June 15, 2016, wednesday

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ASSENG/2015/64205

Vol. 1

Issue 367

Dibrugarh, Wednesday, June 15, 2016

INDIA SUFFER 1-2 DEFEAT AGAINST BELGIUM IN HOCKEY CHAMPIONS TROPHY

FIVE ARRESTED KSA ACTIVISTS RELEASED

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ET CAPSULES DMA programme at Doomdooma College Doomdooma, June 14 : A three-day Disaster Management Awareness (DMA) Programme was held at Doomdooma College recently. The programme was organized by the NSS unit of the college and inaugurated by Chabin Barman, the vice principal of the college by lighting the ceremonial lamp. Sujit Gogoi, NSS officer of Dibrugarh University spoke about the growth of NSS. (Corespondent)

Monkey causes child's death Golaghat, June 14: In a tragic incident a child has to loss his life due to the sudden attack of a monkey . According to the report a seven year old boy along with his father went for bath in a pond at Doigrung Meripathar in Golaghat yesterday in the evening . Suddenly a monkey appeared and tried to attack them . When the father of the boy was busy trying to save himself and his son from the attack of the monkey the child feared drowned . Today the dead body was recovered by the police. (Correspondent)

A Staff Reporter Guwahati, June 14

It seems yesterday it was only a trailer, when DFO Mohot Talukdar was arrested and almost one crore worth of cash and assets were recovered by officials of the anticorruption department.

Today it looked like the full movie, after further raids were carried out at Talukdar ’s residence at Guwahati, located at Pinaki path near the Guwahati zoo. Yesterday, the amount recovered at his Dhemaji residence was over 70 lakhs.

Today till the time of filing this news report, police officials had received cash of over two crore rupees, gold jewellery weighing over 1.5 kg, property documents and several fixed deposits. Besides this fixed deposits of several lakh rupees have been recovered from his Guwahati residence, and over 10 LIC policies. After examining the property documents, police officials said that Talukdar owes land property at seven different locations at Guwahati, and also two houses at Nalbari.

“There are three lockers where were sealed behind a wall, and we managed to reach the cash after breaking through the wall and opening the lockers,” said a police official who was part of the raid.

Interestingly, police have also recovered a tiger skin, tiger nail, deer skin, and also ivory parts at Taludar’s Guwahati residence. To count the huge amount of money, police officials even had to get money counting machine from banks to collect the cash.

A visibly depressed Taludar was seen shouting before the media and the police who have gathered outside his house, that it is a conspiracy against him.

Speaking to the media, Mukul Saikia, SP (Vigilance and AntiCorruption) confirmed that apart from the huge amount of money and gold, tiger skin, deer skin and elephant tusk have been recovered. Talukdar was to retire in six-seven months. Speaking to Eastern Today, Assam environment and forest minister Pramila Rani Brahma said she has sought a detailed report on the issue, and will take strict action.

Brahma also said that there will be zero tolerance towards corruption and wildlife crimes.

Under OIL Super 30, 74 students have cracked the IIT entrance examination this year. OIL Super 30, which is one of the most impactful CSR projects of Oil India Limited (OIL) under Education, witnessed 74 out of 150 students in the batch qualify the most prestigious IIT-Advance entrance examination in the country.

The project has once again attained great success in its overall objective of transforming the lives of underprivileged students,

PAGE 11

INDIA PLANS TO BE POWER EXCESS IN 2016-17 Page - 10

ET Correspondent Lakhimpur, June 14

The arrest episode of Mahat Chandra Talukder, the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Dhemaji District yesterday, once again, proved that the green heritage of Assam has been collapsed by the corrupted officers of the State Forest Department. The incident of seizing more than crore rupees at his resident haze indicated that they are involved with making money through illegal means having privileged by their job instead of saving the flora and fauna of the State.

SBI officials count the money which being recovered from DFO Mahat Chandra Talukdar arrested in Dhemaji by Anti corruption Unit. The unit recovered Royal Bengal tiger skin, deer skin and more than 2 crore rupees from DFO Mahat Chandra Talukdar. Pic - UB Photos

Basar visited Safdarjung Hospital and Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, New Delhi today. The high level team was accompanied by Hospital Service Consultancy Corporation (HSCC) Chief Managing Director, Gyanesh Pandey and other officers, informed in a press release issued from the administration.

Chief Secretary Shakuntala Gamlin visits Delhi Hospital

It is noteworthy that these hospital buildings came up during the tenure of Mrs. Gamlin as Joint Secretary, Health in the Delhi Government.

OIL Super 30 achieves landmark success in the 2016 IIT Entrance Examination ET Correspondent Duliajan, June 14

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Dhemaji DFO makes money by blackmailing and bribe, blessing of high authority on him suspected

ET Correspondent Naharalagun, June14

In order to replicate the success of Safdarjung Hospital and Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, New Delhi in Tomo Riba State Hospital Naharlagun and the upcoming Medical college at Pachin near Naharlagun, a high level team of officers comprising State Chief Secretary Mrs. Shakuntala Gamlin, Commissioner Finance Ashish Kundra, Secretary Planning Dr. Joram Beda, Chief Engineer, PWD, Er. Toli

5.00

More cash, jewellery recovered from arrested DFO’s residence

High level team comprising CS visits Delhi hospitals

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Price -

from the marginalised sections of the society. The OIL Super 30 project is wholly supported

by Oil India Limited, India's second largest National Exploration & Production Company and is implemented

by Centre for Social Responsibility and Leadership (CSRL), New Delhi, across 5 centres of Guwahati, Jorhat and Dibrugarh in Assam, Jodhpur in Rajasthan and Itanagar in Arunachal Pradesh.

Today, the project has become a household name for the families, students and educationists, in the North Eastern region, as one of the best known CSR initiatives of OIL India Limited.

The centre-wise results of the OIL Super 30 Project are as under:

students in each centre) of e c o n o m i c a l l y disadvantaged families are

Centre

Students who have qualified JEE (Advanced) in 2016

Jodhpur

29

Jorhat

15

Dibrugarh

12

Itanagar

11

Guwahati

7

Total

74

Oil India Limited had instituted the CSR project, OIL Super 30, in 2010, with

its first centre at Guwahati.

Under the project, each year, 150 students (with 30

provided 11 months free residential coaching for IIT-JEE & other Engineering entrance examinations. With the help received from the project, students have attained admissions in various prestigious Engineering institutes like IIT, ISRO, NIT, State Engineering colleges, etc. and in leading Medical institutes, since 2011.

Going by the success and mass popularity of the project, OIL had opened its fifth centre at Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh, in 2015.

It is to be noted that a team of Anti-Corruption led by DSP Kauna Bordalai arrested him when he was taking bribe in his office and seized more than one crore rupees from his departmental quarter and residence in Guwahati along with a piece of ivory, tiger’s

skin etc launching a raid.

During the operation, the team of Anti-Corruption found bundles of notes even under the beds wrapping by pieces of news-papers besides Godrage Almirah.

It came to be known that the corrupted DFO made this money through blackmailing and taking bribe during the past two years. He wreaked an environment of havoc among the supplier of sand gravel, pgravel, timber merchants etc by demanding money. He collected bribe regularly, month after month, from more than seventy illegal saw mills sand and stone quarries of the district.

Moreover, he got commission from each and every truck which used to carry sands and p-gravel throughout the district.

Contd. on Page 4

Pontoons, airships to plug IndiaBangladesh border in Assam ET Bureau New Delhi, June 14

Pontoon bridges, sluice gates and airships will be deployed to plug the riverine and vulnerable frontier patches along the 60-km stretch on the Indo-Bangla border in Assam with government hoping to completely seal it by June next year.

With the help of highresolution cameras, a stricter vigil will be kept on the porous border that is perennially used for infiltration and smuggling of cattle and drugs, officials privy to the development said today.

The Border Security Force has constituted a team of senior officials to accomplish the target by involving officials from the Assam government

BSF Jawan guarding Indo-Bangla border in Assam. and those from premier technology institutions like IITs. As per a blueprint prepared in this regard, a total of 60.7km long Indo-Bangla

International Border (IB) in Assam is to be plugged by deploying smart technology and non-physical barriers.

Contd. on Page 4

Assam CM Sonowal takes stock of the construction work of Assam House at Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi Marg A Staff Reporter Guwahati, June 14

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal took stock of the ongoing construction work of Assam House at Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi Marg here today. The Chief Minister went round the entire building from the two lower basements to the top floor and asked DK & Associates, the builders, to complete the construction work within the stipulated time frame.

Sonowal said he would take up the matter regarding interior designing of the building during review meeting with officials of PWD (Building & NH)) in Guwahati soon. “The interior designing would have to reflect

the cultural mosaic of Assam as the building is our asset and a pride of Assam in the national capital. I would personally look into the matter and ask the department concerned to engage a good interior designer and to start the tendering process immediately,” he said.

Later the Chief Minister had a telephonic talk with Commissioner & Special Secretary, PWD (Building & NH) AC Bordoloi and directed him to start the tendering process for the interior designing of the Assam House. During the inspection, Sonowal told the engineers at the site to adopt the green building concept and to make it ‘no-spitting’ and ‘no-smoking’ zones. Later

talking to media persons at the construction site, the Chief Minister said that priority would be given to provide accommodation to people of the State who come to the national capital for different purposes.

Resident Commissioner, Rwitticka Kalita was present at the time of inspection. The newly constructed Assam House will have 60 rooms, six VIP suites, three VVIP suites, one dormitory each for boys and girls, a dining hall, a waiting room, a lounge, a conference hall, two basements, one for car parking and the other for setting up offices. The construction cost is around Rs 51 crore. May, 2017 has been set as the deadline for construction of the house.

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DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15

PAGE 2 ASTRO FOR YOU Aries You realize it's a good thing to share the secrets of your success. Whatever you give will come back to you multiplied by nine. Now that you seek to be open and accommodating, more respect will come your way.

Taurus It is a day of dreaming and doing. Your ideas will click at work and help you shine through today. You will impress the boss with elegance and spend the evening with champagne and your love-struck beloved.

Gemini A great evening with your sweetheart will be the highlight of the day. It will be one of the better days in business; you will be able to earn enough money to save for the future. In the evening, you may have to spend a little extra.

Cancer Peruse thoughtfully before signing any document. As it is a day of financial loss, handle middlemen and agents deftly. New tempting offers are seen on the job front. So you may accept a new job.

Leo To fulfill your stated goals and aspirations you will work harder than usual today. You will take on more responsibility, and will garner praise for your business acumen. Going out to lunch or dinner with friends is a distinct possibility and you will in all probability generously offer to bear all the resulting expenses.

Virgo You are Alexander this day - undefeated and unassailable. You are on a wild goose chase for most of the day today. Unwittingly, you may invite unwarranted stress related to an ongoing assignment.

Libra Today may not be a great day for you professionally as higher ups in your office may try to block your path to success. You will have to spend more time doing work and this will mean spending less time with your family. Never forget the sacrifices your family members have made for your success.

Scorpio Being gregarious may just catch your fancy today. At work, you will remain fussy about assignments and deadlines. Socially, whom you choose to be with will decide who you are. Evening will be spent in the pleasant company of loved ones.

Sagittarius The fire within you is set to flare - professionally and personally. It won't be difficult for you to convince people of your intentions. Seek counsel from your superiors and predecessors before you dive into anything.

Capricorn A couple of fascinating developments on the family front will fill the air with excitement, and will keep you pleasantly occupied throughout the day. Your outstanding efforts at work will be rewarded adequately, but you will need to be extra careful while executing plans as you may commit mistakes that will do irreparable damage.

Aquarius If you're thinking of doing some soul-searching today, the stars completely back you.

And yes, remember to take a break - no one deserves it more. Go on a long drive with a buddy if you must. And if you get a chance to travel, grab it! Getting away from the humdrum will clear your mind.

Pisces Remaining dispassionate and being cold and clinical is the way to achieve success for you today. Do not let your sentiments interfere in matters of business, lest you regret it later. The evening may see you feel blue. Find something to do to cheer you up!

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 15-6-16 (WEDNESDAY) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha 6-15 A.M-Classical Music (Flute Recital) 6-50 A.M-Tokari Geet 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi (Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-05 A.M-Antara (Composite Programme of Hindi Film Songs) 12-30 P.M-Geetimanjari 1-10 P.M- Troops Programme 2-00 P.M-Singphow Songs 2-10 P.M-Brindagaan 2-30 P.M-Western Music Programme 3-45 P.M-Programme in Mizumishimi 4-0 P.M- Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 6-15 P.M-Ganya Raijor Anusthan 7-15 P.M-Chah Sramikor Aasor 7-45 P.M-Aadhunik Geet 8-00 P.M-Bijnan Jeuti 8-20 P.M-A Radio Report on the Celebration of "World Blood Donors Day" 9-30 P.M- Sahitya Kanan-1."Sahitya Sangbaad" by Jadav Gogoi,2.Story by Juri Bora Borgohain 10-00 P.M-Classical Music Sd-/H.O.P

CRPF conducts free medical camp in Towkok Tea Estate ET Correspondent Sonari, June 14: As part of its civic action programme, 149 Bn. of CRPF today conducted a free medical camp in Towkok Tea Estate near here today. The camp which was held in Towkok TE Lower Primary School premises got off to a start with an inaugural ceremony which was anchored

by Bijay Kr. Chawhan, Assistant Commandant 149 CRPF. Monimala Phukan Borthakur, DC Charaideo, Manhish Mishra, SP Charaideo, Sameer Kr. Srivastav, Commandant 149 CRPF and Arun Kr. Chaturbedi, General Manager, Towkok Group of Tea Estate attended the ceremony as chief guest. Dr. Surindaran Palakuri and Dr. Chandan Borbora conducted the medical camp in which more than 800 patients of the tea estate and its adjoining areas were treated and

given free medicines.

It is to be mentioned here that residents of Towkok Group of Tea Estate have recently been affected by diarrhea and some other water related diseases. More than 150 patients have been affected

by diarrhea in the estate so far.

The tea garden management and locals have appreciated the step taken by CRPF. The camp was organised by the CRPF in association with the Sivasagar District Health Society.

Workshop on “Lab and live basics on Lepidoptera” held at Digboi College A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Jun 14: A workshop on Lab and Live Basics on Lepidoptera and its Identification and Curation of micro and larger Moths families occurring in Dehing Patkai Region was held at Digboi College on Sunday. This programme was organized by Wildlife Conservation Biology Course, (COC-UGC sponsored course) of the Department of Zoology, Digboi College and was conducted by the first batch students of the course for the session 20142015.

Altogether 54 students and teachers participated in the workshop. Teacher faculty participant from Nakachari College, Dr. Kumud Ghose and Mrs. Monimala Saikia from Assam Agriculture University also attended the workshop.

Students from Margherita College, Digboi College, Tinsukia College, DHS Kanoi College, Salt Brook Academy, St. Mary’s Higher Secondary School, and student from NERIST, Arunachal Pradesh attended this one day certificate course workshop.

The workshop was started with a welcome speech and delivering the purpose of the workshop by Mr. Rajib Rudra Tariang, Coordinator of the COC, Wildlife Conservation

Biology Course and Asst. Professor in the department of zoology, Digboi College. Mr. Kedar Nath Timsina, VicePrincipal delivered his inaugural speech and encouraging to all participants by his valuable speech.

There were four session in the said workshop conducted by Mr. Subhasish Arandhara, A P.G. student at A.V.C. College, at Chennai who is also an exstudent of Digboi College. Mr. Arandhara from his B.Sc. standard gathered many knowledges on wildlife and especially on moths. Mr. Arandhara is regarded as a

Moth Experts in this region by Mr. Tariang and various others. As this young enthusiast’s scientist had gathered so many information on moth, this workshop was organized to spread the knowledges among the interested students and moth enthusiast of this region in four sessions.

In the first session Mr. Arandhara discussed on the Phylogeny, Evolution and Ecology of Lepidoptera which broadly dealt with the general biology, fundamentals of taxonomy, how the phylogenetic trees can be read, phylogeny of Lepidoptera, the origins and

HTF opposition of ST(H) status to Bodo continues Sushanta Roy Diphu June 14: Activists of ‘Hills Tribe Protection Forum’ a conglomeration of several social, political and students organization of Karbi Anglong staged a 12 hour hunger strike at Digholipukhuri, Guwahati to protest against Union Cabinet’s decision of granting schedule tribe ( hills) status to the Bodo community people settled in Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao autonomous districts of Assam.

The HTPF also organized a sit in demonstration in the same venue today demanding roll back of the cabinet decision of May 25, 2016. It may be mentioned here that granting of ST(H) status to the Bodo’s domiciled in the hill districts of Assam is the clause 8 of the Bodo accord signed in 2003 between Govern-

ment of India, Assam Government and Bodo Liberation Tiger (BLT). This particular issue has been persuaded by the Congress government in power at Dispur at the perseverance of the Congress ruled Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council until recently; but the BJP government at the centre took a firm a resolution to accomplish the clause.

It may be brought up here that Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council executive committee led

by Dr. Jayanta Rongpi recommended on October 25, 1991 on the basis of its EC resolution that “ the Bodos and the Tiwas living in Karbi Anglong should be accorded due scheduling in the Sixth Schedule areas”. The resolution however recommended that the due scheduling should be done within the ambit of an au-

tonomous state as provided in Article 244(A) of the constitution. Ironically the Tiwas living in these two districts were accorder ST (H) status keeping the Bodo tribes aside also by paying no heed to the EC resolution. The scheduling of the Tiwas who are more populated then the Bodos, did not invite any political resistance from any political party or pressure group.

The Congress ruled Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council persuaded the issue again in 2002, Principal Secretary of KAAC based on the EC resolution of KAAC vide his letter no KAAC PS-EC/2002(A)/22nd July 2002, wrote to the Ministry of Home Affairs to “solve the Bodo issue amicably in the interest of peace and development of the region”.

evolution of Lepidoptera and ecological interactions among abiotic factors and among individuals. Within this session another 6th sem outgoing Zoology major student Mr. Suman Barman who is also a students in the COC Wildlife Conservation Biology, who spoke about butterflies in general with special reference to the butterflies of Dehing Patkai regions.

In the second session Mr. Arandhara spoke on the Micro and Macro Moths of the Assamese Region. The Assamese region is endowed with a rich diversity of micro

as well as macro moths, with reference to the Dehing Patkai Region, which is situated in the Eastern Himalayan Hotspot.

Most of the common families with pictorial enumeration were discussed and about their habits and possible foot plant families.

In the third session, Mr. Arandhara spoke on the Studying Moths, Field identification, Collection, Preservation. This was basically a methodology session that included the techniques to study moths, moth trapping and other field identification techniques for moth families were discussed along with the traditional taxonomic methods for authentic identification and describing lepidopterans.

In the last session, Mr. Arandhara spoke on the curation of Specimens in laboratory: pinning, spreading, and studying of wing venation and genitalia dissection. A laboratory technical session was also held in Department of Zoology Laboratory to helped the students to learn about dealing with the specimens, how to preserve Lepidoptera for further study, wing venation study techniques were introduced along with dissection of genitalia which are the authentic characters for identification of a species. Interactive session was also carried out among the participants.

AAKJSU to hold protest against government if demands are not fulfilled ET Correspondent Bajali, June 14: The All Assam Kalita Janagosthi Students' Union (AAKJSU) president, Anupal Dutta Pathak during visit to Bajali, said that the central government and the state government have to declare Schedule Tribe (ST) status and autonomy to the 70 lacks Kalita Janagosthi people under the six schedule of the Indian constitution.

The president Anupal

Dutta Pathak said that if the central government and the state government will not declared Schedule Tribe (ST) status and autonomy then AAKSJU will protest against the government and AAKJSU is totally prepared for that.

AAKJSU to send 3 lacks letter to the PM of India within 8 August regarding the demand and to submit memorandum to Chief Minister of Assam.

Sunsilk Mega Miss North East and Fair & Lovely Men Mega Mister North East reaches their final milestone A Staff Reporter Guwahati, June 14: Mega Entertainment, north east’s largest fashion and pageant event organizer, announced the dates of the grand finale of Sunsilk Mega Miss North East and Fair & Lovely Men Mega Mister North East today at Reliance Trends, Lachit Nagar.

The Mega Entertainment authorities announced that the Grand Finale of Fair & Lovely Men Mega Mister North East, supported by Reliance Trends, Radisson Blu, Vodafone U, Axe Signature and State Bank of India, will be held on 18th June from 7 onwards.

On 19th June, 7 pm onwards, ITA Cultural Complex will host the Grand Finale of Sunsilk Mega Miss North East, which has been supported by Reliance Trends, Radisson Blu, Vodafone U and State Bank of India.

The finalists have been chosen through a series of auditions held in Itanagar, Dibrugarh, Shillong, Silchar, Agartala, Imphal and Guwahati last month. Through these auditions, the pageant organizers have shortlisted 50 women, who will vie for the coveted title ofSunsilk Mega Miss North East, and 45 men will compete to become the most desirable man of the region, and to win the title ofFair & Lovely Men Mega Mister North East. The two events are inspired by fashionpreneur and the powerhouse of fashion & pageant industry Abhijit Singha.

Sunsilk Mega Miss North East, celebrating its 14th edition, will feature some of the most beautiful young women of the north east, who will be joined by popular radio jockey from

gorgeous best with hair that perfectly prepped-conditioned and styled and always on her side.

Mega Mister North East will also have a special wild card segment powered by Axe Signature, where five contestants will earn direct entry into the semifinals. For this, each contestant will have to answer a few questions to make sure that they “Don’t Fade Away” into the list of numerous contestants who appeared for the auditions.

RED FM RJ Nabish, who will be hosting the pageant. During the strong competition the contestants will be judged in three categories: traditional wear, evening gown presentation and personality interview. Jessica Marbaniang from Meghalaya, Sunsilk Mega Miss North East 2015, will crown the winner at the conclusion of the pageant.

The press meet was addressed

by Abhijit Singha, Founder of Mega Entertainment and Managing Director of the two pageants, who said, “Over the last few years, Sunsilk Mega Miss North East and Fair & Lovely Men Mega Mister North East have evolved dramatically to become the leading pageants of the northeastern region. Our responsibility does not culminate with mere crowning of the winners. Our actual mission is to give our winners an international platform from where their dreams can take flight.

This year, with the support of ICSI, our winners will get an opportunity to travel across the South East Asian countries, thus giving them an opportunity to study the myriad cul-

tures of the different countries that will help groom them for the global fashion industry as well.”

“Also, as in our previous years, the winner of Sunsilk Mega Miss North East will get an opportunity to walk on the ramp of LakméFashion Week for Reliance Trends, another feat that even well established models rarely achieve”, he added.

Also present on the occasion were Babul Boro, Mega Mr. North East 2015, Jessica Marbaniang, Mega Miss North East 2015 and Bobby Singh, member of Mega Entertainment. The pageant winners of last year shared their experiences of winning the title and how it has changed their lives.

Fair & Lovely Men Mega Mister North East is now celebrating its 7th edition. During the competition, the contestants will be judged in four categories: traditional wear, Black Suit presentation, Reliance Trends collection and personality interview as they vie to become the “most desirable man of northeast”. Babul Boro

from Assam, Fair & Lovely Men Mega Mister North East 2015, will coronate the winner at the conclusion of the pageant.

Besides the regular screening process, Mega Entertainment has also initiated an online voting campaign through its Fast Track partner Vodafone U for the contestants of Sunsilk Mega Miss North East and Fair & Lovely Men Mega Mister North East. The contestant who gets the highest number of likes will be adjudged the Vodafone U Fast Track Entry Winner who will get a direct entry into the semifinals, thus taking them a step closer to their dream.

As the title sponsor of Mega Miss North East, Sunsilk gives the ladies a chance to get a direct entry into the top-20 by participating in the “Sunsilk Wild Card Contest”. Sunsilk, known for its creatively ingenuous hair hacks; gives five aspirants a chance to “hack” their way into the contest and stand an equal chance of winning the pageant. After all, Sunsilk is a girl’s perfect ally that ensures that she looks her

The Sunsilk Mega Miss North East 2016 prize package includes: cash prize of Rs 50000, gifts from pageant sponsors, opportunity to become the face of Sunsilk’s print and outdoor campaigns and an opportunity to walk the biggest fashion event of the country Lakmé Fashion Week for Reliance Trends in Mumbai. The Fair & Lovely Men Mega Mister North East 2016 prize package includes: cash prize of Rs. 50,000, gifts from pageant sponsors, opportunity to become a showstopper during North East Fashion Weekend.

Besides, winners of both the pageants will win travel opportunities in South East Asian countries with ICSI, professional representation by Mega Entertainment, portfolio shoot

by Rahul’s Spectrum, public relations and reputation management for one year by Life’s Purple. The winners will also be offered a professional grooming session, which would guide them further on how to carry themselves forward in the professional sphere. Moreover, the winners also get the opportunity to walk the ramp in various national and international shows.

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15

PAGE 3 Governor condoles the demise of Army Officer A Staff Reporter Itanagar, June 14: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Shri JP Rajkhowa has expressed grief and mourned the demise of Lt. Col. Pankaj Chauhan in a road accident. Lt Col. Chauhan of 218 Medium Regiment was stationed at Likabali, West Siang District.

Conveying sincere and heartfelt condolences on behalf of the people of Arunachal Pradesh and on his own behalf, the Governor prayed for eternal peace of the departed soul.

My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and relatives, he said.

Governor congratulates martial art team A Staff Reporter Itanagar, June 14 : The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Shri JP Rajkhowa has congratulated the Arunachal Pradesh Tenshinkan ShotokanRyu Karate –Do Association Team, which have won 11 (Eleven) medals, including eight gold in the 16th Tenshinkan Shotokan Karate Championship held in Nainital, Uttarakhand from 10th to 12th June 2016. He has also congratulated the chief instructor of the association, Sensei Tai Hipik for guiding the team to accomplish the feat.

Delighted with the feat that martial artists of the State are doing exceptionally good in National arenas, the Governor has exhorted the sportspersons of the State to aim high and put in more hard work to carry forward the tempo in the international areas.

Rajiv Gandhi University must be looked after, The allegations against the state Chief Minnourished and taken upmost care: Governor ister are fabricated, biased, and politically motivated, says Bengia Agung A Staff Reporter Itanagar, June 14: “If at all, people should fear Nyishis for their intelligence and not certainly for violent use of ‘dao’ or vandalism,” asserted Bengia Agung, president of Nyishi Welfare Society (NWS) in a Press conference held at Arunachal Press Club today.

Governor JP Rajkhowa intrecting with students’ and employees’ representatives of the RGU at Raj Bhavan, Itanagar A Staff Reporter Itanagar, June 14 : The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Shri JP Rajkhowa, emphasized that Rajiv Gandhi University (RGU), Rono Hills, Doimukh, which is the premier institute of higher education in the State must be looked after, nourished and taken upmost care.

Interacting with students’ and employees’ representatives of the RGU at Raj Bhavan, Itanagar on 14th June 2016, the Governor said that higher education in the State must be strengthen, if the State has to progress with time. All efforts must be there to ensure that conducive environment for learning prevails in the University Campus for the students and faculty members. There must be infrastructural support from all including State and Central Government. Onus is also on the University Frater-

World Blood Donors' Day celebrated with students of Mangaldai college

nity to facilitate its growth and augmentation, the Governor, who is the Chief Rector of the Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Doimukh pointed.

The Governor, which acknowledging that RGU is now one of the major centers for research and developmental activities covering multidisciplinary and emerging areas of knowledge in the North Eastern Region, where large number of seminars and workshops are conducted and which are attended by many subject-experts and educational luminaries from different parts of the country and abroad, stressed that it must have good road connectivity.

When roads are good, people from different parts of India and abroad, will come, which will immensely beneficial for the students, faculty and for the people of the State. He advised the Public Works Department officials to ensure

that roads and side drains are maintained. Regular supervision, proper estimate, standard raw materials and latest technology and machines are used.

The Governor suggested for awareness campaigns by RGU fraternity on importance of good roads amongst the people and also explore legal actions against those who create blockage and hindrance of the side-drains.

On being informed that there is no lighting system on the 2.5 km road from Doimukh to RGU, which at times create problem for the students and employees who have to go on foot in the evening, the Governor suggested that a project may be submitted for lighting system to the North Eastern Council through the State Government. He pointed that RGU caters students from different States of the North Eastern Region and at the same time, many

people from different parts of the country, particularly from NE region are employed there. Therefore, the North Eastern Council must consider funding the project, which will benefit people from the region. He added that it must be submitted on top priority.

Earlier, the Chief Engineer (PWD) Western Zone, Er. Nani Tatung and Chief Engineer (Electrical) Western Zone Er. Jumtum Tato briefed the Governor on the status of roads and electrical power in and around the University Campus. Presidents RGU Employees association Dr. Nani Tamang Jode and President RGU Students Union Shri Nabam Akin briefed him on the problems faced by them.

Commissioner (power) Shri Bolung Siram, Additional Secretary to Governor Shri BS Hada were present in the meeting amongst others.

Suggesting that the incumbent executive members of the Nyishi Elite Society (NES) should have guided the Nyishi community on such progressive direction, the NWS president while citing the recent news item about NES serving ultimatum to the government on the ‘derogatory audio clip against Nyishi community’ allegedly by CM Pul, dismissed the whole claim saying, “the allegations against the state Chief Minister are fabricated, biased, and politically motivated” said NES President Bengia Tolum.

Also, highlighting that the matter is in the court and that anything beyond it will amount to contempt of court, Bengia Agung demanded on the NES to desist from ‘misguiding the community at the pretexts of false glory.’

“How many more people are you going to sacrifice for the glory of NES?” asked Agung before adding that, “The common Nyishis’ are fed up with violence and hate propaganda erupting from the office of the NES under its President, Bengia Tolum who is using the registered body as a tool for fulfilling the desires of his individual interest and

NWS during press conference at Arunachal Press Club those of his political master (s).”

ter has done in 15 minutes.”

Further, blaming NES for not working in the interest of the Nyishi people, the NWS president raised concerned as to why NES has remained silent in matters of developmental progress of the Nyishi dominated areas.

Agung specifically highlighted the issues of the closures of all government hostels of the Nyishi dominated areas, non progress of a hugely potential tourist destination like Pakke-Kessang and non-recognition of the man behind the establishment of state capital, Itanagar Nabam Runghee as an absolute failure on the part of NES.

Also, addressing the media persons, Nabam Taring, NWS spokesperson dared on the NES president saying, “If you are really consider yourself as the apex body of the community, convene a general consensus meeting on the issue,” before going on to add that, “community based organisation cannot function at the whims and fancies of an individual.”

Reiterating on this, Kipa Robniang, NWS Convenor asserted that “NES is not the largest body of the Nyishi community but rather, a group of elite Nyishis with its few members from the privileged class with no representation from the poor and middle class Nyishis who are in majority.”

Meanwhile, the NWS members demanded on the NES to refrain from any further mis-guidance and also not delve into issues of politics.

Herein, the NWS while heaping praise on the incumbent CM Kalikho Pul for recognising the contribution of Nabam Runghee, took a dig at NES saying “NES or its (Nyishi) Chief Minister could not do for the last 47 years which the present Chief Minis-

NIA files supplementary Sunpura bear the brunt charge sheet against of worst road condition three NSCN (K) cadres

Dimapur (Nagaland), June 14 (ANI): The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Tuesday filed a supplementary charge sheet against three members of the banned terrorist group National Socialist Council Nagaland (Khaplang faction) NSCN (K) in a special NIA court in Dimapur on Tuesday.

Accused - Nasaka I NCC and Scouts cadets donate blood during a blood Kinny and Atoshe- were donation camp organized by Director of Sports and Youth armed cadres of NSCN Welfare on the occasion of World Blood Donor Day at GMCH Blood Bank in Guwahati. Pic UB Photos (K) who had attacked a Assam Rifles personnel in ET Correspondent and Health Officer , march, 2015 in Kohima.

Mangaldai, June 14: In Mangaldai and other se- All the members of the an unique move to in- nior health officials among volve more and more others. Prior to the blood youths in the movement donation camp the orgaof voluntary blood dona- nizers offered felicitation tion , the Blood Bank au- to office bearers of various thority of Mangaldai Civil NGOs associated with Hospital today observed voluntary and safe blood the World Blood Donors' donation campaign in- Kolkata, June 14 : WelcomDay at Mangaldai college cluding Crystal Vision , ing the implementation of and Services Tax in the premises in collaboration Rising Hands Mangaldai Goods country, Chief Minister with the NCC company of Nirman Shramik Sanstha Kalikho Pul on Tuesday called the college . The day long , NERIM and IRADO be- for the need for exemption procelebration featured a sides individual blood do- vision and flexibility within the long awareness rally in nor namely Captain GST Laws, especially for state the morning which Harimon Deka in charge like Arunachal, which could be kept in the same catmoved from college cam- of NCC Mangaldai col- not egory as the bigger and more pus to Bhebarghat lege among others as a developed states. chariali with the participa- mark of public recognition Attending the Empowered tion of NCC cadets , stu- and encouragement to Committee meeting of State dents , trainees of GNM their ideal social commit- Finance Ministers on GST here, Pul who also holds fitraining college , members ment . portfolio said that such of different NGOs , staff The felicitation function nance exemptions are must to emand officials of health de- also witnessed sharing of power those states lagging in partment , followed by a their personal experience development to assess and crepublic meeting and felici- by no of donors including ate state-specific tariffs and tation programme in the Sekhar Mazumdar , Pappu exemptions that will address Science Gallery and then Kabeer , Runjun Debi and the issues of the developmengap. a voluntary blood dona- Mayukh Goswami among tal The Empowered Committee of tion camp .The rally was others and from their Finance Ministers was preinaugurated by Bidyut speech it was clearly re- sided over by its Chairman and Bikash Bhagawati ADC , flected that the act of West Bengal Finance Minister Darrang in charge of blood donation to a needy Amit Mitra and attended by FiHealth while the blood do- person offers everyone a nance Ministers from 22 states.

Informing on various tax exnation camp where about divine pleasure and the emption structures for 30 donors comprising stu- best bond of relationship Arunachal, the Chief Minister dents , NCC cadets , NGO in the world. In the begin- said that 99% VAT exemption, members and GNM train- ning of the function Dr which has been given as an ees donated blood was in- Daud Ali , Medical Officer industrial incentive is must to and protect the state’s augurated by Gurujyoti in charge explained about promote emerging manufacturing secDas , MLA ,Mangaldai in the significance of cel- tor. presence of Principal ebrating the Day while “It is important to understand Mangaldai College Dr prominent young singer that Arunachal Pradesh is a net Khagedra Kr Nath , in master Palash and GNM consuming state and is in its charge Joint Director of trainee Bohona Barooa early phase of industrial and growth, and thereHealth Services , Darrang added more colour to the economic fore requires such protection Dr Ramesh Ch Goswami function with rendering of and promotion,” he stressed. , Dr Nirmal Ch Beriya , songs by Dr Bhupen Pul also expressed concern Sub Divisional Medical Hazarika. over entry tax in Arunachal to

proscribed group has been booked under sections 120 B, 302, 307, 326 of the IPC, section 25 (1) of the Rms Act and sections 16, 18, 20, 23 of UA (P) act.

The first chargesgheet in this regard was filed on 23 November, 2015 against the three accused.

The case pertains to firing at the Indiara Gandhi Satduim, Kohima, in which one of the Assam Rifles personnel was killed and three were injured, in an attack by NSCN Cadres.

Bishnu Rana Tezu, June 14: Public of Sunpura circle and adjoining villages have been in utter desperation due to worst road condition experience the public for the last few months.

Indiscriminate transportation of River Bed Materials (RBM) has completely damaged the 20 Km 9 class of road. Around 20 Dumpers in a day lift RBM and Sand from Lohit River for Sadiya double – lane road and Sadiya Bridge. According to sources the road that sustains 25 to 30 tons of loads failed totally to uphold 50 to 60 tons of weight that left the entire road out of shape.

“It’s impossible to drive a

most sufferer!!”, rues one of the villager from Sunpura in the state of anonymity. The road is completely worn down. The concern authority needs to give urgent attention to develop the road, he further urges.

Dilapidated road condition in Sunpura Circle

Car then a SUV or Trucks.

We at Sunpura circle have mostly car and with no option during our back and forth journey to Tezu we

Chief Minister Kalikho Pul attends GST meeting in Kolkatta be subsumed by the present form of GST law, which could mean a huge revenue loss to the state government.

“In Arunachal, entry tax is not an additional tax; rather input tax credit (ITC) is given to the dealer to the extent of entry tax paid while filing VAT returns,” said the Chief Minister. “It is a kind of advance VAT paid by every dealer and 80% of revenue collection in our State comes from entry tax.”

Further he requested that the existing entry tax collection centres at border check gates on the Assam-Arunachal border be allowed to be converted as focal points for collection of advance GST as well as a centre for GST administration.

In view of poor service sector in Arunachal with very less contribution to the tax base, the Chief Minister emphasised that Revenue Neutral Rates (RNR) as proposed currently, will adversely affect the revenue generation of the state and it is assumed that the State will lose income.

“In order to reinforce, or at least maintain the quantum of revenue generated for Arunachal, we request that Government of India extend the tenure of revenue compensation to 10 years, considering that it is a Special Category State,” he urged.

The Chief Minister suggested on creating a mechanism through which the end-use destination is reflected at the time of purchase and the subsequent tax that accrues from

this, is made available to the Destination State.

“This could be through a system where the invoice is raised against the destination of use, where the taxes will be paid.

Or if it is paid at the time of purchase, the law needs to provision that the State of final consumption of goods and services is remitted the due share of the tax,” Pul suggested.

Highlighting the IT connectivity and power issues in the state, the Chief Minister informed that the state is facing great hindrance while preparing for IT infrastructure to implement the GST as the state does not have multiple internet service providers and it has to depend on BSNL, whose services are also inconsistent.

Pul called for centre’s intervention in creating a robust IT infrastructure in Arunachal Pradesh to develop capacity for full compliance of the GST. He suggested an alternate mechanism through the Goods and Service Tax Network (GSTN) that could be asked to take care of the last mile connectivity in the state.

In view of the poor IT infrastructure and connectivity, the Chief Minister said that filing of e-returns will be a difficult provision to implement on the ground.

“If GST has to be implemented from the next financial year onwards, a transition from paper-based tax registration system to an electronic form requires phasing, over certain duration with provisions for

this in the Model GST law,” he suggested.

Calling for exemption in provision of PAN-based registration, the Chief Minister said that the state of Arunachal Pradesh is predominantly a tribal state whose residents are exempted from income tax and by extension, the provision of Permanent Account Number (PAN) does not apply to the State.

Welcoming the GST, Pul said that the law indeed has potential to lead to the economic integration of India, by seeking to create a uniform tax levied on goods and services across the country to replace the complicated, often overlapping taxes levied by the Centre and the State separately today.

Also by provisioning that both the centre and the state will have powers to legislate and administer respective taxes, it seeks to equally empower both, he added.

“It is from that perspective that I express how important this meeting of the empowered committee, to work collectively in creating a law that is effective, comprehensive and having space for states to create responses to local dynamics- like with Arunachal Pradesh,” said Pul. Also attending the meeting, the Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley observed that there is “complete” consensus on implementation on GST and hoped that it would be approved in monsoon session.

damage our vehicle and caused much inconvenient to reach Tezu for Official or any kind of assignment.

However the patients are the

At number of pocket the entire formation are disappeared and at some places to covered the big potholes mud were filled up that caused stuck up of loaded truck and mini truck. This sorts of road scenario is witnessed first time in the history of Sunpura, aggrieves another. Sunpura is the oldest circle of Lohit district and is located 35 Km away from the Tezu Township bordering Sadiya district of Assam.

Anti malaria month inaugurate at Zero ET Bureau Ziro, June 14 : The Observation of June as Anti malaria month was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Shri Kemo Lollen in the conference hall of the General Hospital, Ziro today.

Addressing the senior doctors, nurses, ASHAs and paramedical staffs DC cum Chairman District Health Society Shri Kemo Lollen called for a collective effort from the entire medical fraternity to reduce diseases and ensure a healthy society. The visits of the medical team to rural villages had been an event of festivity in earlier days, let’s affirm today to regain that glory, he added and exhorted the doctors and nurses posted across the district to work sincerely and with dedication. He further advised the paramedical staffs engaged in the spraying and distribution of insecticide nets to ensure catchment areas are covered.

Narrating about his visits to PHCs and CHCs in Raga and Ziro-I block, he said he was anguished to see the ill facilitated centers without proper water and electricity connections. Few newly constructed CHCs and other infrastructures were below standards and not handed over to the Medical Department. Taking a serious note of such cases, shri Lollen warned the contractors and other officials involved and directed them to initiate corrective measures immediately. He also directed the ADCs of Raga and Yachuli to visit CHCs and PHCs in their jurisdiction and take a firsthand stock of the facilities.

DMO Dr. Moli Riba while speaking on the occasion said that Ziro I is almost malaria free owing to its cold climatic conditions, but foothill regions of the district like

Yazali, Dollunghmukh, Boasimla and Tamen have recorded malaria patients, and therefore requested the District Program Officer for Vector Borne diseases Dr. Kuru Tama to concentrate the distribution of Long lasting insecticide nets to these regions.

Terming the AHSAs as the backbone of rural health he said that they have immensely contributed in providing the necessary data required for planning policies and programs for rural health. They can again assist in curbing malaria by educating people around to reduce the mosquito sources. He also informed that all the registered mobile numbers of the ASHAs will be recharged with 100 rs talk time till March, 2017 for easy reporting.

ZPM Nitti shri Tilling Sambyo suggested for proper drainage system and proper waste disposal o prevent water coagulation, which becomes the breeding ground for the mosquitoes.

Dr. Kuru Tama, DPO, DVBDCP presented a powerpoint on the status of the vector borne diseases in the district. He reported that according to the epidemiological data from 2011 to 2015 no deaths from malaria has been recorded in the district. 44600 nos of Long Lasting Insecticides nets(LLIN) have so been distributed in the district since January 2016. Camps were organized in Dollunghmukh, Boasimla and Yazali to educate about malaria control and LLINs distributed. Also as a part of the anti malaria month social service was conducted in the premises of the General Hospital.

Later Caps and T shirts for anti malaria month were distributed to all the participants.

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15

PAGE 4

Illegal gun factory busted, 2 held in Dhula Blood Donors Crested Serpent rescued at Naharkatia Day observed

ET Correspondent Naharkatia, June 14: A time when few peoples are hunting down animals for their personal benefit and while few are destroying the jungles and cutting down trees, yet there are few people who are still trying to save the jungles and the animals, and today this was seen at a place called Namati, few kilometres away from Naharkatia where a rare species of eagle bearing the scientific name Crested Serpent's kid was recovered.

According to the informa-

The recovered Crested Serpent's kid . Pic - Debojit Sonowal

tion received a person name Hemodhar Chetia viewed the eagle kid in nearby jungle, viewing which he immediately rescued the kid and informed to a local na-

ture lover Mayur Mahanta.

Later on getting the information the eagle was rescued by the forest personal and given medical treatment.

Sales tax department raids in Tinsukia Spl Correspondent.

Tinsukia, June 14: Day after the BJP government in Assam dismantled, illegal cheque gets to put a stop on illegal collections on goods coming from other states by government officials, three teams of sales tax depart-

ment raided 2 transports in Tinsukia and seized goods without bills to nail this illegal practice. This move by the sales tax department has sent panic waves across transporters and traders in Tinsukia.

According to sources, the raids were conducted at the offices and godowns of Shree Bharat Roadlinks and Great Eastern. The team of sales tax was headed by the officers of the rank of superintendent.

Uncertainty looms large over the resumption of rail communication between Lumding -Silchar ET Correspondent Haflong, June 14 : Uncertainty looms large over the resumption of rail communication between Lumding -Silchar as the authority has been trying to restore the track even after dismantling of track for at least four times at 92/3-5 km near Migrengdisa Railway Station since May 17th .

It is learnt that due to heavy rain a portion of railway track at 92/3-5 near Migrengdisa was damaged resulting to disruption of rail communication between Lumding - Silchar causing immense inconvenience to the people of entire Barak Valley and Dima Hasao.

Dima Hasao people in general and the student's community in particular are the worst sufferer for the disruption of train communication since the road communications to Silchar and Guwahati are also not reliable.

More over the student seeking admission to various places like Guwahati and Silchar suffered a lot due non-availability of communications.

Talking to this correspondent, R P Jingar, Chief Engineer, N

at Sivasagar 2 held in llegal gun factory.

arms .

Police seized a huge quantity of instruments and materials including electric wires , iron ball bearings used in cycles , nutbolts , sharp weapons , ammunitions of handmade rifle among others . However the main accused who also originally hails from Morigaon managed to escape. The arrested persons

have already confessed before about running the illegal gun making factory and supplying handmade fire arms and explosives to criminal including dacoits , rhino poachers etc. A case ( No 289 /16) U/S 25 (IA) Arms Act RW Sec 5 ES has been registered in Dhula PS and further investigations are on , the sources added.

Petrol pump looted at Kokrajhar ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, June 14: Unidentified miscreants last evening looted Rs 3.74 lakhs from NRL Oil Depot in Kokrajhar. The money, collected from the selling petrol and diesel was kept in the locker at the pump sta-

tion. The theft broke the locker and made way with the money.

An FIR was lodged at Kokrajhar police station.

Kokrajhar saw a series of theft in the last few weeks giving sleepless night to the

residents in Kokrajhar. Last week miscreants broke open at a house at Kokrajhar Ward No-8 (Hatimata) in the middle of Kokrajhar town which is just about 500 metres from the police station and looted many valuable items.

Pontoons, airships to plug IndiaBangladesh border in Assam Contd. from Page 1 Resumption of rail communication between Lumding -Silchar

F Railway who is very much familiar to this hill section disclosed that the behavior of Earth here at this portion is quite different to other places. The hillock on either side of the track is on approximate 8 meter layer of black soil, this black soil can absorb water but cannot discharge it due to which it becomes soft and muddy resulting to landslide with heavy pressure.

This is what happening in this section. Now we are reducing weight of soil above the black soil layer by cutting the 150m by 60 m hillock so that there would be no such pressure on

the foundation of track.

Though Jingar assured this correspondent that within five to six days they would be able to restore this portion provided there is no rain.

Conscious citizens of Haflong in particular appealed to the Railway authority to resume the train communication in between New Haflong and Silchar instead of Lumding Silchar when continuing the restoration work at Migrengdisa which be a great help for not only the people of Dima Hasao but also the people of entire Barak Valley.

The first Three day long North East Indigenous people’s meet concludes today ET Correspondent Tezpur, June 14 : The first three day long programme of son of the soil, indigenous people’s meet held at the Hem Baruah Hall here came to an end today. On the first day the programme started with the commemoration of indigenous tribal and national heroes like, Harjar Barma, Lachit Bar Phukan and Trikendrajit by the delegates representing from the seven sisters of the North East states. It was followed by the opening ceremony, and open session of the three day long programme under the aegis of President of Asom Sanmilita Mahasangha, Matiur Rahman. In this conference the delegates coming from across the region including Assam, Nagaland, Manipur, Mijuram, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh etc. came to a decision to fight together for the birth and legitimate right over their land.

In the same meeting for giving a united stand in favour of their rights a committee christened as “Monitoring committee for North Eastern region indigenous people’s right” taking R. Win Chiyem Sutong (prince of Jayantiya) as Convenor. The other members of the committee are Lendin Kota Aow (Nagaland Tribal Council), Theja Thora (Publicity secretary), Sunanta Jamatia and Jolendra Riyang (Member and Secretary, Tripura People’s Front), Robert Jun K Johri and Do Boklong K Lingduh (President and General Secretary Honey Trip Youth Council, Meghalaya), Matiur Rahman (Asom Sanmilita Mahasangha), Perom Tsiri of Arunachal Pradesh and President of the North-east India Manipuri Association, Madhu Chandra Singh. After the execution of the committee, it

ET Correspondent Mangaldai, June 14: In a major breakthrough against the notorious gang of criminals operating in Dhula Police Station areas in Darrang district , a joint team of police and CRPF led by Sub Inspector and Officer in charge of Dhula PS Ranjit Hazarka on Tuesday has busted a illegal gun and other explosive manufacturing factory in No 2 Magurmari Char and also apprehended two persons in this connection . According to police source , acting on a tip off the security forces raided the house and campus of one Hafej Ali and found the illegal factory operating . The security forces apprehended two persons identified as Kitap Ali and Ekambar Ali both residents of Morigaon district while they were manufacturing handmade fire

immediately held it’s first meeting at the venue of the conference wherein unanimously decided to extend their full support to the continued movement of Asom Sanimilita Mahasangha and the PIL filed in the supreme court regarding the illegal foreigners’ issue for the last many years. The meeting hoped that the Supreme Court would provide an adequate judgment to the petitioner party thereby paving a way of pushing back the illegal Bangladeshis and other foreigners. The meeting apprised the Asom Sanmilita Mahasangha for forming a platform through organizing such a consensus programme at Tezpur. “Under the initiative of Honey Trip Youth Council, Meghalaya the second meeting will be held on June 27 in Shillong.” Convenor of the newly formed indigenous body R. Win Chiyem Sutong revealed while interacting with the media after the meeting.

However, at the sideline of the three day long programme, addressing a press conference, Matiur Rahman in presence of President of Singphow Yatiya Parishad, Singphow King Bisa Long Singphow, President of All Assam Nichi Association, Perom Tsiri, Secretary of Moran Sahitya Sabha, Ajit Moran, President of Mising democratic right security committee, Bhupen Narah and Asstt. General Secretary of Asom Sanmilita Mahsangha, Surendranath Deka said that that if the burning issue of illegal foreigner that has been posing a serious threat to the region, particularly Assam and Tripura cannot gain priority in the supreme court of India the Indigenous body under the initiative of Asom Sanmilita Masangha will approach the

UNO. “We want a political and constitutional safe guard under the Indian constitution, because the illegal foreigners sneaking in to Indian soil either from Bangladesh, or from Bhutan, Nepal, Pakistan or other parts of the glob have paralyzed our every corner including hampering our demography and socioeconomic status.” He reiterated adding the eight hundred fifty five martyrs did not sacrifice their lives for making 25 March of 1971 as base year. “The base year 1951 fixed by the Indian Constitution for every illegal foreigners grabbing lands of any corners of the country has to be applicable for Assam also which is admitted in a united voice by all the indigenous tribal leaders of the region.”

Matiur Rahman said.

He also said that the legal fight that has been on over the years seeking a positive result in this concern will remain a continued process until and unless the illegal foreigners go out from the soil of Assam. Expressing his serious concern over the bias data mentioned in most of the Assam history he alleged that some so called historians wrote history according to their own intention neglecting the real facts and figures. “In most of the histories information are given wrongly hurting the image and dignity of the son of the soil.”

He reiterated. Meanwhile, the Singhphow king expressed before the media that the remote rural areas near LidoMargherita where the Singphow community use to stay are in a pitiable condition.

“We the Sigphows that once had a kingdom with sound economic condition etc. today have to think a better health facility or road communication etc. as a dream.” He lamented.

Hence, in riverine areas pontoon bridges are proposed to be laid so that BSF personnel can patrol and make 'morchas' (observation posts) atop them to monitor any movement along the border where rivers and rivulets run.

Of the 284-km IndoBangla border that falls in Assam, about 224-km is fenced. India shares a 4,096km frontier with Bangladesh on the eastern flank.

Also, it is proposed to build over two dozen sluice gates on the rivers, including in Dhubri area, so that the flow of water can be controlled and regulated and the phenomenon of

Brahmaputra River 'changing its course' during monsoons checked.

Officials said the border guarding force can also create some permanent watch towers in the area marked by dense jungles.

"Ever year when Brahmaputra changes course the BSF posts get hit and some get demolished.

Many have to be abandoned. Sluice gates can provide a solution to this challenge," they said.

It is also proposed, the blueprint said, to deploy static aerial platforms like aerostats that can be loaded with intelligent highresolution cameras to 'watch over' the border area.

"A smart operational command and control room will be created that will have all the machine and human surveillance feeds coming to it. The control room will be connected with optic fibre so that it can collect data from the ground and relay it upto Guwahati and further to the BSF headquarters in Delhi," they said.

BSF Director General K K Sharma and Additional DG A P Maheshwari had recently travelled to the affected areas in Assam and also briefed newly appointed Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal about the survey and analysis they conducted in the IB areas.

Dhemaji DFO makes money by blackmailing and bribe, blessing of high authority on him suspected Contd. from Page 1

A gang of sub-ordinates helped him in these activities. He blackmailed the suppliers seizing their trucks when they did not pay his regular dues.

It is alleged that he had maintained a good relationship with the

smugglers who supply timber to Arunachal Pradesh. With regard to it, several individuals of the district, who are unwilling to disclose their name, along with some organizations alleged that the misdeeds of the corrupted DFO were sponsored by a part of his high officers as he shared his bribe with them.

“Otherwise he would have been arrested earlier than this”-said one of them.

However, the nature loving organizations and the conscious citizens demanded the State Government exemplary punishment against him and enquiry to other corrupted officers of the Forest Department of the State.

ET Correspondent Sivasagar, June 14: World Blood Donor day was observed by Brihattar Axomiya Juva Parishad in collaboration with Sivasagar Civil Hospital blood Unit at Halaguri Higher Secondary School here at Sivasagar today. To mark the occasion an awareness rally of blood donation and a meeting was organised by them, where people donated blood.

Kalpana Deka the officer incharge of the Sivasagar Civil Hospitals blood unit

presented as chief guest.

On her address, she briefly described the benefits of blood donation.

Many officials of Sivasagar Civil Hospital and members of BAJM were presented in the meeting.

It may be mentioned that World Blood Donor Day is celebrated on June 14 every year to mark the birth anniversary of Karl Landsteiner, who first distinguished the main blood groups and discovered the Rh factor in human.

Seva Bharati constructs house to riot affected peoples at Kokrajhar ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, June 14: A total of 32 houses were dedicated to the riot affected peoples at Bhawraguri Jharbari village in Kokrajhar, which was initiated

by Seva Bharati, Purbanchal in association with Samasta Mahajan (Jain Samaj) Mumbai to make extending support their livelihood in the region.

The Seva Bharati, Purbanchal was founded in 1998 and since then working for the all round development and guidance to the youth, women and weaker section of the society to make well being of the social living.

Madhav Prasad Deputy Commissioner, Kokrajhar inaugurated the constructed houses for riot affected peoples in the area in the presence of Seva Bharati official and common masses at Bhawraguri village on Tuesday. Sarma lauded the initiative taken from Seva Bharati while giving house shadow for the needy citizens who were badly affected in riot situations. He said that the welfare initiated from the Seva Bharati and Samaj was appreciated job because riot affected peoples are getting extensive support through this noble job.

“We must thank Seva Bharati and Samaj, for their active role to construct houses for riot affected peoples. Dedication of

houses among the needy citizens will be benefitted in their livelihood”, said Sarma.

Bashista Bujarbaruah, incharge of Seva Bharati, said that it was a mission to assist the needy and riot affected peoples, who are living under severe crisis and problems in the area. The Seva was working for the welfare of the affected citizens among society so that needy citizens can get little help in their livelihood.

“We constructed 32 houses and a Manjhi Than at the village for the riot affected peoples, who were deprived from all needy benefits in the district. I thank Mumbai Samasta Mahajan for their kind hearted step to the construction of houses in the district”, said Bashista. Beneficiaries expressed their happiness after getting houses from Samasta Mahajan, Mumbai and Seva Bharati. They thanked to the organiser and extended their gratitude.

“We are very happy with getting house from Seva Bharati and Mumbai NGO, who have been step to give houses to us.

We extend our thanks for them.

We were riot affected peoples in this region where living under severe crisis and hardships in our life management”, said a beneficiary in the village.

Four arrested on charges of submitting fake document against NRC up-gradation process ET Correspondent Tezpur, June 14 : In a successful move the Sonitpur District authority has been able to apprehend altogether 353 culprits connected with submitting fake document for NRC up-gradation process with an intention of making illegal Bangladeshi nationals legal citizen of the region till date. Revealed in an official source of the district administration here. The sources said that investigative agency has been conducting investigation for checking any discrepancy. Amidst this process police arrested four persons yesterday and sent to the jail based on the report of submitting fake document in an NRC office here. The arrested persons are Abu Bakkar

Siddque of Bhujkhwa Village, Jainal Abeddin of Bhujkhwa Chapori, Fajar Ali of Garsinga Bihiagaon and Jesimuddin of Botamari Village. They were arrested based on the FIR lodged at Tezpur Police Station by the Circle officer, Tezpur revenue circle, Dr. Tahidur Rahman.

According to the source, for the verification some documents were sent to the office of the join Director, Health, Sonitpur where altogether 353 cases of fake document (birth certificate) were detected as fake. The sources said that some unscrupulous people have been involved in making the illegal foreigners to make them legal citizen of the region.

Tezpur labs supplying wrong reports to the patients Shambhu Boro Tezpur, June 14 : Most of the pathological laboratories located in the Tezpur town have been providing wrong reports to the patients for the years posing serious threat to the lives of many a people who approach these pathological laboratories for any test.

It is not our opinion, but a shocking experience of a poor and unfortunate villager of Jamuguri-Itakhula area who was about to loss his adorable 14 years old daughter named Tasmina Khatun. It is to be stated here that father of the minor and an inhabitant of Bhuyanapara area of the above mentioned place, Abu Taher on June 3 last visited

Dr. Matiur Rahman at EMM Hospital here owned by Dr. M Mirdha for the consultation of the stomach aching that her daughter was suffering for a long while. After the through examination Dr. Rahman suggested Abu Taher to go for an ultra sound diagnosis of his daughter. Accordingly an ultra sound test was done at Assam X Ray Clinic and Laboratory located at the heart of the town on the same day. In the report it was defined with the medical language –“Impression** Chronic appendicitis (the appendix is enlarged, measuring 6.0x6.2 mm in diameters)” based on which father of the minor girl got ready for undergoing an op-

eration of his daughter on June 7 last by Dr. Sayed Abdul Mazid at BK Memorial Hospital. However, fortunately it was postponed by the concerned doctor following certain technical issues. On the very next day he again approached the EMM Hospital for the issue where he met another surgical doctor, Dr. Sanjay Singh who suggested him for another USG test. Now Abu Taher approached another pathological laboratory popularly known as Matrix, situated at Hatipilkhana road where his daughter was diagnosed and in the report it was cited that the patient bore no any appendicitis problem citing in the report as – IMPRESSION- # Nor-

mal Visualized Organs.

The victim alleged, “I have even done another two different USGs at Biswanath Chariali for clearing my doubt over the matter where I got normal report.” Now demanding the authority concerned, particularly the Deputy Commissioner, Sonitpur Laya Madduri to take necessary steps against these non-up to the mark pathological laboratories, the victim person said before the media that only because of the wrong report supplied to him, by these labs his daughters’ life would be wounded. However, another incident that has come to light is that the Aastha Laboratory owned

by Dr. M. Mirdha and lo-

cated near Tribeni Complex, Raja Avenue, Kacharigaon is running by some non-expert subordinate employees instead of genuine doctor.

Some victims showing doctor’s previously signed some blank laboratory report letter head alleged that the employees provides a printout of test report against any case. Moreover, the conscious people here alleged that only few of the pathological laboratories in Tezpur are genuine as others have no any license.

“Not a single lab is up to the mark here, the owner of these labs are only running a business on the medically ignorant people making it a good earning source.” The People said

REGION

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15

NPP demands release of ADC funds

Opposition National People's Party (NPP) in Meghalaya on Monday Shillong, Jun 14: Opposition National People's Party (NPP) in Meghalaya on Monday demanded that the Meghalaya immediately release Rs. 267.40 crore sanctioned by the Centre to the three autonomous district councils (ADCs) in the state.

NPP president and newly elected MP Conrad K Sangma, said, "It has been five months, yet the state government is not releasing the amount meant for development of the ADCs." "We demand that the state government immediately release the money

along with five-month interest due to the ADCs," he said.

The Centre had in February sanctioned Rs. 1000 crore 'special assistance grant' for the upkeep of tribal councils in Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura and Assam. Of the Rs. 1000 crore, the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council in Meghalaya will be receiving Rs. 133.12 crore, the Garo Hills Autonomous District Council Rs. 100.71 crore and the Jaintia Hills Autonomous District Council Rs. 33.57 crore. (Agencies)

Interim stay against sugar bidding Shillong, Jun 14: The High Court of Meghalaya in an interim stay has asked the government not to issue any order to supply sugar to any of the bidders till the counter affidavit is filed and the matter is heard on preliminary issue.

The interim order was issued on May 25. The matter will come up for hearing on Tuesday.

Earlier, after P. Bhattacharjee, counsel for the petitioner who was the lowest bidder appeared, the Court issued notice to the respondents to show cause as to why the instant petition should not be considered or any other

order or orders should not be passed as found deemed fit and proper.

Since S. Sen Gupta, government advocate accepted the notice on behalf of the State, no formal notice was called for.

Later, the state government rim sta. " In the meantime as an interim measure the respondent is directed not to issue the supply order to any of the bidders till the counter affidavit is filed and the matter is heard on preliminary issue, whether on technical grounds the tender of the petitioner can be rejected or not", the Court observed.(Agencies)

State Congress trio to meet Joshi on Tuesday

Chief Minister Mukul Sangma Shillong, Jun 14: Chief Minister Mukul Sangma, MPCC president DD Lapang and the working president of the party Deborah Marak who are camping in Delhi will meet the AICC general secretary in-charge Meghalaya CP Joshi on Tuesday.

According to sources, though the Congress lead-

ers from Meghalaya consider their meeting with AICC leader as a courtesy call after Joshi took additional charge of the State, the political situation in Meghalaya will figure in the meeting.

The Shillong MP Vincent Pala will also meet Lapang in Delhi before he leaves for Shillong on Tuesday.(Agencies)

NPP for talks with all rebel outfits Shillong, Jun 14: National People's Party (NPP) president and newly elected MP from Tura Conrad Sangma has asked the State Government to initiate dialogue with all militant groups active in the state. Speaking to media persons here on Monday, Sangma said that the State Government should take necessary steps to provide rehabilitation and financial assistance to those militants who have surrendered to join the mainstream.

"If the situation is not

handled properly, it would boomerang," Sangma warned. "Several cadres of different militant organisations are surrendering. They are joining the mainstream. But it is also important that the government provides them a rehabilitation package," he said. It may be mentioned that pressure is mounting on the Chief Minister to invite HNLC for talks since the outfit has already expressed its willingness have dialogues with the Centre and the State Government.(Agencies)

PAGE 5

Five arrested KSA activists released Imphal, Jun 14: The volunteers of Kangleipak Students' Association (KSA) arrested by police in connection with the pulling up of two non-locals allegedly involved in the adulteration of common salt were on Monday released unconditionally by the Chief Judicial Magistrate, Imphal West.

KSA and other civil society organisations welcomed the released volunteers ceremoniously at KSA office.

Five volunteers of KSA - general secretary Sukham Bidyananda (26), Longjam Rajesh

(18), Khullakpam Sanjay (19), Yumnam Lu-wangamba (19) and Nong- maithem Biren alias Alex (18), along with shopkeeper Rajeshkumar Yadav (28) were released from Manipur Central Jail, Sajiwa after they were produced before the CJM, Imphal West on Monday.

When the five student activists were released from Sajiwa Jail, jubilant volunteers of KSA and other asso- ciations welcomed them with garlands. The volunteers walked the stretch from Keishampat to KSA

Five arrested KSA activists released head office shouting slogans on the way.

Meira Paibis of Sega road gave a warm welcome to the five volun-

teers with garlands.

Speaking to media persons KSA president Moirangthem Lakshman said the State

Government has been allegedly condoning the traders who were involved in adulteration of food items as indicated by the arrest of KSA executives. Thanking the CJM, Imphal West for hearing their plea and releasing the five executives without any condition, the KSA president said the association will call off their proposed bandhs.

However, KSA will continue with its drive to root out the unethical practice adulterating food items, the KSA president stated while urging the people to sup-

NPP 'unearths' PDS sugar scam Shillong, Jun 14: The National People's Party (NPP) has alleged irregularities in the tendering process for supply of sugar under the Public Distribution System in the state, even as it demands a CBI inquiry into the matter.

"We demand a CBI inquiry into the anomaly for favouring a particular bidder at an exorbitant rate," NPP legislator and spokesperson James K Sangma told media on Monday, besides demanding the resignation of the Food Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs minister Clement Marak pending the inquiry. Sangma alleged that the government this year has allotted the supply order to Beta Edibles Processing Pvt Ltd (BEPPL) at the rate of Rs

54,270 per MT which was more than what another firm, Kendriya Bhandar, had supplied at the rate of Rs 43,270/MT in 2014.

"The additional amount paid by the government comes to around Rs 2.72 crore per month," he claimed, demanding an explanation as to why the BEPPL was given the supply order at such an 'exorbitant rate'.

Meghalaya has been allotted over 1704 metric tons of PDS sugar per month and subsidies rate of Rs 18.50 per kg by the Central government.

Stating that there is a massive 'scam' in PDS, Sangma said that in the second tender in 2015, all the four bidders had quoted a bidding price in the range of Rs 4400045000 per metric tonnes.

Surprisingly, the Food and Civil Supplies Department offered the tender to one firm-Beta Edibles Processing Private Limited which quoted a whopping Rs 54, 270 per metric ton, he alleged.

The party also alleged the Government last year put another condition in the tender that the packaging unit should be in Meghalaya or nearby for close monitoring of the quality, packing and delivery of sugar and this was done to suit certain suppliers. The party would raise the issue before the Union Government, Sangma said adding the government had in 2014 forced two bidders - Sanna Enterprises and Tatyasaheb Kore Warna SSK Ltd, which had quoted Rs 37,850

and Rs 40,701 per MT to withdraw from the tender process.

According to Tura MP and NPP's national president Conrad Sangma, "Despite buying at a higher rate, there is a scarcity of PDS sugar in the state". Meanwhile, Food and Civil Supplies Clement Marak has refuted the charge saying all the bidding process was done online and "everyone has access to the bidding and the tender process."

He said that there was a tendering committee in the department headed by principal secretary and other senior officials of the department. He also said that the department issued the allotment order to the Beta Edibles Processing Pvt Ltd since the tendering process

was already delayed by three months.

Meanwhile, in a statement issued to the media, the principal secretary Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, PW Ingty clarified that sugar is being provided to PDS beneficiaries through the fair price shops in hygienically packed 1 kg poly bags, with the state logo, at the rate of Rs 20 per Kg, which is below the open market price of sugar.

"A transparent system of procuring sugar from the open market through etendering is being followed in the State, where the tender is allotted to the lowest successful bidder who has fulfilled all requirements in the tender document," the statement added.

(Agencies)

A record 5,546 ousted from CPI-M in Tripura in a year Agartala, Jun 14: A record 5,546 persons were expelled and dropped from the Communist Party of IndiaMarxist (CPI-M) in Tripura in the past one year, party official Bijan Dhar said here. "In the past one year, 535 members were expelled from the party and 5,011 whole-time members were either dropped from the party or denied renewal of membership for numerous reasons," Dhar, who is CPI-M Tripura state committee secretary, told reporters on Sunday evening.

He said despite the ouster of 5,546 people,

the membership rose to 91,578 this year, a growth of 2.24 per cent from last year. Following a decision taken in December at the party plenum, the CPI-M introduced stricter norms for continuance and renewal of membership, said Dhar, a CPI-M central committee member.

Women constitute 26.92 per cent of the CPI-M's members in Tripura, much more than about 10 per cent nationally.

"After the annual renewal of party membership during January to March, around 26.92 per cent of the 91,578 members in Tripura are

women," he said, noting that the state party has always had a better women representation than other states.

At the national level, around 10 per cent of the total of 10.58 lakh members (as per 2015 CPI-M congress data) is women.

The women membership of Tripura CPI-M rose to 26.92 per cent this year from 26.49 per cent last year and from 25.76 per cent from 2014. Of the total of 91,578 members, 35.55 per cent are tribals, 19.58 per cent are Scheduled Caste and 22.89 per cent are Other Backward Classes

(OBC).

The CPI-M dominated Left Front is in power in Tripura for the past 38 years except for five years from 1988 to 1993.

During 1988 to 1993, a coalition of the Congress party and tribal party Tripura Upajati Juba Samity, led by two successive Chief Ministers Sudhir Ranjan Majumder and Samir Ranjan Barman, ruled the state.

Dhar said: "Quality of party members is a big issue for us. Our rectification move is on and this is an endless task.

To maintain quality of membership is also a

Fate of state Ordinance hangs in balance Shillong, Jun 14: The state government may land up in trouble on the pending issue of parliamentary secretaries if one goes by the stand of the President of India who has rejected the Delhi Government's Bill on the appointment of parliamentary secretaries.

An agency report from Delhi said on Monday that President Pranab Mukherjee refused to give his assent to the Delhi Government's Bill that seeks to exclude the post of parliamentary secretary from the office of profit though petitions were filed with the President seeking his intervention to disqualify 21 AAP MLAs who have been appointed as parliamentary secretar-

ies on grounds that it is in violation of the Constitution as they are occupying the office of profit.

In Delhi, the Bill has to get the consent of the LtGovernor and the President to become a law.

As far as Meghalaya is concerned, the state cabinet recently decided to delete section 5 from The Meghalaya Parliamentary Secretaries (Appointment, Salaries, Allowances and Miscellaneous provisions) Act, 2005 which had equated the rank and status of parliamentary secretaries as that of a minister of state to escape from disqualification as a PIL in this regard is pending in the High Court of Meghalaya.

The Delhi Government

had sought an amendment to the Delhi Members of Legislative Assembly (Removal of Disqualification) Act, 1997. Through the Bill, the AAP government wanted "retrospective" exemption for the parliamentary secretaries from disqualification provisions. The Bill was forwarded by Lt Governor Najeeb Jung to the Centre, which in turn was sent to the President with its comments. After examining the issue, the President has not given his assent to the Bill, official sources said on Monday.

Later, the cabinet approved the Meghalaya Parliamentary Secretaries (Appointment, Salaries, Allowances (and

Miscellaneous provisions) Ordinance, 2016 to help the parliamentary secretaries.

The Ordinance was subsequently sent to the State Governor for approval and till date the Governor is yet to return it.

Sources said that the Governor had sought the opinion of the Advocate General before giving assent to the amended Ordinance. Earlier, Independent legislator Lambok Mylliem, resigned as parliamentary secretary following the media reports regarding MLAs holding dual posts. Sources said that with the new development in Delhi, the Governor may go slow on giving assent to the Ordinance.(Agencies)

non-stop endeavour."

Dhar said his party was concerned over the growth of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), R a s h t r i y a Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), Indigenious People's Front of Tripura, Indigenous Nationalist Party of Tripura and Amara Bangalee in Tripura.

"These are divisive forces and their political work creates division among various communities and ethnic groups, disturbing peace, tranquility and integration among the people," he said.

(Agencies)

port their initiative.

Food adulteration is a serious crime. The shopkeepers that were caught red-handed by KSA volunteers should be punished according to the law of the State, he said.

Meanwhile, the released KSA activists were accorded a warm reception by the Disable Development Association Manipur (DDAM) at their Oinam Sawombung office where local club volunteers and Meira Paibis of Oinam Sawombung and Samurou Awang Leikai were also present.

(Agencies)

Tripura police concerned over attempt to mobilise ex-militants Agartala Jun 14: Tripura police has expressed concern over the attempt by some agencies to lure away some of the surrendered extremists from their settled position for using them for different activities. Superintendent of Police (Special Branch) Arindam Nath on the basis of some intelligence report has warned the surrendered extremists not to fall in trap of any such agent.

He was speaking at an event to mark the inauguration of the vocational training programme for 9th batch of the surrendered extremists in Lachi Camp at Birchandra Manu under Shantirbazar sub-division yesterday.

As many as 38 former extremists, including women, will be given training in different trade.

He said about 70 extremists are still there in Bangladesh. About a half of them are permanently settled there and wives of some of them are in government services. The rest half are likely to come back to normal life shortly, he said.

He said total 1,435 former extremists has received vocational training in different trade and are now efficient. At present all the former extremists are getting a onetime financial help of Rs 1.5 lakh and a proposal has been initiated to increase the amount.

(Agencies)

Trucks stranded on Imphal- Jiriban highway Imphal, Jun 14: Stranded truckers suffered for the fourth day today as the 10-day econo-mic blockade called by tribal organisations continued to halt transportation of goods along the two National Highways considered the lifelines of the land-locked State.

Reports reaching here informed that several Imphal- bound loaded trucks were stuck at Leingangpokpi along the 122 km-long National Highway 37 (Imphal- Jiribam road) which is the second lifeline of Manipur. Several trucks were also stranded along NH-102 (Imphal-Dimapur high-

way).

A number of empty trucks were also stuck at Keithel-manbi along NH-37. Once they get escorted by security forces, they are likely to head for Assam to fetch goods and petroleum products. A Joint Action Committee against AntiTribal Bills kicked off the blockade in all tribal areas of the State from midnight of June 9 to protest against the three Bills passed on August 31 last year. The Government insists that the Bills aim to protect the interests of all indigenous communities of Manipur. However, the tribals think otherwise.

(Agencies)

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15

PAGE 6

Gadkari claims govt. working on 'war footing' Nihalani welcomes verdict 'Udta Punjab', dubs it as towards making roads less accident prone on 'victory of democracy'

New Delhi, June 14: Expressing serious concern over the rising cases of deaths due to road accidents, Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkarion Tuesday announced series of measures undertaken by the government to prevent road mishaps, asserting that initiative to make roads less accident-prone has been taken up on 'war-footing'.

In his appeal to the public, Gadkari asked people to strictly follow rules and not drive on roads after consuming alcohol.

"The number of accidents are on a rise and it is a matter of great concern for us. We are taking swift measures in this regard. We are paying attention to accident spots.

In Himachal Pradesh, we have installed several crash barriers to prevent buses from falling into gorges," he said.

"I have a special request to those who drive to follow the rules. People should not drive after consuming alcohol.

There are black spots on district roads, state highways and national highways, we have started covering up them on war footing," he added.

Gadkari said the government is swiftly working to make changes in the Motor Vehicle's Act and has allocated funds to the tune of Rs. 11, 000 crores to improve condition of roads.

"The committee that we had formed to make changes in the Motor Ve-

Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari hicles Act, has submitted two reports. Once we get the final report we will go to the parliament. I appeal to people to be careful on roads, follow rules. Innocent people dying on roads is very saddening," he said. "The Centre has allocated Rs. 11,000

crores to work on 726 black spots. Ten percent of the funds that we have given the state governments is meant for black spots," he added.

Gadkari had earlier on Thursday launched the report 'Road Accidents in India 2015' in the national

capital. Road accidents have emerged as a major problem globally, and more so in India where almost 5 lakh accidents occurred last year, killing 1,46000 people and leaving thrice the number injured.

With one of the highest motorization growth rate in the world, accompanied by rapid expansion in road network and urbanization over the years, our country is faced with serious impacts on road safety levels. According to the report compiled by the Transport Research Wing, the total number of road accidents increased by 2.5 per cent from 4,89,400 in 2014 to 5,01,423 in 2015.

The total number of persons killed in road acci-

dents increased by 4.6 per cent from 1,39,671 in 2014 to 1,46,133 in 2015.

Road accident injuries have also increased by 1.4 per cent from 4,93,474 in 2014 to 5,00,279 in 2015.

The severity of road accidents, measured in terms of number of persons killed per 100 accidents has increased from 28.5 in 2014 to 29.1 in 2015.

The analysis of road accident data 2015 reveals that about 1,374 accidents and 400 deaths take place every day on Indian roads which further translates into 57 accidents and loss of 17 lives on an average every hour in our country.

About 54.1 per cent of all persons killed in road accidents were in the 15 34 years age group during the year 2015. (ANI)

Obama says 'no clear Orlando shooter appears to be homeevidence' on grown militant: Expert gunman's link to ISIS New Delhi, June 14 : thorities for making

U.S. President Barack Obama Washington, June 14: U.S. President Barack Obama, who will visit Orlando on Thursday to pay his respects to the victims of the country's worst shooting massacre, has said there is no clear evidence that the gay nightclub gunman was directed by the Islamic State to carry out the mass killing.

President Obama after a briefing with law enforcement, counter terrorism and Homeland Security officials yesterday said that even though the gunman had pledged allegiance to the Islamic State while making a 911 call during the attack, there was no clear evidence that he had been part of a wider plot directed by the

terrorist group, reports the New York Times.

Though, the attack is being investigated as a terrorism act and the reason of the attack is yet to be identified, he added. Reportedly, a radio outlet of the IS hailed the attack yesterday and called Omar Mateen (29), who carried out the massacre killing 49 people and wounding several others as "one of the soldiers of the caliphate in America."

Obama said this kind of violence is an example of homegrown terrorism, which comes from extremist information available on the internet and can easily target weak or disturbed individuals.

(ANI)

Kerala trawling ban to be effective from midnight Thiruvananthapuram, June 14: The forty seven days trawling ban in Kerala coast will come into effect from midnight today, during which the Coast Guard, Marine Enforcement, Navy and Coast Police will coordinate and work to ensure fool proof security for traditional fishermen who will be going to sea during the ban period.

The state government will hire fifteen boats for rescue work during the ban period.

The colour code for mechanized boats during the ban period has been made compulsory.

Meanwhile, the state government has directed the civil supplies authorities to ensure free ration for eligible fishermen during the period. (ANI)

Terrorist hideout busted, cache of arms seized in J-K Tral (Jammu and Kashmir), June 14 : In a major blow to the terroristorganisation Hizb-ul-Mujahideen, the Awantipora Police in collaboration with 42RR and 180 BN of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) on Tuesday busted a hideout of Burhan and his associates in Gulshanpora forest area of Jammu and Kashmir's Tral and seized cache of arms and ammu-

nitions from their possession.

The hideout was found deep inside the jungle area, covered by pine forest.

The arms and ammunition that were seized from the hideout include one damaged RS Kenwood, one Ammonium Pouch, two IED boxes, 22 pistol rounds, 46 pikka rounds, and 396 AK rounds. (ANI)

New Delhi Bureau Chief ofThomson Reuters Douglas Busvine on Tuesday said Orlando shooter Omar Mateen appeared to be a homegrown militant, adding that the investigators were not been able to find any evidence of direct contact between him and the international Jihad group.

"He (Omar Mateen) appears to be a homegrown militant. The investigators have not been able to find any evidence of direct contact between him and the international Jihad group, like the Islamic states (IS). He did a call on 911 (emergency number), saying he was undertaking the attack in the name of a number of groups, which suggested his world view may have been a little bit confused.

A home-grown militant with no apparent accomplices, makes it difficult to find him," Busvine said.

Busvine further said the Orlando shooter came to the attention of the au-

some hateful comments and was under investigation for ten months in 2013.

"The investigators were unable to find any evidence of crime and the investigations were dropped. His father has condemned his son's act as a 'terrorist act' and in an interview he apologised to the American people in the run up to the horrific atrocity.

His wife or his ex-wife was mentally unstable and violent. She had to be rescued from that marriage for her safety," he added.

Busvine stated that presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump reacted and monopolised on this and tried to seize the political initiative in the campaign.

"Few months back, he (Trump) said there should be a ban on the Muslim immigration. He has now qualified that statement, saying there should be a ban on immigration of countries that have been associated

New Delhi Bureau Chief ofThomson Reuters Douglas Busvine with terrorist attacks on Facebook pages and it the U.S., Europe and its brings out the nature of allies. So, that is a very the tragedy. A couple that controversial statement. was going to get married The Republican estab- will now be buried," he lishment is backing away said. from that one," he added. Twenty-nine-year-old Busvine also pointed out Mateen opened fire at a that Democrats' presiden- crowd present at a gay tial candidate Hillary nightclub in Orlando in Clinton and her party are Florida earlier on Suntermed it a "gun control day. issue".

He killed 53 people and "Orlando is in mourning. wounded several others We have seen names, before getting killed in a faces pictures, selfies of shootout with the police. people from their (ANI)

Congress rules out Rahul as U.P. CM, to announce name at right time New Delhi, June 14: With growing speculations over the chief ministerial candidate in Uttar Pradesh, the Congress Party has ruled out vice president Rahul Gandhi's name, saying he is a national leader. Newly-appointed party general secretary Ghulam Nabi Azad told that the party would strengthen itself in Uttar Pradesh before declaring a chief ministerial candidate in the key assembly polls early next year.

"Uttar Pradesh chief minister will be announced at the appropriate time. Rahul Gandhi is our national leader and there is no question of him being made a chief minister," said Azad.

"We will project a Congress face before the polls, but only after getting the party

Uttar Pradesh's BJP leaders are making, it stirs controversies, so these are just an attempt to 'build-up' an atmosphere in Uttar Pradesh to divide people on the basis of religion," Azad added.

He further accused the Centre of failing to check those people who are dividing society in the name of religion.

Congress rules out Rahul as U.P. CM, to announce name at right time strengthened in the state," he said when asked about whether Priyanka Gandhi would be leading the charge.

The leader of opposition in the Rajya Sabha, who has been made in-charge of the Uttar Pradesh affairs, said

his party will work to alert people about the forces, which divide them in the name of religion. "In the last one year, we have seen the way Muzaffarnagar incident happened and Mathura and Kairana incidents took place. the kind of statements

"On the other side, they (Centre) is providing them assistance. The Centre is itself involved in a conspiracy of dividing people in the name of religion for the vote bank politics," he added. He further said several parties are involved in polarisation for the sake of votes. "It would be better if they fight elections on their policies and achievements," he added. (ANI)

Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chief Pahlaj Nihalani Mumbai, June 14: Welcoming the Bombay High Court's verdict on the film 'Udta Punjab', Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) chief Pahlaj Nihalanion Tuesday dubbed it as the 'victory of democracy', adding it was not a matter of win or lose.

"Every producer has the right to challenge the CBFC order. We welcome the decision of the Bombay High Court.

Now, it is up to the administration to take a call to challenge it. Be it CBFC or the income tax, one can go to the higher authorities after an order.

This is a right in a democracy. It's not a matter of win or lose; it's the victory of democracy, it's the victory of the producer and I congratulate him," Nihalani told the media here.

The censor board chief, who was earlier called a 'dictator' by co-producer

Anurag Kashyap for bearing down heavily upon the film, said that he acted as per the rule book. "I don't watch films nor do I have the right to watch films. We respect the order," he added while avoiding posers about the topic of drug menace in Punjab.

The Bombay High Court yesterday cleared the release of ' Udta Punjab', whose makers were locked in a dispute with the CBFC. A division bench of the High Court directed the CBFC to certify the film within 48 hours to enable the makers to release it on its schedule date on June 17.

The bench refused to stay its order on a plea made by the CBFC counsel to enable the board to appeal against it in the Supreme Court, saying the filmmakers have already spent a lot on the movie and its promotion and distribution. (ANI)

Sushma extends help to Indian worker trapped 'in limbo' in Oman

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj New Delhi, June 14: External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj has extended her help to an Indian worker trapped in limbo in a hospital of Oman.

"If Doctors permit travel we will contact his family and bring Bikku Prasad back to India. http:// timesofoman.com/article/ 85879/Oman/Health/Un," Sushma said in a tweet taking a note of report in Times of Oman. The leading daily of Oman shared an article reporting about an Indian worker Bikku Prasad.

Bikku, who came to Oman on a visit visa, took up a job without following official procedures. He is now battling for life at a hospital in Muscat without much help. "This is Bikku

Prasad, an Indian worker who came to Oman hoping for a new life. Now, he is clinging to his old one-a man on a ventilator trapped in limbo, he collapsed just three days after getting a job but his papers were under processing. He was on a visit visa for three months before getting a job," the report said.

"Without correct papers, he is also stuck in bureaucratic limbo, with nobody ready to pay his medical bills. Had he come to Oman through proper channels, his hospital treatment would have been covered. Instead, he came on a visit visa and then found a job. He had not received his labour card when he collapsed at work," it added. (ANI)

State finance ministers to meet on GST in Kolkata Kolkata, June 14: The two-day meeting of the committee on Goods and Services Tax (GST) consisting of the Finance Ministers of all the states is set to commence in here on Tues-

day in the presence of Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley. According to reports West Bengal's Finance MinisterAmit Mitra will preside over the meeting.

Mitra, is also the chair-

person of the Special Empowered Committee on GST consisting of Finance ministers of the states.

As per the reports, the meeting will focus on efforts to reach at a con-

Arun Jaitley

sensus GST Bill among the states.

It may be recalled that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, had earlier extended her support to ensure the passage of

the GST bill. Making her stand clear, she said, "I am politically opposed to the BJP government. But it doesn't mean I would block the passage for the propeople bill." (ANI)

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15

PAGE 7

NEIGHBOURS

India, Ghana ink agreement and two MoUs Accra (Ghana), June 14 : India and Ghana have inked an agreement and two memoranda of understandings at the conclusion of bilateral delegation-level talks presided over by President Pranab Mukherjee and his Ghanaian counterpart John Dramani Mahama during the former's twoand-a-half day state visit.

The agreement was on exemption from visa requirement for holders of diplomatic and official passports, while the MOUs were for the establishment of a joint commission and for cooperation between the foreign service institutes of the two countries.

The President of the Republic of India, His Excellency Mr. Pranab Mukherjee, visited Ghana from 12-14 June 2016, at the invitation of the President of the Republic of Ghana, His Excellency Mr. John Dramani Mahama. The President of India was accompanied byHon'ble Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State in the Prime Minister's Office, Government of India, and two Members of Parliament, senior officials, business and media 2. The President of India

was received on his arrival by H.E. Mr. Kwesi Bekoe Amissah-Arthur, Vice-President of the Republic of Ghana, accorded a 21 gun salute, followed by inspection of guard of honour.

The two leaders underlined the need for regular and consistent highlevel interaction, and welcomed the setting up of an institutional framework in the form of Joint Commission to periodically review various aspects of the multidimensional relationship. Both sides agreed that mutually convenient dates for the first meeting of the Joint Commission would be decided through diplomatic channels.

The two leaders expressed satisfaction that bilateral trade and investments have been steadily growing; however, they observed that these were still below the existing potential. India's cumulative investments in Ghana till date have exceeded US$ 1 billion, whereas bilateral trade crossed US$ 3 billion in 2015-16. They acknowledged the need to take up mutually beneficial projects such as joint fertiliser plant with an emphasis on greater

IS leader Al-Baghdadi 'killed in US-led coalition air strike'

Concerned UN calls for 'investigation', 'prosecution' of killings in Bangladesh

Rome, Jun 14: The Islamic State (IS) terrorist group's alleged leader Abu Bakr alBaghdadi has been killed in an air raid in Syria by the USled coalition, reports said on Monday. Baghdadi died in an air strike on IS's stronghold of Raqqa in northern Syria, Iranian state media and pro-government Turkish daily Yenis Safak said, citing IS-affiliated Arabic news agency al-Amaq.

The statement published by Amaq said IS's 'Caliph' Baghdadi had been killed on Sunday, according to the media reports. "Abu Bakr alBaghdadi has been killed by coalition airstrikes on Raqqa on the fifth day of Ramadan," said the statement.

The coalition did not immediately comment on the report. Earlier on Monday, Iraqi TV channel Al-Sumaria said that Baghadi had been wounded on Sunday in a coalition air strike on a location 65 kilometres west of the IS-held city of Mosul. US TV network CNN on Monday cited US defence officials as saying they received credible intelligence that Baghdadi, who has a $25 million bounty on his head, has moved around within the past six months and had travelled to Mosul. (Agencies)

Dhaka, June 14: Expressing concern at the significant increase in murders in Bangladesh, the United Nations today called for investigation and prosecution of the perpetrators of the crimes. "I am very concerned about the dramatic increase in number of brutal murders in Bangladesh that target freethinkers, liberals, re-

India will not join NSG alone: Sartaj Aziz Islamabad, June 14: Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's Adviser on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz has said that the government's "active and successful foreign policy" has blocked India's entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG). He added that New Delhi would not be able to join the group alone.

"We have been successful in preventing India from gaining access to the NSG and I am hopeful that whenever it happens, we will both join it together and India will not be able to join the NSG alone," the Dawn quoted Aziz as saying on Monday during a debate in the Senate on an adjournment motion regarding the agreement signed by India, Iran and Afghanistan for development of the Chabahar Port.

He also said that he had recently approached many countries, including Russia, Mexico, South Korea and New Zealand, to gain their support on Islamabad's viewpoint that there should be a criteria-based approach while deciding about inclusion of any country into the NSG. (ANI)

India, Ghana ink agreement and two MoUs value-addition.

The Ghanaian Government conveyed its deep appreciation towards India's concessional developmental assistance by way of grants and Lines of Credit. In particular, they placed on record their sincere gratitude for India's support for major socio-economic projects such as Komenda Sugar Plant and Elmina Fish Processing Plant.

Further, cementing the

ligious minorities and LGBT activists," Daily Star quoted UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein as saying.

Delivering his address before the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, he urged theinvestigation and prosecution of the perpetrators of these vicious crimes be made a

relationship between the two Foreign Ministries, the Government of India also approved a Line of Credit for setting up a Foreign Policy Training Institute.

The Ghana President conveyed deep appreciation for the successful organisation of the third India-Africa Forum Summit in New Delhi last year, and thanked the Government of India for the warm hospitality extended to him and his

priority with full respect for human rights. "I also urge all government officials, political and religious leaders to unequivocally condemn these attacks on freedom and to do more to protect affected groups," he added.

In an official release from UN in Geneva, the UN High Commissioner

delegation. On his part the Indian President reaffirmed India's commitment to further strengthening the partnership with Africa. He also assured of India's continued contribution towards sustained development of Ghana, and the prosperity of its friendly people.

The Government of Ghana thankfully acknowledged India's contribution to the Capacity Building and Human Resource Development in Ghana. While more than one thousand government officials underwent training in India in the last five years, about a hundred students pursued full-time academic courses in India on full scholarships offered by the Government of India during the same period.

The Government of India, in view of the friendly relations between the two countries, announced an increase in ITEC slots to 300 and ICCR full time scholarships to 40, each year.

Acknowledging that the India-Ghana relations are multi-dimensional and have tremendous potential for further expansion, the Indian Government proposed to establish a

also shed light on the "preventable calamities" and worrying trends in human rights around the world, including concerns about the situation in more than 50 countries. Bangladesh has been witnessing a spate of attacks in recent times.

Militants have killed more than 30 people in the country, including members of religious mi-

Chair on Indian Studies in the prestigious University of Ghana, Accra. It will be funded by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations. The Government of Ghana welcomed this initiative.

International terrorism is a scourge, and is a threat to the entire civilised world. While India has been a victim of crossborder terrorism for a long time, Ghana is situated in an increasingly volatile region. The two leaders, therefore, agreed for greater security and defence cooperation and also called for greater exchanges between the Kofi Annan U.N. Peacekeeping Centre, Accra, and the Centre for U.N. Peacekeeping, New Delhi.

President Mukherjee also appreciated the role played by the vibrant Indian community in Ghana in strengthening the bilateral relationship, and conveyed appreciation for the warmth and friendship given to the Indian Diaspora by the Government and the people of Ghana. The Government of Ghana warmly acknowledged their contribution to the economic development ofGhana. (ANI)

norities, liberal bloggers and academics, since February last year. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has lunched countrywide anti-militancy crackdown in the country to stop a wave of attacks on minorities and activists. As per latest reports, over 3,200 people have been detained by the authorities countrywide. (ANI)

Afghan, Pakistani 'Sri Lanka's future lies on forces clash along good international ties' border, killing three Colombo, Jun 14: Sri betray the nation by al- record with resolutions in Nangarhar, Jun 14: Afghan and Pakistani forces clashed in an escalation of tensions between the neighbouring countries, killing at least three people and forcing the closure of the main border crossing, officials said Tuesday. The fighting erupted along the Torkham border on Sunday night and continued erratically over the next two days, apparently after Afghan forces objected to the construction of a gate on the Pakistani side.

The conflict prompted bitter recriminations on both sides, with Islamabad and Kabul summoning each other`s diplomats to lodge strong formal complaints.

Two Afghan policemen were killed and nine others wounded in gunfights since Sunday, said Mohammad Ayub Hussain Khil, border police chief in eastern Afghanistan.

"The firing continued till 7:00 am (Tuesday). The border is now closed until the tension subsides," he

told. A Pakistani military officer was also killed and 18 others, many of them civilians, were wounded, security officials in the northwestern city of Peshawar said.

The Pakistani military justified the construction of the gate at Torkham, saying "terrorists" were using the busy crossing point. "In order to check movement of terrorists through Torkham, Pakistan is constructing a gate on (our) own side of the border as a necessity to check unwanted and illegal movement," the military said in a statement on Monday.

Torkham is one of the major crossings between Afghanistan and Pakistan, where hundreds of trucks and thousands of people cross the border daily through the Khyber Pass.

The border was closed over similar clashes last month, but was reopened after an understanding was reached between the two countries.

(Agencies)

Afghan and Pakistani forces clashed in an escalation of tensions between the neighbouring countries

Lanka's future and wellbeing lie on good international relations with all countries and reconciliation with Tamils based on good governance, President Maithripala Sirisena has said. "I believe strongly that this country's future lies in

lowing foreign countries to invade and grab this country," Sirisena said, adding that no government has ever pressurised his government on anything.

"There is one common theme in all our interactions and engagements

the UN Human Rights Council for three successive years since 2012. The Rajapaksa government dubbed the resolutions as interference in Sri Lanka's sovereignty.

The UN has estimated that 40,000 people died, many of them civilians, during

Pakistan considering to buy used F-16 jets from Jordan

Pakistan considering to buy used F-16 jets from Jordan Islamabad, June 14: Pakistan is considering an offer to buy sixteen used F-16 jets from Jordan after it was unable to buy eight advanced fighters from the United States because of a financial row. The officials said getting Washington's approval on the deal may not be easy.

"The case for the purchase of F-16s from the US is closed, we are now going for a third party transfer of F-16s and have an offer from Jordan", the Dawn quoted Defence Secretary retired Lt Gen Alam Khattak as saying during told a joint sitting of the Senate committees on defence and foreign affairs.

Pakistan was unable to buy F-16 jets earlier as the U.S. refused to subsidise its purchase.

Pakistan's inability to

procure F-16s, from the U.S. is attributed to strained WashingtonIslamabad ties because of Pakistan's alleged insufficient action against the Taliban, Haqqani network and Lashkar-iTaiba and concerns over the pace of its nuclear programme.

Defece Secretary Khattak , however, admitted that the used Block-30 F-16s being offered by Jordan were not of the same quality and standard as the U.S. counterparts. But Pakistan may immediately need them to replace the Block-15 F-16s currently in PAF's inventory, which are due to be retired in the next couple of years. Pakistan had earlier bought around a dozen F-16s from Jordan in 2014, to modernize its fleet.

(ANI)

Federal Alliance denies receiving formal letter for talks

Federal Alliance denies receiving formal letter for talks Kathmandu, June 14: Federal Alliance, which includes United Democratic Madhesi Front along with many other protesting parties, has said that the government has not corresponded with it for any formal talks.

Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli had said during a public function on Sunday that he had signed on the paper addressed to the alliance urging the agitating parties for formal talks to

address their legitimate demands.

However, Federal Alliance's coordinator Upendra Yadav yesterday told ANI at Khula Manch, where the alliance is staging a relay hunger strike, that they have not received any letter signed by the Prime Minister. He added that he would comment further on this issue only after receiving the letter.

The Federal Alliance is demanding a change in provincial demarcation of the country. (ANI)

Airstrike in Farah kills 25 Taliban militants Sri Lanka's future and well-being lie on good international relations with all countries reconciliation based on good governance policies," he said here last night in a foreign policy lecture.

Sirisena said that he has been able to improve foreign relations in his tenure. "While there was praise, some of our political opponents have been severely critical of our foreign policy. They charge that I am trying to

that Sri Lanka must establish internal democracy, human rights civil and media freedoms," Sirisena said.

Sirisena, in contrast to his predecessor Mahinda Rajapaksa, has followed a policy of close engagement with all nations.

The Rajapaksa administration was criticised by the international community for its human rights

the civil war that lasted nearly three decades. The Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) battled Sri Lankan forces for a separate Tamil homeland. A brutal military crackdown ended the 37-year conflict in 2009. Rights groups claim government forces killed nearly 40,000 civilians in the final months of the brutal ethnic conflict.

(Agencies)

Kabul, June 14: At least 25 Taliban militants were killed and 27 others wounded in an airstrike carried out by the Afghan forces in western Farah province. The airstrike was carried out in Bala Bolok district of Farah, leaving at least 27 more wounded, said a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence (MoD), reports the Khaama Press.

The statement added that four vehicles and seven motorcycles belonging to the militants were also destroyed during the

airstrike. The Taliban group, however, claimed that the airstrike targeted civilians, killing and wounding several women and children.

The MoD said the militants were targeted and that heavy casualties have been incurred during the airstrikes. The Afghan forces have stepped up counter-terrorism operations against the Taliban militants, who are attempting to increase their foothold and carry out insurgency operations as part of their spring offensive. (ANI)

PAGE 8

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15

Capability and Competence Building in Higher Education

Road Safety Growing concern over the road crash problem India has the second largest road network in the world with over 3 million km of roads of which 60% are paved. These roads make a vital contribution to the India's economy. On the whole, the facilities for the road users are not up (Photo: to the mark, leading to a indiatransportportal) high toll of the death victims. Recently, there is a growing concern over the road crash problem. On an average, 17 Indians died every hour in road accidents last year. Unsurprisingly, India tops road accident deaths, with roughly 1.5 lakh Indians dying on the roads in 2015 when total number of accidents crossed the five lakh mark. That is 400 people dying on our roads each day. Delhi, which has more vehicles than Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata put together, reported the highest number of deaths at 1622 due to road accidents among India's top cities during 2015,. In other words, close to five Delhiites died on the roads daily. Tamil Nadu topped the list of all states with most number of accidents at 69,059 or close to 190 accidents a day. 15642 people lost their lives in this one state alone last year or at the rate of almost 43 people every day. As vehicle population multiplies, what are we doing to bring down deaths due to road accidents? Stricter and better implementation of traffic rules is a no-brainer. Of course we need much better implementation of traffic rules, better road design and a vastly improved road usage skills to improve accident rates on our roads. But this is not nearly enough. Though the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has proposed a slew of measures and earmarked a significant budget for reducing road fatalities, what someone needs to tell the government is that it must begin with the basics.

For example, at Auckland in New Zealand, which has a population of just about a million people but has at least 40 officers specifically tasked with thinking up ways to enhance road safety. In the United States, this number is close to 500. In India, it is zero.

We have no nodal body which looks after road safety, which has officers trained specifically to study the safety aspect and suggest ways to enhance safety on India's roads. Instead of making fancy pronouncements on improving road design and asking vehicle makers to install safety equipment (which is a good move), the government needs to first listen to experts and create a mindset about safety. According to "Road Accidents in India 2015" report released by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways last week, roughly every third road user killed in road accidents was on a two wheeler, pedestrians accounted for less than 10% of deaths and cars, taxi, vans and other LVCs together accounted for 17.2% of deaths in 2015. The report acknowledges that information contained in it has been collected from police headquarters of states and union territories through specifically designated nodal officers. Remember, Road Transport and Highways minister Nitin Gadkari has already set himself a goal of reducing road fatalities by 50% by 2020. That is just four years away. Some efforts are being made to emphasise on road safety but have not been successful so far.

Udta Punjab free With just one cut The Bombay High Court has cleared Bollywood film Udta Punjab for release with one cut, a scene that the filmmakers said they had offered in court to delete.

The ruling overturned a controversial suggestion by the censor board seeking 13 cuts to the movie which it had deemed offensive to people's sensibilities and a threat to the country's integrity.

Besides asking the producers to delete a scene which shows the lead character, a drug-addicted rock star played by Shahid Kapoor, urinating in public, the court also ordered modification of a disclaimer by deleting a reference to Pakistan.

The CBFC (Central Board of Film Certification) cannot stop creative people abruptly as it may discourage them. This will kill creativity. These days filmmakers are brutal, direct and straightforward. One need not treat them harshly just because of this. Set against the backdrop of the northern state that goes to the polls early next year, the film has also triggered a political row with the Congress and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) accusing Punjab's ruling BJPShiromani Akali Dali (SAD) of influencing the board's decision. The film is scheduled to be released on June 17. The court said filmmakers should be allowed to choose the backdrop for movies, ruling that the censor board's "exercise of power should not violate the constitutional guarantee of freedom of speech and expression. It overruled the board's demand that the words election, MP, parliament, and party should be cut and said a scene where a character injects himself with drugs could be shown. The film's co-producer Anurag Kashyap, at the centre of the fight against the censor board, hailed the verdict in a tweet.

Censor board chairman Pahlaj Nihalini, facing allegations of following the government's agenda in films, said the CBFC respects the court's verdict but hinted that the ruling could open the floodgates for filmmakers moving courts over its decisions. India's censors have a long history of barring movies and cutting scenes, including those deemed too racy or capable of causing religious offence. The CBFC last year blocked the release of a toned-down version of the erotic Hollywood film "Fifty Shades of Grey" and deemed two James Bond kissing scenes unsuitable for an Indian audience.

The words competence petencies as "general deand capability are gener- scriptions of the abilities ally used without any pre- necessary to perform succise definition in manage- cessfully in a particular job ment literature. Some use or position. Competency these two terms to mean profiles synthesize skills, the same phenomenon. knowledge, attributes and Several examples can be values, and express perforquoted in this respect. The mance requirements or Chartered Society of competencies in behavPhysiotherapy has defined ioral terms. Competency competence as "a general profiles, or core competenoverall capacity that is cies, are used as the basis holistic and rests on con- for defining the requiresensus ments of a Pranjal Bezborah particular view on what conposition stitutes a good practice. and for predicting indiCompetency is the spe- vidual performance in the cific ability that makes up position." According to competence. Competen- Michael D. Brown, a cies are abilities to under- simple definition of comtake specific tasks that re- petency is those capabililate to specific ability." It ties one excels. One can further adds, "Compe- see that competence and tence incorporates the val- capability are used interues and philosophies of changeably in this definithe person and the profes- tion. sion as well as knowledge, Capability is potential specific skills and abili- competence. It is the founties. Competence changes dation for attaining compeand is dependent on the tence but cannot be context in which the indi- equated to competence. vidual works. Compe- Capabilities can be linked tence is dependent upon to the root system from an individual's ability to which competencies could self-evaluate and learn potentially blossom. Comfrom experiences, petencies are considered as whether this is formal or transformed capabilities. informal learning. Main- Just as a right seed requires taining competence is a a proper nurturing environdynamic continuous pro- ment, water, sunlight and cess." fertilizers in order to grow According to Marshall, into a healthy plant, capa"Competencies are char- bilities also require an apacteristics that are caus- propriate environment and ally related to effective additional inputs to grow and superior performance into competencies. To exin a job. This means that emplify the difference bethere is evidence that in- tween capability and comdicates possession of the petence, following case characteristics precedes study is presented. and leads to effective and A Tale of Two Entrepresuperior performance in neurs that job." The NZIM man- A case on "A tale of two agement Capability Index entrepreneurs" has been defines competence, "as developed by Manimala having the requisite or ad- (1993) in which a school equate ability or qualities dropout is able to progress to perform well or to a re- relatively much better in quired standard" and com- business compared to a

well-educated engineerentrepreneur at the same time and at the same industry.

Entrepreneur A: He is an engineer who is considered as ideal candidate to be promoted as an entrepreneur. He received training at an entrepreneurship development institute and a project report from an official agency.

The project was fro fabricating consumer durables using fiber-glass reinforced plastics. The proposed investment was rupees ten lakh. A plot was allotted to him in the industrial estate where he constructed a shed with an office attached to it. Financial institutions sanctioned loans t the unit subject to the condition that the entrepreneur should raise margin money of 20%. The entrepreneur co-opted three other partners who contributed an equal share of the margin money. They installed all the machinery and equipment and appointed ten workers as recommended by the project report. The company started manufacturing fiber-glass based items such as helmets, wash basins, bath tubs, roofing sheets, etc. However, there were no takers and their sales revenues were not enough even to cover its interest burden and within three years the venture collapsed.

Entrepreneur B: He was a school drop-out having no family or other money to invest. He was not eligible for any institutional loans because he was not a matriculate. He worked in a fiber-glass factory for some time and after he acquired the technology, wanted to start up on his own. He initially thought of a partnership option for

Image for representational purpose (Photo: gettingsmart) raising capital, but later abandoned the idea as he could not find any compatible partners. He secured contracts from small chemical companies for providing fiber-glass linings inside their tanks to resist acid and heat corrosion. Since companies gave an advance for materials, he hardly needed any investment. He just hung a name board outside the rented room where he lived. After having established himself in the industrial market, Entrepreneur B wanted to get into the consumer durables business.

He never expected general public to buy fiber-glass furniture from the furniture shops and so he contacted those who were in the business of hiring out furniture for functions and parties for whom strength, light weight and portability were more important than elegance or style.

He got his moulds made by local craftsmen; got model accepted and secured the

order for 500 pieces. His strategy for other products was similar. It gave him an assured market before he started the manufacture and was considerably less expensive. When he wanted a loan for expanding his business he solved the problem of not having matriculation qualification by marrying a matriculate girl and applying for a loan in her name. His business activities grew incrementally. He later started another company for retail sale of materials used for FRP manufacture. This vertical integration strategy assured the availability of materials and also gave him control over small operators who could not afford bulk purchases.

Subsequently he started manufacture of the resins, and ended up with four companies having a total turnover more than 10 million rupees.

This case study explains that the school dropout, Entrepreneur B, cared to

gain competencies before launching himself into business while the engineer-entrepreneur did not care to convert his capabilities into competencies.

Thus, competence building cannot happen without practical on-the-job experience. It is also business specific and cannot be applied over a very wide spectrum of business practices. It evolves with the changes that are happening in the business and economic environment. From the above discussion it becomes evident that competence building requires more than the traditional approach of the higher educational institution. In fact, an institute of higher education is ideally suited to impart capability rather than competence.

Pranjal Bezborah is a Professor in the Department Of Commerce, Dibrugarh University. He can be reached at: pranjalbezborah @yahoo.com

Does Pakistan Have More Nuclear Warheads Than India?

Yes, according to a new analysis by a Stockholm-based think tank.

Pakistan continues to have Shannon Kile, Head of the a slight edge over its SIPRI Nuclear Weapons archrival India in the num- Project. "All the nuclear ber of nuclear warheads, the weapon-possessing states Stockholm International continue to prioritize nuclear Peace Research Institute deterrence as the cornerstone (SIPRI) revealed in its an- of their national security nual nuclear forces data, strategies." which outlines recent trends Neither Pakistan nor India and developments in global are thought to have deployed nuclear arany of their Franz-Stefan Gady n u c l e a r senals.

According warheads, to the data compiled, Paki- but are keeping their nuclear stan allegedly has 110-130 warheads de-mated from the nuclear warheads, whereas actual missiles. Both counIndia possesses 100-120 tries purportedly keep their nuclear warheads. warheads in central storage.

Islamabad and New Delhi India's nuclear warfare policy are both in the process of is centered on a No First-Use expanding their nuclear (NFU) doctrine. Pakistan, weapon arsenals including however, refuses to adopt a missile delivery capabili- NFU doctrine but has indities, the report notes. cated time and again that it "Despite the ongoing re- would hesitate to use nuclear duction in the number of weapons first. weapons, the prospects for As I reported last August, Pagenuine progress towards kistan, within the next ten nuclear disarmament re- years, could possess the main gloomy," comments third-biggest nuclear weap-

ons stockpile in the world, based on a research report compiled by two U.S. think tanks. "Pakistan operates four plutonium production

nually," the study notes.

Pakistan could "have a nuclear arsenal not only twice the size of India's but also larger than those of the

A truck-mounted launch system (TEL) armed with 4 Babur cruise missiles on display at the IDEAS 2008 defence exhibition in Karachi, Pakistan. (Photo: Wikimedia Commons/SyedNaqvi90)

reactors; India operates one. Pakistan has the capability to produce perhaps 20 nuclear warheads annually; India appears to be producing about five warheads an-

United Kingdom, China, and France, giving it the thirdlargest arsenal behind the United States and Russia," last year's report reads.

"Many observers have con-

cluded that Pakistan's rate of fissile material production (and assumed construction of nuclear weapons) gives it the fastest-growing nuclear weapons stockpile."

As mentioned above, one of the principal reasons why Pakistan is outperforming India is because it is dedicating more fissile material to the production of nuclear weapons, according to the 2015 Carnegie Endowment for International Peace/ Stimson Center report: In terms of total stockpiles of plutonium and HEU [highly enriched uranium] for nuclear weapons, India has about 600 kilograms of plutonium, while Pakistan has about 170 kilograms of plutonium and 3.1 metric tons of HEU. Assuming that each nuclear weapon would require five kilograms of plutonium or 15 kilograms of HEU, with existing stockpiles of fissile material India could

Woeful Plight of Cancer Patients

Image for representational purpose (Photo: medicalnewstoday)

Sir, We are appalled to learn from reports of news papers that the case of stomach cancer in Arunachal Pradesh is the highest in the country and that the case of the liver cancer is the second highest in the world, first being China. Further in another state Mizoram of the northeast, case of cancer patient is the highest in the country and all other states of the north east have higher level of cancer cases. The report further suggests quoting world Health Organization's (WHO) statistics that as against the requirement of 45 numbers of tele-therapy machines in the northeastern states, there are only 15 numbers of such machines taking into account the total population of the region. It means, there is a shortage of 30 such machines to treat the cancer patients. As is obvious, some patients can afford to go outside the region for better treatment say to Mumbai or other cities where better amenities are abundant.

Some also come to B. Baruah cancer Institute, Guwahati. But majority of the patients of either Arunachal Pradesh or

those of other hill state cannot go to any place stated above due to sheer penury.

We note with regret that a good Chunk of new generation along with some grownups and aged persons take gutkha, knowing it well that it causes Oral cancer. Incidentally, Tarun Gogoi, the erstwhile Chief-minister announced setting up of a cancer Treatment centre in the adjoining areas of the existing Guwahati Medical College and Hospitals with all the amenities. But during his long 15year tenure the proposed Centre was not materialized. Now, with BJP's government in the Centre and with the new alliance-government led by BJP's Sarbananda Sonowal in Assam, it remains to be seen what initiative the new government undertakes to address this vital problem confronting the cancer patients.

theoretically construct up to 120 weapons, while Pakistan could construct up to 240.

However, India continues to possess the larger stockpile of plutonium, providing it with an edge over its rival: Plutonium is in most respects more desirable than HEU as a material for nuclear weapons, given that less of it is required for an equivalently powerful fission bomb, which makes plutonium warheads lighter and more suitable for delivery by ballistic missile.

The SIPRI report highlights that the overall number of nuclear weapons continues to decline. Nevertheless, the United States and Russiawhich together still possess 93 percent of all nuclear weapons-have launched major modernization programs over the last two years. Courtesy: The Diplomat

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

Letters to the editor and articles should be sent to : The Eastern Today Chowkidingee, Near Sankardeva Hospital Mancotta Road, Dibrugarh786001 (Assam) Ph: 0373-2328944 Yours etc.

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p O

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15

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"Virtual Fence" option for Sonowal for sealing Assam-Bangladesh border Report of a committee constituted by the previous Tarun Gogoi government may make Sonowal's task easier Assam Chief Minister barbed wire fence is not Sarbananda Sonowal has feasible along the riverpromised to seal Assam- ine stretch of the state's Bangladesh border in two border with Bangladesh. years to put an end to 'in- The previous Congress filtration' from the government tabled the neighbouring country. Mr. report on the floor of the Sonowal referred to the Assam Assembly in riverine stretch of this bor- 2014. The eight-member der as the committe m o s t Sushanta Talukdar w a s stretch of headed the land border along this by senior IAS officer international boundary has P.K. Chowdhury. been fenced while most Assam shares 267.30 km of the riverine stretch has of international border remained unprotected. with Bangladesh along A report compiled by a the three districts of committee, which was Dhubri, Karimganj and constituted by the previous Cachar of which 222.711 Tarun Gogoi-led Congress km is the land border and government to examine 44.589 km are riverine and recommend measures border areas. for preventing 'infiltration' The proposed "virtual through the unprotected fence" is basically an riverine areas along electronic surveillance Assam-Bangladesh bor- and communication sysder, may make the task tem comprising of 80 sureasier for the Bharatiya veillance towers Janata Party-led coalition equipped with high resogovernment headed by lution visible wavelength Mr. Sonowal. cameras and infrared The "Committee for Pre- cameras to be set up venting Infiltration along the riverine border.

Through the Unprotected The Technical Sub-ComRiverine Areas in the mittee, which recomAssam-Bangladesh bor- mended setting up of the der", in its report, submit- "virtual fence" estimated ted to the state govern- that the cost of such a sysment in 2013, recom- tem excluding the conmended installation of a struction cost of the tow"virtual fence" after it had ers would be around Rs found that erection of a 190 crore. physical fence such as a The "Virtual fence" will

have microwave sensors to be set up at regular intervals along the riverine border that can detect intruders through volumetric analysis. An electronic network is to be set up connecting the surveillance towers, Border Security Force outposts, Border Outposts (BOP) including the floating BOP and the Central Command and Sub-Command Control rooms.

"Any intrusion or attempted intrusion would trigger off an alarm enabling immediate response from appropriate level. The cameras installed on the surveillance towers, which can be controlled remotely over the network, can in the first instance be used to identify the cause of alarm and if it is due to intruders and not small animals etc, BSF personnel can rush to the spot from the nearest outpost/ surveillance tower/BOP," states the report while explaining the mechanism of the recommended "virtual fence.

The committee also recommended that all the boats and other vessels plying in these areas would have to be electronically tagged and registered with the Inland

Water Transport (IWT) authorities and the riverine traffic would be monitored using radio frequency identification monitoring system for

"Over a period of time the distributaries keep changing their course and new char areas appear which old chars go under water. Even dur-

cult to know which boat/ vessel is Indian as these were not licensed. They further informed that in the event of checking the people it was difficult to

Sarbananda Sonowal has promised to seal Assam-Bangladesh border in two years to put an end to 'infiltration' from the neighbouring country,Bangladesh (Photo: aleqt)

registered vessels.

Dhubri district has total 41.521 km of unprotected and non-feasible gap excluding 8.27 km from Masalabari to Mantrichar which has been fenced. Most of these border areas are either char lands or distributaries of the river Brahmaputra which are open and unfenced.

ing the year as well as during the day the water level keeps changing.

While touring these areas the Committee observed even speedboats had to be steered with great dexterity through the waters, as it is not deep enough in many parts.

BSF authorities informed that though they had radar installed, it was diffi-

identify who was an Indian as they did not carry any identity card or other documents for identification.

Cachar and Karimganj have total 3.068 km of riverine border with Bangladesh.

At the time of compilation of the report by the Committee, there were nearly 2000 mechanically propelled boats plying in the

200 Species Go Extinct Every Day, Why Isn't This A Bigger Concern Yet? One comes across a va- middle man who is sit- the second half of the riety of species of animals ting in Kanpur or Delhi 19th century. Tasmanian on a visit to the pet store. or Lucknow and will tigers were believed to In addition to the various never get caught," says kill livestock and were breeds of dogs and cats Neha Sinha, who works consequently trapped that are made available, with the Bombay Natu- and shot. The Javan tione can find Cockatoos, ral History Society as an ger became extinct in the Finches, Love Birds, expert on conversation 1970s due to over-huntParakeets, Munias, Hill and environmental poli- ing and a loss of habitat.

Mynahs, African Parrots cies. She adds, "It (trad- Excessive poaching, loss and Star Backed Tor- ing in wildlife) is just like of habitat and hunting toises as well. A pair of contraband like cocaine are driving thousands of or heroine other species towards love birds sells for Radhika Jhaveri where you extinction. are selling Now new species, like Rs. 250 each, the African Parrot a very high-value prod- the pangolin, are being can be sold for an amount uct. It is very difficult to hunted. "The trade in anywhere between Rs. root it out because you pangolins and their parts 30,000 - 35,000 and the are talking about big has greatly been due to their use in traditional Star Backed Tortoise can money." fetch around Rs. 1,000 1,500 each. Wildlife Trade is a multimilliondollar industry that has its network spread all over the world.

In India, a wide variety of wild animals are poached and their products traded.

Elephants are poached for ivory; Rhinos for horns; Tigers, Leopards and Lions for their skins, claws, and penises which are in high demand beIn India, a wide variety of wild animals are poached and cause of their alleged their products traded. (In picture: tiger skin on display, value in traditional Chicaught by police officials from poachers) (Photo: 2.bp.blogspot.) nese medicine. Migratory birds like the red crested Poachard and Pintails are Excessive poaching has Chinese medicines, but hunted for sport• mostly led to the extinction of a off-late booming populain the northeastern states number of species; the tions and greater wealth West African Black in China has increased of India.

Wildlife SOS's anti- Rhino being the most re- the demand - pangolin poaching unit, Forest cent to have joined the scales, fetuses, and so on Watch, works through a list of extinct species in are used in medicine, network of informants the year 2011. Some of their meat is considered and agents to uncover the other species that a delicacy and stuffed poaching and trafficking were hunted to extinc- pangolins are even sold include the as souvenirs," says operations in India and tion conducts regular raids Pyrenean Ibex that went Suvidha Bhatnagar of and seizures to recover extinct in 2000. The pas- Wildlife SOS. Wildlife animal products, as well senger pigeon was SOS is famous for its as live animals. Their hunted by farmers as work in rescuing and remost common recoveries they were believed to habilitating the famous during raids include skins, cause harm to their dancing bears. She furbones and other body farms. The Quagga, ther adds, "Laws have parts of animals such as known for its unique been put in place to curb - sloth bears, leopards, stripes, was hunted for the poaching of pangolins pangolins, snakes, moni- its hide by ranchers. Last and the trafficking of tor lizards, turtles, tor- seen in the early 1950s, these animals to countoises, seahorses, fishes, the Caribbean Monk Seal tries where demand is rays, coral, birds and so was declared extinct by high, but the enforcement over hunting in the year of such laws is lax." on.

"It is very problematic be- 2008. The sea mink, In India, various laws try cause it happens through prized for its fur was to stem the growing a very well connected hunted to extinction in trade in wildlife. The

Wildlife Protection Act 1972, is one such. The act promises punishment for hunting, illegal possession and illegal trade in wild animals and their articles/derivatives, altering the boundary of a sanctuary or national park, etc.

The punishment for offences under this Act is non-bailable with a jail term of up to seven years. While trading in Indian wild birds is a punishable offence according to the law, it is curious that it does not extend the same protection to exotic species or non-native birds such as the African Parrot. Hundreds of species are kept caged by the dozens in pet stores to be sold as 'household pets.' The failure of the act to ban such cruel trade in wild birds is a serious handicap in wildlife conservation in India.

The Convention of International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora, otherwise known as CITES, is an international agreement between governments of various nations.

It attempts to regulate the international trade in wildlife. It claims to have accorded protection to over 35,000 species of plants and animals. The Indian Government became a party to CITES in the year 1976. The Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act, 1992 also provides some level of protection to wildlife in India. Under this act, import and export of all species of wild animals and their articles are prohibited. Customs Act, 1962 deals with all cases of violations of EXIM policy including policies that fall under CITES. The United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC) alfurnishes assistance, le-

gal and otherwise, to help solve wildlife related crimes.

However, despite the benefit of having a wide variety of laws that extends protection to a number of species, the conviction rate in India is at a disheartening rate of a mere two percent. Experts in the field say that in most of the cases, the culprit walks free due to lack of evidence. The fact that most of the market for animal products is situated outside the country does not help. It is difficult to implement laws when the purchasing country is not India. "The poorly implemented international ban on pangolin trade and the increasing demand means that poachers are rarely caught, rarely convicted and continue to reap high profits if they are successful, which they most often are," says Ms Bhatnagar.

The efficacy of international treaties such as the CITES is also questionable. Bittu Sahgal, well known wildlife conservationist and the editor of the magazine Sanctuary Asia says, "They (CITES) are mandated to tackle poaching and trade, but the fact is many such organizations have been infiltrated by traders and each meeting is now a battle between those seeking to protect and others seeking to create loopholes in protection texts. A classic example is the Japanese insistence on "research kills" for whales and the Chinese penchant for farmed tigers.

The International Consortium on Combating Wildlife Crime (ICCWC), comprising the CITES Secretariat, INTERPOL, the U.N. Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the World Bank and the

World Customs Organisation (WCO), could have actually curbed poaching and wildlife trade by now, but this is simply low on the global priority." In such a scenario, the only solution is to stop poaching at our end. "A higher rate of conviction is needed, the deterrent is not the amount of punishment but the guarantee of punishment," says Ms Sinha.

India has embarked on a path of growth and development. It has been the constant rallying cry of Prime Minister Modi. The current environment minister Prakash Javdekar has even promised environmental clearances within ten days for mining and other industrial projects. It is widely believed that the neo-liberal model of development adopted by the leaders of our country will bring prosperity. What is forgotten and never mentioned in our developmental discourse is the fact that such development comes at the cost of widespread environmental destruction. Development is not possible without a functioning ecosystem. Such growth is meaningless if our rivers and lakes are polluted and our forests destroyed.

Bittu Sehgal puts it quite succinctly when he says, "The mistake made by our leaders is that they intrinsically believe that India has to first get rich then protect the environment. The truth is the economy is a house of cards that sits on a stable ecological foundation, not the other way round. It will take no more than three or four consecutive droughts, coupled with a flood or two to cause the entire economy to come tumbling down, GDP ambitions and all."

Courtesy: Youth kiawaaz

riverine areas of Dhubri.

"Only 29 of these boats are registered with IWT Directorate between March 2007 and March 2012. There is reluctance on the part of the boat owners to register their boats and the enforcement by IWT Directorate is weak. There is, however, a need that all such boats should be electronically tagged so that they can be monitored from a central tower or towers or control rooms. All such boats accordingly need to be registered by the IWT Directorate within a fixed time. License of boats operating without registration after this period should be cancelled and they should be prevented from plying," recommends the committee.

The committee noted that the patterns of infiltration are different along the land border and along the riverine stretch. "In the land borders, infiltrators mainly use the river routes under the bridges and culverts located along the international border roads. They have also, especially during the night time, sometimes cut the International Barbed Wire fencing to make an entry. In the riverine and

char areas of Dhubri district the infiltration pattern is different. These areas consist of char lands and various channels of the river Brahmaputra.

There are some chars that link both India and Bangladesh like Gashpara, Bhogdhar, A m i n e r c h a r , Barmanpara, Hatichar and Salpara where there is no fencing. Some other chars like Masalabari IB fencing has been put in place. These areas are physically being manned

by BSF. Infiltrators are difficult to be identified as the language, physical features, religion, attire, food habits etc. of the people on both sides are the same and they can infiltrate awaiting an opportunity. Infiltrators also enter India with the help of border smugglers," the report adds.

Assam Home Commissioner L.S. Changson told nezine.com that the State Government had recently taken up the matter of sealing of the AssamBangladesh border with the Central government and the latter has informed that an effective mechanism to plug the gap along the riverine stretch was being worked out. Courtesy: nezine

Why Growing Up In The '90s With Much Lesser Technology Was Better In Some Ways The race for better technol- today's televisions would ogy hasn't slowed down, seem to have a 'slim and trim' nor will it end in future. Ear- body and the former would lier, when there were no ve- seem like someone has hicles, people had to go to stretched its screen from their desired destination by behind. Now, I use the comwalking or riding animals like puter more than the televihorses. Then better technol- sion and I just download ogy came, i.e., the invention stuff like television series, of motorised vehicles which movies and other shows h e l p e d available people in online. But Abhisek Nayak travelling after downfaster and making their life loading them it doesn't feel easy. the same way. It doesn't In earlier days, people had have the excitement which I to talk directly with the used to feel as a kid waiting people without any devices. for my favourite shows.

But then, the invention of In the '90s, when my friends the telephone allowed a per- and I used to propose to girls son to talk to another per- then our first step was to son separated by a long dis- write letters which were tance. Then mobile phones called 'love letters'. But apart came which people can take from innocent boys like us, anywhere with them and talk back then there were stalkto the people they want. ers. Now, there are stalkers They can even send text but most of them are online messages through mobile and can easily see other phones. people's Facebook profiles Media such as newspapers, to know about them. And, radio, television, allow of course, now there are no people to know what's go- 'love letters' either but ing on all over the world. Facebook chat, messages, People were able to get en- WhatsApp, Hike, etc. which tertainment through such have taken the place of love media among other things. letters. There were lots of Then came the internet and challenges and struggles it made the world a very small faced by us as lovers. These place, i.e., it made communi- struggles and challenges cation very, very, and very have reduced now but these easy. struggles, I feel, used to Many new technologies make the relationships have come up, but you might stronger and they had their have noticed that when we own charm. got things easily we lost the Now, we can also shop eagerness of getting those online from websites like things. The excitement for Flipkart, Myntra, Amazon getting those things was etc. Today, shopping is not lessened, the value which a very big deal. I remember things had before has now those days, when I used to diminished because of tech- wander from shop to shop nology. I agree that technol- for watches, shoes, casual ogy has made our life easier T-shirts with my friends and but it has reduced the fun of family. This thing is hard to the hunger of getting things, find in today's life. due to which the respect for Earlier, I had to wait for the what we have has lessened. release of music cassettes of People know that if some- films. The excitement I used thing happens to the things to feel when buying them, I they have, then they can don't think exists in the easily replace them. present time because I can As a '90s kid, I still remem- download or simply listen to ber the days when I was mad the music on the internet about 'Shaktimaan' as it used very easily. Yeah, it is easy to be telecast once a week now. But after getting the and I used to get sad when things easily, after a few it wasn't on its scheduled times, they do not seem to time because of any Parlia- have the value they once ment meeting or cricket had. matches. As a kid, I have So, as we can see, technolspent entire evenings ogy is getting better and watching cartoon shows better but it is also getting like 'Aladdin', 'Duck old very fast. To keep the Tales','TaleSpin', 'Spider- excitement alive we want the man', 'Iron-Man', etc. In technology to constantly those days, I had a televi- improve. What I want to say sion set very different from is that, sometimes, we the ones we have today. If should also try the old those TV sets are compared ways.

Courtesy: with today's sets, then the Youthkiawaaz

BUSINESS

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15

India plans to be power excess in 2016-17 New Delhi, Jun 14: The government is planning to make the country energy surplus with a target of generating 1,178 billion units, leading to a 1.1 per cent overall electricity surplus this fiscal. According to the Load Generation Balance Report (LGBR) for 2016-17, the Centre has set a target of generating 1,178 billion units with overall surplus of 1.1 per cent and peak surplus of 2.6 per cent.

The government used to plan generation with deficit of power in the past in its LGBRs, which are brought out every year to project electricity demand and supply situation. The report covers the month-wise anticipated energy requirement and availability as well as peak demand and

availability for the year against an all India annual generation target. The LGBR is finalised by the Central Electricity Authority and approved by the Power Ministry after detailed discussions with the States/utilities and Central/State/Private generation companies.

Imports from power projects in Bhutan and availability from non-conventional and renewable energy sources in the country are also factored into the report. With the commissioning of these transmission lines, the inter-State and intra-State capabilities of power transfer in the country enhanced considerably.

Rigorous monitoring is being done to add capacity in the 12th plan period.

A generating capacity

7.8% growth to be witness

by India in FY17, led by consumption: DBS

RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan. (Photo: canadianbusiness)

New Delhi, Jun 14: Recovery in the Indian economy is likely to continue and the GDP growth is expected to be higher at 7.8 percent in the current fiscal, although it will be "uneven", propped largely by "strong consumption" and public expenditure, says a DBS report. According to the global financial services firm, doubts remain however on the underlying inconsistencies in the GDP numbers. For the 2015-16 fiscal, the GDP growth has been pegged at 7.6 percent.

"We expect growth to gain momentum in 2016-17 fiscal, with headline real GDP up at 7.8 percent," DBS said in a research note.

Though the JanuaryMarch growth fared better than expected on real GDP and gross value added (GVA) basis, it "masked" underlying weakness in fixed investments and nonagricultural growth, the report added. According to global brokerage firm, the burden of lifting growth is likely to be "uneven" largely led by strong consumption followed by public capex, while private sector investments may improve in October-December quarter onwards. "The upcoming pay commission changes will be additional positive. Rural counterparts are also expected to lend a hand in 2016-17 fis-

cal following a normal monsoon," it added. However, private sector remains subdued on the back of limited benefit from easy monetary policy, weak global demand pressure from stressed balance sheets.

"Early indications of a turnaround in corporate earnings in the first quarter of this year bode well, but it remains to be seen if higher input prices depress margins," the report said, adding that net exports are likely to be flat to slightly negative as firmer global oil prices and consumption demand underpin imports.

The Indian economy expanded by 7.6 percent in 2015-16. The government expects the economy to grow by 7-7.75 percent in the current fiscal. Regarding the Reserve Bank's policy stance, the report said that limited disinflation is expected to narrow the room for further rate cuts.

"Transmission of 150 bps rate cut since January 2015 and provision of liquidity to meet will continue to be a priority for the RBI, until the room to ease further reemerges," DBS said. In its policy review meet on June 7, RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan had kept interest rates intact citing rising inflationary pressure but hinted at a reduction later this year if good monsoon helps ease inflation. (Agencies)

SURPLUS OF ENERGY The government is planning to make the country energy surplus with a target of generating 1,178 billion units, leading to a 1.1 per cent overall electricity surplus this fiscal.

According to the Load Generation Balance Report (LGBR) for 2016-17, the Centre has set a target of generating 1,178 billion units with overall surplus of 1.1 per cent and peak surplus of 2.6 per cent.

The government used to plan generation with deficit of power in the past in its LGBRs, which are brought out every year to project electricity demand and supply situation.

above 16,654.5 mw has been considered in the LGBR for 2016-17.

These measures are expected to help the defi-

cit states reduce their shortfall. Surplus energy is anticipated at 3.3 per cent and 6.9 per cent in the southern and western

The peaking shortages are likely to prevail mainly in the northern, southern and northeastern regions to the tune of 1.6 per cent, 10.0 per cent and 3.8 per cent, respectively. Power shortage was at 2.1 per cent - the lowest level in a single year - during the last financial year.

Among the States where power surplus is anticipated in the current fiscal are: Delhi at 18.6 per cent, Madhya Pradesh at 11.9 per cent, Maharashtra 7.4 per cent and Tamil Nadu at 11.2 per cent, among others.

Northern, eastern and northeastern regions are likely to face energy shortage of 1.8 per cent, 10.3 per cent and 8.3 per cent, respectively. regions, respectively.

Northern, eastern and northeastern regions are likely to face energy shortage of 1.8 per cent,

More dairy items to be launched by Patanjali, enter cattle feed segment Chandigarh, Jun 14: Yoga Guru Ramdev said Patanjali will soon launch more dairy products, cattle feed and natural manure as it is aiming total turnover of Rs 10,000 crore by next year. "We will come out with more dairy products like liquid milk. We shall set up 3-4 dairy projects so that farmers can be empowered and people get commodities unadulterated," Ramdev said here. He said the Patanjali Group would focus on six sectors natural medicine, natural food, natural cosmetics, dairy products, cattle feed and natural manure in a big way. "We will reach a total turnover of Rs 10,000 crore next year," he said.

"We are coming out with cattle feed without any urea in it which will be beneficial for cattle," Ramdev said. He claimed

Yoga Guru Ramdev. (Photo: thehindu) that he had seen feed being given to cattle contains 1-4 per cent urea which made adverse impact on more than 50 per cent of bovine in the country. Yoga Guru further said that Patanjali Group would also roll out natural manure which shall contain micro nutrient, vitamins etc for crops. Ramdev said that

Patanjali group would never roll out unhealthy products in the market. "I will never bring unhealthy items in the market, like meat, liquor, non-veg items which are harmful," he said adding that Patanjali had no plan to make bread. With Patanjali mustard oil advertisement campaign coming under

fire recently, Ramdev said the advertisement has been stopped. "We just had said that oil made through chemical process is unhealthy for people. And our Kacchi Ghani oil was made without any chemical process and it is a healthy product," he said. To a query, he said that Patanjali does not intend to take over any domestic brand. "We are not taking over any brand like Zandu, Dabur, Hamdard etc. We want these companies should grow and these domestic companies should not fight with each other.

Rather they should fight against other international (FMCG) companies," he said. Ramdev said that more than 250 products including flour, medicine, rice are sold on 'no-profit no loss' which helps in rising prices of essential items. (Agencies)

Welspun's renewable energy assets bought by Tata Power Bengaluru, Jun 14: Tata Power has acquired 1,140 MW of renewable energy assets from Welspun Renewable Energy. The price of the transaction is estimated to be in the region of Rs 7000 crore to Rs 9000 crore, sources close to the deal said. In a statement, Tata Power said that its subsidiary Tata Power Renewable Energy Ltd. (TPREL) acquired the assets from Welspun Renewable Energy Pvt. Ltd. (WREPL), a subsidiary of Welspun Energy. This transaction, possibly the biggest in the renewable space in the country, makes TPREL the largest renewable energy company in India with capacity exceeding 2300 MW. The statement said that out of

Anil Sardana, CEO & Managing Director, Tata Power.

(Photo: thehindubusinessline)

WREPL's 1,140 MW of renewables, nearly 1,000 MW of capacity is operational and the balance is under 'advanced stages of implementation.' Of the total, 990 MW constitutes solar power while wind power

made up 150 MW. "This acquisition will enable the company to deliver significant value for all stakeholders as most assets are revenue-generating," said Anil Sardana, CEO & Managing Director, Tata

Sport Edition of A-Class, CLA and GLA in India unveiled by Merc Mumbai, Jun 14: German luxury carmaker MercedesBenz launched special edition variants of A-Class, GLA and CLA in India, priced between Rs 25.95 lakh and Rs 35.26 lakh (ex-showroom Mumbai) to commemorate UEFA Euro Championship, which kicked off in France last week.

"The new Sport Edition of the A-Class, CLA and GLA celebrates the spirit of the UEFA EURO 2016 in India.

This is a celebration of

10.3 per cent and 8.3 per cent, respectively. The peaking shortages are likely to prevail mainly in the northern, southern and northeastern regions to the tune of 1.6 per cent, 10.0 per cent and 3.8 per cent, respectively.

Power shortage was at 2.1 per cent - the lowest level in a single year - during the last financial year.

Among the States where power surplus is anticipated in the current fiscal are: Delhi at 18.6 per cent, Madhya Pradesh at 11.9 per cent, Maharashtra 7.4 per cent and Tamil Nadu at 11.2 per cent, among others. The States where electricity deficit is anticipated are Jammu and Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bihar and Jharkhand, among others.

(Agencies)

UNVEILING THE NEW German luxury carmaker Mercedes- Benz launched special edition variants of A-Class, GLA and CLA in India, priced between Rs 25.95 lakh and Rs 35.26 lakh (ex-showroom Mumbai).

The new Sport Edition of the A-Class, CLA and GLA celebrates the spirit of the UEFA EURO 2016 in India.

The vehicles, which come with sport edition badge and, sport pedals, will be available only for a limited time period until July 10.

The sports edition of A180 is priced at 25.95 lakh while that of A200d is tagged at 26.95 lakh. The CLA 200 is priced at 33.24 lakh, CLA 200d at 34.25 lakh, the GLA 200 at 34.23 lakh and GLA 200d is priced at 35.26 lakh.

our new generation cars which epitomises sportiness, dynamism and agility not only on but also off the field," Mercedes-Benz India Managing Director & CEO Roland Folger said in a statement.

these sporty versions as much as we do," Folger said. The vehicles, which come with sport edition badge and, sport pedals, will be available only for a limited time period until July 10.

With the sport edition the company aims to offer the young population and millennials, as well as all sports enthusiasts an irresistible product to suit their unique lifestyle and taste, he added. "We are confident that our customers will appreciate and adore

The sports edition of A180 is priced at 25.95 lakh while that of A200d is tagged at 26.95 lakh.

The CLA 200 is priced at 33.24 lakh, CLA 200d at 34.25 lakh, the GLA 200 at 34.23 lakh and GLA 200d is priced at 35.26 lakh. (Agencies)

Power. "Tata Power can enhance the value of these assets with its operational experience and financial optimisation," according to him. TPREL currently operates 294 MW of renewable power capacities and 500 MW of renewable assets are being carved out of Tata Power into TPREL through a court process. In addition, about 400 MW of solar and wind power projects are under implementation. JM Financial Institutional Securities Limited acted as exclusive Transaction Advisor to TPREL in the transaction. KPMG India Private Limited was the Accounting & Tax Advisor.

AZB & Partners acted as the Legal Advisor for this transaction. (Agencies)

PAGE 10

Eco-drive's India sale to kick off in Oct.

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: dubaiprnetwork) Pune, Jun 14: Citizen will start selling the world's thinnest lightpowered eco-drive watch, costing about Rs.2 lakh, across the country from October. Called "Citizen eco-drive one" the limited edition watch is being rolled out to celebrate Citizen's 40th anniversary of introducing the first eco-drive watch.

Shunya Shoji, Managing Director, Citizen Watch (India) said: "We are bringing this model to expand our market share in the eco-drive segment."

The analog quartz watch comes with a 2.98 mm case and 1.00 mm movement. It will run 300 days

on a single full charge by successfully reducing energy consumption. It was showcased at Baselworld 2016. Citizen is planning to sell only 800 of the watches worldwide. The flagship model will sport a black dial and will be sold through multi-brand outlets and Citizen's exclusive stores across the country. "The key driver in this design is the material, which is malleable to form a beautiful silhouette that hugs the wrist while being strong enough to resist flexing," Mr. Shoji said. "As a light-power pioneer, we will continue to break boundaries," he said. (Agencies)

Oil prices fall back below $50 as economic concerns rise Singapore, Jun 14: Oil prices fell in early trading, pulled down by rising economic concerns in Asia and a related strengthening in the U.S. dollar, which makes fuel imports for countries using other currencies more expensive. International Brent crude oil futures fell back below $50 per barrel, trading at $49.89 at 0127 GMT, down 65 cents, or 1.29 percent, from their last settlement. U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude was down 78 cents, or over 1.5 percent, at $48.29 a barrel. ANZ bank said that oil was being pulled down by a sharp reduction in risk appetite and a "U.S.-dollar and treasuries rally".

The dollar has recovered some 1.3 percent from June lows against a basket of other leading currencies, pushed by the prospect of a potential hike in U.S. interest rates and by concerns over Asia's economy, which is dragging currencies there. A stronger greenback makes dollar-traded oil imports more expensive for countries using other currencies, potentially hitting demand and weighing on prices. But the main concern in oil market was Asia's darkening economic outlook. Japan's business survey index (BSI) of sentiment at large manufacturers stood at minus 11.1 in April-June, compared with minus 7.9

in January-March, according to a joint survey by the Ministry of Finance and the Economic and Social Research Institute, an arm of the Cabinet Office. There are also worries about growth in China, largely due to industrial overcapacity and spiralling debt. With Asia's economic growth outlook darkening, many oil speculators have sold out of long positions which have been profiting from an almost doubling in crude prices since hitting over decade lows earlier this year. Hedge funds and other big speculators cut their net-long, or bullish, position in U.S. crude this week for the first time in a month, trade data showed on Friday, indicating concern the oil market may not be sustained at $50 a barrel. Despite this, some analysts expect oil demand in Asia and especially China to remain strong. "Against the backdrop of low international oil prices, Chinese crude oil demand will remain well supported this year as demand continues to gain traction from stockpiling activities and refining use," energy consultancy FGE said in its June outlook.

"We expect Chinese crude oil imports to grow by 730,000-760,00 barrels per day this year," it said.

It added that "elevated Chinese crude oil imports will no doubt help to support the global crude oil market".

Coffee Day Enterprise subsidiary 'Sical Logistics' to raise Rs. 100 crore

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: dealsjourney)

ANI New Delhi, Jun 14: Coffee Day Enterprises, which runs coffee chain under brand Cafe Coffee Day, has announced plans to raise Rs. 100 crore through issuance of non convertible debentures (NCDs) on private placement

basis for its subsidiary Sical Logistics. In a BSE filing, Coffee Day Enterprises subsidiary Sical Logistics stated an approved proposal to raise fund of Rs. 100 crore by way of issue of secured nonconvertible debentures on private placement basis. The

company said it will utilize the proceeds of funds raised for redemption of an existing NCDs of Kotak Mahindra Bank. "Kotak Mahindra Bank is the present holder of 12.75 percent secured non convertible debentures of Rs. 100 crore, which is issued by our subsidiary company in 2013 through the IDBI Trusteeship," it said. It further said that the subsidiary company shall utilize the proceeds received out of the fresh issue for redemption of the existing NCDs before the stipulated time. The shares of Coffee Day Enterprises closed at Rs. 255.40, down Rs. 1.6, or 0.62 percent, on June 10. The 52-week high of the share was Rs. 328.00 and the 52-week low was Rs. 219.40.

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15

PAGE 11

India suffer 1-2 defeat against Belgium Golaghat FC in Semis in Hockey Champions Trophy ANI London, June 14 :The Indian men's hockey team suffered their first defeat of the Champions Trophy tournament as they went down 1-2 at the hands of Belgium in their pool encounter on Monday.

Belgium were the first to edge the break through, with a penalty corner in the first minute of the match.Easily negotiated by the defence, that sparked the Indian forward line to life, as they broke away on the counter. Talwinder Singh received the first clearance on the line inside India's half and cut in fast, before laying the ball off to Danish Mujtaba on the left in acres of space.

Danish's cross in was inch perfect too, in the danger area, and it took a sharp deflection off a desperate

Belgium stick, only to go wide.

The closest either team came to break the deadlock was when Simon Gougnard missed an opening goal, putting the ball over the bar after Devinder Walmiki put the forward under pressure. The teams went into the break tied at 0-0.

Belgium started strongly in the second quarter too, and it took another heroic piece of defending, this time from Kothajit, who cleared off the line in the second minute. Sreejesh was called into action for the first time a few minutes later, and pulling off a double save, first off the drag flick and then the rebound to frustrate the Belgians.

Belgium finally broke the deadlock in the 25th

perfectly though, hitting it into the roof of the net first time, to draw India level going into the break.

The third quarter was played on an even note as both teams looked to not concede cheaply and played mostly on the counter. With a minute of the quarter left Belgium regained the lead, Jerome Truyens the scorer.

The game took a physical edge in the final quarter, as India attacked furiously looking for the equaliser.

Crucial saves by Sreejesh in Indian men's hockey team the dying moments, kept India in the game, and gave minute when Alexander pressure in the midfield hope for an equaliser and Hendrickx scored a pen- passed the ball out to a point to keep them at the alty corner to give his team Manpreet on the right side, top end of the table. Belthe lead. It was the first and Manpreet's hard hit gium held on though, to time India had gone down cross was padded out by consign India to their first by a goal in the tourna- Vincent Vanasch in loss of the tournament. ment.

Belgium's goal towards the India will now lock horns With 40 seconds left, India top of the circle. Devinder with South Korea on Tuesequalised. Sunil under Walmiki met that ricochet day.

Cook insists buoyant Corona's late strike fires Mexico into Copa America quarters England `ready` for challenge against Pak ANI London, June 14 : Midfielder Jesus Corona netted a superb decisive goal as Mexico snatched a 1-1 draw against Venezuela to advance to the Copa America Centenario quarter-finals at NRG Stadium in Texas on Tuesday.

Venezuela took the lead first when defender Jose Manuel Velazquez scored a goal in the 10th minute of the match by pouncing on a header from Christian Santos, the Guardian reported.

Alastair Cook ANI Johannesburg, June 14 : After guiding his side to a commanding Test series win against Sri Lanka, England skipper Alastair Cook has admitted that his side are fully ready for the upcoming challenge of facing Pakistan.

Although England failed to complete a whitewash against Lanka, they had already done enough to secure a 2-0 series win following their dominant victories at Leeds and Chester-le-Street.

England have managed to claim Test series victory against every major international teams except Pakistan, who defeated the Cook-led side 1-2 in a three-match series in the UAE in November last year.

Despite that Cook believes that his side have a

great chance to create history in the next month's Test series against Pakistan.

Expressing his views on the Pakistan team, the 31year-old, who recently became the youngest player and first England batsman to reach 10,000run milestone in Tests, admitted that the oppositions have got an extremely good pace attack, which is backed up with good spinners, Sport24 reported.

The opener, however, pointed out that England performed extremely well against Australia at home and therefore, is looking forward to a brilliant series ahead.

England will play four Tests, five ODIs and oneoff T20 match against Pakistan, starting from July 14 at the Lord's.

BCCI conclave to take place on June 24 in Dharamsala ANI New Delhi, June 14 : The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will hold its first working committee meeting under newly appointed president Anurag Thakur in Dharamsala on June 24.

The BCCI is likely to discuss about the appointment of the Indian team's head coach in the meeting.

The board, which invited applications for the head coach's post through its website, had received a total of 57 applications from coaches within India

and overseas by the deadline of June 10.

Former Indian skipper Anil Kumble, former team director Ravi Shastri and current selection panel chairman Sandeep Patil are all in the contention for the post vacated by Zimbabwean Duncan Fletcher after India's 2015 World Cup campaign in Australia.

Besides this, the working committee might also discuss the board's Technical Committee's decision to hold upcoming season's Ranji Trophy games at the neutral venues.

Corona had missed several chances to open his side account before he finally managed to hand Mexico with an equalizer

Mexico in the 84th minute.

Venezuela too had a chance to take a lead once again, but Josef Martinez's bicycle kick was saved by Mexico goalkeeper Jose

de Jesus.

By winning the Group C, Mexico have also avoided a quarter-final clash against tournament favorite Argentina.

Tim Henman picks Djokovic as favourite for Wimbledon this month. He has also notched up a total of 443 win-loss record for the year.

Henman insisted that Djokovic plays with consistency and is the clear favourite for any tournament, but admitted that second-ranked Murray has also separated himself from the rest of the players.

Tim Henman ANI Johannesburg, June 14 : Former world number one Tim Henman has picked top-ranked Novak Djokovic as favourite for the upcoming third major of the season namely,

Wimbledon.

The Serbian defending champion has been in superb form this year, having won all four Grand Slam title after beating Andy Murray in the French Open final earlier

The Brition said that although reunion with former coach Ivan Lendl would work in favour of Murray, he added that this re-enlistment is not going to bother Djokovic.

The Wimbledon is slated to be held from June 27 to July 10.

Sports Reporter Dibrugarh, June 14: Golaghat Football Coaching centre defeated Gosigaon Gobinda Basumatry Football Academy by 2-1 in the quarter final match of the 12th C.K.Sarma Day & Night Football tournament, organised by Dibrugarh District Sports Association at Chowkidingee ground here yesterday.

Striker Imanul Mare of Golaghat FC opened their account in the 54th minute.

In the first half both the teams toiled hard but could not open their account.

Gosigaon player Rifle Narzary equalized the goal in the 67th minute. Rifle received a pass from Binush Iswariya from the right flank and successfully netted the goal.

In the 85th minute due to foul play by Birbal Basumatry of Gosigaon, Golaghat got an opportunity and Imanul Mare successfully kicked the goal.

Both the teams displayed a great attacking and defensive technique in the match. Golaghat FC placed their berth in the semifinal. Altogether, 16 teams participated in the tournament.

India set to play maiden U-17 Futsal World Cup ANI Mumbai, June 14 : India are all set to make their maiden appearance in next month's under-17 Futsal World Cup after being invited by the Association Mundial de Futsal (AMF) to take part in the tournament.

The competition will be held from July 11 to July 20 in Paraguay, with India among one of 12 countries vying to be crowned U-17 Futsal world champions.

India has been drawn in Zone 'A' which pits it against the host nation Paraguay, Catalonia and Kazakhstan while Colombia, Belgium, Brazil and Australia make up the Zone 'B. Argentina, Uruguay, Morocco and Curazo conclude the last Zone 'C'.

Organized by the Futsal Association of India (FAI), the AMF-accredited governing body for Futsal in the country, the U-17 Futsal nationals, will take place in Haryana from June 14 to June 16, which will be a selection process to pick players to represent India at the World Cup. FAI-India Team training camp will be held in Mumbai from June 23 to July 5.

16 State teams will be participating in the aforementioned Nationals. The players competed in state-level competition followed by selection trials through which top 12 players were selected for respective state teams. The nationals to be held in Haryana will

be the final stage of this three phase process for drafting the final FAI India Team.

Commenting on India's participation in the event, AMF president Rolando Juan Alarcon Rios, said, "We are delighted to welcome India as one of the wild card for the upcoming AMF

ing in the upcoming U-17 Futsal World Cup. Ever since the founding of the FAI it has been our constant endeavour to not just grow Futsal in India but to find representation for the country on the sport's global stage. We thank the AMF for extending an

Football Worldcup 2014

Futsal U-17 World Cup. The sporting landscape of India has transformed over the last few years and we see a great opportunity to establish Futsal as among the country's most popular sport. Futsal is an extremely fast-paced sport with a lot of flair and excitement, which we are sure, will strike a chord with the youth.

Since its establishment, the FAI put in a lot of effort in building Futsal into a mainstream sport.

Under its stewardship, the prospects for sport look bright indeed."

FAI founding president Namdev Shirgaonkar said, "We are extremely excited about compet-

invitation to India to compete in one of its marquee tournaments.

Their gesture is a validation of all our efforts. Our immediate focus now is on selections and putting together a strong team that can, hopefully, make a mark in Paraguay next month."

Ahead of the team's trip to Paraguay, FAI will appoint an International Coach for FAI- India Team and on-board sponsors.

The final decision will be taken during the FAI-AGM which will be held on the sidelines of the National Championship in Haryana.

Amla calls on Proteas' top-order to shine against Windies in tri-series ANI Johannesburg, June 14 : Ahead of his side's tri-series clash against West Indies, South Africa opener Hashim Amla has called on the top batting order to take the responsibility for run-scoring rather than leaving the pressure on the lower order to finish the game.

round fixtures with two wins and two losses.

But if the Proteas suffered a defeat in the upcoming match then they will face an uphill task to make it to the tournament final.

South Africa's lower order has failed to contribute in the three matches so far and the former skipper believes it is not up to the tail-end batsIf South Africa manage men to get the team over to claim victory against the line. the Caribbean side, then all the three "As a team we have alsides,including Austra- ways backed ourselves lia, will go into the final for somebody in the top

Hashim Amla six to take it through and bat as deep as possible.

Obviously we are very disappointed after our

last game. We got ourselves into a very good position to win it and we didn't quite take it through. We lost some wickets at crucial times and that cost us. Hopefully we don't make the same mistake in the next game," the former skipper was quoted as saying

by ESPNcricinfo.

In their opening match against West Indies, South Africa lost seven wickets for 28 while in the previous game against Australia, they collapsed from 210 for four to 252 all out.

Amla admitted that it was the responsibility of his side's batsmen to help the team chase down the target and, therefore, called on South Africa to get back to their winning ways.

"We are all extremely hungry to turn it around and get back to winning ways but it's still early in the competition," Amla insisted.

South Africa will play against West Indies at the Warner Park in Basseterre, St Kitts, on Wednesday.

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DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, JUNE 15

ET SPECIAL

PAGE 12

Gist of one year experience of as a Principal Of DHSK College

Dr. Sasi Kanta Saikia Education leads to the development of mankind that is way it is often said that Education is knowledge, knowledge is Power and Power is respect and through respect we gain happiness.

Education is the backbone of a nation. We cannot think of a good society without good education. In order to make a nation through group of wise men are taking some steps for development. From the ancients period itself the people of Dibrugarh are working for the progress as the other place. In the year 1945 it already had laid the bridge to the foundation of higher education

Education in Dibrugarh Dr. Jogiraj Basu was the founder Principal of the college which was later followed by Dr. Lakhi Prasad Dutta. As a result in a short period of time it has gradually developed. But if we look into the present situation of the college we may find that lot of things has been lacking behind. At a time DHSK college was the first college in the un-divided Lakhimpur District, it was also known as "Cotton College" of Upper Assam by many people. In order to make this college as a leading college we have to work hard for its reputation.

The prime vision of this college is to revitualize its educational leadership and transform it from an institution of Higher Education to an Hi-tech institution of higher studies.

We are very sorry to tell you that after 70 glorious years of its establishment we do not have any Master Degree courses at our college, though it was the first college which founded Dibrugarh University. But here is a good news for the people

Traditional Dress Competition at DHSK College

at Dibrugarh. Fistly it was established as Dibrugarh College in the year 1945.

It is one of the oldest college in upper Assam which was established in the year 1945.Later it was renamed by the name of two brothers Hanumanbax and Surajmal Kanoi as they had contributed a lot to the college by which it was named as Hanumanbax Surajmal Kanoi college(DHSK College) .Several educationist such as Dr Jogiraj Basu, Ashwini Charan Choudhury, Dr. Lakhi Prasad Dutta has also contributed a lot for the development of Higher Education. And for the development of Higher

of Dibrugarh, for the first time M.A in English for the year 2016-2017.

19thJune, 2015 is a memorable day for me as I have joined the college as a Principal. I am very glad to tell that many renowned and educationist person like Dr. Jogiraj basu and Dr. Lakhi Prasad Duta have served this duty as Principal of this college.

I have a very good experience in different sectors of my education career and work profile. I started my career as a lecturer of Dispur College, Guwahati in 1994 and served my duty.

After that I joined Dibru College as a lecturer, Dibrugarh for more than

17 years. Than I went to Majuli which is world famous. I worked there as a Principal from 3rd March, 2012 to 18th June, 2015. Working as a Principal for three years I have gained many experiences. After that I joined as a Principal DHSK College, Dibrugarh. But I'm very regret to convey that I had to face many problems in academic, administrative, infrastructure.

For the better up liftment of the college and to make it into a leading college in the entire state I have gathered courage to solve these problems.

Once the people of Dibrugarh are proud enough to have such a college, students from all over the country come to this college to pursue Higher Education. But the flow of students is not seen nowadays, so Who should be blame for this?

Inspite of highly equipped infrastructures the students had to face many problems like shortage of desk and benches, classrooms are not well equipped, broken floor, weak ceiling, un- higenic campus, electricity problem, lack of educational equipments and many more. Due to the insufficient internal road connectivity, in the rainy season the students as well as the teachers had to face many problems including the college auditorium and well equipped seminar hall. There were no better canteen facility for the students and the employees. It cannot go on like this. Someone have to take the initiative and I step forward to work for the college that the students can get a better environment. Certain steps are taken to solve those problems.

The first floor of the Sankardev Conference Hall had been rebuilt and ground floor has been upgraded along with the inner portion of the college auditorium and stage had been rebuilt and decorated. Here, I would like to mention the name of Prof. P.D Goswami, Prof. Mridul Sarma and Prof. Ananta Dutta as they had contributed a lot of service. I'm taking many initiative for the development of this college.

While discussing with the

Plan for making a world class college: The prime vision of the college is to make it into a leading college that will mark its excellence and would place it among the most sought after institutions in the country.

Some of the objectives of this institution are To organise a high standered seminar.

Improvement of the classrooms with all the modern facilities.

Good environment for the employees.

To establish a Gymnastics Centre, Indoor Stadium, Botanical Garden, Production of Fisheries, Create a Pool for good environment.

DHSK College Managing Committee and senior professors with their advice I have worked sincerely for the college. The Girls' Hostel was established in the year 1957. The path to the Girls' Hostel was not in a good condition including the path inside the college premises. The paths are rebuilt with blocks. The plot of the flag hosting point was renovated and decorated.

The main gate and the boundary walls newly coloured. The empty space in front of the main entrance is cleaned and make it look beautiful.

The entire college campus was renovated so that it can give a pleasant feeling to the college family.Teacher's common room, water facilities, electricity is also improved. In the past 70 years in the history of this college, the first Youth Festival in the month of January 2016 was organised at Kanoi College, Dibrugarh under Dibrugarh University.

Same as NCC CAT camp was held at January 2016. It will be a memorable event in the history of Kanoi College.

After discussing with the Department Heads and Library Managing Committee necessary works like New Library with modern facilities will be available. I too have a dream to open a new eLibrary in future in which all the famous books of the world will be available such an old institution that have passed 70 years.

And this process has already been started.

Libary Building has al-

ready been extended.

Therefore 150 pairs of good quality desk benches are newly made. After one month of my joining the front building was renovated with wall colour and floor tiles. All the damaged cellings, floors of buildings are repaired inside the college campus, including the floor of girls common room with tiles.

The students are facing these problems for years and it has been solved within a month after my joining.

Several other problems such as there isn't any play ground in the college of this old institution. Due to the unavailability of a proper playground the students are facing problems in sports and games. In the month of January, 2016 a playground was formed at the back of the college. And the festivals of the college such as N.C.C. Camp, Youth Festival, college Week are held in this field.

And I have a plan to provide a playground with all the modern facilities available in future. And for this plan discussions are held with the Ministry of Youth.

We too have a Publication group to publish book of our own regularly. The prosperity of the college depends on the people sometimes guardian meetings are held to make a coordial relationship and also take advice from them time to time. Advice are taken from the literate persons, the general people of Dibrugarh town and Assam for the welfare of the institution. Due to the exposure of the students several literate persons are

invited to the institution for their advices and well wishing which includes renowned persons like Central Ministers, State Ministers, Literate People, Artist, popular Journalist . So that the students can develop their thinking for their nation and country. Since 15 years Boys 'Hostel which was abounded is repaired and renovated for the further use. Facilities are made for the participants of the N.C.C. camp and Inter College Youth Festival to live in the Boys' Hostel. In 2016-17 initiative are taken to reopen the Boys' Hostel. Of course the Government of Assam are giving a helping hand to it. There is no end to the problems of this institution. Inspite of its insufficient fund of the institution we have been working hard from the beginning. In response to the changing perceptions of needs and expectations

To introduce computers application certificate in the classroom.

A sound environment within the college campus to make a teachers colony, Implement for smart board classrooms.

To make a friendly relationship with nearby different institutions for Cultural, Games and Sports, Seminars, Workshops etc.

To look behind into those eminent persons who work hard for the welfare of the college.

To strengthen the extension education services to the society by relating to expert resource persons of the country.

To make a Research centre, Jogiraj Basu memorial and anthropologicala full-fledged Museum and also to work for the all-round development of the college.

Lastly, I am very grateful to different organisations, Teaching Staff, Employees, Union Body for their kind corporation. classes new building for ICGC is built so that it can be the best coaching center in the entire Assam with best faculties.

Though many talented students joined this college

DHSK College of society, the institution is offering for a range of programmes of study. The new programmes are introduced to have a more practical, technological as well as professional orientation. From time to time coaching classes are also held in the ICGC center.

For the regular coaching

but I feel that due to lack of adequate facilities they are not getting the required environment. I tried to make work culture within the college and as a part of it D.C of Dibrugarh M.S Manivanan falicited five employees named Debaru Bhuyan, Ranjit

Boiragi, Nitul Dutta, Anupam Dutta, Sanjay Baishya, this employees have giving selfless service from morning 5a.m7a.m to the college since inspite of their regular college duties. Along with them Banjit Deka, Krishna Paw, Chandra Gogoi are also giving service to the college for healthy environment.

And for such dedication of them we are getting a sound environment to college. And I'm very greatful for their selfless service.

After joining as a Principal at this college and facing the unending problems a good news is that a student of Dibrugarh University Arts Stream name Miss Dipawali Karmakar is awarded as the best graduate of the college in 2015. And it will spiritually encouraged us to work.

DHSK College: Spreading education since last 71 years The Dibrugarh Hanumanbux Surajmal Kanoi College (DHSK COLLEGE) came into being on the 15th of June, 1945. The college was shifted to the present venue in 1950. On the 29th of December, 1958, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the first Vice President of India, formally inaugurated the present building. The college was accredited by NAAC and has been accorded B++ grade in 2003.

It was a matter of great

pride for the college that Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan, the then Vice-President of India came all the way from Delhi to inaugurate the College. It is interesting to know that the donors of Kanoi College and Dr. LP Dutta, the then Vice-Principal of this Institution of higher Education had a major hand in establishment of Dibrugarh University in 1965. The nucleus of the two nearby Colleges namely DHSK Commerce College and MDK Girls’ College had

also their origin in this College itself. Since establishment, it have served a large number of students from far-fetched areas of upper Assam in their pursuit of higher education. Since then the college has been undergoing a relentless process of growth and today is a premier institute of higher learning in Upper Assam. The aim of the college is to create well trained human resources who will be intellectually, physically and culturally strong and will involve themselves in all round de-

velopment of our country.

At present, DHSK College has seventeen departments having their own infrastructure, faculties and departmental management mechanism. The various departments enjoy substantial autonomy in preparing their own teaching plan, internal assessment system, departmental management and organizing different co-curricular and extra-curricular activities.

Dibrugarh Hanumanbux Surajmal Kanoi College, one of the most presti-

gious educational institutions of upper Assam, has undertaken the noble plan of imparting education to the students of a huge locality extending even beyond Jorhat district following its exemplary reputations of past years. But, in spite of galaxy of brilliant teachers and their untiring efforts to develop the horizon of the mental and intellectual world of the students, the DHSK College teachers’ family intimately feels that the teaching of traditional subjects is not sufficient to the stu-

Editorial Adviser: Subir Bhaumik Indian batsman Manish Pandey

Editor: Ripunjoy Das

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dents in the perspective of newer concepts of higher education. The changing scenario of higher education strongly demands that the students must be able to put his/her education to bring changes in socio-economic fields. In the field of academic development the college has also hold UGC Seminars and Conferences in National and State Level and necessary steps for UGC Financial Aid has been taken to that instant.

Moreover, organizations DHSK College Teaching staff session 1953-54 like PILGRIMAGE, SPIC-MACAY, SOFEC etc. are also going to orPrinted, Published and Owned by NIKH KHOPI and Printed at PEE GEE(India) Ltd., C/O Asomiya Khabar Pulibor, Jorhat-785006 and Published from T.C Borah Building, 1st Floor, Next to Sankardeva Hospital, Mancotta Road, ganize various developChowkidingee Dibrugarh-786001, Assam. Email: editor.easterntoday@gmail.com. For advertisement: advt.easterntoday@gmail.com ment programmes among Tele : Dibrugarh, 0373-2328944, for circulation contact: 8471896580, Telephone & Fax: 0373-2328944. students.