, N. Chandrababu Naidu, has been focused in seeking investments from China. "Boasting a massive market and low labour costs, India has become a perfect arena for Chinese companies to transfer excess capacity or maintain low manufacturing costs." The daily, however anticipates some hiccups in ties as global manufacturing begins to shift from China towards India. "As economic ties strengthen, frictions will increase. Nonetheless, this
is an unavoidable path for an emerging economy hoping to become the factory of the world. China has been there. Now it's India's turn." Besides Andhra Pradesh, Foxconn has chosen Maharashtra as one of its favoured investment destinations. The company intends to pump $5 billion dollars in factories, as well as research and development facilities in Maharashtra, which could yield nearly 50,000 jobs. Taiwanese media has earlier reported that Foxconn could establish production sites for LED TVs and batteries, as well as a data centre in India. (Agencies)
New Delhi, Aug 20: Low cost carrier, Spice Jet has launched a sale of more than 1,00,000 domestic seats, with one way fares starting as low as Rs 799 (excluding taxes), said the airline in a release issued on Thursday. An additional 10% per cent discount will be available for those booking through SpiceJet's mobile app on Apples iOS and Android. The oneway fare for this sale ranges from Rs 799 to Rs 2,699 and covers popular destinations such as Delhi, Mumbai, Goa, Bengaluru, Srinagar, and many more, the release added. "The lowest fare of Rs 799 is available on routes such as Delhi-Chandigarh, Mumbai-Goa, Bengaluru-Kochi, Madurai-Chennai, Jammu-Srinagar, Kolkata-Agartala and many more," said the airline release. The three day sale starts from August 20 and will remain open till midnight, August 22. The travel period covered in this sale is August 25 to March 26, 2016. The sale is valid only for direct flights within SpiceJet's domestic network. (Agencies) Pune, Aug 20: Ahead of the festive season, thousands of new packaged food products are expected to hit the retail shelves following the Supreme Court verdict that termed the FSSAI's advisory on product approvals as illegal and arbitrary. In today's rapidly changing consumer preference, where speed to market is a must for attaining competitive advantage, delays in product approval by the government regulator was rendering food companies uncompetitive. Such de-
lays by the FSSAI, at times, ran into several months for new products, resulting in companies having to go back to the drawing board stage only to reapply for approvals. A multitude of new product applications were caught in the spiral of pending product approvals at the regulator, causing delays and virtually frustrating companies. "A lot of product approvals which were on hold, would now go through. However, it is also the responsibility of the industry to ensure safe
food which uses ingredients allowed under the Indian laws," said Piruz Khambatta, CMD, Rasna. An industry expert said while most progressive countries have moved away from the policy of seeking product approvals towards a monitoring regime, India continued to follow the regressive policy which not only hindered innovation but also did not assure food safety. Considering that packaged foods were at a nascent stage, innovation was getting hampered due to
and Atos - dropped to 16.4%, from 22.3%. The firm could not provide similar proportional data for the total contract value, but given past trends and the extent of gains in the number of contracts this year, it would be reasonable to assume that Indian IT has also gained in the value market share. US firms registered a growth in share to 18.1% from 16.7%, as per data from IT outsourcing advisory firm ISG. The firm could not provide similar proportional data for the total contract value, but given past trends and the extent of gains in the number of contracts this year, it would be reasonable to assume that Indian IT also gained in the value market share. (Agencies)
Andhra Bank's MSME growth helped by services sector
1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 During Q1 of this fiscal, Andhra Bank's 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 MSME credit portfolio grew by 21 per cent at 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 Rs.22,537 crore.
SpiceJet launches lowly priced sale of more than 1,00,000 seats
New food items likely to hit the shelves this festive season
share (in contracts awarded) to 27.1% in the January-June period from 23.6% in the first half of last year. TCS, Infosys, Wipro and Tech Mahindra were among those who won deals in excess of $25 million each. The share of big European IT firms including Capgemini, TSystems, British Telecom
WHEN THE TOUGH GETS GOING
Modi's 'Make in India' campaign may be boosted by Taiwan's Foxconn and Chinese partners Taiwan, Aug 20: Taiwanese giant Foxconn is emerging at the heart of a new manufacturing ecosystem in India, raising hopes that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's fledgling 'Make in India' campaign may acquire some hi-tech wings. On Tuesday, Foxconn's subsidiary FIH Mobile, announced a $200 million investment in Jasper Infotech - the owner and operator of India's rising online retail platform, Snapdeal. Japan's SoftBank and China's Alibaba group are also a part of the e-commerce venture, signalling that Foxconn is teaming up with the mainland's hi-tech heavyweights to jump start India's manufacturing and marketing of world-class consumer electronics. Mr. Modi's goal is to bolster India's manufacturing, so that it can make a 25 per cent contribution to the gross domestic product by 2022. World Bank figures show that, nearly 31 per cent of Chinese GDP comes from manufacturing. However, the Chinese share in manufacturing is going downhill, as labour costs spike, and exports dry up, following the on-going glo-
Indian IT companies grow against global competition
The bank has now set a target to reduce its net NPA to below 2.5 per cent before the end of this 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 fiscal. 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 Net NPA stood at 2.99 per cent as of June 30, 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 2015, Andhra Bank planned to add 600 officers and 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123 1,600 clerical staff to its rolls this year. 1234567890123456789012345678901212345678901234567890123456789012123
of this fiscal, Andhra Bank's MSME credit portfolio grew by 21 per cent at Rs.22,537 crore. Mr.Kalra also said agriculture portfolio was showing progress after going through stress due to debt waiver schemes announced in Seeamandhra and Telangana. "Recovery has already started as issues are more or less settled," he added. It has now set a target to reduce its net NPA to below 2.5 per cent before the end of this fiscal. Net NPA stood at 2.99 per cent as of June 30, 2015, Andhra Bank planned to add 600 officers and 1,600 clerical staff to its rolls this year. Of which, 400 officers have joined and 1,300 clerical staff are in the process of joining. The bank also intends to add 450 new branches, all of which will be NextGen branches, during this fiscal. About threefourth of the new branches will come up outside Seemandhra and Telangana states. (Agencies)
India's mobile services market to touch $21.4 billion New Delhi, Aug 20: Mobile connections in India will grow by 5 per cent this year, taking the total number of connections to 880 million from 837 million connections last year, said a study from Gartner. With the growth in mobile connectivity, the spending on mobile services will grow 4 per cent to reach $21.4 billion in 2015, it added. According to Gartner, the spending on mobile services will be driven by data services, which is expected to grow 15 per cent to reach $6.5 million in 2015. Major segment of the growth will be driven by the increasing use of cellular services on data-centric devices, such as tablets and notebooks. "Mobile data provides a substantial revenue opportunity in India. Communication service providers (CSPs) will need to focus on creating new pricing, with a focus on data access, such as shared plans. They will also need to refine the services they already provide, with a focus on creating richer, more immersive and more personalised experiences,
to increase their customer numbers," said Neha Gupta, Senior Research Analyst at Gartner. Some of the major reasons cited for the growth in data services are faster networks, a rise in the number of users and more affordable smart phones. It also said the spending on data services will be heavily driven by mobile video applications. "In the current scenario
applications and content are driving traffic volumes as people increasingly chat to friends and family, watch videos on the move, and listen to streamed music," added the report. As the mobile app market matures, app developers will have to sharpen their focus on the marketing and transparency of their apps to retain customers. (Agencies)
the earlier policy dictated by FSSAI. Among a few other companies, Hindustan Unilever (HUL) had recently withdrawn its Chinese range of instant noodles till such time it received product approval from the FSSAI. An HUL spokesperson said: "We will make all efforts to make the products available for our consumers at the earliest." The HUL spokesperson said the company will continue to work with the regulators through the industry bodies to ensure that "we
move towards a transparent and objective regulatory mechanism which first and foremost protects consumer safety and interests while at
the same time incentivizing innovation and growth of the packaged foods industry in India". (Agencies)
"I think it is very important to have a full-time coach for any team. We have taken some time to decide and, most probably, in the month of September we will finalise the coach. (Ravi) Shastri is holding the position of Director for the last few months and he has done well with the Indian cricket team.”
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Anurag Thakur
David Warner steers Australia to 184/2 at Tea
London: After a century opening stand between David Warner and Chris Rogers, Steven Smith combined with Warner, and later Michael Clarke, to keep Australia flowing to get to a meaty first-innings total. Rogers fell trying to chase a ball outside off stump and provided a catch to Alastair Cook in the slips. Warner edged off-spinner Moeen Ali to slip for 85. Australia finished at 184 for 2 at tea, a session dominated by boundaries from Warner. Rogers, who will retire at the
end of this match, completed 2000 Test runs during the course of his innings. He looked comfortable at the crease but failed to captilize on the start. Warner and Smith then played slowly, before settling in to effect a few boundaries off Steven Finn, Ben Stokes and Ali, who eventually claimed Warner’s wicket before the pugnacious left-hander could get to a century. Clarke playing his last test has looked comfortable so far in his short stay. (Agencies)
Saina regains No. 1 ranking; Kashyap rises two places to 8
Hyderabad: Saina Nehwal is back at No 1 in the world badminton rankings. The London Olympics bronze medallist displaced Spain's Carolina Marin, who defeated her in the women's final of the World Championships in Jakarta last Sunday. The 26-year-old Indian, who took the No. 1 slot for the first time in March after her maiden triumph at the Indian Open, has 82,792 points in the latest BWF rankings, released on Thursday. She surrendered the top spot soon after taking it for the first time, but regained it in May before being dethroned by Marin in June. Marin is second on the list with 80612
points. P V Sindhu, who lost to in the quarter-finals at the World Championships to Korea's Sung Ji Hyun, dropped a rung to 14. The Indian, twice World Championships bronze medallist, has 45690 points. In the men's singles, Parupalli Kashyap rose two places to No. 8 following his quarter-final finish at the World Championships. India Open winner Kidambi Srikanth, however, dropped a slot and is placed at 5. India's rising men's doubles pair of Manu Attri-B Sumeeth Reddy slipped to 22 after losing five places. There are no Indians in the top 25 of the mixed doubles category. (Agencies)
Sri Lanka fight back with late strikes after Rahul ton Colombo: Opener Lokesh Rahul scored a fighting century as India recovered from early jitters to post 319 for six in their first innings on Day 1 of the second Test against Sri Lanka, in Colombo, on Thursday. Electing to bat, the visitors lost opener Murali Vijay and Ajinkya Rahane , surprisingly promoted to number three, with only 12 runs on the board before young Rahul and skipper Virat Kohli revived the innings in an attractive 164-run partnership for the third wicket. Rohit Sharma also chipped in with a strokeful 79, but was dismissed at the fag end of an engrossing opening day's play that saw both the teams share the honours. In registering his second Test hundred Rahul faced 190 balls, hitting 13 boundaries and a six in the process. Kohli, also looked good before he was unlucky to miss out on his 12th Test hundred after rival skipper Angelo Mathews took a smart diving catch off Rangana Herath's bowling. He scored 78 off 107 balls,
and the duo started the repair work cautiously. Rahul got a reprieve when he was on 11 and made the most of it. In the first session of the day, he was lucky as Jehan Mubarak failed to take a regulation catch at gully off Chameera as soon as he was introduced in the eighth over. India went to lunch at 97 for two as the Kohli-Rahul pair added 85 runs by then. Post-lunch, the pair carried on their partnership in a bid to build the Indian innings further. Kohli registered his 11th Test fifty off 63 balls immediately after the break and in doing so also brought up the 100-mark for India in the 28th over. While he looked fluent until the landmark, he suddenly appeared edgy for a brief period of play thereafter. He scored only two runs in 32 minutes during this passage of play, and it was left to Rahul to keep the scorecard ticking. The youngster didn't disappoint and reached his first Test fifty off 94 balls. Their 100-run partnership had
earlier come in the 29th over. At the other end, the captain broke the shackles with two consecutive boundaries off Chameera and was looking good for more. But, just then, against the run of play, he fell to a stupendous, onehanded, diving catch to the right by Mathews off the bowling of Herath in the 44th over. As he walked off dejected, Rohit walked in and negotiated the 8.3 overs remaining before tea. He started off nervously, pushing and prodding the ball, but hit a six and a four off Herath in the penultimate over before tea. India made three changes for this second Test, with Vijay coming in for the injured Shikhar Dhawan. Umesh Yadav and Stuart Binny replaced Varun Aaron and Harbhajan Singh respectively in the playing eleven. Sri Lanka also made one change, with fitagain Dushmantha Chameera coming in for the injured Nuwan Pradeep. (Agencies)
Amla's ton helps Proteas win
BCCI felicitates retiring Sangakkara
Centurian: A century from Hashim Amla laid the foundation for home success on Wednesday as South Africa beat New Zealand by 20 runs to win their opening one-day international at Centurion. Amla displayed the form that had him rated the world's best batsman as he mastered the bowling on a slow track and scored 124 for South Africa to open with 304 for seven in their stipulated 50 overs. Amla scored his 21st ODI century and featured in a 185-run partnership for the second wicket with Rilee Rossouw, who tempered his usual aggressive style to build a steady innings before being bowled in the 42nd over for 89. It proved a positive start after New Zealand had won the toss and sent the hosts into bat. But a chance of a much bigger score, on the same pitch where they lost to New Zealand in a Twenty20 international on Sunday, disappeared as South Africa lost five wickets in their
Team India to have new coach in Sept Colombo: Board of Control for Cricket in India secretary Anurag Thakur has confirmed that a call on India's new chief coach will be taken in September, in consultation with the Cricket Advisory Committee, before the start of the South Africa home series in October. South Africa will play four Tests, five ODIs and three T20Is during their 72-day tour of India. Thakur said the decision on the appointment of the new coach has been left to the Cricket Advisory Committee, comprising Sachin Tendulkar, Sourav Ganguly and VVS Laxman. "I think it is very important to have a full-time coach for any team. We have taken some time to decide and, most probably, in the month of September we will finalise the coach. (Ravi) Shastri is hold-
ing the position of Director for the last few months and he has done well with the Indian cricket team. The boys have given us a good feedback about him, so the only issue is if we want a full-time coach then what would be the set-up. We can't be having ten people with the Indian cricket team. So we have left it to the Cricket Advisory
Chelsea pull off dramatic swoop to sign Barca's Pedro London: Chelsea have agreed to sign on striker Pedro from Barcelona in a deal reportedly worth about 22 million pounds. The 28-year-old is flying to London to finalise the terms and conditions on the transfer, local media has reported. Pedro has scored 99 goals in 326 appearances since his debut for the La Liga champions in 2008. He will be Chelsea's second signing after the Ghana defender Baba
Rahman. The move comes after Spain forward has been linked with a move to Manchester United. According to reports, Chelsea managed to pull off the coup after manager Jose Mourinho along with Pedro's former Barca teammate and current Chelsea regular, Cesc Fabregas, personally spoke to the Spain striker convincing him to move to London. (Agencies)
Table Tennis Championship ET Correspondent Dibrugarh, Aug 20: The 21st All Assam Ranking Table Tennis Championship will be organized by Milan Jyoti Sangha in association with Dibrugarh District Sports Association under the aegis of Assam Table Tennis Association from Aug 21 to 23 at the DDSA indoor stadium.
Committee to decide how many people will be required, how many coaches will be required, whether a bowling coach, a batting coach, a full-time coach or a director. Let them take a call, come back to the BCCI in September and before the South Africa series I can assure you that we will take a call on that." (Agencies)
which was inclusive of eight boundaries and a six. Under-fire Rohit Sharma, however, justified the immense faith shown in him by the team management as he somewhat redeemed himself with a stylish knock after failing in both innings of the 63-run defeat at Galle. The Indian team management's decision to try out Stuart Binny as an all-rounder did not work well as the Karnataka player looked totally out of sorts during his 40-ball knock before playing a terrible shot which brought about his downfall. Play was called off immediately after Sharma's dismissal. At stumps, Wriddhiman Saha was unbeaten on 19. Earlier, Kohli won the toss and decided to bat on a hard strip that had some bounce and carry. Vijay, who missed the last Test due to hamstring injury, had a forgettable comeback as Dhamika Prasad trapped him leg-before with a delivery that came in a shade after pitching in line with the stumps. In order to
shield Rohit from the new ball, the dependable Rahane was sent in at the crucial number 3 position and he started off with a boundary. However, Prasad
got him with an outswinger as he tried to drive on the up and was caught in the slips by Dimuth Karunaratne. Skipper Kohli then joined Rahul
SCORECARD
last eight overs. New Zealand kept up with the required run rate for most of their chase but lost wickets at key intervals and were bowled out for 284 in the 49th over. South Africa made an immediate breakthrough on the New Zealand batting as Dale Steyn had Luke Ronchi caught behind at the end of the first over after seeing two earlier deliveries dropped. New Zealand then set about chasing down the target with Tom Latham and captain Kane Williamson amassing 104 runs
for the second wicket before Williamson was caught at extra cover for 47 off spinner Imran Tahir. Latham was the fifth wicket to fall halfway to the target as he walked across his stumps to a straight ball and was caught leg before. But the Kiwis kept up the pressure with fighting contributions from James Neesham and Colin Munro, who might have been able to take their team past the target had they been more patient. The second ODI is in Potchefstroom on Sunday.
South Africa M. van Wyk c N McCullum b McClenaghan 16 H. Amla b Milne 124 R. Rossouw b McClenaghan 89 A. de Villiers c Latham b Milne 9 D. Miller c Milne b Neesham 14 F. Behardien run out (Ronchi/McClenaghan) 15 D. Wiese run out (McClenaghan) 14 V. Philander not out 0 Extras (b-4 lb-4 w-15) 23 Total (for 7 wickets, 50 overs) 304 Bowling N. McCullum 5-0-29-0 A. Milne 10-0-51-2 M. McClenaghan 10-1-722 J. Neesham 7-0-47- 1 I. Sodhi 10 - 1 - 55 - 0 G. Elliott 4-0-23-0 C. Munro 4-0-19-0 New Zealand T. Latham lbw b Philander
60 L. Ronchi c Amla b Steyn 1 K. Williamson c sub b Tahir 47 M. Guptill c Miller b Wiese 25 G. Elliott c Miller b Philander 4 J. Neesham c van Wyk b Wiese 41 C. Munro lbw b Tahir 33 N. McCullum c Behardien b Rabada 10 A. Milne not out 15 M. McClenaghan b Steyn 16 I. Sodhi run out (Philander/ Rabada) 0 Extras (b-5 lb-15 nb-2 w-10) 32 Total (all out, 48.1 overs) 284 Bowling D. Steyn 9-0-50-2 V. Philander 10-1-51-2 K. Rabada 9.1-0-49-1 I. Tahir 10-0-40-2 D. Wiese 7-0-63-2 F. Behardien 3-0-11-0
Asif, Butt can return to competitive cricket after Sep 1 Karachi: Pakistani cricketers Mohammad Asif and Salman Butt will be free to return to competitive action on Sept. 2 after serving bans for involvement in match-fixing, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has said. The pair, suspended in 2011 for their part in attempting to fix the 2010 Lord's Test against England, have fulfilled the conditions laid down by the ICC's independent AntiCorruption Tribunal. Fast bowler Mohammad Amir will also be eligible to return to international cricket
at the same time. He started playing domestic cricket again in Pakistan earlier this year. The three players were found guilty in 2011 of various offences of corrupt behaviour and their punishments were backdated to start in September 2010. Amir, 23, was banned for five years, 32-year-old Asif for seven with the final two years suspended on specified conditions and 30-year-old Butt, who was Pakistan captain, for 10 years with the last five suspended. They all served jail sentences. (Agencies)
Colmbo: The Board of Control for Cricket in India secretary Anurag Thakur, on Thursday, felicitated Sri Lanka's batting great Kumar Sangakkara before the start day's play of second Test in Colombo. "Kumar Sangakkara is a true legend of the game. His conduct both on and off the field has been exemplary. He is one of the most consistent performers of our times and a role model for youngsters around the world. On behalf of the BCCI, I would like to wish him the very best for his future endeavours," Thakur said. BCCI president Jagmohan Dalmiya also congratulated the wicketkeeperbatsman on his glorious career, which spanned over 15 years. "Kumar Sangakkara has not only been a true asset for Sri Lankan cricket but also a great ambassador for the game of cricket. I congratulate him on all his achievements and wish him a happy and successful life post retirement," said Dalmiya. In his 15-year international career, Sangakkara has so far scored 12,350 Test runs with 38 centuries at an average of 57.71. In 404 ODIs, he has scored 14,234 runs with 25 tons and a staggering 93 half-centuries. (Agencies)
2nd inter-village Solung Football Cup’15 begins Pasighat, Aug 20: The 2nd edition of Inter-Village Solung Football Cup’15 began today in the Pasighat Sports complex with the ADC Deepak Shinde kicking the football in the presence of Member of Parliament (LS) Ninong Ering, President CSFCC’15 Er. A Jonkey, Chairman (Sports) Oshong Doming, DSO (Sports) Nada Apa, General Jamoh and Tayon Dai President and Organizing Secretary of DFA and hundreds of soccer lovers. The Chief Guest Shinde conveying his greetings to the people on the occasion of ensuing Solung festival, prayed Solung Goddess for bumper harvest, peace and prosperity. Quoting Swami
Vivekananda’s Vani, Shinde advised the youths to show their best skills through discipline and sportsman spirit to foster deeper understanding and friendship throughout the tournament. While appreciating the organizing committee members, he said Solung is a festival of oneness and such tournaments would spread unity and oneness among different villages of the district. Earlier Guest of Honour Kaling Darang, PMC Dy. Chief Councilor in his address said that organizing games during the festivals not only entertains the people but it also helps to keep people physically fit. The tour-
nament is being sponsored by CSFCC’14 and organized by East Siang District Football Association (DFA) with technical support of DSO (Sports). The opening match played between Mongku and Boying ended in a 3-3 draw, adding much excitement. The first goal of the tournament was netted by Onyok Pajing of Mongku team and the first half ended Mongku-2 and Boying-1. 12 teams are participating and the winner (champion) and runners-up team would be awarded with fifty thousand and thirty thousand rupees respectively at the conclusion of the final scheduled on 31 August’15. (DIPRO)
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TRAVEL & TOURISM Explore the Cave Land of India Caves are one of the most fascinating charms of nature. Meghalaya is full of them. This State has got some of India's longest and oldest caves. Many are still inaccessible, but those which are, have been admired by all. Caves carry with them a rich knowledge of science, life and natural force. That makes it more interesting to know them. A quick look at some of Meghalaya's well known caves. Krem Mawmluh The main entrance of this famous cave is located at the bottom of the western flank of Lum Lawbah. The entrance is found by following the river behind the Mawmluh Cherra Cements Limited, downstream for about 200 metres to a point where the river disappears underground. The main sink entrance requires wading through water, which in the dry season turns into a deadly black quicksand from the effluents of the cements works. The best option to enter the cave would be through a high level bypass entrance which runs parallel to the main passage. Krem Dam The entrance of Krem Dam
lies at the foot of a large blind valley approximately 1 km to the east of Mawsynram village. The cave consists mainly of one very large river passage ending in a roof collapse where daylight can be seen. To the side of the main passage a complex maze of
side passages and oxbows exist. The cave has no significant calcite formations. Krem Lymput The cave is about 6 km
from Nongjri village. The inconspicuous entrance is hidden in the jungle. From the small entrance hole, the main trunk passage runs for about 1 km with inclined walls and ceiling towards west into a passage known as 'Way to Heaven," which is a very loose and
slippery climb. It leads into a series of spacious galleries which are very rich in calcite formations. Here, the great attraction is the Mughal Room (more than 25 m wide, 25 m high, and 75 m long). This cave is 6641m in length. Mawsmai Cave Located around 6 km from the Sohra market. This cave is the only cave that is fully lighted. The cave can be divided into two parts (old and new). Of the two, the new cave is yet to be lighted. It has impressive formations of large passages and chambers. Krem Mawjymbuin It is around 500 metres away from Mawsynram village, a metalled road on the left leads to a parking area by the cave. The entrance chamber is 50 metres across and 4 metres high at its centre. It has a large sta-
lactite over a female stalagmite which gives an impression of a Shiva Lingam. This cave has now become a sacred shrine for Hindu believers. A small stream flows under the left (east) wall of the chamber. A side passage leads to a second rift entrance, called
Back Entrance which exits through the rear. Another side passage at the rear of the chamber forms a series of small rift inlet passages that run north and then east for some 50 metres, before becoming too tight. Krem Liat Prah It is the longest natural cave in India. Liat Prah is one of approximately 150 known caves in the Shnongrim Ridge of the Jaintia Hills district in Meghalaya. Explored and surveyed as part of the ongoing Abode of the Clouds Expedition project, its current length is around 25 km. Liat Prah's dominant feature is its enormous trunk passage, the Aircraft Hangar. Synrang-Pamiang The cave entrance is situated north of Chiehruphi village, on NH 44, to Musianglamare. With
14,157 m of surveyed passage, it is currently India's 3rd longest cave. The cave has five entrances, the other four being Krem Musmari, Thloolong Cherlamet, Krem Eit Hati and Krem Khlieh Trai Lum. Tetengkol Balwakol Around 4km from Nengkhong village in Garo Hills, are two circular entrances of Tetengkol Balwakol which lead to 5.7 km of dendritic river cave which also contains a maze of stooping to walking size passages. For such a small entrance it is really amazing to find behind it, a large and sizeable cave Siju Cave Around 132 km from Tura, Siju is famous for Dobakkol or the bat cave with impressive stalagmites and stalagtites. It is one of the longest cave in the Indian Sub-continent and contains some of the finest river passages to be found anywhere in the world. Dangedikol Chiningkrikol The 18m wide and 12m high entrance leads to a largish meandering stream passage. The cave houses a large population of bats. With 1352m of surveyed length, the cave is still ongoing. Korekol A tunnel cave connecting a sink in the downstream end of valley in pinnacle karst to a resurgence at the rim of (the locally) shallow limestone outcrop below Matrongkol. An inspiring entrance (15m wide, 3.5m high) leads to a boulder collapse obstructed by driftwood but a squeeze to the top of a 2m climb down gains a dirty, shallow pool from where a north-south running passage (on average 7 m wide, 2.5 m high) continues below a daylight window (15m above) to enter a Y-junction. (Agencies)
Meghalaya Travel Guide
Tucked away in the northeast of India, there is a state where you will see clouds cradling hills, grass glistening with dewdrops, azure blue skies, whispering pine groves, winding streets lined by English cottages - you will truly wonder if you are in Scotland! Picturesque Meghalaya, 'the Abode of the Clouds' lives up to its name. Lying sandwiched between Bangladesh and southwest Assam, the northeast state of Meghalaya is the ideal place to unwind and let your eyes feast on nature's abundance. The hill state of Meghalaya faces the brunt of the southwest monsoon, making this one of the wettest areas on earth. Meghalaya enjoys a temperate climate all year long and this makes Shillong, its capital city, one of the most visited hill-stations in India. How to Reach Meghalaya How to get there by Air The nearest major airport is the Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati (Assam), which is well connected by air. A four-hour scenic
drive up the hills will get you to Shillong from Guwahati airport. Rent a car and cab facilities are available from the airport. There are, however, no direct bus connections from Guwahati Airport to Shillong. How to get there by Rail The nearest railhead is Guwahati (Assam), which is well connected to the rest of the country. How to get there by Road Meghalaya is accessible by road from Assam at various points on the border between these two states. The National Highway 40 connects New Delhi and other major cities in India to Meghalaya. The roads are good and well frequented with traffic moving to and fro. However, do watch out for the heavy monsoon season which slows you down on the roads. Where to Stay in Meghalaya There are plenty of good hotels and accommodation to choose from in the capital city, Shillong. Most of them are in the Police Bazaar area, the business centre. Severe water shortage
is a perennial problem. You will get limited accommodation in the other cities and towns of Meghalaya. Things to do in Meghalaya The North-Eastern state of Meghalaya, renowned for its nature and scenic beauty offers a traveller with several options on what to do in Meghalaya. One can take a trip to the picturesque city of Shillong and visit the lakes, waterfalls, churches, and parks. The Barapani Lake and the enchanting caves of Siju are worth a visit. Shopping in Meghalaya is all about buying orange honey, and handmade shawls. Adventure enthusiasts will have a wonderful time in Meghalaya, as there are many things to do like angling, boating, caving, golfing, trekking, and various water sports. Festivals in Meghalaya are a significant occasion to celebrate and make merry. The Nongkrem Dance, Wangala Dance, and Behdienkhlam are major festivals celebrated by the Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia tribes, respectively.
well designed artifacts and appealing interiors, which are all handiworks of the owner- Asi Kera himself. It is located near NSF Martyrs' Park. Gusto: Gusto has been a lot of people's favourite ever since it opened, and is particularly known for its specials like Shabalay, Thenthuk and Momos among others. The Gusto restaurant, which is located at Officers' Hill, opposite
Indoor Stadium, also has its 'Gusto Takeaway' branch at AMK Ki, behind Congress Bhavan. Gusto serves Chinese and Tibetan food. Big Bite: Big Bite is a popular hangout place for young people and is located in Jail Colony, which is one of the most happening locations in Kohima. The cozy little place serves a variety of food and beverages and is especially known for serving excellent coffee.
Burrrp Cafe: One will find this fast food Cafe along the New Secretariat Road, and is a popular joint for office goers. Burrrp Cafe, which is owned by two young entrepreneurs, is aimed at providing hygienic food for healthy living. Burrrp also provides 'delivery on order' and takeaway services and delights in full customers' satisfaction. Needless to say, the food here is great! (Agencies)
Must Visit Places for Foodies in Kohima Over the years, Kohima has evolved into a little foodie paradise with the emergence of more cafes that are uplifting and creatively done. And it's not just the assortment of niceties that sets these eateries apart, but essentially the coffee (or pick a beverage of your choice) and of course the delicious food that go into making them some of the favourite hangout places in Kohima. Cafe Planet Earth: 'The happiest place on earth', as its slogan reads, Cafe Planet Earth is indeed a happy place to be! It is located in the heart of Kohima Town
near Jasokie Place in Razh端 Point and offers the best in Chinese food apart from an assortment of tea and beverages, and almost exclusive to the Cafe are items like ice cream sundaes, parfaits and other special icy treats - all very popular among customers. It is also the only place in Kohima to provide, on order, personalized edible Photo Cakes of various flavours for birthdays, anniversaries and such. The Cafe, which is air-conditioned, has a unique floor arrangement which in itself is an added attraction. If you are looking for a place to beat the
summer heat or just to cool off with some delicious treats this is the place to be. Pagebreak Cafe: Pagebreak Cafe, adjoining Crossword Bookstore is the ideal stop especially for booklovers. With spectacular pieces on display, the ambience of the Cafe gives you a contemporary feel. Tiny details add to the whole decor, and the little "Selfie Props" corner makes this one a favourite. Catch up on your reading or with a friend, this place will cater to every mood. It serves the most heavenly goodies like pastries, tarts, cupcakes, muffins, cookies and
freshly brewed coffee from Cafe Coffee Day! The cafe also has a Kid's Play Area for kids to be lost in their own world and hence making it a must visit place for families." It is located at South-X Complex, Porterlane Kohima. Dream Cafe: 'Dream Cafe, where good things happen' is located below UCO bank, opposite to TCP Gate Kohima and is one of the young people's favourite hangout places. The place has been host to numerous events including launches of debut albums, books, art exhibitions, musical evenings, promotions of bands,
etc, fulfilling the many dreams of young Naga people. Dream Cafe is one of the few places in Kohima that serves mock-tails and pizzas apart from other regular beverages and food. Ozone Cafe: Ideally placed in the heart of the town, Ozone Cafe serves great coffee and is one of the few places in Kohima that will fetch you the best momos (especially fried momos). The place where the Cafe stands now was earlier Quasqui Centennial Plaza in Razhu Point. Easily accessible and another young people's favourite, Ozone Cafe is also where PowerComm's Friday Live takes place every third Friday of the month to bring life to Kohima town. Orami: 'Orami, my kind of place', offers you an exotic menu, exclusively designed to satiate a food lover's adventure and appetite. The delectable dishes run across some of the most loved food in Nagaland. And it's not just the special food, but Orami has the perfect ambience for people, both young and old, local and foreign, to experience a taste of Nagaland through
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