June 10, 2016, friday

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ASSENG/2015/64205

PAGE 12

Vol. 1

Issue 362

Dibrugarh, Friday, June 10, 2016

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PAGE 7

PM Modi’s US Congress speech Militants camp "Longrong mobile 1 camp" busted along tells it like it is about Pakistan Arunachal - Myanmar border Agencies Washington, June 9

Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered a speech at the US Congress on Wednesday that stood out as uncommon sense in a world that has largely wallowed in giving Pakistan a free pass when it comes to harboring a rogue’s gallery of terrorists.

ET CAPSULES One bike lifter arrested from Tinsukia Tinsukia, June 9: Tinsukia police on Wednesday late evening arrested a bike lifter from a market complex at GNB road. The arrested person has been identified as one Ashish Shah, resident of Hijuguri area.

Police detained another person named Rafiq Ahmed who was with Ashish Shah at the time of his arrest. Tinsukia police produced him at a local court and asked his remand.

In yet another development, in an operation by 14 Assam riffles, a hide out belonging to NSCN - K and ulfa militants were busted at Hetbok village in Changlang district. This was a new camp set-up by militants.

However, militants flee the camp before security forces reached their.

Leopard captured Golaghat, June 9: Within a fortnight two leopards have been captured from the same place in Golaghat. The two leopards were creating terror in the greater Noragaon region of Betioni in Golaghat. Several cattle had become their food and people of the region had to spent sleepless nights. One of the leopards was caught a few days back but still the terror continues as there was another leopard . At last today the leopard was captured in a cage that was put by the Forest department authorities. People gathered in a large number to see the wild beast and at last they have a sigh of relief.

(Correspondent)

In an indirect reference to China, he also touted India’s "respect for global commons and for international rules and norms."

Modi addressed US concerns on contentious issues like intellectual property rights with gentle humour.

“Siri tells us that India’s ancient heritage of yoga has over 30 million practitioners in the US. It is estimated that more Americans bend for yoga than to throw a curve ball,” Modi said before landing his punchline.

“And, no Mr Speaker (Paul Ryan), we have not yet claimed intellectual property rights on

In a major set back to a joint command of several militants organizations of the north east - United National Liberation Front of West South Asia, a mobile camp belonging to the militants were busted along Arunchal - Myanmar border.

However, it is not clear whether the camp was busted in an army operation or it was a result of faction fighting between militants.

A top official from one of the security agencies confirmed ET that the militant camp was busted at Mohu pahar along Arunachal - Myanmar border after which 6 PLA and 1 ulfa has deserted the camp. Sources confirmed that the Ulfa cadre is equipped with a M-16 assualt riffle.

It may be mentioned that last year several militant organizations joined hands and formed a common platform, named, United National Liberation Front of West South Asia. This joint force had struck last year at Manipur killing near two dozens personnel of Assam Rifles.

Even this year they struck again at Manipur killing 6

A Staff Reporter Guwahati, June 9

The cry for delivery of justice against the alleged murder of Late Kali Bulo, an Assistant teacher at Mechuka resonated across the streets of Capital Complex as various organisations spearheaded by the All Tagin Students’ Union (ATSU) took out a rally demanding for the same today.

Supported in its endeavour

by Tagin Welfare Society, Tagin Cultural Society, All Arunachal Pradesh Students’ Union, Galo students’ Union, All Nyishi Students’ Union and various district students’ union, the rally which was originally planned till the premises of the CM bungalow was cut short at the highway near Kingcup Public School with the district administration not willing to take any chances.

NIA court sentences UNLF leader RK meghen to 10 years RI

Dibrugarh's Ordeal Vis-à-vis Floods and Erosion

Former UNLF chairman RK Meghen alias Sanayaima along with 17 other members of the banned outfit has been convicted by a Special NIA

Modi said that the need of the hour was to isolate those who sponsor terrorists and not distinguish between “good” and “bad” terrorists as terrorism was not just a threat in Afghanistan, but elsewhere in South Asia too.

Some US lawmakers tend to subscribe to Pakistan's policy of "bad terrorists" (from its Afghan front, who mostly attack Pakistan and American soldiers) versus "good terrorists" (from West Punjab, who mostly attack India).

Modi closed his remarks with an optimistic view of ties

Rishu Kalantri.

Tinsukia, June 9

Lakhyojyoti Gogoi personnel of Assam riffles. The appearance of PLA and Ulfa cadres jointly in this region was exposed few days back when Tinsukia police arrested ulfa and PLA from Assam Arunachal border. Their consistent present in this area is becoming a serious concern for security forces.

Meanwhile, A joint team of 19 Kumaon regiment, CRPF and Tinsukia police arrested three ulfa link man from two separate locations. The arrested persons has been identified as Lakhyojyoti Gogoi, Sushil Gogoi and

Sushil Gogoi Anupam Gogoi. Security forced recovered five 9mm live rounds and few handsets from them.

Two were arrested from Bordubi area while another from Panitola. It has been learnt that the ulfa linkman was carrying out recruitment for the outfit and have admitted of sending 5 youths to Myanmar via Mon route.

An interesting fact that has come to light is that Sushil Gogoi had enrolled in army in 1978. There after he joined Ulfa in 1983 and surrendered in 1992 and was living as sulfa.

A Staff Reporter Itanagar, June 9

Please call Pranjal Khound Contact No. 08471896580

THE EASTERN TODAY

yoga,” Modi said drawing laughter.

In fact, Modi’s substantive address had the right blend of humour, generous praise for the US and gravitas. At any rate, the US lawmakers appeared receptive to his message.

In a not-so-veiled reference to Pakistan, Modi said that terrorism was “incubated in India’s neighborhood.”

“Not just in Afghanistan, but elsewhere in South Asia, and globally, terrorism remains the biggest threat,” said Modi. “In the territory stretching from west of India’s border to Africa, it may go by different names, from Lashkar-e-Taiba, to Taliban to

“Today, Mr Speaker, a similar spirit animates India. Our 800 million youth, especially, are particularly impatient. My dream is to economically empower them through many social and economic transformations.”

“Today, our relationship has overcome the hesitations of history. Comfort, candour and convergence define our conversation through the cycle of elections and transitions of administrations the intensity of our engagement has only grown.

And, in this exciting journey, the US Congress has acted as its compass,” acknowledged Modi.

The prime minister said the two countries’ relationship is “primed for a momentous future.

The complaints of the past are behind us, and the foundations of the future are firmly in place.”

6 PLA and 1 Ulfa cadres deserted

Organisation holds peace rally Various new ways and means must be adopted the departments concerned to generate for late Kali Bulo at Itanagar byrevenue in a big way, says CM Sonowal

However, the protestors while displaying their unwillingness to be bogged down by extreme heat of the sun and the huge presence of the police and para-military presence, shouted slogans against the government establishment for the delay in the investigation of the alleged murder case of late Bulo even as a delegation led by ATSU President, Raju Ging Maling, along with AAPSU GS Biru Nasi and family members of late Bulo

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressing a joint meeting of Congress on Capitol Hill in Washington on Wednesday. PTI

between India and the US, which he called an “indispensable partner.”

He connected with his audience by reminiscing about his early travels to America where he was struck by the country’s creativity and “animal spirits.”

“Long before assuming office, I travelled coast to coast, covering 29 States of America.I realized then that the real strength of the US was in the dreams of its people and the boldness of their ambitions,” reflected Modi.

Dibrugarh, a picturesque city of upper Assam situated by the side of the mighty Brahmaputra still stands tall despite threats from the river

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said that revenue mobilisation has to be stepped up to speed up the process of development. In a marathon meeting with officials of the Finance and Taxation Departments at his conference room at Assam Secretariat here today, Chief Minister Sonowal said that A view of the rally taken out today and (inset) picture of Lt. Kali Bulo. Pic - ET Photo were allowed to proceed beyond the barricade to submit their demands at the CMO. Meanwhile, addressing the crowd of protestors, former NESO Secretary General, Gumjum Haidar took a dig at the establishment and said that in cases related to murders, the state has a very bad record with the culprits going scotfree in most cases. He therefore, asserted that the movement for delivery of justice would only escalate if the government fails to un-earth the truth behind the death of late Bulo and subsequently arrest the culprit.

His thoughts were later echoed by the uncle of late Bulo

who asserted that no compensation or any other consolation tactics would be accepted in the absence of justice being delivered.

Later, having aired their grievances and the demands at the CMO in presence of parliamentary secretary (Home) and other officials, ATSU president Raju Maling informed that they have placed their demand of handing over the investigations to the CBI along with other demands such as releasing of ex-gratia to the victim’s family members, appointment of Tanu Bulo as teacher on compensatory ground and also prompt actions against the erring officers and officials of the SIT.

11 killed in Investment in India to be Baghdad suicide increased to $5 billion attacks

by Amazon Amazon will invest an additional $3 billion in its India operations to take its investment in the country to over $5 billion, said the

At least 11 persons were killed and 40 others wounded on Thursday in two suicide bomb attacks in Iraq's capital Baghdad, police said.

REGION

OPED

BUSSINESS

NEIGHBOURS

Court in Guwahati on Wednesday. Special Judge of NIA, MK Bhattacharjee delivered the judgement on Wednesday.

Brahmaputra. Things ran smoothly up to August 1950, but the earthquake of a high magnitude rocked Assam, leaving many places devastated.

American e-commerce giant's founder and CEO Jeff Bezos. Bezos said this at an event here which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

In one attack, a suicide bomber detonated his car bomb amid a big crowd near a cinema building in alJadida district.

Raju also informed that Chief Minister Kalikho Pul, who is out of station currently has through a telephonic communiqué, assured to meet the aggrieved team once he is back in the state capital. Further, he added that the officials at CMO has agreed for initiating an inquiry against the investigating teams and that as per the SIT report, three suspects are already under the scanner and being investigated.

The ATSU president also informed that the officials meeting the aggrieved teams at CMO has agreed to club the investigations into vandalism, currently taken up by West Siang Police with that of the investigations into the murder under SIT.

various new ways and means must be adopted by the departments concerned to generate revenue in a big way and leakages must be plugged so that the revenue goes to the State exchequer.

Chief Minister Sonowal said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is keen to make the North East, including Assam an organic hub so that a new horizon opens up on the development front. “In order to

translate Prime Minister Modiji’s dreams into reality, we have to initiate a slew of measures to make Assam an organic hub,” he said.

Emphasising on stepping up production of agriculture, horticulture, mushroom, banana, cane and bamboo, Chief Minister Sonowal said that by doing so the economic condition of the farmers can be remarkably improved.

Contd. on Page 3

Power supply problem in Tirap due to 220 kv Kathal-Deomali EHV line trip ET Bureau Khonsa, June 9

To the great hardships and untold sufferings of the people of Tirap district there has been no power supply for the last 3 days. The residents especially the hospitals and educational institutions are having a harrowing time. In fact, the people are dependent on candles and lanterns.

However, the concerned department led by the EE, Power Er. Tami Jerang himself is working round the clock in spite of inclement weather

condition, especially in the afternoon to restore the power supplies as soon as possible.

When contacted the EE, Power Er. Tami Jerang said, "Since the day before yesterday at around 11.30 am the 220 KV Kathalguri- Deomali EHV line got tripped and there was an earth fault at 8.9 KM from the source of power supply after restoration of the faulty power line 220 KV sf6 circuit breaker was malfunctioning. The JE, Transmission, planning and monitoring zone tried to replace the closing and tripping coil but without any success due to mechanical snag. This

was informed to me by a staff of my Assam counterpart and the JE in charge of the substation of Kathalguri-Deomali EHV line. It may take some more time to fully restore the power supplies."

The EE, Power has appealed to all the consumers to bear with the department and extend their cooperation adding that the present crisis was due to a major mechanical failure. He assured to leave no stone unturned to ensure that power supply was restored at the earliest saying that he was alive to the great hardships being faced by the people.

School authorities puts lock at Gymnastic hall in Sivasagar, young learners deprive of practice venue Utpal Sarma Sivasagar, June 9

At a sudden step undertaken by the authorities of Sivasagar Govt. H.S. & M.P School in Sivasagar town on Thursday, the Gymnastic hall which is the only venue for the gymnastic learners in the town got closed putting more than 80 participants to a dilemma. According to reports, the authorities of the 75 years old school of Sivaagar town put lock at the Gymnastic hall which was at the campus

of the school on Thursday.

Sources say that there has been a prolonged dispute between the school authorities and the Sivasagar district Gymnastic

Association regarding letting the hall to the association which is the legal property of the school.

The hall has been used by the

association since 2010 and several national level gymnasts have been emerged from here.

The sudden initiative of the school authorities has not only displeased the young athletes but also created resentment among the guardians and the sports lovers. Various sports organizations and clubs have condemned the venture of the school authorities and stand by the side of the young gymnasts who have to pay the price of the prolonged cold war between the association & the school.

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Modi’s command performance in the United States shows he doesn’t know the meaning of 'jet lag'. By the time he touches down in New Delhi on Thursday — packing a full working day in Mexico — Modi would have covered 33,000 kilometers, held over 45 meetings across five countries, and spent over 44 hours on Air India One. There was no sign of jet lag, as an animated Modi, the fifth Indian prime minister to address the US Congress, received a series of standing ovations and thunderous applause from lawmakers who increasingly see in India a democratic counterweight to China’s rise. It appears Modi has taken note.

“India is already assuming her responsibilities in securing the Indian Ocean region,” said Modi. “A strong India-US partnership can anchor peace, prosperity and stability from Asia to Africa and the Indian Ocean to the Pacific.”

IS.” “But its philosophy is common: of hate, murder and violence. Although its shadow is spreading across the world, it is incubated in India’s neighbourhood.”

Modi urged the US Congress to send a clear message to those who “preach and practice” terrorism for political gains.

“Refusing to reward them is the first step towards holding them accountable for their actions,” said Modi taking aim at generous US non-military aid to Pakistan.

Members of the US House of Representatives recently threatened to block $450 million in aid to Islamabad unless it does more to fight the Haqqani network, which lawmakers see as a major threat to US forces in Afghanistan.

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 10

PAGE 2 ASTRO FOR YOU Aries You will be a compassionate and caring person. Today you are feeling very generous and will give freely of your treasures, which, will be adequately compensated in future. You have the exceptional ability to combine work and fun, and will treat peers and juniors as your family.

Taurus There is every possibility that you will keep people around you in good humour. A craving for food might overcome you today. Such a feeling might be because of subdued hunger.

Kick back and enjoy as fun will top your priority list.

Gemini Today, you will be busy doing grocery shopping and other household chores. By noon, you will be pretty bored. In fact, you are likely to walk up to unknown people and chat with them to kill time. You are also likely to experiment and take a trip to the wild side. You know how to dress up, and today, you will be a real show stopper!

Cancer You will put your family members above everything else. You will plan the entire day keeping them in mind. Your family will respond in kind and will make you feel loved and blessed. Your rivals will acknowledge your accomplishments and abilities.

Leo With today's alignment of your planets, you might be heading for a shopping bonanza. Be prepared to come back home weighed down with goodies, as you are likely to squander a considerable amount on them. On the work front, it's a completely different story as you display your maturity and mellowness. Look forward to the evening, as you are in for a sweet treat from your heartthrob.

Virgo D.E.A.F - Diet, Exercise and All-round Fitness - describes where you are much to incline today. Savour the most exquisite cuisine today. Later in the day perhaps, you may reach a crossroad in life. A rise in the bank balance will cushion the safety of your future.

Libra Today is a day where your attention will be on your family. You will give prime importance to them and may even keep aside work to pay attention to the happiness and well being of your family members. This is a good opportunity to plan an outing with your family members. Work wise too you will be getting golden opportunities to move up. Wait and watch, there will soon come the time when you can change your dreams into reality.

Scorpio The faucet of creativity will run wild today, especially when you try sorting things out with your siblings. Today, you shall bypass all incoming troubles with much ease. Your ingenuity will help you bag a job later, perhaps. In the evening, you will be the Good Samaritan and bring peace to someone.

Sagittarius You are being friendly and jovial throughout the day. Planning a getaway with family will be on top of your to-do list. Honours will be showered on you at your workplace. Be ready to receive much adulation.

Capricorn Scepticism and lack of faith in others may have prevented you from entering into a partnership, but you are likely to do so today, in keeping with the interest of your enterprise. For those engaged in jobs, truckloads of appreciation will come your way for your exceptional performance. Students will make well-informed decisions concerning their career.

Aquarius You are absolutely in no mood to work today! Instead, you want to indulge in leisure to recharge your batteries. If not invited to a gathering, you'll probably throw your own party.

And you will go out of your way to woo and win hearts. It will work.

Pisces A mixed bag of goodies awaits you today. Your boss is likely to grant you a few unexpected concessions at work. For those pursuing studies, good results are in the offing. The evening is likely to be fun-filled and pleasant.

PRASAR BHARATI (India's Public Service Broadcaster) ALL INDIA RADIO : DIBRUGARH (M.W.529.1m/KHz567 F.M. 101.30 MHz) Phone No.-03732325456 E-mail -dibrugarh@air.org.in Facebook Page-All India Radio Dibrugarh Programme Highlights 10-6-16 (FRIDAY) 5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti(Devotional Songs) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-15 A.M-Hindi Language Lesson 6-30 A.M-Vidyarthir Anusthan 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 Assamese Film Songs) 12-05 P.M-Surar Satsori (Request Programme of Assamese Songs) 1-10 P.M-Troops Programme 2-30 P.M-Western Music 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishmi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 4-45 P.M-News for Arunachal Pradesh 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 6-15 P.M-Ganya Raijor Anusthan 7-15 P.M-Karpumpuli 8-00 P.M-Parikrama 9-30 P.M- Kramasha-“Jangam”,Written by Debendra Nath Acharya Sd-/H.O.P

Governor of Assam to felicitate Position Holding Students of HSLC, High Madrassa, HSSLC and CBSE Examination 2016 A Staff Reporter Guwahati, June 9: Governor of Assam, Shri P B Acharya congratulates the students of HSLC, High Madrassa, HSSLC, 2016 and 10th and 12th Standard CBSE, 2016 students who have passed their examinations.

Governor will felicitate the students of HSLC, High Madrassa and HSSLC those who are position holders upto 10th position. He will also felicitate the first and the second highest mark holders in the state in 12th Standard CBSE, 2016. The felicitation function for the students of HSLC and High

Advt.

LOST I have lost my matriculation marksheet (Under CBSE Roll no. 3117863 and Registration No GSE/12/05833/00149) of 2013 Shri Ananda Chakma

breathed his last at the Mumbai airport around 3.10 pm today (9 June 2016) on his way back to Guwahati. A member of Guwahati Press Club, Gupta was suffering from gallbladder cancer and was referred to the Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai for his treatment. He left for Mumbai on June 3 last.

Gupta, who worked with various Hindi dailies including Hindi Sentinel, Pratah Khabar and Purvanchal Prahari, leaves behind his wife, a daughter, a minor son besides a host of relatives. Till the time of his death, Gupta was associated with Purvanchal Prahari as a senior sub editor.

All the students will be presented with Certificates of Appreciation and a gift pack comprising of books and pens. All the position holders upto 10th position in the merit list of HSLC, High Madrassa and HSSLC and also the first and the second highest marks holders in Assam in 12th Standard CBSE examination 2016 are invited to join the fe-

licitation ceremony.

Certificates of Appreciation from the Governor of Assam for the position holders from 11th to 20th positions in HSLC and High Madrassa Examination are being sent to their schools and the school authority is requested to hand over to the concerned students.

The Principals/Head Masters/Head Mistress of the respective schools as well as the parents/guardians (not exceeding two because of paucity of space) of the students is also invited to accompany the students to the function and ensure safe arrival and departure of their wards.

Dehing Welfare Society opens Information Centre for cancer Patients at Dibrugarh A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Jun 9: An organisation namely the Dehing Welfare Society has opened an Information Centre for cancer patients at Brahmaputra Lodge Building, Paltan Bazar here.

The Dihing Welfare Society seeks to provide free information to the cancer patients who desire to go to Dr. B. Borooah Cancer Institute, Guwahati or Tata

Cancer Hospital, Mumbai and others. According to the NGO workers, there are several cancer patients who desire to go to Dr. B. Borooah cancer Institute, Guwahati or Tata Cancer Hospital, Mumbai and others. According to the NGO workers, there are several cancer hospitals offering very quality services at cheap prices but people are unaware of them. “The major case for cancer deaths in

India is the high treatment cost and inferior quality of facilities in about 40% of cancer centers in India,” said NGO official Ammamuddin Ahmed.

The organization will provide information relating to paper works, journey, accommodation, treatment, procuring free Chemotherapy and arranging financial assistance from the state and central schemes.

ET Correspondent Nalbari, June 9: The Nalbari district committee of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accorded warm felicitation to three BJP MLAs in a function held at Nalbari Gurdon HS School play ground here on Wednesday.

The MLAs who were felicitated are Ashok Sarma of Nalbari LAC, Narayan Deka of Barkshetri LAC and Angurlata Deka of Batadraba LAC. It may be mentioned here that the Batadraba MLA Angurlata Deka is belongings to the Nalbari district. A total of 24 organisations of the district felicitated the newly elected

MLAs with Gamocha and Phulam Japi. The felicitation meeting conducted by the Bandip Deka Secretary of Nalbari BJP was attended

by Ajay Dapmpal organizing secretary of Northeast, and Phanindra Sarma state BJP leader among others.

In reply to the felicitation Barkshetri MLA Narayan Deka said that the state BJP Government isn't voted to the power only for a change of the Congress Government. They wanted an all round development of the society which the Government must be worked taking as challenge.

ASDMA to organise Earthquake Awareness Programme at Dispur A Staff Reporter Guwahati, June 9: The Assam State Disaster Management Authority is going to organise “ZONE V”: Earthquake Awareness Programme for Apartment from 13th June to 28th August, informed in a press release issued from the administration.

The Programme will be officially launched on 13th June at 4:30 P.M. at ASDMA state Office,

Assam Secretariat Campus, Dispur.

The Hon’ble Minister of State, Revenue & DM, Assam, Pallav Lochan Das and Chief Secretary, Government of Assam, V K Pipersenia will grace the occasion.

All the Media Persons (both Print & Electronic) based in Guwahati are requested to make it convenient to attend and cover the function on the launching day.

Inauguration of PMSMA in Dibrugarh A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Jun 9: Pradhan Mantri Suraksita Matriva Abhijan (PMSMA) was inaugurated by the Dibrugarh DC Shri M S Manivannan, IAS here today at the premises of Dibrugarh State Dispensary. The Government of India has initiated this scheme at reducing the maternal mortality rate (MMR) through quality ANC to every pregnant woman. The scheme was under Union ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt. The DC expresses his hope for positive change

through this scheme for the welfare of the women’s. Dr. P. Swarnakar, Joint Director of Health Services, Officer Manisha Buraguhain, and Specialist Debanga Bikash Gogoi were chief guest.

Other officials like Dr. C. Sarma, Dr. H. Baishya, B. Bordoloi, B. Bhusal were present there. Through the slogan of “Aair Surakshai KanmanitirBhabishwat Ujalabo” the Dibruigarh District Administration aspects the co-operation from all people.

PMSMA launched in Darrang ET Correspondent Mangaldai, June 9: Pradhan Mantri Surakshita Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA), a new health scheme initiated by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt. of India which aim at reducing the Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) through quality ANC to every pregnant woman has been launched in Darrang district today. Dr Ramesh Ch Goswami, in charge Joint Director of Health Services, Darrang reportedly launched the programme in ceremonial function organized at the Kharupetia Block Primary Health Centre premises of

Senior journalist Nand Kishor Gupta breathed his last A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Jun 9: Senior journalist Nand Kishor Gupta (46)

Madrassa 2016 is being organized on 16th June 2016 at 11.30 a.m. and for the students of HSSLC and 12th Standard CBSE students on 17th June 2016 at 11.30 a.m. at Durbar Hall of Raj Bhavan, Guwahati.

Three MLAs felicitation at Nalbari

the district. The first phase of the programme is scheduled to cover the target population under the health institutions namely Mangaldai Civil Hospital, Kharupetia CHC, Dalgaon SD, Dhula PHC, Jaljali PHC, Gossaigaon PHC, Sipajhar FRU, Garukhuti PHC, Deomornoi CHC and Patharighat PHC. According to the official source the objective of PMSMA to provide quality ANC to every pregnant woman the Government of India has decided to launch the “Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan” (PMSMA), a

Thieves Caught in Golaghat

ET Correspondent Golaghat, June 9: When at the time it is seen that the government is giving more emphasis on education of the children still many children are which appealed for aids getting deprived of and to Gupta’s treatment, these teenagers have expressed shock at the engaged in several anti untimely demise of social and criminal Gupta. The press club, activities.

while offering gratitude for everyone including Assam CMO who responded to it’s appeal, now urged the State chief minister Sarbananda Sonowal to kindly sanction an exgratia amount for the Guwahati Press Club, bereaved family.

Such types of activities were seen in Golaghat when a group of teenagers stole many things from different shops in the town. Today when the gang of teenaged thieves tried to sale the stolen goods the seven member gang was caught red handed.

fixed day ANC s given every month across the country. This is to be given in addition of the routine ANC at the health facility.

Under the campaign, a minimum package of antenatal care services would be provided to the beneficiaries on the 9th day of every month at the Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Clinics to ensure that every pregnant woman receives at least one checkup in the 2nd and 3rd trimester of pregnancy. If the 9th day of the month is a Sunday/ a holiday, then the Clinic should be organized on the next working day.

Inquiry Commission submits report A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Jun 9: The one man inquiry Commission headed by Justice B. D. Agarwal, constituted to inquire into the death of Priya Basumatary, a 16 year old teenager by an outlawed militant organisation, and submitted its report today to the Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.

It may be mentioned here that following the killing of Priya Basumatary, the state government constituted one-man inquiry commission headed by Justice (Retd) B. D. Agarwal to inquire into the circumstances leading to the death of the teenager.

Essentially, these services will be provided by the Medical Officer and / OBGY specialist. Facilities where such trained manpower is not available, services from other public health institutions like district Hospital, CHC/FRU are to be arranged. PMSMA will help in providing quality ANC& also detection, referral, treatment and follow-up of high risk pregnancies and women having complications.

During this campaign, trained service providers and ASHA will focus their efforts to identify and reach

out to pregnant women who have not registered for ANC (left out/missed ANC) and also those who have registered but not availed ANC services (dropout) as well as High Risk pregnant women. It will also be ensured that not only all pregnant women complete their scheduled ANC visits but also undertake all essential investigation. While 9th of every month will be organized as a special day, it is reiterated that the existing, routine and planned services such as ANC, PNC etc. will continue to be delivered at all the facilities as scheduled in their respective micro-plans.

Assam Governor congratulates Kamrup Metropolitan district administration A Staff Reporter Guwahati, June 9: Assam Governor P. B. Acharya congratulated the Kamrup Metropolitan district administration on taking the initiative for declaring the Gangetic River Dolphin as the mascot for the State capital.

In a statement here on Thursday, Acharya said, “Congratulations to Deputy Commissioner and his team for taking all interests for declaring the Gangetic River Dolphin as the City Animal as its mascot. The move will help in generating awareness for this protected creature which is on the verge of extinction”.

It may be mentioned that Guwahati has become the first city in the country to have its City Animal. “Good to have a City Animal in the form of Gangetic River Dolphin which will be considered as the city’s mascot and will create awareness for the animal which is an important element of Assam’s rich and unparallel biodiversity”, the Governor stated .

Along with the Gangetic River Dolphin, the Governor also appeals the people of Assam to protect and preserve the other endangered animals and birds before they get extinct.

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 10

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Hurdles cleared for change of guard in Changlang Zilla Parishad Indrajit Tingwa Changlang, June 9: There had been some confusion with regards to the defection and merger of seven Congress Zilla Parishad Members (ZPMs) of Changlang district with the People's Party of Arunachal (PPA) but that has been cleared on 8 June after the Deputy Commissioner of Changlang issued an order after hearing all the stakeholders.

The General Secretary of Arunachal Pradesh Congress Party (APCC) incharge Panchayats Tachu Hina had vide letter No.APCC/DCC/ Changlang/2011 dated 30 May,2016 complained to the Member Secretary Changlang Zilla Parishad under Section 6 (1) of Arunachal Pradesh Local Authority (Prohibition of Defection) Act,2003 along with documents such as Show Cause Notice, Expulsion Order and objection against merger to declare as disqualified members of 14Changlang Zilla Parishad under Section 3 (1) of the said Act against four ZPMs. The four ZPMs being Jowkhong Singpho, 3Miao, Yaofu Yobin, 8-

Vijaynagar, Korong Longri, 9-Kharsang and Pintri Singpho, 2-Diyun Anchal Samiti blocks.

The Deputy Commissioner of Changlang under Section 6 (2) of APLA (PD) Act, 2003 directed the four ZPMs along with party officials to appear before him on 8 June, 2016. The four ZPMs in a written statement and in person denied of receiving any Show Cause Notice from the General Secretary, APCC in-charge Panchayats. They also submitted that a total of seven members out of the eleven INC ZPMs of Changlang district merged with the PPA and had submitted a letter of acceptance from the President and Chairman of PPA On 28 May,2016 to the Member Secretary, Changlang Zilla Parishad on 30 May,2016. On the other hand the General Secretary APCC in-charge Panchayats was unable to produce any document, dak challan and records of issue and dispatch of the Show Cause Notice and Expulsion Order.

After hearing both the parties and looking into the evidences produced the

DC, Lower Subansiri appreciates public for cooperation in implementation of TAH activities ET Bureau Ziro, June 9: Continuing his efforts to facilitate smooth Re-assessment of Potin to Bopi TAH, Deputy Commissioner Lower Subansiri shri Kemo Lollen accompanied the re assessment team from the boundary pillar at Upper Ziro to Tamen in the second phase. He appreciated the public for their cooperation and hoped for such positive responses till the final stretch of the TAH. Enroute the DC also visited G o v t . H r. S e c . S c h o o l Boasimla and interacted with teaching staff of the school.

He expressed displeasure on finding the Principal absent from the station during the

time of admission.

He advised the teachers to be sincere and create a good learning environment for all round development of the students. He also visited PHC Boasimla and interacted with the medical staffs. On learning about shortage of medicines he donated 10000 rs for purchase of basic essential medicines. The medical staffs also apraised the DC regarding shortages of staff Qtr and lack of proper water supply to PHC.Shri Lollen assured to take up matter. The 're assessment would renew tomorrow. The DC would be camping at Raga untill the entire reassement process is completed.

2-day Integrated Training Prog on Disaster Management held ET Bureau Aalo, June 9 : A two day Integrated Training Programme on Disaster Management conducted by DDMO Aalo and participated largely by team of Army, ITBP, APP, IRBN, Medical and Urban Development department gets underway at Hotel West from today.

Inaugurating the inaugural function as Chief Guest, the West Siang ADC Shri Tamik Talom said that natural calamities cannot be predicted and it always important to keep in preparedness to counter and kind of eventualities. The Traverse Rope Climbing and methods emergency evacuations are quite essential and such training

should be conducted in the nook and corner of the district involving youths and NGOs of the district. The Nodal Officer and DDMO, Shri Nima Dorjee spelt out the detail aim and objectives, , of the training through power point presentation and appealed all line departments to cooperate him to intensify the programme.

The Resource who attended the training elaborated on concept of Disaster Management, sSarch and Rescue Technique, Warrant Situation, First Aids and Technique, Earthquake Disaster and its impact on society and social structure through practical demonstrations.

Deputy Commissioner in his order vide Memo No. CHG/PR/ZPC-1/2016/ 2711-717 observed that the letter of acceptance signed by the President and Chairman of PPA and received by the Member Secretary, Changlang Zilla Parishad on 30 May reveals that out of the 11 INC ZPMs,7 elected ZPMs of INC has constituted the group representing a fraction which have arisen as a result of split from their political party and have become the members of another political party i.e. PPA and that the group consist 2/3 (twothird) of the members of INC. The order further states that "Whereas ,the merger of the above mentioned ZPMs from Congress to PPA was already completed on 28/5/ 16 and a copy was submitted to Member Secretary on 30/5/16 as such there appears to be no issue in the matter of dispute regarding the merger of 4 ZPMs to PPA from INC. Considering the provision of law as laid down under Section 4 and 5 of APLA (PD) Act,2003,the above mentioned four ZPMs shall not be disqualified under Sub-

Section (1) of Section 3".

Earlier,the Member Secretary Changlang Zilla Parishad had notified for conduct of a no confidence motion moved against the incumbent Zilla Parishad Chairperson on 10 June,2016 at Changlang.

Hence the hurdles have been cleared for PPA ZPMs to take the reins from INC. Meanwhile, in a press statement, Nyasam Jongsam, General Secretary PPA who is supervising and coordinating the whole process said that the move of the Congress party was illegal and an act of frustration. He further stated that the Congress party was trying to create confusion among the people of Changlang district and trying to tarnish the hard earned image of upcoming young leaders.

Marina Kenglang, the incumbent ZPC cum DCC (I) President in a telephonic talk with this correspondent stated that the recent developments were politically motivated. She said the move to oust her was purely on political lines and has nothing to do with development factors. She also stated that what is happening was unfair.

Governor appeals victim of harassments and humiliations of the state to come forward and file FIR to respected SP and DGP A Staff Reporter Itanagar, June 9: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh JP Rajkhowa has called for setting up of ‘Help-lines’ especially for people travelling in the highways. Series of incidents of harassment and stopping of vehicles, which came to light in the aftermath of recent case involving the First Lady of the State, the Governor emphasised that the Director General of Police of Arunachal Pradesh in coordination with his counterpart in Assam must set up a mechanism to provide at least three nos. of 24 hours active Mobile Helpline numbers in addition to one or more Landline numbers and email addresses, so that common public travelling in Assam and at the same time those travelling in Arunachal Pradesh can avail timely assistance whenever they require.

The Governor appealed to the people, particularly those victims of harassments, humiliations, forced extortions and other illegal activities on the Highways to come forward and file formal complaint or FIR with details of the incidences to respected Superintendent of Police in the Districts and Director General of Police in State Capi-

Dy CM Chowna Mein who encouraged farmers and through RKVY scheme watermelon cultivation sanctioned and implemented by Dept of Horticulture, Namsai.

Though due to torrential rain and subsequent hail storm the crop could not come up in major plantation areas but rest areas it is very encouraging. This is a new tech-

Reiterating on having regular ‘Highway Police Patrolling’ in the highways in Assam, particularly, Itanagar-Guwahati, JonaiTezpur, Nowgaon-Jagun, the Governor also suggested for such mechanism in

Itanagar-Hollongi, ItanagarZiro and other roads also.

He also stressed on surprise checking by the State Police to instil sense of security amongst the commuters.

The Governor also advised the people, particularly the drivers to be cautious in the highway against unscrupulous and anti-social elements.

It may be recalled that Raj Bhavan vehicle in which First Lady Smt Rita Rajkhowa was travelling on 4th June 2016 on the way from Guwahati to Itanagar was chased by some miscreants, overtaking it three times, but due to his extraordinary efficient, courageous and intelligent driving, the

Raj Bhavan Driver Jitumoni Nath managed to wriggle out of the situation thereby manoeuvring safely the life of the First Lady, PSO of Assam Police S. Saikia and his own.

Applauding Jitumoni Nath and in recognition of his dedication, commitment and exemplary driving skill, the Governor felicitated Jitumoni Nath with a ‘Letter of Commendation’ and a cash award of Rs. 21,000.00 (Rupees Twentyone thousand) only from the Governor’s Discretionary Grant Fund at Raj Bhavan, Itanagar on 9th June 2016.

He expressed hope and confidence that the Commendation and Award will be a source of inspiration for other drivers also.

Trial for returning life creates sensation 3 days training on cultivation and production at Dhemaji of Oyster mushroom held at Namsai ET Correspondent Dhemaji, June 9: Trial for returning life to a lady who died due to snake bite failed today in Jonai Tarajan village by a Tantrik of Nagaon. Jiten Hajong of Tarajan village near Jonai town in Dhemaji district called a Tantrik, Mr Islam from Nagaon to bring back the life of his wife, Bobita Hajong (30), raised question in the mind of people of Jonai.

On 6th June night at around 8.30 pm deceased Bobita Hajong went to fit mosquito net of her ill husband Jiten Hajong suffering from fever. While fitting the net, a snake bite her, she called the neighbored and intimated them of snake bite. People

called 108 service and took her to 30 bedded hospital Jonai from where she was referred to Ruksin private Nursing home in Arunachal Pradesh.

Doctors tried their level best but were unsuccessful and at 12.30 am she was declared dead by the team of Doctors. The deceased husband Hajong was offended and kept the dead body in home with believe that the magic of Tantrik may bring life back to his dead wife.

On his call Mr Islam from Nowgoan today reached Jonai and went to the house of Hajong at Tarajan nearly 4 km from Jonai town, people of the area throng to see how life in de

highlighted the achievement of the KVK in training of farmers in various circles and how they have come up.

Resource person from DRDA, Tinsukia B Chutia gave in length the training about cultivation and production, identification of edible and poisonous mushroom through power point presentation and scientific drying of mushroom and practical demonstration. The guest present were PD, ATMA and DAO, Namsai.

ET Correspondent Namsai, June 9: A three days training on cultivation and production of oyster mushroom was held at MDC, Namsai w.e.f 4th June 2016. S Bhide, DHO, Namsai in his welcome address welcomed all the farmers from the five circles stress on the need for scientific cultivation and produc-

BEST SCHOOL AWARD OF THE DISTRICT given ET Bureau Ziro, June 9 : The Deputy Commissioner of Lower Subansiri District, Sri Kemo Lollen handed over a cheque of Rs. 1,00,000.00 (Rupees One Lakh only)to Government Secondary School, Tajang for winning the BEST SCHOOL AWARD OF THE DISTRICT under the scheme Chief Minister Best School Award-2015-16 today.

The prize money was received by the Head Master of the school Sri Tage Chatung in the presence of Sri Yumlam Tana,DDSE, Ziro,along with Sri T.Pilya, BEO (E.) Sri Longku Gulab, Coordinator (Planning).

The Deputy Commissioner Sri Kemo Lollen while handing over the award

money to the Head Master of the school suggested that the money should be judiciously utilized for the welfare of the school.

He assured whole hearted support from the district administration to develop the school as a model government school in the Ziro Plateau which will be emulated by all the other schools of the whole district.

Dy CM Chowna Mein encourages farmer and Dept. of Horticulture through RKVY scheme at Namsai ET Correspondent Namsai, June 9: Commercial cultivation of watermelon in various location of different circles of Namsai district seems to be an alternate source of income to the farmers of this localities.

With three months crop and ready market it is really encouraging. This has been possible for vision leader presently the

tal, so that the authorities can take up the matters with their counterparts in other States.

The Governor also advised those affected persons to send a copy to Raj Bhavan, Itanagar so as to enable him to take up the issues with his counterparts. Such actions on the part of the common public will help in taking necessary measures by the State Governments to bring an end to these anti-social activities, he added.

nology where plastic mulch was used and now plastic mulch provide under MIDH scheme are used in effective way in cultivating various agriculture and horticulture crops. Hopefully this type of crop will somewhat eradicate unemployment problem and bring back misguided youth in the main stream of society.

tion which will enhance production, a good nutrient and generate income. He further highlighted that during the last training, some farmers have come up and did a good income by selling the product in the local market.

DC, Namsai who was the chief guest encouraged the farmers to take up the cultivation as a way of living and

substantiate the income as it has great demand in Namsai district or in nearby state. He further directed all field functionaries to remain besides the farmers and help them in getting the spawn.

PC, KVK, Momong also encouraged the farmers to take up more and more cultivation of mushroom and

The farmers were very much encouraged and voluntary made bait in presence of experts. B Chutia also informed that there is no problem in getting m/spawn as he himself has lab and varieties and for marketing there is no problem. The training session concluded with vote of thanks from HDO, Namsai.

Devastating Various new ways and means must be adopted fire breaks by the departments concerned to generate revenue in a big way, says CM Sonowal out in coming daily to the State from Contd. from Page 1 outside. “If we can produce the Yingkiong items coming from outside in ET Bureau Yingkiong, June 9 : A devastating fire broke out yesterday evening around 8 pm at Upper Market area of Yingkiong township. Four shops, number of godowns and other structures were completely devastated in the fire. Fire tender reached on time to control the fire and stopped further spread of fire, which otherwise could have caused maximum destruction, since the area is a close built-up one.

Local MLA cum PS, PHED & WS Shri Alo Libang accompanied by Shri Bading Teng, ZPM immediately rushed to the spot. Parliamentary Secretary handed once a cash of Rs. 66,000/- (Rupees sixty six thousand) only from his side as immediate relief to the fire victims. Shri T. Perin, i/c DC also visited the spot to assess the damage. The District Administration accorded a sanction of Rs. 3000/- (Rupees three thousand) each as immediate relief to the fire victims.

The source of fire is not yet known. However, unconfirmed sources revealed that use of candle might have been the cause. Yingkiong Township has been reeling under darkness for the last couple of days due to power failure.

At the same time, the Chief Minister underscored the need to involve the youth and to formulate suitable schemes.

Sonowal asked the officials to identify the sectors in which the State has huge potential.

“We have to go in for industries based on raw materials available that generate employment opportunities and bring about economic transformation in the lives of the people. However, the ecological balance has to be maintained at any cost,” he said.

Underlining the need for soil testing lab district wise for increased foodgrains production, Sonowal said that the farmers must get the right price for their produce for which they toil hard. For this, the Chief Minister called for establishing strong links between the producers, buyers and markets to weed out the middlemen. Sonowal asked the officials to study closely the markets in other States as well as neighbouring countries to explore ways to sell the products there.

Sonowal directed the officials to find out the exact volume of produce like eggs, milk and dairy products

our own State, it will not only enhance capacity building but also open up the doors for employment opportunities for our youth,” he added.

The Chief Minister said that the taxation officials have to keep strict vigil on the trucks laden with goods entering the State through Srirampur and Boxirhat Check Gates. “The officials have to see to it that other than the two check gates bordering West Bengal, no trucks can enter into the State illegally through other roads of the interstate boundary,” he said.

For priority sectors like health, education, flood and erosion sufficient funds must be earmarked and for that necessary steps must be taken up in right earnest, Sonowal said.

The Chief Minister said that to make the pension procedure hassle-free, a proper mechanism has to be evolved.

Sonowal also stressed on the need to set up housing facilities for the constables in every part of the State.

The meeting was attended, among others, by Additional Chief Secretary, TY Das, Additional Chief Secretary, VB Pyarelal, Commissioner & Secretary, Finance, Dr. Ravi Kota and other senior officials.

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 10

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Home guards organises cleanliness Forces friendly SBIHimanta Biswa Sarma to become the drive campaign in Kokrajhar new Assam Cricket Association president branch opened at Jorhat, PTI Guwahati, June 9: The Assam Cricket Association is set for a complete overhaul with minister of health and finance Himanta Biswa Sarma gearing up to replace Congressman Gautam Roy as its new president during the ACA’s upcoming AGM scheduled in Guwahati on June 12.

However, Biswa Sarma’s tenure at the helm may not be of full duration if Lodha Committee’s recommendations of “any minister or government employee not holding any designation in BCCI” is implemented.

With BJP forming government in Assam, Biswa Sarma, who is the longest serving vicepresident of ACA (since 2002), has staked his claim for the top post in the state cricket body and being the No 2 in the state cabinet will not face any opposition during Sunday’s AGM in the state capital.

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Himanta Biswa Sarma Sharekhan “Himanta Biswa Sarma is set to become the ACA president as there will not be any contest. As of now, outgoing president Gautam Roy (also a BCCI vice-president) will not be contesting the second most powerful man in the state after Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. Also Biswa Sarma has BCCI president and BJP MP Anurag Thakur’s support,” a senior BCCI functionary told

PTI on conditions of anonymity.

According to reliable sources, when Thakur was recently in North East, Biswa Sarma had met the BCCI president to discuss about Assam cricket.

Asked what if Supreme Court makes Lodha Committee’s recommendations binding in which case Biswa Sarma will have to relinquish ACA presidency, the source said: “He knows the implications but since BCCI is still contesting on a few recommendations including this one (where sitting ministers cannot hold BCCI or state association’s officebearer’s post), Biswa Sarma has told his confidants that this is his last chance to become president even if it is for a short term.”

According to sources in BCCI, Biswa Sarma is the only person, if he is a presidential candidate, then there won’t be any contest which can be the case for the other office bearer’s posts.

Bolero Pick Up Stolen

Workshop on SocioCultural meets

ET Correspondent Golaghat, June 9: A Bolero Pick Up van was stolen from Dulakhoria village under Kamarbandha PS in Golaghat. According to the report a Bolero Pick Up van bearing no AS05C 4196 of Bokul Karmaker a small tea grower of the region was stolen from his garage last night. The matter was reported to the police and the investigation is on.

A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Jun 9: One of the notable socio-cultural organisations Shruti Silpi Samaj is going to organise a workshop on Ethnic Songs from 11th to 16th July to focus on the unifying factors among all the people of Assam. The workshop will comprise of Mising, Tea-tribe and Nepali songs. Famous artists Pabitra Kr. Pegu, Diptee Rani Pegu, Dulal Manki and Tilak Newar will attend this grand cultural meet. Well known dance art-

ist Abhikshee Sonowal will provide training for the aspiring dancers and participants.

Other highlight of this meet will be workshop and exhibition of differently able artist from Leena Pathak’s arts.

On the last day of this grand event a multi-cultural evening “Shruti-Mala” will be organised in association with Shruti Silpi Samaj and Duliajan Club. For more information, contact +919859951663, +919435034765, +919435390520.

Kamrup DC urges health officials to attend duty in time ET Correspondent Rangia, June 9: Kamrup DC Vinod Seshan has appealed Doctors, GNM, ANM and all other medical and paramedical staff posted in various hospitals, Primary Health Centres, subsidiary health centres to attend their duties in time in all working days.

In the meantime, DC Seshan has asked the Circle Officers to inspect the hospitals in all working days and ensure regular and timely attendance of Doctors and nurses. He also asked the Circle officers to see that the patient gets

proper care and facilities.

ADC Hemashree Hazarika has been given the charge to coordinate the whole process to facilitate the patients.

Kamrup DC further expressed disappointment on the decreasing institutional delivery reports of 2015-16 the district compared to performance of 2014-15. He stated that strict punitive action will be taken on those who do not maintain punctuality and sincerity in Govt.

Health Institutions.

He further requested all Govt.Hospital staff member right from Medical Officer

to ASHA to be prompt and active towards increasing institutional delivery in the district in all health institution where delivery is conducted. Unnecessary referrals to GMCH and MMCH will be under strict surveillance and action will be taken on found guilty. It is noteworthy that the salary of all Staff of Bamunigaon Model Hospital and Rampur BPHC is withheld for last two months due to negligence in duty. It is noteworthy that DC Seshan himself gives frequent sudden visits in various health units of the Kamrup District.

Ten day long Combined Annual Training Camp- 2016 under NCC, Tezpur concluded ET Correspondent Tezpur, June 9: The National Cadet Corps, Combined Annual Training Camp- 2016 (CATC-2016) under the aegis of Group Headquarters (B) NCC, Tezpur concluded today at North Lakhimpur College, North Lakhimpur. In a Press note Maj Aniruddha Bhuyan, Officer Commanding , 5 Assam Bn. NCC, Tezpur said that Lt Col S S Sisodia , Officer Commanding, 72 Assam Girls (I) Coy, NCC and Maj Aniruddha Bhuyan, Officer Commanding , 5 Assam Bn NCC wel-

comed over 500 NCC Cadets from the schools and colleges from across the state opening day.

“The CATC aims at reaching out and bringing the youths of the country closer to nation building as worthy citizens and developing qualities such as leadership, camaraderie and patriotism.

The Cadets are also given a first hand glimpse of Army life. The training included Physical training, Drill, Weapon training, Sports and Cultural development.

Special emphasis was also

given to Swacch Bharat Abhiyan with cadets dedicating one hour each day for the same. In the welcome ceremony held at the auditorium of North Lakhimpur College, Lt Col S S Sisodia and Maj Aniruddha Bhuyan addressed the cadets and motivated the Cadets to give their whole hearted dedication, co-operation and make this event memorable. The officers also stressed on the youths to join the Indian Army.” The press note said adding the programme began on May 1 came to an end with closing ceremony.

19 new branches for NE

ET Correspondent Jorhat, June 9: The State Bank of India (SBI) who is having the highest number of branches in North Eastern Region with 750 branches, will add nineteen more in the region in Assam, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur. For Assam five, Nagaland five, Arunachal Pradesh five, Manipur with four will be opened for business before June 30, 2016 next, said PVSLN Murthy the chief general manager of SBI during his inaugural speech at a SBI Branch opening function at Na-Ali Jorhat here today.

Inaugurating the new SBIBranch which is an army friendly SBI branch opened basically for the army and defence personnel opened to work together while the bank branch will be working for top priority for army personnel, as army is very close to SBI, and SBI is always ready to serve the army, said the CGM Mr. Murthy.

expected to touch 39.6 crore next year on this date as the forces friendly bank is very lucky which will have special customer service as SBI and army to go together as this branch is very closer to the Jorhat military station, Assam Rifles, Indian Air Force, CRPF, Para Troopers Regiments and all were very close to this newly opened SBI branch to give good business said, Kaushik Sarma the DGM of SBI during his speech.

The branch will have one of its latest art of banking facility with technology up gradation what will be available with only State Bank of India informed the SBIdeputy general manager Mr Kaushik.

It is to be mentioned that State Bank of India is always with the army at far flung areas in Arunachal Pradesh, when potatoes even freezes as SBI officials need to travel for nearly 18 days on foot to reach office area, when we look back to years in between 1978 to 90s said, PVSLN Murthy the CGM here.

ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, June 9: Hundreds of trained home guards join hands to the cleanliness drive campaign (Swachch Bharat Abhijan), being carried out to bring neat and clean environment in Kokrajhar district as well across the state on Thursday. The Swachch Bharat Abhijan campaign was organised by Kokrajhar district committee of All Assam Trained Homeguard Association, which was started from SP office complex in Kokrajhar via district jail road, DC office and ended at JD Road in Kokrajhar under the vision and mission of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to create awareness about building cleanliness drive among citizens. Even though, the home guards giving service with cheapest salary in the state, they have initiated to make clean and healthy environment in the state, of which why they started their Swachch Abhijan in the district.

A total of 27,000 home guards have been giving

serving in the state on the basis of contractual manner at a cheapest without any proper management. The association slammed the previous Congress government at Dispur for not initiating any welfare to the engaged home guards in the fifteen years ruled. They also told that the homeguards are being paid cheapest salary which was not possible to sustain a family in today’s life because all needy materials and daily uses’ prices has been hike. The home guards were deprived from all fronts facilities, included regularization of job, salary hike as per seniority, the association adding demanded government should take stern initiative for regularization of job through implementation of the clauses of the home guard act spirits in the state.

Jiten Barman, Sudhu Ali Ahmed, Home guard Association leaders said, “We have organised this Swachch Abhijan to make neat and clean in Kokrajhar as well in the state under the

Family quarrel turns man jumped to death Nalbari BJP fe- in Gaurang River pond

The new branch kicked off with 3.96 crore deposit on the very first day and it is

licitates 3 MLAs ET Correspondent Nalbari, June 9: The Nalbari district committee of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accorded warm felicitation to three BJP MLAs in a function held at Nalbari Gurdon HS School playground here on Wednesday.

The MLAs who were felicitated are Ashok Sarma of Nalbari LAC, Narayan Deka of Barkshetri LAC and Angurlata Deka of Batadraba LAC. It may be mentioned here that the Batadraba MLA Angurlata Deka is belongings to the Nalbari district.

A total of 24 organizations

of the district felicitated the newly elected MLAs with gamocha and phulam japi.

The felicitation meeting conducted by the Bandip Deka Secretary of Nalbari BJP was attended by Ajay Dapmpal, organizing secretary of Northeast, and Phanindra Sarma state BJP leader among others. In reply to the felicitation, Barkshetri MLA Narayan Deka said, “The state BJP Government is voted to power not only to change the Congress Government.

They wanted all-rounder development of the society and Government will take it as a challenge”.

ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, June 9: It is a sensational and rare incident took place that a resident of Ward No.2 in Kokrajhar town, Bikash Kar, 22-years-old was found jumped to death in nearby Gaurang River pond due to family quarrel, whose body was recovered this morning around 9 am in Kokrajhar.

According to Anil Kar, father of Bikash, a family quarrel was occurred in their family on Tuesday night and then he ran away to the Gaurang River pond side where he jumped and went missing till yesterday, but today his body was recovered. The incident took

place around 10.30 pm on Tuesday and immediately searching was conducted to fish out, traced was not reached till last night. He had followed his son Bikash after quarrel, but could not protect him and since then his son remained under water.

Local peoples along the pond told that villager and police have been conducted search to fish out since after incident, but today recovered body after his body come out of the water on the pond. Police said that police administration also searched to fish out repeatedly after getting information about incident and today recovered his body from the pond.

guidance of Assam state association under mission and vision of PM Modi across the country. It is a needed step to clean the humanity society with healthy environment through which country would be look neat and clean in near future’.

They said that the home guards have been giving service in the state without proper salary and regularization, even though there are huge facilities in the state towards building welfare for the association. The new state government led by Chief Minister Sarabananda Sonowal should take strong interest to pave way regularization of jobs, salary hike and implement the spirits of the engaged home guards. Sometime, we have to face lots of hardships due to non-regularization, irregular of salaries. We do hope Saonwal government at Dispur will fulfill our demand and issues including jobs’ regularization, salary hikes in near future, the association leaders said.

Governor extends greetings to Muslim population on Ramadan A Staff Reporter Guwahati, June 9: Governor of Assam P B Acharya extended warm Ramadan greetings to the Muslim population of the State as the month of fasting begins on Tuesday.

"My warm greetings to the Muslim brethren of Assam for the holy month of Ramadan," he said, adding, “Ramadan is a time for Muslim community to observe dawn-to-dusk fast to cleanse the soul and come closer to (God) Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful."

The Governor hoped that Ramadan would promote brotherhood, compassion and love for fellow beings and strengthen the bond of unity and amity among different communities living in the State for ages.

DC launches PMSMA Debojeet Thaosen resigns in Kamrup before no confidence ET Correspondent Rangia June 9: Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) was formally launched on Thursday by Vinid Seshan DC Kamrup in Tula Ram Bafna Kamrup District Civil Hospital. The PMSMA is simultaneously launched in all the 77 health institutions of Kamrup.

In his speech DC Seshan stated that this PMSMA service on the 9th of every month is a unique and effective way to reach out to the poor masses. Every month a strong bond will be created amongst the beneficiaries and the service delivery people right from Medical Officer to ASHA. He added that prompt service should be provided to all patients especially when it comes to pregnant woman and children. DC also mentioned that strict punitive action

will be taken on those who do not maintain punctuality and sincerity in Govt.

Health Institutions.

Speaking on the occasion, Nodal Officer for PMSMA Dr. Jayanta Baruah mentioned elaborately how PMSMA service every month will be able to find out the high risk pregnant woman and in this way prompt service will be available to the pregnant woman. He added that counselling under PMSMA enable pregnant woman to prepare herself for safe delivery in Health Institutions and take care of her newborn more efficiently, It is noteworthy that under Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) all pregnant women in the 2nd and 3rd trimester will be given free ANC services and counselling on the 9th of every month.

ET Correspondent Haflong, June 9: The no confidence motion could not be moved as former CEM, Debojeet Thaosen today tendered his resignation from the post of chief executive member of NCHAC to the governor appointed protem chairman Suanthangjem Hrangkhol at 10:10 AM on Thursday as the special session for no confidence could be moved at 11:00 AM as ordered by the Assam governor.

The session was ordered by the Assam governor after majority of the members of the autonomous council requested for no confidence against the present Chief executive members of the council. Earlier on June 6 chairman Ngamrothang Hmar submitted his resignation to the house which was accepted by the governor after which he appointed a

pro tem chairman till the election of the new chairman of NCHAC. The pro tem chairman after disclosing the resignation of former CEM, Thaosen, MACs like Samuel Changsan, Niranjan Hojai, Prkanta Warisa, Kulendra Daolagupu and other expressing concern over delaying tactics gave their views on the matter they suggested to bring anti-defection bill by amending the constitution of sixth schedule and a delegation of MACs should also approach the centre.

The N C Hills Autonomous Council was in unstable state since last October 15 resulting to lots of difficulties among the people of Dima hasao. The Employees of NCHAC are yet to get their salaries for last several months. S T Jem Hrangkhol,

Protem Chairman said as per governor’s direction ‘no confidence motion’ against CEM, NCHAC Debojeet Thaosen was to move but could not as CEM Thaosen tendered his resignation to him on Thursday. .

Now the Governor would accept the resignation and again an order would come from Governor in regards to the election of the CEM. Mishan Ranjan Das, exMLA and Dima Hasao BJP in charge talking to media said that the BJP is going to form the government in N C Hills Autonomous Council as they are having more than two third majorities.

He said till now they are yet to select their parliamentary leader but hinted that who is having majority support would be the parliamentary leader. He also said instability in the government a great loss for the institution.

Five members of a notorious vehicle lifting gang held, stolen vehicle recovered

Jorhat MLA Hitendranath Goswami post for a Photo after being co-opted as a member of Jorhat Municipal Board. Pic - Nekib Ahmed

ET Correspondent Mangaldai, June 9: In a significant breakthrough against the operation of interstate vehicle lifters, police from Dhula Police Station in Darrang district has arrested five members of gang who were also accused in the organized murder of one Sorhab Ali (39), a driver of a stolen vehicle on June 4 last and also managed to recover

the vehicle. Five accused in the age group of 25 to 27 years have reportedly been arrested from different locations of the district under Dhula and Dalgaon Police Stations.

However another member of the gang is still absconding said, Ranjit Hazarika, Officer in Charge of Dhula Police Station. All the accused were today produced be-

fore the court and the court remanded them to judicial custody. According to police, the six member gang with an evil motive hired a mini truck bearing registration no.

AS 25 BC 1580 from Tangni weekly market to Orange. But on their way they killed the driver Sorhab Ali with sharp weapons and threw away the body in an isolated

place on the Silbori-Orang connecting road under Dalgaon Police Station and fled away with the vehicle. However the vehicle was intercepted by police at Orang in the a routine checking on suspicion and held the vehicle along with one Babul Ali of Dhanshrikash village under Dalgaon police station , who had been in the

driver’s seat . This eventually linked with the investigation of Dhula police after owner of the vehicle lodged a missing complaint followed by recovery of the body of the driver on the next day.

Dhula police with the help of Orang police interrogated Babul Ali who admitted about their organized crime and persons involved.

REGION

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 10

Lal Thanhawla lays foundation stone of Mizoram's biggest project

Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla Aizawl, Jun 9: Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla laid the foundation stone of the state's biggest tourism project 'Integrated Development of New Eco-Tourism' at Thenzawl Community Hall Tuesday, an official statement said.

Under the project, an 18 hole international standard Golf Course and a modern Convention Centre at Thenzawl, an eco-tourism resort Eco Lodge Cottage Cluster at nearby South Zote and adventure facilities such as Rapelling, Body Zorbing, Zip Line, Rope Course and Archery arena at Reiek would be set up at these locations.

Lal Thanhawla, inaugurating the project, said Thenzawl and adjoining areas have natural scenic

beauty, Mizoram's highest waterfall Vantawng, Tuirihau waterfall and other historical and cultural sites, the statement said.

The project estimated at a cost Rs 94 crore would be funded by the Centre under the new Tourism Policy 'Swadesh Darshan' for the North East Circuit. Thenzawl is situated midway between Aizawl and south Mizoram's Lunglei, the second largest urban habitation in the state.

The area is blessed with scenic beauty and a congenial climate all year round. South Zote is around 15 km from Thenzawl, while Reiek, another centre of the project, is about an hour's drive from Aizawl and located at a hill top.

(Agencies)

" 18 hole international standard Golf Course and a modern Convention Centre at Thenzawl, an ecotourism resort Eco Lodge Cottage Cluster at nearby South Zote and adventure facilities such as Rapelling, Body Zorbing, Zip Line, Rope Course and Archery arena at Reiek would be set up"

Congress more united in Tripura with exodus of indisciplined leaders: Bhupen Bora Agartala , Jun 9: On the continuing exodus from Congress, the party's all India secretary Bhupen Bora who was here for crisis management said that party was aware at least a year back of a rebellious group of MLAs and leaders trying to contact with the BJP but were refused and now joined the TMC. Bora accepting that there was infighting in the Congress said it is a temporary setback for the party in the state but now the party will be more united as infighting will stop with moving away of the indisciplined leaders.

"We were prepared; we came to know since one year back that Sudip Roy Barman don't want to work in Congress. He wanted to lead the Congress according to his own style which is not acceptable to the party workers. So, I think people are more happy that Congress in Tripura are united now and there will be no infighting in Congress in Tripura. So because of that all the Congress leaders and workers will work unitedly for more strengthening of the Congress party in Tripura," he added.

Sighting example of Congress leaders like Gegon Apang and P. A. Sangma who had left the Congress and joined other party but could not continue for long, Bora said that Congress party is not dependent on any single person and hence the party will able to regain its strength by the next assembly election.

AICC had deputed party's all India secretary Bhupen Bora to cope with the crisis.

Bora arrived here yesterday and held discussion with party leaders on the future strategy of Congress in Tripura and assured that it depends on the willingness of the state leaders with consent of AICC that the party will go for alliance with any political party.

Trinamool leader Mukul Roy said at a public meeting here that his party would fight tooth and nail to dislodge the Left Front government in Tripura and take power in the state after the 2018 assembly polls.

Later, a Trinamool delegation led by Roy and Sudip Roy Barman met Governor Tathagata Roy and told him about "deteriorating law and order" in the state.

(ANI)

PAGE 5

NIA court sentences UNLF leader RK meghen to 10 years RI Imphal, Jun 9: Former UNLF chairman RK Meghen alias Sanayaima along with 17 other members of the banned outfit has been convicted by a Special NIA Court in Guwahati on Wednesday. Special Judge of NIA, MK Bhattacharjee delivered the judgement on Wednesday.

The Court also issued jail warrants against those who are on bail in the same case.

Sanayaima along with nine others have been sentenced to ten years rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 10 thousand each. The judgment of the case under Special NIA case number 01/2010 against RK Meghen and 17 others was kept reserved by the Court a few days back.

Sanayaima and 17 others have been facing trial since 2010 under Section 120B, 121, 121(A), 122 of IPC and under Section 16,17, 18, 18A,18B, 20&21 of UA(P) Act 1967. Sanayaima was convicted under Section 121 A, 18 of UA (P) Act, 18 B of UA (P) Act, Sec-

tion 20 UA(P) Act and 122 IPC. Under Section 121 A IPC, Sanayaima along with nine others have been sentenced to ten years rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 10 thousand each.

They would undergo an additional two years of imprisonment in case they fail to pay the fine.

Under section 18 of UA (P) Act, Sanayaima along with nine others have been sentenced to rigorous imprisonment of eight years and imposed a fine of Rs 10 thousand each. All of them would face a jail term of one year in case they do not pay the fine. Under Section 18 B of UA (P) Act, Sanayaima has been sentenced to rigorous imprisonment for seven years and a fine of Rs 20 thousand imposed on him.

Under Section 20 UA (P) Act, he along with all other 17 convicts have been sentenced to rigorous imprisonment of seven years with a fine of Rs 10 thousand each.

They will face jail term

Former UNLF chairman RK Meghen alias Sanayaima along with 17 other members of the banned outfit have been convicted by a Special NIA Court

of another one year if they fail to pay the fine.

Under Section 122 IPC, the former UNLF chairman has been sentenced to rigorous imprisonment of ten years and a fine of Rs 20 thousand and in default of payment of fine for further two years imprisonment.

The Court order mentioned that all the sentences against RK Sanayaima shall run concurrently. The order further said that all the seized properties would be confiscated in favour of the State in due course and the period of detention undergone by him

during trial would be set off under Section 428 CrPC. Other members of the outfit who are convicted under the 121 A IPC and 18 of UA (P) Act and who are sentenced to rigorous imprisonment of ten years and a fine of Rs 10 thousand each include S Rakesh, O Samarjit Singh alias Naresh alias Kadeng, W Noren Singh alias Thoiba, K Jeeten Singh alias Khombo alias Dene, S Gune Singh alias Boy alias Wanglen alias Little Boy, M Ibohal Singh alias Ngamba alias Sanjay, N Dilip Singh alias Ibochou alias Mani, L Jatishor Singh alias

Tilemba, and UNLF former organization secretary M Joy alias Joyjao alias Nongyai alias Nilachandra.

Those who are convicted under 21 of UA (P) Act for seven years rigorous imprisonment for seven years and a fine of Rs 10 thousand each and in default of payment further imprisonment for one year include N Bomi, Y Brajabidhu and A Ibomcha Singh.

Two others who are convicted under Section 17 of UA (P) Act and sentenced to rigorous imprisonment of seven years and a fine of Rs 10 thousand and in default of one year imprisonment include Ch Bembem Chanu alias Sakhenbi alias Henbi

Under Section 121 A IPC, Sanayaima along with nine others have been sentenced to ten years rigorous imprisonment and imposed a fine of Rs 10 thousand each.

They would undergo an additional two years of imprisonment in case they fail to pay the fine.

CCpur JAC, OMTF call 24 hrs total shutdown Imphal, Jun 9 : In the light of the alleged highhandedness and brutality exhibited by the Delhi Police as well as the Manipur Rifles personnel posted at Manipur Bhawan, Sardar Patel Marg, New Delhi, the Joint Action Committee Against Anti-Tribal Bills (JAC) had an emergency meeting with the Outer Manipur Tribals' Forum (OMTF), an apex body of the Hmar Inpui, Mizo People Convention, Thadou Inpi, United Naga Council and Zomi Council this morning and resolved to impose a 24hour total shutdown in all tribal areas of Manipur from the midnight of June 8 in protest against the unprecedented use of excessive force against un-armed peaceful tribal protesters.

In a statement, the JAC urged all tribal people of Manipur to observe the shutdown to show solidarity and support to tribal brothers and sisters in Delhi. With these new

developments, the daily sit-in protest at Salphate Pumbuk, Hiangtam Lamka that was earlier slated to begin on June 9 has been re-scheduled for a latter date and details of the same should be made known to the public soon.

Medical services and emergencies, airport pick-up and drop, Electricity Department (including prepaid recharge outlets), telecom service, water supply, ongoing school/college exams, pre-planned conferences/ seminars and weddings will be exempted from the purview of the total shutdown.

The peaceful protest outside the Manipur Bhawan took a violent turn last night after the Manipur Rifles personnel posted there allegedly started assaulting the protesters physically, alleged the statement. This was followed by an unexpected ambush of lathi charge from Delhi Police personnel without prior

warning, in gross violation of the standard operating procedures, resulting in a number of tribal civilian casualties, with cuts and bruises from head to toe, without any differentiation being made between men and women protesters, the JAC said. Many tribal women including four young mothers were indiscriminately thrashed, beaten, slapped, kicked and pulled by their hairs; two young women were even groped and molested by Delhi Police.

Many men were picked up and beaten by the police even as they were leaving the protest area peacefully, it said.

It is shocking to further receive news that Chanakyapuri Police Station had detained around 60 individuals including 21 women since last night, and more than 12 hours had passed since then. On what grounds can women be arrested after dark and held for a full night in a police sta-

tion/custody is something that remains to be clarified at the earliest by the authority concerned, demanded the statement.

The injured were not spared either, as they were dragged back to police custody from the hospitals without giving them a much needed rest, it said. After the brutality and raw force exerted by the Manipur State forces on tribal protesters resulted in the gruesome death of the nine 'tribal martyrs' in Churachandpur last year, it is indeed disheartening to witness a similar senseless, vicious and discriminatory action on the part of the Delhi Police, the JAC said.

It asked as to why the democratic and peaceful protesters were dealt with such extreme violence while Chief Minister Ibobi Singh and his cohorts who openly confessed their allegiance to banned militant groups were heavily guarded.

"Let not the Union Gov-

ernment be swayed and misled by the dirty communal politics of Manipur and let the tribals no longer be seen as second class citizens with lesser human rights or easy victims of filthy political violence perpetrated by larger communities in Manipur as well as at New Delhi," it posited.

"Our fight against the nexus between the communal Manipur Government, the proscribed militant groups and the Meitei civil society organizations continues; putting a united fight for our cause gains importance with each passing day.

Hence, it is our humble request to the tribals of Manipur, both at home and elsewhere, to start preparing ourselves for any eventuality as we embark on a new phase of the Tribal Movement that has the potential to change our history forever," it added.(Agencies)

Stir affects normal life, 8 vehicles damaged Imphal, Jun 9: The 15hour cease work stir imposed by JCILPS affected normal life in the State capital on Wednesday. Although private vehicles were seen plying on the roads, most of the parking lots of passenger vehicles were deserted due to suspension of passenger services.

All the shops, business establishments, petrol pumps, cinema halls remained shut during the stir. Government offices also recorded low attendance hampering normal functioning of these offices. All the Ima markets and shops at Paona and Thangal Keithels also remained closed during the cease work stir. However, some street vendors were seen selling their wares at Khwairamband market.

People who came to Imphal early in the

Stir affects normal life, 8 vehicles damaged morning faced inconvenience in returning home due to the sudden imposition of a bandh on Uripok-Kangchup road at different localities between BT flyover and Naoremthong bazar from 11 am in support of the cease work stir.

The bandh supporters placed tree branches and other objects on the road apart from burning tyres at Sorbon Thingel, Uripok RIMS crossing, Uripok Polem Leikai, Uripok Boys School crossing and Naoremthong bazar and

N a o r e m t h o n g Khumanthem Leikai etc.

However, the bandh supporters gave free passage to media persons, school vans and essential services staff.

Some passers-by expressed dissatisfaction over the imposition of a sudden bandh as the JCILPS' call for the day was to stage cease work stir.

Police were seen deployed at various places along UripokKangchup road to thwart untoward inci-

dents.

Meanwhile, people clamped bandhs at Lamlai, Chalou, N o n g a d a Leimakhongmapal in Imphal East district in support of the JCILPS' cease work stir. Eight vehicles including three auto rickshaws, one Maruti Alto car, one Versa car and one Suzuki Access scooter were damaged by bandh supporters.

On the other hand, in response to JCILPS' call, people blocked road, staged sit-in-protest, formed human chains and raised slogans at different localities on Wangkhei-Irilbung road on wednesday .

No vehicle except for those on religious activities, media persons and emergency services staff were allowed to pass these localities during the stir. Sit-in-

alias Pempem and Mrs Londhoni Devi.

The Court order said that bail bonds of S Rakesh, Mrs Londhoni and M Bomi stand cancelled and jail warrants have to be issued immediately.

All seized properties shall be confiscated in favour of the State in due course and the period of detention undergone by the alleged accused in the case shall be set off under Section 428 CrPC, the order said.

It may be mentioned that Sanayaima was arrested by a team of NIA on September 29, 2010. Since then he has been lodged in NIA custody till on Wednesday.

All of them have been facing trials since 2010.(Agencies)

protests were staged at Wangkhei Keithel Ashangbi community hall, Wangkhei Puja Lampak, Wangkhei Meihoubam Lampak, Wangkhei Tokpam Leikai, Kongba bazar, Kongba Khunou, Kongba Kshetri Leikai and Irilbung bazar.

People also formed human chains and shouted slogans like 'implement ILPS in Manipur', 'convert the three Bills passed by the State Assembly into Acts', 'take up positive steps regarding the agreement inked between the State Government and JCILPS', 'State Govt cannot suppress the ongoing ILPS movement by announcing wanted tag on Kh Ratan and arresting students' and 'we condemn wanted tag on Kh Ratan'.(Agencies)

Dissidents unhappy over AICC inaction Shillong, Jun 9: There is unrest among Congress dissidents over the delay in the appointment of a new AICC general secretary in charge Meghalaya and also since the party high command has not been taking keen interest in solving the current resentment against Chief Minister Mukul Sangma, which according to the legislators can go out of hand. After AICC leader V. Narayanasamy, who was looking after the affairs of Meghalaya, assumed office as the Chief Minister of Puducherry on Monday, there has been no communication from Delhi on the appointment of a new leader in charge of Meghalaya.

Earlier, it was reported that AICC general secretary Mukul Wasnik will take over as the new leader in charge of Meghalaya, but there has been no official word on his new assignment.

A section of dissidents feel that if there is no emergency treatment by the high command, the State Congress may go the Arunachal way as all is not well within the Congress even though the chief minister had painted a perfect picture of unity in the CLP in the letter he had sent to the Congress high command recently.

Sources said on Wednesday that the silence of the dissidents may turn out to be a lull before the storm as many Congress dissidents do not want to contest from the party anymore. Though MPCC president D.D. Lapang had earlier reiterated that he did not want to encourage any split in the CLP, there are a few young Congress legislators who feel that they should walk out of the CLP to form an alternate government with the support of like-minded parties.

Meanwhile sources said that the much awaited cabinet reshuffle to satisfy the disgruntled legislators is unlikely to take place as the chief minister has to first get the nod of AICC in this regard. Speculation was rife throughout the day on Wednesday that the chief minister has re-adjusted the portfolios among the ministers without dropping anyone, but it later turned out to be a rumour.

(Agencies)

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 10

PAGE 6

Maneka Gandhi slams Environment Ministry's 'lust' to kill animals New Delhi, June 9: Union Minister for Women and Child DevelopmentManeka Gandhi on Thursday trained guns at her cabinet colleague Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar and said the latter's ministry is frivolously granting permission to kill innocent animals.

On the reports of large number of deer being killed in Patna in Bihar, Gandhi told that she does not understand this 'lust' to kill. "The Environment Ministry here is writing to every state asking them which animal they want to kill and they will grant permission. In Bengal they gave permission to kill elephants, in Himachal they gave per-

mission to kill monkeys, in Goa they gave permission to kill peacocks," said Gandhi.

"In Chandrapur where the condition is so adverse that they have already killed 53 wild boars and permission to kill 50 more has been given. Environment Ministries own wildlife department said that they don't want to kill animals and should not be pressurised for the same. I don't understand this lust for killing," she added.

Gandhi further castigated the killing of animals across the nation and said, that it is matter of shame that none of the locals want to kill deer, so to complete the task the environment ministry had to hire shooters from

'Working on Mallya's extradition to enable him to face justice': Jayant Sinha

Minister of State for Finance, Jayant Sinha New Delhi, Jun 9: Minister of State for Finance, Jayant Sinha on Thursday said the government is working on the extradition of liquor baron Vijay Mallya from Britain, who is on a run after owing more than Rs 9,000 crores to the banks.

Sinha told the government has filed for Mallya's extradition from the United Kingdom, adding it is a lengthy legal process.

"We have filed for extradition; it is lengthy legal process that has to be approved by the UK judicial system," he said. "On our end we will do everything possible, and hopefully, we will be able to enable him to face justice in India," he added.

The Enforcement Directorate, which has been

probing Mallya, had also issued a non-bailable warrant against him. The agency alleges that out of the Rs. 900 crores loan taken from IDBI bank in 2009, Rs. 430 crores had allegedly been dispatched illegally outside the country.

Both the Enforcement Directorate and the Central Bureau of Investigation are probing Mallya for the Rs. 9,000 crores loan scam. Mallya had taken this amount as loan from several banks in order to pay dues of his now defunct Kingfisher Airlines.

Despite Mallya's visa getting cancelled by the Indian government recently, the liquor baron has managed to stay on in the United Kingdom.(ANI)

Centre to review progress of 'urban schemes' in Punjab, Haryana Chandigarh, Jun 9: The Urban Development Ministry will today review the progress in implementation of its various schemes in Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh. According to a press release issued by the ministry, Urban Development Secretary Rajiv Gauba will take stock of implementation of new urban missions Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), Smart City Mission and

Swachh Bharat Mission in a meeting here.

The meeting will be held as a part of state-wise review being held by the Ministry of Urban Development.

Similar review meetings were earlier held in Bengaluru, Mumbai, Jaipur and Visakhapatnam.

20 cities in Haryana, 16 in Punjab and Chandigarh have been included in the AMRUT which is aimed at improving basic urban infrastructure. (ANI)

Bihar: Bhojpur Deputy Mayor Basant Singh shot at Bhojpur, Jun 9: Deputy Mayor of Bhojpur Basant Singh was shot at by unidentified assailants in Arrah, Bihar on Thursday. Singh was out on a stroll around 5 am in the morning, when three men on a bike opened fire on him.

Gravely injured, especially in the hip, Singh was rushed to the nearby hospital, where the doctors decided to send him to Patna for further treatment. The police has launched a manhunt to nab the assailants, who are on the loose. (ANI)

from Bihar, no head of any village or any farmer asked for the killing. And it is a matter of shame that they had to get shooters from Hyderabad to kill animals," she added.

According to reports, the Union government recently declared monkeys as 'vermin and cleared the decks for their largescale extermination in Shimla Meanwhile in Goa, a call Union Minister for Women and Child DevelopmentManeka Gandhi a different state.

"The shooters hail from a family which comes from Hyderabad and they roam around the nation and kill animals. Such incident has taken place first time in Bihar. Such

a massacre has never taken place, where Deers which is a protected animal in huge numbers have been killed," said Gandhi.

"The point which should be noted is that no one

was made to cull India's national bird peacock citing the reason that the bird is creating a problem for farmers and are destroying their cultivation in rural areas.

Similarly, in Maharashtra the local forest department culled a whooping 300 animals in the past few months after several farmers reported huge losses due to crop raids. (ANI)

"The Environment Ministry here is writing to every state asking them which animal they want to kill and they will grant permission. In Bengal they gave permission to kill elephants, in Himachal they gave permission to kill monkeys, in Goa they gave permission to kill peacocks," -says Gandhi

US lawmakers bill for special global ties with India Washington, Jun 9 : Two top US lawmakers have introduced a legislation in the House of Representatives to designate India as a Special Global Partner of America and take steps to ramp up engagement and deepen bilateral collaboration on a host of issues including defence.

Introduced by Congressman Eliot Engel, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Vice Chair of the House Democratic Caucus Joe Crowley, the "Special Global Partnership with India Act 2016" aims to enhance ties between India and the US by elevating the status of the bilateral relationship.

The Special Global Partnership with India

Act of 2016 calls for Congress to elevate the US-India relationship by designating India as a Special Global Partner of the US, leading to greater cooperation across sectors ranging from defense and space to entrepreneurship and innovation.

It (HR. 5387) would also amend the Arms Export Control Act, allowing the President to include India among our closest allies. This bill would also authorize the US President to give India an exception to allow for strategic trade authority, and codify assistance in all areas that would support key priorities, such as education, growth in the digital sector, and environmental protection.

"This bill would give our relationship the status it deserves by naming India a Special Global Partner and ensuring that our close collaboration continues for years to come," Engel said after he introduced the Act after listening to the Prime Minister addressing the joint session of the US Congress.

"I just had the honor to watch Prime Minister Modi address a Joint Meeting of Congress, and it is clear that the United States and India are successfully steering our relationship from contention to cooperation," he said. "From defense to scientific research, from climate change to economic innovation, we are working more closely with the people and government

of India than ever before. Now we need to make those ties even stronger," Engel said.

"The US-India relationship rooted in shared democratic values and strong peopleto-people ties is one of the world's most rapidly growing partnerships, and? I believe that a strong US-India relationship should and will serve as a cornerstone of US foreign policy in decades ahead," Congressman Crowley said. "By naming India a Special Global Partner, we can further solidify our critical, strategic partnership and continue our shared efforts in opening in the next chapter of US-India relations," Crowley said in a statement.(PTI)

'Udta Punjab' war: Hearing to resume in Bombay HC Mumbai, Jun 9: The Bombay High Court will resume its hearing on Thursday in the case of the upcoming movie 'Udta Punjab', where its producers court have filed a plea against an order of the Review Committee of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) seeking cuts in the movie.

The High Court allowed the company to amend its petition allowing them to challenge the Censor Board's order suggesting 13 cuts in the film. With the 'Udta Punjab' issue turning into a war between co-producer Anurag Kashyap and CBFC chairperson Pahlaj Nihalani, the producers yesterday moved the Bombay High

Court seeking a copy of the order of the Censor Board Review Committee report on the film.

The CBFC is said to have demanded an alteration of the narrative with as many as 89 cuts. The makers were apparently even asked to drop 'Punjab' from the title and it was suggested that the film be set in a fictitious backdrop instead of a particular state.

Sources close to the Censor Board indicate towards political pressure being put in wake of the Punjab assembly elections expected to be held early next year. Co-produced by Phantom Films and Balaji Motion Pictures, ' Udta Punjab' stars Shahid Kapoor, Alia Bhatt,

The Bombay High Court will resume its hearing on Thursday Kareena Kapoor Khan and Punjabi singer- actor Diljit Dosanjh.

The film which attempts to bring on screen the problem of drug abuse among the youth of

Punjab is slated to release on June 17. However, it now seems the release is likely to get delayed courtesy the fresh controversies surrounding the film and its co-producer. (ANI)

Swedish Maj Gen to head UN mission in India, Pak United Nations, Jun 9 : A high-ranking Swedish military official will be the new head of the United Nations mission tasked with monitoring the ceasefire line between India and Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir. Major General Per Gustaf Lodin, 59, also a logistics expert, was appointed by UN Secretary-General Ban Kimoon as the Chief Military Observer and Head of Mission for the United Nations Military Observer Group (UNMOGIP) in India and Pakistan, the

UN said.

Maj Gen Lodin succeeds Major General Delali Johnson Sakyi of Ghana, who completes his twoyear assignment as Chief Military Observer and Head of Mission for the UNMOGIP on July 2. India has maintained that UNMOGIP has outlived its utility and is irrelevant after the Simla Agreement and the consequent establishment of the Line of Control (LoC).

With a military career in the Swedish Army beginning in 1978, Major Gen-

eral Lodin most recently held the position of Director of Procurement and Logistics for the Swedish Armed Forces. Previous to this, he was the Deputy Director of the National Armaments for Sweden and Deputy Chief of Staff at the Swedish Armed Forces.

According to the Security Council mandate given in Resolution 307 of 1971, UNMOGIP observes and reports on ceasefire violations along and across the Line of Control and the

working boundary between the nuclear-armed South Asian neighbours in Jammu and Kashmir, as well as reports developments that could lead to ceasefire violations.

As of March 31 this year, UNMOGIP has 44 military observers, 25 international civilian personnel and 47 local civilian staff.

The observer group is financed by the United Nations regular budget and appropriations for biennium 2014 -- 2015 are 19.64 million dollars.(PTI)

Six Indian fishermen apprehended by Lankan Navy

Six Indian fishermen apprehended by Lankan Navy Rameshwaram, Jun 9: As many as six Indian fishermen and one boat were apprehended by the Sri Lankan Navy at Gulf of Mannar in early morning hours on Wednesday.

The apprehended fishermen have been taken to the Mannar Naval Camp.

As reported, the fishermen were arrested at around 4 a.m.

Earlier on June 5, the Sri Lankan Navy had apprehended four Indian fishermen and one boat were apprehended at Neduntheevu. Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa had earlier written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi urging him to help release the

four Indian fishermen, who were arrested by the Sri Lankan Navy earlier on Thursday.

There have been several alleged incidents of Sri Lankan Navy personnel firing on Indian fishermen fishing in the Palk Strait, where New Delhi and Colombo are separated by only 12 nautical miles. The Sri Lankan Government wants India to ban use of mechanized trawlers in the Palk Strait region and negotiations on the same are going on.

The Indian Government has always taken up the issue of safety of Indian fishermen on a priority basis with the Sri Lankan Government. (ANI)

Gulberg massacre: Quantum of punishment likely to be pronounced on Thursday New Delhi, Jun 9: A special Ahmedabad court, which convicted 24 of the 66 accused in the 2002 post-Godhra Gulberg society riots case, is likely to pronounce the quantum of punishment on Thursday.

The prosecution had sought nothing less than death sentence or jail term till death for all the convicts while the defence lawyers contested that the incident was spontaneous and there were enough provocations for it. Judge P.B. Desai had earlier on June 2 convicted 11 persons of offences including murder, while 13 others were charged with lesser offences. The court had acquitted 36 others.

The hearing on quantum of sentence had earlier taken place on Monday.

The quantum of sentence

will be pronounced after conclusion of their submissions. During debate over the quantum of sentence earlier this week, public prosecutor, RC Kodekar, had sought nothing less than death sentence or jail term till death for all the 24 convicts.

The court said there is no evidence of criminal conspiracy in the case, while dropping Section 120 B of the Indian Penal Code (IPC). Out of the 66 accused, six had died during the trial. Of the 24 convicted today, 11 have been charged with murder, while 13 others have been convicted for lesser offences. The 24 convicted includes VHP leader Atul Vaidya. The quantum of punishment for those convicted in the case will be delivered on June 6. (ANI)

Former Kerala Assembly Speaker passes away Thiruvananthapuram, Jun 9: Former Kerala Assembly Speaker T S John passed away at a hospital at Chertala in Alapuzha this morning.

John (74) passed away due to old age related ailments, family sources said. His wife had predeceased him and he is survived by a son, they said.

John, who was a leader of a faction of the Kerala Congress (Secular), had also served as a minister in the A K Antony cabinet. An active member of students movements while at SB College, Changanachery, he subsequently became a Member of Kaviyoor Panchayat.

A lawyer by profession, John, one of the founder members of Kerala Congress, was elected to the

assembly from Kalooppara constituency four times. He became a Member of the Assembly for the first time as a Kerala Congress Member.

John, who was Speaker of the fourth Kerala Assembly for a short period from February 17, 1976 to March 25, 1977, had also served as the Minister for Food & Civil Supplies from October 19, 1978 to October 27, 1978 in the Antony Ministry. In the reconstituted Ministry that followed under the leadership of P K Vasudevan Nair, he continued to be the Minister for Food & Civil Supplies, from October 29, 1978 to October 7 1979.(PTI)

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 10

PAGE 7

NEIGHBOURS

Pakistanis living abroad face 'property- grab` back home Islamabad, Jun 9: Almost 10 million Pakistanis, who are living abroad, lack support from the country's diplomatic missions in their respective countries and have to suffer many problems like land grabbing of properties back home, a report submitted by a Senate Standing Committee on Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development says.

As per the report, the overseas Pakistanis, who contribute over 18.45 billion USD to the national

Nationwide strike hits Nepal Kathmandu, Jun 9: A nationwide strike called by the Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist (CPNMaoist) on Thursday crippled life in many parts of Nepal. The party, led

by General Secretary Netra Bikram Chand, launched the strike demanding the release of its cadres arrested during previous protests, agency reported.

Vehicular movement came to a standstill while educational institutions, private offices and markets were closed. However, the strike had little impact in the Kathmandu valley.

The strike enforcers torched a taxi and vandalised a public micro bus in the capital for defying the strike.

According to the Metropolitan Police Range, nearly two dozen party cadres were arrested from different parts of the city for forcing people to shut down their businesses.

Police also nabbed two people with petrol bombs in Bhaktapur.(Agencies)

PM Modi departs for India after completing his five-nation tour Los Pinos (Mexico), June 9 : Following the completion of his five nation tour, Prime Minister Narendra Modi today departed for New Delhi after the final leg of his visit at Mexico.

"Thank you, Mexico. New era in India - Mexico relations have begun and the relationship will benefit our people and the world," the Prime Minister tweeted in Spanish.

Prime Minister Modi thanked Mexico for its positive and constructive support for India's membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) following delegation level talks with Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto.

The highlight of his visit was his historic address at the joint session of the U.S. Congress at Capitol Hill, Washington D.C. where he lauded the bonds between the two nations, saying that freedom and liberty were the key elements that strengthened ties between them, adding that both countries had overcome the hesitations of history.

This was the Prime Minister's fourth U.S. visit since assuming office in 2014.

He also visited Afghanistan, Qatar and Switzerland in his five-nation tour.

"Five days, five countries!

After a productive visit to Mexico, the last leg of his journey, PM departs for Delhi," Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Official Spokesperson Vikas Swarup tweeted.

The Prime Minister is expected to land at the Palam airport in the national capital on Friday morning at 5 am. (ANI)

economy, have to face corrupt practices at all levels in the country. They are easily exploited and abused by immigration officials, fake visa agents, job promoters and human traffickers, the Express Tribune reports.

The main problem faced by them is the seizure of their properties in Pakistan by criminal elements.

The report says, "Properties of overseas Pakistanis are encroached (upon in Pakistan) and no department extends the desired help, while court cases

Pakistanis living abroad face 'property- grab` back home take (a) long (time to settle) and cannot be pur-

sued, while overseas Pakistanis reside abroad."

The report pointed out that favouritism and political appointments at Pakistani embassies are one of the main reasons for mounting complaints by the Pakistanis abroad about Pakistani diplomats' disinterest in redressing their grievances.

The report also says that officials at the Pakistani embassies in foreign countries are compromising their integrity and functioning on merit. The document also states that Pakistanis living abroad faced problems on

11 killed in Baghdad suicide attacks

NADRA-related issues and other official procedures such as renewal of passports and issuance of visas.

The report submitted by the Senate panel has urged the government to issue directives to the respective ministries to tackle the issues including illegal human trafficking by agents, exploitation by fake re- 11 persons were killed and 40 others wounded on cruiting agencies for isThursday suance of visas, ignorance of host country Baghdad, Jun 9: At at least seven persons and laws by recruited work- least 11 persons were injuring 30 others, an ers. (ANI) killed and 40 others agency reported. The wounded on Thursday in other attack occurred two suicide bomb attacks when a suicide bomber in Iraq's capital Baghdad, detonated his explosive police said. vest at the entrance of a In one attack, a suicide military base in Taji bomber detonated his car area, killing four solbomb amid a big crowd diers and wounding 10 police near a cinema building in others, al-Jadida district, killing added.(Agencies)

Japan protests as Chinese Navy sails near disputed isles Tokyo, Jun 9: A Chinese naval ship sailed into waters surrounding disputed East China Sea islands for the first time early Thursday, prompting Tokyo to summon the Chinese ambassador to protest, the Japanese government said. Russian naval ships were also seen in the area around the same time.

A Chinese naval vessel entered waters surrounding the Tokyo-administered isles, called Senkaku in Japan and also claimed as the Diaoyu islands by China, around 00:50 am (1550 GMT Wednesday), according to the Japanese foreign ministry. It was a 3,963-ton Jiangkai class frigate, spotted by Japan`s guided-missile destroyer Setogiri, the Japanese defence ministry said.

Contiguous waters are a

12-nautical-mile band that extends beyond territorial waters. Under international rules, they are not the preserve of any single country, although the resident power has certain limited rights. "The fact that (China) sent a naval ship to the contiguous waters of our Senkaku Islands for the first time is an act that unilaterally increases tension and our nation is gravely concerned," Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told a regular briefing.

Relations between Japan and China deteriorated in 2012 when Tokyo "nationalised" some of the islets. Since then, the two largest Asian economies have taken gradual steps to mend fences but relations remain tense. Japanese Vice Foreign Minister

Akitaka Saiki summoned Chinese ambassador Cheng Yonghua around 2:00 am to lodge a protest.

Saiki "expressed grave concerns and protested, while demanding the ship immediately leave our nation`s contiguous zone," the ministry statement said. During his meeting with Saiki, Cheng claimed the Chinese frigate was allowed to sail in the waters, Kyodo News said, citing an unnamed source.

The frigate left the zone at about 3:10 am, the Japanese government said. Japan`s Defence Minister Gen Nakatani, who was visiting Thailand, told Japanese journalists that Tokyo was taking a measured response. "We will continue our calm handling of this issue so as not to unnecessarily escalate

Japan protests as Chinese Navy sails near disputed isles the situation," Nakatani said in an televised group interview.

"We will continue to act firmly in order to defend our territorial land, waters and air space," he said. Chinese coast guard vessels routinely travel around the disputed islands. Three Russian military vessels were also seen in the waters around the disputed islands around the same time, a Japanese

defence official said.

The Russian ships entered the area around 9:50 pm Wednesday and left around 3:05 am Thursday, he said.

Suga said Japan was analysing whether the Chinese and Russian moves were in anyway related. But he added that a lack of territorial disputes with Russia in the regional waters made its moves less concerning.(Agencies)

NSG membership: Pak seeks support from Russia, South Korea, New Zealand Karachi, June 9 : In order to mobilise support for the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) membership, Pakistan has maintained its diplomatic push after the United States backed India's bid to join the 48-nation club of nuclear trading countries.

Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's adviser on foreign affairs Sartaj Aziz yesterday had a telephonic conversation with the foreign ministers of Russia, South Korea and New Zealand in order to gain support for the country's application for NSG membership, reports Express Tribune.

Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Tasnim Aslam at a

Sartaj Aziz detailed briefing for diplomatic missions of the NSG countries in Islamabad highlighted the factors, which placed Islamabad's application for a NSG membership on solid grounds, including country's technical

experience, capability and well-established commitment to non-proliferation and nuclear safety and security.

Pakistan's Ambassador to Austria, Ayesha Riyaz, had in a letter addressed to NSG chairman Rafael

Grossi on May 19 said the decision to seek membership in the group reflected Islamabad's support for international efforts aimed at preventing the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. " Pakistan has the expertise, manpower, infrastructure and ability to supply NSG-controlled items, goods and services for a full range of nuclear applications for peaceful uses," the letter read while urging the NSG to adopt a non-discriminatory criteria-based approach for group membership.

Islamabad sought a membership of the exclusive nuclear trading club after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi se-

cured Washington's backing for New Delhi's bid for a membership.

The support of Mexico and Switzerland is seen as important in the wake of China opposing India's NSG membership arguing that it was not a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT).

The US and many other NSG member countries have supported India's inclusion based on its non-proliferation track record.

The NSG is a 48-nation club dedicated to curbing nuclear arms proliferation by controlling the export and re-transfer of materials that could foster nuclear weapons development.

(ANI)

World Bank report says Pakistan`s infant mortality rate nearly double of India`s Islamabad, June.9 : A World Bank inter-agency group report has revealed that the infant mortality rate (IMR) in Pakistan is nearly double that of India`s and indicated that Islamabad`s slide in an important social index is due to falling investments in the healthcare sector.

According to the World Bank report, Pakistan ranks towards the bottom among countries in the world when it comes to infant and neonatal mortality.

The report developed by the UN Inter-agency Group for Child Mortality Estimation - UNICEF, WHO and World Bank, says 66 infants died for every 1000 births in 2015 in Pakistan.

This trend has been visible

for the past several years with a marginal difference in percentages.

Dr. Rehmat Beg of the Government Hospital in Karachi, said, "The economic situation in our country is not good, so, it becomes very difficult for the government to provide adequate medical facilities as compared to other countries. We are backward in facilitating medical aid. The basic health care facility is quite unstable now."

Some residents blame corruption in the government to be responsible for the failure in dealing with the cause.

Zahida Begum, a resident of Karachi, said, "Who is responsible? They are all corrupt. They all run their pri-

vate clinics and sell medicines. They don`t provide medicines to the poor and needy."

The mortality rates among children are often seen as a proxy for the level of social development in a country, since they reflect the level of nutrition, parents` education, and access to health services.

The lack of clean water and sanitation facilities in Pakistan stands out as one of the biggest impediments to reducing child mortality.

In India, improving health services and better sanitation facilities have led to a significant decline in infant mortality rate.

The number of babies who die before their first birthday for every 1,000live

births has improved from 44 in 2011 to 38 in 2015.

In many states across India, the infant fertility rate has seen significant improvement because of proactive steps taken by the government.

Saleem-ur-Rahman, Director, Health, Jammu and Kashmir, said, "Be it infant mortality rate, maternal mortality ratio, birth rate or death rate in the country Ă‚all have seen an immense improvement. The reason is that the government of India is very proactive as they have launched many programmes and upgraded many others. There are many programmes child survival, save motherhood, then RCH, RCH1 and RCH2 were introduced.

Later NRHM (National Rural Health Mission) was introduced. Now, NHM is continuing. So, it`s a support and funding from the government of India which made us to upgrade the healthcare delivery system, which is pan-India. It helped us to put focus and identify the gaps. The gaps have been identified and were addressed."

Several countries in Africa like Ethiopia, Ghana and even Afghanistan have better infant mortality rates than Pakistan.

Given the facts mentioned in the World Bank report, it appears that Islamabad has a non-serious approach to the issue of infant mortality, and needs to wake up to deal with it promptly. (ANI)

Israel freezes Ramadan permits for Palestinians Jerusalem, Jun 9 : Israel said on thursday it had suspended entry permits for 83,000 Palestinians during the holy Muslim month of Ramadan following a shooting in Tel Aviv that killed four people. "All permits for Ramadan, especially permits for family visits from Judea and Samaria to Israel, are frozen," said a statement from COGAT, the unit which manages civilian affairs in the occupied West Bank. It said that 83,000 Palestinians would be affected, adding that hundreds of residents of the Gaza Strip who had received permits to visit relatives and holy sites during Ramadan would also have access frozen.

COGAT announced the measures after two Palestinians opened fire at a popular Tel Aviv nightspot near Israel's military headquarters late yesterday, killing four people in one of the worst

attacks in a months-long wave of violence. It said it had frozen permits for 204 relatives of one of the alleged attackers.

Israel had announced last week it was relaxing restrictions on the movement of Palestinians, mainly from the West Bank, but also those living in Gaza, during Ramadan. It had planned to allowed up to 500 people from Gaza to attend Friday prayers at the Israeli-controlled AlAqsa mosque compound in east Jerusalem over the holy month, which began on Monday. Violence since October has killed at least 207 Palestinians, 28 Israelis, two Americans, an Eritrean and a Sudanese. Most of the Palestinians killed were carrying out knife, gun or car-ramming attacks, according to Israeli authorities. Others were killed in clashes or by Israeli air strikes in the Gaza Strip.

(Agencies)

Deuba accuses Oli of misusing state funds

Deuba accuses Oli of misusing state funds

Kathmandu (Nepal), June 9 : Former prime minister and Nepali Congress president Sher Bahadur Deuba has blamed Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli of ignoring the implementation of the new constitution and misusing the state coffers.

Speaking at a function organized in Kathmandu on Wednesday, Deuba said Oli had totally ignored the implementation of the constitution although it has been eight months since the promulgation of the new statute.

Instead of getting down to serious business of implementation of the constitution, Oli has been giving fake assurances of distributing pipeline of cooking gas to every household and running railways and ship, alleged Deuba.

Deuba also blamed Oli of

misusing state funds as if they belonged to his party.

"After being unable to mobilize the funds donated by the donors, Oli has started misusing those funds with the help of NGOs close to his party in the name of rebuilding the earthquake-ravaged structures," said Deuba.

He also reiterated that Nepali Congress would not let Oli succeed in misusing funds from state coffers at any cost and would take any steps to foil the ill intentions of the prime minister.

During the function, which was organized to felicitate three members of a family from Sankhwasabha who scaled Mount Everest, NC leader Ram Chandra Poudel also accused Oli of jeopardizing the constitution. (ANI)

PAGE 8

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 10

The Complex Politics of the 'Inner Line Permit' in Manipur Fighting TB TB now curable with a "Miracle Drug" Assam became the first state in the country and in Asia (in the public health sector) to launch Bedaquiline (BDQ), a new 'miracle' drug, to combat multi-drug resistant tuberculosis (MDR) in an effort to fight rising MDR cases in the state. BDR has been used in the fight against tuberculosis (TB) for more than 40 years. The drug was donated to India by USA. The Centre provided BDQ to Assam free of cost.

State health officials refused to divulge the exact cost.

It was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for usage only in cases pertaining to MDR. It is estimated that in the course of three years, over 10,000 dosages of Bedaquiline will be administered. In the initial phase, over 100 samples of the drug will be provided to 100 MDR patients. It is in fact good news for the state as well as the entire country as Assam becomes the first ever state of the country to launch the drug Bedaquiline. This 'miracle' drug is the first medicine for TB in more than 40 years for the treatment of multiple drug-resistant TB. The first dose of Bedaquiline is already tried on a drug-resistant TB patient at the LGB Chest Hospital in Guwahati. The drug would be given free of cost to drug-resistant TB patients in the state.

All the people of Assam should now come out and avail the free diagnostic and treatment services under the Revised National TB Control Programme (RNTCP). The use of the drug Badequiline was formally approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on December 28, 2012 as part of a fast-track approval for use only in cases of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis and the more resistant extensively drug-resistant tuberculosis. Badequiline is the first new medicine for TB in more than 40 years.

It is specifically approved to treat multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis. The 'miracle' drug has made it to the list of Essential Medicines which is the most important medication needed in a basic health system.

Assam is one of the only six 'Drug Resistant TB Centres' set up in five states in the country. This is a sure relief for the entire country. Let's try and eradicate TB and make a healthier world.

Although the drug is expensive, the people associated with the launch of this 'miracle drug' hopes it will help the fight. Assam has witnessed a sharp rise in the number of MDR cases in recent times, and till 31 March, 2016, 1,198 suspected MDR patients were examined, of which 66 MDR patients were diagnosed and put under treatment. Six TB centres across five states in India were identified as initial sites for the launch of BDR. Tuberculosis continues to be one of the major health malaises the state faces. In 2013, out of 1,42,957 TB suspected patients who were screened, 35,600 registered as TB patients for treatment. In 2014, out of the 1,58,477 TB suspects who were screened, 38,317 patients registered as patients for treatment, and in 2015, 1,54,427 suspects who were screened, 37,975 registered as patients. Till 31 March, 2016, 39,199 suspects who were screened, 8,761 patients have been registered for treatment.

Cyber crimes Increasing at a high speed The rate at which cyber crime in India is growing is very alarming. A rough estimate indicates that the rate at which incidents are growing annually is 107 per cent. Cyber crimes reported in India rose 19 times over the last ten years (2005 to 2014), from 481 in 2005 to 9,622 in 2014, and India is now ranked thirdafter the US and China-as a source of "malicious activity" on the Internet and second as a source of "malicious code". Arrests involving cyber crimes also rose nine times from 569 in 2005 to 5,752 in 2014, according to National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data, even as more Indians logged on to the Internet. Internet subscribers in India crossed the 400 million mark, and are expected to reach 462 million

by June 2016. India was ranked third world-wide, next to US and China, as a source of malicious activity in 2015, according to this 2016 report by Symantec Corp, a software security firm. India was ranked second as a source of malicious code and fourth and eight as a source or origin for web attacks and network attacks, respectively, in 2015. As many as 9,622 cyber crimes were reported in 2014, an increase of 69% over 2013. Of the 9,622 cybercrimes reported, 7,201 were reported as offences under the Information Technology (IT) Act, 2,272 under the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and 149 under Special and Local Laws (SLL). Under the IT Act, the most-5,548 casesreported were computer-related offences, of which 4,192 were under Section 66A, which allows for jail terms up to two-three years for sending "offensive messages through communication service" and related offences. Section 66A of the IT Act was struck down by the Supreme Court in March 2015, saying, "such a law hit at the root of liberty and freedom of expression, the two cardinal pillars of democracy".

Cheating (1,115) was the most reported crime, accounting for nearly 50% of IPC crimes. Under SSL offences, copyright violation was the most reported crime (118 of 149). Maharashtra reported the most cyber crimes (1,879) in 2014, double the cases (907) of the previous year. Uttar Pradesh was second (1,737), followed by Karnataka (1,020), Telangana (703) and Rajasthan (697). The top five states accounted for 63% of all cases in 2014. As many as 5,752 people were arrested for cyber crimes in 2014, of which 5,744 were Indians and eight foreigners.

As many as 95 persons were convicted and 276 acquitted for cyber crimes in 2014.

Uttar Pradesh reported the most (1,223) arrests in 2014, followed by Maharashtra (942), Telangana (429), Madhya Pradesh (386) and Karnataka (372).

The global cost of cybercrime was estimated between $375 billion (Rs 2,512,500 crore) and $575 billion (Rs 3,852,500 crore), according to a World Bank 2016 report, quoting a 2014 study. The average per person cost of data breaches ranged from $51 in India to $201 in the United States, it said.

The call for an ILP touches on complex inter-ethnic politics in Manipur and beyond.

An Inner Line Permit or land area. Their language, ILP is a document that is Meiteilon, (also known as issued by the government Manipuri), is also the linof India for travel of an gua franca in the state, Indian citizen into a pro- and was recognized as tected area for a limited one of the national lanperiod. This practice guages of India in 1992. owes its origin to the Brit- The Meitei-Pangal also ish administration's the live in the valley; the Bengal Eastern Frontier Kukis, Nagas, Zomis, and Regulations of 1873, other smaller groups form which controlled the about 40 percent of movement of British sub- Manipur's population but jects into certain areas. In occupy the remaining 90 independent India, it has percent of the total land been seen area of both as a Ibu Sanjeeb Garg Manipur. security Out of the measure as well as an ef- total population of fort to conserve the Manipur 46 percent are ethno-social demograph- Hindu, 34 percent are ics of certain societies. Christian, and 9 percent Presently, the ILP system are Muslim. is in place for entering The debate over the ILP Nagaland, Mizoram, and hinges on the edifice of parts of Arunachal ethno-centricity, driven Pradesh. by the narrative of terriIt is with this background torial homelands with that the recent contro- historical roots and idenversy regarding the impo- tity. Today Manipur and sition of the ILP in indeed large parts of Manipur must be under- India's northeast are acstood. Manipur, with the tively engaged in an "us city of Imphal as its capi- versus them" debate. tal, is bounded by the In- While self-assertion dian states of Nagaland to movements ideologically the north, Mizoram to the seem all-encompassing in south and Assam to the parts, eventually most of west; it also borders them fall prey to the lowMyanmar to the east. The hanging fruit of exclusion state has a total popula- politics. Manipur seems tion of 2,166,788 per- no different. sons, according to the The present struggle for 2011 census. That total the ILP is centered includes a number of eth- around the Imphal valley, nic groups, with the ma- which is dominated by jor groups being the the Meiteis. The Meiteis Meiteis, the Meitei- are a resilient people with Pangals (Muslims), a rich cultural heritage as Nagas, Zomis, and Kuki. well as a long association The Meiteis, who live pri- with history. The Imphal marily in the state's val- valley is surrounded by ley region, form the pri- hills, which are inhabited mary ethnic group (60 by the Naga tribes mostly percent of the total popu- of Rongmei and lation) but occupy only Tanghkul stock. Histori10 percent of the total cally, while the Meiteis

and the surrounding hill tribes enjoyed a cordial relationship, the question of Greater Nagalim, or unification of all Nagainhabited areas, in recent times has become a perpetual thorn in this cordial relationship. Because of this burgeoning conflict, the hill tribes have mostly been immune to the issue of ILP. The other major ethnic group in Manipur, the Kukis, also refuse to be drawn into this struggle, with their sights on their own battle for an independent Kuki homeland.

In such an environment, the Meiteis of the Imphal valley fear being eventually outnumbered in their own lands. The overwhelming voice of the movement has been that ILP will ensure that outsiders will not be able to buy land in Manipur. A large part of the social narrative of Imphal valley today is that "foreigners" from Bangladesh, Burma and Nepal are taking over the Meiteis' traditional land and livelihoods. Thus, ILP is seen as a last resort against this "onslaught" from outsiders. At this point it would be worthwhile to note that Manipur already has a law that forbids nontribal people from within, as well as outside the state, from buying and owning land in the tribal or hill areas in Manipur.

Yet the debate does not limit itself to the question of entry rights alone. The demands for ILP also are supplemented by calls for granting Scheduled Tribes (ST) status to the Meiteis, which would in

Recent controversy regarding the imposition of the ILP in Manipur (Photo: e-pao)

effect turn Manipur into a complete tribal state. Such demands are rising more frequently in the northeast now; even sections in Assam are demanding tribal state status. This is seen as a guarantee against "invaders" from outside.

However in the case of Manipur, the granting of ST status to Meiteis would have far-reaching consequences. An equality of status among the hill tribes and the plains people will have ramifications on the socio-political narrative of Manipur.

In the region today, the trans-border unification of imagined communities is not limited to the Nagas alone. A unified community cutting across territorial boundaries also seems to be taking shape among the Kukis as well. At this juncture, if the Meiteis are given ST status, these identity assertions would

indeed take new dimensions, which are very hard to predict. And given the trust deficit between the Kukis and the Meiteis, any move to grant ST status would bring its own faultlines.

At the root of these demands is the question of identity; of a homeland which is squarely dependent on territory. Northeast India is composed of hundreds of tribes of varying stock and often their idea of a "historical homeland" overlaps with the idea of historical homelands for someone else.

Hence the question of ILP in Manipur is merely not a question of administration alone, but requires a deeper engagement with all stakeholders. And it is the Meitei society that has to play the larger part.

Today a large part of ethnic problems, including insurgency, stems from the question of ethnicity.

And such questions cannot be solved by administrative measures and laws alone. Manipur, once called the "crown jewel" of India, is today vexed by insurgency and low economic growth. But most of all, Manipur has become a victim of its own history and bogged down by its geography. Despite the Meiteis consistently punching above their weight in academics and sports, the twin goals of peace and development seem a distant dream.

ILP cannot hope to solve any of these issues - neither development nor the question of historic ethnic homelands. While it may or may not be a successful tool for "protecting" Meitei interests, the longterm goal has to be creative engagement with all stakeholders within society in order to bring about a developed, successful Manipur of the future.

'Arunachal Pradesh has the potential to generate 50,000 MW hydro electric power' The Centre is reviewing the meter and extrapolate the 2008 hydro power policy result to find the kind of to boost generation: NHPC rock we have to deal with.

CMD Land slides in the rainy NHPC Ltd, a Mini Ratna season are a big challenge.

Government company, is Then there are local fighting a battle on many strikes. Sudden floods affronts. The company had fect progress of work. Loprovical ems i o n e d Suresh P Iyengar ployment ?550 crore generalast fiscal for various de- tion is an issue as we are layed projects. State gov- able to give only temporary ernments are levying fee on employment through conwater the company uses to tractors who will pay generate electricity and are ?5,000-6,000 a month. In refusing to buy its high- West Bengal and Jammu cost power. In an interac- and Kashmir there are tion withBusinessLine, strikes quite often. The KM Singh, Chairman and government wants us to Managing Director, store water in the upper NHPC, exuded confidence reservoir using solar powand said most of the issues ered pumps and generate will be sorted out soon. electricity in the evening Excerpts: by flowing water down.

What are the major chal- But using the solar backlenges you face in hydro up the cost works out to ?5power projects?

5.5 a unit. The Government In the hydro power sector and consumers want cheap there are many challenges. power supply but when our Some are natural and some cost itself is over ?5 a unit are man-made and circum- how is it possible to supstantial. Under the natural, ply below this. we have geological sur- What policy changes do prises as the Himalayan you expect? rocks in India are imma- The Government is already ture. We drill for one or 1.5 working on various options

including providing longterm loan. The catch is even if we get loans for longer term and the lending rates are high it will not be of much help. Differential tariffs during peak and base load will help us. The Government is also reviewing the 2008 hydro power policy to boost generation. Over 50 countries, except for India, consider hydro power as renewable energy. Our projects will also help the country build water reservoir as fighting drought has become a burning issue in most States. In Madhya Pradesh, farmers who were struggling to cultivate once in a year are now taking three harvests a year through irrigation.

Will the state governments' water charges blunt the advantage enjoyed by the hydro power sector?

I cannot comment on this.

It is a State government subject. As of today only Jammu and Kashmir, Madhya Pradesh and Uttarakhand levy it.

Jammu and Kashmir levies

25 paise per cubic meter.

Uttarakhand started five months back and I am not sure whether it will be levied retrospectively. Madhya Pradesh also started recently.

When we argue that the tariff will increase because of this levy, the State governments say the levy is anyway reimbursed in tariff and NHPC should not worry about it. On one hand, the State governments say hydro power is costlier and on the other they are levying these charges. The Delhi government rejected our power saying it is costly. Rajasthan followed suit.. Now, West Bengal is saying Teesta Low Dam Project power is costlier. However, they are buying it from us. If that is the case, then allow NHPC to sell it in the market for ?3.40 a unit so that everybody gets cheaper power.

What changes must be made to the Hydro Power Policy 2008?

There are issues right from fixing the tariff. The policy is framed to attract only private investment in hydro projects. In 2005, the government did a feasibility re-

port and awarded projects to the private sector but most of these projects are stalled. In 2007-08, private investment poured in because the tariff then was about ?7-10 a unit in peak hour. But slowly, power tariff fell to ?2.50 a unit and all the investment made in hydro projects went dud.

The stalled private sector projects in Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh and Sikkim have good potential. There is possibility to generate 50,000 MW in Arunachal and only 405 MW has been commissioned now.

Are you considering offers from private companies for projects?

Unless and until the projects are viable we will not consider it. If the project cost is high, to whom will we sell the power to? We have done project management consultancy for Teesta-III and formed a joint venture company with the Sikkim government for operation and maintenance. We are also in discussion with the government to restart

Flouting of An Act

Image for representational purpose (Photo: todayifoundout)

Sir, Anti tobacco Act is very much in vogue in Assam. But like most other acts, people flouting the provisions with impunity. Any Government worth its salt should not pass a law, which it cannot implement. One fails to understand, why the state government is not serious about implementing Anti Tobacco Act in letter and spirit. Government's helplessness is manifested in bridling tobacco chewing, smoking when one comes across only the statutory warning - 'Tobacco kills' 'Smoking is injurious to health'. When a law is enacted it is the duty of the enforcing authority to ensure its implementation. Our experience suggests that a sizeable number of teen agers, people of all age segments are (barring few) are addicted to tobacco-taking in some form or other. A report flashed in the media suggests that the present ruling dispensation of Assam is all set to tighten its

Teesta-VI and Rangit IV. For us to chip in, somebody should take care of the debt and the tariff works out to less than ?5 a unit.

What is the progress of NHPC's stalled projects?

We have started work at Parbati project in Himachal Pradesh. The cost of the Parbati has increased as it was stalled for long. We may have to cut down on our returns from 15-16 per cent to 8-10 per cent to recover the cost over-run. Work has started in the 800 MW Parbati-II project, the new Assam government along with the progressive Himachal Chief Minister have agreed to support the 2,000 MW Lower Subansiri project. We are expecting work on the Lower Subansiri project will start by September.

We have 5,000 MW project in the pipeline, apart from the 2,800 MW stalled projects.

(This article was published in The Hindu Business Line on June 8, 2016)

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hand to bring this dangerous trend prevalent among the rank and file under control. Oral cancer in Assam is assuming an alarming proportion. It is the sheer failure of the government machinery to drive home the ill effects of the chewing of tobacco. While the erstwhile congress government in Assam was not at all interested to Letters to the implement the act, the present govern- editor and articles ment appears alive about the ill effects of tobacco chewing, we appeal to the should be sent to : The Eastern Tonew government of Assam to take effective steps to root out this evil habit day growing among the youths and old Chowkidingee, alike with iron hands to prevent fur- Near Sankardeva ther loss of life. Selling of Gutkha is rampant, it should be banned forthwith. Hospital Mancotta

Yours etc.

Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh

Road, Dibrugarh786001 (Assam) Ph: 0373-2328944 Email :

editor.easterntoday@gmail.com

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DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 10

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Dibrugarh's Ordeal Vis-Ă -vis Floods and Erosion Dibrugarh, a picturesque Brahmaputra. The facity of upper Assam situ- mous Saint Paul ated by the side of the Church, the picturmighty Brahmaputra still esque park of the Britstands tall despite threats ish, Old Government from the river Boys' High School, Old Brahmaputra. Things Circuit House all had ran smoothly up to Au- been turned into gust 1950, oblivion, but the Ashok Bordoloi h a v i n g earthquake b e e n of a high magnitude eroded away by the rocked Assam, leaving Brahmaputra. Among many places devastated, other ill effects left by Dibrugarh was the worst the devastating earthsufferer. The ferocity of quake of 1950, the river the river became all the bed of the Brahmaputra more apparent in the got elevated by 1.8 floods that followed. meter in and around Several hundreds acres Dibrugarh, as the exof lands had been perts suggested. As a eroded away from the result, flood - water intea estates of Mothola, undated Dibrugarh, Maijan, Auckland to- when the river was in wards the upper side of spate in summer. MisDibrugarh due to severe eries of the people erosion of the knew no bounds. A

good chunk of residential, farming lands had been eroded by successive floods. But fortunately for Dibrugarh, Jawaharlal Nehru, the then Prime-minister paid a visit during floods in 1955, was surprised to see the magnitude of devastation and erosion.

Nehru acrimoniously criticized the state government for doing pretty little to curb the intensity of floods. He conveyed a message loud and clear that Dibrugarh must be saved at any cost. The then state government proffered excuses showing this or that reason. But Nehru unequivocally stated, 'I am not interested in excuses for delay, I am interested only in the things done'.

Needless to add, Nehru's arrival emboldened the people of Dibrugarh who took Nehru as their messiah.

Dr. Manmohan Singh, a Rajya Sabha member of Assam, during his stint as the Prime-minster visited flood-affected Rohmoria in Dibrugarh district, assured the people of every possible help from Government of India. But his assurances subsequently proved to be mere a lipservice. The works done after what Nehru ordered did not last for long because of wear and tear of time. Moreover, due to shallow river bed, the river became in spate after incessant rains and inundated most of the parts of Dibrugarh. if we

remember right, Prithvi Majhi, the then water resource minister arranged to bring few dredgers to Dibrugarh for dredging the Brahmaputra's bed.

But the plan was aborted midway for reasons not known. The state of affairs started worsening with each passing year as no national politician could be seen by the side of the people in the hour of crisis and what is more, the then E.N.D. (now water Resource Deptt.) officials used this as a goose laying golden eggs. The table is turned now as the people are conscious and with the new state government in place optimism among the people is all pervasive. The works of the the renovation and

Thana Chariali of Dibrugarh town under the fury of artificial floods, 2015 (Photo: im.rediff) strengthening of the embankment surrounding Dibrugarh are in full swing with the aid of money received from the Asian Development Bank. But still the people of Dibrugarh are haunted by artificial

floods caused by incessant rains. The local Municipality in alliance with the relevant state machinery have done pretty little to address this menace. The three time M.L.A of Dibrugarh should take proper initia-

tive to curb the menace of the artificial floods.

The Municipality also in league with the water Resource department must hammer out a solution to relieve the people from the fury of artificial floods.

11 Ways To Keep Children At School Safe Ignorance can be frustrating the chance of risks from accidents.

9) Police Deployment: Crossing busy roads is one of the most difficult tasks which a person has to learn in his/her life. The death toll of road accidents is really alarming. Many of these deaths occur due to unsafe road crossing practices.Deployment of police personnel in school zones will ensure safe crossing of roads and encourage others to follow the rules.

10) School Safety Committee: A school safety committee should be constituted to ensure and monitor the safety practices of the school. The safety committee should include the Principal/Headmaster/ Headmistress, PTA authority, staff and student representatives and ward members.

11) Forming Walking Clubs: The IWALK Club, for example, which is part of the Active & Safe Route to School Program in America, is a novel initiative. Such clubs promote walking and cycling among the school going students, which in turn help them to lead a healthy lifestyle. This initiative could also be used to advocate for better road safety measures and pedestrian infrastructure.

Similar clubs can be started in each school and the progress can be recorded with periodical evaluation. One staff member of the school can be appointed as the monitoring authority along with the club leader who must be a student of the school.

Safety is never ever an option but a default priority. Don't wait to cure it. It's better to prevent it.

Courtesy: Youthkiawaaz

"Believe that life is worth living and your belief will help create the fact." - William James Many of us were labeled as objects of ridicule or laughter at some point of time.

Unfavourable tags were given without asking our consent and those names never left us alone during our bygone school and college days. Any trait of yours might be the cause that makes your life hell- what you wear, habits, bodily structure, get-up and for something which is not shared by a majority of students. A boy is ridiculed scornfully if he imitates girlish ways and a girl gets smiles of mockery if she is a tomboy. And as a result you are always exempted from the groupings as you tend to be the odd out person. Unknowingly, you become a celebrity among your classmates but not in its favourable sense. You are hardly invited to get-together and you get to know about it after that informal party is over. After you log in to your social networking

account, you see pictures of your classmates posted on their accounts and they seem so happy that no one shows any sign of sadness and insouciance for your absence. You find yourself no less than an alien from outer space wandering here and there trying to look for a corner where you can sit alone and ponder over the cause of their behaviours. For that you spend

mous bully in English literature.

As literature reflects the world around us, we have writers who expose the stuff that happen in institutions. The movie Princess Diaries is an instance where Mia Thermopolis, a girl with unusual get up discovers a secret about her that she is the new heir to the throne of Genovia.

This sudden sort of reversal of fortune from bad to good

schools and colleges. Children should be taught from the very childhood to accept someone as he/she is and not to make fun of others. To retain the ideology that humans are cultured beings, harassment, torture, teasing etc are to be thrown out of the domain of Culture.

Anupom Kumar Hazarika can be reached at email idanupom001 @gmail.com

The Reasons Why Kiran Bedi Was Appointed Lt. Governor Of Puducherry

Continuing To Abuse The Office Of The Governor Both Congress and the BJP are guilty of politically abusing appointments to governorships, a constitutional role that should be occupied by someone apolitical. The best-known example is Delhi, where the BJP allegedly exploits the office of the Lt. Governor to exert political influence and subvert the AAP government's efforts.

The most recent example of this is the proposed appbased premium bus service, which was red-flagged by the Lt. Governor. The more publicised incidents include the hijacking of the ACB, the DDCA row, and the JNU case.

Will Bedi be a political pawn in Puducherry? The timing of the appointment suggests so. In fact, the appointment

came three days after the Congress-DMK alliance won 17 seats in the 30member Puducherry Assembly.

Here's another point to consider: the office of the Lt. Governor of Puducherry had been vacant for two years and was being administered by the Lt. Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Island (Lt. Gen. A. K. Singh). This fact further brings into question the timing of Bedi's appointment. After all, why was there a sudden need to fill this position?

A Governor is the representative of the President of India to the State. Similar to the President, the Governor is supposed to ensure that the state government is upholding the Constitution. Unfortunately, gover-

norships have become a place for the unelectable, but politically connected, to live out their remaining years. Sheila Dikshit's appointment as Governor of Kerala - albeit short-lived is telling.

Although there was no imminent possibility of Bedi rejoining forces with AAP, reporters have continuously asked Kejriwal whether he would ever welcome prominent dissenters such as Prashant Bhushan, Yogendra Yadav, or Kiran Bedi, back into the fold, to which he has said AAP's doors are always open.

Well, packing Bedi off to Puducherry, as far away from the AAP stronghold as is geographically possible, certainly seems to close this door - at least for now. Courtesy: Youthkiawaaz

Accidents are always tragic. If the death is of our near and dear ones it is even more so. I am writing this over the concern over the safety of children who are pursuing their school education. This has to be one of the relevant topics which need to be discussed at the start of a new academic year. But we fail to do so and ignore this discussion which in turn creates more student casualties every year. The main reason for this is that we only know the value of what is lost when it is gone.

themselves. The presence of stray dogs, lack of proper sign boards, speed breakers etc. are also major causal factors to student fatalities. A safe route to school audit should be conducted periodically by the school management and local governments to trace out the obstructions and challenges faced by the students. This will help in finding the safest routes to school and ensure safety for students.

2) School Infrastructure Audit: School infrastructure is

ties to create a better and safe learning environment for the students.

3) School Environment Audit: Safety of the school premises will avoid a lot of casualties. Many casualties have been reported due to the collapse of heavy tree branches which were failed to be removed. Lack of an environment audit can lead to waterborne diseases due to the monsoon. The school authorities should initiate necessary action for keeping the environment and students safe.

4) School Bus:

Representation only. Credit: Sakib Ali/HT (Photo: Getty Images.)

These are some suggestions which came to my mind as part of thinking and research on school and students safety.

1) School Route Audit: Accidents of school students often occur during their commute to the school. This happens because we haven't yet successfully ensured safety on the roads around schools.

Footpaths are often in a bad condition which forces the students to walk on the road and invite trouble for

Kiran Bedi's national prominence is undisputed. Bedi was the first woman to have joined the officer ranks of Indian Police Service (IPS).

During her 35-year tenure, she reached the highest rank of the IPS (Director General of Police Research and Development). Bedi had also served as police advisor to Secretary General in United Nations in the Department of Peace Keeping Operations in New York.

However, given her disastrous performance in the 2015 Delhi elections as the chief ministerial candidate, her political relevance is ques-

another major concern.

Many students have died or have been injured due to poor infrastructure in the school. We should not wait to initiate construction or maintenance of the roofs until they collapse and create trouble. Also, the provision of safe drinking water is never a supplement but is a student's right.

The school authorities should always be keen about auditing the school infrastructure and ameni-

tionable. Which is why her most recent posting as the Lt. Governor of Puducherry is a curious one. On one hand it signals a certain political relevance - that Bedi is considered a leader in the BJP. On the other hand, it remains rather symbolic - a pity posting to temporarily appease Bedi, but more importantly, an apology from the BJP's senior leadership to the party at large. As someone who worked extensively on the Delhi election campaign, I find considerable evidence to support the latter rationale.

A school bus is considered as the safest travel option for students. Most of the parents tend to make sure their children go to school in a school bus so that they can be free from worries.

This makes the safety of school buses an important issue to be considered.

School buses should follow clear mandates including the seat-student ratio, display of emergency numbers and tracking systems which can provide the best travel experience for the

Here's why.

Bedi Is A Bureaucrat, Not A Political Leader For one, Bedi is a bureaucrat, not a political leader. Her stature stems from the work she championed or accomplished as a high-ranking bureaucrat within government institutions. Her leadership style is authoritarian, in the sense that her subordinates obey her because they have no choice. If anything, Bedi flourishes within a strict hierarchy. While this enabled her to excel as an IPS officer, her inability to connect with people was a major contributor to her epic

students.

5) Road Safety Education: It is hard to believe that road safety is still not part of the mandatory syllabus in our schools. Students usually walk into trouble due to their lack of proper road safety awareness.

The negligence in imparting road safety education puts the life of students at risk. Education about safety should purposefully start from lower primary itself to make sure that they observe and inculcate this culture throughout their life.

6) Emergency Numbers: Display of emergency numbers in school will be a great benefit for the students and other staff.

This will bring confidence and will also cultivate an attitude of seeking help when they face difficult situations. The numbers should be prominently displayed in the school and also should be included In the school diary. Emergency numbers should include the contact numbers of the local police station, ambulance, children's helpline, school principal and PTA authority.

7) Cycle Sheds: Provision of cycle sheds would encourage the students to travel to school by cycle and also develop a good parking attitude.

This will indirectly impart the need and necessity of safe parking along with the health benefits which can be achieved through cycling.

8) First Aid Service: It is no longer a question as to whether or not to provide first aid to the students. Injuries can happen at any moment and delay in proper medical aid can lead that to serious issues.

The provision of first aid by a specialist can reduce

failure from the safest BJP assembly constituency during the 2015 Delhi elections. Krishna Nagar had voted the BJP to power for the last 25 years.

In politics, the team that gets you elected is not on your payroll, nor do they have to listen to you. If you cannot make nice with party workers, then your political career will be short lived.

Removing Bedi From The National Spotlight It is no secret that Amit Shah and Narendra Modi's heavy-handed miscalculations in the Delhi elections

angered the Delhi BJP unit.

The BJP won all of 3 seats out of 70. Bedi's posting to Puducherry, a small coastal town that does not enjoy the national spotlight, seems to be in part to atone for their mistakes.

If Shah or Modi held Bedi in high regard, they would have appointed her to be the governor of a major, politically relevant state (e.g.

UP or Bihar), rather than banish her to an obscure Union Territory. Moreover, this posting makes it more likely that Bedi will no longer be a part of the media cycle.

sleepless nights constantly thinking about what makes you a different from among them.

This question has created thunderstorms in your head and you fail to arrive at one particular an-

does not happen in our cases but a movie like this shows how any change in our identity can bring unreal love and care for us from those who once disliked us. The best possible way for one is to avoid bitter remarks. Parents ought to be aware of ill treatment that affects the mindsets of their children. Opening themselves up and sharing the things with their parents would make them feel that they are not alone in this world. There are many cases where we see teenagers trying to harm themselves for they think their existence does not matters to anyone. It is also the duty of the teachers to be aware of and stop flourishing any such activity that makes life miserable for students. Mental breakdown is quite common to a few that takes place later in their age because of earlier traumas. Bullying or any kind of harassment is a threat that prevents blooming of a healthy atmosphere in

Anupom Kumar Hazarika swer. Or is it that you do not have flesh and blood? The fault lies in them, not in you. To get closer to them, you always try but every time you are kicked off like a football. The more you try, the less they show any concern for you. Sometimes, you sit in the corner of your room and curse yourself for your existence on earth. Can you make the clock run in reverse order?

This is something which is indeed impossible on your part.

The weak have a tortured life.

Showing autonomy over the weak is obvious everywhere.

Wherever you go, there would be enough instances that would be visible before your eyes. Some people have come across the name of Flashman, the most fa-

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: thecambridgecounsellor)

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 10

BUSINESS

Samsung unveils next in innovation with its washing machine technology ANI Hyderabad, Jun 9: Samsung India announced the next level of innovation with launch of India's first front Load AddWash washing machines, 5 new models in the crystal range - and the "K" Series with a revolutionary Magic Dispenser in the top load segment. The new top load range also incorporates Samsung's ActivWash+ technology for a more convenient washing experience. ActivWash+ is example of Samsung's Make for India initiative. This Product was conceived in India as a result of research done by R&D and Design Teams and was developed to make washing process of Indian consumers simpler.

ActivWash+ is now being sold in 33 countries across the Globe. Commenting on the launch, Rajeev Bhutani, Vice President, Consumer

Electronics, Samsung India Electronics, said, "We are extremely thrilled to unveil our stylish and innovative washing machine range for our consumers.

While the needs of our Indian consumers are evolving dynamically, our focus is to provide them with solutions that are stylish, time and energy saving to make their lives simple, easy and convenient." "Enhancing our product portfolio with our latest innovation and technology, the new AddWash and "K" Series Top Load washing machines have been designed and tailored according to the specific needs and demands of Indian consumers," he added. Designed for the ever evolving and smart Indian consumers and engineered to deliver convenience in cloth washing, Samsung's AddWash comes with an Add Door that allows the consumer

LeEco forays into retail stores with highly popular Le 1s smartphones ANI New Delhi, Jun 9: Global internet and ecosystem conglomerate LeEco announced its foray into the offline retail space in the country with its exceptionally popular Le 1s. The retail entry was marked by the presence of Actor Soha Ali Khan along with CEO APAC, Tin Mok and COO Smart Electronics Business LeEco India, Atul Jain. As part of its ambitious expansion plans in India, LeEco has kick started its offline journey with cities like New Delhi and Mumbai.

To strengthen its offline presence, in the second phase, LeEco plans to cover close to 70 percent retail stores across India that contribute to mobile sales, by the end of September 2016.

"We have fast-tracked our growth trajectory in India and our entry into the physical retail space affirms it. Since our India launch, we're thrilled to have seen an incredible response from users and this landmark announcement is a step ahead in making our Superphones more accessible to our users. In the near future, also plan to have our own wholly owned retail stores across the country," said COO Smart Electronics Business of LeEco India, Atul Jain. Le 1s will now also be accessible to users through retail stores located across prime locations in Delhi after receiving tremendous response for availability on Flipkart

since its launch. India has played a key role in replicating LeEco's global success story, with trend setting products and recordbreaking sales. With the launch of three superphones in India since its launch, the company has successfully sold an astounding number of 500,000 superphones in 100 days, making it a record of sorts for a new entrant in a fiercely competitive smartphone market in India. The company had earlier launched its ecosystem membership program in India besides providing users with rich and high quality content, this innovative membership program also integrates a comprehensive eco-services, like personal cloud services -LeEco Drive, LeMall and aftersales services. LeEco started its India operation in January this year with two superphones Le 1s and Le Max, disrupting the market with its breakthrough technology, world class features at a value for money price offering. The brand also recently launched its content ecosystem in India, introducing consumers to a whole new world of entertainment. The company's after-sales policies are also best-in-class with 555 service centers in prime locations in the country, besides providing 24 hour toll free services, and other value-added services.

TECHNOLOGY OF THE FUTURE Samsung India announced the next level of innovation with launch of India's first front Load AddWash washing machines, 5 new models in the crystal range - and the "K" Series with a revolutionary Magic Dispenser in the top load segment.

Designed for the ever evolving and smart Indian consumers and engineered to deliver convenience in cloth washing, Samsung's AddWash comes with an Add Door that allows the consumer to add laundry items anytime during the wash cycle.

The AddWash Range would be available in the 8 & 9Kg Capacity Segments. The revolutionary Magic Dispenser in the "K" Series Top Load Range lets one wash with less worry about residual detergent.

The new top load range also incorporates S a m s u n g ' s ActivWash+ technology for a more convenient washing experience.

Samsung AddWash also features the Super Speed cycle which completes a normal load in just 59 minutes.

Achieving brilliance in saving time and energy, AddWash also allows the ease of ventilating the washing tub even at the narrow laundry room without any hassles.

It is specially designed to create a powerful water vortex that dissolves both liquid and powder detergent and spreads it evenly before you start washing. Also, being the industry's first continuous pattern series, Samsung Lily Red (6.5 kg, 7.0 kg and 7.5 kg), Samsung Lily Blue (6.5 kg, 7.0 kg and 7.5 kg) washing machines, make a stylish lifestyle statement as well.

to add laundry items anytime during the wash cycle. It also lets the consumer add hand washed items only for rinsing, or additional softener anytime they want during the Wash Cycle. Samsung

AddWash also features the Super Speed cycle which completes a normal load in just 59 minutes. Achieving brilliance in saving time and energy, AddWash also allows the ease of ventilating the washing tub even

at the narrow laundry room without any hassles. The AddWash Range would be available in the 8 & 9Kg Capacity Segments. The revolutionary Magic Dispenser in the "K" Series Top Load Range

'Washington Apple Commission' associates with 'Diamond Toons' ANI New Delhi, Jun 9: Good news for all the apple lovers out there as this summer vacation, Washington Apples and Diamond Toons join forces to bring forward the benefits of eating apples along with a fun read for your children. We have all grown up reading Chacha Chaudhary who is known to outwit rivals with his intelligence. His brain is said to be faster than a computer, and he is accompanied by Sabu who is an alien from Jupiter with extraordinary strength. In the latest edition, Chacha Chaudhary and Sabu team up together to receive the famous Crispy from USA and teach children about how 'An apple a day can keep all the bad things away'.

The new comic story named Chacha Choudhary and Cripsy's Magic is based on a story idea to engage the readers with their beloved Chacha Choudhary and Sabu along

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: indiapages) with Crispy. It talks about Washington Apples with a fun element to boost the overall excitement. Commenting on the launch India Representative Washington Apple Commission, Keith Sunderlal said, "Washington Apples and Diamond Toons have endeavored to craft a unique infotainment comic wherein the readers will learn the benefits of Washington apples. Through the launch, we aim to educate our consumers about our one and only "Crispy" in a fun yet appealing way. We

are extremely positive that the series will be enjoyed by consumers across age groups. NK Verma, Chairman, Diamond Toons added, "We are very pleased that Washington Apples have partnered with us for the new series of cartoonist Pran, the Walt Disney of India, to communicate good health for kids and spell out the power and benefits of the super fruit. With our massive reach across India, we believe our readers, especially from this generation who are quick

learners with active minds will connect instantly with the comic and would very well communicate the benefits of Washington Apples amongst their peers. The new series would be available across print and digital medium that can be bought and read on click of a button." Washington Apples is a popular choice across the globe due to their wide varieties and distinctive taste and texture.

Grown in the fertile valleys and plateaus of America's far west which happens to produce the world's best apples, one can be sure that these apples are of premium quality. Come June, the comic will be available across all leading book stores in various languages like Hindi, Gujarati, Marathi, Bengali and English. For children who love the magic fruit, or others who just want to take a quick trip back to their childhood, this edition is a must buy.

Investment in India to be increased to $5 billion by Amazon Washington, Jun 9: Amazon will invest an additional $3 billion in its India operations to take its investment in the country to over $5 billion, said the American e-commerce giant's founder and CEO Jeff Bezos. Bezos said this at an event here which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "Amazon will invest $3 billion more in India. This is in addition to the $2 billion announced in 2014," Bezos said at the annual gala of U.S. India Business Council (USIBC).

"We have already created some 45,000 jobs in India and continue to see huge potential in the Indian economy," Bezos said. "Our Amazon.in team is surpassing even our most ambitious planned milestones...," Bezos said after receiving USIBC's Global Leadership Awards. Star India, a subsidiary of 21st Century Fox, also said it will invest an additional $5 billion over the next three years.

"We see huge potential in the Indian market and have been one of the largest for-

eign investors in India and the largest in the media and entertainment sector," said Uday Shankar, Chairman and CEO of Star India. USIBC chairman John Chambers announced that in less than two years, about 20 per cent of USIBC member companies have already invested $28 billion India. "Over the next 2-3 years, we see this pace accelerating, again with about 20 per cent of our member companies reporting, indicating that USIBC members are on track to invest

Smartphone sales will continue to slowdown: Gartner Taiwan, Jun 9: Gartner, Inc. said global smartphone sales will continue to slow and will no longer grow in double digits. It also said India would be one of the bright spots.

Worldwide smartphone sales are expected to grow 7 percent in 2016 to reach 1.5 billion units. This is down from 14.4 percent growth in 2015. In 2020, smartphone sales are on pace to total 1.9 billion units. The smartphone market has reached 90 percent penetration in the mature markets of North America, Western Europe, Japan and mature Asia/ Pacific, slowing future growth, the firm said. Furthermore, users in these regions are not replacing

lets one wash with less worry about residual detergent. It is specially designed to create a powerful water vortex that dissolves both liquid and powder detergent and spreads it evenly before you start washing. So it prevents the detergent from becoming lumpy and reduces the risk of any residue being left on your clothes and washing machine. The new Range also incorporates Samsung's revolutionary ActivWash+ technology which has a built-in sink inside the washing machine where the consumers can pre-treat and wash laundry all at one place and is available in capacities from 6.2Kg to 11Kg. Also, being the industry's first continuous pattern series, Samsung Lily Red (6.5 kg, 7.0 kg and 7.5 kg), Samsung Lily Blue (6.5 kg, 7.0 kg and 7.5 kg) washing machines, make a stylish lifestyle statement as well.

AND THE SAGA CONTINUES Global smartphone sales will continue to slow and will no longer grow in double digits. It also said India would be one of the bright spots.

Worldwide smartphone sales are expected to grow 7 percent in 2016 to reach 1.5 billion units. This is down from 14.4 percent growth in 2015. In 2020, smartphone sales are on pace to total 1.9 billion units.

The smartphone market has reached 90 percent penetration in the mature markets of North America, Western Europe, Japan and mature Asia/Pacific, slowing future growth.

Furthermore, users in these regions are not replacing or upgrading their smartphone as often as in previous years.

Smartphones are expensive for users in India, but with the average selling prices (ASPs) of low-end models falling, Gartner estimates that 139 million smartphones will be sold in India in 2016, growing 29.5 percent year over year.

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: sfs.jondon)

or upgrading their smartphone as often as in previous years, it added.

Smartphones are expensive for users in India, but with the average selling prices (ASPs) of low-end models falling, Gartner estimates that 139 million smartphones will be sold in India in 2016,

growing 29.5 percent year over year. ASPs of mobile phones in India remain under $70, and smartphones under $120 will continue to contribute around 50 percent of overall smartphone sales in 2016, it said. (Agencies)

an additional $45 billion, which is a conservative estimate," he said. "Given Prime Minister Modi's track record towards implementing 'Digital India' and key economic reforms, we are optimistic that this number will be dramatically exceeded, perhaps even doubled," Chambers added. "Today we are witnessing a new phase in India's growth story driven by the vision of Prime Minister Modi," he said.

(Agencies)

PAGE 10

India goes Green with Ola Share' mobility solutions

CMO at Ola, Raghuvesh Sarup. (Photo: afaqs) ANI New Delhi, Jun 9: Taxiaggregator Ola shared details on how its shared mobility solutions are making a significant contribution towards reducing vehicular pollution and addressing traffic congestion in cities across India. Accorded to the company statistics, Ola Share helped keep 9,10,086 vehicles off the road in Delhi, since its launch in January 2016. Apart from lowering the number of cars hitting the road, Ola Share also helped bring down CO2 emission levels by 12,90,636 kilograms as well as saving 5,37,768 litres of fuel because of users opting for shared rides on the Ola platform across the city. "Shared Mobility is the future of transportation in India and Ola Share has enables citizens to share their rides and pay only a fraction of the actual trip cost while contributing towards reduction in vehicular pollution and congestion in their city," said Head of Categories and CMO at Ola, Raghuvesh Sarup. He also

mentioned of how Ola Share has emerged as a friendly ride sharing solution in India in addition to being the most ecofriendly and most pocketfriendly. "At Ola, our mission is to build mobility for a billion people, and I am excited that growing adoption of shared mobility solutions like Ola Share by eco-friendly citizens of India will form a large part of this while caring for the environment. Ola Share has helped save several million car rides and more than five lakh litre of fuel. Importantly, Ola Share has prevented emission of over 48 lakh kilograms of CO2 pan India, that's as much as the weight of 1200 Indian elephants," added Raghuvesh.

Growing popularity of Ola Share has made it one of most preferred choice of the commuters and the offering is running successfully in 7 cities in India. Economic growth, rapid urbanization and environmental concerns are driving the need for innovative mobility solutions across the country.

Fujifilm Diosynth announces collaboration on microbial biologics facility ANI London, Jun 9: FUJIFILM Diosynth Biotechnologies, a leading global biologics Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) has announced establishment of a long-term collaboration with Merck, a global biopharmaceutical company known as MSD outside the US and Canada, to invest in and operate a large-scale microbialbiologics facility for supply of active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) to its customers. This collaboration involves a USD 60million investment by MSD at its Brinny manufacturing plant in Innishannon, County Cork, Ireland. MSD in Brinny has been in operation for more than 30 years and is an integrated site for the development, testing and manufacturing of biologics. It is intended that the large-scale biologics operations at MSD in Brinny will be operational in early 2018 for biotech and pharma customers of Fujifilm Diosynth. The collaboration addresses a market need for largescale microbial biologics manufacturing, complements Fujifilm Diosynth's existing microbial capacity that ranges from 100L up to 5000L both in the USA and UK; and enables Fujifilm Diosynth's customers to benefit from MSD's strong track record with large-scale microbial operations. Fujifilm Diosynth will lead customer interactions, program

management and process and analytical development, and the MSD facility in Brinny will operate as cGMP manufacturing support for Fujifilm Diosynth's CDMO business, enabling seamless technology transfer and technical support. Microbial fermentation remains vital technology for the process of manufacturing biologics, and this investment, drawing on the latest production advances, will enable Fujifilm Diosynth's existing and future customers to have a clear and secure line of sight to higher product volumes along with lower cost-of-goods. The latter is particularly important as products enter late clinical phase and commercialization. CEO of Fujifilm Diosynth, Steve Bagshaw said, "We are delighted to progress this collaboration which illustrates how innovative approaches bridging pharma and CDMO can build value for suppliers and ultimately patients."

Sanat Chattopadhyay, Executive Vice President of Merck and President of the Merck Manufacturing Division, said: "Merck is excited to collaborate with Fujifilm Diosynth through expanded capabilities in bulk microbial fermentation and downstream support services. This will allow Merck to use and further develop the skills and competencies of the people at the MSD site in Brinny and build on the site's long tradition of manufacturing excellence."

2016 global growth forecast cut to 2.4% by World Bank Washington, Jun 9: The World Bank has lowered its forecast for the global growth in 2016 to 2.4 per cent, saying that the world economy is facing stronger headwinds. In its Global Economic Prospects Report released, the Washington-based institution expected the world economy to grow 2.4 per cent in 2016, 0.5 percentage point lower than the bank's forecast in January, a news agency reported. "Although the global financial crisis is now seven years behind us, the world economy is still struggling to regain momentum," said Kaushik Basu, chief economist at the World Bank. Growth continues to falter in advanced economies, while there is considerable divergence of performance across emerging market and developing economies, and their overall growth remains

Kaushik Basu, chief economist at the World Bank.

(Photo: staticflickr) below potential, said Mr. Basu. According to the report, developing economies are forecast to expand by 3.5 per cent in 2016, 0.6 percentage point

lower than its January's projection; advanced economies are expected to grow 1.7 per cent this year, 0.5 lower than its January's forecast. (Agencies)

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 10

Features

Andro - preserving heritage and customs of Manipur Located in the Imphal part in upholding the East district in Manipur heritage of the Manipuri is Andro, a small ham- people. It is evident in let that the way stands on Precious Kamei they have its own, mainthanks to the locals who tained the cultural comare keen to preserve and plex-with proper muuphold the otherwise di- seum timings and reminishing age-old tradi- stricted number of visitions and customs of the tors. Here in the land. Andro is 28 complex's Doll Mukilometres south-east of seum, one can see the

A moment from Andro (Photo: Precious Kamei)

Imphal; the road is not all smooth but the journey is compensated by the fantastic view of rolling ranges of hills and grassland.

Andro stands out where Manipur tourism is concerned mainly for three reasons: " Mutua Museum Imphal (popularly known as The Doll Museum) " Traditional pottery " Brewing of the local wine (rice beer) Mutua Museum Imphal has traditional huts, tribal dolls, totem poles and traditional gears that showcase the myriad aspects of the tribes of Manipur. The village plays a very important

different types of dolls that represent different Manipuri tribes.

Pottery, perhaps the star of Andro, is unique on its own for the fact that only married ladies are allowed to make them.

The clay goods ranges from tiny incense stick holders to piggy banks to pots and vases. Spend the day at the village and one can even witness the village ladies engaging in pottery making.

While visiting Andro, do try their local rice beer. The brewers may not allow audience in their brewery but one can procure some to sample the goods.

Courtesy: Nezine

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TRAVEL & TOURISM Get the best of Thimphu and Paro when you visit the happiest country in Asia over the long weekend Bhutan, nestled in the eastern Himalaya, is slowly becoming one of the hottest tourist destinations in the world. It's stupa). It's a great spot for ideal for Indian tourists, as a picnic with a grand view there's no need for a visa. of the beautiful Himalaya.

If you have about five Next place to visit is the days, Paro and Thimphu Memorial Chorten, its are the best options. golden spires and bells of Bhutan can be reached which make it one of Bhutan's both by air, faas well as Precious Kamei most mous landby road.

Since it's a long weekend, marks. A few kilometers some of you might want away is famous monasto try the road, which is t e r y - c u m - f o r t r e s s quite spectacular. Fly to Tashichho Dzong, origiBagdogra in West Bengal nally constructed in the and do the very scenic 13th century. Today it drive via Siliguri, Jaigaon houses the throne room of and Phuentsoling to either the king of Bhutan as well Paro or Thimphu. A direct as the administrative oftaxi to Thimphu or Paro fices of the government. costs approximately Rs On your second day of 7,000-8,000 and takes stay in Thimphu, you can about 13 hours. If that's take a break from visiting too much, then there are the dzongs (forts) and regular flights to Paro monasteries and explore from Delhi, Kolkata, the city's other attractions Guwahati and Mumbai. like the weekend market, Here's how you can do where you can shop for Bhutan (Thimphu and local handicrafts and Paro) in five days and other souvenirs. Another interesting place to visit is back. the Changlimithang ArTHIMPHU chery Ground. If you go What To See & Do If you are flying in di- early in the morning, you rectly to Paro, Thimphu is might even see archers about a 90-minute drive practicing! You can end away. Thimphu is the your Thimphu visit by capital as well as the larg- visiting Buddha Point, est city and cultural hub. from where you can get a Start with the oldest mo- lovely view of the nastic temple complex, Thimphu valley under the the Changangkha shadow of the 51-footLhakhang. According to high statue of the Buddha Bhutanese tradition, par- Dordenma, the largest in ents come here to get aus- the country. picious names and bless- Where to Stay ings for their newborns. Centrally located hotels From here, proceed to like Hotel Norbuling Dochu La-a picturesque (www.hotelnorbuling.com/ pass dotted with prayer bhutan-hotel; from Rs Hotel flags and a chorten (a 4,900),Druk

International Getaways: Bhutan in 5 Days T h i m p h u (www.drukhotels.com/ hoteldruk; from Rs 6,300), Taj Tashi Bhutan, Le Meridien Thimphu, Terma Linca Resort & Spa and Namgay Heritage Hotel, but the best options if you want to pamper yourself and enjoy the calm and quiet of Thimphu at the same time.

Where To Eat Try the centrally located Musk Restaurant for a chance to interact with the locals. If you can't leave your Indian taste-buds behind, then try Chula.

For the best of local cuisine, try Bhutan Kitchen.

PARO What To See & Do Just an hour and a half away from Thimphu is Paro, a lovely city full of traditional architecture that's best explored on foot. To begin with, visit the Drametse Lhakhang, a 16th century monastery of the Nyingma sect, set upon a narrow and steep, forested ridge. Home to some 80 monks, it's famous for the Mask Dance of the Drums that takes place twice every year.

Paro Dzong, also known as Rimpung Dzong, is another fine example of Bhutanese architecture.

Open daily from 9am to 5pm, the Dzong offers a stunning view of the Paro valley. You'll have to cross a unique covered bridge to enter the fort.Kyichu Lhakhang, a short drive away, dates back to the

Taktsang Monastery also known as Tiger's nest (Photo: tigersnestbhutan) 7th century CE, when the Tibetan Emperor Songtsen Gampo was said to have established it. It is one of the most sacred shrines in Bhutan, and you shouldn't miss the 7th century statue of the Sakyamuni Buddha, said to have been cast in Lhasa.

The iconic Taktsang Monastery or the Tiger's Nest is best kept for towards the end of the trip, as it's only fair to give your undivided attention to the most popular symbol of Bhutan. Within the country, it is probably the most sacred pilgrimage site, associated with the memory of Guru Padmasambhava, who's

said to have sanctified this cliff-top site in the 8th century CE. The hike up to the Tiger's Nest takes around 3 hours, but worry not, there is a cafeteria on the way as well as an excellent spot from where you can get a great view of the monastery. There are timings for the monastery-October-March: 8am-1pm and 2pm to 5pm; April-September: 8am-1pm and 2pm-6pm.

If you plan to do the trek, then start early because the cafeteria is open only from noon to 3pm.

Where To Stay There are quite a few affordable and comfortable options in town, in-

cluding Tiger's Nest Resort(www.tigernest.bt; from Rs 3,450), Sonam Trophel Hotel (contact: +975 8 271 287) and Gangtey Palace Hotel.

Since Paro is just an hour and a half away from Thimphu, you can easily stay at either Paro or Thimphu and explore these two valleys.

Where To Eat Try the Taktsang Cafetaria while you're hiking up to the Tiger's Nest. For some great culinary experiences, try the Charro Restaurant, or the high-end Bukhari Restaurant.

C o u t e s y : outlooktraveller

The Khasi Visual Art Tradition

The tradition of visual art (Photo: nezine) The hallmark that emerges from the knowledge to create is the original entity of the creator which is different from another person with the same or similar aptitudeknown as Art. The Raphael hallmark or distinctive brand of a particular individual is called 'matti', 'mat' is the short syllable for 'khmat' meaning front and 'ti' is the short syllable for 'kti' meaning hand in Khasi. Knowledge or to know means 'tip' and create means 'thaw' in Khasi language; hence 'mattithaw' or 'mattipthaw' means an object created with knowledge and executed by hand that stimulate in front of the people is an experience, which denotes art in Khasi. It could be the literary writing skill, music and dance performing skill, painting and sculpturing skill or any such creative talent. Therefore, Art is the unique and exclusive style, character or identity of the work created by the writer,

poet, artist and every innovative person. Art signifies the emotional and material product created by the artist. The whole world with all its components is the intangible or Warjri s p i r i t u a l and tangible or material products of the Creator, God Almighty in Khasi terminology.

Khasi belief prohibited the act of creating images and such action by a person is termed as taboo, because it is considered the sole prerogative of God, the Creator.

Therefore, the image of ancestors, divine entities or anything that is revered in society or mankind is forbidden to make with artificial means. Any image making matter is perceived as a dummy of the original image; like the scarecrow to chase away birds and animals from the agricultural fields, and the mask which is used in fanfare for fun and amusement. This is the basic reason that during the

funeral ceremony all the structures of certain forms are destroyed before the final rituals of cremation: even the hearse that is used to carry the corpse to the crematicial means. Any image making matter is perceived as a dummy of the original image; like the scarecrow to chase away birds and animals from the agricultural fields, and the mask which is used in fanfare for fun and amusement.

This is the basic reason that during the funeral ceremony all the structures of certain forms are destroyed before the final rituals of cremation: even the hearse that is used to carry the corpse to the cremation pyre has to be destroyed before the body is incinerated. During the Behdeiñkhlam ceremony of the Pnar people in the Pnar or Jaintia region, all the colourful towering structures are dismantled and dumped into a ditch. Perhaps this customs is akin to other Asian cultures. On the one hand it

is similar to the the Durga Puja festival of the Hindu custom where idols are immersed in the river and dissolved thereafter; and on the other hand during the Muharram of Islam, the tazias are immersed in the river after the religious procession. The only difference is that Hindus revere and worship the idols, while the Muslims do not hold any significance to the structures; and the Khasis do not give any regard to the structures, and it is forbidden to worship these structures.

The monolith, ossuary and all other stone structures of the Khasis does not have any carving image on them. In weaving also, there are no images apart from simple pattern designs on the hem.

Even bamboo crafts are without any design because the plaits are stressing more on the functional convenience of the article. Therefore, aesthetics among the Khasis are functional and utilitarian in nature. For that matter, there are no traces of visible folk art inherited from the ancestors. Khasis consider that life in the world is temporary and believed that God has provided with complete beauty in the surrounding environment, which might not be necessary for man to engage in the imitation process. Khasi philosophy revealed that the permanent abode is the home of God and that is why the mortal body may decompose but the soul will stay at the threshold to the abode of God, literally referring in Khasi as bam kwai ha dwar

U Blei or eaten betel nut at the doorstep to the abode of God. Why eating betel nut?

- Khasi custom consider sharing betel nut as the symbol of great honour to greet and welcome the guests, to celebrate a conversation of goodwill around the hearth.

According to the Khasi myth, Biskorom is revered as the chief deity for creativity and through his divine disciples known as the twelve masons or 'khatar kamar' and nine masons or 'khyndai kamar' engaged in the making and manufacturing of material structures for human utility. The entire process of the work is believed to have taken place at a place called Rangjyrteh and from there on, it is handed over to the people to sustain the tradition. Rangjyrteh is an ancient settlement with traces of an established iron industry. There are remnants of specific foundry demarcated from one another, with each foundry consisting of all the components for iron smelting like the kiln and the manger with fossilised iron ore spreading all around the area. Therefore, Rangjyrteh located near Sohra (Cherrapunjee) is the ancient professional and occupational establishment of artists, architects, engineers, artisans including each and every skilled craftsperson.

Perhaps, the chief deity for creativity Biskorom is the same Hindu God Viswakarma. Essentially, the Khasi folk technology for iron, bamboo and wooden tools and structures originated from Rangjyrteh.

In the present context, the contemporary art expression is emerging and prevailing to reveal Khasi thoughts. One artistic expression is the fixing of animal antlers at the top portion of the front door, the main entrance to the hut or the house. The popular trend is the deer antlers that related with the customary community hunting expedition. The traditional hunting expedition is being considered after chanting prayers to God seeking divine sanction.

Khasi custom forbid creation of images and considered a taboo, therefore the artistic urge is indicated through the expression at the façade and the top portion of the front entrance to the house. The other portion of the house is meant for convenience of utility and function for the inhabitants. The roof and the walls are meant to protect from wind and rain, the windows are meant to attract light and allow circulation of air, the staircase and the door to be able to access the house, and so on and so forth. However, the façade is a frame that is not required for any function for the inhabitants and this space is a prominent display area for the original artistic creativity of the owner or the builder. In the similar manner, the top frontal entrance is the ideal space for the exhibition of the symbol of victory and good fortune for the family.

The tradition of hanging the antler at the upper threshold of the ethnic hut is being followed with the same purpose at the modern house. The transition is accepted and

evolved a new tradition, even in the sophisticated cemented buildings. Some artists portray elements of Khasi identity in their artworks in such spaces. After the introduction of the architecture known as Assam-type, the façade of the house became the display area for the builder or the house owner to create images of their personal choice. Eminent local architect, Aiban Shngaiñ Mawkhroh stated that the creative pursuit of the house owner or the builder is depicted prominently at the façade of every house in Khasi region. Further, he confirmed that the similar trend and pattern is repeating in the present days cement concrete buildings.

Dr Desmond L Kharmawphlang, an eminent poet, folklorist, cultural scholar and Professor in the Department of Creative & Cultural Studies, North Eastern Hill University, Shillong, expressed that image creation is found on weaving, rituals and some other daily chores and occasionally during festival and ceremony. However, all these images are not visible to the masses and could not penetrate into the society. As it appear in the present juncture, especially when compared with neighbouring ethnic races or even the whole world; there is a conjecture that the visual art tradition is either lost or it has never been in existence in the Khasi society Khasi thought considered talent as God gifted attribute, while the trick or craftsmanship is human skill and ability. Talent is pure, clean, sacred and divine; while trick

and craftsmanship is a wise and calculative action, it is human and temporal. Art deriving out of gifted original talent can be distinguish from the art deriving out of innovative trick and craftsmanship. Talent is absolute intellectual element, while trick and craftsmanship involves elements of intellectual and application capability. Both are creative impulses motivated by the skill and ability to use the personal aptitude. These two terms creative talent and creative trick or craftsmanship are comparable with each other as being genuine against imitative, original against imaginative, productive against sterile, beneficial against futility, static against dynamic. However both attributes can grow and attain certain amount of quality and perfection through consistent usage and regular practice. Literature, Visual Arts and Performing Arts are the primary components of creative expression commonly called art, although it is more often referred to pictorial term.

However the term art has been ascribed to various other skillful actions, which are more of application rather than intellectual ability. It is interesting to observe that new modes of such creative arts and various visual art forms are evolving now since last two three decades of the eighties and nineties thereby ushering in a new departure in the visual cultural tradition of the Khasi.

Courtesy: nezine

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DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 10

PAGE 12

BCCI announces six new Test venues for 2016-17 season Mumbai, June 9 (ANI): The Board of Control for Cricket in India on Thursday announced that Rajkot, Visakhapatnam, Pune, Dharamsala, Ranchi and Indore will host Test matches for the first time in the 2016-17 season in which India will play 13 Tests, eight ODIs and three T20I. The tour programme and fixtures committee of the BCCI met here earlier today to finalise the schedules for International and domestic cricket season of 2016-17.

"I welcome the new Test venues hosting this prestigious format of cricket and their arrival will take Test match cricket, to every corner of the country," said

Zimbabwe tour a chance to cement spot in India's playing XI: Manish Pandey Mumbai, June 9 (ANI): Indian batsman Manish Pandey is hoping to perform at his absolute best in the forthcoming limited-overs series against Zimbabwe in order to become a regular face in the playing XI. India will play the first game of the three-match ODI series against Zimbabwe at the Harare Sports Club, a place where the 26-year-old made his promising debut last year.

Batting at No. 5 in the third ODI match in July last year, Manish struck a 71-run knock and shared a huge 144-run partnership with centurion Kedar Jadhav to complete a 30 series whitewash against Zimbabwe.

Talking about his return to Harare, Pandey admitted that it would be a fresh start for him, adding that he was fully geared up to go on to the field and contribute with ball.

"My goal is to keep performing and make sure that I fit into that Indian XI and become a permanent member of the squad. My goal for the next couple of years is to be a part of the Indian team and to win games for India. I am working hard towards that and I want to achieve that," Pandey was quoted as saying by BCCI. Despite appearing in only four ODIs so far, Manish has given a great indication of his rich talent and the ability to bat under pressure at various occasions, including scoring an unbeaten 104-run knock while chasing a daunting 332-run target with two balls to spare.

Reflecting on the same, Pandey said, "It was a crucial innings (against Zimbabwe) for me and the team. I got the opportunity and I did justice to that.

It was a good start and the right booster for me. Some time has passed since that game in Australia (January), but the memories and images of that game will stay with me. It is always good to have some confidence behind you."

The Indian squad touring Zimbabwe are mostly youngsters, including five uncapped player, and is led by Mahendra Singh Dhoni.

BCCI President Anurag Thakur.

"We are equally excited about the domestic season as we will be playing the Duleep trophy with the pink ball under lights and take this opportunity to welcome Chhattisgarh, who will play Ranji trophy for the first time. A combined team of Affiliate & Associate states will participate in the junior age group tournaments, which will provide the much needed opportunity to the emerging players from these areas. This further reaffirms our commitment to spread the game by providing the appropriate platforms to our next generation cricketer," he said.

Board of Control for Cricket in India The home season will start with three Tests and five ODIs against New Zealand followed by five Tests, three ODIs and three T20Is against England. Australia

will visit India in FebruaryMarch 2017 to play four Test matches and Bangladesh is slated to play a one off Test match in India.

The three-match Test series against New Zealand will be played at Indore, Kanpur and Kolkata, while Dharamsala, Delhi, Mohali, Ranchi and Vizag will host the five ODIs against the Kiwis.

The five-Test series against England will be played at Mohali, Rajkot, Mumbai, Vizag and Chennai, while the three-match ODI series will be played in Pune, Cuttack and Kolkata.

Bengaluru, Nagpur and Kanpur will hold the three T20Is against England.

Australia will tour India in February to play four Test matches hosted by Bengaluru, Dharamsala, Ranchi and Pune, while the stand alone Test match

against Bangladesh will be played at Hyderabad.

All these venues will get matches subject to the condition that they have numbered the seats in the stadiums and fulfill all the guidelines laid down by the BCCI. Meanwhile, India Cricket's domestic season will kick off in the month of September where in for the first time ever, Duleep Trophy will be played under lights and with a Pink Ball. During the entire season, 918 matches will be organized that includes Ranji trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Deodhar Trophy, Irani Trophy, Women's cricket and all other age group cricket.

(ANI)

Neymar to make acting debut Nike to continue with Deepika Padukone in 'xXx' sponsoring Sharapova despite two-year doping ban Karachi, June 9 (ANI): Brazilian footballer Neymar has taken a huge leap from green pitch to the silver screen holding Deepika Padukone andVin Diesel's hands.

The FC Barcelona striker is kicking off his acting career with the Hollywood movie 'xXx: The Return Of

Xander Cage,' reports the Express Tribune.

The 'Fast and Furious' actor took to Instagram recently to reveal that the 24year-old footballer has already begun shooting and he is a "natural" one.

Reportedly, Neymar was in the United States last week to face the camera for a

cameo appearance.

The 'Bajirao Mastani' actress' Hollywood debut is expected to be released in January 2017. ' xXx: The Return Of Xander Cage' will also see stars like Nina Dobrev, Ruby Rose and Samuel L Jackson. (ANI)

Tengakhat Anchalik defeat Gorgaon FCC

Action moment from the match. Pic - Ashok Kalita Sports Reporter The second goal was Dibrugarh, June 9: scored by Dipankar Saikia Tengakhat Anchalik in the 40th minute. In the Sonowal Kachari Students' second half, Rahul Saikia Union Football Club de- of Gorgaon FCC again feated Gorgaon Football equalized the score in Coaching Centre by 4-3 via 55th minute. Tengakhat tie-breaker in the 12th C.K. Anchalik player Dipankar Sarma Saikia Day & C.K. Sarma Football scored Night his secFootball tournament ond goal in the 65th organised by Dibrugarh minute while Rahul Saikia District Sports Association makes it 3-3 in the 78th at Chowkidinghee play- minute. ground here today. The For Tengakhat Anchalik, regulation time was ended Jyotish Taye, Ridip in 3-3 draw.

Handique, Shankar Bag Gorgaon FCC opened their and Indrajit Sonowal made account through striker it to the net while Pranjal Pranjal Bhumij in the 15th Bhumij, Rahul Saikia and minute while Indrajit Tinku Baglari scored goals Sonowal of Tengakhat for Gorgaon FCC. Anchalik equalized the goal Tomorrow, Namrup Town in the 39th minute. He re- Club will take on Tinsukia ceived a pass from Ridip Railway Divisional Sports Saikia and netted the goal. Club.

Indian hockey team eyes Champions Trophy Maria Sharapova Melbourne, June.9 : Maria Sharapova has received an unexpected boost when sportswear giant Nike declared that it 'will continue to partner' with the beleaguered Russian tennis star despite her two-year suspension for failing a drug test at this year's Australian Open.

"The ITF tribunal has found that Maria did not intentionally break its rules," news.com.au quoted Nike as saying. "Maria has always made her position clear, has apologised for her mistake and is now appealing the length of the ban "Based on the decision of the ITF and their factual findings, we hope to see Maria back on court and will continue to partner with her," the sports firm added.

On Wednesday, the 29-yearold was punished by a threemember Tennis Anti-Doping Program tribunal appointed by the International Tennis Federation, which

concluded she took meldonium 'for the purpose of enhancing her performance.'

Earrlier, Nike had decided to sever its ties with the fivetime Grand Slam champion pending the outcome of the investigation after Sharapova revealed that she had tested positive for the banned substance meldonium in January 26.

Meldonium was placed on the banned list by the World Anti-Doping Agency this year but the 2012 Olympic silver medallist said that she had been taking the drug since 2006 legally for years for health reasons.

Sharapova, who was overtaken by Serena Williams as the world's highest earning sportswoman this week, had seen a slew of sponsors such as American Express, Porsche and TAG Heuer distancing themselves following her revelations.

(ANI)

London, Jun 9 (PTI) Aiming to gain in confidence before the Olympic Games, the Indian hockey team will be eyeing a podium finish in the Champions Trophy, beginning with a clash against Olympic gold-medallists Germany here tomorrow.

Launching their campaign at the Lee Valley Hockey Centre, India are seeking to add to their only Champions Trophy medal -- a bronze -- they won at Amsterdam in 1982.

On seven occasions thereafter, India have been edged away from the podium as they lost crucial bronze-medal encounters.

The last two Champions Trophy events in 2012 (Melbourne)and 2014 (Bhubaneswar) feature among the seven fourthplace finishes that left the Indian fans dejected.

"A podium finish is a realistic target we're chasing here at this Champions Trophy," said coach Roelant Oltmans as the

Indian hockey team

Indian team went through its training regimen ahead of the German encounter.

"A medal here will be a big confidence-booster ahead of the Olympic Games," said Oltmans.

"Rio de Janeiro is our main focus this summer and good results on the way will surely lift the team's morale."

Returning to the Olympic Park in London also provides India a chance to erase the unhappy memories of the last-place finish in the 2012 Olympics.

Before that Indian hockey used to romance the 1948 Olympic gold medal they had won in London.

"We like a challenge, but we have to execute our

tactics in match situations and keep evolving," said Oltmans, who has continued his rotational policy to provide exposure to all players ahead of picking the squad for Rio de Janeiro.

Starting with the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, where India got the silver behind world champions Australia, Oltmans is eager to

test his junior players in stiff contests. To do so, he has had to create space by shuffling the senior players in the squad.

Custodian PR Sreejesh, who will captain the squad at the Champions Trophy, and penalty corner shooter VR Raghunath are back in the squad after missing the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup, while Sardar Singh and Rupinder Pal Singh have been rested.

Young penalty corner shooter Harmanpreet Singh's fine show in the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup secured his selection for the Champions Trophy, where he will share the duties with Raghunath.

For goalkeeper Vikas Dahiya and his junior colleague Pradeep Mor this is the biggest stage of their short playing career.

It is a huge step up for Dahiya, who recently played under the bar at the South Asian Games in Guwahati, while Mor will get a dream opportunity to showcase his skills.

Coutinho treble seals Brazil's 7- AFC Cup quarters: Bengaluru FC vs Tampines Rovers 1 rout of Haiti in Copa America Johannesburg, June.9 (ANI): Phillipe Coutinho grabbed the spotlight by scoring a hat-trick as Brazil thrashed Haiti 7-1 in their second game of the Copa America Centenario in Florida last evening.

The Liverpool attacking midfielder produced a rich vein of form as he netted his first two goals inside the first half hour and added another goal just before the final whistle, Sport 24 reported.

While Renato Augusto

struck twice, teenage star Gabriel Barbosa and Lucas Lima were the other scorers for Dunga's side.

Brazil opened their campaign with a disappointing goalless draw against Ecuador on Saturday but after their recent win they are leading Group B on goal difference.

Elsewhere, Ecuador thwarted Peru's push for a quarterfinal berth after playing out a 2-2 draw in other group stage match.

(ANI)

New Delhi, June 9 (PTI) ILeague champions Bengaluru FC will play against Tampines Rovers of Singapore in the two-leg quarterfinals of the AFC Cup football tournament in September.

The draw to decide the quarterfinal fixtures was held in Kuala Lumpur today.

Bengaluru will host the first leg of the quarter-finals at the Kanteerava Stadium on September 14 and travel to Singapore for the return leg on September 21.

Tampines Rovers had knocked Kolkata giants Mohun Bagan out of the tournament in the Round of 16

last month. Bengaluru FC have exited from the tournament at the Round of 16 stage at the previous edition last year.

The Stags have taken part in the tournament seven times in the past and have featured in the last eight stage on three occasions from 2005 to 2007.

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