June 17, friday

facebook.com/easterntoday

@easterntoday

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

cmyk

cmyk

www.eastern-today.com

ASSENG/2015/64205

Vol. 1

Issue 369

Dibrugarh, Friday, June 17, 2016

DETERMINED AMIR NOT SCARED OF FACING BACKLASH FROM ENGLAND SPECTATORS

PRESIDENT MUKHERJEE ARRIVES IN NAMIBIA

Forest Officials Seized Two Trucks in Golaghat Golaghat , June 15: A team of Forest Department officials led by Praneswar Das last night seized two trucks carrying sand illegally.

According to sources two trucks were carrying sand from Murphuloni area were coming on NH 39. When the forest team checked the trucks at Thuramukh the truck drivers could not produce necessary documents . Then both the trucks were seized by the Forest Department officials.

(Correspondent)

Meghalaya bus mishap: 25 bodies retrieved from site Shillong, Jun 16 (PTI) The bodies of 25 of the 29 people, who were killed when the bus they were travelling in rolled down a 500-feet deep gorge in Meghalaya's East Jaintia Hills district, have been recovered so far, police said today.

The search operation, involving paramilitary forces, state police and homeguard personnel, had retrieved only seven bodies till last night from the accident site at Sonapur, a senior district police official told PTI. The search and rescue teams retrieved 18 more bodies after beginning the operation again early today and using ropes and iron cutters. The remaining will be retrieved tomorrow, he said.

The Guwahati-bound night bus skidded off the road and fell into the gorge along the NH 44 in Sonapur area at around 10 pm on June 14.

Twenty-nine persons were killed and nine others injured in the accident. The injured were admitted to the nearby health centres and hospital in Shillong.

ET Bureau Guwahati/Sivasagar, June 16

cmyk

Today onwards, from the 15th to the 22th of June 2016, officials and law enforcement representatives of India’s Northeast states are travelling to Myanmar and Bangkok.

The goal of the program is to establish a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) on Providing, Assistance & Protection to Victims of Trafficking in Human Beings

Page - 10

Anjan Dutta, the president of APCC and three times MLA from Amguri LAC passed away at AIIMS in New Delhi at around 7.30 AM of Thursday at which numerous of his well wishers and colleagues became speechless in his birth place. Assam Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) members in Guwahati said Dutta went to South Africa after the Assam assembly elections in April and fell sick on his return. He was initially admitted to the Apollo Hospital in New Delhi and subsequently shifted to the AIIMS. Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi had visited Dutta at the AIIMS. Dutta became the Assam state Congress president in December 2014.

Irrespective of political differences, he was loved by various sections of the society in Sivasagar and had a very good relationship with lots of social organizations and clubs here. Though he was the MLA of Amguri, he had a very soft corner to Sivasagar and had plans and visions for the betterment of his birth place.

Born on 13th of April, 1952 at Gayangaon in Sivasagar town, he was leaned towards the ideology of Congress during his college days and had worked as a sincere and devoted worker of party.

He had gone through very

Arrest of Mahat Chandra Talukdar, Divisional Forest Officer, Dhemaji has created panic among the officers of other department in Dhemaji district.

Nowadays offices are very punctual and staffs are afraid of taking anything from the public, said some people who have experience the unwanted corruption in DTO office.

Congress party workers paying floral tribute to Late Anjan Dutta, President APCC at Rajiv Bhavan in Guwahati. Pic - UB Photos tough times during his days in Congress, yet he had never quit from the party and hence was rightly awarded with the post of APCC’s President. His death had made numerous of his friends and well wishers speechless. Members of various organizations reached his paternal home at Gayangaon soon after knowing the news of his sad demise.

Dutta was the president of Sivasagar district sports association too and the flag of the organization was half downed in honour of him at Peoli Phukan Stadium in Sivasagar town in the

Victim of road accident at NH-37 near Panitola at Tinsukia

between the two countries. The SOP is established in order to address the treatment and the repatriation of human trafficking victims. It will regulated the procedures and ways of providing assistance and protection to victims through a comprehensive approach based on the human rights and focused on the victim, by means of institutional frameworks of cooperation. The objectives are to: Officials are currently

Sarbananda Sonowal led Government for conducting proper enquiry in the entire departments and book the people who are involved in corruption. To attract the attention of the Government, organisation have organised a protest rally on 18th June at Dhemaji district headquarter.

Through the release they have also appealed to the Government for taking proper step to make sure that fund allotted in the district is properly utilised for development.

ET Correspondent Mangaldai June 16

presence of the members.

A condolence meeting was arranged at the Sivasagar Press Club where the club members paid homage to the man who was associated with the same since its establishment.

It may be mentioned that the scribe’s body had been organizing an annual event in memory of Anajali Dutta, the mother of Anjan Dutta since past decade. Various other organizations of Sivasagar town in the likes of Dikhowporia Sanmilit Yuva Sangha, Sivasagar District Weight Lifting Association, Chau Lung Sukapha Indoor

obstruct movement of the driver has become a common catch for the eye.

Contd. on Page 4

Stadium management Committee, District Unit of AASU, Khoj, Tae Kwon Do Association, AKARSU, ASTC employees association, Marwari Panchayat and others express their heartfelt condolence at the death of Anjan Dutta. His last voyage is supposed to be occurred with a huge public procession and will finally end up with cremation at Santiban in Sivasagar town on Friday.

His body is expected to arrive at his paternal house at Gayongaon from Guwahati towards the late night hours of Thursday and will be kept for paying of homage till Friday morning.

To network on a shared approach to combating human trafficking Develop a framework between Law Enforcement and Government Departments across the international borders.

Build strategies for longterm growth and sustainability of the agreement.

Police from Dalgaon PS in Darrang district today arrested a gaonburha ( village head ) on charges of issuing fake birth certificates . Police produced the arrested village head of Darrang bazaar village identified as Sirajul Haque(50) before the court and the court remanded him to judicial custody. Earlier police led by Additional Superintendent of Police (HQ) Darrang Suman Chakraborty carried out the investigation into the matter of fake birth certificates on the basis of a complaint filed in Dalgaon PS by an Additional Deputy Commissioner of Darrang after many birth certificates submitted along with the NRC application as a proof of citizenship by birth were found doubtful . It has

Photo arrested Gaonburha on fake birth certificate been alleged that the fake certificate supplying racket illegally collected a huge sum of money through the corrupt practice of charging am amount of Rs 400 against each

such fake birth certificate .

Police has already registered a case in this connection and further investigations are still on to find out other members of the notorious racket .

Missing Arunachal boy found in Guwahati, returned to family A Staff Reporter Itanagar, June 16

A 10-year-old boy identified as John Doley alias John Tai of Arunachal Pradesh, who was found at Guwahati on March 17 last by one Ritumoni Deka safely returned to the state on June 9 last.

that both winger and auto carry passengers beyond the permissible limits. Forget how passengers are pushed one on the other, at times scenes of passengers seated beside driver in such a manner that it

Today through a press release issued under joint signature of Dhemaji District AASU President, Bhagyaban Doley and General secretary Krishna Ranjan Chutia, stated that the organisation demanded enquiry on massive corruption in all the department of the district to last Government but they did not paid any attention, the corruption is the root of under development even after receiving fund.

Through the release they have appealed to Assam CM

Village head arrested on charges of issuing fake birth certificates

Reportedly, the boy was found near Vishal Mega Mart at Paltan Bazaar, Guwahati on March 17 by Deka, who handed him over to Guwahati Childline for safe custody and proper intervention. He was later sent to Child Welfare Committee, Kamrup, Assam.

When the committee questioned him, John informed that he is from Palin at Kurung Kumey district in Arunachal Pradesh, and said that his father was Tai Tassar.

After a telephonic

conversation with the Guwahati Child Welfare Committee, Arunachal Pradesh State Commission for Women Member Secretary Yame Higio reached Guwahati to rescue the boy on June 9 and brought him to Arunachal State Commission for Child Rights, Itanagar.

However, after proper crossexamination by the Commission, John reveled that his home town is in Gara-line at Miao in Changlang district.

He also informed that his father is Kokil Doley, who is originally from Jonai, Assam and his mother is Chumpi, alias Appi Kyoda.

Accordingly, after proper procedure and verification of the identity of his mother, the Commission handed John over to his mother at the premises of the APSCW.

Officials travelling to fight human trafficking between Indian and Myanmar and to fight for better rights for victims ET Bureau Shillong, June 16

CLIMB IN GOLD PRICE CONTINUES FOR 6TH STRAIGHT DAY

ET Correspondent Dhemaji, June 16

Spl Correspondent Tinsukia, June 16

It may be mentioned here

PAGE 12

Pages- 12

Assam Congress President Anjan Dutta DFO’s arrest creates panic among the government departments passes away at Delhi’s AIIMS hospital

One killed, seven injured in a road accident at Panitola in Tinsukia A 26 year old female, Rupali Baruah died while seven other were seriously injured in a major road accident at national highway 37 near Panitola in Tinsukia district on Thursday morning. According to sources, a speeding winger (AS 23 BC 0648) travelling from Dibrugarh to Tinsukia collided head-on with an auto (AS 23 AC 1587) coming from opposite direction. The injured identified acs Samjhana Chetry, Maina Hazarika, Ajit Burma, Ashok Verma, Poegyan Borah, Dalimi Baruah and Mousami Gogoi have been admitted to a hospital at Dibrugarh.

5.00

Page - 7

Page - 12 ET CAPSULES

Price -

travelling to Naypyidaw, the capital of Myanmar, where they will discuss the SOP. Officials will also have a chance to meet Aung San Suu Kyi in the coming days. The delegates will then travel to Yangon.

The officials will finish the rounds of meeting in Bangkok, Thailand. Impulse NGO Network is grateful to his funders and to both governments for their cooperation in planning and

participating in this crossborder project.

It is particularly thankful to the Global Development Network (GDN) and Government of Japan (MOF) for their funding support.

Global Development Network (GDN) GDN is a public international organization that promotes social science research in developing and transition countries to inform sustainable development policies.

ADMISSION OPEN

(Established U/s 2(f) of UGC Act) MINISTRY OF HRD, UGC, INC, APNC, BCI RECOGNISED REGULAR DIPLOMA & DEGREE PROGRAMMES: ANNUAL FEE PER YEAR

Golden Opportunity for Students who want to pursue career in Medical and become a Doctor

B.N.Y.S. (Bachelor of Naturopathy and Yogic Sciences) is a unique undergraduate medical degree programme combining knowledge of modern medicine and wisdom of traditional medicine. Graduates upon completion of B.N.Y.S. will be offered "Doctors" degree and they are eligible to practice independently.

Auxiliary Nursing Midwifery (A.N.M.)

30,000

B.Sc. in Optometry

35,000

General Nursing Midwifery (G.N.M.)

40,000

B.Sc. in Radiology and Imaging Tech.

35,000

Bachelor of Naturopathy & Yogic Sc.

60,000

B.P.T.

35,000

P.G. Diploma in Yoga Therapy

25,000

B.Sc. in Biotechnology

20,000

Diploma in Yoga Therapy

20,000

B.B.A.

15,000

Certificate Course in Yoga & Naturopathy

10,000

B.Com.

10,000

B.Sc. Yoga Science

25,000

M.B.A.

40,000

Diploma in Medical Lab Technology

25,000

B.Tech. in Civil Engineering

45,000

B.Sc. in Medical Lab Technology

35,000

Lateral Entry in B.Tech. (Civil Engg.)

45,000

Lateral Entry in B.Sc. (M.L.T.)

35,000

LL.B.

30,000

FOR ADMISSION CALL NOW: 7085983978, 7085983991 OR VISIT www.igtamsu.ac.in

Hostel For Girls Fee Rs.60, 000 Per Year Stipend provided by Govt. of India and Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh

cmyk

PAGE 6

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 17

PAGE 2 ASTRO FOR YOU Aries Just grab any chance you get to demonstrate your expressive abilities, as it will fetch widespread appreciation. Something about your children may make you proud. However, don't neglect the aged members of your family.

Taurus This day, your heart is likely to rule your head. You will be driven by your moods feelings and sentiments. Most of the decisions will be based on your emotions, instead of your reason and experience. You are not to allow your emotionality to enter your professional activities. On no account should you be hasty or impulsive. As far as possible do not allow your feelings to interfere in your plans and decisions.

Gemini If you have children, they will be a pampered lot today. Your affection, however, may not have its desired impact. Children are known to be unpredictable, but keep an eye on their activities, especially today. You may entertain your loved ones with a sumptuous dinner tonight. Your creative side will do well for itself.

Cancer Your career will reach a decisive moment. You can expect a transfer, promotion or pay hike. Alongside your responsibilities will also increase. A chance of new job is also indicated. You can reject a tempting job offer.

Leo Friendships are supposed to last forever. But it all depends on whether or not the friend is around when most needed. Today, your pals may turn to you for help, and sure enough, you will be there to extend all the support you can. Get ready to make new acquaintances today, some of whom may go on to become life-long friends. You will be visiting a pleasant new place made doubly nice because of the friendly people there.

Virgo You are the banner carrier for those around you today, giving hope and inspiring. Clad yourself in robes of the perfect family man. This should spread warmth and love, and will work wonders in improving relationships.

Digboi MLA takes measure against gambling in Digboi ET Correspondent Digboi, June 16: Suren Phukon the newly elected MLA of Digboi with progressive mindset has reportedly taken various steps to ensure that the historic oil City of Digboi is free from the evil clutches of various illegal and antisocial activities being carried out unabated throughout the nook and corner of Digboi in Tinsukia District.

According to sources, Mr. Phukon soon after assuming the office of MLA in his home constituency has put a blanket ban on gambling of double digit, also

locally known as Double Guti which according to him has been the cause of several related menaces including household unrest, domestic violence, theft, bankruptcy and above all spoiling the younger generation with its addiction and misused and abused of hard earned.

However, the initiatives of the local MLA and unofficial seemingly stern and uncompromising attitude towards the same, crisis crops in among the gamblers and those among the engaged local youths in the trade to meet their both end

meets.

However, the efforts and firm steps of the newly elected BJP MLA of Digboi has been lauded widely, the apprehension still persists when he would initiate a similar steps against the sale of liquor illegally which has gripped the entire town from all sides of its geography. Unfortunately, the sale of illegal country made liquor is being carried out openly and on a large scale which has rather encouraged others too to open up the venture thus growing and flourish-

ing in an alarming state.

In the meantime, talking to the Eastern Today this evening, an active BJP worker told that an agenda of various activities has been already prepared to curb similar menaces and counter other problems in the town which has infected the daily life of the people of the oilcity.

According to him, the MLA of the said constituency was very much concerned about sending and escalating the positive picturesque of Digboi which is known across the globe on various fronts.

Libra Call it two sides of the same coin, but today, you shall have the uncanny desire to be your own master and servant. But this day is all set to be animated and eventful and full of life.

Expect a few run-ins with the opposite sex, as you are bound to attract quite a few of them, mainly because of your killer good looks. Hitting the gym pays its dividends.

Scorpio You may find yourself sulking in your shell today. One event or another may lead you to shut out work. Hindsight and bitterness will not lead you anywhere, so you must steer clear of negativity. Soul searching and inner cleansing may best be complimented with meditation and yoga.

Sagittarius A nice, easy and pleasant day is on the cards. Your professional approach will bring you much appreciation, especially in the way you handle complicated problems. The way you balance people's opinions will help you make many friends.

Capricorn Recognition and rewards are awaiting you at work, and unlike in most cases, colleagues won't be envious of your success. They will, in fact, provide the much-needed motivation for taking up new and challenging projects. For those of you looking to switch jobs, wait awhile, this may not be the right time. You will be showered with better job opportunities, but it will be wise of you to wait till you strike the right deal.

Aquarius Today, you social butterflies will set hearts fluttering! Also, whatever you have been working on will reach completion now. You do have a great vision, but you're lost when it comes to executing your plans. You might achieve success if only you are a little more practical!

Pisces Being a friend in need is what today will be about. Making new acquaintances and associations is also on the cards. Try not to let jealousy mar your better judgment while you are at it.

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 17-6-16 (FRIDAY) 5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti (Devotional Songs) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-30 A.M-Bidyarthir Anusthan 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali (Assamese Modern Songs) 8-30 A.M-North East News Bulletin in English 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi (Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-05 A.M- Antara (Composite Programme of Hindi Film Songs) 10-00 A.M (FM)-Chalo Riyo (A Countdown Programme to Olympics,2016) 12-05 P.M- Live Phone in Surar Satsori 1-10 P.M-Troops Programme 2-30 P.M-Western Music 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishmi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 4-45 P.M-News for Arunachal Pradesh 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 6-15 P.M-Ganya Raijor Anusthan (Rural Programme) 7-15 P.M-Chah Sramikar Asor (Tea Garden Programme Programme) 8-00 P.M-Live Phone In Programme-"Brahmaputra Swasthya Sewa"(Sponsored by BDHL) Sd-/H.O.P

Meritorious students who shone during the Oil India Super 30 project being felicitated at Jorhat Press Club.

Pic - Nekib Ahmed

Governor condole the death of the father of Dr. Mahendra Singh

International Yoga Day to be held at Bajali

A Staff Reporter Guwahati, June 16: Hon'ble Governor of Assam, Shri P B Acharya expressed his deepest sympathy for the loss of lives in a tragic bus accident at Meghalaya.

A Staff Reporter Guwahati, June 16: Hon'ble Governor of Assam, Shri P B Acharya expressed his grief over the death of the father of Dr. Mahendra Singh. Dr. Mahendra Singh is incharge of the BJP in Assam.

A Correspondent Bajali, June 16: Keeping in pace with the rising depression cases specially among youth, the International Yoga Day would be observed at Bhagawati Kshetra of Pathsala. The sole motive of such gala

The bus was coming from Silchar to Guwahati on the night of 14th June 2016 when the mishap took place.

The Governor expressed his profound grief and said his prayers are with the deceased families.

The Governor added, " At this tragic hour, I express my sincere condolences to you and all members of your family and I pray for the peace of the departed soul."

The message of condolence has been sent by email.

Governor convey his sympathy for the tragic bus accident at Meghalaya

Felicitation programme for meritorious Students held at Demow ET Correspondent Demow, June 16: A felicitation programme near Demow in Kasamari was organized by Kasamari Regonal Student Unit at 2No. Kasamari LP School today where twenty students of 1st division in the HSLC and HS examination 2016 were felicitated.

A general meeting was also organized which was presided over by Lakhiram Kurmi, old citizen of

Kasamari. The student was felicitated with tree plants, valuable gifts and certificates each.

Adritra Sharma, District Secretary of Education (AASU) and Humen Gogoi General Secretary of Demow Regional Student Union delivered valuable speech for the students. Many member of Demow Regional Union were also present in the meeting.

event is to defeat the rising depression cases.

An Anti-Drugs Campaign would also be held on the occasion. The people of the greater Bajali area are urged to join the Yoga programme on the date at 5.15 pm.

Governor Felicitates HSLC Position Holders A Staff Reporter Guwahati, June 16: Hon'ble Governor of Assam, Shri P B Acharya felicitated the Top 10 Position Holders of HSLC Exam, 2016 at a felicitation function held at the Durbar Hall of Raj Bhawan, Guwahati today. The Governor while addressing the function said that the mantra of the day should be "Achievers should be givers". The Governor said that seeing the young students reminds him of the day he passed out his matriculation exams from a small village in Karnataka. He lauded the achievement made by the students and calls upon them to be empowered by education with skill. As India has lot of potential, he said the young generations are the agents to bring progress to the nation.

The students were felicitated with a traditional gamocha, appreciation let-

ter, a book of some great personality along with a pen. The Principal/ Head of the Institutes were also felicitated with a gamocha and a Certificate. At the beginning of the felicitation function, the welcome address was delivered by Shri.

Ajay Tiwari, IAS, Commissioner & Secretary to the Governor. A short speech by the Top three students were also delivered during the function.

This is the second year the felicitation programme has taken place at Raj Bhawan which was started mainly due to the initiative taken by the Hon'ble Governor Shri.

P.B Acharya.

The top three position holders of Assam High Madrassa exam 2016 were also felicitated. After the programme, lunch was served to all the participants of the felicitation programme.

Governor condoles the death of Anjan Dutta A Staff Reporter Guwahati, June 16: Hon'ble Governor of Assam, Shri P B Acharya expressed his sincere condolences on the death of state Public leader Shri. Anjan Dutta. Shri.

Dutta who was the Assam Pradesh Congress Committee President passed away on Thursday morning at AIIMS Hospital in Delhi. Dutta has served as the MLA of the Amguri Constituency in Assam for three times and also as the Minister for Transport in the State.

The Governor prayed for the peace of the departed soul and expresses his condolences to the bereaved family.

Golaghat District Congress Mourns Demise of Anjan Dutta ET Correspondent Golaghat, June 16: The sudden demise of Assam Pradesh Congress Committee Anjan Dutta is deeply mourned by Golaghat District Congress Committee . Today after receiving the news of Anjan Dutta 's demise Golaghat District Congress Committee organised a condolence meeting at its office in Golaghat . The meeting was presided over by Golaghat District Congress Committee President Dr Ajit Baruah where all the party men deeply mourned the demise of the senior Congress leader and expressed grief to the family of the departed . The District Congress also decided to half hoist the Party Flag for the next 11 days as a mark of respect to the departed leader .

Civic Action Programme at DAB Area ET Correspondent Golaghat , June 16: The 142 Battalion of Central Reserve Police Force had recently completed a series of works at 'C' Sector DAB Area in Uriamghat of Assam - Nagaland Border . The CRPF 142 Battalion under its Civic Action Programme for the year 2015-16 had constructed concrete toilet, bathroom and safety tank with running water facility at an estimated amount of one lakh ten thousand and handed over it to the Headmaster of Rengma Simanta High School at Uriamghat by the Commanding Officer of 142 Bn , P. Kharmujai, Second in Command . Several senior officials and jawans of 142 Battalion of CRPF along with students and teachers of Rengma Simanta School were present in the occasion.

The admission for the session 2016-17 has been rescheduled as: Class

186 Bn of CRPF distributed Water Filter among the villagers of Bordhumsa in Assam-Arunachal Border area. ZPM Mrs Tongko Singhpho was the chief guest on this occasion. Commdandant Anil Minj, Deputy Comdt Thomas Vargese, Company Commander Suraj Yadav, SMO Dr Lambodar Patri alonwith many dignatories were present on this occasion. Pix and Text - Dinesh Goyal.

Previous Date of Admission

Rescheduled Date of Admission

H.S. 1st Year

21-06-2016

24-06-2016

B. Com 1st Sem. (Day Shift)

20-06-2016

23-06-2016

B.Com 1st Sem. (Morning Shift)

21-06-2016

24-06-2016

Sd/- Principal D. H. S. K. Commerce College, Dibrugarh

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 17

PAGE 3

Contractor appeals for true implemen- Ering inaugurates tation of APDBEP(IDP) Act 2015 NSS camp at Berung

Maksam Tayeng Pasighat, June 16: While showing resentment over permission being granted to Assam registered firms to participate in the tender and bidding process for a project at Ruksin Sub-Division under Rural Work Division, Pasighat, the East Siang Registered Contractors Association (ESRCA) in a statement has appealed the concern authorities for true implementation of the Arunachal Pradesh District Based Entrepreneurs and

Professionals (Incentives, Development and Promotional) Act 2015.

The association said that, the department concern of RWD, Pasighat here has allowed Assam registered firms to participate in the bidding process which is a complete violation of the APDBEP(IDP) Act 2015.

According to the Act, such other firms can participate only in the project work of Ten Crore above, added the association who also met the

Chief Engineer at Itanagar today and discussed upon the matter. And on the part of CE, WRD, Itanagar, he assured for proper implementation of the Act while terming the inclusion of Assam registered firms as against the Act. Meanwhile, when contacted to Executive Engineer, RWD, Pasighat over the resentment raised by the (ESRCA), Er. Mugling Tayeng informed that, two firms registered in Assam

but proprietors having domicile in East Siang are participating in the bidding. “I don’t find wrong in letting these firms to participate in the bidding process as the firms owners are very much resident of East Siang. Before registration of contractors started here in the state around decade and half ago, the Arunachal firms were also being registered at Assam. And denial of those firms owned by our local people would be a kind of injustice to them”, reasoned

Tayeng. However, the VAT of those firms has to be paid here in the district, but am cross verifying the feasibly, added the officer.

For over all welfare of the district based firms, for which the Act was passed by the state government, the proper implementation of the Act is need of the hour and department or officer concerns need to cross verify the guidelines before entertaining such firms from other state to participate.

Fund drive movement of ABK E/ Siang for Mega Solung intensifies Spl Correspondent Pasighat, June 16: The fund drive movement for Golden Jubilee Celebration of CSFCC, Pasighat has intensified with massive selling of lottery/ gift coupon to generate adequate funds for smooth and successful conduct of the Mega Solung Festival Celebration which is an identity of Adis.

As a part of promotion to upcoming Mega Solung and to sell the Gift Coupon for fund generation in a single venue, a Centre was opened this evening at main market, near Gandhi Chowk by one Tangiat Taggu, BJP, City President, in the presence of ABK East Siang President Okom Yosung and his team, AdiSU apex and East Siang Unit. While lauding the effort of ABK East Siang for fund generation, Taggu while cutting the ribbon of opening the center said that, the fund is the main backbone to make any

ET Bureau Pasighat, June 16: "The spirit to do something for the society should be inculcated in each student and the NSS camp is very good platform for them", said Ninong Ering, MP. He was speaking on the occasion of one week Special NSS Camp at Berung village organized by NSS unit of College of Horticulture and Forestry(CHF), CAU, Pasighat. The motto of the camp is 'Youth for Smart Farming'. Dr. AK Pandey, Dean, CHF, Sri Kamin Darang, ASM, Shri Naveen Taki, GPC, Sri Belem Dai HGB, students and villagers attended the camp.

The college has selected the most suitable village for the camp as most of villagers of Berung are farmers and indulge in lot agricultural activities, said Ninong Ering.

This will be learning experience for the villagers at the same time the students

programme or celebration successful. Taggu appealed each and every Adis including non-Adis living in and

around Pasighat to buy the gift coupon as a support to the Solung Festival.

While, Okom Yosung and his

ABK East Siang looking after the gift coupon sell is extensively touring around in Adi dominated areas to ensure

fund generation out of the sale.

Yosung informed that, his team is touring Roing, Tezu and Namsai from tomorrow.

will also be enlightened of many practical issues. The old traditional farming which is prevalent in the area should be replaced by scientific and modern technologies so that productivity is increased and more areas are brought under cultivation. This will make the people self reliant and bring economic upliftment. The students who have passed out from CHF are doing well in their respective fields which indicates the quality of education imparted in the CHF. He hoped that the camp will fruitful for all.

Dr. AK Pandey said that we have the tradition of working unitedly for community development. So all should develop social responsibility and work for future security and social upliftment.

The students should also develop analytic attitude and visionary ideas and involve practically to inspire

and attract others. Dr. KS Tomar, Program Coordinator informed that around 65 students of B.Sc Horti & Forestry 1st and 2nd year are participating in the camp. NSS is a noncredit course for 2 years.

Tomar also informed that in the camp various activities like free health checkup, mass cleanliness drive, street play on education, whitewashing of public places, training on fish farming, mushroom cultivation, mass plantation, training on value addition of fruits and vegetables, shramdan, pig production and bird rearing, yoga, awareness on pest management and diseases of crops and government schemes and soft loans for farmers etc will be taken up.

NSS volunteers and Kamin Darang also spoke on the occasion. Earlier tree saplings were distributes to the villagers for plantation.

Kaling Doruk elected as new PMC chief

Student’s organiza- AJYCP and SUMA to jointly organise Rabha tions seize marijuana Divas at Itanagar

Sushanta Roy Diphu June 16: A marijuana supply chain of Diphu was busted yesterday by the activists of All Karbi Anglong Students and Karbi Union (AKASKU) and the Diphu unit of the All Assam Student’s Union (AASU). The team of students seized half-aKG of marijuana from a peddler who was later identified as Umesh Das (70), the contraband ar-

ticle was seized from his residence of Birla Gate locality.

Bey Arong one of the student activist revealed that the main supplier of marijuana in Diphu is one Ranjit Singh who smuggles it from Lumding; the consignment is then distributed among the peddlers by a 45 years old man named Srimoto Suhani.

The joint operation was

carried out at around 6.30 PM. The seized marijuana was later handed over to the Diphu Police Station.

The student’s organizations claimed that marijuana addiction among young students is affecting their studies leading to the poor performance in school leaving examination. The organizations have vowed to sweep the district clean of illegal activities.

A Staff Reporter Itanagar, June 16: Asom Jatiyatabadi Yuba-Chatra Parishad (AJYCP), Biswanath District Committee and Students Union Movement of Arunachal Pradesh (SUMA) in association with Kristi Kendra and Naharlagun, Itanagar to jointly organising Rabha Divas in the memory of revolutionary figure, writer

and great classical icon of Assam Kalaguru Bishnu Prasad Rabha on 19th June at Siddhartha Hall, Itanagar with a day-long programme from 10.00 am onwards, informed Kristi Kendra in a press release.

The Joint Celebration Committee cordially invited one and all to be part of the grand occasion on 19th June.

ET Bureau Pasighat, June 16: After removal of Denong Tamuk as Chief Councillor of Pasighat Municipal Council (PMC) through a no-confidence motion on April-28 last, the PMC today elected Kaling Doruk as their new

chief.

Two candidates, namely Kaling Doruk (BJP)from Ward No-5 and Kangge Moyong (BJP) from Ward No-12 filed their nomination which were found valid on scrutiny by the Presiding Officer cum Magistrate

Bani Lego. Voting was conducted by the Presiding Officer. 07 (Seven) votes were casted in favour of Kaling Doruk and 05 (Five) votes were secured by Kangge Moyong. Bani Lego declared Kaling Doruk as Chief Councillor.

Boro Medium schools are almost dying due to Assam rifles the alleged negligence of authority concerned organises workshop Shambhu Boro Tezpur, June 16 : More than 112 Boro medium schools in Sonitpur district are almost in a dying condition due to the severe shortage of infrastructure as well as teachers due to the apathetic attitude of the Assam Government’s concerned department. Not only is there a severe shortage of teachers, but the schools also lack the muchneeded facilities like desks and benches, buildings and an unhygienic atmosphere prevails within most of these schools.

It is tragic that even in the 21st century, safe drinking water, toilet facility, well-equipped classrooms, teaching-learning materials (TLM), playing aids, library, kitchen room for the mid-day meal etc., are still a far cry in Boro medium schools, particularly at the elementary level and in some venture schools of ME & High section.

The latest development is that many schools now don’t have a single teacher as after the retirement of many teachers, new teachers have not been recruited. It may be mentioned here that many Boro-medium

schools were single-teacher schools and the non-recruitment of new teachers have left the students high and dry.

Highlighting the latest development in this regard, social worker and an office bearer of Msiamari Anchalick Boro Sahitya Sabha, Hitesh Narzary said that many of the Boro medium schools in the district have been closed down already due to the non-appointment of sufficient teachers. “The Boro medium section in Misamari ME School (Provincialized) was introduced in the year 1984 under the BEEO, Dhekiajuli/ DEEO, Sonitpur where two teachers against the post of the subject Hindi and Assamese 3rd language in the year 1989, who were allegedly posted to other school recently on promotion which are yet to be filled up. For this reason the school is facing a tough situation in giving education to the children.” He alleged adding because of it the Boro Medium section of the school is running with a single teacher. Expressing grave concern over the matter, Narzary also said that

it is matter of regret that the thirty two years old Boro Medium Section of the school is severely deprived off teachers as per the Pupil Teacher Ration (PTR) norms under the right to education (RTE-2005) act thereby hurting the students studying in Boro Medium Schools which is nothing but a violation of human rights.

“We now for the greater interest of the survival of the Boro Medium section in this school besides survival of the Boro language have appointed few Boro Medium teachers with a minimum honourarium voluntarily donated by a section socially dedicated people of the area.” He said and said that amidst a number of obstacles the people struggling for the survival of the Boro medium schools in the district are optimistic enough that the new government would address all these burning issue of the Boro society. Moreover, echoing the same with a total displeasure the office bearers of the Bahbari Anchalick Boro Sahitya Sabha said disclosed that the parents of the students

of greater area have been an awkward situation over the last many years as in the area many schools including Purani Ghatwa LP School, Swahid Ratan Kochari LP School and Garakhia Pukhuri LP School have been running with a single teacher. “However, though we repeatedly urged upon the authority concerned through a number of representation to provide more teachers to these schools, our demands are yet to attract their attention.” They alleged. On the otherhand, describing how the concerned department is apathetic towards the Boromedium schools, people of the Batachipur area under Dhekiajuli LAC said that children of the area have been deprived off getting their education most of the schools in the area closed because of the said schools have been requisitioned by the security forces in the name of ensuring security in the area. “We appeal the Ministry of Human Resource Development, government of India and the Education department of the State govern-

ment to look into the matter.

“During 2011, the State Education department provided a sizable amount of fund for the infrastructure development of more than 50 LP schools under Chaidwar Education Block in Sonitpur district. But these schools had to face tough challenge in getting the government fund. We feel that such things happen only in case of the Boro-medium schools and we sense a deep conspiracy of the authorities to destroy these schools and the future of the children studying there,” The people of the area lamented.

Expressing total dissatisfaction over the discriminating attitude of the Government and the department concerned, they also alleged that citing the bogey raised by a section of anti-Boro elements, the authorities have been creating obstructions in implementing the RTE Act in most of the Boro-medium LP schools in Dhekiajuli area in the district terming these schools as illegally established on forest lands. General Secretary of Sonitpur ABSU, Khaneswar Boro highlighting

few data regarding the issue said that as per the “Gazette of India” (Extraordinary), the Scheduled Tribes and other Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, scheduled tribes enjoy the right to hold and live in the forest land under the individual or common occupation for habitation or for self-cultivation for livelihood by a member or members of a forest dwelling scheduled tribe or other traditional forest and notwithstanding anything contained in the Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980, the Central Government shall provide for diversion of forest land for the facilities managed by the Government.

“Even after this right enjoyed by the tribal people provided by the Gazette of India, they often face unnecessary harassment in the name of official processes.” He said urging the authority, particularly the new state government to go deep into the matter before dealing with such issues so that through their acts, the dignity and rights of a particular community is not affected.

on driving skills

ET Bureau Changlang, June 16 : The Assam rifles organizing a month long workshop on driving skills and vehicle maintenance to train the youth

of Changlang and other neighboring villages who lack access to such activities. The youth have showed tremendous enthusiasm in their keen participation.

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 17

PAGE 4 Hardcore congress workers join BJP ET Correspondent Diphu June 16: As part of victory celebration of the BJP, a large workers’ meeting was held today at Phuloni where the newly elected MLAs Joyram Engleng and Sum Ronghang were felicitated. The meeting was presided over by the district BJP President Longki Phangcho saw enormous turnout including a galaxy of district BJP leaders that included Ajit Dey, Padma Maibongsa, Bharat Kr Timung, Ratan Teron, Sarsing Phangcho, Ramsing Timung and Dinesh Timung. The meeting was followed by a grand feast which marked the celebration of the victory achieved by the party in the recently concluded Assam assembly election. On the occasion, 53 Congress workers and 10 HSDC workers left their respective parties to join BJP.

Harvi Tokbipi no more ET Correspondent Diphu June16: Harvi Tokbipi, the mother-in-law of EM Kache Rongpipi and Wife of Late Joysing Doloi, former CEM, died here today of old age. She was believed to have lived 100 years. The grand old lady had been a great source of joy and delight in the Terang family which is closely associated with the public life of this district since the early 1960s when late Joysing Doloi came into prominence first as the Executive Member and later as the Chief Executive Member of the then Mikir Hills District Council.

Harvi Tokbipi had cut a niche for herself in the public image of the family as an affable, courteous and delightful hostess and throughout her life anyone who came in contact with her would vouch for her genial nature. She could not ask for more in life as VIPs of the District adored her as their mother. Her son Bhuban Ch Terang was EM and her elder Son-in-law Birensing Engti is the sitting MP. Her daughter-in-law continues to serve as the EM of KAAC. She died at her home at Amlapatty, Diphu at 5.00pm yesterday at the ripe age of 100.

Army and Police Seized Huge Quantity Encephalitis claims six lives in Morigaon Of Cannabis in different places ET Correspondent Rangia, June 16: Based on specific military intelligence regarding presence of NDFB(S) terrorists actively involved in the drug trafficking, a 48 hours long major joint operation was launched by the Red Horn Division of Indian Army along with 61 SSB Battalion and Arunachal Police in village Boha. The joint operation was meticulously

planned and involved security forces encircling the suspected area with total surprise of the villagers and suspects during the night.

The operation was successful and more than 300 KG of cannabis (ganja) was recovered by the security forces in the general area Serfam Heights near Boha village. The village is located in the border area of

Assam and Arunachal Pradesh and is notorious for cannabis cultivation. The operation has dealt a serious blow by rupturing the link between the illegal drug peddlers and terrorist organizations like NDFB and others by choking their finances. Along with the operation, the Indian Army conducted two medical camps in villages of Boha and Ankling.

More than 500 local villagers including women and children from all communities were administered with free treatment and medicines by the Indian Army Medical Officers. The villagers were appreciative of the human and noble act of the men in olive green in ameliorating the poor medical conditions of the locals.

On the other hand Railway Protection Force (RPF )

149 banks officials under CVC scanner for corruption New Delhi, Jun 16 (PTI) As many as 149 employees of various banks have come under the scanner of Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) for their alleged involvement in corruption.

Of these, 124 employees, including 13 sweepers, are working with Indian Overseas Bank (IOB).

The Commission has sought permission to prosecute these employees from the authority concerned, according to its monthly performance report

for April.

They are among 193 officials facing corruption charges and against whom CVC has sought permission for prosecution, it said.

Out of the total of 49 cases awaiting sanction for prosecution, 23 involve public sector banks. Among banks, a highest of 10 cases are of IOB employees, three of Bank of India, two of State Bank of Patiala, and one case each of Oriental Bank of Commerce, Corporation Bank, Exim Bank,

International Yoga Day to be celebrated ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, June 16:A hectic preparation has got underway to celebrate second International Yoga Day on June 21 in Kokrajhar along with rest of the international.

The BANDHU, a social development society in Kokrajhar has been celebrating the day with long programme scheduled at Rashmela ground in Kokrajhar.

BTC chief Hagrama Mohilary will grace as chief guest on the day. Rabiram

Narzary, MLA Kokrajhar west, Doneswar Goyary, BTC executive member, Rajib Brahma, BTC executive member, Madhav Prasad Sarma, DC,Shyamal Prasad Saikia, SP, Kokrajhar will attend as guests.

Sanjay, renowned Yoga Guru will present Yoga demonstration where huge participant and yoga followers are participating on the day. The celebration will start from 5am in the morning and will continue till 8.30am.

Vijaya Bank, Punjab and Sind Bank, United Bank of India and Bank of Baroda.

Those found allegedly involved in corruption include sweepers, two part-time sweepers, General Manager and Chief Manager among others.

"There has been increase in cases of corruption involving banks officials. CVC has sought permission to prosecute 96 employees working with various banks. The number has

now gone up to 149," a senior CVC official said.

Sanction is awaited against 193 employees, including 149 working in the banks, for more than four months. As per the norms, the matter of granting sanction for prosecution has to be decided within four months.

Not only banks but other government departments are also delaying permission to punish the corrupt officials.

As many as six cases involving at least eight government officers, most of them belong-

One killed, seven injured in a road accident at Panitola in Tinsukia Contd. from Page 1

Frequent travellers after hearing the shocking incident said this was to happen today or tomorrow as all the wingers and autos plying on road are always overloaded with passenger to an extent where it disturbs the driver. For example auto drivers adjusts passengers on both side of his seat. It is horrifying as a passenger, but we are left with no

choice, added another passenger and said winger and auto drivers hardly care for human life, what matters to them is money, money and only money.

They alleged that officials of district transport office and traffic police turn a close eye to such scenes.

Even the distirct administration seems to be least bothered by the way passengers life's are put at risk, a serious allegation that needs to be answered by all.

Leaders expresses condolence over Dutta’s death ET Correspondent Kokrajhar,June 16: Leaders from different party and organisations,included BTC chief Hagrama Mohilary,ABSU president Promod Boro, former Rajya Sabha MP and UPP president Urkhao Gwra Brahma, expressed deepest condolence over sudden death of Anjan Dutta,president of Assam Pradesh Congress Committee(APCC) and former minister,who passes away today morning at AIIMS in New Delhi.

Newly elected MLA of Tinsukia,Sanjoy Kishan is reviewing the works of Tinsukia Municipality Board with Ward Commissioners.A great move as there are many complains about distribution of Kerosene oil, Old age pensions etc. Pic - Sidharth Singh

Mohilary,in his condolence message extended deep sorrow over sudden demise of Dutta today morning. Dutta was a man of leadership,who shouldered

presidentship of Congress party in the state of Assam and was minister for Transport department. He has prayed to the almighty god for his departed soul.

Former Rajya Sabha MP and UPP president Urkhao Gwra Brahma expressed deepest condolence over sudden death of Anjan Dutta,president of APCC.He said that Assam lost a great poitical leader with his death. He was a leader of gentle and couragious in the field of political arena for the state,Brahma said. ‘I met him closely during the prepoll understanding in between Congress-UPP in recent concluded Assam assembly election.Dutta was a

leader of strong capability to lead the national party,who always sees good integration within party.

Assam lost a great political leader with his death in the state’, Brahma added.

Promod Boro,president of ABSU condoles his deepest sorrow over Dutta’s death,said that political arena in the state lost a dedicated great leader.

Kampa Borgoyary,BTC deputy chief and BPF leader expressed his shocked over sudden demise of Dutta.He said, ‘It is a great shock news of demise of Anjan Dutta,former minister and APCC president today.I pay my condolence to the departed soul.Assam has lost a good leader in the state’.

Utilization of DoTCL grants not transparent in BordumsaDiyun, Public leader demands review to this effect ET Correspondent Bordumsa, June 16: While the sudden issue of floorcrossing has become the hot cake for common mouths in Bordumsa-Diyun area in Changlang District of Arunachal Pradesh, another issue centering round the utilization of Development of Tirap-Changlang– Longding grants (DoTCL) has raised the eye-brows of the people at large following the sensational revelation of the Chairperson of Bordumsa Anchal Samity, Sindunong Singpho who on behalf of the people alleged that the utilization of the said fund is yet to be understood by the people and public leaders of the concerned jurisdiction including

Rangia seized about 50 kg's of Cannabis ( ganja) from Rangia Railway Station Plat form No 1 on June 16 on routine checking. According to RPF officer the cannabis was luing on the platform in two travel bags abandond.

On routine checking Railway Police recovered the ganga.The market value of the recovered cannabis is more than lakhs. No one arrested in this regards.

Bordumsa and Diyun.

According to him, the concerned department is accountable to maintain transparency while carrying out the various projects accomplished under the said grants and the people has every right to know area of development and the utilization of the said public money that comes annually in the form of grants to be utilized in various sectors for the development of the area. He alleged that there has been no record nor any information to this effect has been shared in public showing the utilization areas nor the accounts made transparency for the last two financial years. He demanded immediate review of all concerned to

this effect and ensure that the public money is not misused or goes unaccounted.

However, demanding total transparency of the utilization of the said fund in Bordumsa area and other vital aspects related to any schemes, projects, budget including the expenditure incurred out of the said grants and demanding the criteria or the basis of the selection of area under the projects, he told that the various implementing agencies or the department heads never speaks on the issues for fear of being transferred or politically charged, thus the fate of the developmental funds either fell into an unaccounted

ditch or remains misused.

It may be recalled here that in order to streamline and rationalize developmental funds of the State Government, JP Rajkhowa, and the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh convened a review meeting at Raj Bhavan, Itanagar on 2nd February 2016 in the presence of several dignitaries including Wangton Lowang, Deputy Director, DoTCL where the Governor reviewed the guiding principle and course of action for Thirteen Finance Commission (TFC) Grants for forestry related activities and Department of Tirap, Changlang and Longding grant.

The Governor has directed that Approved plan which was already approved previously by last High Level Monitoring Committee (HLMC) should be implemented and no arbitrary changes should be made on the project priority list.

Meanwhile, it may be reiterated that the Deputy Director DoTCL Wangton Lowang had informed the Governor about the Development funds earmarked for districts of Tirap, Changlang and Longding. The Governor has reviewed the numbers of projects and instructed that funds should be equitably distributed to all assembly constituencies.

ing to the elite Indian Administrative Service, are pending with the Department of Personnel and Training, which acts as the nodal authority for anti-corruption measures.

Besides these, three cases involve officers working in the Railways Ministry, two each in Defence, Home, Health and Steel Ministry, and one each in Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC) and Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), among others.

Two body recovered in Udalguri ET Correspondent Kokrajhar,June 16: Sensation prevailed in Udalguri district after recoverey two bodies,who allegedly tortured to death at Bhutiachang Tea Estate area this morning. According to source, Sona Pator (30) and Kanhaiya Bhukta (35) were forcefully picked up by a group of persons late last night alleging involved with stealing wealth from Suresh Tanti,BTC MCLA few days back.

The group of persons kept them at a house and beaten to death whole night and their bodies were thrown up at different places on the same night,body of Sona Pator threw in front of his house at Bhutiachang TE old line while Kanhaiya’s body was thrown at Bhutiachang market. The incident has been creating resented and sensation,was a matter about to create violation of law and order situation in the district. Family members alleged that group persons tortured to death persons under conspiracy of BTC MCLA Suresh Tanti.They demanded strong action into incident and nab involved culprits. Police arrested BTC MCLA Suresh Tanti and Sanjoy Anthony for allegedly involved with incident. Rakesh Roshan, SP, Udalguri said that police would never allow anybody to take law in their own hands.

Police will not hesitate to take action against incident and persons if found guilty all will be put behind bars,irrespective of their social and political status, he added.

Sadhana Hojai, DC Udalguri urged civil and police officials to be alert while maintaining law and order in the district,beside appealed all sections of peoples not to be emotionally carried away by rumours.

ET Correspondent Morigaon, June 16: Japanese Encephalitis has broken out in epidemic form in Lahorighat and Bhurbandha blocks in Morigaon district of Central Assam claiming six persons while affecting more than 200 people in different villages. According to Dr Biplab Kumar Gohain, Joint Director, Health, Morigaon during last 48 hours 4 death cases were reported in the district due to Japanese Encephalitis and Dengue.

The Joint Director, Health further said that in Lahorighat Tengaguri village one Khaliza Begum (65) and a 9 year old boy namely Abu Bakkar Siddique died due to the disease where their death re-

port confirmed the A..E (Acute Encephalitis +ve virus). On the other hand, Kamaleswari Devi (55) of Balijan Village and Jaya Bordoloi of Solmari village died of Encephalitis. The Medical team confirmed the death of another two women namely Rabia Khatoon of Borchapori village and Saruja Begum(65) of Lochanbori village who died yesterday in Encephalitis and Dengue respectively.

Meanwhile, the state Health Department has taken some measures to curb the disease in those remote areas of the district. Apart from awareness programme, the government department launched vaccination drive in affected areas, Gohain informed.

18 members of Lahorighat Anchalik Panchayat joined BJP ET Correspondent Morigaon, June 16 : Giving a big blow to former Minister and present MLA, Lahorighat Dr Nazrul Islam and his Congress Party, 10 members of Congress and 8 members of AIUDF formally quit their parties on June 15 and formally joined in Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). Rajen Gohain, M.P. Nagaon and Piyush Hazarika , MLA, Jagiroad welcomed the members to BJP.

It may be mentioned here that Lahorrighat Anchalik Panchayat has 24 members and in last panchayat election, Congress won 15 seats, 8 seats were won by AIUDF, and one seat was captured

by BJP. All the newly joined members raised the no confidence motion against the Chairperson Juli Hajowari and proposed the new name Momi Pator of BJP for new Chairman of Lahorighat Anchalik Panchayat.

NEICMA organizes National Conference on Trade and Industry ET Correspondent Tezpur, June 16 : North East India Commerce and Management Association (NEICMA),a newly formed academic forum of commerce and management faculty members working in college, universities and other institutes of the North East Region is organizing its first National Conference on “Trade and Industry in North East India: Challenges and Strategies” on September 23 and 24 at Gauhati University.

The national conference shall provide a platform for exchange of research outcomes of academicians, researchers and practitioners of the region and other parts of the country on the issues related to trade and industry in North East India. Sub-themes of the conference include Cross-border trade, Act East Policy, Make in In-

dia, International trade relations ,Trade, investment and security Sectoral growth and possibilities, Digital industry, Tourism & hospitality industry, Power and infrastructure Manufacturing industry, Banking and insurance, Agriculture & food processing industry and any other topic related to the theme. Head of Business Administration, Tezpur University & General Secretary of the Association Prof. Debabrata Das informed that host of industrialists and renowned researchers and academicians are expected to participate in the conference.

“Research papers and policy notes are invited for presentation and discussion in the conference which may be sent to Dr.A.P.Pati at email apatiau@yahoo.com on or before 16th of August 2016.” Prof. Das said.

Move to open wine shop opposed ET Correspondent Tezpur, June 11: Different organizations including Bahbari Anchalick Boro Sahitya Sabha, West Tezpur Anchalick ABSU and Bengali Student’s Federation that have always been raising their voice against various anti-social elements those who have been trying to break the social environment and the communal fabric in the greater Khelmati and Phulaguri area under the Rangapara PS in Sonitpur District have opposed the move to open a wine shop in Phulaguri area by some unscrupulous people.

The office bearers of the trio-organizations alleged that one Amit Mech of Hatidubi area supported by some corrupt contractors and one surrender NDFB leader is going to open the wine shop at Phulaguri centre which is surrounded by various social and academic organizations like Kadamtal High school, Khelmati High and ME school and Sonali Junior College etc. The organizations have also opined that due to the use of country liquor in the greater area already the social environment as well as the student community have been affected severely and if the

wine shop is permitted to run there in the mentioned place the social environment that is already plagued by many a problem including the prevalent of large scale country liquor and illegal wine in the area will be compounded.

Attracting the attention of the authority concerned including the Deputy Commissioner, Sonitpur, Laya Madduri, District Excise office and police administration, the socially aware people of the area besides the mentioned three social organizations urged to intervene in the move saving the overall environment of the area.

REGION

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 17

Tripura Minister Says No To Goa Conference As Centre Refuses To Pay Accommodation Cost

Tripura Power Minister Manik Dey Agartala, Jun 16: Tripura Power Minister Manik Dey will abstain from the two-day Power Ministers' conference slated to begin from today in South Goa on the plea that the Centre has declined to pay their accommodation cost.

The Union Ministry of Power had officially informed the state Power minister's office in Agartala that it would arrange accommodation in star category hotel for the minister and his officials, but the states concerned have to bear the hotel cost, officials said on Thursday.

The state power secretary informed the union power secretary three days ago that the DA of the ministers of a state

was Rs. 600 only, which would not be enough to bear the cost of accommodation in a hotel in South Goa and the state government would not pay the cost of a star category hotel accommodation, they said.

Earlier, when such meetings were held outside Delhi, all costs were borne by the Centre and when such meetings were held in Delhi the ministers concerned stayed at their respective state guest houses, senior state government officials said.

Mr Dey, who has been holding the post of state power minister for the last thirteen and half years had never experienced such a situation, the officials added.(Agencies)

UCM, AMUCO call for unity ahead of June 18 anniv Imphal, Jun 16: The All Manipur United Clubs Organisation (AMUCO) and the United Committee Manipur (UCM) have urged the public the cease work on June 18 to take part at the Great June Uprising, Unity Day observation and pledge for the unity and integrity of Manipur.

In a statement, the Observation Committee of the 15th Great June Uprising, Unity Day on behalf of the two civil society bodies urged the masses to pay floral tributes to the martyrs at Kekrupat from 5 am to 6 pm on the day.

As in past years, other ritual ceremonies and a people's convention would also be held at the venue, it added. UCM and AMUCO said that Manipur used to be an independent, sovereign country among the South East Asian nations. The diverse ethnic communities of the land have been coexisting peacefully, helping and sharing with the others. After annexation by India on October 15, 1949, Manipur lost the right to self determination and Manipuri people have been living under subjugation. In the name of democracy, Government of India has been conspiring to break up Mani-pur by driving in wedges between different communities. A glaring example is the Government of India's challenge to the territorial integri- ty of Manipur in the process of a peace talk with an insurgent outfit, the two CSOs said.

Saying that the thunderous sound of the massive June Uprising is still echoing in the ears of the people and the gunshots fired indiscriminately to suppress the agitation is reverberating even today, UCM and AMUCO said that June 18, 2001 reminds all that the people can give up their lives for the motherland, for the territory of the State and for unity.

Keeping the heart rending 'uprising' in heart, AMUCO and UCM, to safeguard the unity and the integrity of the state and to perpetually remind the posterity, have been observing the day as 'The Great June Uprising, Unity Day' every year in respect of the brave hearts.

It has become imperative for the people of Manipur to prepare with a shared understanding to face the challenges inevitably come along with the fast paced globalization and India's Look East Policy.

There seem to be no prospects and hopes for the economically backward Manipuris except as 'coolies' in the scenario. The alarming rate of illegal influx of foreigners/ outsiders is threatening to outnumber and gradually wipe out the indigenous population, the two bodies said.

But the irony of the situation is that the puppet administrators/rulers are turning a blind eye to the menacing problem, doing nothing, it alleged. "We are not for a total ban on the entry of foreigners/ outsiders but the regulation of their entries and stays and their return under rules/ laws, the absence of which creates unwanted, ugly problems. Its time now for all of us to try to meet these serious challenges instead of indulging in creating communal divides between big and small communities", the two bodies said.

The people of Manipur welcome the permanent settlement of insurgency issues for a peaceful life. But if the Government of India tries to use

some insurgent outfits as tools to break the unity and integrity of Manipur, continue its conspiracy to instigate ethnic cleansings in the name of counter insurgency operations, the people of Manipur would stand against it, the two bodies said. This is the collective stand of the people. Manipuris want to coexist with other communities peacefully, have been living so for centuries and continue to do so. Today, the voice for unity, the decision to live together with other communities, of our kinsmen/ blood brothers settled in the hills are tremendously strengthened.

"Let us beware of those who indulge in factionalism, those who can not comprehend the essence of unity, those who work for parochial, communal and limited geographical interests, those leaders who see their selfish ends only; people should beware of them. Let all the communities living in the state be very vigilant to keep intact the unity of all and the integrity of Manipur", the two bodies said. Govt of India is still threatening the boundaries of Manipur. AMUCO and UCM will never be silent spectators to the efforts to break up Manipur just to appease a few leaders of the NSCN (IM).

Now the unrealistic 'Supra State Body' or the 'Alternative Arrangement' or any other internal administrative arrangement based on ethnic line are all anti people, fully loaded with hidden agenda will never be taken lightly by the people of Manipur.

The boundaries of Manipur drawn by the noble blood of our ancestors can never be infringed upon and violated.

This is the determined stand of the Manipuris. The secret agenda of the government of India to flare up communal fires, brew ethnic clashes and purging to weaken us need to be closely observed. It is time now to have a consensual understanding of all these that harms us and strengthens the enemy. Unreasonable and Utopian demands like 'Greater Nagalim', 'Kuki State' and other communal demands will create a historic catastrophe only; coexistence is the only determinant of a good future, the two CSOs said.

On the other hand, the existence of the liberation movements in the region cannot be taken lightly. It has become a great necessity and requirement towards a permanent solution to the problem. The situation is now becoming more serious after the recently signed framework agreement between Govt of India & NSCN (IM) where everything is kept aloof of the contents of the agreement.

Above this, the inability or lack of seriousness of our politicians have added to the level of apprehensiveness and our political uncertainty. The constant threat to our territorial integrity still looms large upon us. There can be no compromise in any form so as to disintegrate our polity in the name of development and administration as mentioned above. So as to bring forth a congenial political atmosphere, the Govt. of India should instead focus or removing draconian laws like AFSPA which is now imposed in this region without any delay so as to end the discrimination to the people of this region, the two bodies added.(Agencies)

PAGE 5

Four militants arrested in Manipur Imphal, Jun 16: Four militants, including two hardcore cadre, have been arrested in Manipur in separate incidents, the police said on Thursday.

A press release issued by the police said on Thursday one self-styled 'Public Relation Officer' of the tribal outfit Kuki People s Liberation Army, Jangkhongam Touthang (56) was arrested at Chassad Avenue on Monday last. The release also said he was a former 'SS Major' of the KLA/ KNO and involved in the kidnapping of one Stune Hyungo and in-

dulged in various extortion and kidnapping cases.

In a separate incident, two hardcore cadre of KNF (N) Douthanglen Group, 32-year-old Letjang Haokip and 27year-old Lunminthang Kipgen, both from Churachandpur, were nabbed by a team of police commandos from Tribal Market in Imphal, the release said.

Investigation revealed the duo was actively involved in the abduction of the Public Relations Officer of legislator G S Haopu and had carried

napping of one JCB driver K Todonba Singh last month, the release said.

On the same day, one PREPAK (VC) activist was apprehended by a combined team of Manipur police comman-

Four militants, including two hardcore cadre, have been arrested in Manipur in separate incidents, the police said on Thursday. out several activities including transportation of arms and ammunition, providing shelter to their

party cadre and arrangement of party cadre, the release said. The duo was also involved in the kid-

"Two hardcore cadre of KNF (N) Douthanglen Group, 32-year-old Letjang Haokip and 27-year-old Lunminthang Kipgen, both from Churachandpur, were nabbed by a team of police commandos from Tribal Market in Imphal"

Political parties unite against demand of separate tribal state in Tripura Agartala, Jun 16: In the silver lining of accumulation of non-left votes in next 2018 assembly election to 60 members house of Tripura, the demand of separate Twipraland for tribal people of the state by the strongest tribal based Indigenous People's Front of Tripura (IPFT) has become a stumbling block.

The IPFT has been motivating large number of hill people by demanding a separate tribal state through elevating Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC) to Twipraland.

The party has called for road and rail blockade on June 22 next to press for the demand. But the demand has not been accepted by any of the political party including tribal based opposition Indigenous Nationalist Party of Tripura (INPT).

The opposition BJP, Trinamool Congress and Congress vehemently opposed the demand of 'Twipraland' while ruling CPI-M made it clear that the party has decided to consolidate its activities to isolate IPFT in both hill and plains.

BJP state president Biplab Kumar Deb said their party does not approve any such demand of separate state but BJP believes there is a need to strengthen ADC including style of functioning.

"BJP never support separate state demand raised by any political party.

Yet, the party is in favour of transforming ADC into a state council with the provision of direct funding from the Centre for development of the tribals of Tripura," Deb said.

He, however, pointed out that it is true indigenous

people of Tripura are still remained deprived of basic amenities because of loop sighted development approach and large scale corruption in spite of huge financial support from the centre.

Despite having crores of rupees from the Centre under various programs, hundreds of tribals have been dying due to malaria and water-borne and summer diseases every year.

suring direct funding from the Centre", he said.

Congress president Birajit Sinha stated that his party was not in favour of Twipraland for the tribal and said, "We do not believe separate state will end up all problems of the tribal rather it will give a multiplier effect. We want ADC should function independently and ensure the development in a time bound manner".

The tribals' of the state is also deprived of basic services like health, education, transportation and drinking water, he alleged.

Trinamool Congress chairman Ratan Chakraborty said, the party is against the demand of separate state or state within the state.

"Of course, we want empowerment of the state's lone tribal council by en-

INPT has also viewed the same sentiment stating that demand of separate state is not practical and comprehensive for development of tribals of Tripura.

INPT President Bijoy Kumar Hrangkhwal said, "We are not agreed to separate statehood demand but the party wants implementation of steps to address some genuine issues of tribal and em-

powerment of ADC, as we have demanded certain actions to safeguard the interest of indigenous people living in ADC areas".

He added that INPT demands included empowerment of ADC with autonomy; direct funding from the centre, Inner Line Permit for ADC, 50 per cent seats of the assembly to be reserved for tribal and inclusion of Karborok in the eight schedule of the Constitution.

Meanwhile, CPI-M state secretary Bijan Dhar said, "We oppose this demand because it is divisive, irresponsible and politically motivated.

This demand for Twipra Land is aimed at creating a separate state by dividing the small Tripura state, which would increase the sufferings of the people."

(Agencies)

Shimla HC rejects HRTC employees apology, terms it an act of "cringing coward" Shimla, Jun 16 : Himachal High Court on Thursday came down heavily on striking Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) for willfully defying its orders, saying they should "bear the consequences of their action" failing which the court orders would be "conveniently" ignored or flouted by all. The court refused to accept "oral apology" tendered by the employee leaders through their counsel.

A division bench of High Court consisting of Justice Tarlok Singh Chauhan and Justice Sandeep Sharma passed the orders on a petition filed by the government that the HRTC employ-

Himachal High Court on Thursday came down heavily on striking Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) for willfully defying its orders

ees went on strike despite its directive on June 13 and 14 not to do so.

"Breach on the part of the respondents is willful and blatant which was observed even in the order passed by this court yesterday," the bench said.

"It is clear that the respondents, who have ab-

solutely no regard for the orders of the court must be made to bear the consequences of their action, otherwise all the parties would conveniently ignore or flout the orders of the Courts," the bench said.

"Since all the striking employees despite the

directions of the court have not joined back on duty by calling off the strike, the apology at this stage cannot be accepted.

"Apology is an act of contrition and unless it is offered in good grace, the apology is shorn of penitence and hence it is liable to be rejected," it observed. The court further said that "If the apology is offered at the time when the contemnor finds that the court is going to impose pun-

ishment it ceases to be an apology and becomes an act of a cringing coward." It said "the apology is not a weapon of defence to purge the guilty of their offence nor is it intended to operate as universal panacea, but it is intended to be evidence of real contriteness." The court said the petitioners have supplied a list of the employees who had gone on strike and they are ordered to be arrayed.(Agencies)

"Apology is an act of contrition and unless it is offered in good grace, the apology is shorn of penitence and hence it is liable to be rejected."

App launched for senior citizens in Shimla Shimla, Jun 16: On the "World Elder Abuse Awareness Day", an application "Save Our Seniors" was launched in Shimla on Wednesday.

The core objective of this app is to give more easy access to the senior citizens. In last five years HelpAge India has conducted Pan India studies on elder Abuse and has found that it has gone up drastically from 23% in the previous year to 50% this year. It is also re-

vealed that 51% abusers are sons whereas 49% abusers are daughters in Himachal Pradesh. Dr Rajesh Kumar, State Head- Himachal Pradesh & Ladakh, HelpAge India said that elder victims cited that the primary reasons underlying their abuses are: 'emotional dependence on the abuser' (46%), 'economic dependence on the abuser' (45%) and 'changing ethos' (38%).

Unfortunately 41% of

those abused, did not report the matter to anyone, "Maintaining confidentiality of the family matter" was cited as the major reason (59%), he added.

He said that in the survey the Daughter-in-laws (61%) and Sons (59%) emerged as the top most perpetrators. This year the number of people who are admitting to have suffered abuse for 3-5 years, has jumped to

46% as against 28% the previous years, he said.

In pan India 50 % elders said that they have gone through abuse while in Himachal 17% elders said that they have gone through various types of abuse.

He said that with the launch of SOS App for Senior Citizens, help is only 'a click away'. He said that the App serves as a one-stop security measure for elders na-

dos and troops of 2nd Assam Rifles from Poirei Khongjil area in Imphal East district. The apprehended identified as 22year-old Chingakham Ranjit has been involved in extortion for raising funds for the outfit, the release added.(Agencies)

tionally, connecting them to the Help Age Local Helplines across India.

"One SOS call made to the App will be directly answered by the HelpAge helpline staff/ counsellor. Its 24x7 functionality aims at helping elders in distress at any given time. In case of emergencies, it connects them with the local Police, hospital or old age homes if need be," he added.(Agencies)

Commuters relieved as strike ends Shimla, Jun 16: HRTC buses were back on roads on Wednesday as the Joint Coordination Committee (JCC) of HRTC employee unions called off the strike after the High Court took a serious view of the defiance of its order and asked the employees to resume duty. The commuters heaved a sigh of relief as the employees joined duties this morning and local buses were seen running on roads in Shimla around 9 am and by the evening, the situation returned to normal in most parts of the state.

A few Volvo and deluxe buses were operational from late last night.

The strong notice taken by the High Court regarding the wilful defiance of court orders by the Joint Coordination Committee and the tough stand taken by the government to reject the demands of the JCC to convert the HRTC into roadways compelled the leaders to soften their stand and call off the strike.

Transport Minister GS Bali said the number of employees whose names had been given to the court for defying the orders were 160.

Apart from the financial loss of Rs 2.5 crore, it was a loss to reputation as the public was put to inconvenience.

Bali came down heavily on JCC leaders for going on a strike in spite of the High Court orders, causing hardships to commuters. He said all those who instigated, misguided or intimidated the employees to go on strike would face action as per the service rules. "The matter is pending in the court and we will take action after the matter was disposed of", he added.

Rejecting the demand of the JCC to convert the HRTC into roadways, he said all employees had joined the HRTC and as such the demand was untenable. He said the HRTC had accepted most demands of the employees and some demands were being negotiated but the employees chose to go on strike, causing inconvenience to commuters. There are 9,375 employees in the HRTC. (Agencies)

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 17

PAGE 6

The Indian Express backs report on MHA official tutoring witness in Ishrat case New Delhi, June 16: National Bureau chief of The Indian Express, Manish Chhibber, on Thursday backed the report published in the English daily over Home Ministry official B.K. Prasad, head of the committee looking into the documents missing in the Ishrat Jahan encounter case, tutoring a witness in the case and said the matter was reported based on the call records.

"On April 25, my colleague in The Indian Express Sagnik Choudhury spoke to Additional Secretary B.K. Prasad in the Home Ministry, who is also the enquiry officer in the Ishrat Jahan missing documents case. While talking to him on an unrelated issue, Sagnik's call

was put on hold and Prasad started talking to somebody else on another phone. Since the call was getting recorded, we overheard everything that was said," Chhibber told.

He further stated that it was a big story for the daily as it was clear that Prasad was tutoring another fellow officer, who was also an IAS officer.

"He was actually tutoring him on the questions that he would ask and the answers he expected the officer to say. I will not go into Chidambaram's statement because that is a political issue between him and the government," he added.

Pointing out that it was a bona fide story for the publication, Chhibber said it was a story that

Sonia Gandhi condoles demise of 'committed leader' Anjan Dutta

Congress president Sonia Gandhi New Delhi, June 16: Expressing shock and grief over the untimely demise of Assam Pradesh Congress Committee ( APCC) chief Anjan Dutta, Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Thursday said that not only the state, but the entire grand old party had lost a leader committed to the people.

"Not only the Assam state Congress, but the entire Congress Party had lost a leader committed to the people," Gandhi said in a statement while extending her condolences

to his wife and daughters.

Dutta, 64, who had been undergoing treatment at the AIIMS for the past one month, passed away this morning.

Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi had earlier visited AIIMS to inquire about Dutta's health.

Dutta, who was three times MLA from the Amguri Constituency, had also served as the president of the Assam Pradesh Youth Congress Committee and the chairman of the North East Youth Congress Co-ordination Committee. (ANI)

National Bureau chief of The Indian Express would awaken everybody. Countering the news published in 'The Indian Express' former home minister P. Chidamabram, who drew flak for the alleged two affidavits filed by the Centre in the Ishrat Jahan

case, earlier today said the reports "completely exposed the fake controversy created by the NDA government", adding that it vindicates his stand.

"The news report published in the Indian Express today (16 June

2016) comprehensively exposes the fake controversy created by the NDA government on the two affidavits filed by the Central government in the Ishrat Jahan case," Chidambaram said in statement.

Meanwhile, Additional Secretary (Foreigners) Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) B.K. Prasad rubbished the allegations of "tutoring" a witness while probing into "missing papers" relating to the Ishrat Jahan encounter case, contesting that he had conducted a fair inquiry and all officers inquired by him are fully capable of answering questions relating to the probe on their own.

Prasad, who headed the probe into the missing

documents in the Ishrat Jahan case, said he had conducted a free and fair inquiry which his Inquiry Report will reveal. According to a report published in the daily, a Union Home Ministry official, who headed the probe into the missing documents in the Ishrat Jahan encounter case, not only told a witness the questions he would ask but also suggested to him what answers he should give - that he had not seen any of the documents.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh had earlier said many documents related to the preparation of the ministry's second affidavit in the Ishrat Jahan encounter case are missing and an internal inquiry has been ordered. (ANI)

Kamal Nath resigned fearing action in 1984 anti-Sikh riots case: AAP New Delhi, June 16: Coming down heavily on Congress leader Kamal Nath after he resigned as the party's in-charge of Punjab affairs, Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader H.S. Phoolka on Thursday said the former resigned fearing action in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots case.

"When he got to know that if case reopens he will be punished, he resigned from his post. But his resignation won't end the murder charges. He should be given punishment for his deeds. We will pursue this matter so that he gets punishment," Phoolka told.

Further escalating his attack, Phoolka said Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal and Congress leader Captain Amarinder Singh are shielding Kamal Nath. "I challenge Badal that if you are not shielding Badal, then if the SIT has opened 75 cases, why is the case of Kamal Nath not opened? It should be opened immediately because the attack on Gurudwara Rakabganj Sahib is not a minor issue. This case should be reopened and within two

months investigation should be completed and chargesheet should be issued against Kamal Nath," he added.

Echoing similar sentiments, another AAP leader Ashutosh told that Kamal Nath's resignation proved that the grand old party had accepted its involvement in the 1984 anti-Sikh riots. "This was continuously being said by the Aam Aadmi Party that by making him the incharge of Punjab affairs, you don't care about the people of the state. The Aam Aadmi Party has strongly opposed to it.

There should be a probe in regard to his involvement in the massacre and the truth should get revealed and he should be punished," he added.

Kamal Nath resigned as the party's general secretary in-charge of Punjab yesterday, a post he was given just two days ago, after the AAP, the Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accused him of involvement in the 1984 antiSikh riots.

In a letter addressed to Congress president Sonia Gandhi yesterday, Kamal

Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader H.S. Phoolka Nath requested her to relieve him from his duties so that the attention of the party is not diverted from the real issues such as the 'rampant drug trade' in Punjab.

Hoping that the party focuses on the upcoming elections rather than the furore over his appointment, he added that the Congress must highlight the issues of misgovernance, misery of farmers and youth, break down of law and order and rampant drug trade that caused misery to the people of Punjab.

Several state Congress leaders and Nath himself had claimed that he had been absolved by the Nanavati Commission

that probed the killings, which had followed the assassination of the then prime minister Indira Gandhi on October 31, 1984, by her Sikh bodyguards. But the emotive issue could have rocked the boat of the Congress in the assembly elections that are barely six months away.

Immediately since the appointment, the SAD, its partner BJP and the AAP were unsparing in their attack on Nath, who had admitted before the commission that he was present outside Gurdwara Rakabganj when a mob had set it on fire after killing a fatherson duo on November 1, 1984. (ANI)

SC to hear NGO's petition on 'Udta Punjab' screening Pt. Suresh Wadkar joins as faculty at Mumbai University New Delhi, June 16: The Supreme Court will this afternoon hear a plea filed by Punjab-based NGO seeking stay on the screening of the controversial film 'Udta Punjab', which focuses on the drug menace in the state.

The hearing was adjourned earlier in the day as the Bombay High Court's order was not placed before the apex court bench.

The NGO named Human Rights Awareness Association sought an urgent hearing, but the apex court had earlier said that it would hear the matter only after the

petition was cleared by the court registry. The Bombay High Court had on June 13 cleared the release of ' Udta Punjab', whose makers were locked in a dispute with the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC).

The CBFC on Wednesday issued a fresh release certificate to ' Udta Punjab' after the Bombay High Court passed the film with just one cut and three disclaimers.

The Censor Board gave an 'A' certificate to the film citing that the movie is suitable for exhibition but only for adults. (ANI)

Three India fishermen apprehended by Lankan navy Rameswaram, June 16: Three fishermen were apprehended and a boat was impounded by the Sri Lankan Navy in the Palk Strai Delft Island in northern Sri Lanka Navy. The apprehended fishermen have been taken to Kankesanthurai Naval Camp for legal action and were handed over to

Caption:

Three India fishermen apprehended by Lankan navy the fisheries department.

(ANI)

Mumbai, June 16: Veteran singer Pandit Suresh Wadkar has been appointed as the Chairman for Board of Studies in Hindustani Music at Mumbai University. The new role adds up to the responsibility of spreading his musical knowledge, which Pandit Suresh Wadkar has already been doing through Ajivasan Music Academy.

Pt. Suresh Wadkar is acclaimed as one of the most talented and versatile playback singers. Now, being associated with the Mumbai University as the Chairman for Board of studies in Hindustani Music has just added another feather to his cap. Speaking about this honour that has been conferred upon him, Pt. Suresh Wadkar says, "This is indeed a matter of great honor to be appointed as the Chairman for Board of studies in Hindustani Music at Mumbai University. I have dedicated my life to spread and widen the horizon of classical music in India and across the world. I feel proud to be

Veteran singer Pandit Suresh Wadkar nominated as the representative of Hindustani Classical music by Mumbai University and I will strive to live up to the expectations!"

The National Award Winner, Pt. Suresh Wadkar has sung for stalwarts as well as the budding music directors. He has received numerous awards, including 11 for Maharashtra, 3 for Gujarat and 2 for Punjab as the State Best Male Playback Singer Awards, just to mention a few. He has to his credit perhaps the largest collection of

quality songs. About Ajivasan Ajivasan, earlier known as Vasant Sangeet Vidyalay was founded in 1932 in Srinagar by Acharya Jialal Vasant under the patronage of Smt. Rameshwari Nehru. With about twenty-five students under his tutelage, Guruji started out on the musical journey of Sangeet Sandhana.

The Institute had repute for providing scientific training in Hindustani Classical Music, and the students had the opportunity to perform with the master him-

self on several occasions.

After his demise, his daughter Prem Vasant, along with his disciple Suresh Wadkar, decided to fulfill Guruji's dream of establishing a Gurukul, a place where the music aspirants get the benefit of residing and learning music. Thus was born Suresh Wadkar's Ajivasan Music Academy (the term Ajivasan was coined from Acharya Jialal Vasant Sangeet Niketan in fond memory of Guruji).

Today, the institute trains about 600 students in Hindustani and Western Classical Vocals, Instrumental as well as in popular classical dance forms like Kathak and Bharatnatyam.

The institute also houses a recording house by the name Ajivasan Sounds.

Each of the three studios has state-of-the-art equipment for training students in professional singing and for recording music tracks, film songs, TV and Radio ads, promos, jingles and film background score.

(ANI)

MHA Additional Secretary trashes Indian Express report on Ishrat Jahan case probe

MHA Additional Secretary trashes Indian Express report on Ishrat Jahan case probe New Delhi, June 16: Additional Secretary (Foreigners) Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) B.K. Prasad on Thursday rubbished the allegations of "tutoring" a witness while probing into "missing papers" relating to the Ishrat Jahan encounter case, contesting that he had conducted a fair inquiry and all officers inquired by him are fully capable of answering questions relating to the probe on their own.

Prasad, who headed the probe into the missing documents in the Ishrat Jahan case, said he had conducted a free and fair inquiry which his Inquiry Report will reveal. "All officers enquired by me are or have been senior officers in the Government and are fully capable of answering questions relating to the probe on their own and there is no question of the alleged 'tutoring', "Prasad said in a statement issued here.

He further said, "No evidence has been produced establishing that Mr. Ashok Kumar testified being 'tutored' during my alleged conversation."

Reacting sharply to a news report published by The Indian Express, Prasad said, "First of all, it is unethical to record my conversation that also with another officer without my permission and knowledge. More importantly, the conversation had nothing to do with the point of query the journalist had.

"Secondly, what is he saying is only one side of the conversation, without being aware of what the other side, i.e., Mr Ashok Kumar was asking or clarifying with me.

"Thirdly, the officer with whom my conversation has been quoted was enquired by me on 26th April, 2016 and the questions which have been quoted from my alleged conversation were never asked from Mr. Ashok Kumar and the answer which is quoted by the newspaper was never given by him."

He also enclosed with the statement a verbatim of the statement and questions put by him and answers given by Ashok Kumar to put the record straight. It reads: "I, Ashok Kumar, CSS cadre officer of 1988, during the period from 3/1/2011 to 23/12/2011, was working as Director, IS Division-II in the Ministry of Home Affairs. On 26/4/ 2016, I have been called

by Shri B.K. Prasad, IAS, Additional Secretary (Foreigners) & the Enquiry Officer, and was enquired

about the following missing papers from the file, File No.11011/75/04-1SIV, relating to filing of Affidavit in the Isharat lahan Case, (SCA No.822 of 2004 filed by Mrs. Shamina Kausar in the lion'ble Gujarat High Court) - i) Office copy of the letter and enclosure sent by the then HS (Home Secretary) to the Ld.AG on 18.9.2009; ii) Office copy of the letter sent by the then HS to the Ld.AG on 23/9/2009; iii) Draft further affidavit as vetted by the Ld.AG; iv) Draft further affidavit amended by the then HM on 24/9/ 2009; v) Office copy of the further affidavit filed in the Gujarat High Court on 29.9.2009."

"On my request, Shri B. K. Prasad, IAS, AS(F) & the Enquiry Officer has permitted me to peruse the note portions of the above file. The note sheets of the above file reveals that I have not dealt with this file during my entire period in MEM," it further reads.

Prasad then puts questions asked by him and answers given by Ashok Kumar.

Question by AS(F) & Enquiry officer: "On 13/4/ 2011, the then JS (IS) Shri Dharmendra Sharma has made endorsement on the file and marked it to Dir (NE), who was link officer of Dir (IS-II) (By hand).

Whether you had received this file from the then IS Shri Dharmendra Sharma, as marked by him?"

Answer by Ashok Kumar: "As indicated in the note, I was on tour and even after return from my tour, Dir (NE) did not show me or handover this file to me.

I have during my entire tenure, neither dealt with this case nor kept this file in my custody."

Question by AS(F) & Enquiry officer: "Can you please tell me in whose custody the above missing papers could be now?" Answer by Ashok Kumar: "It would be very difficult for me to say anything regarding the above missing papers."

The Indian Express reported on June 16: B K Prasad, the Union Home Ministry official who headed the probe into the "missing documents" in the Ishrat Jahan encounter case, not only told a witness the questions he would ask but also suggested to him what answers he should give that he had not seen any of the documents. This coaching of a witness by the man heading the investigation puts a question mark on the integrity of the probe announced in Lok Sabha by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on March 10.

(ANI)

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 17

PAGE 7

NEIGHBOURS

US Senate approves $800m fund to Pak Islamabad, June 16: The U.S. Senate has passed its draft of the National Defence Authorisation Bill, which includes a provision to set up a new fund to reimburse Pakistan for its efforts in war against terrorism. The $800 million has been authorized under a provision called the `Pakistan Security E n h a n c e m e n t Authorisation', reports .

The draft also fences $300m behind a similar Haqqani network provision that has existed in the annual defence authorisation acts since

Hindu priest receives death threat in Bangladesh Dhaka, Jun 16: Suspected Islamists claiming to be the ISIS followers have threatened to kill a Hindu priest of the Ramakrishna Mission here if he continues to preach in "Islamic Bangladesh", prompting authorities to beef up security around the area.

"The security of the (RK) Mission has been intensified as the priest filed a general diary with us," duty officer of the city's Wari police station said.

The officer declined to disclose the name of the priest.

The mission officials were not immediately available for comments but police said the priest received the threatening letter last evening on a computer-composed IS letterhead with perpetrator identifying him as one AB Siddiqui.

"Bangladesh is an Islamic state. You can't preach your religion here. If you continue preaching, you'll be hacked to death with machetes between the 20th and 30th," the officer quoted the letter as saying.

The letter, he said, did not mention any month. Last evening, a 50-year-old Hindu Mathematics lecturer at the Nazimuddin Government University College, was hacked with lethal weapons by the attackers who stormed his residence in Madaripur in southwestern Bangladesh.

The lecturer is the only Hindu victim to survive an attack by the Islamists, who have hacked to death four other members from the community in recent months. Suspected Islamists have killed a number of secular activists, Hindus and other minorities across the country in recent months prompting authorities to launch a nationwide antimilitant clampdown since Friday.

Bangladesh authorities have detained nearly 12,000 people in a nationwide crackdown to halt a spate of deadly attacks.

Some of those arrested were linked with outlawed Jamaatul Mujahedeen Bangladesh.

Though most of the attacks were claimed by the Islamic State or its affiliates and other similar extremist groups, the Bangladesh government has repeatedly dismissed the claims and said the attacks were carried out by homegrown outfits linked to the opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party.(PTI)

the fiscal year 2015. The proposed reimbursement mechanism for Islamabad replaces the Coalition Support Fund (CSF), which was used to reimburse both Afghanistan and Pakistan for their efforts to combat terrorism.

In total, Pakistan has received $3.1 billion since 2013 under the CSF. But this fund expires in the current financial year.

The U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee in a report filed with the draft Defence Bill called Pakistan "a long-standing strategic partner" and

their versions of the Defence Bill, now a conference committee will be formed to develop a consensus draft. After the consensus draft is passed from both houses of the Congress again, it will be sent to the President for signature.

Senator John McCain, who chairs the Senate Armed Services Committee, had introduced the US Senate approves $800m fund to Pak stressed on the need to continue a strong relationship with the country.

It also noted that after 9/ 11, Islamabad has been a

vital partner of Washington in efforts to combat terrorism in South Asia.

While both houses of the Congress have passed

bill late last month. The bill also requires Islamabad to keep open ground communication lines to Afghanistan for receiving reimbursements from this fund. The House of Representatives last week also passed another bill, which linked $450m from a total of $900m proposed for Pakistan to take action against the Haqqani network.(ANI)

"The $800 million has been authorized under a provision called the `Pakistan Security Enhancement Authorisation"

India's entry into NSG will break India-Pak nuclear balance Beijing, Jun 16 : Acknowledging that India is "inching closer" to get membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group, Chinese official media today said if New Delhi is admitted into the elite grouping, "nuclear balance" between India and Pakistan will be broken.

Stating that India's entry into Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) will "shake strategic balance in South Asia and even cast a cloud over peace and stability in the entire Asia-Pacific region", an article in the state-run 'Global Times' however said China could support India's inclusion in the 48 member nuclear club if it "played by rules".

Written by Fu Xiaoqiang research fellow with the state-run think tank China Institutes of Contemporary International Relations, the article a second in as many days by the same daily highlights China's strident and vocal opposition to

India's entry into NSG and concerns that its all weather ally Pakistan will be left behind because "entry into the NSG will make it (India) a 'legitimate nuclear power'."

"New Delhi seems to have inched closer to NSG membership after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi gained backing from the US, Swiss and Mexico in its bid to join the elite nuclear club earlier this month," the article said mentioning for the first time India's progress in getting support from Mexico and Switzerland.

"Becoming a member of the NSG, a bloc that governs civilian nuclear trade worldwide, will grant India global acceptance as a legitimate nuclear power," said the article titled "Beijing could support India's NSG accession path if it plays by rules".

A commentary in the same daily on June 14 had said that India's ad-

mission into NSG would "jeopardise" China's national interest and touch a "raw nerve" in Pakistan.

"If it joins the group, New Delhi will be able to import civilian nuclear technology and fuels from the international market more conveniently, while saving its domestic nuclear materials for military use," said the article , a tabloid daily which is part of the ruling Communist Party of China group of publications headed by People's Daily.

"The major goal for India's NSG ambition is to obtain an edge over Islamabad in nuclear capabilities. Once New Delhi gets the membership first, the nuclear balance between India and Pakistan will be broken," it said.

"As a result, Pakistan's strategic interests will be threatened, which will in turn shake the strategic balance in South Asia, and even cast a cloud

India's entry into NSG will break India-Pak nuclear balance over peace and stability in the entire Asia-Pacific region," it said.

The reason why India has scored a big win in garnering support for its NSG membership from some countries is because Washington has started to treat New

Delhi as part of the US alliance, the write-up said. "It was only several years ago that Modi could not even get a US visa, but now he has visited the US more often than any other country during his two years in office," it said.(PTI)

President Pranab Mukherjee lowed by a 21-gun salute ing of bilateral agreeand an inspection of a ments. guard of honour, besides In the afternoon, the introductions and a cul- president will proceed to tural programme. the Parliament of The ceremonial function Namibia, where he will will be followed with a deliver an address after one-to-one meeting and being welcomed by the delegation-level talks Speaker of the National between the two sides, Assembly Peter the signing of the Katjavivi and Chairpervisitor's book and a sign- son of the National

Council Margret Mensah Williams.

He will then proceed to the Independence Memorial Museum, where he will be escorted by Namibia's Education, Arts and Culture Minister Katrina Hanse Himarwa and museum director Esther Mwoombola Goagoses.

In the evening, he will be hounoured by a state banquet at the State House. On Friday, President Mukherjee will visit Heroes Acres to lay a wreath and thereafter will depart for the Namibia University of Science and Technology where he will deliver an address to faculty and students.The Indian delegation will then be taken to the Okapuka Ranch, a wildlife park, for a tour.

On Friday afternoon, President Mukherjee will meet Namibia's Founding President Sam Nujoma and another former president Hifikepunye Pohamba.

He will also address the Indian community at a reception hosted in his honour before concluding his official state visit.

Earlier on Wednesday, the President was received at the Hosea Kutako International Airport by Namibia's Deputy Prime Minister Ms. Nandi Ndaitwah Netumbo. Mrs. Doreen Sioka, Minister of Gender Equality and Child Welfare and Minister in Waiting, Chief of Protocol Neville Gertze and India's High Commissioner to Namibia Kumar Tuhin. (ANI)

Torkham row: Afghanistan asks US to pressurize Pak to step back Kabul, June 16: As the standoff between Afghanistan and Pakistan continues over the Torkham border issue, the Afghan government has asked the U.S to put pressure on Islamabad to step back and let diplomatic efforts resolve the dispute.

The Afghan government officials yesterday asked Washington to exert new pressure on Islamabad to change its border policy and to stop creating further tension.

"The Americans have always supported the position of Afghanistan and

we hope that this support will continue and increase. We hope that the problems which we have with our neighbors, particularly with Pakistan, are settled through increased diplomatic pressure," Tolo News quoted Ministry of Interior Affairs spokesman Sediq Sediqqi as saying.

The statement from the Afghan side came after Washington said that it was closely watching the ongoing tension between both countries in the aftermath of the recent clash at Torkham border

gate which has resulted in casualties on both sides.

Tension between both neighbours has sparked strong reactions among Afghans in general calling the U.S. to intervene into the matter.

The Torkham dispute is not the first such incident. In the past too, similar incidents of firing has taken place between the two nations.

Pakistan says it is building the gate to stop militants from crossing the border.

Firing between the two

Pak urges UN rights body to look into drone attacks breaching sovereignty Islamabad, June 16: In a veiled attack on the United States, Pakistan has urged the UN Human Rights Council to respond to loss of lives, human rights violations and breach of its territorial sovereignty due to the drone attacks in the country.

In a press release issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Pakistan's permanent representative at the UN, Tehmina Janjua, while speaking at a meeting of the council in Geneva pointed out that the drone strikes were also a violation of the UN char-

ter and international law, including human rights and humanitarian law, reports .

Islamabad said it has time and again reiterated that the use of armed drones or remotely-piloted aircraft was a breach of human rights, particularly the non-derogable right.

Ambassador Janjua also asked the international community and the Human Rights Council to take notice of human rights violations taking place as a result of illegal drone strikes in the country. (ANI)

" It has time and again reiterated that the use of armed drones or remotelypiloted aircraft was a breach of human rights, particularly the nonderogable right."

Bangladeshi publisher Tutul's 'attacker' held by police

"The major goal for India's NSG ambition is to obtain an edge over Islamabad in nuclear capabilities.

Once New Delhi gets the membership first, the nuclear balance between India and Pakistan will be broken."

President Mukherjee arrives in Namibia Windhoek (Namibia), June 16 : President Pranab Mukherjee, who arrived here late last night from Abidjan (Cote D Ivoire) on the final leg of his three-nation six-day state visit, will have a packed schedule over the next two days.

The day will commence with a ceremonial reception at the State House in Windhoek. President Mukherjee will be received by his Namibian counterpart President Hage Geingob, Vice President Saara KuugongelwaAmadhila, Prime Minister Nandi Ndaitwah Netumbo and other Namibian dignitaries.

The national anthem of the two countries will be played and will be fol-

Pak urges UN rights body to look into drone attacks breaching sovereignty

countries first broke out on Sunday after the Afghan forces prevented Pakistanis from constructing a gate at Torkham.

Afghanistan has blocked repeated attempts by Pakistan to build a fence on sections of the roughly

2,200-km-long frontier, rejecting the contours of the boundary.

Meanwhile, both Afghan and Pakistani authorities have agreed on a ceasefire at Torkham after three days of intense tensions that led to heavy clashes. (ANI)

"The Americans have always supported the position of Afghanistan and we hope that this support will continue and increase. We hope that the problems which we have with our neighbors, particularly with Pakistan, are settled through increased diplomatic pressure,"

Bangladeshi publisher Tutul's 'attacker' held by police Dhaka, June 16 : The law enforcers on Thursday claimed to have arrested a militant, who directly took part in the murder attempt on Bangladeshi publisher Ahmedur Rashid Tutul last year.

Identified as Shihab alias Saiful alias Sumon alias Shakib, he is said to be a member of the banned militant outfit Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT) - a group accredited with several militant killings, reports .Deputy Commissioner of Dhaka Metropolitan Police (DMP) media wing, Masudur Rahman, said Shihab was arrested from airport road in Dhaka last night.

The Bangladesh Police had circulated photos and placed a bounty on the heads of some militants on May 19 this year, including Tk 2 lakh bounty on Shihab's head.

Unknown assailants hacked to death Faisal Arefin Dipan of Jagriti Prokashani and attacked Ahmedur Rashid

Tutul on October last year.

Tutul's publishing house 'Shuddhoswar', whose publications were deemed blasphemous by extremists, had reportedly published writings of local secular writers.

Suddhashar won the Shaheed Munir Chowdhury Award in 2013 and Tutul was nominated for the IPA Freedom to Publish Prize 2016.

Tutul and two bloggers Ranadipam Basu and Tareque Rahim came under machete attacks at the Lalmatia office of Shuddhoswar. A group "Ansar Al Islam" (al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent's Bangladesh branch) claimed responsibility of the attacks through an email sent to different media outlets.

Shihab's arrest comes amid countrywide mass crackdown launched by the government in the wake of rising attacks. So far, the authorities have detained over 11,000 people, mostly warranted criminals. (ANI)

34 migrants found dead in Niger desert: authorities Niamey, Jun 16 : The bodies of 34 migrants, including 20 children, who were abandoned by people smugglers while trying to reach neighbouring Algeria were found in the Niger desert last week, authorities have said.

"Thirty-four people, including five men, nine women and 20 children died trying to cross the desert," Niger's interior ministry yesterday said in a statement.

"They probably died of thirst, as is often the case, and they were found near Assamaka," a security source told , referring to a border post between Niger and Algeria. "(The migrants) were abandoned by

people smugglers," the statement added, and only two of the bodies have so far been identified - a man and a 26year-old woman both from Niger.

Thousands of illegal migrants have arrived in Algeria in recent years, mostly from neighbouring Mali and Niger. Libya used to play host to the majority of migrants in sub-Saharan Africa, but since that country descended into chaos following the ousting of Moamer Kadhafi, Algeria has become the main destination for the region's migrants. Many transit through Algeria headed for Europe.(PTI)

PAGE 8

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 17

Razakar's founder Yusuf died a forlorn death Record breaking summer Hottest May Global temperature records were broken yet again in May this year, according to data released

by NASA, which also found that the northern hemisphere witnessed the (Photo:mypicin) hottest spring ever. The heat has been especially pronounced in the Arctic, resulting in a very early onset of the annual melting of the Arctic sea ice and the Greenland ice sheet. Snow cover in the northern hemisphere was exceptionally low. The record temperatures in May were accompanied by other extreme events, including very heavy precipitation in parts of Europe and the southern US, and widespread and severe coral reef bleaching. The strong El Nino - which has now dissipated - fuelled the high temperatures witnessed so far in 2016. However, the underlying cause of global warming remains greenhouse gases in the atmosphere due to human activities, according to the World Meteorological Organisation. A team of climate scientists led by the UK's Met Office have also found that human-caused rise in the atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide is being given an extra boost this year by the El Nino. This would make 2016 the first year with concentrations above 400 parts per million (ppm) all year round. May 2016 also set a new record low for the month for the period of satellite observations, at 12.0 million square kilometres, following on previous record lows this year in January, February, and April, according to the US National Snow and Ice Data Centre. May's average ice extent is 580,000 square kilometres below the previous record low for the month set in 2004, and 1.39 million square kilometres below the 1981 to 2010 long-term average. During the month, daily sea ice extents tracked about 600,000 square kilometres below any previous year in the 38year satellite record. The monthly average extent for May 2016 is more than one million square kilometres below that observed in May 2012. The Northern Hemisphere had exceptionally low snow coverage for both April and May of 2016 and a record low spring (March, April, and May), as reported from 50 years of mapping by Rutgers University's Global Snow Lab. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration announced on May 20 that Barrow, Alaska recorded the earliest snowmelt in 78 years of recorded climate history. Typically snow retreats in late June or early July, but this year the snowmelt began on May 13, ten days earlier than the previous record for that location set in 2002.

The analysis of global surface temperatures in May from the US space agency reports that last month was also the eighth warmest month recorded since records began in 1880. NASA reports that the average global temperature anomaly in May was +0.93oC, sharply down on the +1.09oC reported in April and the +1.29oC reported in March, respectively the warmest April and warmest March on record, and also down on the record-breaking +1.33oC reported in February - the warmest month in the NASA data archive.

This increase in temperature is only a result of the ever increasing global warming.

Orlando Mass Shooting The attack has been the center of world attention The FBI has identified 29-year-old Omar Mir Seddique Mateen, a New York-born resident of Florida, as the gunman in the worst mass shooting in the country's history. Mateen, who was described by President Barack Obama as "a person filled with hate", attacked nightclub in Orlando early on Sunday, killing at least 50 people and injuring 53 others.

The attack has been the center of world attention.

According to head of the FBI in Orlando, they first became aware of Mateen in 2013, when he made inflammatory comments to co-workers alleging possible terrorist ties. In that incident, the FBI interviewed Mateen twice, and carried out separate interviews with other witnesses, as well as physical surveillance and checks on his records. In 2014, authorities interrogated Mateen anew for possible ties to an American suicide bomber, Moner Mohammad Abusalha, who appeared in an al-Nusra Front video in Syria. There has been no claim of responsibility for the attack on jihadi forums, but ISIS sympathizers have reacted by praising the attack on pro-Islamic State forums.

The Orlando shooting is not the biggest mass killing in U.S. history. That title would go to the Oklahoma City bombing in 1995, where 168 people died.

The 9/11 attacks would not qualify since it was an act of international terrorism, despite the deaths of 2,977 people, not including the attackers. And the attack in Orlando may be the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history, but other shootings were deadliest for specific locations. The 2012 shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School, for example, where 27 people were killed, is the deadliest mass shooting in a high school or grade school in U.S. history. But that wasn't the deadliest mass killing at a school in U.S. history. In 1927, 58 people died in a firebombing at the Bath Consolidated School in Michigan.

Rupak Bhattacharjee Unlike the death of former chief of Jamaat-eIslami Ghulam Azam, who had attracted wide media attention, the passing away of his party colleague and founder of notorious Razakar Bahini, Maulana Abul Kalam Mohammad Yusuf on February 9, 2014 did not evoke much interest. While Azam died when he was serving a prison term, Yusuf breathed his last at the prison cell of Bangahbandu Sheikh Mujib Medical University before the completion of his trial for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity.

The trial of war crimes suspect Yusuf was at the final stage. Vice president of Jamaat died at the age of 87.

His death was a setback for the country's largest Islamist party as he also held the position of interim chief of Jamaat after the arrest of party ameer (chief) Matiur Rahman Nizami in February 2012. Besides, Yusuf was the alleged architect of the infamous "Dakra massacre" in 1971.

Yusuf was well known in the country as the founder of the pro-Pakistani militia Razakar Bahini. The term "Razakar" has been derived from an Arabic word meaning "volunteer". In the historical background of Islam, Razakars were volunteers to support and protect the religion. But in the context of Bangladesh's political history, Razakars were traitors or collaborators of the marauding Pakistani armed forces. They were notorious for their operations targeting innocent ci-

vilians and persons sympathetic to the cause of Bangladesh's independence.

The war crimes tribunal officer entrusted with the task of probing Yusuf's alleged involvement in wartime atrocities noted that he coined the term "Razakar" for the auxiliary force created to assist the Pakistan Army in its efforts to crush the Bengalees' armed struggle for independence.

The investigation of Yusuf's alleged war crimes began on January 22, 2012.

People of Khulna-Yusuf's native district, reportedly informed the investigation team that he forced many people to join the Razakar militia. The investigation officer submitted his report on April 22, 2013.

Subsequently, on May 8, the prosecution submitted formal charges against Yusuf. The prosecution of International Crimes Tribunal (ICT)-2 brought 15 charges of crimes against humanity, including murder, genocide, rape, abduction, confinement, torture and forceful religious conversion allegedly committed

by Yusuf in the greater Khulna region during the war.

The prosecution charged the senior fundamentalist leader with the murder of eight people and mass killing of 700 others, looting 300 houses and 400 shops and forcing 200 Hindus to convert into Islam. The charges against Yusuf clearly mentioned that he was in a superior position with command responsibility and assisted the Paki-

stani forces by providing directives and suggestions.

According to one prosecutor, Yusuf was one of the most influential Islamist leaders in 1971 and used his position for all dubious things.

On May 12, 2013, the tribunal took into cognizance the charges against Yusuf and he was arrested from his residence in Dhaka on the same day.

Yusuf was indicted on August1, 2013 and his trial began on September 5.

Yusuf played a leading part in the religious fanatics' all-out efforts to resist East Pakistan's secession from the west. Prosecutors pointed out that the war crimes accused served as the deputy chief of Jamaat in 1971. He was also a member of the party's decision making bodyMajlis-e-Shura. Furthermore, Yusuf joined the puppet Malek Cabinet of East Pakistan as a minister during the war period.

Liberation War records and documents indicate that Yusuf's responsibilities were to issue statements, organise anti-liberation forces and attacks, killing, looting and arson by his groups. He also assisted the Pakistan Army in all such misadventures throughout the war period. While appreciating the role of Razakars in a public rally on October 10, 1971, he said, "We will have to make people understand that so called Bangladesh concept created by Indian authorities is valueless.

Naxalites, separatists and criminals are trying to create anarchy in this part of the country".

On the basis of the findings of the ICT's investigation team, the prosecutors claimed that Yusuf established the Razakar force on May 5, 1971 with 96 activ-

A file photo of war crimes accused Jamaat-e-Islami leader AKM Yusuf (Photo: dhakatribune.) ists of Islami Chhatra Sangha, Jamaat's student wing, at an Ansar (home guard) camp in Khulna. He became the convenor of the newly formed militia.

Moreover, he became greater Khulna chairman of Peace Committee---a network of committees consisting of elderly and prominent citizens formed throughout East Pakistan that provided crucial link between the military junta of Yahya Khan and local people.

Yusuf had set up Peace Committees in every subdivision, police station and union in the Khulna region and organised members for Razakar Bahini. During the trial proceedings, the prosecution repeatedly stressed that Yusuf led all the antiliberation-Peace Committee, Razakar Bahini, AlBadr and Al-Shams in Khulna.

Yusuf played the most despicable role in "Dakra massacre". It was one of the most significant acts of violence unleashed by the Razakars against the minorities in the history of

Bangladesh. On May 21, 1971, approximately 4000 Hindus from about 22 villages assembled at the famous Kali temple of Dakra near Bagerhat in Khulna district. The refugees had been using the village as transit while fleeing to India. After receiving order from Yusuf, a group of 2025 local Razakars stormed into the temple premise and indiscriminately killed nearly 700 people, including the priest of the temple, women and children. Reports of 1971 say Razakars charged bayonets and knives on the injured to ensure their death. This particular incident defies justification and could only be compared to the barbaric acts of Nazis perpetrated against the Jews during the World War II. Yusuf was arrested immediately after the liberation of Bangladesh and sentenced to life imprisonment under the Collaborator Order-1972 but was released from jail on December 5, 1973 following the Mujib government's declaration of general amnesty. In post-independent Bangladesh,

Yusuf became the general secretary of Jamaat.

Several former freedom fighters lament that the trial process of a noted war crimes suspect like Yusuf could not be completed.

While testifying against Yusuf as prosecution witnesses, some of them narrated incidents where the accused ordered and oversaw the killings. On February 5, 2014, the ICT-2 had set February 12 for prosecution to sum-up arguments in the case. However, the octogenarian breathed his last in a massive cardiac arrest just three days before the next hearing.

Yusuf in his bid to portray himself as an Islamic cleric used "Maulana" before his name. A tiny section of Bangladeshi media controlled by the orthodox religious groups have been projecting Yusuf as an Islamic scholar and philanthropist. However, the secular-nationalist groups of Bangladesh have ridiculed Yusuf's "religious musk" and maintained that he will always be remembered as traitor in the history of the Bengali nation.

India's Israel Disconnect: Rhetoric vs. Reality Part I Why the BJP's love of Israel will do little to change India's foreign policy.

"India may end support to change to what he called the Palestine at UN," read the wrongful viewing of foreign headline of the popular In- policy "as a choice between dian newspaper, The Hindu, two polar extremes." in December 2014. Similar Despite the rejection of this headlines resonated rumor by the Government of throughout media outlets in India, the sense of a possible India and Ischange still rael with an lingers on. The Dhirenn Nair influential Isoccurrence of raeli newspathe seismic per, Haaretz, relating the ru- shift, which would constitute mors that emerged after the a radical change in India's landslide electoral victory policy toward Palestine, of Narendra Modi and his would not be entirely unexHindu nationalist party in pected. This is due to the burMay 2014. Such rumors geoning relations between Inwere put to rest, at least in dia and Israel, two nations the media, when the spokes- which just three decades ago person for the Ministry of did not maintain normal dipExternal Affairs, in re- lomatic relations. Trade has sponse to a question on the grown from $200 million in matter, stated that "there is 1992 to over $5 billion in no change in our (India's) 2015 and the defense relapolicy of extending tradi- tionship has also deepened, tionally strong support for with New Delhi said to be on the Palestinian cause while the verge of signing a $3 bilmaintaining good relations lion arms deal with Israel. In with Israel." He went on to addition to the closer ecoattribute rumors of such a nomic and defense ties, Modi

is expected to become the first Indian prime minister to visit Israel in a highly anticipated trip later this year.

Furthermore, his party, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has long espoused decidedly pro-Israel sentiments and rhetoric. Notably, the inaugural visit by an Israeli prime minister to India took place in 2003, when the BJP was at the helm of federal power in India.

However, despite indications of such a shift, India's approach to Israel and Palestine, and by extension the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, point to what is largely a continuation of its two-decade-old policy on the issue-despite warmer relations with Israel. This is evident in New Delhi's voting pattern on matters relating to the conflict at the United Nations. In both 2015 and 2016, India abstained from

voting on a resolution calling for Israel to face the International Criminal Court for war crimes committed during its Gaza offensive.

The abstention was a shock to the Palestinians. At the same time, India voted for a resolution on the creation of a database of companies operating within illegal Israeli settlements, a move which could facilitate the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement against Israel. India appears to be maintaining its balancing act of Palestinian solidarity in tandem with cordial relations with Israel.

The main question now is why the Modi government has not rejected the continuation of such an act and pivoted toward a pro-Israel position politically, a position which is more aligned with that of the BJP? The answer lies in the history of India's relationship with Israel and

Palestine.

In the broader historical context, India's relationships with these two entities have been defined and molded by internal and external constraints. India's earliest position on the conflict was framed through its experience of colonialism at the hands of the British Empire; a 1938 Indian National Congress resolution deplored "that in Palestine, the Jews have relied on British armed forces to advance their special privileges and thus aligned themselves on the side of British imperialism."

This association of the Jews in Palestine with the colonizers - the same colonizers who, at the time, were the colonial masters of India further consolidated Indian support for the Palestinian cause.

Later, when the UN Special Committee on Palestine recommended partition, India

A Laudable Step

Image for representational purpose (Photo: images.reachsite)

Sir, There had always been a sense of depression among the poor people from the beginning to till now. But brilliant students along with their parents know the process for prosecute further studies for want of money. In our Childhood, we heard many times of some cases of the poor students studying in the Assam Medical College that keeping abreast of their tough course of medical study. Some poor students had to take recourse to private tuition to support their family financially. The poor students can't afford higher studies cause of financial problems.

Some of the NGOs and private sectors are providing or helping the poor children's to get their study and giving them food for twice in a day.

The govt. helping the NGOs for their work. The govt. is providing scholarship for the brilliant student. Of course, money received by the way of scholarship, too, did play a pivotal role for the poor. In other spheres we had also seen poor students with brilliant academic back ground taking to private tuition or some other petty private jobs to support them simultaneously while continuing their studies. Some of these poor students did exceptionally well in their service career, adorning very exalted posts subsequently. The new ruling dispensation of Assam, after assuming office took certain laudable steps to address the vital problem confronting the poor brilliant students prosecuting higher stud-

ies. Dispur had decided to reduce/waive fees for the girls or for the poor students under BPL which brings relief too many such students. But as we have noticed with concern, some wellto-do families, too, could obtain BPL card to enjoy the benefits which are meant for the poor's. The state government should do some well steps to nab such persons. Like the govt. should concern about the documents that those are writing BPL in their documents are rite or wrong. Further, we like to add that our Education minister should not have suspended that the hapless Principal on the spot; rather the principal should have been served a show cause notice. In some of the work places the attendance of the state employees and also some of the teachers is a matter of concern. During my stint in Dhenaji, I saw a daughter-in-law taught in a particular L.P. School whereas her fatherin-law who was the actual teacher. There were myriad of such instances, the cooks too, sometimes teach students who call him, Randhani Sir. This practice should be bridled with iron hand.

Yours etc.

Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh

opposed it and, following the establishment of the State of Israel, India voted against her admission into the United Nations. Nonetheless, India's prime minister at the time, Jawaharlal Nehru, did not completely rule out possible future relations with Israel; in the aftermath of Israel's admission to the UN, Nehru wrote that "We [India] shall have to consider our future policy in regard to it [Israel's admission to the UN.]" Then, in September 1950, India recognized the existence of Israel with the issuance of the following statement by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA): "The Government of India has decided to accord recognition to the Government of Israel." However, diplomatic recognition would have to wait another 40 years. To be contd Courtesy: The Diplomat

Best Letter The best letter

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

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

p O

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 17

Page 9

ed

What The Rat Race For College Admissions Made Me Realise The day was upon us. We of March. It has been a crossed our fingers and relentless continuum, wished desperately for leaving us no time to the best, switched on our even ponder over school computers in trepid an- getting over after 14 ticipation and punched in long years. And suddenly our roll numbers with one wakes up to the hard staccato presses on the fact that college and evkeyboard, torn between erything it stands for, instopping the page from cluding adulthood, beckopening and willing it to ons impatiently. One starts preparing for the load faster.

Result decnext logical larations are Ananya Kumar step which is trying to scary, even more so than the exam secure admission in a days. Especially when 'decent' college. they have something to Whether it be an endo with class 12 and the trance exam written for obvious step after it, col- entry into a reputed institution or the 'best of lege.

Pre-boards in December four' calculated to check and January, a series of if it meets a certain cutfarewells in February fol- off, applying for college lowed by the board ex- after school is often unams all through the month predictable and akin to a

gamble given the large number of applicants and the small number of seats available. Not that that's something bad, to be honest. If nothing else, it motivates one to do their best and explore all available options.

Options are key in this whole process. Backups and backups of backups are necessary if one has to make it through.

Whether it be rushing to apply to the UK because their application portal is less complicated, giving a last ditch attempt at the SAT or filling the forms of a private university, we've all had to take steps understandably to ensure a seat somewhere.

It's a pretty tedious task,

come to think of it.

Scouring the internet for information on various institutes and universities and deciding on those that could be viable options. Not to mention filling multiple forms and uploading the same documents everywhere but with different size limits. 10-20 KB will soon be the death of me.

The race against time continues every day as one tries his/her best to keep up with the various deadlines, submit all the required documents and sort out all that is available. One wakes up in the morning and checks their mail the first thing and the university portals the next

(most of which crash, sadly). It is a constant struggle to make the choice between course vs. college, private vs. government, central university vs. state university, staying in the same city vs. staying in a hostel in another. In today's day and age, there are various factors other than the love for a certain subject that determine what one studies over the next three (or four) years. Magic numbers declared by faceless authorities are what often dictate one's destiny.

Or do they?

While there are a few new kids on the block like Ashoka University and Shiv Nadar University with solid credentials re-

Image for representational purpose (Photo: kenshoo) garding world class infrastructure and accomplished faculty, they are still at the bottom of the table and are backups for most.

Monolithic, bureaucratic structures resistant to change, with the government as the Big Brother watching over the process, continue to be a top preference for the majority.

All said and done, the joy one feels at getting the first ever acceptance letter after having performed well

in an interview, writing a good essay and meeting the predicted grades is indescribable. It suddenly feels worth it. After being defined by a number/ grade by everybody around you, one starts to believe that one is more than just that.

As Doris Day once sang, "When I was just a little girl I asked my mother What will I be Will I be pretty

Will I be rich Here's what she said to me Que sera, sera Whatever will be, will be The future's not ours to see Que sera, sera What will be, will be."

Here's to the learners, the stumblers, the achievers, the in-betweens, the happy, the sad, the dreamers, the imaginers, the students! We'll find our unique place under the sun.

Udta Bengaluru: How South India's 'Drug Capital' Is On A Dangerous High

India's 'Corrupt Political System' Might Be Our Own Fault

Let's admit it. The film pills, ganja, heroin, cocaine Facebook page."

Karnataka State Tem'Udta Punjab' lays bare the and MDMA- LSD stood There is, however, a perance Board, fact that Punjab is in de- out. In February 2014, the downside to creating Bengaluru, in 2012, about nial that a major chunk of NCB confiscated 63 LSD awareness in the virtual 30% of school and colthe state's population, both blots and 23 LSD blots in world. Experts working lege students in young and old, rural and October the same year. for rehabilitation of addicts Bengaluru are drug adurban, are battling a drug Four-five blots come to say online platforms such dicts. The Board is an epidemic. But it's not about 0.2 grams of the as Facebook and Twitter autonomous body, workPunjabalone b a n n e d could prove counter-pro- ing under the Karnataka which is Maitreyee Boruah drug and ductive. government, entrusted a w a s h each blot "Because of the social with the task of eradicatwith drugs. can either be a tiny piece stigma attached with ad- ing alcoholism and hazBengaluru is facing similar of paper (difficult to mea- diction, neither addicts nor ardous drug addiction. problems. The question is, sure) or even hidden in their families talk about The city has 16 licensed will it take an 'Udta regular looking sugar the problem openly. We rehabilitation centres, inBengaluru' to wake up the cubes. avoid interacting with cluding the Centre for Karnataka government to In 2015, the agency in six people on Facebook and Addiction Medicine at the the scourge eating into its separate cases seized Twitter," says Vivek M, National Institute of Meninnards?

LSD blot, LSD-laced President, Rehabilitation tal Health and NeuroUdta Bengaluru, Udta sugar cubes and LSD blot from Alcohol, Substance sciences (NIMHANS), Drug Abuse papers.

Abuse Prevention Bengaluru.

The growing number of In 2016, so far, as many (RASP), a licensed reha- Drug rehabilitation cendrug rackets busted by the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Bengaluru, in the last two years is a clear indication of rampant drug abuse in the IT city. In 2014, NCB Bengaluru, busted eight drug rackets.

The number went up to 17 in 2015, as per the data available with the agency.

The concern was discussed in a meeting at NCB's head office in Delhi too, a senior official looking after operations told Youth Ki Awaaz.

According to NCB officials, youngsters are more Image for representational purpose (Photo: beat.drugabuse) vulnerable to drug addiction. Drug peddlers know as 165 LSD blots (1.66 bilitation centre. tres observe that children this and prey mostly on gram) have been im- Vivek's concern doesn't as young as 13 years are them. pounded. seem entirely unfounded. getting addicted.

For the record, Bengaluru Though these quantities If the response to aware- "We have in-house pawith a huge floating popu- might seem very small, a ness campaigns and re- tients as young as 11 lation, is infamous as the very expensive drug, 1 quests for information on years old also," Vivek 'drug capital' of south In- gram of LSD can make social media is any indica- confessed to Youth Ki dia. for as many as 30,000 tion, this post shared by Awaaz.

On the basis of raids con- doses of the banned sub- the NCB on Facebook in Tip Of The Iceberg ducted by the NCB, the stance, with the market June 25, 2015 got only Saif Sadiq, a reformed drug most popular among value of each dose rang- three 'Likes' in a year. drug addict-turned-outBengaluru's youth is LSD ing from Rs 2,000 to Rs Even though the agency reach worker who works (Lysergic acid diethyla- 10,000. Now do the math. claims to have received in his neighbourhood on mide also known as acid), Asked if the usage of several tip-offs over Tannery Road, says, "On followed by hashish, ec- LSD has increased in phone because of such Tannery Road, every stasy pills, ganja, heroin, Bengaluru over the years, public appeals, officials household, and every lane cocaine and MDMA, a Sinha says, "We can't admit no victim of drugs has drug users." Sadiq's pure form of ecstasy that confirm the amount of would openly share infor- claim may sound a bit of goes by the street name usage, but high detection mation about the networks an exaggeration but sta'molly'. definitely points to high supplying drugs in the city tistics also indicate the Mostly sold soaked-dry in demand." same.

In 2015, on Facebook. tiny blotter paper, sugar Social Media & Social "It's risky. Drug trade is a Bengaluru-based NGO cubes or gelatin, even 0.1 Stigma law and order problem, a Sangama, along with the gram LSD is of consider- To counter the drug men- crime. Most of our callers Karnataka State AIDS able commercial value. ace, NCB, Bengaluru de- are anonymous. We keep Prevention Society Sunil Kumar Sinha, zonal cided to take its fight public the identity of all our in- (KSAPS), identified director, NCB, Bengaluru back in June 2014 and formers secret," says around 534 drug users on told Youth Ki Awaaz that launched a Facebook Sinha.

Tannery Road and DJ LSD "can be easily con- page for the same. The The Facebook page of the Halli, a neighbouring locealed anywhere, and de- move was intended to NCB, Bengaluru chapter, cality. tection is very difficult." reach out to the tech- had 560 'Likes' at the time "The number, 534 'injectStill, NCB officials have savvy young population of of filing this report. ing drug users' (IDUs), seized a significant amount the city and create aware- The Addiction Starts covers only those who of the prohibited contra- ness on drug abuse. have come out in the open Young band entering the IT city On the feedback received Rampant mostly among and are seeking rehabiliin recent years. It is be- on Facebook, Sinha youngsters, drug addiction tation. It is just the tip of lieved to be routed to the claims, "A lot of people in Bengaluru, though, is not the iceberg," says Baiju city via Goa from various have shared important in- restricted to a particular Satyan, Sadiq's colleague European countries. formation about drug age group, sex and class and a former IDU. Sample this: In 2014, of all rackets, traffickers and in society, say experts. Satyan, 35, who was a drug seizures, which in- users over phone after According to a survey call centre employee, lost cluded hashish, ecstasy following us on our conducted by the his job because of his ad-

We still live in a world of switched from the king to Can A Poor Or rulers and subjects. the voter with the advent Middle-Class Candidate Win Elections?

Whether this an evolu- of democracy in India?

If the support of the mationary trait or a matter Who Is At Fault? of social order as some In a democracy, a gov- jority can be 'earned' by political philosophers ernment is shaped by the spending money, the vicmay theorise is still a people. A leader in tory has nothing to do matter of research. Be- power can be done with party manifestoes, fore democracy came, away with in the next agendas or ideologies. election. If Social work and public freebies none of the service, then, do not formed an Nikita Bishnoi options suit seem to be the rational integral part of day to day public in- the voter, the power to logic for public support. teraction of the ruler. vote 'NOTA' or 'none of In such a case a poor or These freebies were the above' lies in the middle-class candidate given as a gift, not de- hands of the voter. It who cannot shower manding favours in re- would not be wrong to money has almost no turn since the dynastic say that the people rule chances of winning an ruler was wealthy and in the world's largest de- election. Moreover, we mocracy. But by accept- might be losing an able powerful.

In today's context, free- ing freebies, are we not leader at the hands of our bies still form an integral proving ourselves to be own system! This not part of the public inter- corrupt? By making the only ceases the chances action only that the inter- favour of voting for of the 'not so privileged action is more prevalent money and gifts, are we individuals' becoming the before 'elections'. We still seem to regard our leaders as rulers. We still regard the people who represent us as all-powerful generous dukes!

This decreases their accountability towards the people of India. 'Candies' in the form of freebies prove to be a vote charmer.

In recent elections that took place in several Image for representational purpose (Photo: states, anything from a i.dawn) mixer grinder to gold and television sets proved to not responsible for de- leaders of tomorrow but be a candy for the people grading the system of also degrades the value who want a king, not a governance? The truth is, of 'social work' and 'publeader or representative. we are at fault for the lic service'.

Be it J. Jayalalithaa or M. decline of our system. When the elected ones Karunanidhi, for ex- Therefore, people should know that it is freebies ample, both boasted be held accountable for and not governance that proudly of their generos- the cycle of bad gover- made them victorious, ity towards poverty- nance. they will make little efstricken subjects of their forts to improve the ad'rule'. Why should we Are We Guilty? ministration. With this, blame only these two Distributing money for more and more candiwhen the news of seized votes is a punishable, cor- dates are motivated not cash and freebies comes rupt practice and so is ac- to break this vicious from everywhere in the cepting money. Accep- cycle of spending money country during elections. tance of money to vote before elections, corrupBe it Bihar, Rajasthan, for a candidate is a cor- tion during governance Uttar Pradesh or any rupt practice of bribery and then spending money other part of the country, under Section 123 (1) of again during the next votes in return for money The Representation of elections. has become a common the People Act, 1951. It phenomenon. is also an offence under On A Final Note‌ Section 171-B of the In- In a democracy, rights Only that sometimes dian Penal Code and is and duties cannot be cash or freebies of any punishable with imprison- separated. One can't just form is caught by the ment of either descrip- enjoy a good governpolice and sometimes it tion for a term which may ing system without is not. Moreover, there extend to one year or shaping it. The probare very less or no ac- with fine or both. lem is, we do not counts of gift candies realise that we are given to the people by the Unfortunately, very little not the victims but the 'elected party' after the is done to punish the culprits of the bad syselections. people who "accept" this tem that we complain form of bribe to cast their a n d b o a s t s o m u c h Are we people holding vote. If candidates fight- about! The choice is bowls in our palms for ing elections are criticised with us, whether to the all-powerful 'rulers' to for illegitimate ways to long for the candies of pour in some sparkling win elections, why not 'freebies and illegiticandy to charm us? Have people who play their m a t e m o n e y ' o r t o we become so ignorant role in this corrupt prac- long for candies of enough to realise that the tice by accepting free- 'good governance and power to rule has been bies and money? accountability'.

diction. "Those were difficult days. I got into drugs during my 20s. I come from a humble background. My parents have always been supportive, but it was under peer pressure that I got into drugs. I was an IDU," Satyan reminisces about his past life.

Talking about his rehabilitation process, he adds, "It is not an easy process.

Thankfully, I have not used drugs for the last five years. I went to a rehabilitation centre to free myself from drugs. There are always chances of relapse. I lead a disciplined life to keep myself away from drugs. We need love and compassion to get back into normal life. Addiction to various substances is considered as a crime. In reality, it is a disease and society should accept it to restrict its spread."

Not Foreign But Desi Enemy Contrary to the general perception that mostly Africans living in India are involved in drug trafficking, the NCB has nabbed a large number of Indians while busting drug rackets. Of the 25 arrests made in 2014, 20 were Indians. In 2015, 23 out of 34 arrested were Indians, according to NCB, Bengaluru. In 2016, so far, two Indians and two foreigners have been arrested by the NCB for their involvement in drug rackets.

Another fact that has come to the notice of the NCB, is how several illegal drug manufacturing units have come up in Karnataka in the last few years. One such unit was busted by the NCB in Mangaluru early this year. According to the agency, the manufacturing unit in the coastal city was run from a home. The racketeers bought the chemicals required over the internet and were manufacturing MDMA. Similarly, officials of the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) busted a factory in the outskirts of the city in April this year, which was manufacturing spurious drugs.

In Punjab, it took almost a decade of government inaction and an election season for the problem of drug abuse to become a matter of national debate.

Is Karnataka too waiting for an election to address the situation?

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 17

BUSINESS

PAGE 10

Microsoft launches its Climb in gold price continues for 6th straight day online store with support Chennai, Jun 16: Powered by a firm global trend and persistent buying by jewellers at the domestic spot market, gold prices climbed for the sixth straight day, gaining Rs 140 to Rs 29,800 per ten grams at the bullion market. Silver also rebounded by Rs 260 to Rs 41,260 per kg due to increased offtake by industrial units and coin makers.

Analysts said a firming global trend where gold climbed to the highest in four weeks as uncer-

tainty mounts over whether Britain will exit the European Union and speculations that the US Fed will keep interest rates unchanged at its two-day meeting that begins later in the day buoyed sentiment here.

Globally, gold rose 0.82 percent to USD 1,283.80 an ounce -- its highest since May 16 -- and silver by 0.72 percent to USD 17.41 an ounce in New York. Furthermore, persistent buying by jewellers at the domestic spot market added to the

ShopClues introduces 'Back to Classroom Gadget Zone' ANI New Delhi, Jun 16: India's first and largest managed marketplace ShopClues has announced the launch of its new 'Back to Classroom-Gadget Zone'.

From laptops starting at Rs. 9,999 and cameras at 50 percent off to the largest collection of storage devices and electronic accessories, this store has everything you need to go back to school in style. Shoppers will be spoilt for choice with the colossal range of gadgets and accessories available at the platform.

They can choose from a category-wise assortment of products, which includes the top 20 bestselling laptops and desktops, monitors at 55 percent off and storage devices discounted up to 70 percent. They can even pick from a wide variety of cost-effective gadgets that include unboxed and refurbished gadgets and appliances

or can shop from the mega deals on such products. Adding to this is a whole range of gadget accessories in the 'Stuff for Your Dorm' section, where shoppers can browse through earphones starting at Rs. 99, best-selling audio systems, fancy selfie sticks and cameras at half the price. They can also visit the 'Gaming Arena' and find an exciting range of games and gaming systems.

The entire store is covered under ShopClues '100 percent buyer protection program' ensuring payment security, product guarantee, easy replacement and trusted merchants. The brand's hassle-free return policy is another boost for shoppers as it enables them to shop with confidence. With easy, quick and convenient return and refund policies, ShopClues is trying to tap the market in its full potential.

Revenue of 'India telcos' mobile data may hit Rs. 95.5K crores in 5yrs

CLIMBING HIGH Powered by a firm global trend and persistent buying by jewellers at the domestic spot market, gold prices climbed for the sixth straight day, gaining Rs 140 to Rs 29,800 per ten grams at the bullion market.

Globally, gold rose 0.82 percent to USD 1,283.80 an ounce -- its highest since May 16 - and silver by 0.72 percent to USD 17.41 an ounce in New York.

In the national capital, gold of 99.9 percent and 99.5 percent purity surged Rs 140 each to Rs 29,800 and Rs 29,650 per ten grams, respectively. It had gained Rs 630 in the last five days. Sovereign, however, shed Rs 100 at Rs 23,000 per piece of eight grams.

Silver also rebounded by Rs 260 to Rs 41,260 per kg due to increased offtake by industrial units and coin makers.

Tracking gold, silver ready recovered Rs 260 to Rs 41,260 per kg and weekly-based delivery by Rs 55 to Rs 41,185 per kg.

upside. The rupee turning weak against the dol-

lar that made the imports precious metals. In the costlier influenced the national capital, gold of

Silver coins too spurted by Rs 1,000 to Rs 70,000 for buying and Rs 71,000 for selling of 100 pieces.

Hopcar merges with Spinny for used cars ANI New Delhi, Jun 16: Delhi based startup Hopcar.in has announced its merger with Spinny, an online marketplace for used cars.

"When working towards making Hopcar.in the preferred choice for customers looking to buy or sell used cars, I met Niraj, the Cofounder and CEO of Spinny. The vision Niraj had for Spinny was very much in line with that of ours for Hopcar," said Arijit. Niraj, an IIT Delhi alumni and a Serial Entrepreneur, cofounded Spinny last year in April along with three other cofounders.

The unique proposition that Spinny brought to the market was an analytically developed 200 point inspection checklist that assesses a car's true condition and it's right price.

This works in two ways.

One by helping the buyer make an informed decision about the purchase and second by helping sellers claim the right price for their cars. "It didn't take us long to figure that just enabling the transaction wasn't going to be enough to establish ourselves in the market.

Customers needed to be provided an avenue they could blindly trust," added Arijit. While Spinny had

been working on incorporating a scientifically developed pricing engine and an algorithm based rating engine in their processes to strengthen the tech side to their business, Hopcar.in was onto something similar.

"Seeing how our visions and approach naturally synced, it only seemed tactful to make concerted rather than disjointed efforts towards the same aim, and hence the merger happened," he added. The merged entity will continue to operate under Spinny's brand name with the

Pune, Jun16: Indian telecom operators are expected to rake in Rs. 95,500 crore in revenues from mobile data services over the next five years, says a report by ICRA. Mobile data revenues are expected to grow at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21 per cent by financial year 2021 and are expected to contribute 34 per cent to the total mobile service earnings, the ratings agency said. At present, mobile data accounts for about 20 per cent of the telecom operators' revenues, the report said.

"Over the last five years, data revenues for the

ICRA Sample of telcos traced a strong CAGR of 54 per cent from Rs. 3,200 crore in FY 201112 to Rs. 27,450 crore in FY 2015-16," ICRA AVP Corporate Sector ratings Harsh Jagnani said. Nevertheless, when compared to international levels, the data revenues as proportion of total mobile service revenues in India are significantly lower, presenting a strong growth driver, he added.

ICRA said the revenue stream of the telecom companies has evolved over the years from being largely driven by voice services to one with a substantial mix of data revenues. (Agencies)

four coÂfounders of Hopcar becoming core team members at Spinny.

With the entry of many new players in the market, the merger places Spinny in an advantageous position in the otherwise still nascent pre owned car market in India. "Having set our foothold in Delhi, we are now streamlining our operations in Bangalore and plan to expand to other Tier I and Tier II cities by the end of this financial year" Niraj states.

The merger is definitely a step ahead in Spinny's continuous endeavors to provide a reliable, data driven, and transparent service to its consumers.

Sluggish supply of tomato leads to high increase in its price Mumbai, Jun 16: Tomato prices in most retail markets across the country have doubled to Rs. 80 per kg in last 15 days due to sluggish supply owing to crop damage.

Earlier this month, prices of tomato - a key kitchen vegetable - were ruling in the range of Rs. 20-40 per kg, as per data maintained by the Consumer Affairs Ministry. Among metros, Chennai recorded the highest price at Rs. 80 per kg on Tuesday compared with Rs. 44 per kg on June 1.

Similarly in Kolkata, the price is ruling at Rs. 60 per kg on Tuesday as against Rs. 30 per kg earlier this month. In Mumbai, rates have risen to Rs. 58 per kg from 38

there, he said, adding that even heat stress in north India has damaged the crop in some parts.

Unlike potato and onion, the shelf life of tomatoes is short. The absence of adequate cold storage facilities in the supply chain contributes to the problem.

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: thehindu) per kg while in Delhi, prices have surged to Rs. 51 per kg from Rs. 25 per kg in the said period, the ministry data showed. "Tomato prices have increased in last 15 days in Delhi. There is no sufficient supply as the crop got damaged in

Haryana and Punjab because of unseasonal rains," Azadpur Tomato Merchants Association President Ashok Kaushik said. Due to rains, the crop in South India has also been affected because of which prices have also risen

World Bank report says 'global investments' decreased in India Image for representational purpose. (Photo: successconnections)

99.9 percent and 99.5 percent purity surged Rs 140 each to Rs 29,800 and Rs 29,650 per ten grams, respectively. It had gained Rs 630 in the last five days. Sovereign, however, shed Rs 100 at Rs 23,000 per piece of eight grams. Tracking gold, silver ready recovered Rs 260 to Rs 41,260 per kg and weekly-based delivery by Rs 55 to Rs 41,185 per kg. Silver coins too spurted by Rs 1,000 to Rs 70,000 for buying and Rs 71,000 for selling of 100 pieces.

(Agencies)

ANI New Delhi, Jun 16: The World Bank in its report stated that India recorded a 10-year low investment in the public-private sector in 2015, adding to contractions that pulled down the global investment below its five-year average of USD 124.1 billion. As per the latest annual report released by the World Bank, the global investment in 2015 decreased to USD 111.6 billion, below the fiveyear average of USD 124.1 billion from 2010 to 2014.

"This contraction resulted from lower investments in Brazil, China and India," the report added.

"India recorded a 10year low in investments, as only six road projects usually a rich source of PPI over the past 10 years reached financial

closure," added the World Bank in its latest report on private participation in Infrastructure Database.

"Consistent with historical trends, India generated a majority of the projects (36 out of 43); Pakistan had four; Nepal, two; and Bangladesh, one.

Notably, 26 of the 36 projects in India, amounting to USD 2.0 billion, targeted renewable energy, while all of Pakistan's projects, totaling USD 749.9 million, solely focused on renewable," it added.

"Investments in China also fell significantly below its five, ten and 20year averages, as the average transaction dropped to USD63 million," it said. India, China and Brazil took the lead with 131 of the 300 glo-

bal deals or 44 percent of all projects. Still their combined investment of USD 11.6 billion only made up 10 percent of the global total, compared to 54 percent in 2014, which was also the annual average over the previous four years. According to the World Bank, global private infrastructure investment in 2015, though on par with the previous year, was 10 percent lower than the previous fiveyear average because of dwindling commitments in the three nations.

Practice Manager Public-Private Partnerships World Bank Group, Clive Harris, said the data finds that investments in other emerging economies increased rapidly to USD 99.9 billion, representing a 92 percent year-over-year increase.

The country's tomato production is estimated at 18.28 million tonnes in the 2015-16 crop year (July-June) as against 16.38 million tonnes in the previous year.

Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, West Bengal and Odisha are the major tomato growing states in the country. (Agencies)

of Tata Group

Country general manager consumer channel group Microsoft India, Priyadarshi Mohapatra.

(Photo: varindia) ANI New Delhi, Jun 16: Multinational technology company Microsoft Corp has launched its online store with Tata CLiQ, the recently launched e-commerce portal of Tata group. The e-commerce platform will allow consumers to purchase Microsoft products such as tablets, computers, software and phones.

Country general manager consumer channel group Microsoft India, Priyadarshi Mohapatra said, "Increasingly consumers are going online to shop for a number of things, including mobiles, devices and software."

"We therefore are ex-

panding our online presence through our official Microsoft store so that our consumers find it easier to experience and buy our products.

We are excited to partner with Tata CLiQ and see tremendous opportunity in delivering Microsoft products and services through them t o o ur customers," Priyadarshi added. Consumers will be able to purchase the products and services through various modes such as click online and pick up at store, return to store and ship from store through a large onground store network of partner brands.

Indraprastha Gas, GAIL shares surge ahead of Mahanagar Gas IPO ANI New Delhi, Jun 16: Indraprastha Gas and State-run GAIL touched a record high of Rs. 614.90, up 5.8 percent intraday ahead of the launch of Mahanagar Gas' initial public offer (IPO). Shares of GAIL also gained nearly two percent intraday Tuesday with both stocks rallying on the back of valuation that is likely to get by Mahanagar Gas through its IPO. According to grey market, the IPO price is likely to be at around Rs. 485 and additionally there is a premium of over Rs. 100. Mahanagar Gas' PE is 19 times more as compared to Indraprastha Gas. Accordingly, the market capitalisation is expected to be around Rs. 4,800-4,900 crore at

Rs. 485 a piece. FY15 diluted earnings per share can be at Rs. 30.54 and price-to-earnings at 16 times. Its EPS in previous financial years has not seen much change.

FY12 EPS comes at Rs. 31.2, FY13 at Rs. 30.28 and FY14 at Rs. 30.15 after assumption of expected IPO price, as the company has not seen any growth in profit in last four years.

On the other hand, Indraprastha Gas, which primarily operates in the Delhi-NCR, is the sole authorized distributor of compressed natural gas ( CNG) and piped natural gas (PNG) in Mumbai.

MGL is promoted by GAIL and BG Group, which holds 49.75 percent stake each in the company.

TECHNOLOGY Sale of OnePlus 3 with gaint 6GB RAM began in India; get it at Rs 27,999 KILLER SMARTPHONE Chinese tech giant OnePlus' flagship killer smartphone -the OnePlus 3 is now available in India. The OnePlus 3 is available on e-commerce site Amazon starting recently.

The OnePlus 3 has been priced at Rs 27,999 and will be available exclusively on Amazon. The OnePlus 3 was launched in the US yesterday.

It comes with 5.5-inch 1080x1920-pixel screen display that has a pixel density of 401ppi.

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: timesofindia.indiatimes) Mumbai, Jun 16: Chinese tech giant OnePlus' flagship killer smartphone -the OnePlus 3 is now available in India. The OnePlus 3 is available on e-commerce site Amazon starting recently. Meanwhile, a lot of fun and excitement was spoiled a day before the official launch of the phone in India by a leading newspaper. The paper had printed an advertisement, thereby revealing everything about the phone. As per the ad in the national paper, the OnePlus 3 has been priced at Rs 27,999 and will be available exclusively on Amazon. The OnePlus 3 was launched in the US. It comes with 5.5-inch

The phone has an Optic AMOLED display and is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 SoC clocked at 2.15 Ghz coupled with a giant 6GB of RAM. The OnePlus 3 comes with an inbuilt memory of 64GB but there are no options for expansion. It will also come with a fingerprint sensor that can unlock the screen in 0.2 seconds.

1080x1920-pixel screen display that has a pixel density of 401ppi. The phone has an Optic AMOLED display and is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 820 SoC clocked at 2.15 Ghz coupled with a giant 6GB of RAM. The OnePlus 3 comes with an inbuilt memory of 64GB but there are no options for expansion. It will also come with a fingerprint sensor that

can unlock the screen in 0.2 seconds. The camera will be of 16MP back and an 8MP fronnt with Smart Capture feature. As for the battery, the OnePlus 3 comes with a 3,650 mAh battery that can easily last for over a day. Besides, it comes with a DASH Charge which can charge the battery up to 60 percent in just 30 minutes. (Agencies)

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 17

Features

PAGE 11

TRAVEL & TOURISM Majuli is a focal centre of Vaishnavite culture. It holds an indispensable place of importance in the preservation and promotion of the vaishnavite way of life and culture.

The immortal works of Srimanta Sankardeva and Madhabdeva in the genre of Naat, Bhaona, Borgeet and others are practiced not only in the Vaishnavite Sattras but also widely preserved all over the riverine island of Majuli. It is a tradition of every village in Majuli to hold the annual Bhaona performances.

Ankiya Bhaona, Matribhasha Bhaona and Sri Krishna Raasleela thus became noteworthy annual festivals.

In these festivals, the use of masks is considered to be indispensable. In this respect we can presume that the art of mask making or rather mask industry has a potential market. Although at present this industry is substantial enough to be included in the realm of indigenous cottage industry, it has been successful in creating a niche in the national as well as in different parts of the international arena. Even though masks are made in different parts of Assam, the contribution of Majuli in mask making is unique.

Mask is one of the ancient achievements of man and can be often considered as a forerunner of art in the formal sense. Masks take on the identity of another being and reveal personalities and moods which the hu-

man face might not be able to portray. In this process it has been recognized as an art form. In Assam, masks were prevalent since time immemorial. From the scarecrow- whether it is the clay pot smeared with lime to a bunch of straw and in the effort to create something frightening, we find the rudimentary examples of masks. Imbedded in the bhakti movement, just as the vaishnavite saint Srimanta Sankardeva uplifted the Assamese people in the cultural realm with the Bhaona, geet, naat and musical instruments, the masks were also given a separate identity and uplifted it to a form of art. The Bhaonas are conceived as a medium of propagation of his religious faith by Sri Sankardeva. In these Bhaonas, masks were born and developed. This art form is still practiced in few sattras which at one time were the torchbearers of cultural renaissance in Assam. At present the Natun Samaguri, Purani Samaguri, Alengi Narasingha and Bihimpur Sattra are primarily involved in mask making.

The masks of Assam have a distinctive style. These masks are prepared out of locally available raw materials including bamboo, cane, potters clay, cow dung, and gauze muslin.

Later, different newer materials are also been used.

Use of open hexagonal pattern as a basketry technique in Assam is very old. The mask makers re-

ferred to this as Lakhimi sutra as the agrarian people of Assam preserve paddy seedlings in similar wicker baskets believed to be the abode of goddess Lakshmi.

Three types of masks are found in the sattras of Majuli- Cho Mukha, Lutukori Mukha and Mukh Mukha. Cho Mukhas are oversized masks covering the whole head up to the waist. The head and the body portions are prepared separately. Both the parts are secured together and the wearer rests the same over his shoulder and plays his part accordingly. From the waist onwards a skirt like garment is fastened so that the feet of the wearer are not visible.

Holes are made at appropriate places to facilitate the wearer to see outside. The popular Cho mukha includes the characters of Ravana, Khumbhakarna, Moidanab, Narakasura, Narasimha and others.

Lutukori Mukha is similar to Cho mukha with few variations. Here the head and the body portions are also prepared separately. Certain portions of the masks like the limbs and head can be moved. Just as Cho mukha, the wearer gets inside these masks and fits the hands of the mask over his own hands and moves accordingly. Unlike Cho mukha, the head portion of these masks are not secured to its other parts but the wearer simply places the head portion

Majuli's land of Mask Makers over his own head. A skirt like garment is fastened from the waist onwards. The popular Cho mukha includes the char-

Ananta kali Naag used during Raasleela.

The main sattras of Majuli involved in mask making are the Natun

The art of making masks (Photo: theurbanote) acters of Putona demoness, Taraka demoness, Shankhasar, Jakhya and others.

Mukh Mukha covers only the face. Masks cover the head while the performer wears colourful costumes during the performance. The popular Mukh mukha includes the characters of Marib, Subahu, Chakrabat and others along with the various zoomorphic characters like Aghasur, Bokasur, Dhenukasur, Bokhsasur,

Samaguri, Purani Samaguri, Narasingha and Bihimpur Sattra.

The art of mask making was prevalent in the Samaguri Sattra since the last three centuries.

Sri Puroshottam Thakur's daughter Keshabpriya's son Chakrapani Deb established this satttra under a Som Tree in the year1663 (1585 Saka).

Since its inception this sattra has been practicing the art of mask making.

If we flip through the

Few Tourist Places to Visit in India in June & July The month of June and July is the time when the season for summer holidays in India reaches its crescendo.

With schools and colleges closing at this time of year, June and July also becomes best time for family holidays in India. Since it is also the peak of summer season in India with monsoon in the offing, there are quite a few places where one could travel to for a fulfilling summer holiday in

station for you to plan your break. But there is more to summer holidays in India than hills.

Read on and find out the best places to visit in June in India to plan a summer holiday of your choice.

Ooty: The Queen of Hills Nestled in the between the Nilgiri Hills, Ooty is a one of the best hill stations in South India to be visited during the month of June.

The picturesque hill station

guesthouses, and resorts available.

Munnar: Spices and Plantations One of the most popular hill stations in South Indian state of Kerala, Munnar is favored honeymoon destination in India. With its scenic locales, vast stretches of emerald tea plantations & forests, pervading calm and fascinating views, Munnar attracts family vacationers and romantic couples alike.

Tree houses are recent eco-friendly initiative to boost tourism in Kerala (Photo: groov) India.

To seek respite from the scorching sun and humidity, hill stations are the most favored tourist places in India to travel in summer. A bulk of the popular hill stations in India are in the North and North Eastern India, but West and South India also have fair share of some equally magnificent hill stations to go for summer vacations in India. Surprisingly even the desert kingdom of Rajasthan has a hill

surrounded by lush countryside, greets you with a pleasant weather and an abundance of places of interests to explore.

Things to do in Ooty visit attractions like Botanical Gardens, Rose Gardens, The Tea Factory, Echo Rock, Doddabetta Peak, Dolphin's Nose, Sims Park, Annamalai Temple, Hidden Valley, Wax Museum, and many more.

Adding the element of comfort and luxury, there are various hotels, inns,

Things to do in Munnar include tea tours, spice tours, nature walks, visit to Tea Museum and hikes along the nearby trails in the Western Ghats. If you are visiting Munnar for your holidays in June, you could include the nearby sights such as Eravikulam National Park, Mattupetty Dam, Attukal Waterfalls and Top Station.

Lakshadweep: The Tropical Paradise Literally meaning 'hundred

pages of history of this sattra, we can find the immense contribution of personalities like Tonkeswar Deb, Jogeswar Deb Goswami towards this art form. In 1902 a branch of this sattra was established around 10 miles north from this main Samaguri sattra and this new sattra

thousand islands', Lakshadweep located 400 kilometers off Indian coast in Arabian Sea, is one of the most off the beaten path destinations in India. There are in fact only 36 islands comprising India's smallest union territory out of which 3 - Agatti, Kadmat and Bangaram Island - are open to foreign tourists. However a permit is required by both Indians and foreigners for visit to Lakshadweep which could are issued from Kochi.

Lakshadweep Islands is one of the best places in India for scuba diving and snorkeling. Various water sport activities are also available at Kadmat, Bangaram and Agatti Island.

The charm of these islands lies in their remoteness from the mainland making them crowd free and less 'touristy'. Then there are turquoise corals, pristine coastline dotted with coconut palms and stretches of beige sand that conjures postcard perfect moments.

Ayurveda in Kerala Kerala is known for so many things and it has also been rated as one of the "top 50 places to visit in the world in a lifetime" by National Geographic Traveller. There are world class beaches including Kovalam which has been rated as one of the top 10 beaches in India and then there is abundant wildlife at Periyar. But what beats them all is the lure of Ayurvedic therapies that draws visitors from around the world to Kerala.

Perhaps the best time to visit Kerala especially if you are looking forward to ayurvedic therapies and spa is upon the arrival of Monsoon. Based on the ancient science of healing and reju-

venation, Ayurveda is practiced at its authentic best at some of the finest Ayurveda resorts in India.

The reason why we recommend July as the best time to visit Kerala is that arrival of monsoon makes Kerala a relatively quieter place. It is the time of healing and rejuvenation as well as honeymoon and romance as the rains lashes "God's own Country" and the palm fringed backwaters, emerald tea plantations and lush paddy field exude an aura of fertility and renewal.

And this is why monsoon happens to be the best time to visit Kerala for Ayurveda and rejuvenation. One of the best ways to experience the July monsoon in Kerala is to take refuge in one of the tree houses. Tree houses are recent eco-friendly initiative to boost tourism in Kerala.

For a combination of tranquility and seclusion with rejuvenating Ayurvedic therapies, we'd recommend Vythiri Resort in Wayanad.

Hovering 30 meters above a rainforest canopy Vythiri is a romantic place where the lazy mornings are spent bird-watching and the rest of the day keep you busy with a lots of adventure activities like hiking with a naturalist and you should have a reason to rejoice as all these things come "on the house".

Don't forget to attend SPLASH, a cultural fest organized by the Wayanad's tourism department, a monsoon carnival in July at Kalpetta. Highlights include local sports like vadamvali (tug-of-war), kabaddi (a team game similar to "tag"), archery, slow cycle races, crab tours, rock climbing, marathons, rafting and mud football.

Courtesy: insightsindia

also practiced mask making since its inception.The erstwhile Satttradhikar, Late Sri Rudrakanta Goswami has been awarded the Artist Pension in 1988 by the Govt. of Assam for his contribution to the art of mask making. Noted art critic, Sri Nilamani Phukan also acknowledged the contribution of this artist in his article published in Prantik (Vol 2: 19 Issue). Later, the sons of Late Rudrakanta GoswamiLate

Dharmakanta Goswami, Hemchandra Goswami and Krishna Goswami carried on his legacy and strived hard to preserve and promote the art of mask making and other forms of Vaishnavite art and culture.

At present, Sri Hemchandra Goswami has established Sukumar Kala Pith- a mask making training institute in 1980 at Samaguri sattra, Majuli and has been training promising artinclined persons. This institute works not only towards the promotion of this art form but at the same time it also strives to take up mask making as a means of attaining economic independence amongst the younger generation. At present Raas is celebrated in around 55 places in Majuli with pomp and gaiety and during this time we see masks being extensively used. In that case we can consider Majuli to have the potential of being a centre for establishing a mask industry. At present, the widespread promotion of sculptural art form taking the support of mask making is also another encouraging mutual step in the economic realm. The gateway of Naamghar, schools and colleges; sculptures of Gajendra, Peacock, Naamsinha and others are made with iron rod and cement using the vaishnavite artistic canon and skill is noteworthy.

Apart from these bamboo gateways are prepared during different festivals in Majuli as well as in

different parts of Assam.

On one hand, we come across beautiful sculptures with different bhavas while on the other hand the economic viability of this art form is evident.

The present Sattradhikar of Natun Samaguri sattra, Sri Koshakanta Deb Goswami and his sons- Pradeep and Dhiren Goswami are actively engaged in mask making. It is a pride for Majuli that the masks of this Sattradhikar have reached as far as Indonesia. Along with this sattra, the Purana (Old) Samaguri sattra and Bihimpur sattra is also actively involved in mask making. According to the requirement of Bhaona and Raas, various new masks are prepared which is quite encouraging. The work of the artist of Bihimpur sattra is noteworthy.

Alengi Narasimha sattra of upper Majuli is also engaged in mask making.

The erstwhile Sattradhikar Late Lilakanta Mahanta and Priyakanta Mahanta's masks were of superb quality. Their legacy is preserved at present by Lalit Mahanta and Golap Mahanta. A bhaona with masks prepared by these two artists were staged in Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra in January, 2006. These masks were appreciated by the audience and it is a pride for Majuli that a Cho mukha of Ravana made by this duo is preserved in the museum of Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra Courtesy: nezine

The place where Malgudi Days happened: Agumbe Often called the Cherrapunji of South India, Agumbe is known for its scenic beauty and biodiversity. Nestled on a plateau on top of Someshwara Ghat, it is 380 km from Bangalore.

Situated in Shimoga district of Karnataka, Agumbe gets its sobriquet because it receives 7,640 mm of mean annual rainfall, the second highest annual rainfall in India.

Agumbe is surrounded by rich biodiversity and the hill station borders one of the last surviving lowland rain forests. Since Agumbe is home to several rare species of medicinal plants like Garcinia, Myristica, Listsaea, Diospyrous, Hoiligarna, Eugenia and Ficus among others, it is also called 'Hasiru Honnu' which means 'green is gold'. The whole area and the reserve forests around Kundapur, Shankar anarayana, Hosanagara, Sringeri and Thirthahalli are collectively referred to as the Agumbe Rainforest Complex and form one of the largest contiguous forest stretches left in India.

During rains, Agumbe and the surrounding region come alive with several waterfalls; Kunchikal Falls, Barkana Falls, Onake Abbi Falls and Jogigundi Falls are some of the popular ones.

Most tourists visit Agumbe to trek through its forests or to visit the waterfalls. Trekking to

the Kudlu Theertha Falls or Nishani Gudda offers a once in a lifetime experience. (But also beware of the leeches that infest the forests.) The high points of the treks are the visual treats that Agumbe offers. Sunset Point, a gallery erected to view the sunset, offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and

is based at Agumbe. It is also equipped with India's first automatic weather station. The station exclusively monitors changes in rain forests. Agumbe is also called King Cobra capital because of the high number of snakes of the species being found here. Interestingly, despite the high density of

The Cherrapunji of South India (Photo: wikimedia)

even the Arabian Sea on a clear day. Remnants of temples dating back to the Hoysala Empire are also worth a visit.

Agumbe served as the setting for India's most popular fictional town, Malgudi in the TV series Malgudi Days (that itself was based on the eponymous book by R K Narayan). Doddamane or the Big House, which Swamy lives in, is over 100 years old and still stands proud here.

India's sole permanent rainforest research station

King Cobras in the region, incidents of snakehuman conflict are rare.

The Agumbe Rainforest Research Station has pioneered the world's first radio-telemetry project on the King Cobra. Insights gained from the ecological study are being put into practice into King Cobra management.

The best time to visit the place is during monsoon, when the hill station is full of sparkling streams and several waterfalls.

Courtesy: outlo oktraveller

cmyk

cmyk

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, JUNE 17

PAGE 12

Determined Amir not scared of facing backlash from England spectators ANI Karachi, June 16 : Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir, who is set to make his Test return after completing a fiveyear ban for spot-fixing last year, has insisted that he was not afraid of facing a potential backlash from English spectators when his side will tour England later this summer.

Amir, along with former skipper Salman Butt and Mohammad Asif, were found guilty of various offences of corrupt

behaviour relating to the Lord's Test between England and Pakistan in August 2010 by the independent Anti-Corruption Tribunal in February 2011.

Last week, the 24-year-old pacer was granted visa by the UK authorities to travel with the 17-member squad for the forthcoming series.

Amir now faces the mental challenge of bowling in the same country and at the same venue where he committed the crime.

Earlier this year, Amir was taunted by the New

Billy Bowden relegated to Kiwis' national umpiring panel ANI Wellington, June 16 : Umpire Billy Bowden has been axed from New Zealand Cricket's international panel after standing in 84 Tests, 200 one-day internationals and 24 T20s.

Bowden, Derek Walker and Phil Jone have all been relegated to the NZC's national panel while Shaun Haig and Chris Brown have been promoted to the international panel, which will also feature Wayne Knights.

With the latest ruling, Bowden can now only be able to officiate in domestic games and women's

internationals.

The 53-year-old, who made his international debut in an ODI in 1995, made his most recent appearance during the Chappell-Hadlee Series in Wellington in February.

Bowden, who is known for his eccentric signals, was also one of the most recognizable figures on the ICC's elite panel before being axed in 2013, ESPNcricinfo reported.

He was recalled in the elite panel in 2014 following the retirement of of his countryman Tony Hill, but was once again debarred from the panel last year.

Dharamsala to host BCCI's first ever annual conclave from June 21 ANI Mumbai, June.16 : The Board of Control for Cricket in India is hosting its first ever annual conclave at HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala from June 21 to 24.

The four-day conclave will include a series of workshops and meetings. The conclave will start with a workshop for media managers of all state cricket associations, which includes a session on digital media.

It will be followed by a conference of coaches and captains, IPL Governing Council, Junior Committee and Affiliation Committee meeting.

The conclave will focus on steps to strengthen one of the biggest domestic cricket season of the world and ways to take IPL, the fast-

est growing league in the world, to new heights.

Members will also deliberate on how to make the BCCI more transparent and efficient.

BCCI President Anurag Thakur said: "This is the first time BCCI is hosting a four-day long conclave that aims at getting all stakeholders at one place and align everyone's thoughts for improvement of the sport."

Honorary Secretary of the BCCI, Ajay Shirke said: "Timing of this Conclave couldn't have been better.

We are about to step into one of the most exciting cricket season and this is a perfect opportunity to bring everyone under one roof and discuss ideas and how to implement them."

Basketball Court Inaugurated in Golaghat Ranji Trophy Match Will Be Held in Golaghat ET Correspondent Golaghat , June 16: Good news for the sports lovers of Golaghat as a news modern Basket ball court was opened in the town yesterday . The new basket ball court at the Golaghat Stadium premises was inaugurated by the Deputy Director of Sports and Youth Affairs of Government of Assam Jatin Borchetia. The basket ball court was made under the infrastructure development scheme of Golaghat District Sports

Association . In the inaugural ceremony the newly elected Secretary of Assam Cricket Association Pradip Borgohain, Deputy Secretary Parikshit Dutta and Assistant Secretary Sanjiv Handique were felicitated .

The newly elected Secretary of ACA announced to held a Ranji Trophy Cricket Match in Golaghat very soon as the Golaghat Stadium has the required infrastructure to organise such level of event .

ing of his teammates and his country's cricket board,the Express Tribune reported.

Mohammad Amir Zealand stadium announcer with a sound of a cash register during their limited-overs series.

The former spot-fixer said that he was ready for the upcoming challenge, adding that he had the back-

Amir further stressed that his focus would be to deliver his absolute best against England.

He also stated that he had been doing his job with commitment since his return to the international cricket and vowed to continue to do the same.

Pakistan will tour England for a four-match Test series and a five-match ODI series, starting from July 14 at the Lord's.

Murray's coach Lendl keen to ruin Djokovic's dominance ANI London, June 16 : After rejoining forces with British tennis maestro Andy Murray, coach Ivan Lendl has admitted that their target is to ruin top-ranked Novak Djokovic's bid to become the greatest player of all times.

Earlier this week, Murray revealed that he had agreed a deal to resume his relationship with Lendl two years after they parted ways.

The 29-year-old's decision came after losing his third consecutive Grand Slam final to Djokovic at the French Open.

Djokovic has been dominating the sport from last year, having bagged all four Grand Slam title and won a total of 24 matches out of his previous 34 encounters with Murray.

Despite that, Llendl believes that Murray still holds a chance to turn things around

Ivan Lendl for himself this year, the Guardian reports.

The former world number one, however, described Djokovic's achievement as 'phenomenal' and said that he deserved respect for the same.

Murray had enjoyed a golden period under Lendl as he clinched the US Open title and a gold

medal at the Olympics in 2012 before becoming the first British man to win the Wimbledon title after 77 years in 2013.

His decision to split with Lendl originally came because the 56-year-old former number one was unwilling to spend extra time with Murray on the gruelling ATP Tour.

ASEB sails into semifinal Sports Reporter Dibrugarh, June 16: ASEB, Guwahati defeated Tengakhat Anchalik Sonowal Kachari Students’ union Football Club by 2-1 in the last quarterfinal of the 12th C.K.Sarma Day/ Night football tournament organised by Dibrugarh District Sports Association at Chowkidinghee ground on yesterday.

Sonowal in the 4th minute.

Saurav converted a pass from the left flank and scored the goal.

Rahul Das of ASEB equalized the goal in the 10th minute. Rahul received a pass of Akranka Narzary from the right flank and found the back of the net.

At the lemon break the score was 1-1.

Tengakhat opened their tally trough Striker Saurav

In the second half, ASEB players came into full force and started attacking.

Griezmann, Payet's late strikes fire France into Euro 2016 knockouts ANI Johannesburg, June 16 : Antoine Griezmann netted a late goal before Dimitri Payet added second in injury time as hosts France secured their place in the last 16 of the European Championship with a 2-0 win over Albania in their second Group A clash in Marseille on Thursday.

Although France were in possession throughout the match, they still struggled hard to open their account.

After a goalless first half, France finally manage to break the deadlock via striker Griezmann's header in the last minute of the match before Payet struck a stoppage-time curler to hand the hosts with a second consecutive win in the tournament.

France Football team France, who are currently leading the point table, began their quest for a maiden Euro title in 16 years with a battling 2-1 win over Romania, Sport24 reported.

that current under-20s coach Micale will be given the task of guiding a lackluster Brazil team in the forthcoming Rio Olympics.

Tite tion, Sport24 reported.

Although the CBF has not confirmed the appointment, officials have held a meeting with Tite, according to reports.

However, the CBF stated

Corinthians boss Tite replaces Dunga as Brazil's new coach ANI Johannesburg, June 16 : Corinthians manager Adenor Leonardo Bacchi, better known as Tite, has been appointed as the new coach of Brazil after Dunga was sacked following the side's humiliating exit from the Copa America Centenario.

The Brazilian Football Confederation (CBF), however, said that the task of leading the national side in the upcoming Rio Olympics August will fall to current under-20s coach Micale.

Confirming the news, Corinthians president Roberto de Andrade said that Tite no longer works for his side as he accepted the CBF's proposal, Sport24 reported.

The 55-year-old had earlier coached a number of top clubs in Brazil, including Gremio, Atletico Mineiro and Palmeiras, Al Ain and Al Wahda in the United Arab Emirates.

Tite had also led Corinthians to two Brazilian league titles in 2011 and 2015 and to the Copa Sudamericana in 2013.

Tite, who is known for turning things around, led Corinthians to two Brazilian league titles in 2011 and 2015 in addition to guiding them to the Copa Sudamericana in 2013.

Dunga was appointed as Brazil manager after the South American giant suffered a 7-1 loss to Germany in the 2014 World Cup semifinal.

Meanwhile, Albania, who lost their opening game against Switzerland, have to beat Romania in their next match in order to stand any chance of qualifying.

Misbah confident of Pakistan's good show against England

Tite replaces Dunga as Brazil coach post Copa America fiasco ANI Johannesburg, June.16 : Tite has been named as Brazil's new football coach, replacing Dunga who was sacked from the position following the national team's embarrassing exit from the Copa America.

Confirming the news, Corinthians president Roberto de Andrade said that Tite was no longer working with the Brazilian football club, while adding that the 55-yearold had accepted the Brazilian Football Confederation's invita-

Akranka Narzary got a pass of Apuraba Phukan from the right flank and scored the winning goal in the 63rd minute.

Tengakhat players’ have showed great skills in the match but they missed some opportunity where they could score. In the earlier match, Tengakhat Anchalik Sonowal Kachari Students’ union Football Club beat Gorgaon Football Coaching Centre by 4-3 via tiebreaker.

Misbah-ul-Haq ANI Karachi, June 16 : Expressing confidence ahead of his side's upcoming tour to England, Pakistan skipper Misbah-ul-Haq insisted that the current batting line-up is far more experienced than the team that toured the country in 2010.

The 17-member squad named by the new chief

selector Inzamam-ul-Haq comprises only three players from the last English tour in 2010.

The upcoming four-match series will see Misbah don Pakistan's Test cap on the British Isles for the first time.

Downplaying the presence of Pakistan rookies touring the country, Misbah said that his side are in a good

position at the moment, adding that the results would definitely be better, the Dawn reported.

The 42-year-old, however, refused to rule out the threat England pacers would pose to the Pakistan batsman and, therefore, called on his side to remain well-disciplined against them.

The right-hander believes that the series could prove to be historical for both sides, adding that Pakistan would try their best to put up a good show on the tour.

The tour will also see former spot-fixer Mohammad Amir make his Test return at Lord's, where he committed the crime.

Pakistan will tour England for a four-match Test series and a fivematch ODI series, starting from July 14 at the Lord's.

Amla, Tahir dazzle as Proteas hammer Windies in ODI tri-series ANI Basseterre, June 16 : Opener Hashim Amla struck a brilliant century before Imran Tahir bagged a seven-wicket haul as South Africa crushed West Indies by 139 runs in the sixth ODI of the tri-nation series at Warner Park in St. Kitts on Thursday.

Put in to bat first, Amla smashed thirteen boundaries in his 110-run knock and shared a huge opening stand of 182 runs with Quinton de Kock (71) to strengthen their side to a score of 343 runs in their stipulated 50

overs.

Meanwhile, Faf du Plessis (unbeaten at 73) and Chris Morris (40) were other notable figures for South Africa.

In reply, West Indies failed to counter Proteas' bowling attack and were eventually bundled out for 204 in 38 overs.

Johnson Charles was the highest scorer for the hosts with 49 runs.

Besides Tahir, Tabraiz Shamsi scalped two wickets while Wayne Parnell chipped in with a wicket.

Each team will now head into the final leg of the series with two victories

Imran Tahir and two defeats.

South Africa will play their next match against

Australia at Kensington Oval in Barbados on Sunday.

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

Editorial Adviser: Subir Bhaumik Indian batsman Manish Pandey

Editor: Ripunjoy Das

cmyk

cmyk

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