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PAGE 10 HARRY POTTER WASN’T MADE FOR CLASSROOMS

AJYCP stages a sit-in strike demanding autonomy to Assam, dual citizenship Pathsala : Assam Jatiyatabadi Yuva Satra Parisad (AJYCP) observed a sit-in strike today at Pathsala in front of their office as per AJYCP's resolution to demonstrate 2 hour sit-in-strike throughout the state from 1st January 2016 to 31st Dec 2016.

P4 Notorious criminal Bubu Konwar apprehended with a stolen Tata Sumo in AssamNagaland border Bokajan: A dreaded criminal has been arrested by a join team of Assam and Nagaland police along the interstate border here on Sunday.

The arrested has been identified as Bubu Konwar, a resident of Ratanpuria Gaon under Amguri police station in Sivasagar district.As reported, a join team of Khatkhati and Pulibor police thwarted a bid to smuggle a stolen Tata Sumo car lifted from Pulibor, Jorhat.

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Donald Trump slams recount move as ‘a scam’, says election is over

Vol. II

Issue 131

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Dibrugarh, Monday, November 28, 2016

Can India really become a cashless society?

Price -

Following the stupendous victory of former Arunachal Pradesh CM Kalikho Pul’s wife, Dasanglu Pul has vowed to complete all the on-going projects and all unfinished task. In an exclusive interview with ET correspondent, Pul said that she is determined to fulfil the most cherished dream of her late husband which is “to transform Anjaw district into a high performing developed district of the state ”. “I must strive hard to follow the footprint of my beloved husband. The task is challenging though. The public of Hayuliang Constituency has reposed faith on me. I will leave no stone unturned to maintain the same pace of growth,” she promised. Her first priority would be to make newly build District Hospital at Swami Camp functional.

When asked about her past memory and working experience with the most seasoned politician Kalikho Pul, she responded positively and said, “ I have learned a lot

Recently elected MLA from Huyuliang, Dasanglu Pul from my late husband and my experiences with him have been a learning curve and this will help me to put things into right perspective and I am looking forward to integrate all my experiences into practice and in this endeavour I will work closely with officials,

PRI member, and general voters and also take them together to bring development at grass root level”. “The Khandu government is giving full backup to usher us in all fronts in order to steer the frontier district in new height of development. The NEDA

(North – East Development Alliance) sympathy including all senior BJP and PPA leaders have been encouraging always, “she further added. Born in the year 1977 at interior Sarli village under Walong circle, Dasanglu Pul is the only daughter of poor farmer Late T Tulang. She has four brothers. Pul said she has seen poverty closely and always oblige to help out the downtrodden.

Meanwhile, citing the Bye – Election as a learning curve experience and equally hardhitting, she heartily extended deep gratitude to Pema Khandu CM and his Ministry, Dr. Mohesh Chai MLA Tezu and his entire team, State’s BJP-PPA leaders, District BJP party workers, PRI leaders, DC Anjaw, Observer, Election Officials, voters of Hayuliang Constituency, well-wishers.

The BJP-PPA has accorded red carpet welcome to Dasanglu Pul at Itanagar after winning the 45th Hayuliang (ST) Constituency Bye – election by defeating her rival Yampi Kri, independent candidate by a margin of 942 votes.

Pages- 12

Ashok : 9706289816

5 Speaking Rules you need to know!

P6

Dasanglu Pul vows to fulfill all unfinished projects Bishnu Rana Tezu, Nov 27

5.00

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CM Sonowal called for restoring bio-diversity in Northeast Region A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Nov 27

Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal today called for intensive research in the field of Microbes and Biosphere for solving ecological problems and restoring bio-diversity in North Easter Region.

The Chief Minister said this while speaking in the Valedictory function of the 57th Annual Conference of Association of Microbiologists of India (AMI) and International Symposium on “Microbes and Biosphere: What’s new What’s next” at Gauhati University today. The Conference is jointly organized by the Gauhati University and the Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, Guwahati.

“As you know there are consistent challenges of food security, mitigating malnutrition, tackling environmental and health

problems on day to day basis being thrown upon before the managers of society and the government. Science and technology if used pragmatically and rationally can help us in tackling the problems we are facing today” Sonowal said.

Stating that human beings cannot survive without microorganisms, Sonowal further pointed out that they can be applied in different industries for environmental cleaning, for improving agriculture and making it sustainable and eco-friendly, developing drugs for the treatment of diseases etc.

The Chief Minister also drew attention of the scientists and researchers about many problems faced by the state including soil erosion, solid waste management and soil degradation etc. and urged them to develop technologies using microbial resources for tackling these problems.

Reiterating the potential and possibilities of the northeastern region to emerge as organic hub of the nation, Chief Minister Sonowal asserted the importance of improving infrastructure for scientific research and developing scientific temperament amongst young generation.

Around 1,000 participants from different parts of the country and foreign delegates took part in the Conference which was marked by 700 scientific presentations.

The Vice Chancellor of Gauhati University Dr. Mridul Hazarika, Vice Chancellor of Assam Down Town University Dr. R.C. Deka, National President and General Secretary of AMI, Chairman Organizing Committee Dr. N.C. Talukdar, General Secretary, Organizing Committee D.K. Jha were also present in the function among others.

Pasighat MLA, Jamoh inspects ongoing projects at Sika Tode, Lingka and Ruksin

Washington : US president-elect Donald Trump has termed the Green party-initiated move to recount votes in the state of Wisconsin as a “scam”, asserting that “the people have spoken and the election is over.”

The push to recount the votes was spearheaded

by Green Party presidential nominee Jill Stein, who is also seeking recounts in Michigan and Pennsylvania.

P10

Turkey says 22 Syria rebels hurt in IS chemical attack Istanbul : Twenty-two proAnkara Syrian rebels were hit by a chemical gas attack from Islamic State (IS) jihadists in northern Syria, the Turkish army said on Sunday.

“After a rocket was fired by IS, 22 opposition members were observed to have been exposed in their eyes and bodies to chemical gas,” the general staff said in a statement, quoted by the staterun Anadolu news agency.

P10

local MLA of 37th Pasighat (West) cum Parliamentary Secretary, Agriculture, Er. Tatung Jamoh inspected the road projects at Sika Tode-Sika Bamin, NH-52- IGC Niglok via Lingka Maksam Tayeng Pasighat, Nov 27 As a part of monitoring and to ensure quality work, the local MLA 37th Pasighat (West) cum Parliamentary Secretary, Agriculture, Er. Tatung Jamoh inspected the road projects at Sika Tode-Sika Bamin, NH-52- IGC Niglok via Lingka Village and a Guest House at Ruksin on Saturday.

While visiting the road project sites at Sika Tode, Sika Bamin and Lingka village,

Jamoh closely checked the ongoing works and appealed the concern department and contractors to ensure quality work with completion of the work within time frame. He also met the contractors and other laborers at Lingka village and directed the workers to use thicker bitumen on the road surface after seeing poorly used of bitumen. Jamoh also inspected the project site of Guest House construction at Ruksin near ADC office and directed the engineers to use proper drainage also so that no rainwater stagnation takes

place during rainy days.

Local MLA was accompanied by Executive Engineer, PWD Er. Tameng Jamoh, AE, RWD, Er. Karsing Moyong along with public leaders. The road construction at Sika Tode-Sika Bamin is sanctioned funds from RE 2016, Rs. 1.5 crore, NH-52 to IGC Niglok from TFC-2015, Rs. 2 crores and Guest House, Ruksin are from SPA 2014-15, Rs. 2 crore, informed EE, PWD, Er. Tameng Jamoh who is also trying to ensure quality work.

Sikkim schools lead the way for sustainable development

cmyk

One of the major issues concerning humans today is protection of the environment.

Two schools in Sikkim are leading the way by incorporating environmental activities in their curriculum with the aim of educating students about the need to protect and conserve nature for better sustainability.

Sikkim’s Chief Minister Pawan Chamling has repeatedly stressed on the need to protect and conserve nature for better sustainability, and various schools are now taking up environmental activities.

The Bongten Government School has undertaken several green initiatives to maintain balanced ecology and biodiversity.

The school was conferred with two awards—

Sustainability and Biodiversity

by WIPRO at Bangalore in February and TN Khoshoo Earthian award 2015.

Apart from the daily curriculum, sanitation programmes and other initiatives are being implemented in schools to create awareness among students.

The schools also carry out comprehensive evaluation to monitor the progress of such

programmes in schools.

“This is the first time that CCTV cameras have been installed in a government school in Sikkim. We have received the State Green School Award and several awards which are really appreciable. The school also provides mid-day meals to the students,” said N.K Karki, Principal of Bongten School.

Contd. on Page 3

cmyk

ANI Gangtok, Nov. 27

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 28

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Congress’ ship sinks as saffron party on a roll in the North East Region ET Bureau Guwahati, 27 Nov: As the BJP makes giant strides; the Congress is losing ground in the Northeast, its erstwhile stronghold. The Congress lost Assam miserably, is virtually non-existent in Nagaland, was booted out by its own people in Arunachal Pradesh, is facing dissidence in Manipur and Meghalaya, and has lost the ground to the BJP even in giving a fight to the CPI (M) in Left-ruled Tripura in the by-elections.

The grand old party is facing a bleak future in a region it claimed to be its

own. The only state in the Northeast where the Congress sits pretty is Mizoram. The BJP, on the other hand, has shown how resurgent it is by winning Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland, albeit by aligning with regional parties and changing the discourse of politics in the region.

That the Congress is a sinking ship in the Northeast was re-established in the by-elections to five constituencies, in which the party drew a blank.

The BJP, which won three of the five seats and came a close second in another, is on a roll. Ar-

HOROSCOPE Aries

Taurus

Gemini

Cancer

Leo

Virgo

Libra

You might feel like you're getting worked up from all angles today, Aries. Find comfort in knowing that things will definitely improve by tomorrow. You might get the feeling that somehow you're all alone despite the circle of friends that surrounds and loves you. You may be called to action by a strong force. Try to stay abreast of information and developments around you so you can make the most informed decisions possible.

rogance, corruption and lack of development are being cited by opposition parties for the Congress’s downfall.

Nagaland House, the Congress does not have a single representative as eight of its MLAs defected.

“The Congress is to be blamed for its depleting popularity. Despite ruling for years, the Northeast lags in development.

Money that used to come from the Centre was siphoned off. People are aware of India’s growth in the mainland. They want development, and are rejecting the Congress. The Congress in Nagaland is virtually finished,” Nagaland BJP senior vice-president James Vizo said.

In the 60-member

A senior BJP leader, said the PM was the reason for BJP’s sterling growth in the region. “People believe Modiji can deliver, and hence they are shifting their allegiance to the BJP. People have seen the party for 70 years, it lacks dynamic leadership. In contrast, we have a young, energetic and resulted-oriented leadership,” he said.

The Congress admits it is down but not out. “Due to perfect campaign strat-

egies, the BJP encroached upon our turf.

People are losing faith in us but we will recover by reading the situation,” Assam Congress spokesperson Apurba Bhattacharya said.

The Congress is being plagued by infighting. In Tripura, its tally of 10 in the 60-member House plummeted to three after six MLAs defected. In Manipur, three MLAs ditched the party to be with the BJP. The party’s challenge is next year’s Assembly polls in Manipur, where the BJP is growing fast. The Congress’ fate will depend on Manipur’s poll outcome.

Shabda releases seven books in Jorhat

Peace and harmony are in the regularly scheduled program for the day, but there is a good chance that there could be a warring force with strong opinions and vindictive tendencies.

Hold onto your hat, Virgo, and make sure you have your actions well aligned with your soul or else you could be thrown into a battle that has nothing to do with you.

I told you so might be your motto of the day. Try not to rub this in other people's faces, Libra. Indeed, you have the foresight to witness an action and see the consequences right away. These consequences might rear their ugly heads on a day like this. Use your incredible perception and intuition to hone in on the best solution possible and work toward that goal before things get out of hand.

Scorpio

Your opinions might be the topic of conversation all day, Scorpio. You have a very strong will and you aren't afraid to express it. Today you will get that chance. Feel free to enlighten others with your tremendous wealth of knowledge. Take control of the conversation and accept the mental challenge of trying to win other people over to your side. Whether you're successful or not, you will have fun trying.

Sagittarius

Make sure your opinion doesn't get lost in the frenzy of the day, Sagittarius. Your words may not quite fit with the things that people want to hear. Try not to take this personally. Realize that this isn't an indication that your words are any less important. You have an incredible gift of being able to see things that others can't. Cherish and nourish this ability instead of invalidating it.

Capricorn

You have two choices today. Either jump into the thick of the mess with both feet or stay out of it altogether.

at Tuensung, Nagaland in a joint operation by Assam Rifles and Police yesterday. Morigaon SP Swapnanil Deka told this correspondent that ex-

tremist group of Central Assam was planning their extremist activites in Nagaland. The interrogation of the terrorist is going at Morigaon.

Corporates in Guwahati come to help people waiting in long queues GUWAHATI: At a time when long queues are seen outside every ATM delivering cash and bank branches in the city, some organisations in Guwahati are pulling out their Spartan best as they try to get involved with the people awaiting for withdrawal of cash.

jective of helping the bankers and the common people deal with the ordeal brought by the sudden change in our system. This is just a small step by us to ease people in distress,” said spokesperson at Karini Group of Restaurants who run Yo! China and Pizza Hut in the city.

In the last two weeks, various organisations are seen helping common people cope with demonetization in every possible way.

Yo! China distributed 120 vegetarian Yo! Boxes and 200 water bottles at ICICI Bank ATM in Bhangagarh and State Bank of India ATMs in Bhangagarh and Bora Service.

Besides, in order to help bankers replenish their strength during the tough phase, Yo! China introduced special discount schemes where a banker gets a discount of Rs 101 on every bill of Rs 500 or above at the restaurant. “As all bankers are leaving no stone unturned, we want them to smile and that’s why we are giving them a small discount on their favorite Authentic Chinese restaurant,” read a Facebook post by the restaurant.

For Lachitnagar-based Yo! China, it was a challenge to help people wait in the queues as they support the government’s initiative to tackle black money. “As a responsible business, we reached out to some of the banks/ATMs with the ob-

Pizza Hut, located at Dona Planet, Bhangagarh, distributed 50 pizzas and cold drinks to the employees of Axis Bank at GS Road and people standing in queue at the State Bank of India ATM, Dispur.

On the other hand, Guwahati-based cement company Taj Cement installed water-booths outside several ATMs and bank branches in the city thereby helping the common people. (TNT)

ET Bureau Guwahati, 27 Nov: Guwahati, Assam's main city and the gateway to India's northeast, has the potential to become a major airline hub with support from the state government, says Ajay Singh, Chairman and Managing Director of budget carrier SpiceJet.

You might want to escape the frenzy of the day by going shopping, Gemini. Align yourself with partners and allies who share your views. Try to keep the disagreements to a minimum. There is enough tension and war raging in the world around you today that you don't need to add to the negative force by contributing disputes and ailments to the situation.

Today's arena is one in which you can find a great deal of material, Leo. There will be no shortage of energy to work with or opinions coming from you. Realize that your words have a greater potency about them as people become more intent on uncovering the truth.

Apply yourself to peace and cooperation among groups. Help people work together toward a common goal.

ET Correspondent Morigaon Nov 27: Sanjit Amsong alias Bidyut Amsong self styled Chairman of Tiwa Liberation Army (TLA) was arrested

Guwahati has potential to be major airline hub: SpiceJet chief

Try to rise above the potential tension and rough spots of the day, Taurus. Do yourself a favor and don't feel like you have to stoop to another's level. Take pride in your actions and do things with confidence. Work with the negativity. The worst thing to do would be to ignore it. Approach problems squarely as soon as they arise. Don't dredge up the past. It's time to move forward.

Emotionally, things might get rather tense for you as others tend to demonstrate a selfish attitude, Cancer. Selfishness doesn't always have to be considered a negative. Sometimes it's healthy and necessary to take a more self-centered stance.

You need to take care of yourself at all times. So don't try to pick a fight when other people also demonstrate this behavior.

TLA extremist arrested

Organisation ‘Sabda’ have released 7 books in a function here at Jorhat today.

Photo by Nekib Ahmed ET Correspondent Jorhat, Nov 27: Renowned book publishing house of Jorhat,Sabda, released seven books at Jorhat in a humble ceremony held at planetarium auditorium on Sunday. The books released were of writer Anjana Bora's 'Man Samudrar Joon'; Indrajit phukan's "Moinar Mahabharat" ; Deepika Baruah's 'Rupar Charai ' ; Padmaahree Prahlad Chandra Tasa's “Asomiya Sahityar Avakh" ; Sujata Gohain Baruah's "Buranjir Hun Heria Katha aru Anyanya";Anita

Baruah's "Suwanshiri Ajiu Boi Ase" and Neelakshi Chaliha Gogoi's "Niranjana Noir Joon.Renowned writer and lecturer of J.B. College Jyoti Rekha Hazarika, Former president of All Assam Kobi Sanmilan and retired lecturer of J. B. College Manik Saikia, Known as Mouchak Mama, children writer Santanu Tamuli, ex-president of Jorhat District Sahitya Sabha Indrajeet Baruah, writer Dr. Quttubuddin Ahmed, Khireshwar Konch along with writer Mamoni Gogoi Baruah was present in the

book inaugural function.

Inaugurating the book Moinar Mahabharata Dr. Qutubuddin Ahmed said in his speech "children always had attractions on Mahabharata". "It's quite difficult to bend history to literature "said Santanu Tamuli while reciting "Boranjir Hun heriya Katha aru ananya ".”Poetry is the feelings of heart" said Mani Saikia inaugurating the poetry book "Niranjana Noir Joon" written by Nilakshi Chaliha Gogoi.

Singh thinks Guwahati could also become a major airline cargo hub and generate hundreds of jobs due to its strategic location.

"The northeast can be made a cargo hubwhich will create hundreds of jobs if training institutes can be started with government support," Singh said at a seminar on 'Assam's Trilemma: Create jobs, Enhance skills, Promote entrepreneurship' here late on Saturday evening.

The seminar was organised

by Delhi Alumni Association, Assam, a group of people across professions hailing from the state who have studied in the national capital.

Singh stressed that jobs got created when GDP grew and connectivity was a major source of such growth. In this

respect, tourism had "absolutely beautiful potential" in the region, he said.

Stating that SpiceJet had a lot of employees from the northeast, he said people from the region were courteous and spoke well.

Though Guwahati is one of the busiest airports in the country, Singh is of the view that it is time to look at other airports in Assam such as Jorhat and Lakhimpur.

Speaking to IANS, he said his company was in talks with the Assam government to make Guwahati a hub for SpiceJet. He stressed two things: a hangar for his airline at the Lokapriya Gopinath Bordoloi (LGB) International Airport in Guwahati and lower sales tax on aviation fuel.

Singh said if SpiceJet got a hangar, it could keep planes there overnight. "We can have first flights out from Guwahati in the morning to major cities across India," he said.

Singh said the West Bengal government had been very

pro-active and cut sales tax on aviation fuel. This helped SpiceJet in making Kolkata a hub. "We have flights from Kolkata to Guwahati and Silchar and we are now looking at flights to Jorhat and Lakhimpur," he said.

Saying that Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal had a positive attitude towards business, Singh said if his government reduced sales tax on aviation fuel, SpiceJet could make Guwahati one of its hubs.

With the Centre's stress on 'Act East', connectivity to Southeast Asia would also increase. Though India was working on a trilateral highway connecting with Myanmar and Thailand, Singh felt such infrastructure projects took time to be completed.

But if Guwahatibecomes an airline hub, flights to Southeast Asia "can be made from tomorrow".

SpiceJet on Friday reported a rise of 103 per cent in net profit for the second quarter of 2016-17. The company's Q2 net profit stood at Rs 58.9 crore, up from Rs 29 crore in the corresponding quarter of 2015-16.

ASSAM STATE BODY BUILDING CHAMPIONSHIP

There are definitely two distinct camps setting up their arsenals for battle. Realize that there is also a soft, tender, harmonious aspect that just wants peace. It will be hard to ignore the fact that your usual warring nature is ready to do battle.

Aquarius

Pisces

You may end up being the peaceful savior that calms everyone down today, Aquarius. Use your artistic nature and love of beauty and harmony to inspire others to put away their differences and concentrate on the positive aspects. Generous acceptance of others is the only way to go, especially today, when people are riled up and ready to fight. Do your best to promote peace.

Your unique ability to communicate with many different groups and personalities will be extremely important today to maintaining a bridge between warring camps, Pisces. Keep things moving and try not to let the situation stagnate on any one issue. If the conversation turns to raging and ranting, it's in your best interests to stop it right away. Don't be afraid to step up and take a leadership role.

Sariful Alam Saikia from Nagaon emerged as the winner of Nabba Mr Assam while Queen Buragohain from Kamrup was declared as the Nabba Miss Assam. The body building championship was organised by 4th Nabba Mr. Assam organizing Committee at Sivasagar today.

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 28

P3

DC reviews academic performances of West Siang with principals, HM and BEOs Nellie Manpoong AALO, 27 NOV: In a meeting held with all principals, headmasters and BEOs of West Siang district under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Gamli Padu, academic performances and CBSE results of Class X to XII for the last three years (201316) were thoroughly discussed on November 26 last at the DC’s office. The performance and initiative of all schools were examined to bring about academic improvement and check falling academic trend, absenteeism among teachers, workload to teachers as per norms, strict admission norms, teachers and infrastructures shortages, opening of bank accounts and

Aadhar enrolments and working hours in schools.Exhorting principals, headmasters and BEOs to discharge their duties effectively, the DC said that it was time to do something concrete to contain the dwindling academic graph of the district in a cohesive manner by adopting all remedial measures.

He insisted on adhering to CBSE norms of taking proper classes so that syllabus of the year is completed on time and asked vice principals and headmasters also to take classes. Saying that the rationalization in transfer and posting of teachers is a dire need to overcome the existing imbalance and vacuum in the functioning

of many schools, the DC asked the DDSE to form a District Level Committee to look into this grey area. He also revealed that series of visits to schools gave an impression that most schools are functioning satisfactorily, while also admitting that there are many irregularities taking place for the past several years.

He cautioned all such schools to start with renewed spirit.Earlier, Aalo DDSE Tumto Lollen and BEO Kento Ngomdir highlighted the main objective behind the meeting and presented academic performances of all secondary and higher secondary schools of the district through power point presentation. Circle Officer (Admin) Oni Padun also highlighted on importance of Aadhar card and its enrolment. Many principals, headmasters and BEOs attributed poor performances and problems in schools to upgrade secondary and higher secondary schools without requisite subject teachers, teachers’ quarters, classrooms and other infrastructures to function effectively.

SHOOTING EXPOSURE

Minister of state for Home, Kiren Rijiju trying his hand on a sophisticated gun along with Top Gun Sharp Shooters at National Police Academy, Hyderabad on 3rd day of All India Annual Director Generals of Police Conference on Sunday.

Tagik terms No-Confidence Motion “unconstitutional and undemocratic” 3 unit barrack dept quarter Nellie Manpoong ITANAGAR, 27 NOV: Zilla Parishad Chairperson of Koloriang, Sangha Tagik has expressed shock over the reported No Confidence Motion issued by Kurung Kumey ADC cum Member Secretary Zilla Parishad, Yowa Topu against him and filed an FIR at Naharlagun Police Station to trace him out.

In his statement, Tagik informed that he was neither served a notice regarding the No Confidence Motion at his office, nor was he informed in any other form by the member secretary.

It is to be recalled that following the merger of four lNC ZPMs with PPA last

week, a “No Confidence Motion” has been moved against sitting Zilla Parishad Chairperson (ZPC) of Kurung-Kumey district Sangha Tagik.“This is a mockery of democracy.

How can a government official take such an unconstitutional and undemocratic move of No Confidence Motion without conducting a hearing?”

Tagik questioned.He informed that on November 15 last, a resignation letter from the primary membership of Indian National Congress (INC) was served to the District Congress Committee office by four Kurung Kumey Zilla Parishad Members with two-third

Sikkim schools lead the way for sustainable development Contd. from Page 1

The Government Senior Secondary School in Hee Yangthang, located 40 kilometers from the Geyzing town, has established itself as a renowned centre of education and ranks among the best schools in the entire western region.

Various activities have been undertaken by the school, including bee farming, gardening, small cattle farm, vegetable farm and others, with the aim to provide practical knowledge about different ways of farming.

The school was awarded the prestigious ‘Paryavaran Mitra Puraskar, 2015’ in an

Exemplar School category for its contributions to sustainable development.

The school has also been conferred with the ‘State Green Schools Award, 2015’.

“To manage these waste products, our children are engaged in various activities for better utilization. Nowadays people burn tyres and use it for camp fires, especially during New Year celebrations. So, this is very hazardous and injurious to health. It is damaging our biodiversity and environment. So, we are looking for ways to use waste products like tyres in making tables and chairs etc. It is durable also,” said N D Rai, Principal of Hee Yangthang School.

majority to merge with the People’s Party of Arunachal (PPA), but on November 17, the resignation letter was withdrawn and in the meantime a public notice was issued in connection to the hearing on the merger issue to the ZPMs of Kurung Kumey by the ADC cum member secretary Topu.Tagik pointed that the member secretary has no authorization to issue such a notice to hear the merger case of ZPMs in any political party.

The ZPC claimed that this was followed by a No Confidence Motion issued against him by the member secretary without citing any reason, and a forged appli-

cation was served, stating that the Zilla Parishad Members were pleading for a Zilla Chairperson ticket for someone else. “After discussion with the members, it was revealed that the members did not sign any application, which clearly indicates an ill drive against me”, Tagik added.Shocked to witness the No Confidence Motion notice issued in some local dailies on November 22 last, Tagik reiterated that he was not served a notice and even after inquiring about it, member secretary Topu has failed to furnish the documents of the No Confidence Motion, and has been missing from his office and resi-

dence.

gutted to ashes at Mebo

Accordingly, an FIR was filed against the ADC cum member secretary at Naharlagun Police Station on November 25 to trace him out. “I have the majority of Kurung Kumey ZPMs and if they will complaint against me I will resign from the post of Zilla Parishad Chairperson on my own, but I will not tolerate such an ill move by member secretary Yowa Topu”, Tagik said. A writ petition has also been served at Guwahati High Court, Itanagar bench against the member secretary and the hearing is scheduled to be held on Monday.

AAPGDA observes 17th foundation day Staff Repoter Pasighat, Nov 27: All Arunachal Pradesh Government Drivers’ Association (AAPGDA), East Siang Unit today observed its 17th foundation day at the General Hospital, Pasighat auditorium under the Chairmanship of Bomte Gara where all the driving communities serv-

ing under state government took active participation.

Gracing the occasion as Chief Guest, Ono Jamoh described the role played by the AAPGDA in upholding the rights of the drivers. He advised the members to be sincere in duties and dedicated for upliftment of the associa-

tion. General Secretary Tada Ringu informed that the association was formed to support government drivers morally in times of need. He also conveyed gratitude to the state government for implementation of enhanced grade-pay to boost the morale of the driving community.

Staff Reporter Pasighat, Nov 27: In a fire accident that broke out at around 11 PM on Saturday night at Romdum, Mebo town, a 3 unit department quarter barrack was gutted to ashes engulfing all the belongings leaving 3 families to miseries who were later accommodated temporarily at Inspection Bunglow by Mebo Sub-Divisional adsioner for declaring the ministration. bandh call proposed by Arunachal Youth Organi- While briefing about the zation as illegal and said fire accident, ADC that bandh culture not Mebo, Yemling Tayeng only hampers the state said that, 3 unit barrack government but also the of government quarter public. was gutted completely

Itanagar Market Welfare Association defies bandh, asks to keep business day as usual Nellie N Manpoong ITANAGAR, 27 NOV: In the wake of 12 hours bandh call called by the A r u n a c h a l YouthOrganization(AYO) on Nov 28, Itanagar Market Welfare Associa-

tion president, Yumlam Achung has appealed to the business establishments and market committees to keep their shops open on November 28. He lauded the order of the deputy commis-

and cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained.

However, no causality took place, but the personal belongings of the 3 families were completely gutted down and nothing could be saved owing to breaking out of fire at wee hours, added Tayeng while distributing immediate relief of Rs. 4000 each to the victim families. Along with ADC Mebo, ZPM Mebo Banggo, Oling Perme and Mebo Romdum Welfare Society, President, Gekong Pertin also took stock of the situation. After deep observation, ZPM Oling Perme appealed the

state government to sanction a fire brigade sub-station at Mebo, as the fire tenders from Pasighat takes time to reach Mebo. Perme said that, the fire tender which reached Mebo from Pasighat took several time and to fight off such fire accidents, a fire brigade has to be allotted here at Mebo.

Meanwhile, ADC Mebo Yemling Tayeng and ZPM Mebo Banggo, Oling Perme has appealed the common denizen to maintain cautiousness while dealing with fire related activities like lighting lamp, candle and electric wiring etc.

A perspective how ‘Hindi’ developed eventually in Arunachal Pradesh Tej Narayan Sharma who knew Manipuri. Some- his duty place - Khonsa ancestral tradition.

I can vividly recall a moment when a friend of mine strolling pillar to post on a busy market day in Manipur. He had asked, “ishka kimat kitna hain?" in Hindi. The Shopkeeper instead of telling the cost price said -" Hindi Khondrey" and there was no further response from the shopkeeper. Shopkeeper then sat just like a dumb creature. That day, my friend had returned back to his room without any shopping. Later on, he came to know that the shopkeeper meant that “he didn’t know Hindi”. As long as my friend was in Manipur, many a time he had to converse in coded language with the Shopkeepers to buy his household stuffs. Sometimes, he used to get help from others and colleagues

how, his ordeal was over in Manipur when he got transferred to Arunachal Pradesh. Before he went to Arunachal Pradesh, he had the same impression that he may face language barrier as he had experienced in Manipur.

When he went to Arunachal Pradesh to his utter delight he was very much at home unlike Manipur as Arunachalees speak Hindi. In fact, they speak Hindi very fluently.

Arunachalees not only speak plain Hindi but also use Hindi slangs and proverb in between the conversation. Each and every members of the family speak Hindi as good as the members of a UP and Bihar family speaks. He found them as if they were born and brought up in a Hindu family. The day he reached

(Tirap district) in Arunachal, the district was celebrating its local festival -CHALO- LOKU. This is the main festival of Nocte tribe. The programmes of the festival were conducted Hindi. Songs like : Chodo kalki Baate Kalki Baat Purane,Nayi Khun hain Nahi umang hain ham hain Hindustani.......,khal sapha tum kya jano..,Chadni ka chaad ho.....etc Speech like :Agar hum logo ko desh ki raksha ke khatir apna jaan gawana ho to ham gawainge. Jokes and sayeri delivered were too in Hindi.

The Chief Minister Pema Khandu and his PHD Minister's speech were too in Hindi. It seems to me that if the trend continues the local language may get eliminated out. However the CM in his speech said to maintain and continue the

PATRIOTISM: One of the most beautiful things we found in the people of Arunachal is patriotism. I hope many of you must have observed this character in Arunachalees but my experience is real and genuine. Each and every house hoist National Flag (Tri colour) during the National Festival like- India Independence Day(15 Aug),Republic day ,Gandhi Jayanti and soon. They celebrate these festivals wholeheartedly as a true Hindustani. A FRIEND OF MINE SAID, “If there is any true Indians we found in India is we found in the people of Arunachal. He further added if he had not been transferred to this place and posted to some other place other than Arunachal than he would have missed to meet the real

or true Hindustani in his life."

He was so curious to know that why Aunachalees were at home and able to express in Hindi with so ease and grace. I did bit of research and zeroed down to some findings. This goes to the beginning when the region (Arunachal) was known as NEFA (North Eastern Frontier Area) and was renamed as Arunachal Pradesh on 20th Jan 197 and became a Union territory. Arunachal became a State on 20th Feb1987.

When the State was as Union Territory, it was directly under the Central Government. The working/ official staffs were from Northern India. All the policies and the Standing orders were framed according to the need and aspiration of the Official Staff. The Staff implemented that all the

educational institutions i.e Schools were brought under the CBSE Curriculum and Colleges were affiliated to the Central University.

This was the turning point for the new generation to learn, to write and to speak in Hindi language fluently.

The indigenous people who joined Service started speaking in Hindi. Many others who wanted to join service were also compelled to learn Hindi. Secondly, the State's first sustained exposure to Hindi came during the 1962 Indo China War. Indian soldiers, most of them from the Hindi belt, enlisted locals to carry food and ammunition for them.

The porters’ use of Hindi slowly spread to their families and neighbours. Many of us believed that after Chinese aggression in 1962 and 1965 the indigenous people got afraid and ac-

cepted India as their Motherland.

Thirdly, the Arunachal Pradesh as a whole do not have common scripts of their own in English dialects as found in Mizo or Khasi or in Manipuri etc. It is not as if Arunachal Pradesh is short of languages of its own. The people speak 30 languages which is highest number of regional languages in the Indian Subcontinent. Each of the tribal groups in the State has its own language, so Hindi has emerged as the Link language. Also many of these languages are incomprehensible to members of other linguistic group, so Hindi has emerged as a Lingua franca.

Moreover, due to effect of Hindi as a medium of Schooling in Colleges, the new generation watches Hindi movies, Hindi Serial

and like and sing Hindi Song. This change in activity among the youth has popularized the language in the State. Next is that, Arunachal is the only State outside country's Hindi Heartland to use the language in the assembly .The debates in the State assembly also takes place in Hindi. The next observation is that of a commonality factor. From the scientific point of view, we know the sun is the ultimate source of all types of energy which we use today. Probably due to this fact a large number of people living in Hindi belt pray sun as "CHHAT PUJA". It seems that the native populations are parallel to this Hindi belt and pray Sun- Moon and chant Hindi Hymns. This religion has induced them to be content with the Hindi Language.

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 28

KAAC election likely on Dec. 2016 Sushanta Roy Diphu November 27: A reliable source of State Election Commission, Assam yesterday has indicated that the election for the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council will be conducted on the last week of December 2016. It may be mention here that the tenure of the present 30 member KAAC committee (4 nominated and 26 elected) expires in December and the new body will have to be installed in the office within 1st week of January 2017.

The source has also informed that the SEC will soon issue notification stating the schedule of the whole electioneering process

NAAC team to visit Bajali College Sasanka Talukdar Bajali, Nov 27: NAAC team comprising Dr. Prithvish Nag, Vice Chancellor of Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Viidapith, UP, Dr KN Guruprasad, Professor, School of life sciences.

DAVV, Indore, Dr. Raghunath Madhab Missal, Principal Waghire college of Arts, Commerce and science, Pune will be visiting the Bajali college from November 28 to 30 to acquaint themselves with the strengths and weaknesses of the instruction with reference to quality assurance. The college is all set to welcome the team.

This was stated in a press release issued by Dr Manoj kumar Mahanta, Principal of the Bajali College. The visit will be validated by the self-study report submitted by the college.

Silchar Police apprehends 2 wanted criminals ET Bureau Silchar, 27 Nov: Silchar Police on Saturday arrested two dreaded criminals and recovered a number of arms and fake currency notes from them.

SP (Cachar) Rakesh Raushan said police raided their house at Saidpur village in Cachar district and arrested Akhtar Hussain Barbhuiya (32) and Azad Hussain Barbhuiya (30), recovering a factorymade pistol, two hand-made pistols, a rifle and fake Rs 500 notes. The SP said they were wanted for their involvement with an inter-state gang of car lifters, killing of drivers and kidnapping.

P4 AJYCP stages a sit-in strike demanding autonomy to Assam, dual citizenship

Sasanka Talukdar, Pathsala, Nov 27: Assam Jatiyatabadi Yuva Satra Parisad (AJYCP) observed a sitin strike today at Pathsala in front of their office as per AJYCP's resolution to demonstrate 2 hour sit-in-strike throughout the state from 1st January 2016 to 31st Dec 2016.

state. Led by Bajali Zila Samiti, Joint Secretary Kangkan Talukdar and Organising SecretaryKalyan Kalita,the two hour sit in strike was observed in Pathsala from 11am to 1pm.

In the programme leaderSurajit choudhury, Pradipta Talukdar along with Pranjit Rava, Manash Choudhury, Kumud Gayari, Bhargab Roy, Pijush Das, Bapan Talukdar, Upam das, Ganesh Boro,Partha Das many other were present.

Their demand is to provide complete autonomy to Assam, dual citizenship and Inner Line Permit for the non-indigenous people of the

Organization demands reimbursement of fee Sushanta Roy Diphu, Nov 27: The All India Karbi Students Union (AIKSU) has appealed all the government, provincialized and recognized venture school of the district to return the surfeit money they took from the students during filling-up of ensuing HSLC examina-

tion from, practical examination fees and center fee.

The demand has been made after the SEBA Secretary Kamal Jyoti Gogoi passed the order No. SEBA/EX/ HOLD/16/2016-17/37 dated 20th Oct 2016 step 9(A), mentioning that the Examination fees including Admit Card, Mark sheet &

Rupjyoti Mahanta Bokajan, Nov 27: A dreaded criminal has been arrested by a join team of Assam and Nagaland police along the interstate border here on Sunday. The arrested has been identified as Bubu Konwar, a resident of Ratanpuria Gaon under Amguri police station in Sivasagar district.As reported, a join team of Khatkhati and Pulibor police thwarted a bid to smuggle a stolen Tata Sumo car lifted from Pulibor, Jorhat. The car was fitted with a GPS device which enabled the police team to track it down with little effort. A hand grenade and a 7.65mm Pistol was recovered from the arrested.It needs to be mentioned that arrested Bubu Konwar is a dreaded criminal believed to have been involved in

2008. Bubu was the prime accused in the murder of Dhiraj Talukdar, a driver from the Noonmati area of Guwahati city.

over 40 murder cases including the murder of the

ET Bureau Guwahati, 27 Nov: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has exempted students of Assam and Meghalaya from having to enter their Aadhaar details while applying for the Joint Entrance Examination (Main).

"The Aadhar card issue was

popular Congress leader Hemanta Baruah in July,

raised before CBSE's JEE (Main) unit. It was impossible for engineering aspirants from the two northeastern states to furnish their Aadhaar details as the process of distributing the identification cards is yet to begin here," a source in CBSE told TOI on Saturday.

Residents of Assam are likely to get their Aadhaar cards after the National Register of Citizens (NRC) is updated. Meghalaya, on

the other hand, has been lagging behind in Aadhaar enrolment.

"Applicants who have passed or will appear in the Class XII examination from the states of J&K, Assam and Meghalaya can enter their passport, ration card or bank account details instead of Aadhaar.

They can also enter any other valid government identity number as long as they take the test within the state," read the notice.

He was later arrested by the city police from the Latasil area while attempting to deliver a 7.65 MM Pistol with 7 live ammunition. He also served a term in Sivasagar jail for the murder of a Jorhat based businessman Kailash Agarwall Ginoria back in 2012 and many more.Bubu konwar is also held as a contract killer and was involved in the murder of Dijendra Nath Gogoi, the headmaster of Namuna Bagan Lower Primary School, Jorhat on October 20, 2014. Bubu operates from Nagaland and is believed to be assisted by the NSCN in cross border operations.

NRCP to provide platform to establish strong pig value chain

ET Bureau Guwahati, 27 Nov: After having successfully launched two improved cross-bred varieties of pigs recently, the National Research Centre on Pig (NRCP) here wants to provide a platform to stakeholders in the piggery sector to establish a strong and functional pig value chain.

Students from Jammu & Kashmir have also been exempted from the Aadhaar rule.

The application process for the exam will begin on December 1 and conclude on January 2, 2017. The exam will be held in April 2.

ernment Provincialized or Recognized Venture Schools Will be exempted from the above mentioned fees if their parents' annual income is below Rs. 1 lakh as per the Govt. of Assam, Secondary Education Department vide letter no.

PMA (S). 184/2016/9 date 3/11/16.

Notorious criminal Bubu Konwar apprehended with a stolen Tata Sumo in Assam-Nagaland border

Aadhaar exemption for JEE candidates from Assam, Meghalaya

The CBSE had earlier announced that students would have to furnish their Aadhaar details while applying for the all-India engineering entrance exam.

This had led to confusion among students in the two northeastern states as Aadhaar enrolment is yet to begin here.

Pass Certificate (excluding the blind candidates in Rs. 480, Practical Examination fees (for subject having practical examination) is Rs. 100 and an amount of Rs. 250 to be paid for Centre Fee. The notification also stated that students who will appear HSLC examination from any Gov-

The NRCP's Pig Expo 2016, to be held on Monday and Tuesday, will not only bring together all stakeholders in the piggery sector under one platform, it will help them gather information on how to scientifically improve the sector.

Pig farmers, researchers, academicians, development agencies, entrepreneurs, processors and consumers from the northeast, as well as other parts of the country, will take part in the

event to jointly strengthen the pig value chain, the organizers said.

Haflong to host ‘Judima’, a festival on sports, culture PTI Haflong, 27 Nov: Assam's picturesque hill station Haflong will host the three-day 'Judima Festival' next month when tourists can indulge in a number of adventure sports like trekking, hiking, angling and satiate their taste buds by gulping one of the best traditional brews of the region.

The theme of the festival, to be held on December 18-20, will be centered on preservation, promotion and nurturing of ethnic culture, music, dance, craft and folk-art of Dimasa tribals living in Dima Hasao district of the state.

Cycling, hiking, angling, local sight-seeing, heritage walk and night trekking for an ultimate trekking experience that ends

with a breathtaking sight of sunrise along the Barail hills are part of the initiative which is being undertaken to promote tourism, the organisers said.

contest and a rejuvenation session for both mind and body through 'GuidedMeditation' (with instrumental music) for the visiting tourists.

The festival has been named after the Dimasa traditional brew - Judima, which is one of the best brews in the region.

While Guwahati-based band 'Spreading Roots' will perform in the final night, Bollywood singer Papon is expected to be the show-stopper.

The first edition of the festival held in January 2016 saw the conglomeration of cultures from different ethnicities which helped in further strengthening the harmony among various tribes residing in the hill district.

The name has been chosen due to its uniqueness in taste, methods of preparation and integral part it occupies in every aspect of Dimasa social and cultural life.

The festival is not only a symbolic celebration of the rich Dimasa drinks but also to initiate the idea of an alternative means of livelihood to the local brewers, they said.

There will be rock-music

The festival also seeks to establish Haflong, the only hill station of Assam, into the tourism map of the Northeast, the organiser said.

Jump in juvenile crimes in Assam: Reports ET Bureau Guwahati, 27 Nov: The state witnessed a spurt in juvenile crimes last year with 580 minors booked for various offences as opposed to 487 the year before.

From rioting and gun running to murder, the ambit of their crimes is quite vast and a cause of concern for lawmakers.

Most juveniles were booked under charges of alleged theft (185) and criminal trespassing (76).

"There were 12 robbery cases recorded against minors. In four of them, there were alleged charges of dacoity, too," said the official report.

The records add that at least 33 rapes, 14 assaults on women, one sexual harassment, 56 charges of kidnapping, 21 murder cases and 12 attempts-to-murder

cases were registered against juveniles across the state in the course of 2015.

In six cases, juveniles were held for gunrunning under the Arms Act. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) said out of the 580 minors arrested in 2015,110 had never been to school and 364 others had received some school education but did not eventually graduate.

In addition, cases have been pending in the state's Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) and Child Welfare Committee (CWC) desks. A status report showed that while 1,632 cases involving minors were pending with various JJBs till March 2016, the figure of such cases in CWCs stood at 494.

However, the Assam Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Rule of

2011 clearly states that JJBs should complete every inquiry within four months of their being filed. Further, in 2013, the state government had asked district sessions courts to act as 'special courts' to deal with juvenile cases speedily and to clear cases within a year.

The Supreme Court Committee on Juvenile Justice, in association with the Gauhati High Court, State Child Protection Committee, Social Welfare department and UNICEF (Assam) is going to begin its twoday-long conclave on the implementation of the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act 2015 to tackle these concerns. The special focus of the meet, which starts on November 26, will be the execution of a rehabilitation service.

AGAINST DEFORESTRATION

Pig production is a major source of livelihood here.

For the predominantly tribal population of the northeast, pigs are a vital source of nutritional support as well.

The region has an estimated 38.38% of the country's total pig population but recent data has revealed that the pig population is declining in five out of eight NE states.

Scientists said high incidence of diseases, lack of quality breeding animals, lack of coordinated breeding programme, shortage of quality feeds and lack of marketing channels are some of the major concerns plaguing the piggery sector in the northeast.

Members of Assam Durniti Nivark caught few people in Golaghat engaged in illegal Timber business today. Photo by Amit Nagori

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 28

REST OF

P5

NORTHEAST

No. of labour licences AKTD general conference cum excellency award decreasing: KHADC Shillong, Nov 27: Donkupar Sumer, the KHADC Executive Member in charge of labour, has asserted that the Council will not issue rampant labour licences to individual leasees. He also pointed out that the number of licences granted has come down in the last few years.

Refuting the allegations by the KHNAM youth wing and HYC that the Council grants extensive labour licences, Sumer said, "When we issue labour licences, it does not mean that it goes unchecked.

When the office receives applications for labour licences, we have to make a thorough examination so that it is as per the laws.

In doing so it will check the flow of immigrants in the State."

Sumer e informed that the number of licences granted by KHADC has decreased over the years.

In 2014, 5,000 non-tribals were issued labour licences that came down to 4,000 in 2015. It has further decreased in 2016

Donkupar Sumer and only 2,000 non-tribals were granted trading licences.

"It has come to the knowledge of the KHADC that there are numerous non-tribals who are working without valid trading licence and very soon the enforcement wing of the KHADC, along with a delegation of leasees recognised by the KHADC, will visit every commercial establishment and factories to inquire as

to whether the workers have valid trading licences," Sumer said.

The executive member said those who do not have valid documents will be given forms to fill up.

These forms should be submitted to the KHADC along with certificates from the house owner, police verification and other documents, following which their applications will be scrutinised by the KHADC.

Dimapur, Nov 27: Ao Kaketshir Telongjem Dimapur (AKTD) organised its 43rd general conference cum 12th excellency award on Saturday here at Saku's Mission College Auditorium on the theme "Sobaliba aser Terenlok (Culture and Progress)"with secretary DUDA Senti Ao as special guest speaker.

Speaking at the conference, Senti emphasised on the theme "Culture and Progress" and said "we always tend to think in terms of tradition and modernity as two water tight compartments."

He remarked such type of thinking was not only in Nagaland but in Asia Minor also since we were all under European power in the past.

Senti lamented that we have

learned the eating and drinking habits, dressing style etc. from the Europeans fallaciously accepting advancement, modernisation and westernisation as progress and forgot our tradition and culture.

He asserted that there was no dearth of gifts and talent and urged the participants to make use of their talent instead of just looking out for government jobs.

The guest speaker further encouraged the youths to strive hard not only to be self-sufficient but work hard to create employment opportunities for others also.

The cash and certificate award recipients were Lanuchetla Longchar d/o Longkumtoshi Longchar, from Nokpu Village,

the party were discussed.

Jamwal held meetings with the party's core group and state office bearers at Dimapur on Friday, wherein party's forthcoming program mes, agendas and other political aspects were deliberated.

While expressing satisfaction over the smooth functioning of the party's organization and setting up of party offices at 58 mandals in the state, he exhorted party workers to strive hard to strengthen the party and to win elected

seats and take development to the masses.

Jamwal was optimistic of BJP forming the next Government in Manipur, where elections will be held early 2017 and exuded confidence that Nagaland would also succeed to do so likewise and in the footsteps of Assam.

To achieve what lies ahead for the party, he advised the party members to work and strive together without promoting differences, the release said.

(UNI)

Dimapur, Nov 27: Angami Catholic Youth Association (ACYA) Year 2017 Plan Drafting was held at Catholic Association of Nagaland, Conference Hall, Kohima on November 26.

The agendas relating to youth ministry on gospel and social activities for the greater glory of God were tabled and chalked out. On the purview of the youth affairs for the Church and facilitation of sacraments for salvation attainment, preparation plan for ACYA convocation in 2018, music camp, way of the cross, rosary prayer, gospel tour, medical camp along with sports and amusement

programme were discussed.

Representatives of the five regions affiliated to ACYA namely Chakro, Kohima Town, Northern, Southern and Western Angami and officials of the NCYM attended the programme.

Earlier ACYA president Medoneisa Marcus chaired the meeting, invocation was pronounced by ACYA representative to Nagaland Catholic Youth Movement (NCYM) Kevizase Edward and vote of thanks by ACYA vice president Mhasiphizo Michael. (Agencies)

Manipur Sangai Festival 2016 National seminar organised 63,217 tickets sold so far Imphal Nov 27: A two-day National seminar on "Depression- A Holistic Perspective and Occupational Health Hazards" organised by College of Nursing, RIMS was held on November 25 and November 26 .

The two day seminar which was inaugurated by RIMS Director Ch Arun Kumar Singh was also attended by Prof H Jamuna Devi, Principal, College of Nursing, RIMS, Prof M Amuba Singh, Medical Superintendent, RIMS, Prof Ak Joy Singh, Dean (Academic), RIMS, officials and faculty of College of Nursing, RIMS. The seminar was organised to sensitize the general public and nursing fraternity in particular on how to show affection, love

Imphal, Nov 27: Globizs Web Solution Private Ltd has so far sold 63,217 tickets in the ongoing Sangai Festival 2016 .

Managing director Yambem Roshinikumar said that till 3 pm today, 63,217 tickets have been sold.

He said, "On the first day, 5,045 tickets were sold.

On the second day, 8,139 tickets were sold.

On the third day, 10,233 tickets were sold while 13,200 and 16,200 tickets were sold on the fourth

and fifth day.

As for today (till 3 pm), they were able to sell 10,400 tickets.

"The ticket is sold for Rs 25 (adults) and Rs 15 (students).

We have kept a target to sell 40,000 tickets per day which is yet to be accomplished.

Last year, the ticket was sold for Rs 20 (adults) and Rs 10(students) and at the end festival, we were able to sell 3 lakh tickets.

For this year, we have

kept an estimated target of Rs 27 lakh.

Last year, the State Government took 40 per cent of the income while 60 per cent of the generated income was given to us for our hardwork.

This year, the State Government will take 45 per cent of the income," he said.

He added that in order to provide better services, visitors can use their credit card or debit card to purchase ticket.

Four National Highway projects cleared for North Eastern region Imphal, Nov 27: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has cleared four projects for the North Eastern region of the country (112.88 km, at a total cost of Rs 1173.98 crore).

While two of these projects are in Manipur, one each is in Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh.

The first project is for strengthening of the existing two lane pavement and providing paved shoulder on a 47.67 km stretch of NH 39

(Mao Imphal section) in Manipur at a cost of Rs 230.46 crore.

Land is already available for the project.

The second project is also for strengthening of the existing two lane pavement and providing paved shoulder on another 27 km stretch of NH 39 (Mao-Imphal section) in Manipur at a cost of Rs 139.87 crore.

Land is available for this project too.

The project in Arunachal Pradesh is for 4-laning of 10.9 km of Itanagar to Banderdewa section of NH-415 at a cost of Rs 341.83 crore.

The State Government is providing 30 to 40 m RightOf-Way (ROW) free from encumbrances for the project.

The project in Nagaland is for improvement 27.3 km of city portion of NH-39 through Dimapur and Kohima at a cost of Rs 461.82 crore.

Land is already available for this project also.

Longkhum Village, Akumsenla Jamir d/o Imtilepzuk from Chuchuyimpang Village, Meyisunep s/o Lipokkaba from Chuchuyimlang Village, Mongyanger s/o Atu Longkumer from Waromong Village, Pangerremla d/o Bendangmeren from Changdang Top and

ACYA drafts Awareness cum voluntary plan for 2017 blood donation camp held

BJP North East in-charge visits Nagaland Kohima, Nov 27: National BJP General Secretary (Org) Northeast in-charge Ajay Jamwal visiting the seven states has concluded his visit here and held series of meetings with party legislators and party office bearers.

In a statement on Saturday, Nagaland BJP General Secretary (Media) Jaangsillung Gonmei said Jamwal accompanied by state BJP President Visasolie Lhoungu met party legislators in Kohima, where various aspects of

Tongpangtangla d/o Senlemmeren from Changtongya Village, Naroenla d/o T. Sashi Ao from Sungratsu Village and Limayangla Longkumer d/o Merenungsang from Changtongya Village.

Imtijungla d/o Sashi Walling from Sungratsu Village, Lanumongba Imchen s/o Rev. T. Ariba Imchen from

Arenjungla Pongen d/o Tinu Pongen from Chuchuyimlang Village received certificates during the function.

Further new team of AKTD officials were also elected.

The new team would be led

by Lanutoshi Aier as president, Moayanger Jamir as secretary along with 29 others as executive and committee members and 3 advisors.Earlier the programme was chaired by AKTD office bearers, welcome address by president L.Bendang Jamir, invocation

by DABA mission director, Limaakum, special song was presented by sub-units of Unity and Diphupar B, special presentation by Aoyimti sub-unit, exhortation by committee convenor Akummeren Pongen and benediction by Indisen youth director Lima Jamir.

and care to depressed patients and to highlight and focus on the occupational health hazards experienced by the nursing community during delivering their service.

Radha Saini of UICC, Geneva spoke on "Depression : Its impact in medical and nursing professionals, youth, chronic patients, defence personnel, elderly, caregivers and students" .

While Prof RK Lenin Singh, Department of Psychiatry, RIMS spoke on "Neurobiology of depression and management of depression" and Manju Singh, Lecturer, College of Nursing, AIIMS, New Delhi spoke on "Depression and post traumatic stress disorder relation" .

Imphal, Nov 27: An 'Awareness cum Voluntary Blood Donation' camp was held today at Lizard Library hall, Wangkhei Meihoubam Lampak, in commemoration of the 100th Birth Centenary Celebration of Late Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay, an esteemed leader of Bharatya Jana Sangh.

The camp was jointly organised by Hareshwar Goshwami (Convenor, RTI Cell, BJP Manipur), Life Savers Manipur (LISAM) and Shija Blood Bank and Transfusion Services.

Meinam Bhorot (ex-president of BJP), Dr Th Bimol (president, LISAM), Advocate Kongbam Joychandra (advisor,

LISAM), Prof S Tiken (senior spokesperson, BJP), Chongtham Bijoy (spokesperson, BJP), Dr Ch Rajmani (MO in charge, Shija Blood Bank and Blood Transfusion Services) and Tayenjam Rakesh (executive officer, Panthoibi Housing Complex) took part as chief guest, president and guests of honour respectively in the opening ceremony.

Speaking at the event, Hareshwar Goshwami said, " The 26th Awareness cum Voluntary Blood Donation camp is also meant to make the people aware of the various schemes and policy launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the betterment of the people" .

He pointed out that Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay was not only a great philosopher and a great economist but also often regarded by many as a historian, sociologist and journalist.

The Prime Minister has been undertaking many developmental works for the people in accordance with the vision of the late pandit, he added.

Accusing the State Government of deliberately down-playing the contribution of the party due to fear of losing votes, he said that BJP has been trying to improve the conditions of the people of the State and to make them accessible to all the beneficial schemes and policies.

Rally against drug, corruption staged Imphal, Nov 27: As various groups and organisations of the State continue to launch extensive campaigns against drugs and corruption, a rally was taken out by BJP, Moreh Committee and BJP (ST) Morcha in and around Moreh today.

Organised under the initiative of BJP intending candidate from Tengnoupal AC H Sokhopao Mate, the rally was joined by around 500 people.

A public meeting was also held.

Speaking at the programme, H Sokhopao Mate said that youth should take an active role in order to bring better

changes in the society.

For pave the way for such changes, social evils should be first wiped out.To create awareness on the need to fight against drugs and corruption which have plagued our society, the rally has been organised, he added.

People know that the present State Government has failed to fulfil the wishes of the people and also failed to bring development in the State.

BJP should be given a chance to form a Government in order to bring the changes ad development people envision, he added.

FUNICH condemns arrest of Naga leaders Dimapur, Nov 27: The Forum for Understanding the Naga-India Conflict and Human Rights (FUNICH) has Saturday condemned Manipur Government's discriminatory action towards the Naga people by arresting its tallest Naga civil apex body leader.

While stating that it was unfortunate that leaders were arrested for asserting the inherent indigenous peoples' rights of the Naga people in Manipur, FUNICH in a statement issued by its convener Lakpachui Siro reminded the government that United Naga Council (UNC) president Gaidon Kamei represent the voice of all the Nagas whose areas fall within the State jurisdiction of Manipur on issue of land, Naga culture, tradition and customary law.

Manipur government clearly knows that the ongoing blockade in the hill districts is the direct result of government's attempt to address issue of Sadar Hills and Jiribam

sion. The State Government instead of creating conducive environment for dialogue and discussion amongst the stakeholders, it is busy creating social tensions amongst various ethnic communities with clear intention to come back to power," alleged FUNICH statement.

FUNICH also trashed off State government justification that plan for Sadar Hill and Jiribam district creation was purely on administrative convenience. disregarding previous Memorandum of Understanding between the Naga civil bodies and governments of India and the State, alleged FUNICH. "Rather than addressing the issue democratically, State government imprisoning the Naga leaders amount to State inability to address genuine concerns of the people inhabiting within the State jurisdiction. If at all the State government is se-

rious on the issue, taking the confidence of all the stakeholders is expected.

However, in the present case, the State government has completely ignored the voice of all the stakeholders," the statement read.

FUNICH alleged that the State government actions to address the issue of Sardar Hill and Jiribam was nothing more than a political gimmick to come back to power in the State and further added that this

was not the first time that the State government under Congress has played communal politics on the issue related to land when election is near. "It means that the State Government or the Congress Party is not serious at all to resolve the issue but rather using it for its own political mileage. It is very clear, that the State Government is playing with the emotion of the hill peoples as well the valley peoples by creating communal ten-

No amount of excuses, therefore, would justify the action of State Government arresting leader of the most respected traditional social institution of the Nagas in the State, stated the forum. The forum, therefore, has appealed the State government and Centre for unconditional and immediate release of the Naga leader for lasting peaceful coexistence of various ethnic communities in the State.

EDITORIAL

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 28

Today's quote

“

Life is a play that does not allow testing. So, sing, cry, dance, laugh and live intensely, before the curtain closes and the piece ends with no Applause."

Charlie Chaplin

Callous disregard to needs of disabled The Supreme Court’s strong censuring of the Central government for tardy implementation of the steps to be taken to help the disabled persons with accessibility and other issues has not come a day too soon. The court was hearing a batch of public interest suits on the delayed implementation of the Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full participation) Act 1995 and the Centre’s law officer cut a sorry figure trying to explain why the central coordination committee as envisaged in the Act had not met for over four years. India is a signatory to the UN Convention on the Right to Persons with Disabilities, passed in 2008.

Though the Disabilities Act passed by Parliament preceded this and required the Central and state governments to adopt various measures including prevention and early detection of disabilities, providing equality in education and employment, taking affirmative action and removing physical barriers in public places for disabled persons, very little progress has been made in the last 21 years.

The NDA government, within a year of coming to power, did come forward with the Right of Persons with Disabilities Bill 2014, which incorporated a number of important changes to the earlier Act, but it has been stuck before the parliamentary standing committee on social justice and empowerment. The new Bill recognises 20 forms of disabilities as against seven earlier and proposes to extend rights and benefits to all persons with disabilities, removing the earlier cap of at least 40% disability. It also mandates that children of six to 18 years with 40% disability shall be provided free education in neighbourhood schools. In December 2015, the Centre launched Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan), under which it was pledged that around 100 prominent government buildings across the country would be made disabled-friendly by July 2016 to present them as models to be emulated. International airports and major railways stations were also to be remodelled as part of the campaign.

But, just as Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s favourite slogan, “Sabka saath, sabka vikas,” these disabledfriendly measures have also remained on paper, inviting the Supreme Court’s reprimand. It’s not only the government, even private sector companies and institutions that have shown callous disregard to the needs of the disabled. India has one of the highest populations of the disabled in the world at 2.68 crore people, according to the 2011 census, which was a staggering 22.4% increase over the previous census figure. Apart from acting quickly on all its good intentions, the Centre will also do well to speed up its proposal to create a mobile app with web portal for crowd sourcing the attention to inaccessible places for the authorities to take remedial actions.

END WILD SPECULATIONS Making a rare intervention in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh claimed that the Modi Government's demonetisation decision could set back the country's GDP growth by two percentage points. He was adding to recent speculation that the economic disruption as a result of the demonetisation drive would have serious consequences for the nation's economy. The former Prime Minister had, of course, indulged in back-of-the-envelope calculations — the best one can do in the given circumstances and arrive at conclusions that suit a predetermined position. But the apprehension of a significant dip in GDP growth is as wild in its guess as it is motivated. For instance, brokerage firm Ambit Capital has virtually sounded the death-knell for India's economy, estimating 2017 financial year growth at a mere 3.5 per cent, and that of 2018 at 5.8 per cent. But banking conglomerate HSBC has said that the impact would be far less: For the six months of the current fiscal it would fall by 0.5 per cent — down from 6.4 per cent in the previous six months. It is difficult to accept, even after making room for the worst-case scenario, how a country with a large domestic market and strong economic linkages, chugging along at a seven per cent GDP growth, will suddenly, within a few months, see its growth halved. True, economic disasters strike suddenly, as it happened in the US in 2008, but the indicators are there much beforehand for all to see. In the present case, no such hint is at hand. All that the critics of the Narendra Modi-led Government are doing is to to concoct situations that can cause alarm and derail the Government's anti-black money, anti-corruption, and anti-counterfeit drive. Also, those are willing to give credence to alarmist reports about the country's GDP growth in the coming years, need to note the endorsement from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). As the world's prime lending agency, its opinion matters. The IMF has backed the demonetisation decision as a good move and said the Government must now ensure that “currency transactions” are “managed prudently to minimise possible disruptions”.

Global world leaders like Bill Gates too have supported the demonetisation drive. In any case, even if one accepts for argument's sake, that the nation's GDP growth will witness a setback in the coming months, isn't it better to manage with a lower GDP growth for some months even as the parallel economy is being cleaned up? Should we be so fixated with a high GDP growth that is driven to a significant extent by the black money economy? To accept the latter premise is akin to endorsing a Chief Minister's recent remark that black money had come to the country's aid during financial crises in the past!

Nobody is denying that the Government's decision, which came into effect from the midnight of November 8, has led to many inconveniences to millions of ordinary customers across the country. Given the secrecy attached to the move, a system to adequately cater to the problems that erupted in the aftermath of the decision, could not be put in place. But now, the authorities have begun to move fast, and there are signs that the situation is easing on the ground.

P6

Can India really become a cashless society?

Sameer Hashmi (BBC) On the evening of 8 November, vegetable vendor Vishal Gupta was preparing to shut his roadside stall when Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that 500 ($7.30; £6) and 1,000 rupee notes would be banned effective midnight as part of a crackdown on corruption.

Within minutes, people were out on the streets queuing outside ATM machines to withdraw money in lower denominations or rushing to shops to buy provisions. The two banned notes account for 86% of all notes in circulation in India's largely cash economy.

"I sold all the vegetables in my stall in 20 minutes.

This had never happened before," Mr Gupta told the BBC. But the following day, he did not earn anything. Very few customers turned up and even those who wanted to buy vegetables did not have change to pay him.

The situation continued for the next five days where without buyers all his vegetables got spoilt, causing him a loss of over 10,000 rupees ($150;£121) Desperate to earn some money, Mr Gupta turned to popular mobile wallet Paytm, which he had heard about from his friend. Mobile wallets are apps that allow people to load and transfer money electronically using their

smartphones.

"The situation is better now. I get at least four to five customers a day who use mobile wallets to pay me," he says.

Like Mr Gupta, many small business owners are using mobile transactions and cards to survive.

One of the biggest beneficiaries of the government's decision are financial technology firms which have seen a surge in new customers.

Paytm, India's largest mobile payment company, says that it has seen a 700% increase in overall traffic, and a 300% hike in the number of app downloads with daily transactions touching 5 million.

It currently has 85,000 merchants on its platform but the company has now set a bold target of signing up another five million by March 2017. The company is backed by Chinese ecommerce giant Alibaba.

"We have seen remarkable growth since the currency announcement came in. We are opening offices in small cities and towns to expand our presence" Kiran Vasireddy, senior vice president at Paytm, told the BBC. Payment revolution Other mobile wallets like Mobikwik and Freecharge have also reported a huge jump in new customers.

But it's not just mobile payment firms who are trying to woo consumers.

Indian banks are also encouraging people to go cashless by using online banking and mobile apps services. Financial technology firms are seeing the rupee ban as a start of a digital payment revolution in the country.

Paytm came out with fullpage advertisements in newspapers, congratulating the prime minister for taking the "boldest step in the financial history of India".

What is fuelling this optimism is that India is the second largest market for smartphones behind China.

This has coincided with a rapid rise in internet users.

The country presently has

more than 450 million internet users, a number expected to touch 700 million by 2020.

But despite this sharp uptick in mobile and online payments, this overall user base is still very small for a country with a population of 1.25 billion people. And India still has a long way to go to before it can become a major cashless economy.

Most people only like dealing in cash. This is a mindset issue that will take a lot of time and effort to change.

And with more than half of India's population residing in rural areas where mobile coverage is still patchy, this task becomes even more daunting.

Restricted use

Even though India has successfully opened millions of banks accounts over the last two years to get more people into the financial system, a huge portion of the population still has no access to banking services.

The country has more than 24 million credit cards and 650 million debit cards.

The number of debit cards has been growing steadily but most people only use them to withdraw money from ATMs instead of using them to make payments.

"You need more small businesses to buy devices that will accept debit and credit cards. Most of them want cash," says Vivek

Belgavi, a financial services expert with PricewaterhouseCoopers India.

While businesses in the cities are gradually moving to cashless modes of payments, their counterparts in smaller cities and towns are reluctant to do that. They still do not understand the advantages of digital transactions. There is also a perception among a lot of Indians that internet and mobile transactions are not secure.

Many experts say that the key task once the cash situation normalises will be to retain customers that have switched to cashless payments in recent days.

Not an easy task in a nation where cash is king.

(Courtesy: BBC)

Mamata devises a new game plan to enter national politics Just before West Bengal elections, Derek O’ Brien had hinted at Mamata Banerjee’s ambitions and said that Delhi was only two hours from the State.

So, Delhi is Mamata’s new destination, and looks like she has landed into national politics via demonetisation Several Opposition parties are gearing up for the same strategy that Mamata Banerjee and Arvind Kejriwal adopted last week. On the first day of the Winter Session of Parliament, when the Congress, Left and other Opposition parties were holding discussions in the Rajya Sabha, Mamata and Kejriwal marched up to the President house and handed over a memorandum to him. The next day, when all other Opposition parties were busy in creating ruckus in Parliament, Mamata and Kejriwal addressed a rally at Delhi’s Azadpur Mandi and said they will take the battle against demonetisation forward.

Now, other Opposition parties are planning to march to the President house; they will hold a dharna and are also are planning a country-wide shutdown. Meanwhile, Mamata has again returned to Delhi. Next on her agenda is a tour of the entire country. She will go to the States where elections are scheduled to campaign against the BJP. She will also go to Bihar because Nitish Kumar has supported demonetisation.

A senior MP of the TMC says Mamata clearly wants to be a part of national politics. Now, it looks like she will set the agenda and the rest of the parties will follow suit.

This year, just before West Bengal elections,

from successful.

Derek O’ Brien had hinted at Mamata’s ambitions and said that Delhi was only two hours from the State. So, Delhi is Mamata’s new destination, and looks like she has landed into national politics via demonetisation.

Sources in the TMC say Mamata will return to Delhi soon. She will try her hand at alternative politics — that of taking a separate path from the Congress and Left. She will take the concept of Federal Front forward, which will be unlike the second and third fronts.

SONIA’S CLEAR INDICATION After a long time, Sonia Gandhi attended a public function recently. She inaugurated an exhibition on Indira Gandhi’s life at Allahabad’s historical Swaraj Bhavan, which was also attended by Priyanka and Rahul. While interacting with the media, Sonia clearly indicated that Rahul would take charge of the party.

When someone said there was no strong leader in the Congress like Narendra Modi, she reminded people of Indira Gandhi. She said that when Indira had entered politics, people had raised questions and also criticised her. But she went on to become the president of the Congress and also took command of the country as the Prime Minister. Sonia’s statement is being analysed not just outside but also within the Congress.

A senior party leader says Sonia has indicated that despite all the criticism, Rahul is the leader of the Congress. He will become the president of the party, and when and if the Congress finds the opportunity, he would become the PM. People are saying that Sonia had indicated this to senior leaders of the party before the last CWC meeting. That is why Rahul presided over the meeting and all leaders requested him to take charge of the party.

Sources in the Congress

say the party can make the big announcement any time now.

TAKING A STEP BACK

day, RPN Singh called a press conference to clarify that Priyanka had not made up her mind about campaigning. It is said that Sonia doesn’t want to create any confusion at this time. So, she has indicated towards Rahul and has also made it clear that Priyanka will not make her foray into active politics right now.

Congress president Sonia Gandhi has given a big jolt to the supporters of Priyanka Gandhi, who used to raise the slogan, “Priyanka lao, desh bachao”. Sources say that in the past two weeks, M A M A T A many things have changed in the Congress. Sonia has PARTYMEN JUBILANT given a stern message to Mamata’s partymen are those who use to advocate Priyanka’s entry into ac- happy as they believe that tive politics and campaign- the stature of their leader is ining. creasSonia Hari shankar vyas i n g h a s day s e t aside all strategies and by day. In UP’s election planning which had been campaign, PM Modi tarprepared by supporters geted her by mentioning the Saradha scam, and this for Priyanka. was the proof — they beThey had also geared up lieve — that she had befor a rally of Priyanka in come the greatest chalAllahabad on November lenge for the Government 19, and were hoping to on issues of national imrope her into election cam- portance. Modi targeted paigning after the rally. But Mayawati too, but that it is being said that Sonia was obvious since the BJP didn’t give a green signal would be fighting the BSP in the State, say these leadto this plan. ers.

Last week, two senior However, Mamata is leaders of the Congress, Raj Babbar and Sanjay ready to enter national poliSingh, came forward in tics via the Delhi route. Her the media and said recent anti-demonetisation Priyanka would campaign rally in the Capital was not in Uttar Pradesh and go the first time when she has beyond Amethi and tried her luck here. Some Raebareli. Sources say time ago, she had adthat after this statement, dressed a rally at Ramlila Sonia and Rahul became Maidan along with Anna angry, and the very next Hazare, though it was far

WHAT IS CONG’S STRATEGY? Nobody could get a grip on why the Congress stuck for discussion on demonetisation under the rule of voting in the Lok Sabha? In the same manner, nobody was able to comprehend why the party allowed discussion in the Rajya Sabha under no rule of voting? Also, one wonders why after discussion on the first day, the Congress started disrupting the House from the second day.

In fact, the confusion started on day one of the parliamentary session over the strategy of the Opposition. When MPs of the TMC, AAP, NC, and Shiv Sena went to meet the President the first day, the Congress and Left went for discussion in the Rajya Sabha.

After meeting the President, the TMC realised that it would not yield anything; in the same manner, the Congress and Left thought that the discussion would not be of any help. So, they came together and stalled Parliament the following day.

On the other hand, the Congress has poor strength in the Lok Sabha on its own. Old partners of the Congress, like the Left, RJD and JDU, are also on the margins.

There is not a single MP

of the BSP and DMK, and SP has only five MPs. The AIADMK and BJD are with the Government. So, the Opposition has additional strength of Mamata’s 33 MPs only. In this scenario, voting will not serve any purpose. But the Congress is hopeful that stalling Parliament would certainly benefit the party.

‘MANN’ KI BAAT IN PUNJAB Bhagwant Mann, the AAP MP from Sangrur, is flying high these days. He feels that at last Kejriwal has made him the CM candidate. Though there is no official announcement on this, he is considering himself as the CM candidate. Kejriwal had announced that Mann will be fighting against Deputy CM of Punjab, Sukhbir Singh Badal, from Jalalabad seat. After this, Mann and his supporters have been on cloud nine and are claiming that the party high command has given a green light to his candidature.

Before this, Kejriwal had sent Mann to take part in Mamata’s march to the President house, making him AAP’s face of crusade against demonetisation. It now seems that Navjot Singh Sidhu’s entry into AAP has been blocked because Bains brothers have joined AAP. In this scenario, Mann is the only popular face in the party. That is why he doesn’t seem to be worried about his suspension from Parliament. In fact, he thinks it is going in his favour as he is using this time to prepare for the elections. He apparently also said that it was better to become Punjab’s CM than to sit on the back benches in Parliament. (Republished from the Pioneer)

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 28

OP-ED

P7 When did the middle finger become offensive?

Daniel Nasaw BBC News Magazine

An American television network has apologised after pop star M.I.A. extended her middle finger during Sunday night's Super Bowl halftime show. What does the gesture mean, and when did it become offensive?

'Phallic gesture' Ancient Greek philosophers, Latin poets hoping to sell copies of their works, soldiers, athletes and pop stars, schoolchildren, peevish policemen and skittish network executives have all been aware of the gesture's particular power to insult and inflame.

A public intellectual, expressing his contempt for a gas-bag politician, reaches for a familiar gesture. He extends his middle finger and declares: "This is the great demagogue."

"It's one of the most ancient insult gestures known," says anthropologist Desmond Morris.

"The middle finger is the penis and the curled fingers on either side are the testicles. By doing it, you are offering someone a phallic gesture. It is saying, 'this is a phallus' that you're offering to people, which is a very primeval display."

The episode occurred not on a chat show nor in the salons of New York or London, but in 4th Century BC Athens, when the philosopher Diogenes told a group of visitors exactly what he thought about the orator Demosthenes, according to a later Greek historian.

The middle finger, extended with the other fingers held beneath the thumb, is thus documented to have expressed insult and belittlement for more than two millennia.

Expression of 'displeasure' The French have their own phallic salute, says Dr Morris.

In performing the "bras d'honneur" (arm of honour), one raises the forearm with the back of the hand facing outward, while slapping or gripping the inside of the elbow with the other hand.

The British gesture - the two-fingered "v" with the palm facing inward - is a "double phallus", Dr Morris quips.

Although scholars and historians continue to debate its origins, according to legend it was first displayed at the battle of Agincourt in 1415, although this is widely regarded as mythology. .

The story goes that En-

Whether or not M.I.A. was aware, the gesture originally referred to a phallus

During Sunday night's broadcast of the Super Bowl, America's mostwatched television programme of the year,

When something gets included as a part of the ICSE syllabus, most students, no matter how brilliant the quality, develop a certain sense of repulsion towards it. This happens solely due to the reason that most readers live to read. The curriculum does not let you live the content that is being read, it narrows the point of view to that of a single examiner.

British singer M.I.A. extended the finger during a performance of Madonna's Give Me All Your Luvin'.

The NFL and NBC television, which broadcast the game and the half-time show, apologised.

"The obscene gesture in the performance was completely inappropriate," said Brian McCarthy, a spokesman for the NFL. The gesture is widely

known to Americans as flipping the bird, or just giving someone the finger.

The Romans had their own name for it: digitus impudicus - the shameless, indecent or offensive finger.

In the Epigrammata of First Century AD by the Latin poet Martial, a character who has always enjoyed good health extends a finger, "the indecent one", at three doctors.

glish soldiers waved their fingers at French soldiers who had threatened to cut off captured archers' first two fingers to prevent them shooting arrows. The English were thus boasting they were still capable of doing so.

The middle finger's offensive meaning seems to have overtaken cultural, linguistic and national boundaries and can now be seen at protests, on football pitches, and at rock concerts across the world.

In December, Liverpool striker Luis Suarez was photographed giving an American-style middle finger to Fulham fans after his club's 1-0 loss there.

The FA cited him for improper conduct and suspended him for one game.

The legend that the "two-fingered salute" stems from the Battle of Agincourt is apocryphal.

Harry Potter wasn’t made for classrooms

For many, Shakespeare is the greatest writer of all time.

For most ICSE school students studying his plays, he’s just a reason for the extension of the number of unit tests.

Diogenes of Sinope was reputedly a fan of the middlefinger gesture

You study it to get the im- such a brilliant piece of litpression of one or two erature. A lot of Potterheads numericals on your answer think that Voldemort is the script. It reduces the larger actual hero of the series and story to underlined phrases they have exceptional reaand the reason for all- sons for their choice. nighters to take place.

A lot of people also TRINAYANA PANDA The Harry think that Potter series Remus Luwas an escape for many stu- pin was a negative characdents. It introduced them to ter. A lot of people, who have something beyond the or- lived Harry Potter and not dinary — magic. When this just read it, have the most same series gets included as bizarre choice but the best a part of the syllabus some of explanations. This bestudents tried to escape comes a problem when an from, it just highlights the examiner who has only unfairness of the curriculum thought of one perspective and reduces the weight of and a single answer to a

question faces these uncommon choices in the answer scripts.

It also becomes a problem when certain lecturers conclude that Severus Snape only tried to protect Harry because of what he felt for Lily and for no other reason whatsoever.

It becomes a problem because Harry Potter was meant to be a different, magical route of escapism from classroom lectures. It was never meant to be one of them.

(The views are the author’s personal)

Monkeys' obscene gesture The Roman historian Tacitus wrote that German tribesmen gave the middle finger to advancing Roman soldiers, says Thomas Conley, a professor emeritus of communication and classics at the University of Illinois, who has written about the rhetoric of insults.

Earlier, the Greeks used the middle finger as an explicit reference to the male genitalia.

In 419BC, the playwright Aristophanes puns in his comedy The Clouds about dactylic (finger) rhythm, with a character gesturing first with his middle finger and subsequently with his crotch.

The gesture's origins may extend even further back: male squirrel monkeys of South America are known to gesture with the erect penis, says Dr Morris.

The middle finger, which Dr Morris says probably arrived in the US with Italian immigrants, is documented in the US as early as 1886, when a pitcher for the Boston Beaneaters gave it in a joint team photograph with the rival New York Giants.

They may look innocent, but these squirrel monkeys are capable of their own obscene gesture

Protest, rage, excitement In 2004, a Canadian MP from Calgary was accused of pointing his middle finger at a member from another party who he said had been heckling him in the House of Commons.

"I expressed my displeasure to him, let's put it this way," Deepak Obhrai told a Canadian newspaper.

Two years earlier, pop star Britney Spears gave the finger to a group of photographers in Mexico who she complained had been chasing her.

Some of her fans thought the gesture was aimed at them, and Spears later apologised.

While the middle finger may historically have symbolised a phallus, it has lost that distinc-

tive meaning and is no longer even obscene, says Ira Robbins, a law professor at American University in Washington DC, who has studied the gesture's place in criminal jurisprudence.

"It does not appeal to the prurient interests," he says.

"This gesture is so well ingrained in everyday life in this country and others. It means so many other things, like protest or rage or excitement, it's not just a phallus."

And he rejects an Associated Press journalist's characterisation of the gesture as "risque".

"What is risque about it?

Maybe the dancing was risque, but the finger? I just don't see it."

India has a relative advantage with respect to Trump The world’s most powerful nation has Donald Trump at its helm. New Delhi and capitals across the world, including Washington, are still getting their heads around this. How do we deal with President Trump, or words to that effect, headline classified policy papers on the desks of dozens of premiers and presidents. Trump’s victory led South Korea’s National Security Council and the European Union foreign ministers to hold emergency meetings.

New Delhi has had its first official interaction with the Trump transition team, initiating the game of finding out the president-elect actual policies, what is just campaign rhetoric and what is just dry leaves blowing outside Trump Tower. Or whether there is any meaningful distinction between the three.

India has reasons for concern regarding a Trump administration. Three obvious ones are immigration, climate change and the Iranian nuclear deal.

The Donald has called for an end to H-1B visas, about half of which are used by Indian infotech workers and one of which, or so she claims, was used by his present wife, Melania. He has said climate change is a product of Chinese propaganda. If true, we would be all fretting about qihou bianhua today. And he has sworn to rip up the Iranian nuclear deal.

And yet Trump also said he supports highly skilled migrants coming to America, said he has an “open mind” about the Paris climate change agreement and, reportedly, even Israel plans to tell him not to be too hasty about trashing the Iranian deal.

One gets a sense that Trump doesn’t have strong

opinions about world-defin- tion sector a diplomatic ing policy issues. He likes favour.

Two, help him keep his to say it is best to eschew long-term strategising. “I white trash constituency plan for the future by focus- happy. Killing the Transing exclusively on the Pacific Partnership is an expresent,” is a favourite line. ample of how much Trump The stuff that he has is determined to cultivate showed strong and consis- his base. He will seek more tent opinions about include sops. India can helpfully real estate (he calls it beau- note that in a good year it is the fourth-largtiful, solid, tanest importer of gible), the rapChanakya American coal. per M&M (he likes) and America’s treaty It can display its excellent allies (he thinks they take the counterterrorism credentials. It can offer to produce US for a ride).

Trump has also said “I cheap generic medicine of love Hindu” but whether the variety Trump says he this was because the Indian needs to reduce healthcare Americans for Trump had costs.

Three, where donated a lot of money to his campaign, because In- Trumpspeak is in conflict dia is the number one site with Indian interests, find of new buildings labelled other arguments to pursue “Trump,” or whether he ac- the same policy. India can tually has a good instinct for resurrect dormant plans for India remains unclear. How- clean coal projects that the ever, it does give New Delhi Obama administration had a foothold with the new ad- rejected. It can argue clean ministration that should be energy is a way for both Incarefully leveraged. Whether dia and the US to reduce you dislike Trump, and there Saudi oil imports — someis not too much admire except thing Trump kept threatena genuine ability to entertain ing during his campaign. crowds and perhaps his hair- Immigration is a bit more difstyle, the national interest in ficult but the fact longworking with him and further- legged models are covered ing India’s agenda is self-evi- by H-1B may lead Trump to change his opinion. dent.

Finally, New Delhi can Here are some possible ways to handle the Donald. take some assurance that in One, look for the personal the swarm of names making connect. Trump has no the rounds in the Beltway world view, no seeming po- for the top positions in the litical ideology and is resist- Trump administration none ing even moving out of his has any known animus to Manhattan penthouse to India. All of them are part live in the White House — and parcel of a broad coninadvertently recalling the sensus in both the Republiyears 1785 to 1790 when can and Democratic camps New York City was the that India and the US are nation’s capital. But the re- “indispensable partners” in cent franchise agreements the 21st century. An addihe has signed with Indian tional benefit is that many firms have made our coun- of them have little positive try top of the mind. Unlike, to say about China and Pasay, Japan, which he con- kistan. That includes stantly gripes about, there Trump, who has called Pais no baggage regarding In- kistan “the most dangerous dia in Trump’s mind. New country in the world” even Delhi may owe its construc- if that may mean its risk pre-

mium is too high for luxury apartment construction.

Trump takes pride in being an artist of the deal.

But one has a sense that after a year or so of ribboncutting, protocol officers and congressional wheeling and dealing he may soon bore of his presidential duties and hand over much of the running of the government to his underlings. As Trump once said about work-life balance, just “make your work more pleasurable”. Why attend stuffy state banquets when the pleasures of Greenwich Village and Twitter await?

First impressions are important for Donald Trump.

The nature of a narcissist is that once he makes up his mind, he never has any selfdoubts or second thoughts. “When I think I’m right, nothing bothers me,” Trump likes to say. New Delhi owes a favour of sorts to India’s motley contractorbuilder business for leaving a positive impression on the US president-elect. Given the man’s character it may provide India political capital with the new administration far longer that it would have with a run-of-the-mill president who would be more driven by transactional calculations.

But Prime Minister Narendra Modi should prepare well before engaging the new US leader.

Washington’s landscape will be akin to a California earthquake zone, prone to shift and tremors. The solidity of the superpower is likely to be gone. What is up and what is down could literally be decided by Trump waking up on the wrong side of Melania. As the world’s most powerful man, at least from January 20 onwards, likes to say, “Predictable is bad.”

(Republished from Hindustan times)

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 28

NATION Nabha jailbreak: Five prisoners escape, DG Jails suspended

Patiala, Nov 27 :In a sensational jailbreak, a group of armed men in police uniform today attacked the high-security Nabha Jail here and fled with five prisoners, including Khalistan Liberation Front chief Harminder Mintoo, an accused in 10 cases.

Heads started to roll soon after the incident with the Punjab Government suspending DG (Jails) and dismissing two other senior prison officials even as the opposition Congress said the incident exposed the "complete breakdown of law and order" in the state and triggered fears of revival of terrorism ahead of assembly elections.

The Centre has sought a report from the state government over the jailbreak incident.

Giving details of the jailbreak, police said a group of youths dressed in police uniform stormed the jail and opened indiscriminate fire.

Five prisoners including a hardcore terrorist escaped, they said.

Those who escaped from the high-security prison include gangster Vicky

Gaundar, Gurpreet Sekhon, Nita Deol, Vikramjeet, and Mintoo, police said.

Mintoo was arrested by Punjab Police from Delhi's IGI Airport in 2014. He was arrested in connection with 10 cases including the 2008 attack on Sirsa-based Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram

Rahim Singh and recovery of explosives at Halwara Air Force Station in 2010.

A high alert has been sounded in Punjab and Haryana after the incident with security around railway stations, airports, inter-state bus terminuses and other places of key importance stepped up.

Punjab Chief Minister Prakash Singh Badal has summoned an emergent meeting of senior officials including State Chief Secretary Sarvesh Kaushal following the incident.

Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal said, "DG Jails has been suspended and Jail superintendent and Deputy Jail Superintendent have been dismissed".

A manhunt has been launched to trace the prisoners who escaped,

Sukhbir Badal, who also holds the home portfolio, said and added that a special task force has been formed to track them.

The Deputy CM said a special investigation team under a ADGP rank officer has also been constituted which shall look into lapses as well as any conspiracy theories surrounding the jail break incident.

"Special Investigation team has been asked to submit report within three days in this regard," he said.

The Home Secretary has also been asked to submit a report.

"Home Secretary will give me a report on whether any lapse has taken place.

Whosoever will be found responsible in this incident, strict action will be taken against him," he said. .

(PTI )

P8 Demonetisation will boost BJP's electoral fortune in UP: Mahendra Singh

PTI, Lucknow, Nov 27 : The Centre's demonetisation move will have a positive impact on BJP's electoral fortune in the coming Assembly polls in Uttar Pradesh and no one can stop it from forming the next government, party national secretary Mahendra Singh has said.

"Demonetisation will have an impact on the coming Assembly polls in UP as it is not the common people, but corrupt leaders, officials and industrialists who are perturbed by the move," Singh told PTI.

"This is a big decision...

It is BSP and SP that appear to be more worried by it," he said, adding that people were minutely watching the panic situation of political parties.

"There has been a definite increase in our vote bank in Uttar Pradesh... It is evident from the massive turnouts in the ongoing 'Parivartan Yatras' of the party... No one can now stop it from coming to power in the state in the coming polls," he said.

The common people know that BJP has taken this step in accordance

with the promise made by it during the Lok Sabha election campaign with regard to black money, he said. Singh, who is also the convenor of 'Parivartan Yatras', said the law and order situation in the state was dismal.

"People of the state are fed up with the governments led by BSP and SP... There has been corruption and crime everywhere during the governments led by these parties... Now the people want development and they look to BJP as the only alternative," he claimed.

"BJP works for positive change in social, political and economic spheres in national interest, whereas other parties are visible only at election time," he said.

Criticising the Akhilesh Yadav government, he said that it was doing "drama" in the name of development and the benefits of even the schemes of the Central government were not reaching the common people in the state.

Demonetisation has given Rahul, PM Narendra Modi's idea of cashless Mamata sleepless nights: Shah economy unrealistic, HIGHLIGHTS Nabha Jailbreak: HM Rajnath says Omar Abdullah Amit Shah has said that PM Modi's Singh seeks report,directs demonetisation move has Srinagar, Nov 27 : connectivity in J&K & Former Jammu and the absence of points of given opposition leaders Rahul Gandhi and Kashmir Chief Minister sale I fear I'd starve," he tightening of security Mamata Banerjee "sleep- Omar Abdullah today tweeted. less nights"

Amit Shah Bengaluru, Nov 27 : BJP President Amit Shah on Sunday said Prime Minister Narendra Modi's demonetisation move has given opposition leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mamata Banerjee "sleepless nights".

"Friends, people who are hurt are those whose black money has gone for a toss.

The demonetisation move has given sleepless nights to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Mamata, Arvind Kejriwal, and also they have lost shine on their faces," he said at the BJP's 'Other Backward Classes' rally here. "..Till November 7, opposition parties BSP, SP and Congress, and also leaders like Mamata, Arvind Kejriwal, were questioning

Modi ji's steps to bring back black money, but after November eight midnight, they changed their tone and started to ask why did he do this (demonetisation)," he said.

Slamming the opposition for joining hands to oppose demonetisation, he said: "There is a flood-like situation where you find one tree in the middle, on which a rat, cat, mongoose and snake have climbed to save themselves from the raging water, flowing below," he said.

"Interestingly, the mongoose and the cat are not eating the snake and the rat - they all have joined hands against Modi's fight against black money and corruption," he said.

termed as "unrealistic" the idea of a cashless Shah, however, ex- economy as floated by pressed his gratitude to- Prime Minister Narendra wards Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar for sup- Modi in his 'Mann Ki porting Modi's efforts to Baat' radio address, sayfight corruption and ing internet connectivity in the state was unreliblack money able.

Shah, however, expressed "I'd love to move to a his gratitude towards Bihar cashless economy but chief minister Nitish given the reliability of Kumarfor supporting Modi's efforts to fight corruption and black money.

"I want to express my gratitude towards Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for supporting Modiji's fight against black money and corruption," he said.

Referring to the Congress government in Karnataka, Shah alleged that the Siddaramaiah government was the "most corrupt" in the country and urged the people of the state to root out the present one to elect BJP under the chief ministership of B S Yeddyurappa, which would make the state one of the top states in its five- New Delhi, Nov 27:Expressing confidence on year rule.(Agencies) demonetisation move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said that India will shine like gold as the actions would curb unaccounted wealth in the country.

Mann ki Baat: India will shine like gold after demonetisation fire, says Modi

Punjab Govt Forms SIT, Announces Rs 25 Lakh Reward For Information On Nabha Jailbreak Nabha (Patiala, Punjab), Nov 27 : Punjab government on Sunday formed a special investigation team (SIT) to probe Nabha Jailbreak and announced Rs 25 lakh cash reward to any person providing information leading to arrest of escaped prisoners.

The state government ordered constitution of an Enquiry Committee headed

by Addl Chief Secy (Home) Jagpal Singh Sandhu to look into security lapses at high-security Nabha Jail in Punjab's Patiala district from where six prisoners including two terrorists, three gangsters and Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) chief Harminder Singh alias Mintoo escaped in the wee hours on Sunday. The jail guards retaliated but could not stop the escape.

Punjab Police DGP Suresh Arora and Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal reached Nabha jail on Sunday to take stock of the situation. Following the incident, Punjab government suspended additional director general of police (ADGP) (Prisons) MK Tiwari and dismissed Nabha jail superintendent Paramjit Singh Sandhu and Deputy Superintendent of Police Karanjit Singh Sandhu from service.

Launching a scathing attack on the state govern-

The National Conference (NC) working president said it was an unrealistic idea especially for the people living in remote areas of the state.

"And I live in Srinagar.

Imagine asking people in Gurez, Karnah, Keran & other remote areas to dispense with cash!!! Totally unrealistic idea," he said.

"Just like gold we will emerge glowing from this fire. The main reason behind this confidence is our people," Modi said in his monthly radio broadcast "Mann ki Baat".

"Your support despite se-

vere problems touched me. You have not wavered despite efforts to misguide you," he added.

"Governments, post offices, banks are working very hard and are working with dedication," Modi said, adding, "I feel proud when I see this strong will power in my country".

Modi asked the youngsters to "support the demonetization move".

"The time has come to take our economy to new highs," he added.

(Agencies)

HIGHLIGHTS Mamata Banerjee has accused PM Modi of misusing government machinery.

It is not Mann Ki Baat, it is Modi Ki Baat, Mamata tweeted.

Omar Abdullah rejected the idea of cashless economy.

Rajnath Singh

New Delhi, Nov 27 : Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday spoke to Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal about the Nabha jailbreak in which a hardcore Khalistani terrorist escaped along with five other prisoners and sought a detailed report from the state government.

The Home Minister, who was in Hyderabad, also asked the Chief Minister to take urgent steps to tighten security in all jails in Punjab, officials said.

During the 15-minute telephonic conversation, Badal briefed Singh about the incident and steps taken to nab the culprits.

"I have told the Home Secretary to get a report from the Punjab government immediately. If the Punjab government needs any assistance, we will provide it," Singh said.

Punjab Deputy Chief

Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal also spoke to the National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and apprised him of the details of the incident. He updated the NSA on steps being taken to apprehend the culprits.

Concerned over the incident, Home Ministry asked the Punjab government to send the report as early as possible.

Union Home Secretary Rajiv Mehrishi also spoke to Director General of Punjab Police and asked him to ensure adequate security in all jails in Punjab.

In the sensational jailbreak, a group of armed men in police uniform attacked the high-security Nabha Jail in Patiala and fled with six prisoners, including Khalistan Liberation Front chief Harminder Mintoo, an accused in 10 cases.

The incident came two days after Home Minister Rajnath Singh asked

security forces to guard against attempts to disturb peace through "vicious" political campaign or by external extremist forces during the election process in Punjab and four other states.

"We have to keep strict vigil against external extremist elements who may try to create disturbance in Punjab. There have been increased activities of the Sikh terrorists in recent months.

"Similarly in Manipur, we have to ensure peace keeping in mind the ethnic divide. In Uttar Pradesh too, there may be attempts to disturb law and order through vicious political campaigning. We have to keep strict vigil and take proper steps to ensure peace during the election," he said at the DGPs conference in Hyderabad on Friday.

Mann Ki Baat: Mamata accuses Modi of misusing government machinery, Omar rejects cashless idea

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been exhorting the nation to adopt cashless economy to weed out corruption, but among the political class there are few takers.

New Delhi, Nov 27: Moments after Prime Minister Narendra Modi asked people to go cashless to root out corrupjails in the state.

An eyewitness told CNN- tion, West Bengal Chief News18, "At around 8 am, Minister Mamata ten armed men came to the Banerjee charged him of jail gate in a Verna and a 'misusing government Fortuner car. They were machinery'.

you have finished India's economy and growth.

We don't trust you or your mismatched wrong technology, which you are advertising for. We want technology and progress. But no section of society is to be left out and tortured while doing this."

Mamata Banerjee took to twitter to continue her opposition to demonetisation by launching a scathing attack on PM Modi. She said that the PM has converted the monthly radio programme Mann Ki Baat into Modi Ki Baat.

"Maan Ki Baat has now become Modi Ki Baat.

"The women of our country will give you a befitting reply. They are the mother of India.

They are the mother of all, Mr Today's PM," Mamata Banerjee said.

Just like Mamata Banerjee, former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah too

Khalistan Liberation Force (KLF) chief Harminder Singh alias Mintoo escaped from Nabha Jail in the wee hours on Sunday. (File photo) ment, Delhi Chief Minister and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal on Sunday said Sukhbir Singh Badal must take responsibility for jailbreak and the state's home minister must resign over the issue. oncerned over the jailbreak in Punjab, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh assured all help to Badal government. Rajnath said, "Punjab government will be provided every help from the Centre, this is a serious issue." Earlier, Union Home Secretary Rajiv Mehrishi had spoken to the Punjab DGP and asked him to ensure adequate security in all

wearing police uniforms and went inside the jail premises without any checking.

Later, they sprayed more than 100 rounds of ammunitions at jail security guards and managed to free Khalistan Liberation Force (KLO) chief Harminder Singh Mintoo and four others".

Mintoo, an earstwhile member of Babbar Khalsa, was Wanted in 10 terror related cases.

Mamata Banerjee Misusing government machinery. Instead of finding solutions to the suffering and pain of millions of people, he is do-

ing personal vendetta, personal publicity and business," Mamata said.

In a series of tweets, Mamata said, "Modiji,

rejected the idea of cashless economy in India.

Omar Abdullah termed the idea of a cashless economy as floated by Prime Minister Narendra as 'unrealistic'.

Reacting to Modi's 'Mann Ki Baat' radio address, Omar Abdullah said that internet connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir was unreliable.

"I'd love to move to a cashless economy but given the reliability of connectivity in Jammu and Kashmir and the absence of points of sale I fear I'd starve," Omar Abdullah tweeted.

(Agencies)

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 28

EDUCATION

P9 10 top tips for improving your Spoken English

Practising speaking is one of the most fun and rewarding parts of learning English. Once you can speak even a little English, there are loads of ways to improve your skills quickly while having tons of fun. Here are ten top tips for improving your spoken English and having a great time while you do it!

Speak, speak, speak!

Be confident and speak as often as possible to as many people as you possibly can! Do not be shy to make mistakes!

The more you practice the better and more confident you will become in your pronunciation and vocabulary. Remember, speaking is a skill like learning a musical instrument or new sport - the only way you can get good is to actually do

listen to the pronunciation of words. You can also learn new words and expressions this way. The more you listen, the more you learn! Try copying what you hear to practise your pronunciation and learn which words in a sentence are stressed.

it!

Use technology A smartphone can be a powerful tool for learning

languages. Use it to record yourself speaking then listen back to see how your English sounds to other people. Make the

most of all your favourite productivity apps to organise your practice time and make a note of all the new words you

learn.

Listen Listen to news bulletins and songs in English to

Read out loud Read the newspaper or a magazine out to yourself. You could even find a script for your favourite TV show and act it out! This is a great way to practise pronunciation because you only need to concentrate on making sure you English sounds great and don't need to worry about sentence structure or grammar.

Learn a new word every day Choose a word you would like to work on and

use practice it in different sentences. Use the word until you have learnt it and keep using it regularly.

Watch films Watch movies in English and pay attention to new vocabulary and pronunciation. Imitate the actors and have fun with it.

Make friends Make friends with English speakers or others learning to speak English and compare notes. Talk about things that you have learnt and exchange ideas.

Do interesting activities in English Take a cooking course in English or join a book club! Anything you enjoy doing, make sure you do it and communicate it in English. Using English to talk about things you

enjoy will make practising a positive experience.

Have a debate Debate all the topics that interest you with friends in English. Try to use as much vocabulary as you can to get your point across and listen to the other arguments carefully so you can argue against them effectively.

Use a dictionary Online dictionaries often have audio examples so you can check your pronunciation and there are lots of great dictionary apps that you can take everywhere with you on your smartphone.

Make sure not to become too reliant on these tools, though. Have a go at saying the words first then check afterwards to see if you were right!

5 Speaking Rules you need to know!

1. Don't study grammar too much This rule might sound strange to many ESL students, but it is one of the most important rules.

If you want to pass examinations, then study grammar. However, if you want to become fluent in English, then you should try to learn English without studying the grammar.

English grammar than I do. I can easily look up the definition and apply it, but I don't know it off the top of my head.

I often ask my native English friends some grammar questions, and only a few of them know the correct answer.

However, they are fluent in English and can read, speak, listen, and communicate Studying grammar will effectively. only slow you down and confuse you. You will Do you want to be able think about the rules to recite the definition of when creating sentences a causative verb, or do instead of naturally you want to be able to saying a sentence like a speak English fluently? native. Remember that 2. Learn and study only a small fraction of phrases English speakers know Many students learn more than 20% of all the vocabulary and try to put grammar rules. Many many words together to ESL students know create a proper more grammar than sentence. It amazes me native speakers. I can how many words some confidently say this with of my students know, but experience. I am a native they cannot create a English speaker, majored proper sentence. The in English Literature, reason is because they and have been teaching didn't study phrases.

English for more than 10 When children learn a years. However, many language, they learn both of my students know words and phrases more details about together. Likewise, you

need to study and learn phrases.

If you know 1000 words, you might not be able to say one correct sentence. But if you know 1 phrase, you can make hundreds of correct sentences. If you know 100 phrases, you will be surprised at how many correct sentences you will be able to say.

Finally, when you know only a 1000 phrases, you will be almost a fluent English speaker.

The English Speaking Basics section is a great example of making numerous sentences with a single phrase. So don't spend hours and hours learning many different words. Use that time to study phrases instead and you will be closer to English fluency.

Don't translate When you want to create an English sentence, do not translate the words from your Mother tongue. The order of words is probably

completely different and you will be both slow and incorrect by doing this.

Instead, learn phrases and sentences so you don't have to think about the words you are saying. It should be automatic.

Another problem with translating is that you will be trying to incorporate grammar rules that you have learned. Translating and thinking about the grammar to create English sentences is incorrect and should be avoided.

3. Reading and Listening is NOT enough. Practice Speaking what you hear!

Reading, listening, and speaking are the most important aspects of any language. The same is true for English.

However, speaking is the only requirement to be fluent. It is normal for babies and children to learn speaking first, become fluent, then start reading, then writing. So the natural order is listening, speaking, reading, then writing.

First Problem Isn't it strange that schools across the world teach reading first, then writing, then listening, and finally speaking?

Although it is different, the main reason is because when you learn a second language, you need to read material to understand and learn it.

So even though the natural order is listening, speaking, reading, then writing, the order for ESL students is reading, listening, speaking, then writing.

Second Problem The reason many people can read and listen is because that's all they practice. But in order to speak English fluently, you need to practice speaking. Don't stop at the listening portion, and when you study, don't just listen. Speak out loud the material you are listening to and practice what you hear. Practice speaking out loud until your mouth and brain can do it without any effort.

By doing so, you will be able to speak English fluently.

4. Submerge yourself Being able to speak a language is not related to how smart you are.

Anyone can learn how to speak any language. This is a proven fact by everyone in the world.

Everyone can speak at least one language.

Whether you are intelligent, or lacking some brain power, you

are able to speak one you can see, you can language. achieve results by changing what your This was achieved by surroundings are. being around that Submerge yourself in language at all times. In English and you will your country, you hear learn several times and speak your language faster. constantly. You will notice that many people TalkEnglish Offline who are good English Version is now ready for speakers are the ones download. In this who studied in an English package, you can utilize speaking school. They over 8000 audio files to can speak English not completely surround because they went to an yourself in English.

English speaking school, There are over 13.5 but because they had an hours of audio files that environment where they are not available in the can be around English web form.

All speaking people conversations and all constantly. sentences are included, so even if you don't There are also some have many English people who study abroad speaking friends, you and learn very little. That can constantly surround is because they went to yourself in English using an English speaking your MP3 player school, but found friends 5. Study correct from their own country material and didn't practice A common phrase that English. is incorrect is, "Practice makes perfect." This is You don't have to go far from the truth. anywhere to become a Practice only makes fluent English speaker. what you are practicing You only need to permanent. If you surround yourself with practice the incorrect English. You can do this sentence, you will have by making rules with perfected saying the your existing friends that sentence incorrectly. you will only speak Therefore, it is English. You can also important that you study carry around an iPod and material that is constantly listen to commonly used by most English sentences. As people.

Another problem I see is that many students study the news. However, the language they speak is more formal and the content they use is more political and not used in regular life. It is important to understand what they are saying, but this is more of an advanced lesson that should be studied after learning the fundamental basics of English.

Studying English with a friend who is not a native English speaker is both good and bad.

You should be aware of the pros and cons of speaking with a non native speaking friend.

Practicing with a non native person will give you practice. You can also motivate each other and point out basic mistakes. But you might pick up bad habits from one another if you are not sure about what are correct and incorrect sentences. So use these practice times as a time period to practice the correct material you studied. Not to learn how to say a sentence.

In short, study English material that you can trust, that is commonly used, and that is correct.

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 28

P10

INTERNATIONAL

Militants were Pakistan's opposition seeks to sever trade ties with India, demands response to 'aggression' along border planning embassy PTI Islamabad, Nov 27 : Cricketer-turned-politician Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreeki-Insaf has urged the government to immediately sever trade ties with India over the death of 13 people including three soldiers in alleged Indian firing along the Line of Control (LoC).

Shah Mehmood Qureshi, a senior leader of opposition party Pakistan Tehreek-eInsaf (PTI). ReutersShah Mehmood Qureshi, a senior leader of opposition party

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). Reuters "Indian forces are killing innocent civilians and our army personnel along the LoC but our prime minister is fondly eating bananas being imported from India.

It is high time we sever trade ties with India and unite on one platform to pat the enemy in the same coin," Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) Vice Chairman Shah Mehmood Qureshi said.

Qureshi said Defence Min-

Qureshi, at a public meeting in Chhachhro town, said that the PML-N government "had no courage to respond to Indian prime minister's bluff and called for immediately severing trade ties with India", Dawn reported.

ister Khawaja Asif, who should have been at the border to defend the coun-

7 dead, 1 missing as waves hit New Zealand fishing boat WELLINGTON, New Zealand, Nov 27 : Seven people were killed and another person was missing after a chartered fishing boat disappeared from view in large waves at the entrance to a harbor near Auckland, New Zealand authorities said.

The boat Francie was carrying 11 people when it got into trouble on Saturday afternoon in Kaipara Harbour.

Rescuers managed to pull three survivors from the water, who were taken to a hospital. A search for the missing person was continuing Sunday, said police Inspector Duncan Hall.

Crew members from the boat notified the coast guard that they were attempting to cross a sandbar at the entrance to the harbor at about 2 p.m., said Patrick Holmes, the chief executive of Coastguard New Zealand.

raised the alarm an hour later after the boat didn't report back and could no longer be reached on its marine radio or by mobile phone.

Other boats in the area reported to the coast guard that they could no longer see the boat, although he wasn't yet clear if it had sunk. An investigation was underway.

Waves at the sandbar were about four meters (13 feet) high at the time of the accident, Holmes said. Sandbars are formed by sand building up on the seafloor, something which can happen at harbor entrances where the ocean meets calmer harbor water.

"All sandbar crossings are dangerous. They shift with storms and tides, so the bars are not in exactly the same position," Holmes said. "Because it's a disturbance of the seafloor, the action of the waves becomes distorted and irregular."

He said the coast guard

Inspector Hall said rescuers recovered five bodies from the water soon after the accident. Another two bodies washed ashore at nearby beaches and were found early Sunday.

The Facebook page for Francie Charters says its boat Francie is licensed to carry up to 20 people with two crew members. It shows customers using fishing rods to catch snapper and other fish, and encountering dolphins.

election that has already been conceded, and the results of this election should be respected instead of being challenged and abused, which is exactly what Jill Stein is doing.”

While Trump has convincingly won the electoral college votes, the counting of votes has indicated that Clinton leads by more than two million popular votes.

The billionaire from New York, who continually claimed that the election was “rigged” before his victory, insisted in a statement that the results should be “respected, instead of being

challenged and abused”.

The president-elect alleged it was a way for Stein — who has raised USD 5.9 million toward a USD 7 million target for the recount push — to “fill her coffers with money”.

“The people have spoken and the election is over, as Hillary Clinton herself said on election night in addition to her conceding,” Trump said, a day after the Green Party candidate moved a petition for the recounting of votes in Wisconsin which was accepted by the State Election Commission.

On Saturday morning, the Hillary Clinton Campaign said that it is joining the Green Party in the recounting move. It said it will also support the recounting of votes in Michigan and Pennsylvania.

Trump said: “This is a scam by the Green Party for an

Turkey says 22 Syria rebels hurt in IS chemical attack Pro-Ankara fighters exposed to chemical gas after rocket attack, evacuated across border to Turkish town

“This recount is just a way for Jill Stein, who received less than one percent of the vote overall and wasn’t even on the ballot in many states, to fill her coffers with money, most of which she will never even spend on this ridiculous recount. All three states were won by large numbers of voters, especially Pennsylvania, which was won by more than 70,000 votes,” said the US president-elect.

A rebel fighter reacts as a landmine, planted by Islamic State jihadists, is exploded by his comrades in the village of Tilalayn on the western outskirts of the northern Syrian town of Dabiq, on November 25 ISTANBUL, Nov 27: Twenty-two pro-Ankara Syrian rebels were hit by a chemical gas attack from Islamic State (IS) jihadists in northern Syria, the Turkish army said on Sunday.

“After a rocket was fired by IS, 22 opposition members were observed to have been exposed in their eyes and bodies to chemical gas,” the general staff said in a statement, quoted by the staterun Anadolu news agency.

It said the attack happened in the area of the village of Khaliliya, east of Al Rai in northern Syria.

Turkish media said that the

The reports said that the Turkish emergency workers were equipped with special chemical suits to protect themselves. The Syrians were brought to the main hospital in Kilis where they are currently undergoing treatment.

Television pictures showed some of the Syrians being transferred on stretchers to the hospital, with the emergency workers dressed in full-body white protective clothing and gas masks.

The Turkish army is backing the Syrian fighters in an unprecedented incursion aimed at rooting out IS jihadists from the border area and also ensuring there is no Kurdish militia presence.

In a three-month operation, the rebels have so far captured the IS stronghold of Jarabulus, cleared IS from Al Rai and retaken the symbolically important town of Dabiq without much resistance.

With Turkish support, they are now pressing to take Al Bab from the jihadists in an advance that appears to be taking more time and encountering greater opposition.

Pakistan stops import of cotton from India amid tension ISLAMABAD, Nov 28: Pakistan has suspended the import of cotton and other agriculture commodities, including vegetables, from India due to rising tensions between the two countries along the LoC, a media report here said.

Officials of Department of Plant Protection (DPP) said that import of agri items from India through the Wagah border crossing and Karachi port and issuing permits for future imports has been halted, the Dawn The Green Party meanwhile dismissed Trump’s allega- reported. tions that it will not use the money raised for the purpose recounting of votes.

“For his information, this is all going into a dedicated and segregated account so that it can only be spent on the recount,” Stein told CNN in an interview.

Cotton importers and customs clearing agents claimed that the department had stopped the import of agriculture commodities from India without a warning or written order because of increase “He may be creating his in tensions across the own facts here as he’s been LoC. known to do some times in the past. He himself said it was a rigged election unless he won it,” she said.

affected Syrian fighters were brought over the frontier to the Turkish border town of Kilis by teams from Turkey’s AFAD emergencies agency.

Imran Shami, chief of DPP which is a subordinate department of the national food security and

research ministry, however sought to dispel the impression.

"We have stopped import of tomatoes and other fresh vegetables in order to protect our farmers.

We have enough tomato and other vegetables stocks, which we import from India only in case of shortages in the domestic market," he said.

The reason behind the "suspension" of cotton imports from India was, nevertheless, different, he said.

"No. We have not stopped cotton imports from India. It has just been halted over reports that the Indian exporters are not meeting our biosecurity conditions. We're looking into these reports and will lift restriction on cotton imports if our apprehensions are proved wrong," Shami said.

He said only those cotton consignments would be allowed to enter Pakistan through surface or sea routes where importers had already secured per-

attack: Indonesian police

The government had a weak foreign policy because of lack of a full-time foreign minister, he said.

Police said they were still trying to establish what happened to the boat and how its occupants ended up in the harbor, which is about 75 kilometers (47 miles) northwest of Auckland.

While Trump has convincingly won the electoral college votes, the counting of votes has indicated that Clinton leads by more than two million popular votes.

PTI Washington, Nov 28 : US president-elect Donald Trump has termed the Green party-initiated move to recount votes in the state of Wisconsin as a “scam”, asserting that “the people have spoken and the election is over.” The push to recount the votes was spearheaded by Green Party presidential nominee Jill Stein, who is also seeking recounts in Michigan and Pennsylvania. Trump won unexpected and narrow victories against Hillary Clinton in the November 8 presidential elections in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, with Michigan still too close to call.

He lashed out at the government for a lack of fulltime foreign minister who was badly needed at the moment to fight the Kashmir case on world forums.

On Friday, Qureshi said that Pakistan had yet to respond to Indian aggression along the LoC.

Eyewitnesses told Television New Zealand that rescuers in helicopters plucked the survivors from the water and placed them on a beach, where locals kept them warm until ambulances arrived.

Donald Trump slams recount move as ‘a scam’, says election is over

US President-elect Donald Trump

try, was defending Sharif in the Panamagate case in the apex court.

In Umerkot, he told journalists that despite Indian bombing along the LoC, the Sharif-led PML-N government had not broken trade ties with the "belligerent neighbour" and urgedthe UN to get its resolutions on Kashmir implemented, it re-

ported.

mits from his department and carried phyto-sanitary certificates.

"Our cotton consignments are not being allowed to enter Pakistan through Wagah and Karachi for reasons known to the ministry but cheaper, subsidised Indian yarn is being brought in without any let or hindrance. At least 11 trucks of Indian yarn entered Pakistan on Thursday when the department stopped cotton consignments from coming to this side of the border," a textile factory owner told Dawn.

He said the suspension of cotton import from India would create a huge problem for the textile exporters as the truncated domestic crop target of 11.25 million bales for this year appeared difficult if not impossible to meet.

"The industry requires 14 million bales. We will still be short by three million bales of cotton even if the crop target is achieved," he said.

Indonesians hold a rally outside the Myanmar embassy in Jakarta against the "ethnic cleansing" of Rohingya Muslims on Nov 25

JAKARTA, Nov 27 : Indonesian police arrested a third Islamic State-linked militant Sunday accused of plotting to bomb the Myanmar embassy in Jakarta, as anger grows at a violent military crackdown on Rohingya Muslims.

The militants -- all from a domestic cell affiliated with the Syria-based jihadist group -- had amassed enough explosives to create bombs more powerful than those used in the 2002 Bali bombings, which killed 202 people, police say.

"They were helping plan a bomb attack against parliament, the national police headquarters, the embassy of Myanmar and several television stations," national police spokesman Rikwanto said in a text message.

Anger is growing in Indonesia and other parts of Muslim world over what has been described as the "ethnic cleansing" of Rohingya in Myanmar's Rakhine state.

Refugees fleeing into Bangladesh say Myanmar's military has been leading a campaign of rape and murder against the homeless ethnic group.

Thousands of Muslims rallied in capitals across

Asia on Friday demanding an end to the violence.

In Indonesia, the world's largest Muslim-majority country, protesters urged their government to cut diplomatic ties with Yangon.

Indonesia's anti-terror unit Wednesday nabbed suspected bomb maker Rio Priatna Wibowo and seized a significant quantity of high-grade explosives from a laboratory west of the capital Jakarta.

His arrest led to the capture of two other suspected militants in different parts of the country, Rikwanto said Sunday.

Bahrain Agam was detained Saturday for allegedly purchasing the explosives while Saiful Bahri was arrested Sunday accused of helping assemble the bombs, said Rikwanto, who like many Indonesians goes by one name.

Indonesian police say it remains unclear when exactly the militants planned to carry out their assault, but that they had enough explosives to detonate a blast more than double that which levelled nightclubs in Bali in a fiery inferno.

All three were members of Jemaah Ansar Daulah, a local extremist outfit that has sworn allegiance to IS, Rikwanto said.

Demonetisation to have gains in long run: Chandrababu Naidu New Delhi, Nov 27: Demonetisation problems are temporary but the gains in the long run will be fruitful, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu said as he enlisted the steps taken by his government to help the people in this situation.

The Andhra government has adopted several innovative ways to solve the problems of the people and become a role model state in the country in cashless transactions, he said.

The steps taken by the state government include setting up of four committees to oversee cashless transactions, arrangement of 19,000 e-PoS (Point of Sales) machines involving students and self-help women's groups and starting a mobile application 'AP Purse'.

"The demonetisation problems are temporary but the gains in the long run will be fruitful," he said.

The Chief Minister urged the people to endure the currency crisis for some more time to come and asked them to face it in a challenging spirit.

To overcome the problems post scrapping of the high value currency of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000, the Andhra government is planning to distribute free mobile phones to people, particularly the economically-backward classes to undertake cashless transactions, Naidu said.

Naidu, who has been holding teleconferences with bankers and officials to ensure that problems of people are minimised, has announced the decision to set up four committees to oversee cashless transactions, Jan Dhan bank account and Rupay dealings and overall expenditure.

The state government is also planning to start 'AP Purse' to provide short term, middle term and long term benefits to the people.

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BUSINESS

Rs 32,631 cr deposited in post Jairam's barb: Jaitley defends RBI Guv Urjit Patel offices since demonetisation PTI New Delhi, Nov 27 : People have deposited a staggering Rs 32,631 crore in nearly 1.55 lakh post offices across the country following demonetisation of Rs 500/1000 currency notes.

The post offices have also exchanged about Rs 3,680 crore of old currency notes between November 10 and 24, Department of Posts Secretary B V Sudhakar told PTI. "From November 10 to November 24, we have exchanged 578 lakh notes of value of about Rs 3,680 crore. If you look at the deposits, 43.48 crore old Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes were accepted as deposits, and

Image for representational purpose their value is about Rs 32,631 crore," he said.

As many as 1.55 lakh post offices -- about 1.30 lakh in rural areas and the rest 25,000 in urban and semiurban areas -- are playing a

"prominent role" in the entire exercise, he added.

During the same period, Rs 3,583 crore was withdrawn from post offices, Sudhakar said.

Following demonetisation

of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes from midnight of November 8, people rushed to banks and post offices to deposit or exchange old currency notes. Serpentine queues were seen in front of banks, ATMs and post offices with people lining up to get valid currency notes.

Those without postal savings accounts were also permitted to exchange the old notes up to a certain limit in the post offices by producing their identity cards.

While the of a fortnight to exchange these currency notes over-the-counter at banks and post offices ended on November 24, the old notes can be deposited in bank accounts until December 30.

PTI New Delhi, Nov 27: Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Sunday came to the defence of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Urjit Patel in the wake of criticism by Congress leader Jairam Ramesh, saying it is an "unfair attack" and politicians should refrain from making comments on those who cannot defend themselves.

"An unfair attack by Jairam Ramesh on the RBI Governor.

Must politicians attack those who can't defend themselves in the same tone?" he said in a tweet.

In an article written in National Herald, Congress spokesperson Ramesh alleged that RBI was kept in the dark by the government about its

proval to the Prime Minister's demonetisation plan, then ostensibly RBI was confident of making currency notes available easily."

He complained that there are not enough notes in the system and this shortage can continue for at least a few more weeks, if not months.

Ramesh alleged that RBI was kept in the dark by the government about its surprise demonetisation move.

surprise demonetisation move.

"Urjit Patel is either guilty of misleading the nation about RBI's preparedness on demonetisation or has sacrificed the autonomy of RBI. Either way, he

should resign," Ramesh had said.

"RBI is the monetary authority of India and is solely responsible for making bank notes available to all residents of India. If RBI headed

by Patel gave its ap-

Questioning the RBI Governor's "stoic silence" through the entire currency crisis of the last two weeks, Ramesh said the central bank is independent and autonomous and needs to clarify on the current situation.

"How can the head of RBI that is solely responsible for the current currency crisis not be seen clarifying and assuring the nation amid this grave crisis?" he questioned.

RBI committed to easing honest "Demonetisation will AirAsia India mulls A320 citizens' pain at the earliest: Patel move India towards aircraft option for UDAN digital economy"

Urjit Patel PTI Mumbai, Nov 27: Breaking his silence over the demonetisation issue, RBI Governor Urjit Patel today said the central bank is monitoring the situation on a daily basis and taking all necessary actions to "ease the genuine pain of citizens" with a clear intent to normalise the things as early as possible.

Patel also said the RBI has announced an incremental CRR (Cash Reserve Ratio) of 100 per cent "because of the large increase in deposits of banks on account of the return of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes" and the decision would be reviewed immediately once the government issues adequate quantum of MSS (Market Stablisation Scheme) bonds which they have promised to do.

In an exclusive interview to PTI, Patel said the

situation arising out of the decision to withdraw Rs 500/1,000 notes is being monitored on a daily basis and the printing presses have started to rebalance the production of new notes towards Rs 100 and Rs 500 bills.

He also urged the people to start using cash substitutes like debit cards and digital wallets, saying it will make transactions cheaper and easier and in the long term, it will help India "leapfrog into a less cash-use economy at par with more developed nations."

"We are also urging banks to make a big push with PoS (Point of Sale) machines with traders so that debit card use becomes more prevalent," he said.

Giving details of the steps being taken by RBI, he said, "Both RBI and government have been getting the printing presses to work at capacity to get the new notes available to meet

demand.

"The RBI is interacting with the banks every day.

They are telling us that the situation is gradually easing. The queues in branches and ATMs are shorter and the markets are starting to function, and there are no reported shortages of daily items of consumption.

"Also, about 40-50,000 people were deployed to refit the ATMs. Currency is available and banks are working in a mission mode to lift currency and take them to their branches and ATMs. The staff members of all banks have worked very hard, and we all owe them our gratitude," Patel said.

"Having said that, it is important to regularly review the situation, and taking the required decisions to ease the genuine pain of citizens who are honest and who have been hurt. There are no precedents on this subject at this scale and we have to be reactive to the situation.

"People have asked why the new currency introduced was different in size and thickness from the old.

This is because the new currency has been designed to make it hard to counterfeit. When you are going to make a change of this magnitude, you need to get the best standards in place," Patel said.

This is the first-ever interview as RBI Governor by Patel, who is known to keep a low profile. .

PTI Washington, Nov 27 : The demonetisation move by the Indian government would reduce the role of blackmoney and will lead the country towards a digital economy but moving to a cashless system will take some time, a leading IndianAmerican entrepreneur has said.

"This is a massive step (towards fighting blackmoney and digital economy). The foundation of which was laid by Aadhar, Jan Dhan Yojana and direct benefit transfer," Venkatesh Shukla, a venture capitalist and president of TiE Silicon Valley.

"Those are the foundation that has already been laid.

And universal payment interface is another brilliant that the government of India is working on," Shukla told PTI. "I think, the move to cashless economy can't come soon to India. It is unfortunate that people are going through so much of a pain. But there is absolute no doubt that this is the right direction to go.

"The sooner the economy moves to a digital economy there will be less wastage, more productivity, more evolution and less of a black economy," Shukla said.

"It (moving towards a cash less economy) would take a while, but infrastructure is in place," he said in response to a question, adding Indian-American entrepreneurs are highly impressed by this move of the government.

"I have not run into a

single person who criticises this.

We are overwhelmingly in favour of this," he said.

"What is not to like about this," he questioned when asked about criticism to the demonetisation plan of the Indian Government.

"I am not the one who is suffering and I am not on the street (for changing / depositing money). But if you look at it from a strategic perspective... people who are outside India had complaint over the past 70 years that people just did not had the political will to do those things in India.

"Here comes a politician who first recognises what is the right thing to do and has the courage of conviction to pull it off," he said.

"His (Prime Minister Narendra Modi's) focus on startups as engine of job growth, unfortunately for India is 70 years late. But at least he started the process.

I wish the first prime minster of India had focused on entrepreneurs not with suspicion and distrust, but with confidence and trust," Shukla said.

The head of the Silicon Valley chapter of TiE said that "this incremental trend putting disincentive to the cash economy is the right thing to do."

Putting disincentives to use of cash in large transactions, political parties not accepting cash donations and rationalising this stamp duty non-sense for property transactions, rationalising tax structure to encourage people to be complaint would be helpful in fighting black economy.

PTI New Delhi, Nov 27 : Keen to expand its domestic presence, AirAsia India is evaluating the proposition of operating regional flights with A320 planes under the government's UDAN scheme.

The ambitious UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Naagrik) scheme aims to connect unserved and underserved airports in the country while participating airlines would get various incentives, including viability gap funding and other financial concessions.

AirAsia India, which currently has eight A320 planes, expects to have a fleet of 10 aircraft by end of this fiscal.

According to a senior airline official, options of participating in UDAN are being evaluated and a decision would be taken depending on the commercial viability of the regional routes.

"We are evaluating which routes can be served by A320. If it is viable, we will certainly look into it," the official told PTI. Manufactured by Airbus, A320s are single-aisle planes that can have up to

In the three months ended September 2016, the budget carrier saw its loss marginally narrow to Rs 62.18 crore from Rs 63.14 crore in the year-ago period.

180 seats depending on the configuration opted for by the carriers.

Fares would be capped at Rs 2,500 for one-hour flights under UDAN and the first flight under the scheme is expected to take off in January next year.

Along with increasing its fleet size to 10 planes, AirAsia India also expects to have a headcount of around 1,000 by the end of March next year.

In the three months ended September 2016, the budget carrier saw its loss marginally narrow to Rs 62.18 crore from Rs 63.14 crore in the year-ago period.

However, revenues in-

Cash deficit hits market hard, but many hope for better days

Jobs will be safe in MSME sector, govt assures workers Government today sought to soothe concerns of layoff in micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that employ 80 million people against the backdrop of demonetisation, saying the decision might cause initial problems but will not impact job scenario in the sector.

Lucknow, Nov 27 : Government today sought to soothe concerns of layoff in micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) that employ 80 million people against the backdrop of demonetisation, saying the decision might cause initial problems but will not impact job scenario in the sector.

“There can be initial problems due to demonetisation, but after the currency flow regularises, it will help the sector,” Union MSME Minister Kalraj Mishra told PTI in an interview here.

Asked about apprehension of the Federation of Indian Micro and Small and Medium Enterprises (FISME) of layoffs in the sector, he said, “We are trying to instil confidence in them and talks are on… Our officers are on the job and we will find out a solution.

There will be no impact in

Mishra’s assurance came amid fears that a number of the 80 million people working in MSMEs are likely to lose their jobs due to the cash crunch in the economy following the withdrawal of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes. (PTI)

the sector and outcome (of demonetisation) will be good.”

He added: “It’s a big decision of the Centre to curb blackmoney and people of the country despite initial problems are supporting the move.”

Mishra’s assurance came amid fears that a number of the 80 million people working in MSMEs are likely to

lose their jobs due to the cash crunch in the economy following the withdrawal of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes.

MSME companies are planning to take up the demonetisation issue with Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in their pre-budget meeting so that the Centre could review the situation immediately to ease cash

supply.

The MSME sector, which has already been hit by a slowdown in exports and costlier credit from banks, is feeling the biggest pinch of the cash squeeze.

Sources said several of these small units have no cash in hand and could resort to large-scale retrenchment.

The MSME sector, which transacts mostly in cash, accounts for about 20 per cent of GDP and 40 per cent of overall exports.

Paper mills, leather, apparel, re-rolling of steel mills, pottery, woollen and brass units are among those that have been severely affected after the note ban decision.

“SMEs are already struggling with multiple problems — there was cash crunch as banks were reluctant to lend and the cost of loans was high, exports have been down and even Brexit (Britain’s exit from the European Union) had its own

impact…,” said Anil Bhardwaj, General Secretary, Federation of Indian Micro and Small and Medium Enterprises (FISME).

“Now, with the announcement of the demonetisation drive, small businesses are left with very limited money and there could be many who may lose their jobs.”

The Reserve Bank of India has allowed small businesses to withdraw up to Rs 50,000 in cash every week from their overdraft and cash-credit accounts, besides current accounts.

However, the MSME units feel that the amount is “grossly insufficient”, especially since most transactions happen through cash.

The central bank has also given an additional 60-day repayment window for loans. It applies to dues payable between November 1 and December 31, 2016.

creased 31 per cent to Rs 175.11 crore in the latest September quarter. The same stood at Rs 132.95 crore in the same period a year ago.

AirAsia India, now a joint venture between Tatas and Malaysia's AirAsia Berhad, began operations in June 2014.

Tata Sons owns 49 per cent stake while two of the airline's directors -- S Ramadorai and R Venkataramanan -- have 2 per cent shareholding, and the remaining is with AirAsia Berhad.

Meanwhile, Malaysia's AirAsia Berhad has invested additional funds to the tune of Rs 115 crore in AirAsia India.

Image for representational purpose Mumbai, Nov 27 : The Centre's demonetisation move has hit various businesses, with some seeing a drop of nearly 50 per cent in sales, according to experts.

"Not only the businesses in the financial capital Mumbai and neighbouring Navi Mumbai and Thane, there is steep drop of 50 per cent in all businesses of fruits, vegetable, food grains, dry fruits due the cash flow crisis," said Sanjay Pansare, a fruit trader and former director of Navi Mumbai APMC, the biggest wholesale market of the state.

"Vegetables are perishing.

We are unable to pay cash to truckers who normally charge up to Rs 1 lakh for transporting apples from Kashmir to Mumbai and

they are not accepting cheque. Earlier, we would get 325 trucks of fruits everyday which has reduced to 175 trucks per day."

Not just wholesalers, but retailers and small traders are facing taxing times though they are still supportive of the government's demone tisation move.

Mohammad Bollar, who runs a small shop of leather products in Fort of South Mumbai, said, "No matter our daily business has shrunk up to 25 per cent, the most important thing is this will subsequently clean the market and in coming days, customers would have market of fair pricing."

Chamber of Associations of Maharashtra Industry

and Trade (CAMIT) Chairman Mohan Gurnani said, "The business and other transaction has been reduced up to 50 per cent.

Transactions from food grains to metals are very low... I think it would take another one week to get everything streamlined."

According to Federation of Associations of Maharashtra (FAM), the M u m b a i - b a s e d organisation of 750 smallscale and trade and service providers associations, "the panic is going to be there" for one or two months, but it would turn out to be a game-changer in future.

FAM president Vinesh Mehta told PTI, "This pragmatic step is creating a sense of panic among the public, that is why every transaction and business has gone down 20 per cent or more. But it is more important that when this phase gets over, entire country would reap the benefit out of it."

According to a dealer at Manish market in South Mumbai, people are facing difficulties in getting money for marriages and other occasions, sale of old items at online marketplaces has reduced to 10 per cent of what it was earlier even as the sale of digital instruments, including mobile phones, has also been hit hard since November 9.

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Marcelinho stars in Delhi’s 5-1 rout of Goa India have the advantage: Pujara Match Awards Club award: Delhi Dynamos FC

Fittest Player of the Match: Marcos Tebar

Winning Pass of the Match: Florent Malouda

Swift Moment of the Match: Marcelinho

ISL Emerging Player of the Match: Sahil Tavora Hero of the Match: Marcelinho Marcelinho stars in Delhi’s 5-1 rout of Goa and steadied himself before unleashing a thunderous shot from distance that kissed the inside of the post before finding its way into the back of the net.

Marcelinho continued wreaking havoc on Goa’s defence and provided the assist for Delhi’s third goal. The Brazilian picked up the ball near the halfway line before driving at Goa defence and playing Gadze through on goal.

The Ghanaian beat Kattimani at his near post with a clinical finish to make it 3-1.

Marcelinho then went on to complete his hat-trick in the 56th minute after controlling a long ball expertly before turning Debabrata Roy inside out and slotting it past Kattimani with his right foot for Delhi’s fourth of the night.

The Lions made it 5-1 a

minute later with Gadze scoring his second after controlling Marcos Tebar’s ball and hustling past Goa’s defence to finish with poise and elegance for his fifth goal of the season. Delhi maintained their stranglehold on the game in the last 30 minutes of the match as Goa struggled to get on the ball.

Cesar had an opportunity to pull one back for Goa 10 minutes from time when the Gaurs were awarded a direct free-kick in a threatening area.

Cesar’s shot though failed to test Poirei, who was a spectator for much of the second half. Kean Lewis could have made it 6-1 late in the game but his attempt trickled wide of goal as Delhi maintained their unbeaten record at home this year with their biggest win of the season.

New Delhi, Nov 27 : Delhi Dynamos FC dished out a 5-1 humbling to FC Goa in front of over 18,000 fans in their 2016 Hero Indian Super League encounter at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on Sunday evening.

Fulganco Cardozo gave Goa the lead in the 31st minute but Marcelinho cancelled out his strike seven minutes later. The second half turned out to be the Marcelinho show as he scored three minutes after the restart before setting up Richard Gadze for his first goal in the 51stminute.

Marcelinho completed his hat-trick in the 56th minute with Gadze bagging his brace a minute later.

Delhi registered the first shot of the game on tar-

get in the eighth minute when Marcelinho played Gadze in on goal. The Ghanaian shot at goal but Raju Gaikwad managed to get a block in for Goa and thwarted the danger.

Marcelinho then weaved his magic a minute later as he danced past Goa’s backline effortlessly before shooting into the side-netting.

Goa’s first shot on target came in the 21st minute after Sahil Tavora ran at the Dynamos’ defence before shooting with his left foot and forcing Soram Poirei into a save. They took the lead 10 minutes later when Julio Cesar went in on goal and forced Poirei off his line.

The Brazilian rounded Poirei before getting his shot away but the Delhi custodian managed to

Australia 27-0 at tea, chasing 127 to win 3rd Test

Sindhu loses in final, ends runner-up in Hong Kong

AFP Adelaide , Nov 27: Australia made a steady start as they chased 127 runs to win the day-night third Test after dismissing South Africa early on the fourth day at the Adelaide Oval on Sunday.

At the tea break, the Australians were 27 without loss and 100 runs away from victory with David Warner on 20 and newcomer Matt Renshaw three not out.

The South Africans thought they had taken the wicket of Renshaw in the second over when they claimed a slips catch by Hashim Amla off Vernon Philander.

But umpire Richard Kettleborough was unmoved and a review showed no contact with Renshaw's bat.

It was the ninth review in this series involving Englishman Kettleborough, who has a 100 percent success rate.

South Africa will be hoping to repeat their predecessors' famous five-run victory in Sydney 22 years ago when they bowled out Australia for 111.

The Proteas, who thrashed Australia in the first two Tests to claim a third consecutive series Down Under, added 56 runs to their overnight lead before they were dismissed for 250 with opener Stephen Cook scoring a defiant century.

Cook raised his second Test century and first against Australia with a pull through square leg for four off Josh Hazlewood.

It was a big finish to an underwhelming series for Cook, who had scores of 0, 12, 23 and 40 in his other innings before his timely ton off 235 balls.

Cook was the last man out when he was bowled by Mitchell Starc 45 minutes before the tea break.

PTI Kowloon (Hong Kong), Nov 27: Olympic silver-medallist P V Sindhu's quest for a second successive women's singles title ended in disappointment after she went down in straight games to Chinese Taipei's Tai Tzu Ying in the Hong Kong Open Super Series final here on Sunday.

The Indian lost 15-21 17-21 in a clash which lasted 41 minutes. It was sweet revenge for Tzu Ying, who had lost to Sindhu most recently in the Rio Olympic Games. She now leads 5-3 in the head-tohead record against the Indian.

World No. 3 and fourth seed Tzu Ying was in command of the match from the first game

get a touch on the ball.

However, Cardozo followed up on the rebound to tap into an open net from inside the six-yard box and make it 1-0 for the visitors.

Delhi responded immediately and forced Laxmikanth Kattimani into two saves in quick succession in the 33rd minute courtesy of long range efforts from Gadze and Marcelinho. They were level five minutes later after a smart freekick by Florent Malouda put Marcelinho clear of Goa’s defence and the Brazilian finished emphatically to make it 1-1 going into the break.

Delhi took the lead three minutes after the restart with a jaw-dropping strike from distance by Marcelinho. The Brazilian controlled a loose ball

P V Sindhu itself and produced a near-perfect all-round performance to be ahead 18-11.

She maintained the lead and grabbed the opening game without much of a trouble. The Indian, on the other hand, was

found wanting in her net-play against a swift-moving rival.

The second game was fought on a more even keel with Sindhu stepping it up slightly but once again she struggled to match the pace and range of Tzu Ying's

stroke-play.

Tzu Ying's ability to retrieve almost everything that Sindhu threw at her stood out. The Taipei girl's deft use of her wrist to control her shots was also admirable.

However, Sindhu did not let Tzu Ying to simply run away and went neck-and-neck till 10-10.

The Indian took the lead at 1110 when Tzu Ying mishit a smash which landed outside.

But Tzu Ying drew level and took the lead soon after the lemon break.

The Indian's much-admired never-say-die spirit kept her afloat for a couple of more points but her inability to break free proved to be the difference.

India bag bronze at Four Nations Invitational hockey PTI Melbourne, Nov 27: India put up a dominating performance to beat Malaysia 4-1 in the bronze medal play off match on Sunday and finish at the third spot in the Four Nations Invitational Tournament here.

The Indians managed to control the proceedings from start to finish, scoring twice in the final quarter to post a much deserved victory.

Shrugging off Saturday's disappointment, India were looking to strike and consolidate early to avoid any pressure from the Malaysians.

They started off with several quick turnovers and passes, before scoring as early as in the second minute of play.

Birendra Lakra picked up the ball near centre field and drove his shot diagonally into the circle. The cross evaded everyone, before falling to Akashdeep Singh lurking at the far post.

Akashdeep showed great

awareness and superb skill to deflect the ball in and give India the lead.

India kept control throughout the quarter and had several more chances, most notably with a flurry of four consecutive Penalty Corners right at the death, but the Malaysians defended stoutly to go into the first break down by one goal.

In the second quarter, India forward Affan Yousuf came closest to scoring a goal, expertly steering past three Malaysian defenders before unleashing a reverse hit towards the goal. However, Malaysia's goalkeeper Kumar Subramiam was up to the challenge as he put it away to deny India a goal.

Malaysia picked up the pace in the final minutes of the second quarter but despite several circle penetrations, they failed to create any real chances.

The teams went into half time separated by the single goal scored by India.

The game opened up more in the third quarter as Malaysia chased the game while India were happy to sit back and work on the counter. Despite several penetrations, neither team created threatening opportunities almost till the end of the 3rd quarter.

In the final minute though, VR Raghunath capitalised on a pair of PCs to convert one and extend India's lead.

Malaysia hit back almost from the restart, catching India's defence unaware as Joel van Huizen scored a goal to take them into the final break 1-2.

India kept up the pressure in the final quarter, desperate not to repeat the mistakes of Saturday.

They constantly pressed high and won several turnovers.

Akashdeep was at the thick of things, first getting away a smart shot from inside the circle which was parried away by Subramiam. Soon after though, he again dribbled away from Malaysia's defence to cut back a pass to Talwinder Singh, whose first time chip deflection

HIGHLIGHTS India controlled the proceedings from start to finish, scoring twice in the final quarter Joel van Huizen scored a goal to take them into the final break 1-2 Rupinder slotted the ball to the bottom right corner to eventually help India seal the bronze medal beat the goalkeeper to give India their third goal of the game.

With India in complete control and adamant to not let Malaysia get back into the match, Rupinder Pal Singh netted the ball once again in the 58th minute through a PC. Rupinder made no mistake in slotting the ball to the bottom right corner to eventually help India bag the bronze medal.

IANS Mohali, Nov 27 : England may have claimed several crucial wickets in the post-tea session, but Cheteshwar Pujara still feels that India have the advantage at the end of the second day of the third cricket Test here on Sunday. India were sailing along in their first innings, posting 148/2 by tea with Pujara and Indian skipper Virat Kohli batting comfortably to post a 75run partnership. But the visitors hit back in the final session of the day, clinching four wickets before the hosts rode on some aggressive batting

by Ravichandran Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja to post 271/6 at stumps.

England's first innings had ended on 283 runs early in the morning session. With Ashwin completing his half-century and Jadeja also seemingly in good form, Pujara asserted that the Indians were well poised to clinch a decisive advantage on the third day. "We have batted really well and we have an advantage because both our all-rounders are playing. So, probably the first session will be really crucial for us.

But our game plan will be

really simple," he said.

"We will be looking to get a lead of around 75 to 100 runs. If they (Ashwin and Jadeja) continue batting then you never know.

Both of them can bat. As we saw in the last game Jayant Yadav can also bat," Pujara told the media at the end of the day's play. "So our lower order has been contributing in all the Test matches. So we expect them to contribute tomorrow as well." The 28-year-old right-hander was also pleased with the way he and Kohli had batted during the session, asserting that the England bowlers bowled a negative line to frustrate them. "We were not struggling. I felt that the line that they were bowling was a bit negative. But I still feel that the way we batted and showed character. We were leaving the balls outside the off-stump and we built a partnership which was really crucial for the team." "I think the second session was good for us.

I won't say they had an advantage because the line that they were bowling was slightly negative," Pujara said.

"Everyone has their own game plan and I don't

think that there was anything wrong with the way we batted. We stuck to our plans. Obviously the last session where lost many wickets which we did not want to, but obviously things happen." "But we recovered well from that. We have been leaving the balls outside the off-stump, not just in this Test match but in the past as well as part of a clear game plan," he added. The Saurashtra batsman also praised wicketkeeperbatsman Parthiv Patel who made a comeback to international cricket after a gap of several years. Patel opened the batting with Murali Vijay and did well to post 42 runs off 85 deliveries with six hits to the fence.

"Parthiv has been a good batsman. The kind of runs he has scored in first class cricket, we could see his confidence in this game," Pujara said. "Another thing is he has got the experience playing a lot of first class cricket and he has played Test cricket at the age of 17 so probably he has matured now and the kind of form he has we hope he will continue batting well even in the second innings."

Indian eves lose series after 1-3 defeat in decisive match PTI Melbourne, Nov 27: The Indian women hockey team ended their Australian tour with a 1-3 defeat in the third and final match as they lost the series 1-2 at the State Netball & Hockey Centre, here today.

With the series level at one game apiece, the Indian eves put their best foot forward early on, as Nikki Pradhan, Deep Grace Ekka, and goalkeeper Rajani Etimarpu successfully foiled attempts by the Australians to keep the score line at 0-0 going into the second quarter.

The Indian eves were quick to strike in the second quarter, as Deepika and Rani combined to display some remarkable stick work, allowing Vandana Katariya to get an easy deflection into the goal in the 17th minute.

Deepika was in action again, preventing Kalindi Commerford from scoring Australia's first goal. An unfortunate on-field collision moments later resulted in Captain Vandana being ruled out for the remainder of the game.

India maintained their 1-0 lead going into halftime as the Hockeyroos could not convert three successive penalty corners.

The Indian eves earned four successive PCs in the third quarter but were unable to convert any even as Nikki and goalkeeper Etimarpu were kept busy by the Australian frontline.

India had a bit of luck soon after as a powerful strike

by Commerford ricocheted off the goalpost followed by an agile save from Etimarpu to prevent a deflection from sneaking past her.

Australia were back in the hunt again, as they earned two penalty corners and Brooke Peris' 39th minute PC conversion saw the Hockeyroos draw level with India. The hosts earned two more PCs, and Gabi Nance successfully converted one in the 41st minute to give Australia a 2-1 lead going into the final quarter.

The Indian eves stepped up their game in the final fifteen minutes, attacking the Australian defence as they searched for an equaliser.

However, the Hockeyroos continued to charge at the Indian backline, with Kathryn Slattery and Murphy Allendorf looking to increase the lead.

Sunita Lakra and Deep Grace Ekka rose to the occasion, denying the Hockeyroos a third goal until the dying moments of the match. However, goalkeeper Etimarpu, who has been brilliant in this series, was outdone by a firm hit from Jordyn Holzberger that saw Australia increase the deficit to 3-1. Although Deepika put up a brave fight towards the end, Australia went on to win the match and the series 2-1.

India's Deepika was adjudged the Player of the Tournament for her stellar performance in the series.

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Editor: Prahlad Hammey

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