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ASSENG/2015/64205

PAGE 6

Vol. II

Issue V

Dibrugarh, Thursday, June 23, 2016

HURT ANJU BOBBY GEORGE RESIGNS AS KERALA SPORTS COUNCIL PREZ

Price -

5.00

PAGE 6

MEGHALAYA'S SONJA WILDLIFE IS HOME TO RARE INDIAN APE SPECIES Page - 5

ISRO RECORD LAUNCH: PM MODI LAUDS INDIAN SCIENTISTS FOR 'MONUMENTAL ACCOMPLISHMENT'

Page - 6

Page - 11

Pages- 12

Bordumsa police on war footings Security forces in Upper Assam nabbed ULFA (I) militants & 1 to curb the menace of drugs six hard-core GNLA in the last five days SP, Changlang lauds the team’s continuous raids, arrest and seizures of narcotics substance

Setting inspiring examples for rest of the Police stations across the District of Changlang and other neighboring districts which is yet to gourd up their loin to join the crusades against the menace of drugs, team Bordumsa Police has been reported of adopting uncompromising strategy thus driving aggressively in and out to combat the menace of drugs in and around the most infected and drug-abused belt of Bordumsa in Changlang District of Arunachal Pradesh.

Success which is natural to follow after several days of relentless efforts, Bordumsa Police has apprehended, arrested and seized various forms of drugs including Brownsuger and Opium along with the addicts and peddlers from various locations including Madhadevpur Bazar in Tinsukua District of Assam sharing common boundaries with Arunachal Pradesh.

Meanwhile, following the arrest of around 8 persons to this effect within a very brief spell, team Bordumsa Police headed by R Borang the

ET CAPSULES

Yoga Day Golaghat, June 22: ABMMS Golaghat Assam branch organized International Yoga Day for members, kids and guests where about 50 participants took active part. The Yoga session was given by Mr. Anil Khandelwal.

Two of the kids also demonstrated the way to carry school bag so that they don't have pain in their shoulders and back.

ABMMS Golaghat branch searched out 3 poor students and donated books, uniforms and bags which were the basic necessity of those students.

(Correspondent)

COMBATING DRUG MENACES Bordumsa Police headed

by R Borang the Officer Incharge have arrested 8 persons so far Last evening, another opium peddler from Madhadevpur Bazar was caught with possession including 500 grams of opium and measuring during a raid conducted in association with Assam Police Office Incharge, Bordumsa PS, once again proving his rigidity and determination to stand for the cause of the people and place arrested an opium peddler from Madhapur Bazar with possession including 500 grams of opium and measuring devices last evening during a raid conducted in association with Assam Police.

Meanwhile, offering gratefulness to media house for being instrumental, Amit Sharma the Superintendent of Police Changlang expressed satisfaction at the working schemes of Bordumsa Police and told that all cornered support of the society is essential for the operating team to make the

crusades more intensified so that the objective is realized more effectively and swiftly.

Appreciating the role of the media in sensitizing the Police as well as the local people, Sharma was confident that once the people of Bordumsa irrespective of physical demarcation stands beside the Police with determination to uproot the deep seated evil grips of drugs , the mission would be accomplished in no time and Bordumsa would be a safer and better place for all free from the said venoms that has been a potential reasons so far leading to social and household unrest.

It is pertinent to add here that with the support of only

a section of people the police has been doing commendable job to this effect so far, and what would be the outcome in gross once the people at large including all the active associations and organizations and other security agencies and NGOs too lend their hands in the said direction and join the crusades to nip the monster in buds and save the younger generation in particular going waste. The concerned departments including the Police team from Assam must cooperate, co-ordinate and work jointly with its Arunachal counterpart and shape the drive together for effective outcome.

A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, June 22

The security forces have launched a massive manhunt against UlFA (I) in upper Assam and arrested six hard-core militants and one GNLA cadre in the last five days. Last night the security personnel launched an operation and arrested Sagar Gogo alias Feroz Asom (22) from village no 2 Rajgarh under Tengakhat police station while he was going to Namsai District via Tinsukia to reach Arakan Camp in Myanmar. Fourteen 7.62 mm AK 47 rounds, five 9mm rounds, eleven 0.22 mm rounds and two fired cases of 0.22mm were recovered from the militant.

During interrogation he revealed that he infiltrated to India from Dauki village in Meghalaya and was instructed by Commanderin-Chief self-sergeant Major Drishti Rajkhowa to reach Arakan Camp in Myanmar through Arunachal Pradesh.

Sources said that after BJP comes to power the ULFA (I) militants become desperate to launch strike in the Upper Assam and trying everything possible to get success in their mission. This is the fourth major success for the security forces against the rebel outfit in Dibrugarh district in past one week.

Since BJP came to power in Assam, the Govt is taking serious measure to end insurgency problems which reeled the state into

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Fingers were pointed on central governments much hyped NRHM and state governments health system after a 12 year old child of a businessman here in Tinsukia town lost his battle for life at around 11.00 am at a private hospital at Dibrugarh on Wednesday due to encephalitis.

Doctors diagnosed Mulund Birmiwal for acute encephalitis and also doubted that it can be a

June 16: Biplob Asom alias Mamon Gogoi, an Ulfa (I) rebel was apprehended from Khowang with 700 gram of TNT June 18: Three hard-core Ulfa (I) militants and a Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) rebel were apprehended during a joint operation by security forces from Chabua A joint operation was launched by 19 JAT Regiment (Army) andLahoalPolice at around 2000 hours on 21 Jun 2016 at village Rajgarh No 2, near RomaiGhat and apprehended SagarGogoi alias FerozAsom(Age -22years)

backwardness for decades.

Before the state assembly election in Assam the rebel outfits have threatened the saffron party of dire consequences.

Sources revealed that the outfit has become financially weak and running out of manpower so they are desperate to make their presence felt in upper Assam which was once a major area of the rebels from where many youths joined the rebel group. Intelligence sources said that the youths who have joined the rebel groups have lost the trust upon the Ulfa top brass and wanted to return home.

On June 16, Biplob Asom alias Mamon Gogoi, an Ulfa (I)

rebel was apprehended from Khowang with 700 gram of TNT. The police claimed that he was on a mission to carry out two major strikes in Dibrugarh town including the local BJP office on the orders of the Ulfa top leaders.

On June 18, three hardcore Ulfa (I) militants and a Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) rebel were apprehended during a joint operation by security forces from Chabua while on their way to Myanmar from Meghalaya. Three 9 mm pistols, 6 pistol magazines, 40 round live bullets and two BFDX BF 860 Chinese wireless radio sets were recovered.

On June 20, Rahul Hazarika

June 20: Rahul Hazarika alias Laden Asom (24), was arrested from Moran and recovered twelve demand notes signed by Ulfa deputy commander-in-chief Drishti Rajkhowa on the outfit’s letterhead June 21: Sagar Gogo alias Feroz Asom (22) from village no 2 Rajgarh under Tengakhat police station while he was going to Namsai District via Tinsukia to reach Arakan Camp in Myanmar was arrested alias Laden Asom (24), was arrested from Moran and recovered twelve demand notes signed by Ulfa deputy commander-in-chief Drishti Rajkhowa on the outfit’s letterhead. A hand grenade was also recovered from the militant.

Landmark meeting between Will eating beef be allow in Arunachal, questioned APCC to BJP National Secretary Bhutan and India held at Guwahati ET Bureau Itanagar, June 22

Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) questioned BJP national secretary, in charge of North East Ram Madhav and BJP leaders of Arunachal Pradesh whether BJP and RSS will allow to eat beef meat in the state of Arunachal Pradesh? It has also reminded BJP that it’s not possible to make “Ghar Wapsi” in Arunachal Pradesh.

BJP national secretary, in charge of North East Mr. Ram Madhav, as stated in dailies on

22th June 2016 regarding the Congress downfall because of Nehru – Gandhi family is really unfortunate, stated Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee (APCC) in a press release.

It further stated that Mr. Madhav, who was earlier RSS Spokesperson and later elevated in BJP party, should know the national political scenario since Independence of India and it is well known by BJP party that without presence of Nehru – Gandhi family cannot rise including BJP. Today BJP is in this position only because of Nehru – Gandhi family after the

joining of Maneka Gandhi and Verun Gandhi, Wife & son of Lt. Sanjay Gandhi. So, how BJP party can blame Congress is declining because of Sonia Gandhi & Rahul Gandhi or Gandhi family.

BJP is always presenting themselves as a cadre base and non – corruption party. Now, Mr. Madhav should reply that after taken over the charge of BJP National Secretary, i/c North East, why all the corrupted legislators and leaders of Congress of North East region are poaching to join in BJP by suppressing all sincere and

senior BJP cadres’ base leaders.

Is it a principle of Mr. Amit Shah and Mr. Narendra Modi?

How BJP can blame that Congress party is corrupted? All the National Flagship programmes announced by Mr. Modi are replica of UPA Govt.

Schemes. Changing of names of the schemes by the present Central Govt. is nothing but just to befool the people of the nation. Now everybody understood the policies and programmes of BJP party.

Where is your promise to deposit Rs. 15 lakhs in bank account of every Indian citizen?

Where are the black money?

Japanese encephalitis outburst in Tinsukia, claims life of a 12-year old businessman son Rishu Kalantri Tinsukia, June 22

THE ARRESTS SO FAR

What is Japanese Encephalitis?

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a serious mosquito-borne viral infection. It occurs mainly in rural parts of Asia. JE virus spreads through the bite of infected mosquitoes. It cannot spread directly from person to person.

Encephalitis is a disease that results in inflammation of the brain

case of Japanese encephalitis (JE), the same is yet to be confirmed by the officials of the health department.

However, in past one month, 5 cases of Japanese encephalitis has been detected in Tinsukia district out of which 2 youths below 15 - years died, out of which one Priya Orang was vaccinated with JE immunization. Hence, the probability of JE breakthrough cannot be ruled out.

The death of Mulund in his childhood has come as a major setback for all back here in

Tinsukia. The allegations that the boy was vaccinated with JE immunization has exposed the government medicine and immunization drives along with health facility in the state, particularly, Tinsukia.

The pain for Birmiwal family did not stop here as despite paying 7 lakh 50 thousand upfront for air ambulance on Tuesday, the air ambulance landed hours after the scheduled time, by then Mulund was declared dead.

Contd. on Page 4

A Staff Reporter Guwahati, June 22

For the 10th time since 2008, important delegates representing the Governments of Bhutan and India along with conservation NGOs of the region met in Guwahati, Assam.

The landmark meeting was held on 21st-22nd June 2016 to discuss Conservation of

Biodiversity issues and opportunities in the large Transboundary landscape between India and Bhutan across the International boundary from the river Sankosh in the west to the River Dhansiri in the east, referred to as the Transboundary Manas Conservation Area (TraMCA).

In India, it includes the

Manas Tiger Reserveand, in Bhutan, the forested areas of south covering the Royal Manas National Park, Phipsoo Wildlife Sanctuary and Jomotshangkha Wildlife Sanctuary. The Ecosystem Services provided by TraMCA supports a total human population of over 10 million over India and Bhutan.

Contd. on Page 4

CM Sonowal directs DCs and SPs to take all possible measures to protect the Rhinos A Staff Reporter Guwahati, June 22

Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal today directed the DCs and SPs to take all possible measures to protect the rhinos at a high level meeting with DCs and SPs of

Jorhat, Golaghat and Nagaon districts and senior forest officials in Kaziranga late evening yesterday, Chief Minister Sonowal asked them to leave no stone unturned to protect the rhinos from falling prey in the hands of poachers.

"To save rhinos from

extinction you have to take it up as a mission to protect them from poachers. To save the pride of Assam we will extend all possible support to you to stop it from extinction," Sonowal said.

Contd. on Page 4

Mahat Chandra Talukdar manages to kill 184 rhinos at KNP during his tenure Bijoy Handique Jorhat, June 22

1989 to 1993, informed KNP senior official here today.

Arrested Divisional Forest Officer of Dhemaji, Mahat Chandra Talukdar managed to killed 184 rhinos in Kaziranga National Park (KNP) while he was in charge of two important range offices under Kaziranga National Park (KNP) between

The figure came to light when a three member high level team from the department of anti-corruption, Government of Assam visited Kaziranga’s two range offices today, i.e. Agoratoli Range Office at Agoratoli, Bagori Range office at Bagori and also

took stock off his performances as RO in two ranges at the Kaziranga DFO office at Bokakhat.

Mahat Talukdar who had served as RO of Agoratoli Range from 1989 to 1991, then from 1991 to 1993 as range officer in Bagori, Contd. on Page 4

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Laxman Sharma Bordumsa, June 22

Last night, another militant Sagar Gogoi alias Feroz Asom was apprehended while going to Arakan Camp in Myanmar through Namsai district of Arunachal Pradesh

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, JUNE 23

PAGE 2 ASTRO FOR YOU Aries Life sometimes smiles down upon you, and today seems to be such a day. Though you will remain occupied with your work, there will be no pressure. Same is the case with your personal life. What more does one need? It is probably trying to teach you to be content.

Taurus In all probability, you will come across as extremely prudent today. Your common sense will prevail over your intellect this afternoon. Things will probably change for the better during the course of the day. Loved ones will shower you with care and concern in the evening.

Gemini There are chances that your love life will go through some ups and downs today. Care and concern must be the watchwords in the afternoon. You will probably take chances in money matters. Don't lose your head, keep the faith and get back to your charming self.

Cancer Your actions will be dominated by your impulsive trait. Later in the day, close your eyes to the negative aspects and focus only on the positives. Your action rather than thinking will yield better results. Immerse your heart and mind in light music.

Leo You will have to fulfill all your responsibilities carefully, and will be duly rewarded for your troubles. Begin all auspicious work and new projects in the afternoon. Your generosity and capability will keep you at peace today.

Virgo You are most likely to wield the baton if a question on your authority is raised. Also on the cards is a possibly risky venture with finances. An unexpected and not-so-nice event in the evening will add certain lines of worry to your face. But don't worry because where there is life, there is hope.

Libra There may be issues with your competitors playing around with your emotions and questioning your competency today, but you will be able to defeat them. In your professional field, you may have to face difficult times; these people will come forth to help you. You have to be careful today as it is a decisive day filled with stress and tensions.

Scorpio Passionate love affairs will be even more intense and seductive than before. Evening may see a new romantic aura around you. Professionally, you shall answer all the riddles that have left you in a lurch till now.

Sagittarius You may be surprised at the state of your support and subsidy. Economics will worry you today. Your generally upbeat mood will be marred by small, insignificant problems at work. Hedge your bets carefully in matters of money. But keep those spirits high and meet all such matters head-on.

Capricorn If you had scheduled the launch of a new product today, you should tarry a while. It will be in your benefit to delay the launch till late in the day. But if you are headstrong on following the plan, be prepared to face disappointments because the response may not be as satisfying as you may have envisaged. While in the fray, you will be successful in countering the threats posed by your opponents, and will bag the appreciation of your supporters.

Aquarius Your ambition makes you overbearing, and foot-in-mouth will be a common phenomenon today. If you're too forceful or insistent, you may be tormented by regret tomorrow. Avoid being coerced into taking drastic decisions.

CM Sonowal appreciates sentiment Nazira administration to of young student of Guwahati create What’s App group A Staff Reporter Guwahati, June 22: Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal appreciated the sentiments of young Yashvi Khemani, a Class V student of Holy Child School, Guwahati.

Yashvi in her letter expressed her feelings as to how she felt when Sarbananda Sonowal became the Chief Minister. “I greet you heartily with congratulations and best wishes for occupying the highest position as our Chief Minister. Sir, we were so happy

when the results were declared that we started dancing with joy on your great success,” she said.

She exuded optimism that under the leadership of Sonowal ‘Assam will be a most healthy and prosperous State in the coming years’.

Expressing his profound thanks ‘for your kind sentiments and good wishes expressed on my assumption of office’, Sonowal to her query whether he can ‘spare some time for me and send your autograph and photograph

ET Correspondent Jorhat, June 22: With a view to bring more efficiency, the recruitment of all ranks into the Indian Army has been automated by the Recruiting Directorate on their website www.indianarmy.nic.in, informed Dijendra Gogoi the District Information & Publicity Officer, Jorhat here today.

The DIPRO said that as per army statement received, a revised online procedure is being implemented from July 1st onwards. Therefore, all candidates desirous

of enrolment in the Indian Army are required to register their candidature on the website by entering their personal data, e-mil ID and mobile number.

“Subsequently, as and when the recruitment rallies are announced on the same website, the registered candidates are required to file their applications online.

On successfully filing of application, the candidate will receive an auto generated unique Roll Number, which will be used to identify the candidate in following stages of recruitment.

5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti (Devotional Songs) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-15 A.M-Classical Music 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali (Assamese Modern Song) 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi 9-05 A.M-Antara 12-30 P.M-Gharjeuti 2-30 P.M-Dopahar Samachar 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishmi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 6-15 P.M-Ganya Raijor Anushthan 7-15 P.M-Yuvavani 8-00 P.M-Gyanmalini (Sponsored Programme of D.D.E.,Dibrugarh University) 8-30 P.M-Jnan Bijnan 9-16 P.M-Barerahaniya 9-30 P.M- National Programme of Play (Regional Version) Sd-/H.O.P

CEM distributes portfolios to Ems of NCHAC ET Correspondent Haflong June 22 : In exercise the of power conferred under Rules 31 (1) of the Assam Autonomous District ( Constitution of District councils)Rules 1951, the Chief Executive Member distributed the subjects to the Members of the Executive Committee as follows on Wednesday.

Sri Niranjan Hojai, EM PWD R&B, Land Revenue & LR taxes, Sri Subrata Thaosen EM, Agriculture, Council

PWD, Sri Prakanta Warisa, EM Education primary, elementary and higher , Sri flaming Rupsi Syla, Em DRDA, CD & Panchayat, Sports & Youth Welfare, Sri Samuel Changsan, EM, Medical NRHM, Sri S T Jem Hrangkhol EM, Handloom & Textile Industry, Fisheries, Sri Biswajit Daolagupu, EM, Irrigation, Sri laltlansang Hmar, EM, Sericulture, Town& Country planning and Co-operation, Sri Ihuing Pame, EM, Soil Conservation, Excise, Sri

Amendu Hojai, EM, AH vety, Dairy Development, Sri Debojit Bathari, EM, Social Welfare, ICDS, Sri Hailamkambe Kuame, EM, Water Resources, council transport, ILDP,Sri Denis Teron, EM Cultural Affairs, food & civil supply, market and legal Metrology.

And CEM, Debolal Gorlosa, kept Finance, personnel & appointments, GAD, PHE, state forest & forest (normal) tourism, culture (normal) DIPRO, other subjects not being allotted.

Besides, the candidates who have successfully filed application will be intimated on their registered e-mail or mobile number, the venue and date of conduct of their Physical Fitness Test and further process of recruitment” he added.

Moreover, for all future recruitment rallies, educational qualification has been fixed as 10th pass with minimum 33% marks in each subject and with overall aggregate of 45% for Soldier (General Duty) and only 10th simple pass for Soldier (Tradesman), the army statement added.

with media person

ET Correspondent Nazira, June 22: For the greater interest of the society, the Police administration of Nazira conducted a meeting at Nazira police station on last 20th June. In the meeting it was decided to open a What's App group with Sivasagar police administration and media persons of Nazira.

It is a good effort and positive gesture aiming to serve the society in a constructive way. It will also bring proper Co-operation to work together for the larger interest of the society.

SDPO of Nazira Rajendra Oja, DSP Jayanta Sarothi Borah and a few media persons of Nazira were present in the meeting.

Principal of Morigaon Girls Higher Secondary School gets compulsory retirement notice ET Correspondent Morigaon, June 22: Lipika Boruah, Principal of Morigaon Girls Higher Secondary School was given the compulsory retirement notice yesterday (June 21) by the Inspector of Schools, Morigaon.

Tarun Chandra Bora, Inspector of School, Morigaon told this correspondent that he paid a sudden visit at Morigaon Girls H.S. School yesterday and detected a forgery case in the Service Book of the Principal of the School.

The IS, Morigaon further said that the Age Certificate of Lipika Boruah showed the date of birth as 01-011956. But in her Service

Book, the date of birth was doctored as 01-01-1957.

This was done by former IS, Morigaon, Anisur Rahman Choudhury way back in 2003. “As such, Lipika Boruah is continuing her service upto June 21 in an illegal way”, the IS, Morigaon said.

Lipika Boruah, sister-inlaw of former MLA, Morigaon Jon Jonali Boruah was holding the charge of Principal of Morigaon Girls HS School even after her superannuation causing concern among the local people.

Conscious citizens have demanded an enquiry over the matter as how a service book of a principal was doctored in IS office, Morigaon.

Flag of govt of the people's Orientation programme on Mathematics Republic of Nagaland/ and Science for teachers held at Kokrajhar NSCN at Maibang ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, June 22: Over 150 teachers from different schools of Kokrajhar and Chirang district participated in the orientation programme for Mathematics and Science graduate teachers held at Kokrajhar Govt College.

PRASAR BHARATI (India's Public Service Broadcaster) ALL INDIA RADIO : DIBRUGARH (M.W.529.1m/KHz567 F.M. 101.30 MHz)

23-6-16 (THURSDAY)

The Chief Minister while wishing Yashvi the very best in all her future endeavours obliged to the little girl’s plea by giving an autograph on his coloured photograph for ‘her sweet memories’.

Indian Army to introduce online system for recruitment from July 1st

Pisces You are likely to reveal your innermost feelings and the true nature of your thoughts today.

Feel free to be optimistic about your chances of success if you are thinking of proposing to someone special in the evening. More pleasure, less pain. Now, who wouldn't want that?

Phone No.-03732325456 E-mail -dibrugarh@air.org.in Facebook Page-All India Radio Dibrugarh Programme Highlights

for my sweet memories despite increased responsibilities,’ replied, “I know my responsibilities have increased manifold but still I have enough time for youngsters like you on whom I have great hopes and expectations, as it on your shoulders the future of our State hinges.”

ET Correspondent Haflong June 22 : At a time when the GOI reportedly approving sperate flag for Nagaland, the appearance of Flag of govt of the people's Republic of Nagaland/NSCN and banner on a cardboard written as Greater Nagaland area near Meghnarayan bridge at Maibang on Wednesday raised several questions in the mind of the people of Dima Hasao in general.

The

local

people

of

Maibang are of the opinion that they were living in peace, harmony and brotherhood with the Zeliang Naga tribe time immemorial, so it could be a handiwork of non peace loving outsiders to disturb the peace exist in the region.

Later at around 10:30 am Officer-in-Charge of Maibang Police Station, Sankar Das rushed to the spot to take the stock of the situation and removed the flag and placard immediately.

BTC executive member Doneswar Goyary inaugurated the programme on Wednesday, which was organised by Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC), Kokrajhar Govt. College in collaboration with BTC education department.

A five day orientation workshop which has been kicked off from Wednesday, organised to impart training on Mathematics and Science among teachers to bring quality education and gaining of pass percentage in HSLC and HS final examination in the region.

Resource persons from the concern departments have been given training, high-

lighting educational value among society in the region.

Goyary, in his speech urged the teachers’ community to become dedicated to create quality education and best results in the area through which society could see healthy growth.

Rabisangkhar Borgoyary, BTC education director, Jagadish Prasad Brahma, Inspector of Schools, Kokrajhar graced as guests on the workshop with Dr Binay Kumar Brahma, Principal of Kokrajhar Govt College in the chair.

Borgoyary said that the workshop has been aimed to create training for Mathematics and Science teachers in the region so that teachers could teach students in healthy and well manner in schools.

“Over 150 teachers from different schools of Kokrajhar and Chirang districts have participated in the orientation programme

held at Kokrajhar Govt.

College. It has been aimed specially on Mathematics and Science because students are facing hardships on these particular subjects in the final”, said Rabisangkhar Borgoyary, BTC education director.

Dr Ambeswar Phukon, organiser told that the workshop will be imparting training teachers on Mathematics and Science to bringing better results in HSLC and HS final examinations. The training would be extending support while creating quality education among students in the region.

“We are organising the programme to imparting training on Mathematics and Science among teachers, who are teaching in schools in the districts. We have been trying to gain teaching quality through this programme and hope that this will facilitate more teaching services in the region”, Dr Phukon said.

Five FIITJEE students from Northeast shines in JEE A Staff Reporter Guwahati, June 21: With a mission ‘to reach the unreached’ and to provide an ideal platform to students from the rural areas, FIITJEE – a pioneer in the field of training aspirants for IIT-JEE and various other competitive examinations – has opened registrations for its distance learning programmes. Announcing this, FIITJEE also mentioned that five of its students from the Northeast qualified the JEE this year.

FIITJEE also added that the distance learning programmes include best quality, self-sufficient and easy to understand study materials and practice assignments. Head of Non Classroom Programs at FIITJEE, Amit Bansal, said that the national toppers Aman Bansal (AIR 1), KunalGoyal (AIR 3) as well

as Girl Topper Ria Singh have all taken the FIITJEE distance learning programme, irrespective of the fact that they were studying in different institutes.

“Aspirants, belonging to the cross-section of the society, who wish to make it to the IITs, require rigorous training and guidance to crack JEE. Through our distance learning series, we aim to cater to the needs of the aspirantswho aren’t able to join the classroom series.

We reach them and help them realise their true potential and capability to achieve their desired goals,” said Amit Bansal, Head of Non Classroom Programs at FIITJEE. Bansal further emphasized that even if a student is enrolled in any institute, their studies are not complete

without FIITJEE distance learning programme.

Bansal gave example of the national toppers who, in spite of joining regular courses, opted for FIITJEE’s distance learning programme to boost their preparations.

The five students from the Northeast who have qualified in JEE this year are KaustavKashyap Das (AIR 2281), Sheikh Md. Shakeel Hassan (AIR 6943), SwapnilBhowmik (AIR 11730), Atibhi Agrawal (AIR 16789) and Mayank Singh Kushwaha (AIR 25814). They all undertook the FIITJEE’s distance learning programme.

When asked about the performance of FIITJEE in JEE-2016, Bansal mentioned that more than 55% of FIITJEE Distance Learning students have qualified

JEE Advanced 2016.

“The tally of performers of FIITJEE Distance Learning Programme includes 15 students in top 100, 66 in top 500 and over 110 among top 1000 in the Common Merit List (General Category) of JEE- Advanced 2016, which is the highest performance count among Distance Learning Programmes run by any institute in India. This figure will become high if we add the results of SC/ST/OBC and other reserved categories”, Bansal added.

FIITJEE all India test series provides students an opportunity of taking IIT-JEE several times before appearing for the real test.The test analysis portal and Android application helps students understand their shortcomings and work upon them accordingly.“It definitely helps students adopt the

right approach and proper examination temperament.

In fact, our expert faculty keeps redesigning and improving the test series to give FIITJEE students an edge over others. In Fact, most of the toppers and rank holders from almost all the institutes of India have taken FIITJEE All India test Series,” Bansal said.

FIITJEE’s Distance Learning Programs are scientifically designed for a concept based study and JEE pattern practice problems. Through these programs, FIITJEE offers a complete and comprehensive solution in terms of pattern proof study material, phase tests, problem solving, Online concept strengthening series, All India test Series, periodic one to one doubt removal and analysis sessions at its study centres.

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, JUNE 23

PAGE 3

The first ever social river Boys and Girls Hostel of Govt.

H.S.S, Aalo gets Big ranching in Tirap District Face lifts for Accommodation

A Staff Reporter Khonsa, 22 June: The Nocte Apex Body (NAB) embarks on the first of its kind Social River ranching Program in Tirap District for which a meeting was convened in the Circuit House, Khonsa on 21st June’2016 to chalk out the modalities of the project.

proposed as a 1st phase with a special mention of shri Pradhan, former DFDO and present DFDO Rahman sahib for their benevolence provision of 10,000 fingerlings for the project and the other major rivers of the district shall be taken up on phase wise manner in later stage.

While welcoming the Chiefs, GBs, ASMs, GPCs and the prominent public leaders of the villages along the Tiratjo river, Shri T. Aran, Chairman, NAB highlighted the dwindling flora and fauna scenario in the district and call it a right time to take up the project.

He also informed the house, that the project is a brainchild of Shri Ngasah Tangjang and appreciated his initiative. Shri N. Tangjang, Convener, NAB threw lights on the project initiative, objectives and placed before the house the modalities structure for discussion and adoption. He informed that Tiratjo was

The DFDO Khonsa, Wangren Lowang, ASM Borduria, Hangliam Sumnyan, Manne H Lowang, Lonhang Wangha(all public leaders), Chiefs, GBs, ASMs and GPCs spoke in the meeting.

The house resolved and fixed that – 1) Date of program is fixed on 29th June’2016. 2) Venues are at five points- Bogapani Hanging Bridge point, Tirat Tessa chi, Chithamlo, Sihthong, Chenkho and Tirat Hydel point. 3) Villages to be covered are Borduria, Pullung, Lindongthong, New and Old Paniduria, Noksa, Tupi, Lothong and Lapnan. 4) A

total of 30,000 fingerlings will be let out in the project on contribution basis viz 10,000 by DFDO, 10,000

by NAB, 3000 by Borduria Village and the rest seven villages will contribute 1000 each. 5) Fishing in any form except traditional longtakphey from Tiratjoh Hydel point to Tinkam sih will be banned for one year.

6) Use of gelatin, poisoning, netting and electrocution in the project area will be banned permanently for which the respective villages will mane and monitor their Sl No. 01.

Points

respective stretches of the project river. 7) A fine amount of Rs 30,000 is fixed by the representative of the Borduria, Pullong, Lindongthong, Paniduria, Noksa and Luthong villages and will be imposed by the concerned villages on anybody who contravenes these decisions. 8) For serial No. 5, 6 and 7 the NAB will approach the District Administration for promulgation of an Executive order banning fishing and hunting in the project area. 9) DFDO, Khonsa will bring up signboards in the

Participating Villages

Bogapani

Lindongthong

Fingerlings to be received at Lindongthong at Bogapani

02.

Tirat Tessa chi

Borduria

03.

Chithamlo

Pullong and Paniduria

04.

Sihthong

Borduria

05.

Chenkho

Noksa and Luthong

06.

Tirat Hydel

Tupi and Lapnan

focal points along the NH 315A and Trans Arunachal Highway for making awareness of the public. 10) The respective villages will conduct council meeting in their villages for making the citizens aware about the project.

11) All the Chiefs, GBs, ASMs and GPCs of the aforementioned villages with the NAB and DFDO shall be a member of the Project Coordination Committee for successful project implementation. 12) Social River Ranching Points on 29th June’2016 are as under:-

Borduria at Phamthong point Pullong at Pullong point Borduria at Turulamchi Luthong at Luthong point

DFDO will take the fingerlings along.

Pasighat deserves Revoke expulsion order of Kaling Doruk: BJP advisory board to be a Smart City: MLA Moyong Pasighat, June 22: Pasighat has huge potentials to get a place in second phase top 27 cities, stated Pasighat MLA Kaling Moyong today while chairing a consultative meeting on Smart City Project in Delhi.

The meeting was attended by MEO Rahul Singh, Director of MSN Infra Sudhir Malik, Director of PWC N. Murthy and Senior Architect of DDF Punit Bhardwaj.

The newly framed area based development and PAN City project report includes City profile, visions and goal and prioritization of tourism for

economic development would be submitted to the union Urban Development ministry at the end of June, informed Moyong in an official statement today. While claiming that Pasighat deserves Smart City, the MLA stated that the centurion city has surplus lands and vast scope for extension of human habitation, modern and sustainable employment and revenue generations and promotion of tourism industry.

Rail, air and waterways added more hopes and can fulfill the criteria framed by the union ministry, asserted Moyong.

(DIPRO)

Spl Correspondent Pasighat, June 22: While terming the expulsion order of new Chief Councilor Kaling Doruk and his proposer Maklek Yomso from Bharatiya Janata Party on the ground of not supporting the official candidate in the just concluded Chief Councilor election in PMC, the BJP’s 38th Pasighat advisory board members in a joint letter to state President has appealed for immediate revoking of the order.

The advisory board mem-

bers in their letter said that, the expulsion of Doruk and Yomso was done on complaint made by Mandal President, Obit Tamuk who didn’t made any consultation with mandal committee or executive members.

Hence, the complaint made

by Tamuk was done at his personal capacity which doesn’t carry the voice of the 38th Pasighat East A/C, added the advisory committee. In fact, Kaling Doruk was the official candidate of BJP as recommended by the Mandal Committee and District Committee has

grossly neglected the voice of 38th Pasighat East A/C by giving party ticket to Kangge Moyong, said the advisory committee. The advisory committee also questions, as to how a district office bearer (President) can expel the elected councilors from party without giving any opportunity to hear from their side.

The advisory committee while showing their unity over the issue, termed the act of expulsion as unjustified and condemned the action which was taken on personal whims.

Illegal IMFL seized in joint operation of WASE, Admin & Police Spl Correspondent Pasighat, June 22: As a part of their routine activities to check social evils for better and lively society, the Women Against Social Evils activists in coordination with district administration and police seized more than 100 bottles of IMFL from a grocery cum fair price shop at Banskata today, being managed by one Disembor Puri, informed WASE in an statement.

The members of WASE along with town magistrate Philip Tayeng, Superintendant Tax & Excise, Kingman Komut and Sub Inspector, Apang made the surprise checking on receipt of information that

the said shop (Tamuk Fair Priced Shop) is illegally selling IMFL and subsequently seized more than

100 bottles varying various brands like Officer’s Choice, Royal Stag, Mac Dwell, Blender Spirite, Im-

perial Blue etc. According to the shopkeeper, the IMFLs were purchased from Kalen Wine Shop and

WASE appeals district administration to take strict action against the grocery shop cum Tamuk Fair Price Shop by cancelling the trading licenses which bears the number T/L no.Q 6209/95-96/99 dated 21/06-96. While questioning how such gross illegalities exist, Joya Tasung Moyong, General Secretary, WASE expressed their thankfulness for quick action of administration and police. She also said that, due to formation of a committee with the initiation of Dy. Commissioner, Isha Khola madam our work has became easier. The committee comprises of EAC, CO, TPT, Tax & Excise and WASE activists.

A Staff Reporter Aalo June 22: The students of Govt. H.S.S. Aalo who have been deprived of hostel accommodations for last many years due to dilapidated hostel conditions are sighing relief this time as Sipu, Siyom and Girl’s hostel are being fully renovated from the fund allocated by the State Chief Minister Kalikho Pul to the tune of Rs. 2 crores after his visit to the school on the eve of Mopin festival.

The renovation of Sipu hostel is completed, Girl’s hos-

tel and Siyom hostel too are nearing completion and cemented desks and benches are being constructed in all dining halls. The West Siang Deputy Commissioner Pige Ligu accompanied by Town Magistrate, EE PWD, Dy. Director UD& Housing, DLR&SO, DDMO, UPO, representative of TK Engineering and others visited the school and stressed on all strict disciplinary norms like undertakings, caution money, clearance certificate for getting the hostel accommodation.

The team of officers also visited ALG Aalo to look into the drainage system, inspected the newly constructed office building of Urban Development & Housing at Pakam, Indoor Stadium and Sports Complex at Darka where the staffs of T.K. Engineering are accommodated temporarily and inspected the ongoing Trans Arunachal Highway is going on. The DC has asked all line departments to send need based proposals to expedite works where ever needed.

Association pleas for rescue team A Staff Reporter Dollungmukh, 22 Jun : The Dollungmukh Youth Association has urged the state government to immediately send NDRF and para military force to assist in the search operation of two people, who are reportedly feared to have drowned in Subansiri River on June 18.

On the continue searching of two persons feared drowned in river subansiri at Dollungmukh on 18th June 2016 on Saturday by a local youth of Dollungmukh is still not traceable due to heavy rain.

The association claimed that even after four days of the incident at NHPC’s construction tunnel over Subansiri River, the NHPC authority has not taken any initiative.

It held the NHPC responsible for the incident as there was no caution, alert or danger symbol at the said area.

In this regard, the locals of Dollungmukh had lodged an FIR against the executive director of NHPC Dollungmukh for negligence.

Reportedly, Circle Officer Marpe Riba called on the

NHPC Executive Director Rakesh to help and call search operation team like the NDRF to search for the two missing persons.

However, the NHPC executive director allegedly rejected the request and said that he had already spoken to the local MLA and deputy commissioner, and that there was no requirement to talk to a lowranking officer like a circle officer.

Reiterating their demand for sending in rescue teams, the association also requested that financial assistance be provided to the family members of the deceased.

DC frowns on bridge and road projects Pangin, June 22: Expressing displeasure at the poor pace and quality of bridge and road projects being carried out by Public Works Department, Boleng, Deputy Commissioner Rahul Singh has ordered inquiry against the executing agency by expert committee.

After reviewing the progress of various construction activities, Singh observed poor quality and bad shape of - i) Extension and Improvement of Pangin Township Road, ii) Motorable Suspension Bridge over river Siang at Sangam and iii) Road from

Sangam to Pangin (.914 km) and has constituted a six members expert committee comprising T Jonnom (EAC) as Chairman and DD(UD), DPO, F&AO, AE(RWD) and AE(WRD) as members and directed the committee to submit its report within 15 days. (DIPRO)

Yoga fever grips Changlang

Tayal joins as new SP of East Siang district ET Correspondent Pasighat, June 22: Pranav Tayal, IPS took charges of Superintendent of Police of East Siang District. The officer bears an outstanding academic record. Hailing from Delhi, B.Tech (Electrical) Tayal was inducted to IPS in the year 2011. He served as Assistant Commissioner of Police in sensitive Daryaganj and Ambedkar Nagar, Delhi for last four years.

Having studied the present working pattern with the police officers, SP Tayal chalked-out strategies to tackle law and order and

crime control in his first meeting. He instructed the

officers to ensure public safety and focus on crime

prevention and detection efficiently and in speedy

manner. On traffic regulations, he opined that common mindset needed to change first. People should obey and respect traffic rules and further stated that all available resources would be utilized to maintain safety, security, peace and tranquility in the society. While interacting with the members of ABK and WASE (NGOs), Tayal appreciated their courage and efforts. He urged them to register their grievances fearlessly adding that higher importance would be given to community policing bridging the gap between the police and civilians.

ET Bureau Changlang, June 22: In accordance with the Prime Ministers initiative to celebrate the International World Yoga Day, Assam Rifles in conjunction with the civil administration orga-

nized a yoga class at the headquarters in Changlang on 21 June. Yoga, an invaluable gift of India's ancient tradition, embodies the unity of mind and body, thought and action and develops an holistic approach to health

and well being. The yoga session witnessed wholehearted participation from the civil administration, the local police, Assam Rifles soldiers and --- school students. 10 yoga asanas were practiced by the gathering.

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, JUNE 23

PAGE 4

Villages under Dhemaji suffers due to flood ET Correspondent Dhemaji, June 22 : The villages under Naruathan, Ghuguha and Samajan goan panchayat which was flooded in last month, by Jiadhal river is again flooding since last two days due to continues rain on the hill.

AASU chief adviser Dr. Samujjal Kumar Bhattacharya demanded shoot at site order to check poaching in KNP Shambhu Boro Tezpur, June 22 : Reacting strongly over the on-going alleged unchecked poaching of world famous one horned rhino in Kaziranga National Park, AASU adviser, Dr. Samujjal Kumar Bhattacharya demanded the new BJP led Assam government to take something exceptional measure like shoot at sight against the poachers. The AASU adviser interacting with the media persons here last night after attending the 47th Bishnu Rabha Divas organized by Tezpur Unit AASU at Swahid Bakori here further opined that until and unless the wide network involved in the alleged poaching of wild life including the world famous one horned rhino in

All the rivers flowing through Lakhimpur and Dhemaji district are fully flooded by which Brahmaputra too following in high.

The body of the girl Priyanka Namasudra who was drowned in a boat accident of Simen river is not yet recovered, according to the villagers body is dumped somewhere which will come out only after water decreases.

the wild life and the natural resources of the region from their core of heart.

Dr. Samujjal Kumar Bhattacharya Kaziranga over the years is uprooted, saving of the one horned rhino in Kazairnag national park will not be a possible act. Appreciating the government’s sincere initiative in this regard Dr. Bhattacharya appealed the government and the forest minister as well to form a special security force with the local indigenous Assamese youths who love

“Without giving vigorous punishment to this evil element that have been killing the world famous wild life in nexus with the high profile officers of the forest department and political leaders, we will not be able to check this burning issue which is related with the dignity of the Assamese people and the region.” He said adding as a quick intervention over the matter, responsibility of security to the KNP should immediately be handed over to the army. On the otherhand, replying to the queries of the media persons regarding the ongoing NRC-up gradation process, Dr. Bhattacharya

Lakhimpur celebrates International Cattle Yoga Day in befitting manner smuggler Correspondent School in association with brief lecture on yoga. A of Dhubri ET Meeting on erosion by Ananta Lakhimpur, June 21: The Lakhimpur Yoga Samaj, seminar was also organised International Yoga Day was Patanjali Yoga Samity and at mid-day in the auditodies in BSF celebrated in Lakhimpur Sports Association. rium of the District Library Nallah, Dibru and Dangari District in befitting manner The program began at 7am in which Sanjeev Borah, Dr firing by the District Administra- and was inaugurated by Mukunda Rajbonshi, ET Correspondent Dhubri, June 22: When cattle smuggling was on unabated through the Indo-Bangladesh porous border in Dhubri and South Salmara-Mancachar districts, a cattle smuggler, Samad Ali (45) died on the spot during firing from BSF jawans last night.

A source in BSF said that Ali and few other smugglers were allegedly crossing the international border with cattle under the barbed wire fencing at Diperchar border area under Mancachar police station of South Salmara-Mancachar police station defying the BSF warning.

A police team from Kharuabandha rushed to the spot and brought the body for post mortem and investigating into the incident.

Family members, however, lodged an FIR alleging murder of Ali.

tion and other social organizations and academic institutions.

Lakhimpur District Administration observed the IYD at the playground of North Lakhimpur Govt. HS

District Development Commissioner, Dibakar Doley.

Yoga Instructor Rajesh Malpani and Azad Hazarika elaborated the rules of practicing yoga in the program.

Taking part in the program MLA Utpal Dutta delivered

Purandar Baruah and Dr Mridul Borah delivered lecture as Resource Persons. It was anchored by Dr Suresh Dutta. A competition on Yogasana and Yoga demonstration were also held in the program.

Huge quantity tobacco products seized in Tinsukia, 4 detained Rishu Kalantri.

Tinsukia, June 22: Tinsukia police conducted several raids and seized 4 cartoons tobacco and 10 bags tobacco leaves on Wednesday. Police has detained four persons in this connection namely Aditya prasad, Md sahid ali, Ganesh Shah and Dhanik Shah.

Superintendent of Tinsukia police Mugdha Jyoti Mahanto said, the raids were conducted at Chirwapatty and Bura Bazar of the town and recovered made.

A case has been registered and legal action will be taken as per law, he added.

Mahanto said, police will soon reach the collars of the kingpin who is controlling the supplies of tobacco and tobacco products in the district despite a ban on selling of tobacco and its product.

Irrespective of however influential person he may be as highlighted in the media police is not going to spare anyone, he added.

It may be mentioned that as

per Assam Health Bill 2014 selling, storage and distribution of tobacco in the state is banned and a provision of jail for a period ranging from 1 to 5 years has been made in the law. Despite this, kind pin of tobacco in Tinsukia is openly selling zarda (Tulsi) and other gutka products at black. A pan shop owner told ET correspondent that he buys zarda at around rupees 6, MRP of which is rupees 5 and hence sells it from rupees 7 to 10.

Majuli will be declared district and is already under process, says CM Sonowal ET Correspondent Jorhat, June 22: “It was my promise before the election hours, so I have to do otherwise I will be cursed by the people of Majuli, they voted me depending upon our NDA government lead by Narendra Modi at the centre, the people of India has been witnessing our style and

commitment and we follow our commitment, and Majuli will be declared district, all its work is in pipeline most of its work are in process”, said Sarbananda Sonowal the Assam Chief Minister while talking to this correspondent at the Circuit House, Goromur on Tuesday last.

On the other hand Narsingh

Pawar (IAS), the subdivisional officer (Civil) said, “hectic paper works is under process for upgradation of the island from sub-division to a full flagged district, and Assam will be proud of having 33 districts, but Majuli will be unique throughout the globe”.

“The Sattra Adikars from the Majuli Sattras welcomes the

initiative of the CM Sarbananda Sonowal and pray for more strength and a super spirit for more development of the state, said Shri Shri Janardhan Devo Goswami, Sattra Adhikar of Uttar Kamalabari Sattra.

Japanese encephalitis outburst in Tinsukia, claims life of a 12-year old businessman son Contd. from Page 1 Hadn't their-been negligence on part of air ambulance company as alleged chances that Mulund could have survived was probable.

However, Mukund's last rites were carried at around 2.30 in the noon at Tinsukia cremation ground amidst huge mourning by his family members on one hand and anger and deep frustration by others present due to lack of health facilities here in Tinsukia and Dibrugarh.

Sukamal Jain, one of a closest friend of Mulund's father Dinesh Birmiwal questioned that why there is no proper

health service and ambulance services despite people paying so much of taxes.

The child was admitted three days back at a lifeline hospital in Tinsukia town with fever.

The hospital could not diagnosed the reasons forget about the treatment, alleged Jain and added that after wasting several hours hospital authorities referred him to Dibrugarh and washed away their hands off their duty.

Another close friend of Dinesh Birmiwal said, what saddened and worsened the situation was that neurologist was supposed to check up the patient at 6.00 pm but he came at 9.00 pm only after checking

Mahat Chandra Talukdar manages to kill 184 rhinos at KNP during his tenure Contd. from Page 1 during his tenure at Agaratoli a total of 77 rhino was reported killed, while 107 was killed at Bagori by poachers. It is to be mention that, both the ranges were highly concentrated for the endangered one horn rhino, during his tenure a total of 184 rhinos were killed at KNP, informed highly placed official sources here.

Mahat Chandra Talukdar used to finance the poachers to procure arms, ammunitions, silencers, magazines, high power torch, night vision cameras, binoculars etc mostly from Dholabari, Dimapur, Siliguri and Moreh markets, which was revealed by the police

during interrogation from poachers who were arrested recently by Bokakhat police which included eight among two women, still in police custody.

“Mahat Chandra Talukdar also bribe several lakhs to senior officials at Guwahati and Bokakhat to get transferred to Agaratoli Range where he helped to kill innocent one horn rhinos basically at the sixth edition of the Kaziranga National Park and even kept rhino horns for 10 to 15 days or more at his working place and at his residence, where no security personnel could think of and then transfers horn of the dead rhinos to unknown destinations”, informed sources here.

all regular patients knowing very well that the patient was admitted in ICU ward.

He further alleged that there was leakage in the oxygen pipe and even after doctors telling that his treatment is not possible here the hospital authorities performed MRI on Tuesday following which his health further worsen and he had to be put up on ventilator.

“Earlier on Monday we booked air ambulance from Pushpak Travel agency who confirmed that air ambulance will be available on Tuesday but at around 1.30 in the midnight they changed their commitment and said that although ambulance will reach

on Tuesday but it will fly on Wednesday only”, he alleged and added that there after we were left with no choice and book ambulance through other agency.

He said that most of the hospitals here are concentrated on how to increase bill and criticized the air ambulance service in this region.

Back here Deputy Commissioner of Tinsukia, Puru Gupta confirmed 5 positive cases of JE in Tinsukia district out of which 2 patients died. However, he said it cannot be confirmed yet that Mulund case is that of JE.

CM Sonowal directs DCs and SPs to take all possible measures to protect the Rhinos Contd. from Page 1

"Whatever measures need to be undertaken will be adopted for protecting the rhinos and Kaziranga National Park - the World Heritage site. We will take advice from international experts on protection of rhinos," Sonowal said.

"Anyone linked to the poaching of rhinos in Kaziranga National Park

will not be spared,” he said.

The Chief Minister appealed to the people living on the fringes of the park to remain alert against rhino poachers and urged them to also identify poachers and those having links with them. Sonowal also appealed to the journalists to help the Government in its efforts to stop the killing of rhino once and for all.

rivers held at Doomdooma

ET Correspondent Doomdooma, June 22: A public meeting was held recently at the historical Mayamora Tipuk Simaluguri Bajrapur Satra premises to discuss the intense erosion by the Ananta Nallah, Dibru and Dangari rivers since long.

who adopted a number of resolutions and appealed the government to take scientific measures to solve the year long problem.

It has foreshadowed the existence of more than twenty villages of greater Kordoiguri area which falls under Doomdooma circle and includes Mayamora Tipuk Simaluguri Bajrapur Satra too.

An organization was constituted in this regard namely," Barekuri Kordoiguri Baan Gorakhohonia Pratirodh Sangram Mancha with Dhaurdhar Moran as President, Majid Moran as working President and Binod Chutia as general Secretary. Bitupan Moran was selected Publicity Secretary.

The meeting was presided over by Someswar Moran

It may be mentioned here that a large portion of land

belonging to the Satra has already been eroded.

Moreover, other areas of Kerani, Dorjijan, Goriyating and several other villages were also eroded by the Ananta Nallah. The locals have been demanding the government to solve this problem permanently but the government has not taken any concrete step regarding this.

It must be mentioned here that the Water Resource Department is on record to have sanctioned a large amount but the locals alleged that the problems of the locality is yet to be solved fully.

urged the helping hand of the government employee for preparing a correct NRC. Moreover, sharing his views regarding keeping memory of four doyens including Kolaguru Bishnu Prashad Rabha, Rupkwor Jyoti Peashad Agarwala, Nata Surya Phani Sharma and music legend Dr. Bhupen Hazarika alive he demanded the government to prepare curriculum on them in every standard of academic course. “Chair on each of the four cultural icons should be opened in every university of the region for delving deep into them by the young generation.” He maintained and urged the government to name any public institution like auditorium or community hall after the four cultural icons.

Panigaon HS School, LTK College observes International Yoga Day ET Correspondent Lakhimpur, June 22: Panigaon Higher Secondary School and Lakhimpur Telahi Kamalaboria College observed the international Yoga Day along with the other part of the state.

Panigaon HS School organised a Yoga Awareness seminar in the School auditorium with the practice of the Asanas, Pranayamas and Meditation.

The seminar commenced from 11am and it was chaired by Hemanta Saikia, the Principal of the School while Subject Teacher Girinda Das elaborated the purpose of the program.

Yoga Practitioner Ranjit Kakati participated in the program as the Resource Person and delivered an illustrative lecture on the significance of the 'Day' and the practice of yoga.

On the other hand, LTK College celebrated the 'Day' in association with Pragya Sadhan Dhyana Yoga Kendra.

Telahi Development Block observes International Yoga Day ET Correspondent Lakhimpur, June 22: Telahi Development Block of Lakhimpur District yesterday observed the International Yoga Day at the Community Hall located at the Madhya Telahi GP premises as per government guidelines.

By lighting the ceremonial lamp, the program was kicked off by Suramai Borah, the President of Madhya Telahi GP. Telahi AP President Gopi Das inaugurated the program which was anchored by Extension Officer

structed by the Ministry of AYUSH. He delivered an illustrative lecture on benefits of practicing yoga.

Rangai Rajkhowa.

Taking part as the Resource Person in the program, yoga practitioner

Ranjit Kakati had the gathering practiced the Asanas, Prnayamas and Meditation as per 'Common Yoga Protocol' in-

The officials of Telahi Development Block, local people, the teachers, students of Madhya Telahi ME and High Schools, all Supervisors of Telahi ICDS projects, Workers, Helpers, children of Angan Wadi Centers were present in the program. The students demonstrated Yogasanas and performed a cultural function in relation with the program.

Landmark meeting between Bhutan and India held at Guwahati Contd. from Page 1

This meeting had the delegates taking stock of the status of implementation of the work plan developed for the region and also discussing about the emerging issues especially with reference to proposed developmental activities having potential negative impact and continued anthropogenic pressure on the forest resources. The delegates expressed their concerns on ongoing deforestation activities in the TraMCA landscape and expressed the need for scaled up government efforts to arrest deforestation on an urgent basis.

Restoration of the denudated forest areas and their protection was also discussed as the only possibility of regaining lost habitats.

It is worth mentioning here

that Manas Tiger Reserve has already lost about 40% of its forest cover to encroachments and development activities, since it was declared a Tiger Reserve in 1973. Mr. D.P. Bankhwal, IG Forest, National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA), Guwahati says, “Ecosystems are like Humpty Dumpty. If the balance is lost, it is lost forever. No amount of riches or power can bring it back.”

The meeting was also addressed by Mr. D. Mathur,PCCF & HOFF, Assam, who appreciated the effort of the Indian and Bhutanese in bringing the group together which is now well recognized internationally. He has also assured all support to see its progress further. A Swargowari, CHD, Forest Department of Bodoland Territorial Council expressed that the TraMCA

concept that gained momentum during the last six years is moving in right direction due to the effort of all the stakeholders.

The delegation from Bhutan, lead by TenzinWangchuk, Park Manager, Royal Manas National Park has expressed concerns with current and proposed developments in the landscape and emphasised on further strengthening the collaboration of the TraMCA partners to achieve its long term goals.

In the meeting, a report on joint monitoring of tigers was also released by Mr Mathur.

The report presents the finding of joint monitoring of tigers in both Manas National Park, India and Royal Manas National Park, Bhutan. The study identified 21 individual tigers in the study area that

covered approx. 600 sq km of India and Bhutan Manas in TraMCA. The study also found four individual tigers that are common to Bhutan and India Manas, indicating that the connectivity is crucial in the TraMCA region to protect tiger as well as other biodiversity of the area. A previous study in the TraMCA in 2011-12 reported 14 individual tigers. The study was carried out during February-May 2015 simultaneously in India and Bhutan across the boundary by Forest officials and researchers from Aaranyak and WWF. No facet of conservation in TraMCA was left behind in this discussion which included delegates from agencies ranging from tourism, wildlife conservationists and biologists to government agencies. The following are a few salient discussion points of the meeting.

REGION

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, JUNE 23

PAGE 5

Meghalaya's Sonja wildlife is home to rare Indian ape species Shillong , June 22: Known for its scenic beauty, Meghalaya is home to several rare animal species.

Among them is the Western Hoolock Gibbon, popularly known as the Huro in Tura. It is the only ape species found in India and can be found in the Selbagre Hoolock Gibbon Reserve in Meghalaya's West Garo Hills District.

Situated about 40 km from Tura, in Silsotchigre, is the Sonja Wildlife Rescue Centre where Western Hoolock Gibbons are being rehabilitated.

The centre has been successfully generating

Court grants two weeks' time to police Shillong, Jun 22: High Court of Meghalaya on Tuesday granted police two weeks' time to submit the progress report into the FIRs relating to alleged education scam pertaining to the appointment of assistant teachers in governmentrun lower-primary schools in the state.

The court passed the order after East Khasi Hills district police chief M Kharkrang informed the Court that the Investigation Officer (IO) could not come and file the progress report related to the matter due to the sudden demise of his father-in-law.

The court granted two weeks' time while accepting the request of Kharkrang in this regard.

However, the personal appearance of the Kharkrang was dispensed with in future.

Source, however, said the father-in-law of the Investigation Officer N Thohrem passed away on June 19 whereas the Court had passed an order giving two weeks' time to place the progress report related to the education scam on June 3.

Sources pointed out that during the two weeks' time which expired on June 17, the Investigation Officer should have prepared the progress report. Sources also said that the Investigation Officer has been promoted to the rank of DSP on June 9.

It was on October 21, 2011, that the judge of then Shillong bench of the Gauhati High Court, Justice T. Vaiphei (now a judge of Tripura High Court) had passed an order directing for an inquiry by the CBI into the alleged large-scale manipulation and irregularities in the appointment of assistant teachers in government lower-primary schools in 2009. BJP on Edu scam: Meanwhile, BJP's Meghalaya incharge Nalin Kohli has slammed the State Government over the infamous education scam which rocked the state in 2009.

Speaking to media persons on Tuesday, he said that education scam is the tip of the iceberg.

He said that if BJP comes to power in 2018 it would bring to light the scams committed by the Mukul Sangma-led Congress government.

(Agencies)

awareness among locals regarding the conservation of the endangered Gibbon.

Many youth are engaged in rehabilitation activities at the centre and are undergoing training by activists familiar with the behavior of apes.

"We have been running the centre for the last nine years. Gibbons are not caught from the wild but have been rescued from villages where they were held illegally. Till date, we have rescued and released a pair of Gibbons," said Sandrick A. Sangma, chief caretaker at the Sonja Wildlife Rescue Centre.

The efforts made by the

rare western Hoolock Gibbon.

"Well very interesting.

This kind of places is very important as it helps creating awareness for the local people as well as about the visitors about the western Hoolock gibbons," said Graham Chaplin, a British tourist.

Many researchers and even students from Meghalaya's Sonja wildlife is home to rare Indian abroad visit the centre to ape species conduct research and study about the rarely centre are commendable Last year, the centre re- found ape. They underas there has been little habilitated a pair of Gib- line the need for promoawareness about apes in bons at the Nokrek Bio- tion of the centre as the the Garo Hills. It has suc- sphere Reserve. Tourists ape itself is an attraction ceeded in creating much who have been visiting for tourists. needed attention among the centre appreciate the "I am doing a research on locals. efforts made to preserve my tourism purpose and

this is one of the places that can attract tourists easily and can be promoted. Seeing the conservation and rehabilitation of animals here it enlightens me to certain extend that this animals are really endangered and most of the researchers, people who wants to know about this animal can come and visit for better understand about the animal," said Gino Sangma, a researcher.

At present, there are eight gibbons at the rescue centre and are given proper care as per the guidelines of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) norms. (ANI)

CorCom opposes India's membership bid in NSG Imphal, Jun 22: The Coordination Committee (CorCom) has raised strong objection to the Government of India's attempt to enter the league of the elite Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).

A representation jointly signed by UNLF Chairman and CorCom Convenor Khundong bam Pambei, PREPAK Acting Chairman Khumujam Shathy, PREPAK(Pro) Chairman Longjam Paliba and RPF president Irengbam Chaoren and addressed to the NSG Chair asserted that the Government of India does not deserve any respect and therefore must not enjoy NSG membership.

Manipur was forcibly annexed by India on October 15, 1949, they alleged.

India's membership to NSG will buttress its agenda to building a monolithic nuclear power block in the region, which will in turn become the instrument of oppression by the exploitative market forces that have been erected to enjoy the spoils of unjust war. The propaganda postulation about India's sincerity and commitment to the exchange lists of NSG is a strate-

gic invention. Its objective to become a member of NSG is to manipulate it to fulfil its super-profit objectives, alleged the statement.

Empowering the Government of India by giving membership to nuclear control regimes and letting it to grow into nuclear sophistication and technological and resource supports will shrink breathing space of subjugated and oppressed Nations.

Scramble for superprofit, backed by nuclear sophistication, will escalate conflict among enemy countries and render many in Asia into vulnerabilities.

India is not a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), it is not a party to a nuclear weapon-free zone treaty, it does not join the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), and it is not making any legal commitments identical to NPT articles concerning its nuclear arms.

The Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) was founded in response to the Indian nuclear test in May 1974, which demonstrated that nuclear technology transferred

by Canada and US for peaceful purposes could be misused to building

nuclear weapons.

India is not civilized and truthful as France, the founder member of the elite group NSG and signatory of NPT therefore cannot be compared with France to be a member of NSG. "India's desire to be a member of the NSG comes from its conviction that the NSG is a useful forum to advance global non-proliferation objectives, and India can contribute positively towards that end by being a NSG member".

This statement is nothing but a mere propaganda as India's joining NSG is purely political. If it is not a mere propaganda or political, the question is why India does not follow the existing criteria of admission to NSG. The approach exemplifies India's concealed agenda to enhance its nuclear weapon productions to become a powerful player in Asia, particularly in South Asia unleashing nuclear weapon competition, added the statement.

India, so far, continues to refrain from signing NPT or CTBT in order to escape from nuclear control norms, which will jeopardise its vested nuclear agenda. It will strengthen India's domi-

nation over smaller Nations in South and SouthEast Asia. India imposes considerable sphere of pressure and influence upon Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

India's finance expansionism is spreading in Southeast Asia under the cover of its Act East Policy, added the statement.

India's alleged colonial system is enforced in Western Southeast Asia Region (Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura) and Jammu & Kashmir. Apart from direct military engagement with revolutionary forces in Manipur, Government of India indulges in waging proxy war through creating counter-revolutionary armed groups and communal forces, it continued.

In the alleged occupied territories, Government of India violates several international humanitarian laws such as Universal Declaration of Human Rights, International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, United Na-

tions Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and Common Article 3 of the Geneva Convention of 1949.

Draconian laws such as Armed Forces Special Powers Act, National Security Act, Unlawful Activities Prevention Act and series of other repressive laws are instrumental in suppressing popular democratic movement for economic and political rights. The alleged Indian colonial regime and its army operate in such a sophisticated and orchestrated way that the international community cannot easily understand or recognise the entire consequences of the overt and covert Indian colonialism, it alleged.

De-nuclearisation of India will contribute a lot to National liberations, social emancipations, sustainable development and long term durable peace in Asia and World as well.

"We, therefore, on behalf of the oppressed people of Manipur, humbly appeal to the elite member States of NSG not to allow India's entry into NSG without honouring the present criteria of admission and without any meaningful commitment to nuclear disarmament treaties as well", CorCom concluded. (Agencies)

Newly introduced policemen carried momentous passing out parade ceremony in Tripura Agartala, June 22 : Dressed in their parading costumes, a contingent of 554 newly trained Tripura police personnel carried out a momentous passing out parade ceremony at K.T.D Singh Police Training College in Tripura.

The 83rd batch comprises of cadets from different parts of Tripura, who completed an eleven months basic training.

Tripura Chief Minister, Manik Sarkar and other senior police officials were present to grace the occasion.

"The main duty of police is to help the administration in maintaining law

and order. The second duty is to maintain peace, harmony and unity. The third duty is to stand beside people during crisis like natural or man-made disaster and play an active role," Sarkar said.

The newly trained cadres have been trained for counter insurgency operations. They have also undergone rigorous training including stress management, disaster management, human rights, use of different arms and ammunitions, forensic science, and community policing.

"Right from my childhood I wanted to join the Tripura Police to serve

Dressed in their parading costumes, a contingent of 554 newly trained Tripura police personnel carried out a momentous passing out parade ceremony my motherland. I have pledged not only to protect my family, but the entire country. I am very happy that my wish and

dream have been fulfilled today," said Raman Singh, a newly inducted Cadre.

"I always wanted to join

the security force since I was young and now I am finally a part of it. I want to help the administration and protect the people of my state. We are quite happy today as we passed out after nine months of rigorous training. We are really very happy," said a passed-out Cadre, Rabadul Hussain.

The Tripura government has set-up four All Women Police Stations in the state. Five more such stations are likely to come up.

The new recruitments have been made to increase the police presence in the interiors of the state. (ANI)

NH-2cut off again, womenfolk target AR post Kangpokpi, Jun 22 : Barely a few days after the 10 days economic blockade imposed on all the National Highways connecting the State to the rest of country was lifted, National Highway-2 has been cut off from about 4.30 pm after a confrontation broke

out between womenfolk and personnel of 35 Assam Rifles at Hengbung, near Kangpokpi on Tuesday.

The flash point came when the Assam Rifles personnel arrested four KNF cadres who were being used as body guards of the KNF presi-

dent.

The KNF is a signatory to the SoO pact and its president accompanied by the four body guards was attending a function at Hengbung when the Assam Rifles personnel arrested the four.

This prompted the womenfolk of Sadar Hills to

gather and proceed towards the Assam Rifles post.

Till the time of filing this report, the confrontation between the womenfolk and the Assam Rifles personnel was still on.

During the confrontation the womenfolk

blocked NH-2 and threatened not to open the highway until all the four arrested KNF cadres are released.

Sources said that the AR personnel recovered three guns from the four body guards picked up on Tuesday.(Agencies)

Tripura tightens security ahead of tribal outfit's blockade call

Security has been beefed up in Tripura Agartala, Jun 22: Security has been beefed up in Tripura after a tribal outfit called for rail and road blockade on Wednesday to press its demand for a separate state.

The Indigenous People's Front of Tripura (IPFT), which has been agitating for the past few years for creation of a separate state, has called for the rail and road blockade at Baramura hill range in western Tripura.

"We have made adequate security measures in and around the rail and road blockade sites. Tripura State Rifles and central paramilitary forces would be deployed in the areas," Inspector General of Police (Law and Or-

der) Anurag said."

Suitable security measures have been put in place. Senior police officials would supervise the situation and steps would be taken," he added.

The IPFT wants the separate state to be carved out of Tripura, by upgrading the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC).

The ruling Left Front is now at the helm of the TTAADC, which was formed by amending the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution in 1985.

IPFT President Narandra Chandra Debbarma accused the Left Front government of creating the TTAADC only as a "lame duck institution" having no real powers.

(Agencies)

"We have made adequate security measures in and around the rail and road blockade sites. Tripura State Rifles and central paramilitary forces would be deployed in the areas,"

APSCS petition filed a petition at the High Court of Manipur Imphal, Jun 22: The Association of Premier State College Seniors, Manipur has filed a petition at the High Court of Manipur seeking revision of pension amount of pre-2006 pensioners who had served the Government colleges as Readers and Lecturers (SG).

In a statement, the association said that the petitioner is an association formed by the pensioners/ family pensioners who retired from service before 2006 after rendering their services for the advancement and educational upliftment and welfare of the State.

The association further said that it is an undeniable fact that while the members of the association were in service they enjoyed the scale of pay as formulated/revised by the University Grant Commission as well as the Ministry of Human Resource Development from time to time.

After the implementation of the recommendation of the 6th Pay Commission Report, the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pension, Govt of India issued the office memorandum dated 0109-2008 for the revision of pension/family pension on the basis of the recommendation made by the 6th Pay Commission in respect of the employees who retired/died prior to January 1, 2006.

The association said that benefits of the said scheme had to be implemented by the Govt of Manipur as the required fund had been released for all the States by the Centre.

However, the benefits of the same have been de-

nied by the authority concerned for years inspite of various assurances made to the petitioner without assigning any plausible reason, it added. Since 1976, State education is in the concurrent list, the association said and added that education is no more the exclusive responsibility of the State.

The State and the Centre entered into an era of working together in partnership to promote excellence at all levels of educational pyramids in the country, the association said.

Saying that the Centre since then started dispensing 80 per cent of the expenditure towards the payment of the UGC scale of pay, association added that the substantive financial and administrative implication is jointly operated till date.

It is also mandatory on the part of the State authority to implement the schemes formulated by the Govt of India to make uniform service condition and pay scales of the University and college teachers throughout the country once the scheme is implemented, the association added.

Unfortunately, however to the members of the association such rights and privileges have been denied by the State Govt till date. As such, a writ petition has been filed seeking interference by the Court and directing the authorities concerned to implement the scheme within a stipulated period so that the benefits of the same can be accrued to the petitioner within a stipulated period, the association added. (Agencies)

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, JUNE 23

PAGE 6

ISRO record launch: PM Modi lauds Indian scientists for 'monumental accomplishment' New Delhi, June 22 : With the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) scripting history by launching 20 satellites in a go, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday lauded Indian scientists for the 'monumental accomplishment', saying that ISRO continues to break new barriers.

In a series of tweets, the Prime Minister said that India' space programme has shown the transformative potential of science and technology in people's lives.

"Over the years we developed expertise & capability to help other na-

tions in their space initiatives. This is the skill of our scientists," he said.

Asserting that he felt immense joy when he saw students from institutions in Pune and Chennai playing a role in the making of satellites, the Prime Minister said he was touched by this development.

"As a common citizen, was totally immersed in happiness to see our youngsters excelling & taking so much interest in science. Witnessed with immense pride and delight the brilliant moments on TV & took photos for my Instagram account," he added.

Congress calls for 'unbiased, transparent' probe after ED's notice to Vadra's company

Congress leader P.L Punia New Delhi, June 22 : The Congress Party on Wednesday called for an 'unbiased and transparent' probe in the matter related to Robert Vadra, the sonin-law of Congress president Sonia Gandhi, after the Enforcement Directorate (ED) as part of its investigations into an alleged land scam in Bikaner, issued a notice to a firm allegedly linked to him.

"There should be an unbiased and transparent probe in the matter. It should not be aimed to harass anyone deliberately," senior Congress leader P.L Punia told.

"The law is equal for all and if a fault is found, then action should be initiated but the investigation must be transparent and unbiased," he added.

Punia also criticised the NDA government for targeting the Congress Party and people related to it, after assuming office.

"Since this government has assumed office, they have been targeting us.

They are highlighting the issues pertaining to the Congress. They are using the media to portray as if there was serious implica-

tion but till now there has been no case, where the irregularities have come to the fore," he added.

The reaction from the Congress leader came after the Enforcement Directorate reportedly issued a notice to a firm, allegedly linked to Vadra as part of its investigations into an alleged land scam in Bikaner.

According to sources the notice has been issued to Skylight Hospitality firm, under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The ED had earlier on May 6 conducted searches at eight premises in Bikaner and nearby areas, belonging to accused Jay Prakash Bagadwa, Ranjeet Singh, Kishore Singh, Gugan Gir and certain government officials, including retired ones like Faqir Mohammed, Uma Charan, Deeparam and Mahavir Swamy, in connection with the case.

The ED registered a money laundering case against certain real estate developers and Rajasthan government officials to pro-be the Bikaner land scam. (ANI)

Sacked UP minister breaks down, says my relations with 'Netaji' can't change Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh), June 22: Uttar Pradesh Minister Balram Yadav, apparently sacked for facilitating the merger of Quami Ekta Dal (QED) of gangster-turned-politician Mukhtar Ansari with the ruling Samajwadi Party, on Wednesday broke down and said that he would abide by the high command's decision.

Recalling his association with the Samajwadi Party, he said that his relations with party supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav would never change.

"My relationship with the Samajwadi Party and 'netaji' (Mulayam) cannot change ever. I have completed all the tasks given to me by the party with full dedication and diligence," Yadav told the media.

"I am with the Samajwadi Party since its inception. I welcome the decision of the party, I will adhere by my party's command and will keep on fulfilling my responsibility towards it," he added.

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav yesterday sacked Yadav, who is believed to have negotiated the merger of Samajwadi Party and jailed legislator Mukhtar Ansari's Quami Ekta Dal. "Balram Yadav, holding charge of Secondary Education Ministry, has been removed (from the Council of Ministers) by the Chief Minister," a senior official said.

However, no official reason has been given regarding Yadav's sacking from the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet.

(ANI)

tions as the primary payload and 19 other micro and nano satellites.

Making two unique records, ISRO launched an unprecedented 20 payloads in a single mission from the second launch pad of Satish Dhawan Space Centre.

The mission lasted for 26 and a half minutes by which time all satellites Prime Minister Narendra Modi ISRO launched 20 satellites, including 17 foreign payloads, using its flagship rocket Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) C34 from its Satish Dhawan Space

Centre in Andhra Pradesh's Sriharikota today.

The launched vehicle lifts off with India's Cartosat 2 series satellite meant for earth observa-

were put into a polar synchronous orbit of 505 km height one by one.

Later, the fourth stage engine of the rocket is going to be subjected to a complex experiment by re-igniting it twice to check for its ability to launch many satellites at different heights in a single mission. (ANI)

"ISRO launched 20 satellites, including 17 foreign payloads, using its flagship rocket Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) C34 from its Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Andhra Pradesh's Sriharikota on Wednesday."

No 'vendetta' against Vadra: Govt. on Bikaner land deal case New Delhi, June 22 : Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju on Wednesday said there is no vendetta behind the Enforcement Directorate's notice to a firm linked to Congress president Sonia Gandhi's son-in-law Robert Vadra land in Rajasthan's Bikaner city, adding nobody is above the law of the land.

"If someone does something wrong and violates the law, where this point of vendetta comes? Nobody is above law in this country; everyone is equal before the law," he told.

Earlier in the day, the Congress demanded an 'unbiased and transparent' probe in the matter and said that it should not be aimed to harass anyone deliberately.

"The law is equal for all and if a fault is found then action should be initiated, but the investigation must be transparent and unbiased," Congress leader P.L. Punia told.

"Since this government has assumed office, they have been targeting us.

They are highlighting the issues pertaining to the Congress. They are using the media to portray as if there was serious implication, but till now there has been no case where the irregularities have come to the fore," he added.

The Enforcement Directorate has reportedly issued a notice to a firm allegedly linked to Vadra as part of its investigation into an alleged land scam in Rajasthan's Bikaner city.

According to sources, the notice has been issued to Skylight Hospitality firm under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The Enforcement Directorate had earlier on May 6 conducted searches at eight premises in Bikaner and nearby areas in connection with the case.

The Enforcement Directorate registered a money

Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju laundering case against certain real estate developers and Rajasthan government officials to probe the Bikaner land scam.

No political witch hunt against Vadra, it's just law taking its course: BJP

The investigation is related to the purchase of 275 bigha land allegedly by the company in the Kolayat area of Bikaner.

(ANI)

"Since this government has assumed office, they have been targeting us.

They are highlighting the issues pertaining to the Congress. They are using the media to portray as if there was serious implication, but till now there has been no case where the irregularities have come to the fore,"

BJP spokesperson Nalin Kohli New Delhi, June 22: After the Congress asserted for an un-biased investigation against Congress president Sonia Gandhi's Son-in-law Robert Vadra over his alleged involvement in land scam in Bikaner, the Bharatiya Janata Party on Wednesday took a jibe at the grand old party and said there is no political witch hunt going on against Vadra and that he should comply and respond to the Enforcement Directorate's (ED) notice.

BJP spokesperson Nalin Kohli told that it is merely a continuation of the examination and investigation to the allegations against Vadra and that questions related to his land holdings came up during the UPA-led Congress government.

"This matter is being investigated. Questions related to Mr. Robert Vadra's land holdings came up during the UPA-led Congress government and one can see the pattern, at that time it was said that law will take its own course. If law is taking its own course and if notices have come he should comply and respond to them," said Kohli.

"There is no political witch hunt here it is merely continuation of the examination and investigation to the allegations against him," he added.

Calling for an unbiased investigation against Vadra, the Congress earlier today criticised the NDA govern-

ment for targeting the Congress Party and people related to it, after assuming office.

"There should be an unbiased and transparent probe in the matter. It should not be aimed to harass anyone deliberately," senior Congress leader P.L Punia told.

"The law is equal for all and if a fault is found, then action should be initiated but the investigation must be transparent and unbiased," he added.

The Enforcement Directorate reportedly has issued a notice to a firm, allegedly linked to Vadra as part of its investigations into an alleged land scam in Bikaner.

According to sources, the notice has been issued to Skylight Hospitality firm, under the provisions of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

The ED had earlier on May 6 conducted searches at eight premises in Bikaner and nearby areas, belonging to accused Jay Prakash Bagadwa, Ranjeet Singh, Kishore Singh, Gugan Gir and certain government officials, including retired ones like Faqir Mohammed, Uma Charan, Deeparam and Mahavir Swamy, in connection with the case.

The ED registered a money laundering case against certain real estate developers and Rajasthan government officials to pro-be the Bikaner land scam. (ANI)

North Korea fires two missiles, draws flak from Japan, US

Have a list of 27 people I need to 'fix': Subramanian Swamy New Delhi, June 22 : After waging war on Chief Economic Advisor Arvind Subramanian, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Subramanian Swamy on Wednesday said that he has a list of 27 people with him, who are working within the government and need to be 'fixed'.

Staying true to his promise of training guns on bureaucrats 'loyal' to the Congress, Swamy said that he Subramanian to be sacked, as he had badmouthed India in the international arena and had also encouraged the grand old party to become rigid on their GST Bill clauses.

Speaking here after he tweeted against Arvind, Swamy reiterated his salvo he had used against RBI Chief Raghuram Rajan, saying that the CEA was a 'green card holder' and was probably not an Indian citizen.

"He used to work in America and he is also a green card holder type. I don't even know if he is a citizen or not but I'm sure he has a green card. There was this American Congress Committee for pharmaceutical purposes and they held a hearing to figure out India's opinion on the matter. There he said in a statement that India was not working according to America in this mat-

Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Subramanian Swamy ter and for that, they should be taught a lesson in WTO. How can we can such a person an advisor here?," Swamy said.

Continuing his assault, he added that when Arvind was appointed by the Indian government, he gave a note to the Finance Ministry asserting that the clauses given by the Congress in the GST Bill were absolutely justified.

"I think that such people who can fail our government should be tossed out.

Now, it's been two years and I think it's about time.

I have a list of 27 people in the government and I will slowly, one by one, fix them soon," he added.

Earlier in the day, Swamy had launched a scathing attack on Arvind in a series of tweets.

"Who said to US Cong on 13/3/13 the US should act against India to defend US Pharmaceuticals interests?

Arvind Subramanian MoF !! Sack him!!! Guess who encouraged Congi to become rigid on GST clauses ? Jaitely's economic adviser Arvind Subramanian of Washington DC," he tweeted.

This development comes days after Swamy announced that his next 'project' is to expose a group of bureaucrats loyal to Congress Chief Sonia Gandhi.

"My next project is to expose 27 bureaucrats who are in various Ministries and loyal to TDK. They were handpicked and positioned by PC," Swamy said in a tweet.

Earlier, Swamy had wel-

come Rajan's decision to leave his post as the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor on the completion of his term, saying that he had taken such a step in order to save his 'self respect'.

"Was he getting a second term in the first place?

How do we know that he was getting a second term? I have no information that he was getting a second term. So if he says he wants to go and wants to save his self respect, I have no problem. Let them pretend that he is giving up and going but as long as he goes, it's good," Swamy told .

Swamy had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May asking for the dismissal of the Reserve Bank of India governor.

Rajan had earlier announced that he would return to the academic world at the end of his term on September 4, 2016, adding he will always be available to serve his country when needed and asserted that his 'successor' would take the nation to new heights.

Rajan is currently on leave from the Chicago Booth School of Business where he holds the post of Distinguished Service Professor of Finance.

(ANI)

New York, June 22 : North Korea fired two missiles from its eastern coast on Wednesday, claimed South Korean and U.S. officials.

Commander Dave Benham, spokesman for the U.S. Pacific Command said both are believed to be Musudan intermediate-range missiles, fired from the North Korean port city of Wonsan.

South Korea's Unification Ministry spokesman Jeong Joon Hee called Pyongyang's move provocation towards the country.

"According to the U.N. Security Council resolution, any launches that involve ballistic missile technology are a violation of the treaty and we think this is clearly a provocation towards us," CNN quoted Jeong as saying.

According to the South Korean military official, the first missile flew 93 miles (150 km), and is considered a failed launch.

While the second missile traveled 249 miles (400 km) and the data is still being analyzed by the South Korean military.

Pyongyang has made at least four attempts this year to test this type of missile, reports suggest.

Commander Benham said that both missiles were tracked over the Sea of Japan, also known as the East Sea. Stressing that the move was in violation of U.N. resolutions, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said that his country could "never forgive" the test.

"We can never forgive this and lodged a firm protest. We would like to continue taking a close coordination with the U.S. and South Korea and working on North Korea (at) the United Nations, so that North Korea would not conduct such an action again," he said.

The first missile launch occurred at 5:58 a.m. local time and about two hours later, North Korea fired the second missile at 8:05 a.m. local time.

The U.S. State Department also condemned the missile tests in a statement.

"We are aware of reports that the DPRK fired two ballistic missiles. We are monitoring and continuing to assess the situation in close coordination with our regional allies and partners," said U.S. State Department spokesperson John Kirby.

Kirby said that Washington has Pyongyang to stop its ballistic missile tests and said it only strengthened the international community's resolve to press forward with U.N. sanctions.

"We remain prepared to defend ourselves and our allies from any attack or provocation," he added.

Despite facing strict UN sanctions, North Korea remains undeterred and continues to conduct test like such on regular basis.

In just four years, since Kim Jong-un took control of North Korea's affairs, the country has reportedly witnessed 27 missile launches with the two most recent tests today.(ANI)

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, JUNE 23

Not lobbying against Pakistan's interests says ex-envoy, after Aziz's remarks

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif Islamabad, June 22 : Reacting strongly to the comments made by Sartaj Aziz, Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's advisor on foreign affairs, the country's ex-envoy to the United States, Husain Haqqani, said that he was not lobbying against Islamabad's interests as claimed by the former.

Addressing lawmakers in the National Assembly yesterday, Aziz claimed that a former Pakistani ambassador to the U.S. was ' lobbying against his own country' and 'creating hurdles for the government', the Dawn reported.

He however, did not mention the name of the ambassador.

Haqqani, in his rejoinder said he knew that Aziz was talking about him because another minister had attacked him by name with similar claims.

Government officials should take "responsibility for failed policies, instead of looking for scapegoats to divert attention from criticism at home," the Dawn quoted him, as saying.

"A former Pakistani ambassador is working against his own country in the U.S.," Aziz said, adding that Pakistan's diplomatic mission in the U.S. is facing challenges due to the former ambassador's campaign.

Haqqani in a statement clarified that he is now a scholar in the U.S. and not a lobbyist.

He pointed out that if his opinions as a scholar carry so much weight that U.S. policy is being affected, then the Pakistan Foreign Ministry should try to influence his opinions rather than

treating him like a pariah and making false allegations against him in the Pakistani media.

"Pakistan's difficulties in the U.S. were the result of years of supporting 'jihadis' and making excuses that are having less and less effect on Americans.

Moreover, Pakistan's dependence on US aid made it susceptible to changes in the US national mood and attitude," Haqqani said in a statement.

Elaborating on the reasons for the trust deficit witnessed in relations between Islamabad and Washington US relations, he said, "I did not make the AQ Khan network, support the Taliban as they killed US soldiers in Afghanistan or allow UN designated terrorist groups to function openly so there is no point in blaming me for these policy failures.

Neither I nor any other former ambassador was responsible for the OBL fiasco."

Aziz with revealing the identity of the person had said "The Foreign Office has serious reservation on the activities of the said person in the US." The adviser also said that Islamabad is 'making successful efforts' against New Delhi's Nuclear Suppliers Group membership.

His remarks comes days after Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj said that New Delhi is "not opposed" to Islamabad's entry to the NSG. Aziz said Islamabad is pursuing a balanced policy based on non-interference and protection of national interests and nuclear assets. (ANI)

Flight carrying bodies of Nepalese killed in Kabul suicide attack arriving home Kathmandu, June 22 : A special aircraft of the Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) will be bringing back the bodies of 12 Nepali citizens who were killed in a suicide attack in Kabul , on Wednesday.

The aircraft also airlifted 24 other Nepalese working in Afghanistan, reports the Himalayan Times.

The Nepal government on Tuesday had said that it was ready to evacuate its citizens working in Afghanistan if they wanted to return home.

The flight is scheduled to land at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) at around 3 p.m..

According to reports, Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli will also visit the airport.

As many as 12 Nepali workers were killed and

Flight carrying bodies of Nepalese killed in Kabul suicide attack arriving home

seven others injured when a suspected Taliban suicide bomber targeted a minibus they were travelling on Monday.

The Nepalis were on their way to the Canadian Embassy where they were working as guards. They were hired by a British security consultancy firm, Sabre International, for the security of Kabul-based Canadian mission.(ANI)

PAGE 7

NEIGHBOURS

India committed to support and preserve Afghanistan's unity, territorial integrity: Syed Akbaruddin Kabul, June 22: Asserting that the United Nations Security Council needs to look into the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan, Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin, India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, said that Kabul has New Delhi's full support in strengthening its defence capabilities to preserve its unity and territorial integrity.

Speaking at the UN Security Council Debate on United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) yesterday, Akbaruddin highlighted that if the security situation is not contained, it poses serious threats to the region.

"The Security Council needs to look into the deteriorating security situation and the means to contain it as it could pose serious threats to the gains made by the people of Afghanistan in the last 15 years," he said.

"Afghanistan has our full support for strengthening its defence capabilities to preserve its unity and territorial integrity, as it is the most important antidote to the worsening security situation in the country," he added.

Expressing condolences at the loss of lives and property in the bomb attack in Kabul on June 20, in which around 20 people had died, Ambassador Akbaruddin stressed on the fact that attacks by the Taliban in the region were on the rise.

"The Taliban are continuing attacks at an unprecedented rate since the beginning of the year and there is continued violence by other armed groups. As per the Secretary General's Report armed clashes have increased this year compared to the same period in 2015. This situation has put renewed focus on the need for enhanced engagement and action by the international community," he said.

Ambassador Syed Akbaruddin He also pressed before during the UN Security Council Debate that those perpetrating violence in Afghanistan should not be allowed to exercise control in any part of the region.

"Groups and individuals that perpetrate violence against the people and the Government of Afghanistan cannot have safe havens and should not be allowed to exercise control and wield influence over any part of Afghanistan's territory.

This, in our view, is criti-

cal for lasting peace in the country," he said.

Ambassador Akbaruddin said that Security Council sanctions on regimes like Al-Qaeda, Taliban should be carried out consistently.

The effective implementation of the Security Council sanctions regime including the 1267 ISIL / Al-Qaeda Sanctions regime and the 1988 Taliban's regime should also be carried out consistently and with perseverance for it to serve as a strong deter-

rent to the listed entities / individuals. It is sheer folly that the leader of a proscribed entity is not yet designated as a terrorist individual," he added.

Speaking at the joint inauguration of Friendship Dam on June 2016, he recalled, "Prime Minister of India Mr. Narendra Modi and the President of Afghanistan Mr. Ashraf Ghani inaugurated the Afghanistan-India Friendship Dam. As, Prime Minister Modi mentioned then, India's capacity may be limited but our commitment to Afghanistan is without limits."

He also highlighted the signing of Chahbahar trade and transit agreement signed by India, Afghanistan and Iran on May 23, which India hope will provide a new path to prosperity and reliable access to Afghanistan.

He reiterated that India is strongly committed to supporting Afghanistan in various plurilateral and multilateral fora.

Pakistan continuing to sell nuclear materials to North Korea, reveal U.S. sources Karachi, June 22: Pakistan is continuing to sell nuclear materials to North Korea, while at the same time urging the international community to accept its membership to the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), according to highly placed U.S. sources who are involved with the tracking of nuclear commerce.

In making this dramatic revelation, the sources said that entities of the Pakistan Energy Commission (PAEC) have been continuing to supply restricted items such as ' Monel ' and ' Inconel ' material to North Korea in violation of U.N. sanctions.

The sources said that nuclear materials supplied to the PAEC by Chinese entities have also found their way to North Korea, with the China Atomic Energy Authority (CAEA) recently receiving a written complaint that supplies of a Chinese com-

pany, Beijing Suntech Technology Company Limited, to Pakistan were being diverted to North Korea by the Pakistani authorities.

The Chinese Government hushed up the matter as it could have consequences for Beijing's bid to support Pakistan at the NSG. But this information leaked out of North Korea and came to the knowledge Of Western Governments who are members of the NSG. In another alarming revelation, informed sources said Pakistan has been giving North Korea equipment which has a direct bearing On producing nuclear weapons.

Sources said the Beijing Suntech Technology Company Limited manufactures Vacuum Induction Melting (VIM) furnaces which find application in refining hard metals such as uranium and plutonium, which are used in making nuclear warhead cores. Pakistan is known to have pro-

cured these items from China and has passed them along to North Korea.

When asked if this evidence of Pakistan's illicit nuclear trade with North Korea has been brought to the notice of NSG nations, U.S. sources said all proof and evidence which confirms the violation of sanctions against North Korea and more so the ongoing dangerous nuclear trade has been brought to the notice of "those who need to be informed at the NSG level."

Behind the scenes Pakistan is aware that it's nuclear trade with North Korea has been uncovered, but is counting on China to keep the global pressure at bay, said sources.

Giving details of North Korea's nuclear commerce links with Pakistan, informed sources mentioned that two North Korean diplomats - Kim Yong Choi and Jang Yong Son --posted

in the North Korean Embassy in Tehran visited Pakistan eight times between 2012 and 2015.

They were associated With the Korea Mining Development Trading Corporation ( KOMID ) - an entity sanctioned several times by the United Nations Security Council since 2005 for its involvement in North Korea's Weapons of Mass Destruction ( WMD ) programme.

These diplomats met with Pakistani officers involved in the nuclear program. They were tracked and investigated by the Western authorities as yet another proof of Pakistan's continuing nuclear links with North Korea.

Based on Western inputs on these links, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) 1718 Committee, which is monitoring the implementation of sanctions against North Korea, sought information from Pakistan in November 2015 regard-

ing the frequent visits of the two North Korean diplomats from Tehran to Islamabad and Karachi.

At first, say informed sources, Pakistan denied it, but when confronted with photographs and other recorded evidence, Pakistan acknowledged that the two North Korean officials under investigation had indeed visited Islamabad and Karachi.

Highly placed sources said that the West has so far kept this information under wraps in recognition of Pakistan's value in the war against terror.

But now, when Pakistan has gone into overdrive to upset the equilibrium of the NSG, Western nations of the grouping are saying that Islamabad needs to "look at itself in the mirror " and ask "how can it run with the hare and hunt with the foxes", meaning it can't claim to fulfill the NSG's requirements, and at the same time, sell nuclear weapons materials to North Korea. (ANI)

China to play constructive role in NSG Plenary Meeting in Seoul Beijing, June 22: Noting that the upcoming Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) Plenary Meeting on June 23 in Seoul is only to deliberate on the entry application of countries that are state parties to the NonProliferation Treaty (NPT), China said that it hopes to further discuss the issue and added that it will play a constructive role in the discussions.

"Deliberation on the entry of specific countries is on the agenda of the Seoul Plenary Meeting.

However, it is worth noting that the meeting is only to deliberate on the entry application of countries that are state parties to the NPT," the office of the Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said.

It, however made it clear that the agenda of Seoul Plenary Meeting circulated by the chair does not include the entry of

China to play constructive role in NSG Plenary Meeting in Seoul non- NPT countries in the blocked. group.

"The NSG has never put "As for the entry of non- the entry application of NPT countries, the group non-NPT countries on its has never put that on its agenda. So, it makes no meeting agenda. Based on sense to say that discuswhat we have at hand, the sions are blocked," it said. agenda of this year's Seoul The spokesperson's office Plenary Meeting circu- revealed that the 48-memlated by the Chair does not ber Nuclear Suppliers include this issue either," Group has had three unthe Office added. official discussions on It further clarified that dis- various issues related to cussions on the entry ap- the entry of non-NPT plication of non-NPT countries through the countries has not been Friends of Chair platform,

which was presided over by the Argentine Ambassador.

"Although parties are yet to see eye to eye on this issue, such discussions help them better understand each other. China hopes to further discuss this issue and will play a constructive role in the discussions," the Office added.

China, till now, has been playing the role of a dampener on the issue of clearing the way for India's admission to the NSG by repeatedly stating that it is not on the agenda of the grouping, which began its plenary session in Seoul on Monday.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj had earlier insisted that China is not blocking India's entry to the NSG, but is talking about the criteria and procedures.

With India leaving no stone unturned to ensure its entry into the group,

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be meeting Chinese President Xi Jinping in Uzbekistan capital Tashkent on Thursday in an attempt to win Beijing's support for India's membership.

Highly placed sources told that the meeting between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping would be an exclusive one-on-one discussion, where the top agenda would be to seek China's support for India's membership in the NSG. On the other hand, the United States has called on the participating governments of the NSG to support India's application for membership The plenary discussion on the matter will be held in Seoul tomorrow and the final meeting in which India and Pakistan's fate in the NSG would be decided will take place on Thursday. (ANI)

Ambassador Akbaruddin said that India looks forward to hosting Heart of Asia Ministerial Conference in December 2016. " We welcome cooperation of Participating Countries as well as Supporting Countries and Organizations for the Ministerial Conference and related events in political, security, economic, connectivity and cultural spheres, to be organized in the run-up to the Conference," he said.

He added, "We believe that the path to reconciliation in Afghanistan should be through an Afghan-led and Afghan owned process respecting the red lines drawn by the people of Afghanistan and the international comm unity especially the ones regarding giving up of violence and abiding by the constitution of Afghanistan."

The ambassador also applauded the role of UNAMA in providing assistance in the various sectors of Afghanistan's transformation decade. (ANI)

Pak only nation opposed to India's NSG membership: Zamir Akram Islamabad, June 22: Pakistan's former Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Geneva Zamir Akram has said that Islamabad is the only country opposed to giving 'exclusive membership' to India in the 48-member Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).

Akram's comments are a follow-up to what Indian Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj said that India does not object to any country, including Pakistan, joining the NSG on merit.

"Pakistan supports the evolution of criteria that can be applied across the board," the Dawn quoted Akram, as saying.

The ex-diplomat was speaking at a roundtable discussion organised by the StraÂtegic Vision Institute (SVI), a think tank, on the implications of the upcoming plenary session of the NSG. The NSG plenary session is scheduled to be held on June 23-24 in Seoul.

While New Delhi seeks a merit-based approach, Islamabad reportedly has been insisting on uniform and transparent criteria for non-NPT states.

Akram also warned about the likely implications of a scenario if India alone was admitted into the NSG. His warning included dimming of future prospects for Islamabad's entry into the club and likely growth in Indian nuclear arsenal.

He was of the observation that India was one of the worst proliferators.

Akram recalled that New Delhi once had scornful disdain for non-proliferation regimes, which has now been conveniently forgotten by the world.

India and Pakistan are both non-signatories of NonProliferation Treaty and are striving to make into the Nuclear Suppliers Group.

While India is being backed by many countries including the United States, Pakistan is being backed by China to make in into the 48-member nuclear trade cartel.

At a meeting of the group in Vienna on June 9, some other countries, including a few of those which had earlier pledged support for Indian case, voiced reservations over Indian candidature. (ANI)

PAGE 8

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, JUNE 23

India and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization

Self death Widely seen among youths At least 15 suicides took place every hour in the country during last year, which saw over 1.31 lakh people ending their lives, with government data also noting that Maharashtra saw the highest number of such cases while Chennai heads the list among cities. Data released by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) also said that as many as 69.7 per cent of those who commitPhoto: orig02.deviantart ted suicide had an annual income of less than Rs 1 lakh while one out of every six persons who took the extreme step last year was a housewife. According to PTI, Maharashtra saw 16,307 suicide cases in 2014 followed by Tamil Nadu (16,122) and West Bengal (14,310), the data said. The percentage break-up of the three states' share vis-avis the suicide tally stood at 12.4, 12.2 and 10.9, respectively.

Among the mega cities, which have a population of over 10 lakh, Chennai reported the highest number of suicides with 2,214 deaths followed by Bengaluru (1,906), Delhi (1,847), Mumbai (1,196) and Bhopal (1,064). The rate of suicide in cities was marginally higher at 12.8 per cent as compared to the all-India suicide rate of 10.6 per cent, the report added.

It said that 'family problems' (other than that linked to marriage) contributed to 21.7 per cent of the suicides while illness related-issues were behind suicides in 18 per cent of the total cases reported last year.

Data also shows that one out of every six suicide cases was a housewife and the overall male-to-female ratio for suicides during the 2014 was 68:32. The highest cases of suicide, 19.7 per cent, was seen among the self-employed with housewives accounting for 15.3 per cent of the total, daily wagers 12 per cent, salaried persons 7.4 per cent, students 6.1 per cent and retired people 0.7 per cent. As many as 69.7 per cent of those who ended their life had an annual income of less than Rs 1 lakh while 26.9 per cent had an annual income of between Rs 1 to Rs 5 lakh, the report said.

According to a report of WHO, 258,075 people committed suicide in India in 2012, with 99,977 women and 158,098 men taking their own lives.

India's suicide rate was 21.1 per 100,000 people, according to the report. The most suicide-prone countries were Guyana (44.2 per 100,000), followed by North and South Korea (38.5 and 28.9 respectively).

Next came Sri Lanka (28.8), Lithuania (28.2), Suriname (27.8), Mozambique (27.4), Nepal and Tanzania (24.9 each), Burundi (23.1), India (21.1) and South Sudan (19.8). More than 800,000 people die by suicide every year - around one person every 40 seconds, according to the report.

Virtual crime Huge obstacle for India Also according to Cyber Crime Awareness and Victim Counselling Assam (CCAVCA), an NGO engaged in combating cyber crime, dissemination of information for responsible and informed usage of cyber technologies is critical to building capacities to prevent and deal with incidences of cyber crime more effectively. It can be said as the biggest challenge these days with development and access to technology across the globe. With increasing dependency on technology - be it cell phones, tablets or laptops, a new breed of tech-savvy fraudsters is coming out with new and more innovative ways of carrying out cyber attacks, thus posing a new set of challenges. Cyber crime has been increasing at an alarming rate in India. The number of cyber crime cases registered under the IT Act in 2011 were 1791, an 85% increase since 2010. Hacking has been one of the most commonly used methods of cyber attack. According to a National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), there has been a tremendous rise in the number of hacking incidents reported in India.

The number of hacking cases registered under the IT Act increased from 510 in 2010 to 983 in 20111.

As per PwC analysis, this number is expected to increase to 1450 in 2013, a 184% since 2010.

As per report, Assam recorded 533 cyber crime cases in 2013 and 2014. According to 2013 data, the incidence of cyber crime jumped by 450 per cent compared to the previous year's figure, recording 154 cyber crime cases, while the number of persons arrested was just two. In 2014, cyber crime rate jumped by 146.10 per cent, with a total of 379 cases. A corresponding improvement, though, marked the number of the arrested, which stood at 351. But the conviction rate was not encouraging.

Cyberspace is increasingly being used to radicalize young minds, With increasing inter-connectivity in the world, many challenges are there and thereby must find ways to tackle these challenges and address the security loopholes in the networks.

Ways and method to tackle the problem of cyber crime should be adopted as soon as possible. Incidents of cyber crime are increasing at such an alarming rate that most of the reported crimes of the present time are somehow seen to be categorized under the greater umbrella of cyber crime.

What India's membership means for the organization as well as New Delhi.

The Shanghai Coopera- States that appeared after tion Organization (SCO) collapse of the Soviet is expected to witness its Union in 1991. This was first expansion since its transformed into today's establishment 15 years SCO with the induction of ago at the forthcoming Uzbekistan as a new Summit in Tashkent on member at the Shanghai June 23-24, 2016. At the summit in 2001. last Summit in Ufa, Rus- Since its establishment, sia in July 2015, the group the SCO has concluded decided to admit India and several wide-ranging Pakistan. agreeOver the Ashok Sajjanhar ments on last year, security, hectic parleys have been trade and investment, conunderway to finalize this nectivity, energy, and culissue. ture. Their implementaUntil a few weeks ago, tion, however, remains knowledgeable sources uninspiring. This is partly expressed doubts as to because the SCO lacks whether the process for coherence. Having been India's membership would created at China's behest be completed on time be- with Russian support, the cause of reported road- SCO is still grappling to blocks and objections evolve as a well-knit enraised by China. It is no tity. Nevertheless, the sigsecret that China has been nificance of the SCO canreluctant - if not outright not be underestimated behostile - to India's mem- cause of the presence of bership in the SCO. China large territorial and ecointroduced several ob- nomic powers like Russia stacles to the process; as and China, as well as the a result, it took five years geopolitical space that the (from 2009 to 2014) for grouping occupies. the SCO to decide on in- The geographical and ducting new members. strategic space which the However, finally on May SCO straddles is of criti24, 2016, after a meeting cal importance for India. of SCO foreign ministers India's security, geopolitiin Tashkent, the foreign cal, strategic, and ecominister of Uzbekistan nomic interests are closely announced that the heads intertwined with developof SCO member-states ments in the region. The will sign "at the upcoming ever present and expandsummit in Tashkent a ing challenges of terrormemorandum on commit- ism, radicalism, and instaments of India and Paki- bility pose a grave threat stan with the goal of ac- to the sovereignty and inquisition by them a status tegrity not only of India, of SCO member-states but also of countries in its [sic]." Barring any last minute unforeseen developments, India and Pakistan should enter the SCO at its impending Summit in Tashkent.

It has been a long haul for India. India became an observer to the organization at its fifth summit in Astana, Kazakhstan in 2005. Since then, India has subtly indicated its interest in playing a more substantive role in the development of the SCO. It was felt by most members, particularly Russia and Kazakhstan, that the grouping would benefit hugely from India's active association.

The SCO decided in 2009 to initially focus on its vertical consolidation before broader neighborhood. embarking on a horizon- In addition, the Central tal expansion. The mora- Asian region is richly entorium on expansion was dowed with natural relifted two years ago, after sources and vital minerals. which India formally ap- With the Central Asian states landlocked, and plied to join.

Given this 10-year jour- Uzbekistan even doubly ney, the upcoming summit landlocked, accessing will be a momentous oc- these resources becomes casion for India as well as arduous and prohibitive.

Trade is dependent on pasthe SCO. sage through third counIndia and the SCO The SCO emerged from tries and the political disShanghai Five (China, pensation of regimes in Russia, Kazakhstan, power. Major powers, both Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan) regional and farther away, which was founded in compete to secure and pos1996 after demarcation of sibly control access to China's borders with the these resources; closely four newly independent linked with this endeavor

is the search to create credible transport routes that pass through friendly countries. India is no exception.

To get around the lack of direct land connectivity with Central Asia, and Pakistan's refusal to provide access through its territory, India is actively collaborating to develop the Iranian seaport of Chabahar, with possible financial and technical support from Japan. An agreement to develop Chabahar and an associated rail-network at a cost of $500 million was signed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the presidents of Iran and Afghanistan during his recent visit to Iran. India has also prioritized the construction of the International North-South Transport Corridor. Joining the SCO will be a welcome diplomatic boost to India's efforts to connect with Central Asia.

Meanwhile, India's membership in the SCO will add further heft and muscle to the organization, particularly against the backdrop of continuing weakness in the international economy and anemic global demand.

India today is the fastest expanding global economy, with annual GDP growth of 7.5 percent. It represents the third largest economy ($8 trillion) in PPP terms and

The threat of terrorism to the region is particularly grave on account of continuing violence in Afghanistan, which can embolden regional groups like the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan or Hizb-ut-Tahrir to destabilize governments in Central Asia. seventh largest ($2.3 trillion) in nominal dollar terms. It also inspires confidence on other indicators, such as FDI, inward remittances, savings rate, and pace of economic reforms.

SCO members also are well aware that India is an energy deficient country. Central Asia and Russia are extremely well endowed with fossil fuels, including oil, gas, and coal as well as uranium and hydropower potential. India's rapidly expanding energy needs will provide a stable and assured market for these

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) is expected to witness its first expansion since its establishment 15 years ago. (Photo: images.indianexpress) countries. The groundbreaking for the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) pipeline in December 2015 was a long overdue step in the right direction.

Central Asia is part of India's extended neighborhood. India's relations with countries in the region, however, have failed to realize the enormous potential for enhancing ties in areas such as security, policy, economy, trade, investment, energy, connectivity, and capacity development. One reason is simply that India does not share common landborders with the region, but another factor has been the infrequent visits at the highest level between India and Central Asian states.

India's membership in the SCO will provide a welcome opportunity for India's leadership, including prime ministers, to meet with their counterparts from Central Asia, Russia, China, Afghanistan, and others regularly and frequently. India's potential participation in the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU) will be an added advantage to make this partnership more fruitful.

India has demonstrated its keen interest in strengthening multi-faceted relations with Central Asia through Modi's historic visit to the five Central Asian republics in July 2015. Several agreements were signed and new initiatives launched. The TAPI gas pipeline represents a shining example of a mutually beneficial project. In the future, India's development experience, particularly in promoting agriculture, small and medium enterprises, pharmaceuticals, and information technology, can be of immense benefit to Central Asian countries.

Dealing with Terrorism and Radicalism On the security front, the SCO remains committed to fighting the so-called "three evils" of terrorism,

separatism, and religious extremism. Here too there is much room for cooperation, as India has been a victim of terrorist attacks for the last 30 years, during which it has lost several thousand innocent children, women, and men.

The threat of terrorism to the region is particularly grave on account of continuing violence in Afghanistan, which can embolden regional groups like the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan or Hizb-utTahrir to destabilize governments in Central Asia.

Although China has made deep inroads into Central Asia on the economic front, Russia continues to be the prime security provider for Central Asian countries. Both India and Russia can collaborate to expand cooperation in this region.

The scourge of radicalism also looms large over the region, with the expanding influence of Islamic State (ISIS). Cadres from the Taliban, al-Qaeda, and other established militant groups have joined Islamic State's ranks. Although exact figures are hard to come by, reportedly several hundred young men and women have fled their homes in Central Asia to bolster ISIS forces that are spreading their tentacles to Central Asia, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.

The interest of all countries in the SCO, as well as those outside who are battling the menace of terrorism, will be well served by India's active and direct engagement with the grouping. India has an enviable track record in handling terrorism and radicalism. Thirty years of battling terrorism has provided invaluable understanding and skills to the Indian security establishment in the fields of intelligence gathering, training, and foiling terrorist operations. India can share its experience and best practices with SCO members to mutual benefit and advantage. India can also expand its collaboration with the Re-

Dibrugarh Municipality

gional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) based in Tashkent, Uzbekistan for the promotion of all around safety, security, and peace.

In the near future, the SCO will need to step up to the plate and assume responsibility to provide security in Afghanistan in the aftermath of the withdrawal of U.S. and NATO forces. India will get an opportunity to play its due role in stabilizing the situation in Afghanistan, which is currently on a disturbing trajectory on account of the expanding reach and influence of Taliban.

One security question the SCO will likely not tackle will be India's border disputes. Some analysts, particularly Chinese scholars, argue that since the SCO and its predecessor organization were established in part to settle borders between neighboring states, the induction of India and Pakistan will enable the SCO to get involved in settling their border dispute.

This appears to be mere wishful thinking. It is unlikely that the membership of India and Pakistan will provide any leverage to the SCO in resolving their bilateral dispute until Pakistan decides to abjure the use of terrorism against India as an instrument of its foreign policy. India has made it abundantly clear on innumerable occasions that there is no role for third-party mediation in the India-Pakistan conflict.

Similarly, the India-China border dispute can be resolved only through bilateral discussions between the two states.

India's membership in the SCO promises to be a winwin proposition for the organization, for Central Asia, for Russia, and for China as well as for India.

A huge potential exists for SCO to play a more substantive role in promoting security, peace, economic development, connectivity, energy security, trade, and investment within the region and beyond. Courtesy: The Diplomat

Best Letter The best letter

of the month in

Image for representational purpose (Photo: cliparts)

Sir, Just one and a half years back, a time was there when people of Dibrugarh started feeling proud of the cleanliness of the city. The then Chairman tried to ensure cleanliness in letter and spirit.

Now, the municipality has been taken over by the BJP. The decency conscious people of Dibrugarh heaved a sigh of relief taking it for granted that the municipality would undertake cleaning in a more serious way and Dibrugarh, undoubtedly would be declared the cleanest city of Assam. But now, several months have elapsed since taking over charge by the BJP and no such change could be noticed. Rather things are going from bad to worse.

Before the assembly election, our ward-commissioner when contacted, let us know that fund allotted to Dibrugarh Municipality by the state government is not adequate. We fail to understand, why the municipality fails

to live upto the people's expectation. the Letter to the Does the ramshackle condition of the Editor section dustbins in the H.S. road reflect the true will be awarded identity of the municipality? The broan amount of ken Pucca big-size dustbins remind one Rs 200. So of the antiquities of the Ahom era. please keep Only the other day. Our Chief-miniswriting. ter held a meeting with the Chairman and vice chairman of the municipality Letters to the of Assam to drive home the efficacy of the cleanliness. Apparently Dibrugarh editor and articles municipality cuts a sorry figure. should be sent to :

The Eastern Today Chowkidingee, Near Sankardeva Hospital Mancotta Road, Dibrugarh786001 (Assam) Ph: 0373-2328944 Yours etc Email : Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh

editor.easterntoday@gmail.com

JOBS & career

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, JUNE 23

Various Jobs in Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, June 2016 Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat. Last Date: 30/06/2016.

Applications are invited from Indian citizens for direct recruitment of Assoc.

Deans, Lakhimpur College of Vety. Science and Biswanath College of Agriculture/ Assoc. Director of Extension Education (Publication and Information/Training)/ Associate Director of Research/Deputy Registrar (Personnel)/Lady Medical Officer/Secretary to Vice Chancellor, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat.

1. Associate Dean (Tenure post of 5 years) Pay : Rs. 37,400 67,000/ + Grade pay 10,000/ p.m. (UGC) (a) Biswanath College of Agriculture, Biswanath Chariali (b) Lakhimpur College of Veterinary Science, Joyhing, North Lakhimpur 2. Associate Director of Extn. Education (Publication and Information), AAU, Jorhat (Tenure post of 5 years) Pay : Rs. 37,400 67,000/ + Grade pay 10,000/ p.m. (UGC) 3. Associate Director of Extn. Education (Training), AAU, Jorhat. (Tenure post of 5 years) Pay : Rs. 37,400 67,000/ + Grade pay 10,000/ p.m. (UGC) 4. Associate Director of Research, (Tenure post of 5 years) Pay : Rs. Rs. 37,400 - 67,000.00 + Grade Pay of Rs. 10,000/ p.m. (UGC) 5. Deputy Registrar (Personnel), AAU, Jorhat Pay : Rs. 12,000/ 40,000/ + Grade pay of Rs. 6,300/p.m.

6. Lady Medical Officer, AAU, Jorhat Pay : Rs. 12,00040,000/ + Grade Pay of Rs.6, 100/p.m.

7. Secretary to Vice Chancellor Pay : Rs. 12,000/ Rs. 40,000/ + Grade Pay of Rs. 6,100.

Age: Age limit as on 01.01.2016: 38 years (maximum). The age is relaxable by the number of full years of service rendered in AAU/ICAR/CSIR/DST/SAUs and other Govt. Institutions up to a maximum of 5(five) years as supported by the relevant documents for the post of Lady Medical Officer & Secretary to Vice Chancellor. For other posts, age is no bar.

Application Fee: Application fee is to be deposited at Powerjyoti Account of the University lying with the State Bank of India, AAU Jorhat Branch (A/c No. 33019714091). For payment, a Challan copy may be downloaded from the University website and fee paid Challan copy is to be enclosed along with the application form. The prescribed fee is Rs. 300/ in case of general candidates and Rs. 150/ in case of SC/ST/PH candidates.

How to apply: Application form in prescribed format is to be submitted to the Registrar, AAU, Jorhat on or before June 30/2016. A self addressed stamped (worth Rs.6/ envelope size 23 cm x 10 cm should be sent along with the application form).

Advertisement Details: Pl check www.aau.ac.in

Page 9

NIRD recruitment 2016 APDCL Recruitment 2016 - Assam Power senior medical officer 7 Distribution Company Ltd vacancies National institute of rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRD) invites application for the position of 07 Administrative officer, senior medical officer, assistant librarian, security officer, junior Hindi Translator, pharmacist, library and information assistant vacancies. Apply before 27th June 2016.

Name of post:- Administrative officer, senior medical officer Eligibility:- Degree, MBBS, master degree, Graduation, SSC, Diploma in pharmacy Job Location:- Telangana and Assam Last Date:- 27th June 2016 Total No. of Posts:- 7 Posts Administration Officer:- 01 posts Age Limit:- The age of the candidate should below 45 years.

Pay Scale:- Rs 15600 - 39100/- Per Month Qualification:- Candidates should have degree from a recognized university.

Senior Medical Officer:- 01 posts Age Limit:- The age of the candidate should below 45 years.

Pay Scale:- Rs 15600 - 39100/- Per Month Qualification:- Candidates should have MBBS from a recognized university.

Selection Procedure:- The selection of the candidates will be on the basis of personal interview depending on the number of applications received.

Age Relaxation:- The upper age of the candidates in relaxable for the following specified categories to the extent indicated below:i) By 5 years for candidates belonging to ST communities. ii) By 5 years for candidates belonging to SC communities. iii) By 3 years for candidates belonging to OBC communities.

How to apply:- Candidates may apply in prescribed application along with relevant documents send to the assistant Registrar (E), National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad:500030 on or before 27th June 2016.

Jobs in Sikkim University, GradeIV Jobs in Jorhat Medical College & Hospital, June 2016 Date: 27/06/2016.

June 2015 Jorhat Medical Last Sikkim University invites applications from dynamic and forward looking Indian citizens having requisite qualifications as per UGC norms for the followCollege & Hospital. ing: Last Date: 25/06/2015.

Applications are invited from Indian citizens in Standard Form for filling up of following vacant posts in Jorhat Medical College & Hospital in the scales of pay and the other allowances as admissible under the rules.

Name of Post: GradeIV No of Post: 04 Educational Qualification: Read up to ClassX. Pay: Rs 2450 Rs 3670/ Age: 18 to 38 years.

5 year of relaxation for SC/ ST candidates.

Fee: Rs 100 to be deposited in the form of Bank Draft.

How to Apply: Pl check www.jmch.org.in/ for more details.

Teaching Positions: 1. Assistant Professor: 02 posts 2. Research Associate: 02 posts 3. Document Officer: 01 post 4. Technical Assistant Archivist: 01 post 5. Office Assistant: 01 post 6. Native Person/Resource Person: 03 posts How to Apply: Application in the prescribed format should be send on or before 27/06/2016 to The Registrar, Sikkim University, 6th Mile Samdur, PO Tandong, Gangtok 737102, Sikkim.

Please visit http://cus.ac.in/index.php/jobendangeredlanguagesjune2016 for details and application format.

APDCL Recruitment notification about for filling up Chief General Manager job vacancies under Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (ASEB Assam) Successor Companies of the erstwhile ASEB in its corporate office needs dynamic and experienced professionals in Finance and Accounts for filling up the following post.

1. Chief General Manager (F&A) in AEGCL = 1 Job Description and Responsibilities : The Chief General Manager (F&A) post is the top post of Finance & Accounts Wing of AEGCL and report to the Managing Director directly. The of?cer is overall incharge of Finance & Accounts Wing of AEGCL and is responsible for formulating and implementing ?nance policies of the Corporation.

Educational quali?cation : The candidate should posses a degree from a recognized University and should be a Chartered Accountant or a Cost Accountant from a recognized University / Institution.

Experience : The candidate should have not less than 10 years of adequate experience at a senior level of management in corporate ?nancial management and accounts including Cost and Budgetary Control, Institutional Finance and Working Capital Management in large Industrial and Commercial undertakings including Public Sector Undertakings and capable to hold independent charge of Finance and Accounts. Preference may be given to those who have experience in the Power Sector.

Pay and Allowances : Pay Band Rs. 14,200/- to Rs. 45,000/- and Grade Pay of Rs. 7.600/- plus DA @ 125%.

HRA @ 15%, Medical Allowance Rs. 600/-, Electricity Allowance Rs. 750/- as admissible as per Company rules in force from time to time.

Age as on 01-06-2016: " Internal: Minimum 45 years and maximum 52 years " Others: Minimum 45 years and maximum 55 years Application Fee: The candidate should pay the application fee of Rs. 500/- only for General categories and Rs. 250/- only for SC, ST(P) & ST(H) categories. The fee should be in the mode of IPO I Bank Draft Selection Procedure: The candidates will have to appear before the Selection Committee of the Corporation at Guwahati at their own cost.

Submission of applications: Prospective candidates should submit their application with full bio-data, with self attested copies of testimonials along with 2 nos. recent passport size photographs to the undersigned within the candidates should submit their application through proper channel.

Application may also be sent to the following email address: cgmhraapdcl@yahoo.com Last date: 30 days from the date of publication of this employment notice (i.e. 09-07-2016).

‘The Eastern Today’ has taken an initiative to present Questions & Answers to help the aspirants in their competitive exams (SSC, Banks, Insurance, etc.).

1). World Refugee Day was observed on 20 June 2016. It has been started celebrating in several countries all around the world from a) 1981 b) 1991 c) 2000 d) 2001 e) 2002 Answer: d) 2). Government has recently approved 100 per cent FDI in a host of sectors including which among the following sectors? a) Civil aviation b) Defence c) Pharma d) Single brand retail e) All the above Answer: e) 3). President Pranab Mukherjee will inaugurate a mass Yoga demonstration involving around 1,000 persons at Rashtrapati Bhavan on 21st June 2016. This is the ______ International Yoga Day. a) First b) Second c) Third d) Fifth e) Seventh Answer: b) 4). Mobile app launched to enhance consumer connect with Urban Power Distribution sector

is a) b) c) d) e)

e) Chandra Shekar Patel UAJA UKJA UMJA URJA ULJA

Answer: d) 5). Which state government has launched Rs.640 crore project for skill development under which multipurpose training centres will be set up in rural areas? a) Madhya Pradesh b) Punjab c) Jammu and Kashmir d) Rajasthan e) Himachal Pradesh Answer: e) 6). India will set up a joint panel of parliamentarians with which country in a bid to boost bilateral strategic ties? a) United Arab Emirates (UAE) b) Saudi Arabia c) China d) Malaysia e) Philippines Answer: a) 7). Who was appointed as the President of Gujarat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) for the term 2016-17 succeeding Rohit J Patel? a) Aithav Chandra b) Gaurav Sharma c) Vikram Chandra d) Bipin R Patel

Answer: d) 8). Virginia Raggi is elected as the first ever female Mayor of a) Vienna b) Havana c) Rome d) Paris e) None of these Answer: c) 9). The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) unveiled the iconic _____ Hybrid Electric Research Plane nicknamed as Maxwell. a) Y-36 b) X-57 c) Z-12 d) X-37 e) A-96 Answer: b) 10). International Cricket Council (ICC) suspended Sri Lanka's fast bowler _______ after an assessment of his bowling action. a) Kulashekara b) Kapugedara c) Shaminda Eranga d) Chaturanga De Silva e) Shehan Jayasuriya Answer: c) 11). Nico Rosberg of Germany won the European Grand Prix Formula 1 championship in a) Vienna

b) Sakhir c) Shanghai d) Baku e) Suva

Acharya b) Vijay Chandra c) Hrushikesh Senapaty d) Chandra Shekar e) Mohantesh Walmiki

c) Bihar d) West Bengal e) Madhya Pradesh

Answer: c)

18). The Eurozone has approved •7.5 billion (about $8.46 billion) in bailout funds for ________ , in what will be the first payment since 2015. a) Turkey b) Italy c) Serbia d) Syria e) Greece

Answer: c)

Answer: d) 12). The Indian mixed recurve team of _____ won silver at the Archery World Cup in Antalya, Turkey. a) Deepika Kumari and Bombayla Devi b) Deepika Kumari and Atanu Das c) Laxmirani Majhi and Atanu Das d) Bombayla Devi and Jayanta Talukdar e) None of these Answer: b) 13). The Centre has cleared _____ crore rupees for the makeover of Ramayana and Krishna circuits of Uttar Pradesh under the Swadesh Darshan scheme. a) Rs.300cr b) Rs.400cr c) Rs.500cr d) Rs.600cr e) Rs.700cr Answer: a) 14). The NCERT is set to organise the first ever 'Yoga Olympiad' for all government and government-aided schools students ahead of the International Yoga Day on June 21. Who is the Director of NCRET? a) Harshavardhan

15). Union Power Minister Piyush Goyal has said all the states have resolved to provide roundthe-clock power supply to every household by March 2019. The Power Minister also announced the launch of the helpline _______ for redressal of consumer's complaints across the country. a) 1911 b) 1912 c) 1913 d) 1914 e) 1915 Answer: b) 16). Which state government has decided to invest Rs.1,000 crore over the next three years towards skill development recently? a) Haryana b) Mizoram c) Kerala d) Odisha e) Chhattisgarh Answer: d) 17). Thailand Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha visited world famous Mahabodhi temple. The temple is located in a) Punjab b) Maharashtra

Answer: e) 19). Which Indian former cricketer has been named the chairman of the National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT)? a) Chetan Sharma b) Chetan Chauhan c) Chandra Sekhar Gadkari d) Devang Gandhi e) None of the above Answer: b) 20). Soram Sunil was sworn in as the mayor of a) Imphal b) Mumbai c) Patna d) Mysore e) None of these Answer: a) 21). Who has been named "the hottest woman in the world" by the magazine 'Maxim In-

Image for representational purpose (Photo: flckr)

dia' as part of its 'Maxim Hot 100' list? a) Katrina Kaif b) Kareena Kapoor c) Deepika Padukone d) Anushka Sharma e) Priyanka Chopra Answer: e) 22). _______ has been named the World's Best Tourism Destination for 2016 by the 'European Council on Tourism and Trade' (ECTT). a) France b) Colombia c) Cambodia d) Poland e) Spain Answer: c) 11). According to a report by software security group Kaspersky, India ranks ___ in the list of hacked servers available for sale on xDedic. a) Second b) Third

c) Fourth d) Fifth e) Sixth Answer: c) 23). Who won the final of Champions Trophy Hockey tournament in London? a) India b) Australia c) Germany d) Belgium e) None of these Answer: b) 24). Which state government has given its approval to set up an AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy) University, the first-of-its-kind in India. a) Andhra Pradesh b) Punjab c) Telangana d) Haryana e) West Bengal Answer: d)

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, JUNE 23

BUSINESS

Government allows 100% FDI for online grocery startups Mumbai, Jun 22: In a boost to retailers and grocery startups such as Bigbasket and Grofers, the government allowed 100% FDI in food retail, including through e-commerce, provided such items are produced, processed or manufactured in the country. This will allow multi-brand retail giants such as Walmart to look at their food business here closely and perhaps even foray into B2C food retail. Currently, the US giant operates a B2B business here since FDI in multibrand retail is not allowed. The US retailer has built a strong backend infrastructure in food. Similarly, the move will help Indian hyper-local grocery startups raise funds more easily. "The decision by the government to allow up to 100% foreign direct investment (FDI)

NASSCOM recognizes Fission Labs for Citizen Services for Smart Cities at TechNgage ANI Hyderabad (India), Jun 22: Fission Labs was recently announced by NASSCOM as the first runner-up at its TechNgage event. It is a prestigious competition that carries the theme of "Celebrating Technology & Technologists". Fission Labs being a first-time participant of this event has established its credentials by winning this competition with its ideas and implementation. Competing against nearly 2500 teams participating from different software firms, Fission Labs team members earned the title of 'World Class Techie'. With the Theme of Citizen Services for Smart Cities (TCSSC), Fission Labs stands as a proud developer of the said system and takes pride in these innovative concepts.

Fission Labs hopes to make these early stage ideas a reality and turn Hyderabad into a world class smart city and make it a blue print for other smart initiatives across India.

Against stiff competition, Fission Labs presented its revolutionary Smart Data Management System the purpose of which is to extract key performance indicators to improve the daily life of an average citizen. At the core, it is meant to demonstrate the power of efficient digital solutions covering essential citizen services like energy, water and emergency services such as fire stations, hospitals among many other services. The system leverages large quantities of data from various governmental organizations and processes them through Analytics thus enabling smart and efficient decision making/ services.

CENT PERCENT ALLOWANCES In a boost to retailers and grocery startups such as Bigbasket and Grofers, the government allowed 100% FDI in food retail, including through e-commerce, provided such items are produced, processed or manufactured in the country.

This will allow multibrand retail giants such as Walmart to look at their food business here closely and perhaps even foray into B2C food retail.

The decision by the government to allow up to 100% foreign direct investment (FDI) through FIPB in marketing of food products produced or manufactured in India, including through ecommerce, is very progressive and will help in reducing wastage, helping farm diversification and encourage industry to produce locally within the country.

This far-reaching reform will benefit farmers, give impetus to food processing industry and create vast employment opportunities.

through FIPB in marketing of food products produced or manufactured in India, including through e-commerce, is very progressive and will help in reducing wastage, helping farm diversification and encourage industry to produce locally within

the country. This farreaching reform will benefit farmers, give impetus to food processing industry and create vast employment opportunities. We will study the policy document when government finalises and issues it," said a Walmart

India spokesperson. The decision comes without any riders, department of industrial policy and promotion secretary Ramesh Abhishek said. The food processing ministry wanted the food retailers to mandatorily invest in back-end infrastructure

The US retailer has built a strong backend infrastructure in food. Similarly, the move will help Indian hyper-local grocery startups raise funds more easily.

Currently, the US giant operates a B2B business here since FDI in multi-brand retail is not allowed.

besides being allowed to sell some non-food goods.

"This initiative (FDI in food retail) could bring in investments in food infrastructure by global players and provide a platform to sell those products manufactured in India, thus opening up the domestic food market," said Sreedhar Prasad, partner-e-commerce, KPMG in India. "Further, this could enable some of the existing e-commerce players to attract FDI in food category where they are selling only products manufactured or produced in India." The government expects it to curb food wastage as well, said Abneesh Roy, associate director at Edelweiss Securities.

Food processing minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal has been seen rooting for FDI in the sector citing heavy food wastage. She said India has been wast-

Mark Zuckerberg decided to be given full control of Facebook Washington, Jun 22: Facebook has approved the creation of 5.7 billion new shares of Class C stock that will keep its CEO Mark Zuckerberg in control as long as he is associated with the social networking giant.

The decision, taken at its annual shareholders' meeting, will help Zuckerberg keep voting control and allow him and his wife Dr. Priscilla Chan to boost philanthropic activities without diluting the voting control, venturebeat.com reported. "I am planning on running the company for a very long time," Mr. Zuckerberg told the members during the question and answer ses-

sion of the meeting. The company also re-elected its board of directors, including investors Marc Andreessen and Peter Thiel. According to a Fortune report, the move gives current shareholders a 3 for 1 stock split.

"It means for every share of Class A or B stock an investor owns, Facebook will offer them two Class C shares as a one-time dividend. Class C stock does not come with shareholder voting power," the report added.

In December, Mr. Zuckerberg and his wife Dr. Priscilla Chan pledged to donate 99 per cent of their Facebook shares about $45 billion - to advance human potential

Facebook's CEO, Mark Zuckerberg. (Photo: a.abcnews) and promote equality for created a new foundation children. Declaring the that would initially focus "Chan Zuckerberg Initia- on "personalised learning, tive" as they welcomed curing disease, connecttheir first girl child ing people and building Maxima Chan strong communities."

Zuckerberg or "Max", the "We will give 99% of our couple said they have Facebook shares during

our lives to advance this mission. We know this is a small contribution compared to all the resources and talents of those already working on these issues. But we want to do what we can, working alongside many others," the couple wrote in a post. Mr. Zuckerberg owns about four million of Class A shares in Facebook and approximately 419 million Class B shares. Each Class B share is worth 10 votes apiece which gives Mr. Zuckerberg majority voting power and control over Facebook's strategic direction. Facebook currently has over 1.6 billion monthly active users.

(Agencies)

INOX associates with Paytm to provide convenience to customers

Vice President Paytm, Renu Satti. (Photo: media.licdn) ANI New Delhi, Jun 22: INOX Leisure Ltd,

India's leading multiplex chain announced an association with India's

largest mobile payments and commerce platform Paytm to sell movie tickets to moviegoers. The ecommerce platform will provide greater convenience to guests and expand the booking platform of INOX across India.

"We, at INOX, have consistently worked towards enhancing customer experience.

In the current technology-driven ecosystem, it is important to innovate in order to stay ahead of the curve. This alliance with Paytm will provide convenience to our audience right at their fingertips," said CEO INOX Leisure

Ltd, Alok Tandon. As a part of its strategy to become an alternative to cash in the daily life of its large customer base, Paytm is aggressively extending its presence across verticals. Considering the current size of movie ticketing market in India, worth USD two billion and growing 10 percent annually, the online movie ticketing market is only 15 percent of the total domestic market.

With over 126 million registered users and 90 million orders per month, Paytm is an incredible platform to reach out to the growing movie aficio-

World's thinnest laptop launched in India SLIMMEST OF ALL Personal computer major HP Inc launched its thinnest laptop -- HP Spectre in India.

Touted as the world's thinnest notebook, HP Spectre is as thin as an AAA battery -- at just 10.4 mm and weighs 1.1 kg.

The device comes with sixth generation Intel Core i5 and i7 processors and is priced $1,249 internationally.

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: winblogs.azureedge)

Mumbai, Jun 22: Personal computer major HP Inc launched its thinnest laptop -- HP Spectre in India. The company has sent out media invite for the

ing food and agricultural produce worth Rs 92,000 crore and foreign funds can build infrastructure at farm gate level for benefit of farmers. As for grocery startups, the government's move comes with a catch since it allows FDI in only retailing of food products, while most grocery startups sell household items such soap and incense sticks apart from food. It remains to be seen whether they hive off a separate food business from their existing one, said industry experts.

"It is a possibility, although at present, food accounts for around 70% of our business," said Hari Menon, co-founderCEO, Bigbasket. "If we manage to separate our food business from the rest of our portfolio, it will allow us to raise funds easily from foreign players." (Agencies)

event that reads "come to experience the convergence of art with technology." Touted as the world's thinnest notebook, HP Spectre is as thin as an AAA battery -

The device packs in full HD 13.3-inch diagonal edge-to-edge display and a fast PCIe solid-state drive (SSD) with storage up to 512GB and with up to 8GB of RAM. It has an innovative hybrid battery split into two thinner pieces that delivers the same charge as a single battery for up to nine and a half hours of battery life.

- at just 10.4 mm and weighs 1.1 kg. The device comes with sixth generation Intel Core i5 and i7 processors and is priced $1,249 internationally. The device packs in full HD 13.3inch diagonal edge-toedge display and a fast PCIe solid-state drive (SSD) with storage up to 512GB and with up to 8GB of RAM. It has an innovative hybrid battery split into two thinner pieces that delivers the same charge as a single battery for up to nine and a half hours of battery life. (Agencies)

nados of the country.

"Launch of movie tickets on Paytm is in line with our overall strategy of bringing more and more payment use cases online. When it comes to entertainment, it goes without saying that online movie ticketing wins the race. With INOX's strong presence across the country, we aim to offer multiple alternatives to our cinema lovers. At Paytm, we are committed to bring to our consumers their most cherished moments with utmost convenience," said Vice President Paytm, Renu Satti.

PAGE 10

Gulf carriers may soon fly high in open Indian skies

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: dilmun-times) Pune, Jun 22: India will now allow its airlines to be fully owned by foreign entities. While foreign carriers will still not be allowed to have more than 49% stake in airlines here, they can now get a foreign partner like a sovereign wealth fund or an institutional investor - and not look for an Indian partner to put in the remaining 51%. The Narendra Modi government allowed 100% FDI in domestic airlines and opened India - the fastest growing aviation market globally - to cashrich foreign airlines.

It provides private Indian airlines a significant upside in valuation if they wish to raise funds by opting for partial or complete divestment. Mega Gulf carriers Emirates, Qatar Airways and Etihaad - could be among the first to make use of the 100% FDI that is now allowed in Indian carriers.

While Qatar Airways has long expressed interest in buying a stake in Indigo, Emirates had earlier declined Jet promoter Naresh Goyal's offer to pick up a stake in his airline as it wanted to pursue organic growth options. That may change now. In a statement issued after the FDI rule change, Emirates said: "Emirates is a supporter of the Indian government's 2020 targets of becoming the world's third largest aviation market and reaching 85

million international passengers a year... India is an extremely important market for Emirates... We continue to focus on our organic growth, and will partner with other airlines where it benefits our customers and makes commercial sense." A Qatar Airways spokesperson declined comment but the airline's interest in Indigo is well known. An Indian government statement regarding the new FDI rules said: "It has now been decided to raise this limit (FDI in Indian airlines that used to be 49%) to 100%, with FDI up to 49% permitted under automatic route and FDI beyond 49% through government approval.

For NRIs, 100% FDI will continue to be allowed under automatic route." The move comes within a week of the government allowing startup Indian airlines to fly abroad as soon as they have 20 planes in their fleet without waiting to complete five years of operations first.

At present, only three Indian carriers have investment by foreign airlines.

Abu Dhabi's Etihad has a 24% stake in Jet Airways.

Tata Group holds 51% stake in Vistara and AirAsia India each, with Singapore Airlines and AirAsia Berhad having the remaining 49% in them respectively. Experts said the move help attract investment. (Agencies)

Mahanagar IPO opens today; draws market attention ANI New Delhi, Jun 22: Mahanagar Gas (MGL) IPO, which opened for subscription recently and close three days later, is garnering the limelight of market analysts.

The second biggest CNG retailer in India aims to raise around Rs. 1040 crore through IPO. Promoted by state-run GAIL and British Gas Asia Pacific Holdings, the gas distributor firm has fixed price band of Rs. 380421 per share. British Gas and GAIL will sell up to 12,347,250 equity shares each in the IPO. According to ICICI direct.com, Mahanagar Gas presents an opportunity to have an exposure to the robust business model and growing city gas distribution (CGD) space. CNG and domestic PNG business verticals constitute 85.6 percent of

sales volumes for MGL. The brokerage firm believes the company's strong CGD network offers good demand potential due to lower CNG, residential PNG penetration and increased usage of gas for industrial volumes.

MGL has a city gas infrastructure network of 188 CNG filling stations with a compression capacity of 3.1 million kg/day in FY16, providing CNG to over 0.47 million vehicles. The company supplied PNG to nine lakh domestic customers, 2866 commercial and 60 industrial customers in FY16, through an integrated pipeline network of over 4686 km which includes 415 km of steel and 4231 of polyethylene pipeline. It has exclusive gas distribution rights in Mumbai till 2020, adjoining areas of Thane and Navi Mumbai till 2030 and Raigad district till 2040.

1.5-litre petrol engine might be achieved by Maruti Suzuki's S-Cross New Delhi, Jun 22: Maruti Suzuki is expected to launch a petrol version of S-Cross in India. Like Vitara Brezza, S-cross, is currently only available with 1.3 litre and 1.6 litre diesel engine options. S-Cross was launched in India in 2015 through Maruti Suzuki's premium Nexa dealership.

Industry reports said that Maruti Suzuki may soon launch a version with 1.5-litre petrol engine, though no word is

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: 460303951.r.worldcdn) out from the company on lakh and go up to 12.03 the same. Prices for the lakh (ex-showroom, S-Cross start at Rs 8.03 Delhi). (Agencies)

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DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, JUNE 23

PAGE 11

India Beat Zimbabwe By Three Runs, Win Series 2-1 to work a lot harder in the T20 series in comparison to three ODIs where they blanked Zimbabwe easily.

The home team made a confident start to the run chase, reaching 40 for one in the first six overs.

After the early departure of Chamu Chibhabha, the experienced duo of Vusi Sibanda (28) and Hamilton Masakadza (15) looked comfortable against the Indian pace attack.

Sibanda came out with an aggressive intent and put pressure on the bowlers especially Dhawal Kulkarni, who was hammered for three consecutive boundaries in his second over.

Sran, who ended with figures of 4/10 on his T20 debut on Monday, was not at his best today even though he provided the first breakthrough and held his nerve in the final over.

The hosts looked threatening with Sibanda in the middle but his and Masakadza's fall in quick succession turned the match in favour of India.

Masakadza was adjudged lbw after attempting a sweep off left-arm spin-

ner Axar Patel before Kulkarni trapped Sibanda in front of the stumps.

Peter Moor got into the act after Sibanda's dismissal, punishing a wayward Chahal for three sixes.

Chahal offered a couple of long hops and Moor was quick to deposit them into the stands over mid wicket.

The leggie finally removed Moor but the target was very much within reach as Zimbabwe needed 51 off the last 36 balls.

However, two tight overs by Jaspirt Bumrah and Patel made life tougher for the opposition, who had to depend on Malcolm Waller and Chigumbura.

Earlier, Jadhav struck his maiden Twenty20 International half-century as India overcame a poor start to post a competitive total.

India, batting first for the first time on the tour, had a tough time against the Zimbabwe bowlers on a pitch where scoring freely proved to be difficult, as it was the case earlier in the series.

It was a golden opportunity for the young batsmen to make an impact in a must-win match but some of them ended up squander-

`Free spirit` Maxwell's late flourish leaves Marsh `speechless`

Mitchell Marsh ANI Melbourne, June 22 : Australia all-rounder Mitchell Marsh has said he was left 'speechless' by Glenn Maxwell's quick-fire knock against the West Indies in Barbados, which fired the world champions into the Caribbean tri-series final.

Chasing a competitive target of 283, Australia relied on half-centuries from skipper Steve Smith (78) and Marsh (79 not out) before Maxwell smacked an unbeaten 46 off

mere 26 balls to help his side cruise to victory with eight balls to spare.

Maxwell, who was dropped from the previous two games on account of his poor form, ended his recent streak of low scores by bludgeoning West Indies bowlers for five fours and two sixes, including a switch hit off the bowling of Sunil Narine.

"I was literally speechless at the other end watching an innings like that," Marsh

was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au. "Maxi's obviously had a lot of doubts and hasn't been in the greatest of form, but an innings like that tonight really shows why he's one of the first picked in this side."

"He's just so dangerous and he can win us games like that in a few overs. I'm really wrapped for him.

Maxi's a free spirit, you've just got to let him go and do what he does. And when it comes off like that, it's unbelievable to watch," Marsh added.

Earlier, West Indies had posted 282 for eight after batting first, thanks to Marlon Samuels' first ever hundred (125) against Australia and a record-breaking partnership with Denesh Ramdin (91).

West Indies and South Africa will now meet in the last preliminary match on Friday with the winners to face Australia in Sunday's final.

Frustrated Ronaldo throws television reporter's mic into lake ANI London, June 22 : Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo, who is facing tremendous media pressure over his lack of form in the ongoing Euro 2016, vented his frustration at a television reporter by snatching the latter's microphone before throwing it into a lake.

The Real Madrid superstar appeared to reach boiling point when the reporter asked him if he was ready for their next game against Hungary, the Guardian reported.

Wednesday in order to secure their berth in the last16 round of the European Championship.

Cristiano Ronaldo Portugal, which played out two draws against Iceland and Austria, must defeat Hungary on

Rory McIlroy withdraws from Rio Olympics over Zika fears

Rory McIlroy

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ANI London, June.22 : Northern Irish golfer Rory McIlroy has confirmed that he will not be participating in the upcoming Rio Olympics due to widespread concerns related to the Zika fears.

The four-time major champion stated that he reached this conclusion after 'much thought and deliberation',

while adding that 'my health and my family's health comes before anything else', the Guardian reported.

The 27-year-old also expressed hope that the Irish people would understand his decision, insisting that he would 'continue to endeavour to make my fans and fans of golf proud'.

Brazil has been most affected by the mosquitoborne virus that has spread rapidly through Latin America and the Caribbean. It is known to cause the head-shrinking microcephaly and other birth defects.

With this decision, McIlroy joined a host of golfers to withdraw from this year's Olympics, which includes Adam Scott, Louis Oosthuizen, Charl Schwartzel, Marc Leishman and Vijay Singh.

Ronaldo has so far endured a difficult campaign in Euro 2016 with Portugal scoring only once from 18 shots on target in the competition.

He came under severe criticism for his comments about Iceland's 'small mentality' after their draw in the opening game. He also received online jibes after missing his penalty against Austria.

ing it.

Opener Lokesh Rahul was put under pressure in the very first over as pacer Tendai Chatara bowled a rare maiden in this format.

Rahul was tentative at the start but bounced back in Chatara's following over, smashing him for a straight six and a couple of fours.

Eventually, he did not last long and neither did his opening partner Mandeep Singh.

Mandeep, who scored 31 and 52 not out in the last two games, was the first one to go back. He tried to cut a short ball over cover but mistimed it to be caught just outside the circle.

Rahul too was out to a lose stroke as he tried to whack Neville Madziva over mid-wicket, only to play on to his stumps.

With Manish Pandey run out after a brilliant direct hit from Elton Chigumbura, India were struggling at 29 for three in six overs.

Jadhav and Ambati Rayudu (20) were left to do the repair job and they took the innings forward with a 49-run stand off as many balls.

Barring Jadhav, the Indian batsmen could not find the big hits that were needed in the middle overs.

Captain M S Dhoni, who failed to get his team over the line in opening T20, was bowled by Donald Tiripano after making 9 off 14 balls.

It was a rather unusual dismissal as Dhoni, clearing his front foot for a big one, got an inside edge on to his stumps and one of the flying bails sneaked into his helmet to hit him on the right eye.

Jadhav held his end to reach his maiden half century and his innings was laced with seven fours and a six.

Dhoni did not get going with the bat but added another feather to his illustrious cap when he walked out for the toss.

By playing this game, he equalled Ricky Ponting's record of captaining in 324 international matches to be at the top of the list alongside the Australian.

Dhoni, who was appointed captain in 2007, has led India in 60 Tests, 194 ODIs and 70 T20 Internationals.

PTI Thiruvananthapuram, Jun 22 : Hurt by allegations of corruption levelled against her by state Sports Minister E P Jayarajan, India's lone athletics World Championship medal winner Anju Bobby George on Wednesday resigned as President of the Kerala Sports Council.

Announcing her decision to quit, the celebrated longjumper said it was not proper to continue in the post after "allegations" and "misunderstandings" cropped up against her.

An emotional Anju also said, "anybody can kill sports but nobody can defeat a sports star".

Besides the iconic athlete, 13 other members of the council, including noted volleyball player Tom Jose, also resigned.

"It is not proper to continue even after hearing all these al-

Anju Bobby George legations. Me and my council members do not want to continue in the wake of such misunderstandings and allegations against us," Anju told a press meet here.

She declared the decision after an hour-long meeting at the Council headquarter here.

She said those who did not like her decision to form an ethics commission to expose

corruption and illegal dealings in the Council in the past were behind the cropping up of false allegations against her.

"I do not think the allegations had occurred due to any issue from the side of government or the Council. Those who fear the proposed ethics commission are the ones who are behind all this," she said without naming anybody.

"As a revenue official and an athlete, who participated in a number of international competitions, I could easily find out many malpractices in the Sports Council, when I took charge. I think the problems began there," she alleged.

"Even my e-mail ID was hacked. In such circumstances me and my council members decided to form an ethics commission to expose the corruption, harassment and other illegal dealings there," the 39-year-old said.

Starc to seek tips from Euro 2016: Del Bosque defends De Gea after Johnson for Sri Lanka tour Spain's 2-1 loss to Croatia

Vicente del Bosque ANI London, June.22 : Spain football manager Vicente del Bosque has come to the defence of David de Gea, insisting that the under-fire goalkeeper shouldn't be blamed for their side's 21 defeat at the hands of Croatia in their final Group D match of Euro 2016.

Spain, the two-time defending champions, squandered a one-goal lead as Alvaro Morata's early strike was overturned by goals from Croatia's Nikola Kalinic and Ivan Perisic at Stade de Bordeaux, Paris.

De Gea, who enjoyed a stellar season at Manchester United, conceded the only two Croatian shots on target and could have conceded another if Ivan Rakitic's

lob shot hadn't hit the crossbar.

"We can't blame him," said Del Bosque was quoted as saying by the Mirror. "The second was a counter-attack. The first one is close range.

We lost and as I always say: we have all lost. All of us. We are all to blame."

Spain also missed a chance to retake their one-goal lead when captain Sergio Ramos failed to convert a penalty kick in the second half.

The coach further admitted that 'this was not the path' they had envisaged as Spain face a daunting task against Italy in the round-of-16 clash at the Stade de France on Monday, knowing that they will meet world champions Germany and then France should they progress that far.

ANI Melbourne, June.22 : Australia pace spearhead Mitchell Starc has said he will seek tips from former and present bowlers in order to get an understanding of the subcontinent pitches before they head to Sri Lanka for a three-match Test series, starting July 26.

The 26-year-old, who has made 25 Test appearances, will be the most experienced fast bowler in the squad, which includes Josh Hazlewood, Jackson Bird and Nathan Coulter-Nile.

Despite having no experience of playing in the island nation outside the World Twenty20 in 2012, Starc will heavily rely on his own experience of playing two Tests in India.

"Guys like Peter Siddle and Mitch Johnson we can call on to pick their brains about subcontinent bowling as well," Starc was quoted as saying by news.com.au. "I'm sure the conditions will be pretty similar to something like India ... with how they rely on their spinners."

"We still definitely keep in contact with those boys and we

Mitchell Starc will for a long time, because we're pretty close mates," Starc said.

Starc admitted that he had already started preparing for the series by talking to fellow teammate and spin specialist Nathan Lyon, who made his Test debut in 2011 in Galle.

The left-hander, who returned from injury in the ongoing Caribbean tri-series, also underlined the significance of reverse-swing, saying that it would his key weapon for the

forthcoming tour.

"Reverse-swing is going to be a huge thing," he observed.

"I'm always going to try and reverse that ball after it stops swinging. It's something I pride myself on, working hard and making the most out of that old ball."

Australia, which became the number one Test side after defeating New Zealand 2-0 in February, will aim to retain their numero uno position after the series.

Record-breaking Messi leads Argentina into Copa America final

Argentina Football team ANI London, June.22 : Lionel Messi became Argentina's alltime top goal scorer as the twotime world champions ham-

mered past the United States 40 to progress through to the Copa America Centenario final at the NRG Stadium in Houston.

Ezequiel Lavezzi put Argentina ahead just three minutes into the game before Messi, the Barcelona talisman, doubled the lead with a stunning freekick in the 32nd minute of a completely one-sided match.

With that shot, Messi has overtaken Gabriel Batistuta's record of 54 goals for his country.

Subsequently, striker Gonzalo Higuain struck twice to complete a thumping win over the hosts, in which the USA failed to muster a shot in the match, on or off target, the Guardian reported.

Argentina, who are aiming to claim a first Copa title since 1993, will next face either defending champions Chile or Colombia in the final on Sunday.

Exceptional bowling performance made Zimbabwe tour look easy: Sanjay Bangar ANI Harare, June.22 : Showering praise on his inexperienced bowling line-up, interim India head coach Sanjay Bangar has said the Zimbabwe tour seemed like an easy series because of their nearly flawless performance which left the hosts defenceless.

A second-string Indian side, under the captaincy of Mahendra Singh Dhoni, had maintained a complete stronghold over Zimbabwe throughout the tour, claiming a 3-0 whitewash over the hosts in the preceding one-day international se-

ries.

Indian bowlers wreaked havoc on the Zimbabwe batsmen, bowling out the hosts for paltry scores of 168, 126 and 123 in a completely one-sided ODI series at the Harare Sports Club.

According to Bangar, both seamers and spinners showed great determination and character throughout the series, pointing out that they were able to maintain the pressure even on wickets which were not conducive to them.

"It wasn't an easy sort of a series. It seemed to be easy especially the ODI

Sanjay Bangar format because our bowlers bowled exceptionally well," Bangar said in an exclusive interview to ANI. "We

stressed on the need of bowling in right line and length, which are based on the conditions as how much swing and lateral

movement are available over there and that is where adjustments have to come in straightway as quickly as possible. I am delighted to see bowlers raising their bar."

Jasprit Bumrah has been the star of the bowling line-up, taking a total of 14 wickets at a staggering average of 8 and an equally impressive economy rate of 3.31.

Seamers Barinder Sran, Dhawal Kulkarni also displayed impressive efforts in the second T20, which helped the tourists storm back into the series with the former bag-

ging a four-wicket haul.

"We narrowly missed out on winning the first match (lost by two runs). But we fought back very well," said the 43-year-old. "I felt that we came back very strongly and that's what really matters after you get a result which doesn't go your way. I am really glad that boys came out and played quality cricket to equal the series."

As the T20 series locked at 1-1, the third and the deciding match at the same venue on Wednesday promises to be an exciting affair.

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Harare, June 22: India survived a mighty last-ball scare before clinching the T20 series 2-1 with a nervy three-run victory over a spirited Zimbabwe in the third and final Twenty20 International in Harare on Wednesday.

The series decider went right down to the last ball after Zimbabwe restricted India to 138 for six and got close to the target before ending at 135 for six. Earlier, Kedar Jadhav bailed India out of trouble with a timely 58 off 42 balls.

Zimbabwe, needing 21 runs off the final over, were in touching distance of a famous series win until Barinder Sran held his nerve for a dramatic finish to the game.

Elton Chigumbura (16) and Timycen Maruma (23 not out) almost pulled off the chase in the final over as Sran conceded a six off the first ball, followed by two fours including one on a no-ball.

A four was needed off the final ball but Chigumbura ended up hitting a low full straight into the hands of Yuzvendra Chahal at cover, triggering wild celebrations by the away side.

The second-string Indian team had

Hurt Anju Bobby George resigns as Kerala Sports Council Prez

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DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, JUNE 23

Page 12

FASCINATING FACTS

The Wedding of the Mouse There was a beautiful hermitage on the bank of river Ganges, where a group of hermits lived in peace. The hermits were disciples of a Guru Yadnyavalkya, who was always absorbed in meditation, and followed rigorous selfdiscipline.

One day, while he was bathing in the river, a hawk flew over with a mouse in its claws.

Suddenly, the mouse fell from the hawk's grip right into the hands of the Guru.

When the Guru noticed that the hawk was flying above, he knew he cannot leave the mouse alone, or he is to be caught again. He put the mouse on a leaf of a nearby Banyan tree, and took a second bath to purify himself.

He used his powers to transform the female mouse into a little girl, and took her to the hermitage. He said to his wife, "My dear, please accept her as our blessing, as we do not have a child of our own."

Thus, the girl started growing in the hermitage, under the care and supervision of the Guru himself. She learnt many sciences, and ways of life. Both the Guru and his wife were very proud of their special child.

One day, the Guru's wife brought into his notice that their girl had reached marriageable age. They decided to give it a serious thought, as she was a special child and deserved a special husband.

The next morning, using his powers, the Guru summoned

What is in-born, can never change. the Sun God to him, and said, "Please accept my daughter's hand. I wish you to marry her, if she chooses so." But the daughter said, "Father, the Sun God lights up the entire world, but he is unbearably hot and fiery-tempered. I do not wish to marry him. Please seek a better husband for me."

The Guru wondered, "Who might be better than even the Sun God?" The Sun God advised, "Guruji, you can seek the alliance of the King of Clouds. He is superior to me, for he can cover me and my light." So the Guru, using his powers, summoned the King of Clouds, and said, "Please accept my daughter's hand. I wish you to marry her, if she chooses so."

But the daughter said, "Fa-

LITTLE SCIENTIST Walking Water Science Experiment for Kids

Photo source: coffeecupsandcrayons What you need? " at least 3 empty glasses " water " food coloring " paper towels What to do? " Choose the colors you want to mix. " Fill a jar for each color and add food coloring. " Cut a paper towel in half and then fold it into quarters lengthwise. " Stick one end of the paper towel into the colored water and one end into the empty jar.

Readers can send articles, poems, sketches, stories, travel experiences, achievements etc to editor.easterntoday@gmail.com or can post to The Eastern Today. T.C Borah Building, First Floor, Near to Sankardeva Hospital, Mancotta Road, Chowkidingee. Dibrugarh, 786001 Assam.

ther, the King of Clouds is dark, wet and too cold. I do not wish to marry him. Please seek a better husband for me."

The Guru wondered, "Who might be better than even the King of Clouds?" The King of Clouds advised, "Guruji, you can seek the alliance of the Lord of Winds. He is superior to me, for he can blow me away." So the Guru, using his powers, summoned the Lord of Winds, and said, "Please accept my daughter's hand. I wish you to marry her, if she chooses so."

But the daughter said, "Father, the Lord of Winds is too fast and restless. He keeps changing his direction. I do not wish to marry him. Please seek a better husband for me."

The Guru wondered, "Who

might be better than even the Lord of Winds?" The Lord of Winds advised, "Guruji, you can seek the alliance of the Lord of Mountains. He is superior to me, for he can stop me from blowing."

So the Guru, using his powers, summoned the Lord of Mountains, and said, "Please accept my daughter's hand. I wish you to marry her, if she chooses so." But the daughter said, "Father, the Lord of Mountains is too hard and rigid. He is immovable. I do not wish to marry him. Please seek a better husband for me."

The Guru wondered, "Who might be better than even the Lord of Mountains?" The King of Mountains advised, "Guruji, you can seek the alliance of the King of Mice.

He is superior to me, for he can make holes all over me."

So the Guru, using his powers, summoned the King of Mice, and said, "Please accept my daughter's hand. I wish you to marry her, if she chooses so."

When the daughter met the King of Mice, she was delighted and shyly agreed to the marriage.

The Guru transformed her daughter to a beautiful female mouse, for her to perform all household duties of her clan. Thus, the Guru's daughter was married.

The wise indeed say: What is in-born, can never change.

Photo courtesy: media-cache

" A hard working adult sweats up to 4 gallons per day. Most of the sweat evaporates before a person realizes it's there, though! " A person will burn 7 percent more calories if they walk on hard dirt compared to pavement. " A sneeze can travel as fast as 100 miles per hour. " A toothbrush within 6 feet of a toilet can get airborne bacteria from flushing. " Before toilet paper was invented, French royalty wiped their bottoms

with fine linen. " Alfred Hitchcock didn't have a belly button. " Betsy Ross was born with a fully formed set of teeth. " Bill Gates designed a traffic control system for Seattle when he was only 15! " Coconuts kill more people in the world than sharks do. Approximately 150 people are killed each year by coconuts. " During your lifetime, you'll eat about 60,000 pounds of food, that's the weight of about 6 elephants.

CRAFTY CRAFTS Beaded Safety Pin Bracelets What you need? " A bowl " Buttons " Glue How to do? " Take the buttons one by one " Glue it " Paste it on the bowl " Use different colors of buttons Once the glue has dried and has become transparent, your new button bowl is ready and can be used to hold whatever you like; keys, money, fruit, etc.!!!

Photo source: uccdn

WHAT AM I ???

LAUGH OUT LOUD Once, Santa kept having the same weird dream every night, so he went to a doctor.

Doctor: What was your dream about?

Santa: I was being chased by a vampire!

Doctor: (giggles) so... what is the scenery like?

Santa: I was running in a hall way.

Doctor: Then what happened?

Santa: Well that's the

weird thing. In every single dream, the same thing happened. I always come to this door, but I can't open it. I keep pushing the door and pushing the door, but it wouldn't budge!

Doctor: Does the door have any letters on it?

Santa: Yes it did.

Doctor: And what did this letter spell?

Santa: It said "PULL" Courtesy: santabantajokes

Courtesy: azcoloring

FIND YOUR PATH

RIDDLES Question) A boy and an engineer were fishing. The boy is the son of the engineer but engineer is the father of the boy. Then who is the engineer?

Answer: Engineer is the boy's mother.

Question) Everyone in the world needs it. They generously give it. But never take it. Then what is it?

Answer: Advice Question) It is your possession and belongs to you.

However, you use it very rarely. What is that?

Answer: Your name.

Question) You always make a more of them, but leave more of them behind you.

The more you do, the more you leave behind. Tell what is it?

Answer: FOOT STEPS

Courtesy: leapfrog

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