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ASSENG/2015/64205

PAGE 12

Vol. 1

Issue 342

Dibrugarh, Saturday, May 21, 2016

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Pages- 12

PAGE 11

Chief Minister Pul on his maiden Sonowal’s swearing-in as visit to Tezu insists officials to make Lohit Bridge operational by Oct 1 Assam CM on May 24 Gogoi accepts the defeat and wishes Sonowal A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, May 20

Chief Minister Kalikho Pul today landed here to a rousing welcome by various cultural troupes represented by different communities exhibiting the multicultural face of the town.

Soon after the landing, the Chief Minister was briefed about the work status of Tezu airport.

The only civilian airport in Arunachal, its runway, terminal bulding and air traffic control tower was completed in 2014.

The airport when completed can handle ATR 72 type of aircraft, and would be made operational

by June this year, informed the officials.

The Chief Minister was also accorded a rousing reception by the bazaar committee on enroute to circuit house, where he unveiled the “Swachh Lohit, Swasthya Lohit” campaign, organized by the Lohit deputy commissioner.

superintendent of police, which was inaugurated by Mechuka MLA Pasang Dorjee Sona. A ribbon cutting ceremony followed, which was graced by Parliamentary Secretary for home Pakgna Bage.

The campaign also has presence in social media, with the organizer using the platform to spread the message of cleanliness, informed deputy commissioner Danish Ashraf.

Continuing with his surprise inspection, the Chief Minister went round the building to check for facilities are in place and in order. SP Isaac Pertin accompanied the Chief Minister during his inspection round.

Parliamentary Secretary for environment and forest CT Mein, who was part of today’s Chief Minister’s maiden visit here inaugurated the newly constructed building of “Urban Development Working Women Hostel”.

After the inauguration, the Chief Minister inspected the facilities in the building to check for water and toilet conditions.

Mukto MLA Pema Khandu who was also part of the Chief Minister’s entourage, inaugurated the newly constructed building of “Alternate Dispute Resolution (ADR)” centre at Tezu.

The team was accorded warm reception at the new building of

ET CAPSULES

ULFA (I) Cadre apprehended Margherita, May 20: One hard core dreaded ULFA (I) Cadre was apprehended by 14th Assam Rifles at Manmao Changlang District of Arunachal Pradesh on three days ago. The ULFA (I) Cadre has been identified as Hemanta Rajkhowa. One M 81 Rifle, 160 ammunitions and two Grenades were recovered from the apprehended ULFA (I) cadre possession.

(Correspondent)

Infant killed by mother Golaghat, May 20: A sensational incident of inhuman and barbaric act has shocked the people of Golaghat. A 13 days old infant was killed by its own mother and grandmother because the infant was a girl. According to the report an employee at Kushal Konwar Civil Hospital in Golaghat Aurindom Bora had lodged a complaint against his wife Bandana Das and his mother in law Benu Das for allegedly killing his 13 days old daughter on Thursday night at Bengenakhowa in Golaghat. Aurindom Bora alleged that his wife and mother in law were not happy with the child as it was a girl child. So they killed the infant while he was out of the house.

Police nabbed both the ladies today. It was quite surprising to see the kills mother who had not a single sign of guilt or mourn on her face.

(Correspondent)

cmyk

Arunachal CM Kalikho Pul on his maiden visit to Tezu

Further the team on their visit to general hospital was accorded warm welcome by all medical officials, staffs, nurses, Asha workers etc. Tirong Aboh, MLA, Khonsa West inaugurated the new OPD and casualty block, while WRD parliamentary secretary Gum Tayeng initiated the ribbon cutting ceremony.

Tezu MLA Dr Mohesh Chai apprised the Chief Minister about additional funds requirement for the OPD block to make it fully functional.

The CM with his team undertook inspection of the district hospital, its OPD facilities, casualty room, solar battery room, operation theatre and the doctor duty room. He asked the hospital authorities to

conduct regular social service in hospital premises to keep it clean.

The Chief Minister also visited the patients admitted in the hospital and enquired on their health conditions. Wishing them early recovery, the CM gifted all the patients a packet of fruits as token of love.

Further the CM inspected the kitchen and storeroom and found it to be in dilapidated condition.

He asked the authority to submit inventory and proposals to meet up any shortages.

The Chief Minister visited the 2.1 km long Lohit bridge being constructed by Navayuga, which has been pending for several years despite the company issuing its own completion date.

The CM directed the company officials to increase manpower to speed up construction work.

Once the bridge is completed, it will be of great relief to people of Tezu for faster road connectivity to Tinsukia as it is the lifeline of the area, said the CM. Navayuga officials assured the CM that the work would be completed by September 30 this year. The Chief Minister insisted

that by October 1, the bridge should be open for traffic with or without any formal opening ceremony of the bridge. He also directed the district administration to monitor the work progress so that the company does not fail to meet the deadline.

The Chief Minister later in the day inaugurated Angel house, developed by Brahma Kumaris, Tezu in presence of Rajyogini Didi Satyawati Ji, Director, Brahma Kumaris.

Earlier, before landing in Tezu, the Chief Minister who was accompanied by Power Minister TN Thongdok, WRD Minister Kamlung Mossang, Tax and Excise parliamentary secretary Zingnu Namchoo, Aalo MLA Jarkar Gamlin and Commissioner finance Ashish Kundra made an aerial survey of the flood affected areas in eastern Arunachal districts.

The Chief Minister took survey of the flood-hit areas in Pasighat, Dambuk, Roing, Tezu, Chowkham, Namsai and Changlang. He also flew round the namdapha national park to asses the flood damage and the human encroachment due to migration induced by natural disasters.

Routed from his throne after three consecutive terms, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi has submitted his resignation to Assam Governor P.B. Acharya this evening, thereby vacating the top post for BJP's Sarbhanand Sonowal. Prior to his resignation, Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today held the last cabinet meeting of the present government. The cabinet meet was held at the chief minister’s official residence at Koinadhora in Guwahati. Gogoi on Thursday said he accepts the defeat in the Assembly polls with all humbleness and congratulated BJP leader

Sonowal's swearing-in ceremony on May 24 will be attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi besides other chief ministers of the BJP-ruled states. The oath-taking ceremony will be held at Khanapara field in Guwahati, sources said.

Sarbananda Sonowal Sarbananda Sonowal and his party for the victory.

Sonowal, who is currently Union Sports Minister, will head his party's first government in Assam, ending 15 years in office for 81-year-old Gogoi.

The BJP and its allies won 86 seats in the 126-seat Assam Assembly.This is for the first time that the BJP could form a government on its own in the country's northeastern region.

BJP president Amit Shah and

Prime Minister Narendra Modi are likely to attend the event of swearing-in ceremony, Himanta Biswa Sharma said.

BJP sources said Sonowal and party leader Himanta Biswa Sarma as well as all the BJP Lok Sabha MPs from Assam will leave for New Delhi on Friday evening. Sonowal is likely to meet Modi and resign as a central minister.

The BJP on Friday held a meeting of all its legislators here.

During the election campaign, the BJP had pledged to protect the "Assamese identity" in the face of unabated illegal infiltration from Bangladesh.

(With inputs from ANI)

BJP won Assam election due to false propaganda: Ripun Bora A Staff Reporter Guwahati, May 20

Holding the defeat of Congress in Assam as collective failure of its functionaries, vice president of the party's state unit today alleged that BJP and its allies won the polls on "false propaganda of identity crisis".

"We accept the humiliating defeat of our party. It is a collective failure from leaders to grass-root workers. All are responsible for this," Assam Pradesh Congress Committee Vice President Ripun Bora said at a press conference here.

The party's Rajya Sabha member alleged that the root cause of Congress' "worst performance since Independence

in Assam" is "false propaganda"

by BJP and its allies.

"They created an atmosphere that identity of Assamese people and Hindus are at stake and campaigned in the same manner.

This polarised people in favour of BJP," Bora said.

He said the party and its workers failed to convey to the people the good works done by its government in the last 15 years which resulted in the defeat.

"In the days to come, we will introspect our defects at grassroot level and rectify those. We will go to the people more in the future. As of now, we will act as responsible opposition," said Bora.

BJP came to power at the Centre in 2014 by "false promises" like depositing Rs 15

Fogging drive; Pasighat gears up for dengue preventive measures was launched from 12th May last with only a day gap on 15th May for being the holiday of ‘Solung Etor’, are continuing after covering various locations like Gumin Nagar areas, Sawmil areas, Main market, APP colony, Upper and Lower Baskata, SS Mission Road, Leprosy colony, PI Line, Jarku and Napit village.

Areas like IGJ Govt. Hr. Sec. School, DST colony, College of Horticulture & Forestry, Officer Colony, Forest Colony,

Spl Correspondent Pasighat, May 20

Taking into consideration that Pasighat township was in the news for a record highest number of dengue positive last year with 1907 detected cases out of total 6614 tested, fogging drive has been intensified in advance this time around after certain source reduction activities were carried out in the municipality areas so as to contain possible dengue outbreak this year too.

The fogging drive which

Atul Bora lakh in everyone's bank account, which all believed and voted for them, he alleged, adding, "Now nobody believes in Modi and his promises. The same will happen to the BJP in Assam in future."

Congress will closely watch how BJP fulfils its poll promises like providing 25 lakh jobs, giving salaries to government staff on time amidst financial constraints and solving the ageold illegal immigration issue, Bora said.

When asked whether popularity of Congress is declining, he claimed that vote share of the party has increased since 2014.

"In 2014 Lok Sabha polls, Congress had a vote share of 29.6 per cent. This time it stood at 31.1 per cent. On the other hand, BJP's vote share declined to 29.4 per cent from 36.5 per cent," Bora said.

"We will now prepare for 2019 Lok Sabha polls and form government at the Centre under the leadership of Sonia Gandhi and Rahul Gandhi," he said.

Murder or suicide yet to be confirmed: SP

Contd. on Page 3

Members of youth organisations tried to blackmail sweet shop owner in Dibrugarh A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, May 20

Moreover there was no expiry date mentioned in the product.

Members of the Hindu Jagran Manch and Banjrang Dal today barged into a Dibrugarh-based MB’s Sweet and snacks Shop and forcefully pulled down the shutter of the shop closing it for two hours.

According to source, an activist of Hindu Jagran Manch has found that the ice cream he bought from the shop have a price tag of Rs 40 whereas in some other similar product the tag displayed was Rs 15.

He then reportedly informed other members of the organization, Hindu Jagran Manch who later assembled in front of the shop and started shouting slogans. “One of the members among them tried to solve the issue amicably but others wanted to file a case against the shop,’’ said an eye witness.

Eye witnesses have informed that members of

some other local organizations also arrived and started negotiating with the shop owner that if he doesn’t give them money they would lodge a case against him.

On the other hand, Bhaijan alias Nazir Hussain of the All Assam Muslim Yuva Parishad (Pragotishil) who got involved asked media not to published the news and in return he said he would share the amount received from the owner of the sweet shop.

Contd. on Page 4

Body of a young sub-inspector recovered on Rangajan Bridge ET Correspondent Tinsukia, May 20

be pre-mature to comment anything at this moment, he added.

A day after the result of the assembly elections were declared, a bullet-ridden dead body of a young sub inspector was recovered on Rangajan Bridge at Motapung under Bar euro police station in Tinsukia district on Friday. The deceased SI has been identified as Kusum Ranjan Nath, who had reported Bar euro police station to join duty just a day before.

Talking to ET, superintendent of Tinsukia police Mugdha Jyoti Mahanto said, police is investigating both the angles that of murder and suicide. However, it will

Mahanto said, police has already begun investigations and are waiting forensic and ballistic report which will throw more light on the incident. It is yet to be ascertained whether the bullet was fired from his service revolver, SP Mahanto said in response to a question. He added, a case has been registered and we will soon reach to the bottom of the incident.

It may be mentioned that Kusum Ranjan Nath had joined Barekuri police station yesterday and was to be assigned charge

cmyk

ET Bureau Tezu May 20

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 21

PAGE 2 ASTRO FOR YOU Aries If you’re looking to get married, buy the ring today. But before you take the leap, weigh all the pros and cons carefully. All in all, this may be a day filled with activities related to your relationship and by the time the day ends, you may be on cloud nine!

Taurus You will be feeling listless, lazy and out of sorts today, and will tend to ignore and neglect important tasks scheduled for the day. Guard against this tendency as you could miss out on opportunities that others could then benefit from. That way, you will surely lose out professionally, particularly if you are in business. This aside, the day promises to be an eventful and fruitful one.

Gemini While today will be a day filled with a lot of festivity, you still need to guard against getting carried away. You will spend the day socialising with friends and family. You might end up neglecting your household duties in organizing some function or picnic.

Cancer You are known for your ability to set the ball rolling. Once you set your mind to do something, it is generally considered done by your peers. Today, you are eyeing a few accomplishments on the monetary front. Most part of your day will go in dealing with financial transactions, and importing and exporting goods.

Leo Guides help other people choose the right path in life and to select the correct alternatives.

It is a good day for those who are in the teaching or coaching professions. It is also a progressive day for those working in MNC’s.

Virgo You will start off on a long, arduous path to success. Some tough work will play a vital role in your progress. Don’t cut corners, and your labours will pay rich dividends and you will reap due rewards. Some opportunities are best left alone as they involve too much risk.

Libra Today will be a lucky day for you. You may receive some financial gain. There will be some good news about your children’s progress. This is the right time to invest in business.

For financial investors and share brokers this period is beneficial, so make the most of it.

Scorpio Your energy levels are high as you as you gear up for new events. However, there are chances that these events may not meet your expectations. But, don’t lose hope and get disappointed. Keep your spirits high. Implement the first lesson learnt in school: try & try till you succeed!

Sagittarius Lady luck is all smiles for you today. Suddenly, you feel like multi-tasking and becoming a jack of all. This is likely to keep you busy, almost throughout the day. If need be, your colleagues and peers will lend a helping hand.

Capricorn You are in hot water, but do not lose hope during these turbulent times. Maintain a calm head over your shoulders and deal with the problems. Also, do not jump to conclusions or be argumentative with the people around you, as you may end up being at the losing end.

Aquarius You have already fulfilled your short-term objectives. But you are ambitious, and straightaway begin setting your long-term goals. But all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.

Leisure time with family will rejuvenate and prepare you for a better stint at work.

Pisces A day of mixed fortunes awaits you, where taking risks could prove to be your undoing, or provide you with handsome returns. This is because you could come out on top by treading cautiously, but uncalculated risks will probably throw your calculations out of gear. Your success rate is unlikely to be too high; hence it may be a tough day for you. However, it will end on a promising note.

PRASAR BHARATI (India's Public Service Broadcaster) ALL INDIA RADIO : DIBRUGARH (M.W.529.1m/KHz567 F.M. 101.30 MHz) Phone No.-03732325456 E-mail -dibrugarh@air.org.in Facebook Page-All India Radio Dibrugarh Programme Highlights 21-5-16 (SATURDAY) 5-35 A.M-Bhaktigeeti (Devotional Songs) 6-10 A.M-Swasthya Charcha (Health Programme) 6-30 A.M-Bidyarthir Anusthan 7-15 A.M-Aajir Dinto (Morning Information Service) 7-30 A.M-Geetanjali (Assamese Modern Songs) 8-35 A.M-Surar Panchoi (Composite Programme of Assamese Film Songs) 9-05 A.M- Antara (Composite Programme of Hindi Film Songs) 12-30 P.M-Hindi Film Songs 1-50 P.M-Adhunik Geet 2-30 P.M-Western Music 3-45 P.M-Programme in Miju Mishmi 4-05 P.M-Programme in Khamti 4-25 P.M-Programme in Wancho 4-45 P.M-News for Arunachal Pradesh 5-00 P.M-Programme in Idu 5-20 P.M-Programme in Tangsa 5-40 P.M-Programme in Nocte 6-15 P.M-Ganya Raijor Anusthan (Rural Programme) 7-15 P.M-Yuvavani (Youth Programme) 7-45 P.M-Daakpakhili 8-00 P.M-Ekalabya (Sponsored Programme of K.K Handique State Open University) 10-00P.M-Classical Music Sd-/H.O.P

Jagiroad LAC BJP candidate Pijush Hazarika celebrates his assembly election victory with supports in Jagiroad on 19-05-16. Pix by UB Photos

Twenty years of political hegemony comes to end ET Correspondent Naharkatia, May 20: Amid must speculations the result of assembly election 2016 was declared yesterday. In Naharkatia 120 LAC six candidates tried their luck in this assembly election, where Naren Sonowal of A.G.P who got 46051 votes came out as winner defeating Pranati Phukan of Congress by a margin of 3531 votes. It needs to be mentioned that 120 Naharkatia LAC was believed to be Congress strong hold where Pranati Phukan won for four consecutive terms but this time the A.G.P succeeded to grab the seat.

After winning the seat Naren Sonowal in a press meet held today at Naharkatia A.G.P office paid his gratitude to the party workers and the people of Naharkatia constituency for giving him the change to work for the welfare of the people. He also

said that he will concentrate on the problem of erosion, unemployment and the other problems faced by Naharkatia people.

In his speech is said that he will need the help of public and the press fraternity in solving out the problems of Naharkatia. Out of total 98504 votes Congress got 42520 votes, C.P.I (M) got

4026, Mohan Nag (Independent) got 2708 votes, Mahendra Dhadumia (Independent) got 783, Jan Congress Party got 697 and total 1719 pressed none of the above button. After winning the election Naren Sonowal said that there is lots to be done and as people of Naharkatia has elected him he will leave no stone

unturned to work for the development of the people of the constituency'. Celebrating the victory people of Naharkatia gave a warm welcome to the Naren Sonowal yesterday, people received Mr. Sonowal with gamusa on the way and fire crackers were burst on the roads, a festive like environment was seen at Naharktia.

Husband kills his own wife at Digboi

ET Correspondent Digboi, May 20: Adding one more to the crime graphs of Digboi, a husband murdered his own wife here on Thursday evening at the hands of her own husband at Hollangbai TE Pacca Line under Digbo Police Station in Tinsukia District.

According to sources, the

Stolen school‘s property recovered ET Correspondent Digboi, May 20: Digboi police team headed by SI Tirtha Dehingiya today recovered several stolen materials that belong to Gopineri LP School at Balijan under Digboi Police Station in Tinsukia District from the residence of Ajay Urang and Anju Urang, the resident of a nearby locality.

The recovered property of the school which was stolen on the night of 6th last included two ceiling fans, solar board, a battery charger, inverter, teaching materials and school documents. A case to this effect was registered earlier on 7th last and accordingly based on the case no. 6/2016 the Police raided the house of the suspected family and recovered the same. The case was prosecuted u/s 380 IPC. However, no arrest to this effect has been made as the accused have been at large till the filling of this report.

gruesome act was committed after the husband Dipak Garh of Bogapani Line no.

33 who used to stay at the in-laws residence at Hollangbai spat his anger upon his wife who hurled abuses on him regularly.

The wife Silonti Panika (23) was hit by her husband near her residence with an axe who succumbed on the

spot. Meanwhile police rushed to the spot and arrested the accused based on case no 85/2016 and prosecuted the monstrous husband u/s 302 IPC. The corpse of the deceased was handed over after relevant legal and medical formalities.

It needs mentioning here that the incidence of violence and anti-social activi-

ties in and around Digboi has been ever increasing which has indeed become a matter of concern for the people in general. The crime graphs witness an increasing trend within a very short span of time due to unabated incidence of burglary, theft, murder, cyber crimes, and domestic violence and so on.

Assam Governor appoints new Mission Director for PMJDY A Staff Reporter Guwahati, May 20: The Governor of Assam appointed Dr. Ravi Kota, IAS, Commissioner and Secretary, Finance Department as a Mission Director of Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) for coordination among the State Level Implementation Committee, District Level Implementation Committee and various agencies under the scheme with immediate effect in place of Sameer Kumar Khare, IAS, ExPrincipal Secretary to the Govt. of Assam, Finance Dept, informed in a press release issued from the administration.

BSF seizes smuggling cattle heads A Staff Reporter Guwahati, May 20: Troops of Border Security Force deployed under Guwahati Frontier in Dhubri have seized large numbers of cattle heads meant for smuggling to Bangladesh on the intervening night of 19TH& 20TH May 2016. 265 cattle heads worth Rs18, 81,700/(approx) were seized yesterday from cattle smugglers on the Indo-Bangladesh border, by BSF troops deployed in the riverine border of Dhubri. BSF troops are always alert to issue of trans-border crimes and illegal infiltration and are making all out efforts to prevent commission of illegal crimes.

I would stress for the social integration: Rabiram Narzary ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, May 20: Rabiram Narzary, former ABSU president and BPPF, later merged with BPF party ahead assembly election in January last, won the poll battle with huge margin from 29-Kokrajhar West LAC in Kokrajhar district on BPF ticket. Narzary, in his first step in poll battle after merged with BPF party, got 64,423 votes and Dahit Chandra Brahma; AIUDF got 47,083 votes while former Rajya Sabha MP

and UPP candidate, UG Brahma got only 18,629 votes. Narzary, after elected to the Assam assembly immediately in an exclusive interview said that he would stress for the social integration in his constituency, besides highlighting social issues to meet healthy development and unity among all sections of community.

He thanked the party leaders, voters for giving him opportunity to contest the election from the

constituency and assured that his party would try to fulfill their commitment.

He also said the people of the region desired a change in the state and thus the people cast their votes for BPF, BJP and AGP. ‘It is a joy of peoples, party always would be with citizens. I will dedicate myself for the welfare social uplift among all sections of communities in the constituency,' Narzary

said.

On the ministerial berth in the state government, Narzary said that his party will place demand for four ministerial berth in the government to make development and integrity in the region.

We must bring social uplift and development to pave way strong sustainable of the state in the field of developmental spirits, he added.

Division of votes causes defeat of Joy BPF will work for Prakash Das in Lakhimpur and Rao development and Gajendra Singh in Nowboicha LAC integrity in the state ET Correspondent Lakhimpur, May 20: As per the mandate of the Assam State Assembly Election-2016 declared yesterday, entire North Assam became Congressless stamping a new chapter in the political history of the State. The voters of the area did cast their votes against incumbent Congress Government for three terms. The wave to change the incumbency washed away Congress in Lakhimpur and Dhemaji District. Dr Joy Prakash Das, the MLA candidate of Congress was defeated in Lakhimpur LAC along with Bhupen Kumar Borah in Bihpuriya, Bharat Narah in Dhakuakhona, Sanjay Raj Subba in Nowboicha and Sumitra Patir in Dhemaji. They were all heavy weight candidates of the party in the election in the all six seats of the both districts.

However, it is discussed that Dr Joy Prakash Das became the victim of vote division in the LAC. It is noteworthy that existing MLA of AGP, the candidate of BJPAGP-BPF Alliance Utpal Dutta won the Lakhimpur LAC achieving 45,832 votes by a margin of 4122

votes than that of Joy Prakash Das. He pocketed 41,710 votes while dissident candidate of Congress Ex-MLA Ghana Burhagohain who was in the fighting line independently, secured 23,469 votes and ranked third in the least. He divided Congress voters giving advantage to Utpal Dutta. It is so because the total sum of votes both candidates achieved 65,179. If Ghana Burhagohain had not been an independent candidate this division of vote can be prevented Dr Joy Prakash Das were a winner.

Similarly, the division of votes between AGP and BJP caused the defeat of Rao Gajendra Singh of BJP in Nowboicha LAC. It is well known to all that both parties were in alliance in this election. But the agreement of alliance turned to be farce in the election as Jayanta Khaond of AGP jumped into a meaningless friendly contest in the LAC. He pocketed 8055 votes. Moreover dissidence of BJP, Simanta Baruah snatched away 2787 votes as an independent candidate. These two factors made Rao Gajendra Singh digest an unexpected loss of the seat

by a margin of 1245 votes to Mamun Imdadul Haque Choudhury of AIUDF. At first, Sing was leading by more than eighteen thousand votes than Choudhury.

Later he was to bear the defeat as Choudhury achieved the concrete votes in the minority areas. It is therefore discussed that the victory of Sing was sure if the pocket vote had not been divided by Jayanta Khaond and Simanta Baruah.

It is noteworthy that Choudhury got 56,022 votes while Singh achieved 54,777 votes. In Jonai LAC (ST), the sum total of divided BJP votes could not reach the cumulative total votes that the winner Bhuban Pegu of Sanmilita Gana Shakti. Pegu secured 88,379 votes while BJP candidate Aswini Pait got 39,106 and dissident of BJP in the LAC Satho Basumatary 33,258 votes.

The total votes both achieved are 72,364. On the other hand, division of votes could not prevent Pradan Baruah of BJP in Dhemaji LAC. He won the seat though Sailen Sonowal was in contest independently being dissident of the party.

ET Correspondent Kokrajhar, May 20: Kampa Borgoyary, BTC Deputy Chief and BPF spokesperson said that bringing of development and integrity among all sections of the communities in BTAD region as well across the state will be prime job of the alliance government in the state.

Bodoland Peoples Front (BPF), an alloy of BJPAGP alliance party has swept victory in 12 constituencies from 13 contested seats in BTAD region that result was declared on Thursday. Party had won 11 seats in 2006 and 12 in 2011 and this time too won 12 getting huge margins and saw strong popularity among citizens in the region. BPF’s key winners included Rihan Daimary (Udalguri), Charan Boro (Mazbat), Kamali Basumatary (Panery), Maheswar Boro (Kalaigaon), Emanuel Mushahary (Tamulpur), Maneswar Brahma (Barama), Thaneswar Basumatary (Chapaguri), Kamalsing Narzary (Bijni), Chandan Brahma (Sidli), Pramila Rani Brahma (Kokrajhar east), Rabiram Narzary (Kokrajhar west)

and Majendra Narzary (Gossaigaon). Borgoyary termed that the landslidevictory of BJPBPF-AGP alliance is historic and showed that peoples wanting change in the state.

The alliance government at Dispur will stress for working peoples’ welfare, which is the prime job in the coming days. The party would emphasize on social development and integration to meet healthy development and unity among all sections of community to gain more unity in the state, Borgoyary said. The party will initiate to implement the pending clauses of Bodo Accord in days to coming.The party will be discussed with alliance parties to the issue of ministerial berths, he added.

'This is a historic mandate of people of Assam, not only in BTC area, rather in the entire Assam, the unity and integrity of the conscious of Assam which showed strong unity which stands at the peaceful.We must keep unity and development to get more gaining for social upliftment', Borgoyary said.

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 21

PAGE 3

Tirap people hail suspension of SP: Arunachal CM and Governor extend Laud Home Minister for prompt action greetings for Buddha Purnima ET Bureau Khonsa, May 20: In a joint statement the functionaries of the Action Committee Chairman T. Tongluk, President Ngampay Lammaty, Secretary T. Bangsia and Spokesperson Hangliam Sumnyan on 20th May while welcoming the suspension of former Tirap SP Jasmeet Singh, IPS, lauded the justified action of the state government.

They appreciated the role of the Deputy Chief Minister Kameng Dolo who also holds the Home portfolio for the prompt disciplinary action initiated against the erring SP adding that this action of the government would send a strong signal to those top Police Officers who tend to take the law in their own hands and act according to their whims

and fancies thereby putting the law they are expected to uphold into jeopardy.

The Action Committee Members have expressed their gratitude to The Chief Minister, The DCMs, Speaker Wangki Lowang, Education Minister Wanglin Lowangdong, MLAS Tirong Aboh and Wanglam Sawin for their constant support and guidance during the people’s peaceful and democratic movement for justice.

They have appreciated all the frontal organizations including students’ unions, women’s wings, NGOs PRI members and the general public for their unwavering support to Lankham Wangsu who was wronged for no fault of his.

The members have

specially thanked the Tirap Deputy Commissioner Ravi Jha whose wise advice and suggestions acted as a calming effect on the restive youth. They said that the DC’s constant plea to maintain peace and order by not resorting to any violent means helped in bringing the volatile situation under control.

The DC has, in the meantime, urged all to put all speculations to rest assuring that impartial inquiry into the case would go on and asked the people to maintain peace to enable development processes to go on without any hiccup.

When contacted T. Tongluk, senior public leader and Chairman of the Action Committee said, “The most unfortunate, uncalled for and despicable

act of the SP Jasmeet Sigh has acted as an eye-opener for all. I must thank the DC for acting in such a mature manner to bring the situation under control.

Unlike the SP Jasmeet Singh we the law-abiding people of Tirap district always respect the law of the land and our inherent societal ethics and age-old traditional systems don’t allow us to hurt others without any reasons. We may be economically and educationally backward but our upbringing is rested on a sound footing thanks to the wisdom of our forefathers and our societal roots are strong and firm that prevent us from indulging in unwarranted action like what SP Jasmeet Singh did.”

The Action Committee

members passionately appealed to the law enforcing agencies and the state government to take exemplary and stringent action against the erring SP if found guilty during the investigation and urged the government to carry out a transparent, unbiased and fair investigation to unearth the truth and take the case to its logical conclusion.

The members also demanded compensation for the innocent victim Lakham Wangsu who is undergoing treatment in a private hospital in Dibrugarh, Assam. Since the Action Committee is satisfied with the prompt action initiated by the state government the proposed Tirap Bandh on Saturday stands cancelled unconditionally.

Arunachal CM to deal strongly with elements trying to disrupt the relationship with Assam ET Bureau Itanagar, May 20: Perturbed with the news that some organizations are trying to create misunderstanding between the people of Arunachal and Assam living along the Assam-Arunachal interstate Boundary through social media and regional newspapers, Chief Minister Kalikho Pul appealed to maintain the age old relationship of peace, harmony and cooperation between the people of Assam and Arunachal living along the inter-state

BJP congratulates people of Assam over historic win against Congress A Staff Reporter Itanagar, May 20: The state Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) today congratulated the people of Assam for their resounding mandate to the BJP in the recently held Vidhan Sabha Elections-2016 in 126 houses.

Terming it a historic win, state BJP vice president Techi Necha said that the results would impact the political equation of the entire North-East region as a whole.

“The victory of the BJP and its electoral alliance in Assam is the result of the Congress misrule and high handedness corruption by the Congress Government in Assam”, said Necha, before adding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a Congress-Mukt (free) India is turning into a reality –Assam and Arunachal Pradesh included.

Speaking on the occasion, BJP national executive member Tame Phassang said that the BJP has moved forward and now has established governance in 10 states in the country from nine.

He said that Prime Minister Modi has been paying attention to the northeast region of India unlike the previous Congress Government, which is clear in the mandate given by the people of Assam.

“The people of Assam have awakened, which shows that they want change. It is Arunachal’s time now”, he asserted and called on the general masses to come together and support the BJP.

Boundary. He said that people of Assam and Arunachal have a strong bond of human relationships and cultural affinity that has been nourished together for centuries. He appealed to the people of the two states that we should not let this bond to be shaken by divisive forces.

He said that it is very unfortunate to see some organizations with vested interest are trying to disrupt the age old relationship of the people of both the states

by misguiding the general people and trying to create unwanted situation along the interstate AssamArunachal Border.

Chief Minister vehemently condemned the circulation of such nuisance through some social and regional media saying that his govt would not tolerate such disgruntled elements and would strongly deal with them. He disclosed that govt is conducting enquiry into the matter and said to punish those found responsible under appropriate sections

of law.

He called upon the people of both the states that being the peace loving and law abiding people, we should not allow such elements to grow and create misunderstanding between the people of the two states as it is visibly clear that the voice raise by some vested organizations in social media like facebook, whatsapp and regional media is not the voice of the people of Arunachal but that of a criminal outfit.

He appealed the people not

to give heed to such voices but to remain vigil and cautious and to see that such disgruntled voices of individuals or organization does not lead us in a wrong direction.

At the same time, he appealed the people to work in non-communal or nonregional manner keeping in mind the interest of the state and the nation at the topmost priority as it is the duty of every citizen of India to work for the peace and harmony of the society, CM said.

Governor calls upon army to adopt villages in Arunachal A Staff Reporter Itanagar, May 20: Arunachal Pradesh Governor J P Rajkhowa today called upon the Indian Army to adopt villages, schools and conduct medical camps in remote border areas for better coordination and a harmonised environment in the frontier state.

The governor made this appeal when General Officer Commanding-inChief from Eastern Army Command Kolkata, Lt General Praveen Bakshi called on him at Raj Bhavan and discussed about strengthening the Army presence in the state and healthier civil-

army liaison.

The governor suggested the Army to provide ration items through their canteen facilities and medicines and study materials to the health centres and schools respectively, a Raj Bhawan communique informed.

"With its men and machine, the Army can help patient evacuations at the time of emergency and maintain all the roads clear at all the time", the Governor said.

"Such initiative by the Army will help in arresting the migration of the indigenous

population from rural border areas to urban settlements leaving those frontier areas vacant," Rajkhowa pointed out.

Citing the example of Lady Everest Anshu Jamsenpa who had set two world records in mountaineering field, the governor also asked the Army to groom sporting talents.

He stressed that the army units in the different parts of the state must motivate the local youth to join the Indian Army, particularly in the Arunachal Scouts.

The Governor congratulated the Indian Army for successfully

summiting Mount Everest (8848M) at dawn today, which was closed due to the devastation caused by the earthquake in Nepal last year.

He also commended the Army units in Arunachal Pradesh for strengthening their position in the border area.

The Army Commander briefed the governor on the overall scenario of Army presence in the state and area of responsibilities.

He also proposed for regular 'Civil-Army liaison' meeting at various levels of the command, the communique said.

Capacity building program of women on disaster management held at Chowgkham Indrajit Tingwa Namsai May 20 : A series of Capacity Building of Women on Disaster Management was organized by District Disaster Management Authority in collaboration with CDPO office, Namsai ICDS Project from 11 to 18 May last for women PRI members, SHGs ,Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and adolescent girls of RGSEAG (SABLA) Life Skill Education at Namsai,Piyong,Lathao and Chongkham.

On 18 May, the programme was held at Chongkham and was attended by Sri Oling Lego, EAC, Inspr. Thomas Pertin, i/c Police Out Post

Chongkham, Smti. Emily Tingkhatra,DDMO Namsai,CDPOs of Namsai,Lekang and C h o n g k h a m , D r. N a n g C h a n d r a m u k h i Namchoom,MO CHC Chongkham,Secretary,Women Welfare Society Chongkham, Women PRI members,AWWs and adolescent girls of SABLA Scheme.

A wide range of issues pertaining to womenfolk and girls were discussed.

Training and demonstration were imparted to cope with natural and man-made disasters like female trafficking, domestic violence, sexual abuse etc.

At the outset of the programme, Smti. Emily Tingkhatra, DDMO in her

keynote address spoke in length about the management of disasters, both natural and man-made. She underscored the need to cater to vulnerable groups mostly women and children.

Dr. Nang Chandramukhi Namchoom imparted training and demonstration on first aid, hygiene and other women related issues during any disaster with the help of ICDS functionaries. Smti. W.Khimhun, CDPO Namsai spoke on the role of women volunteers during disasters and exhorted them to remain cautious and keep emergency essentials like torchlight,dry fruits and drinking water.

Inspr. Thomas Pertin ex-

plained about the role of police in disaster management. He opined that whenever any mishap occurs, people bank on the police for immediate rescue and help like in case of fire accidents, during natural calamities, crimes etc.

He said police is always there to extend help but reminded that stakeholders ought to take precautions in day to day life in order to avoid hazards.

Sri Oling Lego, EAC in his address shared safety tips on earthquake and other natural and manmade disasters. He pointed that people often self create disasters by taking wrong decisions. He also talked about crimes against women and children.

A Staff Reporter Itanagar, May 20: Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh Kalikho Pul extends heartiest greeting to the people of Arunachal Pradesh in general and the people of Buddhist Community in particular on the auspicious occasion of Buddha Purnima. He expressed hope that the occasion will promote kindness and compassion among the people of the state, the trail of Gautam Bhuddha.

In his message, Chief Minister said that “Gautam Bhuddha through his profound spiritual wisdom has enlightened and impact thousands of lives. His teachings are universal, have the strength to awaken people to reality and to make them introspect themselves. His teachings have not only given insights into one’s existence but also made significant contribution in liberating one from day-to-day conflicts in minds”, stated in a press release issued from CM office.

He called upon the people of the state to imbibe and practice his teachings on

love, non-violence and human virtues in true sense in our daily life.

He expressed hope that the blessed occasion would herald inner peace and happiness to all the people of the state.

The Governor, JP Rajkhowa while conveying his greeting for the occasion expressed hope that the blessed occasion will promote the teachings of Lord Buddha in true spirit and values in our minds and actions and brings enlightenment, informed in a press statement issued from Raj Bhavan.

In his message on the occasion, the Governor said that

“one of the greatest spiritual teachers of all times, Gautam Buddha had enlightened each and everyone through his teachings and practices and shown the path of truth and eternal values of peace and non-violence to entire humanity. His teachings encompass the entire ‘Wheel of Dharma’, with its central axis of ethical discipline and have the power to transform our lives and fill us with abiding spiritual strength”, the Governor said.

May the pious occasion inspire all to imbibe Lord Buddha’s teachings for the enduring wellbeing of each member of the society and attainment of Nirvana, Governor wished.

Students’ Union suspends proposed Bandh Call for May 24 A Staff Reporter Itanagar, May 20: The All Kra Daadi District Students’ Union (AKDDSU) today in a press conference informed that it has temporarily suspended the proposed bandh call for May 24 next in the district after Chief Minister Kalikho Pul assured them to look into the matter of the ouster of the Deputy Commissioner of Kra Daadi.

Addressing the media, AKDDSU president Gora Rikam Bhai informed that though the chief minister has not provided a specific time frame, the union would hold off its bandh call for a period of 30 days from today. However, if the state government fails to arrive at a decision after that, it would continue with its democratic

movements.

AKDDSU general secretary Pakyum Talop informed that the chief minister invited them for a discussion on May 17 last, where he assured the union that an inquiry would be held into the alleged malpractices and corruption charges on the deputy commissioner.

“We have temporarily suspended the bandh call out of respect for the chief minister and his assurance, but any delay or false assurances would compel us to continue our agitation”, Rikam said.

While maintaining that they respect the suggestions of their local representatives, the AKDDSU requested MLAs Markio Tado and

Takam Pario not to interfere in the posting of an IAS cadre deputy commissioner as the AKDDSU is striving for greater development of the newly created district.

Rikam also requested the people and student community of the district to not lose faith in the union and affirmed that their movement has not been cancelled, but would continue till the demands of the district are fulfilled.

He also made it a point to highlight that they had submitted several representations to higher authorities, which were allegedly ignored. “Our appeals were left unheard when we followed protocol.

We had to resort to a bandh call to get their attention”, Rikam added.

Self Help Group empowers the women of the society particularly in rural villages and it should be encouraged: Rita Rajkhowa

A Staff Reporter Itanagar, May 20: A twentyfour member Self Help Group from Panya Village, Aalo, West Siang District led by Gedam Kamchi called on the First Lady of the State Rita Rajkhowa at Raj Bhavan, Itanagar on 20th May. The SHG, which has just came back from self organised exposure tour to Nagaland and Meghalaya and shared their experiences with the First Lady, informed in a press release issued from Raj Bhavan.

Interacting with the SHG, Rajkhowa said that Self Help Group empowers the women of the society particularly in rural villages and it should be encouraged. She advised them to take up floriculture, handlooms and handicrafts, horticulture and animal rearing, in which they are expertise and which are viable in rural areas. She advised them to start fruit or food processing units as the area around Aalo in West Siang District which is known for its abundant horticultural products such as orange and pineapples. Such activities

will not only empower them socially but also financially, Rajkhowa emphasised.

Appreciating the women for coming out of their houses and exploring the world around, she said that it a wonderful initiative and must be other SHGs must emulate to develop new and better ideas and broaden ones mental horizon.

Sharing their experiences of their maiden excursion outside the State, the members informed that they are very much impressed by the cleanliness of Mawlynnong Village, Meghalaya, the world’s cleanest village and pristine forest areas in Nagaland and encouraged to start for village or rural tourism in their village. Inspired by the tourism sector in both the States and inviting the advice from First Lady for the tourism venture, they informed that if good roads, adequate water supply and power are there in the village, their enterprise will be successful. The First Lady informed that the Governor has already taken up the issue of road con-

nectivity in the State with the State Government, North Eastern Council, Department of North Eastern Region and Ministries of Union Government and it is expected that it will be adequately addressed very soon.

Later, the SHG met the Governor JP Rajkhowa. He suggested them various avenues through which they can enhance their financial status, thereby raising socio-economic level and standard of living.

The Governor advised the members of the group to register their NGO and avail financial assistance from (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development) NABARD through departments of Agriculture, Handlooms and Handicrafts, Industry, Veterinary and Animal Husbandry, etc. He said that there are many programmes and schemes of the State and Central Governments, where the Self Help Groups will be provided trainings and financial assistance for sustaining their activities.

Fogging drive; Pasighat gears up for dengue preventive measures Contd. from Page 1 Agam colony and NHPC are being covered yesterday and in next 2-3 days, areas like JNC, Raneghat, GTC, Mirku, Mirbuk, Mirsam and Balek area villages will be covered, informed sources from fogging team.

When contacted over the extensive fogging drive and further departmental

preparedness, DMO Mandip Perme said that, this fogging drive is being carried out as preventive measures after conducting source reduction activities. “I appeal each and every section of the people to kindly take up a weekly source reduction activities in their localities as preventive measures, as fogging drives are not the complete solution, it only kills the adult dengue mosquitoes, but not the eggs and

larvae”, cautioned Perme.

However, there is no such dengue fever detected till today this year around, but preventive measures are being undertaken and common denizens are advised to keep their surroundings cleaned and carry out source reduction activities, added Perme who is making all out effort to stop the reoccurrence of such outbreak like last year where a person had lost his life.

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 21

PAGE 4 Leopard terror, 3 injured ET Correspondent Golaghat, May 20: The people living the Golaghat - Karbi Anglong Border have been under panic and terror of leopard. A leopard has been creating terror in Bogijan and Chokihola areas since a few days.

Today the leopard attacked three women at Chokihola when they were plucking leaves in a tea garden. The injured have been identified as Rohila Terangpi, Tadu Ronghangpi and Mina Kumari. The three injured women were admitted at KK Civil Hospital in Golaghat. However the leopard is still untraced and terror of leopard continues.

Sonowal to meet newly elected CBSE class XII results to be announced tomorrow party MLAs in Guwahati The board exams began A Staff Reporter Guwahati, May 20: Union Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal is all set to become the next Chief Minister of Assam where the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has secured absolute majority along with its allies in the assembly elections.

Sonowal is also likely to meet newly elected party MLAs in Guwahati today.

BJP’s allies – Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) and Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) have already said that they will support Mr

newly elected MLAs will be held soon. The AGP will also meet BJP leadership on issues like ministerial berths. BPF will hold its legislature meeting tomorrow.

Sarbananda Sonowal Sonowal as Chief Minis- AGP spokesperson Manoj ter of the state.

Saikia said that meeting of

BJP Vice President Om Mathur and Union Minister Thaawar Chand Gehlot will be the party’s observers for the election of leader of its legislative party. The decision was taken at BJP Parliamentary Board meeting held in New Delhi yesterday evening.

Surprise check on IGGC hostels by CM Pul at Tezu A Staff Reporter Tezu, May 20: Chief Minister Kalikho Pul in his visit to Indira Gandhi Government College, Tezu today made an unannounced visit to the college boys and girls hostel. It followed after the CM attended the inauguration ceremony of a new college library building, which was inaugurated by Aalo MLA Jarkar Gamlin. Nampong MLA Laisam Simai who accompanied the Chief Minister’s entourage team to Tezu, led the ribbon cutting ceremony.

The Chief Minister visited the library facilities and enquired the teaching staffs on the availability of newspapers and books. He was informed that there was shortage of science books in the college library, to which the CM asked the authority to prepare a proposal and submit accordingly.

He also inspected the toilet facilities in the library room.

The faculty informed the

CM that the college faced great water shortages.

Further in his surprise visit, the Chief Minister visited the girls hostel. He inspected the kitchen, store and toilet facilities.

Finding the kitchen in dilapidated conditions with stagnant water all around

the building, the Chief Minister directed the district administration to prepare immediate proposal. The CM on spot selected the site for new kitchen and dining room. He instructed to make RCC table and bench and provision for serving food from the kitchen.

On complaints of repeated power failure, the Chief

Minister assured to provide DG set as backup. He also asked the administration to prepare proposal for boundary walls and gates to prevent stray animals from entering the hostel compound.

On inspection of toilet facilities, the Chief Minister found the toilet to be in dilapidated and unhygienic

condition and asked the college principal Dr Tasi Taloh to make regular surprise visits to check on such shortcomings. Further, the Chief Minister visited the boys hostel. He first inspected the kitchen facilities and appreciated the cleanliness maintained. On shortage of helpers and cook, the CM directed the administration to immediately fulfill the requirement.

He also directed the deputy commissioner Danish Ashraf to pay visit to college hostels brining along officials from PHE, PWD and electrical department to address the shortages of infrastructures, water and electricity. Further, the Chief Minister asked the administration to conduct regular social service on every Saturday for college, market and hospital. ties, and asked the administration for its renovation. He also asked the college principal for early submission of its inventory report and the status of the facilities in the college.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Party President Amit Shah and Union ministers including Rajnath Singh, Venkaiah Naidu and Nitin Gadkari were present at the meeting.

Meanwhile, BJP has given credit to social media for massive victory in the elections. Social media incharge of BJP, Satya Ranjan Bora said social media enabled the party to spread its message of development far and wide.

on March 1 and concluded on April 22 PTI New Delhi, May 20: The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) will announce the result for class XII board examination tomorrow.

The Board will announce the results for all its regions at 12 noon.The second phase of tele counselling will also commence along with the announcement of the results and will continue till June 4, 2016.

The CBSE exams began on

March 1 and concluded on April 22. This year, a total of 10, 67, 900 candidates registered for the Class 12 exam as against 10,40,368 in 2015. HRD Minister Smriti Irani had earlier this week assured students during a Facebook chat that the result for CBSE Board exams for class X and XII will be declared "on time" before the end of this month and, as per a decision taken earlier, state boards are also expected to declare their results by May 31.

Kaling Moyong inaugurate Distribution Transformer

ET Bureau Pasighat, May 20: Kaling Moyong , MLA, inaugurated 2x 100 kva,11/0.415 kv Distribution Transformer at Jarkong, ward no. 11, Pasighat.

Interacting with the public, Moyong said that with the installation of the distribution transformer, the people of the area will be relieved off from the chronic low voltage problem. Doing away with low voltage power problem will not only enable use of power for development works but help the youths and students in their studies and use of latest

technologies. He also instructed the officers of PHE department to gear up the pace of work and complete the Lift Water Supply in Jarkong area within one month. This will ease the acute water problem in the area, the MLA added.

Moyong also informed that the that Hon’ble Chief Minister Kalikho Pul has assured to consider installation of C.T. Scan at General Hospital, Pasighat. He was hopeful that with active initiative of the Hon’ble CM, this will materialize very soon. This will not

only cater to the needs of huge local demand but also serve the patients of the adjoining districts and Assam. The MLA expressed his thankfulness and gratitude to the Hon’ble Chief Minister for considering to fulfill the long felt demand of the area.

Earlier, Sobo Pertin, councilor (ward no. 11) while welcoming all said that the transformer was the long felt need of the area. He thanked all those who helped in installing the transformer which will ease the life of the people.

Administration and Police are for the WASE rewards Sille-Oyan police, safety and security of the Public, says DC AASU extends cooperation Admin & police cooperative:WASE

ET Correspondent Pasighat, May 20: “The Administration and the Police are always for the safety and security of the public and will never be left behind in maintaining law and order”, said Isha Khosla DC, East Siang while interacting with the Gaon burahs/buris, PRI members, Business communities local populace, staff etc. of Oyan Circle. The DC was at Oyan to take first hand information regarding the alleged breakdown of law and order, rampant extortions, drug trafficking etc. in Oyan Circle which appeared in some local dailies.

The DC said that any kind of donation is illegal so people should report to the administration or police if they find any donation seeker. “Drugs and alcohol not only affect the addicts but also affects the family and the society as a whole. They lead to increase in crimes and anti-social activities beside health problems and economic drainage. Therefore all sections of the society should unitedly check and fight the menace”, she Khosla.

However the DC said that people should come forward

and inform or report to the administration so that prompt action can be taken. If at all required they can directly report to the DC, she said. Also whenever any action is being taken against someone, the public should let the law take its own course. She instructed the Circle Officer, Ocean Gao to carry out extensive raids for illegal selling of liquor and drugs and seal the shops and cancel the licenses if anybody is found indulging in such illegal activities. She also asked him to increase patrolling during the night time. The Govt. has decided to provide vehicles to the district police, if available one vehicle will be made available to the Sille-Oyan Police outpost. She also assured to take up with Govt. for increase in deployment.

Basonsing Pao, G/ Burrah, Bobita Bori, G/Burrih, Tamat Takoh, President, Daily Bazar, Tado Kamsi, Bazar Secy and members of business community those who spoke on the occasion said that as Oyan is centrally located, the population and business is increasing. There has been few cases of drug paddling and 2 cases of human trafficking wherein due to the

prompt action of police and administration, they were arrested and sent to Pasighat.

Other than that there are no major crimes reported in the area, they said. Rather they appreciated the Administration and the police for their untiring efforts to keep crimes in check despite limited resources. The exaggerated news item in the local dailies is unfounded. However, they all appealed to the society as a whole to support and lend co-operation to check the evils in the society.

They also praised the yeoman services rendered by the Adi Bane Kebang (WW) in this field.

Ocean Gao while briefing about the case reported and action taken on them, informed that every possible efforts are being taken to maintain law and order. He also divulged that even local informers are engaged to check anti social elements and their activities. The CO said that he with his team is ready 24 hours on call. He said that the news has item sent a wrong message and appealed the DC to take up the matter with the appropriate authorities so that such incident doesn’t occur in future.

(DIPRO)

Maksam Tayeng Pasighat, May 20: As a mark of honour and respect to those police personals who helped activists of Women Against Social Evils (WASE) in their fight against social evils with special mention to recent incident where two dreaded drugs peddlers cum addicts were arrested from Oyan, the WASE team led by President Omem Ering and General Secretary Joya Tasung Moyong awarded reward of Rs. 1000 each to six police personnel which was handed over by Ocean Gao, Circle Officer, SilleOyan as Chief Guest today.

The six awarded police personnel from SilleOyan Police Out post were SI, V. Lowang, Ct. Sanjoy Bori, Ct. Katin Mingki, Ct. S. Techi, Ct. W. Ngemu and H/C Obang Noroh, informed WASE sources this evening. While talking to this reporter, Joya Tasung Moyong said that, police

be uprooted.

WASE team awards Sille-Oyan police for rendering yeoman services for fighting against drug menace. Circle Officer Sille-Oyan Circle giving away the prizes. team from Sille-Oyan was very cooperative and they made every effort to nab the peddlers. Hope our small rewards as a token of appreciation to their good work will boost up their morale, felt WASE activists who are making all out effort to fight against drug abuse etc.

Meanwhile, reacting to a news item published in local dailies recently over

failure of district administration and police in relation to Sille-Oyan areas, the WASE activist condemned the allegation and said that, police and administration are very cooperative and doing out effort to fight against the anti social and social evils. WASE appeals those who alleged failure of law and order in Sille-Oyan, not to spread such false allegation against district ad-

ministration and police, as police and administration are also doing their best these days. Working closely with police and admin at ground level, we know the ground reality, said WASE sources. DC Pasighat Isha Khola is also very cooperative and supportive in fighting against drug and other illicit substance menace and WASe opined hope that very soon the menace will

Members of youth organisations tried to blackmail sweet shop owner in Dibrugarh Contd. from Page 1 “As we got the information we went to the spot but Bhaijan met me on the road and offered Rs 1 lakh asking me not to air the news,’’ said Anil Poddar, local reporter of an electronic channel.

However, police reached the spot and the members of the

organization fled from the scene. Bhaijan, who have reportedly have a criminal past and has alleged involved in many anti-social activities.

“We purchase the ice cream directly from the manufacturer and the price was printed by them. If the organization find fault in our product they can directly complain to the police,

why they created chaos in front of our shop and put down the shutter of my shop,’’ said Pukhraj Jain, one of the owner of the shop. He added that he don’t know anything because he was in Tinsukia and one of his staff called him and informed about the matter.

It has come to light that some Dibrugarh based organizations have been

blackmailing citizens to earn their livelihood. Recently, one of the leaders of All Assam Muslim Yuva Parishad (Pragotishil) was in the news related to a drugs racket case in Dibrugarh.

C.K. Boro, officer in charge of Dibrugarh police station said, “Till now we have not registered any case regarding the matter.’’

While in a separate good development in regard to fighting against drug menace along AssamArunachal boundary, a team of All Assam Students’ Union along with five women activists met WASE team at Ruksin today afternoon. In the meeting, the WASE-AASU activists committed to jointly fight against the drug and other anti social elements operative in Arunachal-Assam boundary. AASU team was headed by Chitranjan Basumatary, Organizing Secretary (Central Committee) along with district committee from Jonai and Dhemaji. WASE and AASU activists along with women team from Jonai will jointly work on creating awareness on social evils and fighting against drug menace as many drug peddlers take refuge across the state after committing offenses, informed WASE sources.

Advt.

LOST I have lost my B.A. Graduation Certificate (Under DU Admit No 7268/Registration No. 9216) of 1988-89.

Sri Biswapran Chowdhury Moran

REGION

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 21

Nagaland CM hopes for 'better relationship' with new Assam govt

Nagaland Chief Minister TR Zeliang Kohima,May 20: Nagaland Chief Minister TR Zeliang has voiced hope of building "a much better working relationship" with the new Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government under the leadership of Sarbananda Sonowal in Assam. In a congratulatory note to Sonowal, the Nagaland chief minister said it was a landmark victory for BJP as it is going to form government for the first time in Assam after dislodging Congress.

"I look forward to a much better working relationship with the new BJP Government in Assam under your leadership," the Nagaland CM wrote in the letter to Sonowal last night, describing Assam as "our immediate neighbour

and elder brother, with whom we have many common issues and interests".

Zeliang, who heads Nagaland Peoples Front (NFP) - an ally of NDA, has also written to the prime minister on BJP's spectacular victory in Assam and said Modi's relentless efforts have paid off.

The people of the Northeast have been impressed by his dynamic leadership and the initiatives Modi has introduced, Zeliang said.

"Our alliance partner has won impressively in our neighbouring state and we now hope that better relations between the neighbours will prevail... and will continue to be good neighbours for generations to come," the chief minister said.(Agencies)

'A befitting tribute to my father' Tura, May 20: Newly elected Lok Sabha member from Tura, Conrad K. Sangma, has termed the peoples' mandate for his candidature as a befitting tribute to his late father.

Speaking to journalists outside the counting hall, the 38 year old younger son of Late P.A. Sangma expressed his gratitude to the voters and supporters of Garo Hills and recalled his father's memory.

"This is a befitting tribute paid to my late father.

I have no one other than the people of Garo Hills, my party and supporters and the Almighty God to thank," said the new MP. As he arrived at the counting venue where a landslide victory was taking place and history was being created, Conrad went up to his mother, Soradini K Sangma, and younger sister Agatha K. Sangma, who were waiting for him, and hugged one another. The air was emotionally charged as tears trickled down. Both mother and daughter were at a loss for words.

Conrad hugged and con-

soled his mother as people walked up to him and shook his hand.

"It was a vote for my father. I can't take credit for it," said Conrad and expressed his profound gratitude to the political parties BJP, GNC, UDP, HSPDP, KHNAM and their voters and workers for working alongside him in this election. He was also magnanimous in his victory and reconciliatory in his statement on his opponent and Congress candidate Dikkanchi D. Shira.

"It was a tough fight and she fought well. Many things were said by both sides. Now we need to work together for a better Garo Hills and help improve the lives of our people," said Conrad.

He said that some of the issues were dear to him particularly that of the youth and the rising unemployment, farmers and teachers plight, NREGS, law and order et al. "I would like to urge upon all political parties to work together keeping in mind the interests of the people of Garo Hills," added Conrad. (Agencies)

PAGE 5

Shutdown paralyses life in Manipur Imphal, May 20: A 38hour shutdown which began early on Friday, paralysed normal life across Manipur. The shutdown has been called by activists pressing for the presidential assent to three anti-migrant bills already passed by the Manipur assembly.

The latest shutdown comes shortly after the 48-hour general strike the hill districts of the state observed in protest against the three bills

they have termed as "anti-tribal" legislations.

There will be another 24hour "public curfew" from Sunday midnight to protest the failure of police to nab three Muslims who had fired at and injured 14 people at Nungei in Thoubal district last month.

On Friday, roads were deserted, markets and business centres closed down. Government offices, educational institutes and other facilities also remained shut.

thorities of the Manipur University for holding semester exams despite a notice about the shutdown.

A 38-hour shutdown which began early on Friday, paralysed normal life across Manipur.

The students' wing of the Joint Committee on In-

ner Line Permit System on Friday slammed au-

"Since many students could not make it, there should be re-examination. The authorities will be made accountable if the students are victimised," one of the activist leaders said. A woman activist said, "There are nocturnal torchlight processions at many places demanding enactment of the bills,

CM blames it on 'tampered' EVMs, plans legal recourse Shillong, May 20: Chief Minister Mukul Sangma has hinted manipulation of EVMs which resulted in the landslide victory of NPP candidate Conrad K. Sangma, who secured a margin of 1,92,212 votes defeating Congress candidate Dikkanchi D. Shira. "There is an impression and doubts coming from our voters about manipulation of EVMs, and hence I am asking our legal team to examine the matter to take up future course of action," said the chief minister on Thursday after returning from Tura.

According to the chief minister, every political

party has its own vote bank, and while respecting the mandate of the people, there are concerns about the functioning of EVMs as raised by the voters. "Probably the old EVMs used in 2014 elections were also used in this election and there are chances of technical defects," the chief minister said.

Pointing out that there is a need to examine whether EVMs were manipulated, the chief minister said he is keen to know whether any third party checking was carried out before commissioning the EVMs.

"There is a need to give audience to these grievances and I have already asked the party legal cell to examine the matter," he said.

Voters who are party workers are ringing up to tell that the votes cast by them do not tally with the results as shown in EVMs, the chief minister said. Giving an example, the chief minister said that in one area, 75 persons voted for the Congress, whereas the actual result in the EVMs was not tallying with the votes polled.

Deborah congratulates Conrad on win

While Chief Minister Mukul Sangma blamed EVMs for the debacle of party candidate and his wife Dikkanchi D. Shira, MPCC working president Deborah C. Marak said "the party accepts the mandate of the people". "We have to accept the mandate of the people, and I have already congratulated Conrad for the victory," Marak said on Thursday.

According to Marak, people chose Conrad to complete the remaining term following the sudden demise of P.A. Sangma. She, however, did not believe that antiincumbency played any

role in the defeat of the Congress candidate, saying that it was the seat held by P.A. Sangma.

To a question as to why the ruling Congress in the State could not ensure the victory of its candidate, Marak said that MDCs belonging to NPP had worked hard at the grass root level which was one of the factors which led to the victory of NPP candidate. When asked whether there was any complacency on the part of Congress legislators, Marak said the Congress legislators and the party members had worked hard for the byelection. (Agencies)

CPI-M central committee meeting postponed Agartala, May 20: A two-day CPI-M central committee meeting scheduled to be held next week to review the results of the five assembly polls has been postponed, a party leader said here on Friday. "The central committee meeting of the CPI-M, which was to be held on May 23-24 in New Delhi to review the results of the assembly polls in five states, has been postponed.

However, the politburo meeting would be held on May 22," Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) central committee member Bijan Dhar said.

"Though the fresh date of the central committee meeting is yet to be finalised, it is likely to be held next month after the review of the election results at the state level," Dhar said. The 93-member CPI-M central committee would thoroughly scrutinise the party's per-

CPI-M, but ruled out any major impact of the election results on Tripura.

Meanwhile, the Trinamool Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party leaders, cheerful over their parties' performance in the elections, separately claimed that they would dislodge the Left parties in Tripura in the 2018 assembly polls.

The Lefty Front has been in power in Tripura since 1993.

CPI-M central committee meeting postponed formance in five states specially the "electoral disaster in West Bengal".

Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar, who is the lone CPI-M politburo member from Tripura, would attend the meeting of the party's highest decision-making body on May 22.

Though the CPI-M leadership in Tripura is upbeat over the party's good performance in Kerala, they were upset over the

Left Front's poorest performance in West Bengal.

"The central committee of the party never decided to form a seat adjustment with the Congress, it is the state leaders of the party who did the seat adjustments to defeat the Trinamool Congress," Dhar added.

He said that the overall poll outcome, specially in West Bengal, was not up to expectations of the

The Trinamool Congress on Friday organised a rally here to celebrate the party's unexpected performance in West Bengal. "We would definitely come to the power in Tripura in the 2018 assembly polls as the misrule of the Left Front government hugely affected the common people," Trinamool's Tripura unit chairman Ratan Chakraborty said just before starting a victory rally here on Friday.

The state BJP is also planning a state-wide celebration of the electoral victory in Assam and other states. "The electoral victory in Assam is historic and it would help us expand footprint in the remaining northeastern states ruled by Congress and Left Front. Our allout preparation against the Left Front in Tripura in 2018 assembly elections has got a major fillip after party's immense victory in Assam," BJP's Tripura unit president Biplab Deb told reporters.

Suspended Congress leaders led by former Congress Legislature Party leader Sudip Roy Barman, who was the opposition leader in the state assembly, would soon go to Kolkata to meet Trinamool Congress supremo Mamata Banerjee to discuss about their joining with the party. (Agencies)

Assam poll result rings alliance bell in State Virbhadra Singh launches PEHAL in Shimla

Shimla, May 20: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh yesterday launched 'PEHAL' - a vision document of the Shimla District administration for raising education standards.

ing on the lives of the people at grassroots.

The five areas identified under PEHAL are Primary Education, Forest Rights, Health and Sanitation, Campaign against drugs and skill development and Women Empowerment.

During the launch of the programme which took place at the historic Ridge Maidan, Deputy Commissioner Rohan Chand Thakur said that the aim of the programme is to identify certain thrust areas which have a direct bear-

The district authorities have already begun works on all these areas with a distinct strategy.

The programme is also an attempt to integrate the various stakeholders in the development story of the district. (ANI)

Shillong, May 20: The rout of the Congress in Assam at the hands of the BJP and its allies is already tempting nonCongress parties in Meghalaya to come together for the 2018 Assembly polls in the Hills State. Sources say that though the Assembly election is still two years away, some of the non-Congress political parties are already open to the idea of forming an alliance to defeat the Congress in Meghalaya.

The United Democratic Party (UDP) for one is in favour of forming an "alliance of likeminded

parties" in the state for the 2018 Assembly elections. UDP working president Jemino Mawthoh said that the party is open to alliance with likeminded parties like the NPP and other regional parties for the next Assembly polls.

He, however, said that it was still too early to decide on whether the party wanted to go for a pre-poll or a post poll alliance with national player BJP. "We have to be realistic and move forward for an alliance," Mawthoh said.

Stating that the UDP

was jubilant over the win of NPP in Tura by poll, he said that Congress was on its way out (of the state) and people in the state wanted change. He said that the Congress faced strong anti-incumbency factor and added that the State Government has failed miserably to live up to the expectations of the voters.

"Central schemes are not forthcoming anymore and people are disgruntled with what is happening in Meghalaya," he said adding that regional forces are becoming

stronger in the State.

Meanwhile, HSPDP leader Ardent Basaiawmoit while congratulating Conrad Sangma said that people in Meghalaya have now joined the rest of the country in ensuring the ouster of Congress.

Asked about alliance with other parties in the run-up to the 2018 Assembly elections, he said that it is too early for him to say anything on the matter. KHNAM leader Adelbert Nongrum said that the result in Tura was a positive sign in the state and indicated that "people

are fed up of the Congress".

He said that Conrad Sangma's victory is a blessing for Garo Hills and the state as a whole, as there are expectations that Meghalaya will produce a real statesman who would present the problems of Garo Hills and the State in the Parliament. All the three political parties had extended support to Conrad for the Tura by poll. UDP leader Mawthoh thanked all the party workers in Garo Hills for ensuring the victory of Conrad.

(Agencies)

and disenfranchisement of the outsiders."

Politicians led by Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam handed over one copy of the draft memorandum to Chief Minister Okram Ibobi.

The memorandum on the issue will be submitted to the President, prime minister and others during the proposed visit of a delegation of politicians to Delhi. "The chief minister has already approved it and the cabinet may do so later," officials said. (Agencies)

Conrad breaks father Purno's victory record in GH Tura, May 20: Riding on a wave of sympathy, the National People's Party (NPP) has completely decimated the Congress in Garo Hills at the Tura Lok Sabha by-election and broken all previous records of margin of victory, surpassing even that of Late P.A. Sangma. Garo Hills has backed a new voice in Delhi in Purno Sangma's younger son, Conrad K. Sangma, who has won his father's vacant seat with a thumping majority of close to two lakh votes thus inflicting a crushing defeat on Chief Minister Mukul Sangma's wife and sitting legislator Dikkanchi D. Shira in almost all 24 assembly segments that make up the Tura Lok Sabha seat. Only Ampati, which is Mukul Sangma's constituency, favoured the ruling party in the State.

Dikkanchi lost in her own assembly segment of Mahendraganj by 1100 votes.

The resounding victory has also repudiated the 'tall' claims of Chief Minister Mukul Sangma who during his election campaign had issued an open threat of 'burying' the NPP by the time the 2018 Meghalaya elections take place. This was supposed to have been a routine by-election following the death of legendary Garo Hills strongman P.A. Sangma, but it gradually turned into an all out war of words as electioneering began, a little over three weeks ago, with daggers drawn on both sides.

The scion of a Garo Hills politico and the spouse of Meghalaya's present chief minister clashed with all intensity. Aggressive campaigning, trading of charges, allegations and anachronisms thrown in, it was a never say die for both the contesting candidates from two parties trying to usurp the political space of each other in Garo Hills.

But ultimately the winner took it all and the NPP has bounced back with a huge bang into the political scenario of Garo Hills, three years after they were almost wiped out in the 2013 State assembly polls winning just two seats out of 24.(Agencies)

NATIONAL & INTERNATIONAL

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 21

PAGE 6

Cong rejects ordinance on NEET in toto, alleges govt. serving medical lobby's interest New Delhi, May 20: With theUnion Cabinet deciding to approve promulgation of an ordinance to keep state boards out of the ambit of the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) for one academic session, the Congress Party on Friday alleged that Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government was serving the interest of a medical lobby, which included a large number of politicians and businessmen.

Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala asked the NDA regime to roll back the ordinance so that meritorious students get admission on the basis of their merit and the entire system of fleecing students through capitation comes to an end.

"Modi Government is trying to help private medical colleges, who are charging capitation fee of Rs. 60 to 80 lakh from every student aspiring to be a doctor in this country. With this view, NEET, which was espoused by the Congress

Government in 2010 and has been a subject matter of litigation till the Supreme Court decided it, is sought to be deferred by way of ordinance," Surjewala told.

"Who is Modi Government serving? Are they serving the interest of private medical colleges hold 100 examinations across India at which students spend crores of rupees? Is Modi Government serving the interest of students or a medical lobby just because a large number of politicians and businessmen have interest?" he asked. The Congress leader said that according to him, to dishonour the order of the Supreme Court is biggest dis-service to the young in this country.

"We reject in toto. We demand that Modi Government should roll back this ordinance and permit NEET to happen so that meritorious students get admission on the basis of their merit and the entire system of fleecing students through capitation comes to an end," he

Yasin Bhatkal's cousin arrested in connection with serial blasts Karnataka, May 20: The National Investigative Agency (NIA) on Friday arrested Indian Mujahideen (IM) operative AbdulWahid Siddibapa, who is the cousin of Yasin Bhatkal, for his alleged role in the serial blasts in various parts of the country from 2006 to 2010. He was

wanted in a case pertaining to conspiracy by the Indian Mujahideen to attack various places in India. He was based in Dubai and had been involved in recruitment for the Indian Mujahideen.

Siddibapa also funded the Indian Mujahideen's activities from Dubai.

(ANI)

Investigating agencies have full-fledged autonomy: Rajnath

Cong rejects ordinance on NEET in toto, alleges govt. serving medical lobby's interest said.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis welcomed the Centre's decision to clear the ordinance to postpone the NEET by a year so that the students have enough time to prepare.

"I am happy that the Central Cabinet promulgated ordinance to postpone NEET exam by a year.

There is a huge difference between the central board curriculum and state board curriculum because of which many students would have suffered," Fadnavis told.

The Centre earlier in the day cleared the ordinance to postpone the NEET exam by a year so that the students have enough time to prepare. The decision comes after a meeting chaired between Union Health minister J.P. Nadda and other state health ministers over the matter.

The meeting was convened after several parliamentarians opposed the common medical entrance test, saying the NEET has created confusion among the students who have already applied

for the state entrance exams. Earlier today, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal wrote to Prime Minister Modi asking him not to bring any order against the Supreme Court ruling on NEET, saying the students had welcomed the decision as it discouraged well endowed parents from making 'donations' to get their children admitted into reputed private medical colleges.

"It has come to my attention that reports are adrift that the Centre is making plans to overturn the decision by the Supreme Court and people have been tensed upon hearing this news. The people of the nation will be cheated if the Centre goes through with this decision. Just a few days ago, Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda called a meeting over the issue, where almost all health ministers opposed NEET, except Delhi Health Minister Satyendra Jain," the letter stated.

Kejriwal added it is also being said that many

politicians are running their own private medical colleges, in which some institutions are indulging in the practice of accepting large donations, which is why they were vehemently against the NEET examinations.

"It is my humble request to you to ensure that no orders are brought against the Supreme Courtruling in the matter, otherwise people will think that the Centre stand with those who garner black money," Kejriwal said.

The apex court had earlier ruled that the students will have to appear for NEET starting this academic session to seek admission to any medical or dental colleges in the country. The opposition parties have raised concerns that the students passing out from the state boards in vernacular languages and living in remote areas may not be able to perform well enough in common entrance exam despite being competitive. (ANI)

Rawat sting operation: Congress to respond legally to CBI notice Dehradun, May 20 : The Congress Party on Friday said that it would respond legally to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) notice to Uttarakhand Chief Minister Harish Rawat in connection with the alleged sting operation.

"We don't have any information in this regard, when we get any details then only we can comment on it. When we get the CBI's letter, we will go through its legality and cross verify it with the letter that we have sent to the CBI. Only then, we will come to a conclusion," Congress leader Indira Hridayesh told.

"The CBI will give a notice and we will answer

it legally. Harish Rawat is the Chief Minister of Uttarakhand and a decision will be taken after all considerations," she added. The comments from the grand old party come after the CBI rejected the Uttarakhand Government's notification withdrawing permission for it to probe a sting operation allegedly involving Rawat. The investigative agency had yesterday maintained that it will soon call Rawat for certain clarifications in the case.

The CBI, on its part, said they have received a communication from the Uttarakhand Government and are getting the matter legally examined.

The video shows Rawat

New Delhi, May 20: Days after the Standing Committee of the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) pulled up the Centre for the January 2 Pathankot terror attack, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday heaped praise on the security and intelligence agencies, saying they are dealing with terrorism with alertness and efficiency. "All our investigating agencies have got full-fledged autonomy. I don't think there is any interference from the government's side in the working. Our security and intelligence agencies are dealing with terrorism with alertness and efficiency," Singh told reporters here.

Earlier, speaking at the 14th investiture ceremony of the Border Security Force (BSF), he said development of any nation is not possible without a sense of security. "Whenever I felicitate brave sol-

diers, it gives me a sense of confidence. It gives me a confidence that no force in the world can dare to look at our borders. The development of any nation is not possible without a sense of security.

The world's major rating agencies have acknowledged India as world's fastest growing economy," he said.

"The infiltration attempts have reduced by 50 percent. All this has been possible because of your (BSF) courage and valour. It is quite obvious that when we make progress at such a rapid growth, some people will put on hindrances. Some of them might be our neighbours who will try to put brakes on our growth by spreading out terrorism and all," he added.

The Union Home Minister said given such circumstances, the BSF as India's Front Line of Defence has played its role efficiently. (ANI)

BJP corners Nitish govt. for deteriorating law and order situation in the state Patna, May 20: After a journalist lodged a complaint against a Janata Dal United (JD(U) MLC Hira Vind post receiving death threats, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday said that criminals and

false forces in Bihar are becoming powerful under the rule of grand alliance government led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar.

Union Minister Giriraj Singh drew flaks at incumbent Bihar dispensa-

Congress to respond legally to CBI notice indulging in horse trading a day before President's rule was imposed in Uttarakhand on March 27. The BJP had alleged that the sting was proof of unfair means used by the Rawat regime to stay in power. Rawat has maintained his inno-

cence in the matter and termed the entire episode as a conspiracy to tarnish his image. The Centre revoked President's rule from Uttarakhand on May 11 after Rawat proved his majority on the floor of the house.

(ANI)

tion and said that Kumar at the time of polls promised a fear-free Bihar but now the situation is totally contrary.

"Ever since this government was formed in the state, the law and order situation is continually deteriorating in Bihar. The criminals and the false forces are becoming powerful in the state," said Singh. "Nitish Kumar at the time of elections promised a fear-free Bihar but now the whole state is enveloped in fear. The representatives of the fourth pillar of Democracy the media are not safe then it's obvious that the common is feeling unsafe in the state," he added.

Singh further criticised Nitish government and said, "The situation is such

heard on Tuesday. Devi, who is accused of violating prohibition law, was on Tuesday sent to 14-day judicial custody.

She, however, blamed the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for falsely implicating her under political conspiracy. Devi is the

New Delhi, May 20 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani will hold discussions on bilateral, regional and multilateral issues of mutual interest, during the former's visit to the country. Prime Minister Modi will paying an official visit to Qatar from 4-5 June 2016 at the invitation of the Emir of Qatar.

Ministry of External (MEA) official spokesperson Vikas Swarup said, that this is the highest-level visit from India to Qatar since the visit of the then prime minister Dr. Manmohan Singh to Doha in 2008. There has been regular exchange of high-level bilateral visits in the recent past as the Emir of Qatar Sheikh Tamim had visited India in March 2015.

Previously, the then Emir of Qatar Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al-Thani had visited India in 1999, 2005 and 2012. India's historical and close relations with Qatar are marked by mutually beneficial commercial exchanges and extensive people to people contacts. Qatar is an important trading partner for India in the Gulf region with bilateral trade in 2014-15 exceeding US$ 15 billion and it is India's largest supplier of LNG requirements, accounting for 65% of India's total imports in 2015-16.

"Over 6, 30,000 Indian nationals form the largest expatriate community in Qatar. Their positive contribution in the progress and development of their host country is well recognized," Swarup said.

(ANI)

mother of Rocky Yadav, the main accused in the sensational road rage killing of a Class 12 student on May 7. She had been evading arrest after an arrest warrant was issued against her. The district administration had declared her a proclaimed

Mumbai (Maharashtra), May 20: A day after siphoning a historic win in Assam, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday said that the Congress, which could not form a government in either of the states, has become a habitual loser and it is high time that the party should introspect sincerely. Congratulating her party for the win, BJP leader Shaina NC told that the credit for the victory belonged to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Party president Amit Shah for the victory.

"Victory and defeat are a part of the electoral process but I think Congress party has become a habitual loser and unfortunately there is lot of introspection that they need to do," said NC. "I would like to say that this victo-

rious mandate for the BJP is clearly a credit of our Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji and Amit Shah Ji, because I believe that this is the vote for stability, strong leadership and good development," she added.

However, the Congress said it will analyse the reason behind the defeat and fight back. "Such opinions coming out in the open, I don't think that it is good.

We will analyse in depth the reason of defeat in these four states. Congress has the inner strength to fight back this situation, we have faced even worst situations in the past," Congress leader P.C. Chako. BJP bagged 60 seats on its own in the 126-member House of Assam. Its ally AGP has won 14 seats, while BPF has bagged 12 seats. (ANI)

that a boy gets shot for over taking and the situation worsens when journalists get murdered and receive life threats. And the surprising factor is this that such incidents are being reported from the area of the Chief Minister and when questioned he act oblivious." Rajesh Singh, a journalist with a daily, yesterday lodged an FIR at the Laheri police station against a Janta Dal United (JD-U) MLC Hira Vind after receiving death threats. The jourBJP leader Shaina NC nalist alleged that four Bind supporters entered his office at Biharsharif and threatened to kill him. The reports come seven days after when Ranjan, a journalist with Hindi daily Hindustan was shot dead by criminals near the Siwan Amritsar (Punjab), May The Aam Aadmi Party railway station. (ANI) 20: Punjab's Revenue (AAP) earlier claimed that Minister Bikram Singh Majithia provided patronMajithia on Friday filed a age to those involved in defamation case against the multi-crore drug Delhi Chief Minister racket dating to November offender, after she went Arvind Kejriwal over drug 2013. AAP leader Ashish underground following syndicate allegations. Khetan had earlier in institution of case Majithia told media, "To- March accused Majithia of against her under the day I filed a criminal defa- providing personal resinew Excise Act. A few mation case against dence, political patronage bottles of Indian made Arvind Kejriwal and his and state police official foreign liquor had been supporters, who have tried vehicles to facilitate the seized during raids at her to spoil the image of me movement of drug smugresidence to nab her son. and my family." glers within Punjab. (ANI) (ANI)

Manorama Devi files petition for bail again Gaya, May 20 : A day after a Gaya court rejected her anticipatory bail plea, suspended JDU MLC Manorama Devi, who has been accused of violating prohibition law, filed a bail plea in Gaya sessions court today and the matter is set to be

PM Modi to hold bilateral talks with Emir of Qatar during visit

Post historic Assam victory, BJP brands Cong as 'habitual' loser

BJP corners Nitish govt. for deteriorating law and order situation in the state Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh

PM Modi to hold bilateral talks with Emir of Qatar during visit

Punjab Minister now files defamation case against Kejriwal

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 21

PAGE 7

NEIGHBOURS

Tsai Ing-wen sworn-in as Taiwan's first woman President Taipei, May 20: Tsai Ing-wen has been swornin as the new President of Taiwan, thereby becoming the island's first female leader.

59-year-old Tsai began her four-year term as the President after an inaugural ceremony at the Presidential Office during which the national anthem was sung, reports. The DPP chairwoman and former vice premier scored a con-

Journalist's book on Kashmir banned in PoK Islamabad, May 20: A book written by a journalist has been banned in Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

The book on Kashmir is titled "Dar-eZindaan, and is written by a journalist Amjid Shareef. A notification for banning the book in the region has been issued. Mr. Shareef has projected himself as a "nationalist" writer. His profreedom writings have been unpalatable to key agencies in Pakistan. (ANI)

Debris from missing EgyptAir flight found Cairo, May 20: Egyptian armed forces on Friday said they found debris from an EgyptAir plane carrying 66 people from Paris to Cairo that disappeared over the Mediterranean the previous day,reported. According to Egyptian military spokesman Brigadier General Mohammad Samir, passenger belongings and parts of Flight MS804 were found 290 km north of the coastal city of Alexandria. The plane left Paris at 11.09 on Wednesday night and was scheduled to arrive in the Egyptian capital soon at 3.15 am on Thursday. It disappeared from the radar screens at 2.30 am On board the plane were 56 passengers, seven crew members and three security personnel.

(Agencies)

vincing victory in the January 16 election.

She took over from President Ma Ying-jeou , who served two four-year terms since May 2008.

Huang Chung-yen, who will be the Presidential Office spokesman, said the main goal of Tsai's government is to build a better country for the young, adding she hopes to achieve that by gradually adjusting political, social and economic

Tsai Ing-wen sworn-in as Taiwan's first woman President

structures that are unfriendly to today's young people.

Taiwan's role in the world, reports ChinaPost.

He spoke of five main topics that Tsai will cover in her speech: transformation of Taiwan's economic structure, improvement of the social safety net, fairness and justice, peaceful and stable development in the region and relations across the Taiwan Strait, and diplomacy and

The Taiwanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said nearly 700 heads of state, diplomats and dignitaries would be attending the event in Taipei. Tsai's election win was only the second ever for the DPP - the Kuomintang (KMT) has been in power for most of the past 70 years.

(ANI)

Pakistan to push UN to declare Indian Ocean nuclear-free zone Lahore, May 20: Adviser to the Pakistan Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz has said that India's nuclear-armed missiles deployed on nuclearpowered submarines pose a threat to the maritime security of the Indian Ocean Region's (IOR) 32 littoral states and that Islamabad would call on the United Nations regarding this matter. Aziz, while making a policy statement on the deployment of

nuclear-armed missiles on submarines in the Indian Ocean, said that Pakistan was considering a proposal for tabling a resolution at the UN General Assembly session later this year, which would call for making the Indian Ocean a nuclearfree zone.

He asserted that Pakistan might ask the 32 littoral states to co-sponsor the move which include, the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Bahrain, Iran, Iraq, Ku-

wait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, South Africa, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore and Thailand. He added that the the matter would be raised with all major world powers, both at bilateral and multilateral fora. "We are planning to highlight the dangerous implications of India's plans to nuclearise the Indian Ocean at all relevant international fora.

Pakistan is fully prepared to defend its people and

its borders" Aziz said.

"Despite limitation of resources, Pakistan has developed a robust nuclear deterrence, which is constantly updated. At the same time, Pakistan's successful efforts to ensure the safety and security of its nuclear and missile assets have been widely acknowledged," he said. He assured the Senate that Pakistani armed forces and defence scientists were fully vigilant and taking remedial measures by

"evaluating the strategic threats" and developing "strategic responses".

India had last month tested nuclear-capable K-4 SubmarineLaunched Ballistic Missiles (SLBMs) from its nuclear-powered submarine INS Arihant as part of its efforts to develop second-strike capability.

Also on Sunday, India tested its Advanced Air Defence Missile Ashwin for its upcoming multilayered Ballistic Missile Defence system. (ANI)

Myanmar police charge labour activists over rally Yangon, May 20 : Some 50 Myanmar factory workers and activists involved in a protest march that ended in scuffles with security forces this week have been charged with rioting, police said today. The latest move by authorities to punish demonstrators from recent rallies comes despite efforts by Aung San Suu Kyi's new civilian-led government to amend draconian protest laws as the country tries to shake off the repressive legacy of the former junta.

The labour protesters were on Wednesday blocked by a wall of police as they tried to complete an unauthorised march into the capital Naypyidaw. They had walked for three weeks in searing temperatures from northern Sagaing Region, where around 100 workers have recently been fired from a timber factory. Scuffles broke out as they were detained. Authorities said they had initially planned to charge just the rally leaders, but the remain-

ing demonstrators had insisted on all being prosecuted together.

"Now around 50 of them have been charged with... joining in or continuing an unlawful assembly and rioting," said Naypyidaw region police head Ko Ko Aung. He told that authorities had banned the march into the capital on the grounds of national security.

Some 20 other protesters were sent home soon after the police clampdown. Naypyidaw was built ten years ago in

remote tropical scrubland by Myanmar's former military rulers . It is still considered a stronghold of the army, despite playing host to the country's parliament and its first elected civilian government in half a century.

Suu Kyi's party is stacked with former dissidents who served prison time for their opposition to Myanmar's military governments. Since taking the helm following a landslide election victory in November, the admin-

istration has freed scores of activists and political prisoners and signalled its determination to repeal oppressive laws. But rights groups have expressed concern over efforts to amend the Peaceful Assembly Act, fearing it could continue to penalise non-violent demonstrations, albeit with shorter jail terms.

MPs debated the amendment bill in parliament on Thursday calling for further changes, but have not yet voted on the issue.(PTI)

Pak may get disputed F16s by July end, says US

Pak may get disputed F-16s by July end Pak, May 20: Defence experts in Washington D.C. anticipate Pakistan getting the disputed F-16 fighter aircrafts by the end of July despite strong opposition from American lawmakers. The experts said that the Obama administration would ultimately succeed in convincing the U.S.Congress that it was in America's interest to enable Pakistan to buy the aircraft, reports the Dawn.

Earlier this year, the Obama administration informed Islamabad that it was ready to sell eight F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan. The US Senate, however, prevented the administration from subsidising the deal, although it endorsed the sale. The White House has warned Congress that its effort to restrict US military assistance to Pakistan would hurt US interests in the region and would 'unnecessarily complicate progress' in ties with Pakistan. The

defence experts said such statements indicate improvement in relations between the defence establishments of the two countries.

They argue that the Obama administrations fears that 'bringing too much pressure' on Pakistan may have negative consequences and may also increase anti-American sentiments in the country. Diplomatic observers in Washington pointed out that both sides were being "pragmatic" in seeking to revive their ties. State Department's spokesman John Kirby noted that 'the Pakistani people have suffered at the hands of terrorists for far too long', while underlining Washington's desire to stay engaged with Pakistan. The Americans envisage a greater role for India in the region and Pakistanis are willing to work with that, provided it's not at the cost of their national interest, he added.(ANI)

Peshawar suicide bomber detonates prematurely, kills three attackers

WB restarts Cambodia loans after five-year freeze Phnom Penh, May 20 : The World Bank has approved USD 130 million worth of new loans for Cambodia, ending a fiveyear freeze in new lending to the country following a spate of controversial forced evictions by the government. The decision will be welcome news to strongman Prime Minister Hun Sen whose government has clashed with the World Bank over the eviction of thousands of families from the shores of a lake in the capital Phnom Penh.

In a statement published on its website late yesterday, the bank said its

board of directors agreed to restart loans for four projects "to provide many communities across Cambodia with better roads, sustainable sources of water, improved livelihoods from agriculture, and increased access to health care".

"Our new engagement with Cambodia starts with projects aimed to bring tangible benefits for Cambodians," Ulrich Zachau, Country Director of the World Bank for Southeast Asia, said . The bank froze new lending to the impoverished na-

tion in 2011 over mass evictions at the capital's Boeung Kak lake -- although it continued to administer loans promised before the freeze and also allowed money held in trust by the bank for other countries to be passed on to the nation.

Hun Sen's government leased the lake area to a private company which was headed by a ruling party politician. The company then filled in the lake for commercial development, displacing some 4,000 families along the way. According to the NGO Inclusive Development, the Boeung

Kak evictions are the worst mass expulsions in Cambodia since the evacuation of Phnom Penh by the Khmer Rouge in 1975. Many activists had urged the World Bank not to renew loans until new and suitable homes had been found for the evicted families.

"I am really disappointed with the World Bank," Tep Vanny, a prominent anti-eviction activist from the lakeside, told .

"Both those who have been evicted and those still living in the Boeung Kak neighbourhood have

yet to receive justice in this case." "The dispute has not ended yet," she added, demanding the World Bank to pressure the government find a speedy resolutions. Government officials could be immediately reached for comment. Land conflicts are a major problem in Cambodia and the government has faced mounting criticism in recent years from rights groups and the United Nations over a spate of forced evictions around the country that have displaced tens of thousands of mostly poor people.(Agencies)

A suicide bomber in Peshawar has accidentally detonated his vest while riding a motorcycle on an empty road.

Peshawar, May 20: A suicide bomber in Peshawar has accidentally detonated his vest while riding a motorcycle on an empty road, killing himself and two other militants also on a bike. The incident took place in the Sufaid Sang suburb just northwest ofPeshawar, where the trio were planning an attack,reports.

Their plan was foiled when the suicide vest of one suicide bomber detonated prematurely, Kashif Zulfiqar said. Their target

was not known but they were moving towards a crowded area where there are several police and military check posts," he added. Police defused a jacket fitted on the dead body of a second wouldbe bomber and recovered a Kalashnikov rifle, eight hand grenades and hundreds of live bullets.

Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan and other militant groups regularly target military and civilian installations as part of an insurgency.(ANI)

Sincerity critical for 'normalising Israel defence min resigns 3 killed, 6 injured in Kalikot in spat with Netanyahu ties' with India: Pakistan landslide in Nepal

Sincerity critical for 'normalising ties' with India Lahore, May 20 : The Islamabad Foreign Office said yesterday that sincerity was critical for normalisation of the tense relations between Pakistan and India.

"Normalisation of relations between Pakistan

and India will require sincere efforts, good faith and commitment from both countries," Foreign Office spokesman Nafees Zakaria said at his weekly media briefing. His comments came a day after Indian High Commis-

sioner to Pakistan Gautam Bambawale told media that New Delhi was ready for talks with Pakistan.

The two countries had agreed in December last to resume their bilateral peace process under the name of 'Comprehensive Bilateral Dialogue' (CBD), but no progress could be made in that direction because of the Pathankot attack. There was the hope that Foreign Secretary Aizaz Chaudhry's visit to Delhi last month to attend the Heart of Asia senior officials meeting, on whose sidelines he also met his Indian counterpart S. Jaishankar, would be an ice-breaker, however, no progress could be achieved. (ANI)

Jerusalem, May 20: Israeli Defence Minister Moshe Yaalon announced his resignation today, after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu offered his post to hardliner Avigdor Lieberman to expand his governing coalition. "I told the prime minister this morning that due to his conduct in recent developments, and in light of my lack of trust in him, I am resigning from the government and Knesset (parliament) and taking a break from political life," the former armed forces chief of staff said on Twitter.

Yaalon's surprise resig-

nation comes two days after former foreign minister Lieberman said he would be open to bringing his far-right Yisrael Beitenu party into Netanyahu's coalition if a number of conditions were met, including being named defence minister. Yaalon had been at loggerheads with Netanyahu over his insistence that senior officers be encouraged to "speak their mind." Reports said Netanyahu had been considering offering the retired lieutenant general the foreign ministry as a consolation although the offer was never made.(PTI)

3 killed, 6 injured in Kalikot landslide in Nepal Kathmandu, May 20: Three persons have died and six others were injuried when a landslide

struck two villages in Kalikot district in Nepal on Friday morning. The deceased have been iden-

tified as Dhanmatti Tamata of Syuna-2, Hira Tiwari of Syuna-5 and Laxman Bhandari of Dhaulagoha.

The Chief District Officer (CDO)Pradip Shrestha, the landslide that occurred at around 12:30 am buried 20 houses at Gaj Bazaar and Lalighat in Kotwada VDC in the district, reports The Himalayan Times. Shrestha informed that the injured have been sent to the District Hospital for treatment. The exact details of loss and damage to human lives and properties are yet to be established. (ANI)

PAGE 8

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 21

How Far Have India-US Ties Come After Two Years of Modi?

The win of Sarbananda Sonowal The sign of tearless Majuli After the 15th years of suffering and harassment from the Congress Govt. the world's biggest inhabited river island becomes a great treasure of problems and full of tears. It is needless to explain (Photo: about the rich multi-cultimesofindia.indiatimes) tural heritage and natural beauty of Majuli because it is well familiar to all over the world. Due to lake of proper planning and policy frame work with the ultimate methodic corruption of the Congress govt. Majuli have not got the chance to get the declaration of World Heritage Site and geographical security. But Majulians are in hope after BJP party coming to the central. Also the progress of the raw works for the declaration of the world heritage site already started under the patronise of honourable PM Narendra Modi and under the special initiative of the raising leader, Sarbananda Sonowal.

During the Lok Sabha election Sarbananda Sonowal has assured the Majulians that he will establish Majuli on the Global platform from all site. But after his win, the entire Majuli is in the hope of a new tearless picture of the suffered island- Majuli. Flood, erosion, communication etc. are common problem for the Majulian. Fortunately the central govt. has assured Majuli's Security and Protection from the erosion of the River Brahmaputra. Again, Majuli itself can be called as the hub of of potentialities, so for solving issues like unemployment problem Sarbananda Sonaowal may provide opportunities to solve this burning problem by promoting Majuli into a Tourism dwelling. Since tourism is one of the largest and fastest growing industry of the world as is said that within 15 minutes a new employee gets created. Tourism includes rural life to ultra-city life, so he may apply the international tourism policies to promote Majuli including academic to socio-economic fields.

Sattriya Culture and the ethnic culture of Majuli is really one of the most valuable properties for the entire India which attracts people from various parts of the world. By taking this advantage Sarabanada Sonowal may promote the cultural and handloom industries in Majuli, where a local Majulian artist can establish himself as an employee. During the period of corrupted leader like Rajib L. Pegu, it was seen that most of the funds which were meant for the beneficiaries were not put into proper use as some unwanted middle man got involved in fund distributing and siphoned off the public money. Many local people of Majuli are suffering due to this. But now the entire Majulians and especially the young generation are in hope of corruption free government from Sarbananda Sonowal.

India Could Have Gone Nuclear As Early as 1964 As early as 1964, the US intelligence community had concluded that India was in a position to develop nuclear weapons, a declassified State Department report said, citing frequent change of the fuel core of the Canada-supplied reactor at Trombay. The Indians are now in a position to begin nuclear weapons development if they chose to do so. We have no evidence, however, of a weapon research and development programme and would expect to see some if the programme existed.

The report along with several others was published yesterday by the National Security Archive and the Nuclear Proliferation International History Project.

Noting that the fuel core of the Canadian-Indian Reactor (CIR) at Trombay was being changed every six months, the US intelligence report had raised questions about India's nuclear objectives. It said a six-month period was quite short for "normal research reactor operations," but it was the optimum time for using the CIR's spent fuel for producing weapons grade plutonium. The report said the Canadians had not established specific safeguards when they made the reactor available to India thus giving the Indians a free hand in using the newly-built Phoenix plutonium separation plant to produce the fissile material.

According to the State Department report, India's leadership might have had nationalistic motives for building the Phoenix plant but if it wanted a nuclear weapons capability it would seek such a capability.

Whereas INR report said it had no "direct evidence" of an Indian weapons programme and believed it was "unlikely" that India had made a decision to build a bomb. Nevertheless, it was probably no accident that everything the Indians (had) done so far would be compatible with a weapons programme if at some future date it appeared desirable to start one. According to INR, India had taken the first deliberate decision in the series leading to a nuclear weapon, which was to have available, on demand, unsafeguarded weapons-grade plutonium or, at the least, the capacity to produce it. The report said that a scholar characterised this as India's proliferation drift, the slow but sure moves towards the development of nuclear weapons.

After two years in office, how far have India's ties with the United States come?

As Indian Prime Minister McCain and three cabinet Narendra Modi's govern- members flew to India to ment nears its two-year hold consultations about anniversary, it is worth tak- the bilateral relationship. ing stock of its foreign This followed visits by policy toward the United Senator Angus King, memStates, a much-hyped stra- ber of the Senate Armed tegic partner. Modi even Services and Intelligence has a strong personal rap- Committees, and Senator port with U.S. President Tim Kaine, chair of the Barack Obama. So then, Senate Foreign Relations where do India's political, Subcommittee on South defense, and economic re- and Central Asian Affairs. lations with Many such the United high-level Shivaji Kumar States stand visits from after two the United years of the Modi govern- States have since continment? So far, the score ued, engaging Indian card shows mixed results. policymakers and leaders The Modi government, at a steady pace. This trend over the past two years, has has accelerated considercertainly scored major vic- ably since Obama's visit to tories in building positive India last January, when he ties between India and the graced the Indian RepubUnited States. The prime lic Day celebrations as the minister himself has taken chief guest. At a political proactive measures to level, it is clear that there build a rapport with impor- have been significant imtant U.S. political leaders. provements in the bilateral He met Obama six times relationship. just in his first 24 months Defense relations have also in office and visited the continued their steady United States three times. pace. The United States Such is his relationship has for some time been the with Obama that he in- country with which India spired the leader of the conducts the largest nummost powerful country in ber of military exercises. the world to write a note This engagement is growsupporting him for Time ing in complexity and somagazine's 100 Most Influ- phistication. Issues of coential People list for the development and co-proyear 2015. duction of military equipInteractions among other ment have also gathered leaders in India and the some momentum, but have United States have also seen only modest progress picked up. Just over the over the past two years. past two years, U.S. Sec- Only a couple of low-end retary of Defense Ashton projects, such as the reCarter has met India's Min- search and development of ister of Defense four times. mobile electric hybrid Secretary of State John power sources and the Kerry has visited India next-generation protective twice and met Indian For- body suits, have been taken eign Minister Sushma up, with talk continuing of Swaraj several times. Sev- moving to other more seneral influential U.S. con- sitive technologies. The gressional committee recent signing in principle members have also visited of the Logistics Exchange India. Starting in the early Memorandum of Agreemonths of that new govern- ment (LEMOA) would alment, Senator John low mutual support for re-

fueling, supplies, and spare parts and is an important sign of both sides overcoming bureaucratic and other logistical hurdles in the pursuit of closer cooperation. In this direction, the creation of the India Rapid Reaction Cell in the Pentagon, the first countryspecific cell of its kind, for simplifying defense collaboration, is another small but significant step toward overcoming bureaucratic bottlenecks.

Of course, the India-U.S. bilateral defense relationship also depends on the sale of military equipment.

India in recent years has emerged as one of the most important export markets for the U.S. defense industry, with defense trade volume surpassing $10 billion dollars in the past decade.

In fact, the Indian market for U.S. defense products might expand considerably as India takes a second look at the Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet after downsizing a deal to buy French Rafale fighters. No numbers have been officially mentioned yet, and the deal may take years before producing any tangible results. Some conservative estimates suggest that India could be looking to purchase 100 to 150 Boeing jets. If this deal actually goes through, it has the potential to usher in a qualitatively different relationship-one not of buyerseller, but of co-producers.

The Modi government can justifiably take some credit for this change in Indian thinking.

Despite the advances in political and defense ties, one area that has not seen expected results after Modi's first two years is the India-U.S. economic relationship. Although data available from the U.S. Bureau of Economic

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with US President Barack Obama. The two leaders have announced to strengthen India-US relations . (Photo: ndiatimes) Analysis shows an upward trend in trade and investment ties, there is a growing feeling among political and economic observers that bilateral economic relationship has reached a plateau. A comparison between the last two years of the Manmohan Singh government and the first two years of the Modi government hits home this point.

According to the U.S. Department of Commerce's data, bilateral trade volume stood at $95 and $101 billion respectively in 2012 and 2013, with a net increase of $6 billion dollars between 2012 and 2013. However, under Modi, the improvements have been modest: $104 and a little over $107 billion in 2014 and 2015. The slow pace at which U.S.India economic ties have expanded under Modi is baffling and concerning.

This slow pace of economic cooperation is particularly concerning for two reasons. First, the Modi government ran on an electoral platform that emphasized boosting

India's economic standing in the world, which would have been difficult to achieve without strengthening economic ties with the world's largest economy. Modi's personal reputation as a businessoriented leader was considered a critical component in the achievement of this agenda. So far, that business-friendly reputation appears to have borne little fruit for India. Second, the Obama administration has expended tremendous effort on expanding economic and trade ties with Asian countries, as evidenced by the vigor with which it has pursued international trade pacts like the Trans-Pacific Partnership. The concern for India is that it might be left behind in Asia as the U.S. advances its trade agreements with other countries.

One adverse consequence for India could be that it would remain forever stuck in a middle-income trap, a promising economy never truly materializing its potential.

All said, the past two

years of the Modi government paint a mixed picture for the India-U.S. relationship. Defense ties have continued along a decisively upward trajectory of growth and sophistication, but economic ties have lagged behind. Indeed, the political relations between the two countries have benefited the most under Modi. The prime minister has built a good personal rapport with the U.S. president. In the United States, several high-level officials and leaders have shown interest in further improving relations with India. However, as the recent history of IndiaU.S. ties shows, when the political winds shift their course, it is ultimately the defense and economic ties that keep bilateral relations afloat. It is precisely these areas, particularly the economic component of the bilateral, that the Modi government must emphasize in its future policy toward the United States. Courtesy: The Diplomat

Food security Act: Centre to share half the burden of states in food transportation and handling The Centre has decided "Earlier, the transportato share up to 50 per tion and handling cost cent of the intra-state was transferred to the transportation and han- consumers. But now bedling costs of cause of NFSA, the cost foodgrains with states would be borne by the under the National Food government," a governSecurity Act ment official (NFSA), 2013. Jitendra told Down To NFSA guaranEarth. tees cheap foodgrains to It has also been decided two-thirds of the Indian to pay incentives to fair population. price shop (FPS) dealThe Cabinet Committee ers to encourage the use on Economic Affairs of point of sale (PoS) (CCEA), chaired by devices. These are maPrime Minister chines that enable cashNarendra Modi, on less transfers by swipWednesday approved ing cards. the expenditure and Under the Act, the fixed sharing pattern between price of rice, wheat and the Centre and states. coarse grains stands at

Rs 3, Rs 2 and Re 1 respectively. Before NFSA came into existence, Below Poverty Line (BPL) families used to get rice, wheat and coarse grains at Rs 5.65, Rs 4.15 and Rs 3 respectively. For Above Poverty Line (APL) households, the rates were Rs 8.30, Rs 6.10, and Rs 4.50 respectively.

Implementation of NFSA The Act should have been implemented within six months since its enactment in September, 2013. However, so far, NFSA has been implemented in only 11

states and Union Territories (UTs) across the country.

The implementation of NFSA in 25 other states had to be extended twice because of the non-compliance in identification of beneficiaries on time.

At first, it was extended to April 4, 2015 and now it has been extended to September 30, 2015.

"Because of the nittygritty, many states have not rolled out this Act. They are showing unwillingness," the official added.

Sharing the burden The estimated financial assistance likely to flow

to states and UTs would annually stand at Rs 4,341 crore after the Centre shares the costs.

At present, the estimated burden on the states' exchequers is around Rs 8,500 crore.

According to the decision, the Union government will share the expenditure up to 50 per cent in case of general states and 75 per cent in case of 13 special category states and UTs. The latter includes seven north-eastern states, Sikkim, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Uttarakhand and the

BJP's massive victory in Assam or they want new nationalist party in Assam, who can bring rapid growth and development to Assam? It is true that they don't want such type of leadership, who does not fit for the present contest. What people of Assam want, is a young dynamic leader, who can bring more job opportunities as well as skill development scheme in Assam. Because new young generation wants more jobs opportunities to be created in Assam. And secondly, people prefer a rapid growth in I.T. Sector in Assam besides a host of other factors. These are some of the major things, where most of the young voters keep on focusing .Through your esteemed daily, I want to pass the message to the newly formed government in Assam that the promises they had made before election to the people of Assam, if they can fulfill 50 percent of it in next five years, they can rule for another 10 years in Assam.

Flag of BJP (Photo: static.dnaindia) Sir, This time, the people of Assam gave an emphatic mandate, the BJP and its allies won by 87 votes in Assam's 126 assembly seats leaving behind the Congress, which ruled for the last 15 years. This is really a million dollar question for today, why the people of Assam want to change the 15 years ruling party in Assam. Is it that they don't want the leadership of Tarun Gogoi

Yours faithfully, Indrajit Sarma Chiring Chapori, Dibrugarh-1

Public grievances Sir, Through your esteemed daily I would like to bring in light the grievances of public of

Likabali-Gensi area against non availability of the Officer-in-Charge of PWD Division, Gensi.

I personally have had bitter experiences for couple of times, as whenever I have visited the said Office I have often found that most of the staffs in general and officers in particular remain out of the station. I have learned that the Officer-in charge attends office hardly 1 or 2 days in a month, which becomes difficult for the common public to discuss various matter related to the said Department. Here, I fail to understand whether as per Government leave Rule, can a Govt. Official avail leave for so many days in a month?

Therefore, I would like to request the concern Administrative Officer and Higher Authority of the concern Deptt. to look in to the matter and stream line as well as implement strict rule for every official/staff who fail to perform their entrusted duty sincerely so that the common public can have easy access on every official matter.

Yours etc Shri Linjum Doke Member Secretary, RTI Cell Galo Students' Union

UTs of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep.

The Centre has not taken any decision regarding cash transfer as yet. However, it has decided to pay incentives to FPS dealers worth Rs 17 per quintal of grains for using PoS devices.

The decision would pave the way for documentation of the Public Distribution System (PDS), which will help the government to reduce leakages and curb corruption. Courtesy: Down to earth

Best Letter The best letter of the month in the Letter to the Editor section will be awarded an amount of Rs 200.

So please keep writing.

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

p O

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 21

Page 9

ed

How 'Development' In Kerala Is Set To Create 2000 Jobs, But Destroy 50,000 Livelihoods I closed my eyes, taking "not many credible and in the soft breeze that experienced investors flows from the Arabian will be willing to bid for".

Sea, moving through and Did I mention the over the crashing waves. project's been greenlit for The rumble of lorries car- ?7,525 crores? Because rying tonnes and tonnes when you know that, you of heavy rocks to the sea- start to understand what's shore forms a droning underlying the Governbuzz, as ment t h e Anjana Radhakrishnan o f ground Kerala's bakes under the hot sun. baffling decision to sancThis is Vizhinjam since tion a project that will the beginning of port con- quite literally run the state struction. Mere months into debt with little prosago, Vizhinjam was one pect of realising any of the many small fishing profit. This is big money. villages which dot the A Closer Look beaches of The Government of Thiruvananthapuram. Kerala has justified this Today, it is a site of dis- massive expenditure by placement and upheaval. pointing out India's lack of 25 years ago, Govern- deep-water ports that can ment of Kerala approved handle trans-shipping and Vizhinjam Port, a international shipping deepwater, international needs as well as India's seaport project (you read reliance on ports in other that correctly - a quarter countries like Sri Lanka, of a century ago) that Singapore, and Malaysia only found a bidder in the which could one day beinfamous Adani Group in come, geopolitically probthis past June. The same lematic. Vizhinjam has a Adani Group that was naturally deep draft of 21forced to shut down in 24 metres and is located Gujarat for violating en- at the tip of the Indian vironmental guidelines, peninsula along internathat has been noted for its tional trade routes, which close ties with Prime makes it a strong candiMinister Narendra Modi date for port construction. and happens to be the All this translates to only bidder for a highly greater control and profrisky investment which its with respect to imports

and exports, strengthening international trade ties as well as a more 'developed' India.

However, the major stakeholders of the region - the fisherpeople, the tourism industry, and environmentalists- have registered strong disagreement with government actions and actively protested the project consistently over the past 25 years. Despite this, the Government of Kerala has allowed the Adani Group to begin work on Vizhinjam Port this past December. Since then, dredging and the construction of the breakwaters have been undertaken in earnest, already impacting the livelihoods of fisherpeople and tourism resorts along the Vizhinjam coastline. As work continues, further silting and erosion of the beachfront is expected as well as disruption of the already fragile ecosystem - which is not to even mention the direct human costs of displacement.

Although 18,000 cases seeking rehabilitation and compensation have been filed, the government has yet to make any payouts, citing the current election as reason for delays.

Lawyer Prashant Bhushan, who is representing a fisherman near Vizhinjam, has taken these issues of government oversight to the National Green Tribunal, which oversees cases regarding environmental issues. While Bhushan's team requested a stay on port work until the environmental impacts of the project were reassessed, the Supreme Court ruled instead that work would continue and that Adani Group and the Government of Kerala would be held responsible for "restoring the environment to its original position if the court thought it fit to interfere with construction activity". Any indication of how this sort of time travel would occur was not included in the ruling.

Who Wins, Who Loses?

Even a brief investigation into the Vizhinjam Port project makes it starkly clear that no one within the state of Kerala stands to benefit. As Adani Group will be bringing in their own trained employees, the net job creation for Keralites is estimated at

around 2,000. Compare that to the estimated 50,000 fisherpeople who stand to lose their livelihoods. Additionally, the thriving tourism industry, which has had heavy government investment and seen substantial, profitable returns stands to lose around 30 resorts, thousands of jobs and crores in revenues as The Hindu reports.

Additionally, the Kerala government has agreed to undertake the costs of all civil work under the public-private partnership model and will also be responsible for underwriting the rehabilitation and payment packages for displaced populations.

And of course, when I say the 'Government of Kerala', I don't mean the politicians who have approved these laws when I say the 'Government of Kerala' here, I mean the taxpayers of this state who will be subsidising a private enterprise, the taxpayers who will not be receiving any profits of this venture, the taxpayers who will not be able to get jobs through this project, the taxpayers who will be left with a destroyed environment in a state that is

Image for representational purpose (Photo: cdn.youthkiawaaz) already suffering from the impacts of 'development'.

And it's this word 'development' which prevents politicians and taxpayers and Indian citizens from standing up and questioning these kinds of decisions which stand to profit the very few at the very top. Because from the very beginning of our independence, we've been striving to reach the status of others, to reach a state of 'development'.

And that goal is very, very vague and very, very illusory.

A Meditation On Development You see, I'm an economics major. I've sat through these classes which ex-

plain away the uprooting of peoples, the destruction of land, the ever-increasing wrath of nature by using one simple word: 'development'.

And I've noticed that there is something undeniably seductive about the word - it seems to contain hope, progress, change, a brighter future - all within four syllables.

And this seductive idea of a better tomorrow, a prouder tomorrow - is what has allowed the Vizhinjam Port to continue work in Kerala despite the fact that those who stand to gain are very few and very removed and that the project represents heedless, government-sanc-

tioned destruction of an already fragile ecosystem in a state that is currently experiencing drought and intense heat waves. No one is ready to challenge the assumptions of development, the hope that it provides for India.

And I'm not saying that all development is bad - quality public education, gender equality, structurally sound housing for all - all these can be positive if done carefully and with justice, all these can take us to that better tomorrow. But Vizhinjam Port?

I don't think that that's what development should look like and I don't think that's what takes us to a better tomorrow. Courtesy: Youthkiawaaz

Old Equipment, Inefficient Staff: Why Govt. I am thrilled being directed by Film & TV Institute Students Are Protesting Aditya Chopra: Ranveer Singh The Government Film and riculum. The current gov- and the authorities delibTelevision Institute erning panel failed to con- erately tried to hold stu(GFTI), Hesaraghatta, struct an academic struc- dents back by putting 0% Bangalore, formerly ture suitable to the ethos attendance for that parknown as Sri of a film institute and in ticular subject. Students Jayachamarajendra Occu- contributing any kind of from other semesters also pational Institute, was es- valuable inputs to its fel- experienced similar attitablished by Dr M. low students. tude from other lecturers.

Visveswaraya in August In the past few years, For the last few years, the 1943. It is Asia's first film GFTI authorities have not students of GFTI have institute and has produced been conducting the re- been demanding legendary cinematogra- quired teaching and prac- upgradation of equipment, phers like V.K. Murthy, tical sessions as pre- and funds for student G o v i n d scribed by the projects. We are forced to Nihalani, B.C. Agin Basanth curriculum. buy or rent out profesGowrisanker, Students have sional audio and video Krishna, been forced to equipment which costs Sathya Hegde, Rajendra write semester examina- lakhs.

Kumar Hegde, Jomon T. tions without having the We even requested for faJohn, and Girish opportunity to attend cilities before the current Gangadharan, as well as classes. Many students semester began. We some of the finest sound have even been pushed to realised that sufficient engineers like Neelakanta, repeat a year by GFTI au- equipment is not available G V Somashekhar, Ms thorities. for pre-production and Geetha, to name a few. There are only two depart- post-production of the DiLots of graduates from ments in this institute, Cin- ploma Projects. Also, the institute are currently associated with the film, TV and entertainment industry.

Under a World Bank assisted program in 1996, Government of Karnataka decided to extract two departments, Cinematography and Sound Recording and Engineering from S. J. Polytechnic to form a separate film institute named as Government Film and Television Institute, with great infrastructure and was shifted to Image for representational purpose (Photo: Hesaraghatta over an area cdn.youthkiawaaz) of 25 acres.

However, the very exist- ematography and Sound what is available is incaence of the institute, due Recording, and Engineer- pable of supporting them. to sheer ignorance by the ing, which itself exposes We were shocked to see authorities of the institute, its half-boiled structure as unlicensed software in exis at stake now. GFTI is a film institute. Students isting post-production functioning under the are not getting a chance workstations and immediKarnataka state's Depart- to experience the totality ately notified the Principal ment of Technical Educa- of film studies or film- about all these issues. tion (DTE), which has making, which demands Distressed, disappointed failed to address several the support of depart- and unable to start the postissues. The guidelines cre- ments like Direction, production of their projects ated by DTE are ineffi- Script Writing, Editing, due to the unavailability of cient to support filmmak- Art Direction, Acting, the equipment, workstaing courses and no expert Colour Grading, etc. Four tions and licensed softideas were taken into con- out of six permanent staff ware, the students resideration while designing members are from an quested GFTI authorities the curriculum. electronics background. to postpone the date of the Unlike every other film in- On January 1st, sixth-se- examinations which was stitute in India, we don't mester students requested notified to start on 12th have an autonomous body the authorities to replace April. In reaction to this, on to control academic and a faculty member with 11th April GFTI authorities administrative affairs. The someone else to teach issued a notification on institute has not provided their subjects, as they 'Shortage of Attendance' essential facilities like up- knew of his unawareness stating that 18 students are dated equipment and ex- about cinematography. not eligible to appear for perienced faculty mem- No action was taken until their semester examinabers, pertinent to the cur- the end of the semester tions and they would be

pushed to repeat the year.

After FTII in Pune and BPFTIO in Orissa, we the students of GFTI started a protest from 12th April 2016 against a corrupt and baseless system that can kill the spirit of any lover of cinema who wishes to learn the craft.

We have the full support of senior alumnus as they have faced similar difficulties during their academic period.

As the Department of Technical Education (DTE) intervened, on 13th April an Enquiry Commission consisting of 2 members held a discussion with the students.

The commission collected individual reports from the students and promised us that action will be taken according to their report.

Three days later, the Students Council representatives directly met the Director of DTE, H.U Talwar and we got to know that no action was being taken. Later a fourmember commission came and repeated what the previous commission had done, and failed to address the real issues and their relevance.

After the Commission left, the Institute authorities internally tried to solve the issues by allowing all the students to appear for the exams which we did not agree to, for the benefit of the students who will join in coming years.

Later, on May 5 2016, we got an appointment to meet the minister of higher education of Karnataka, T.B Jayachandra. Eminent film personalities like Sri. Girish Kasaravalli, Sri. Rajendra Singh Babu and Sri. Sandeep Kumar also accompanied us to meet the Minister and to make him aware of the seriousness of the issues. He invited us to take part in a board meeting which included Vice-Chancellors of various universities in Karnataka, Director of Technical Education and Bharat Lal Meena, the Principal Secretary of the Dept. of Higher Educa-

tion. Even in the meeting, the officials tried to suppress our voices by diverting the attention of the board members from the real issue.

In the meeting, the minister himself appointed an enquiry commission headed by the Joint Director of DTE, which we strongly opposed. We demanded an independent body headed by Sri. Girish Kasaravalli and other eminent film practitioners and film academicians to study the issues. Till date. We do not know if our demands have been accepted or rejected.

We demand: o Practical and theory classes, workshops, master classes by film practitioners, film screenings and daily discussions. o Upgradation of library and equipment o Appointment of teaching faculty, staff and supporting staff who can teach and support filmmaking, Currently, we have one lecturer each for both cinematography and sound recording and engineering. o Resignation of all those staff members who aren't adequately qualified to teach and those who harassed the students. o Access to students' hostel, construction was completed last year but has still not opened up for students. o An autonomous body with film academicians, film practitioners, alumnus, student representatives, who should have direct contact with government. o Zero admissions until GFTI is turned into a full-fledged film institute. o For admission criterion, the minimum age limit must be 21 with proper entrance exams like other Film Institutes in India. o Addition of courses on Direction, Scripting, Editing, Production Design, Makeup, Acting, Production Management, Color Grading. Courtesy: Youthkiawaaz

Ranveer Singh, who is now shooting for Aditya Chopra's Befikre, is unfazed about all the attention around him and is focusing only on acting. He spoke to TWF correspondent Gaurav Sharma on films, life, his favourite directors and more You seem to be the man of the moment.

I am very chilled out with everything happening around me. I am happy with the kind of work I am doing and it really gives me immense satisfaction to learn that people are loving my work. So everything seems to be going the right way.

Are box office results and critical acclaim to your films the reason behind this confidence?

Not really. I am happy because I am getting the kind of work I want to do. I am neither confident nor do I want to be complacent because my films are working at the box office. I have always wanted to do certain kind of films and work with some people I have grown up watching and luckily I am being able to do both.

You are also liked by most of your co-stars.

I think I am liked by everyone. I have got lots of love from everyone, my co-stars, my fans and even those who I haven't worked with and I think it's because I too like and love them. I am a very simple person. I love talking to people, interacting with them and being a part of the crowd. this is something I have learnt from my father. Love is the biggest strength a person has with which he can overcome all barriers. I am never uncomfortable interacting with people. I can keep chatting with anyone for hours.

In fact, I enjoy doing that.

You are also known to be hyper energetic.

Yes, I think that is what keeps me going. I can't sit idle and that why you will find me talking to people all the time. that gives me a lot of positive energy. It is my way of keeping myself energised. I try to look at the positive side of life and that's why I am always seen doing something.

You have been part of some really good films in the last

few years.

(Laughs) I think I have been really very lucky to have got the chance. But more than anything, I would say I was given the chance. I don't come from a family of actor. I was very new to the industry but I got spotted by the right people and then some really good directors showed their faith in me. I am lucky to have worked with Yash raj Films and filmmakers like Sanjay Leela Bhansali, Maneesh

maker. "Befikre" is one of his ambitious projects and the way things are shaping up we all are really hopeful about the film. It is going to be really a very different kind of film. I am getting to know Aditya Chopra in a completely new way and we have really come very close. This film is certainly going to be one of the biggest releases in the months to come.

You will be seen alongside Vaani Kapoor in the film.

She too is full of energy

Bollywood Actor Ranveer Singh (Photo: static.koimoi) Sharma, Vikramaditya Motwane and Aditya Chopra.

You have become a favourite with Sanjay Leela Bhansali.

I really enjoy working with him. He is one of the few great directors we have in the country. He is in fact an artist and knows what he wants from his actors. But at the same time he is not like a strict taskmaster. He gives ample room to his actors and always open to improvisation. In fact, if you improvise, most of the time he retains those scenes.

He is a delight to work to.

And now Aditya Chopra too will be directing you.

Yes he has so far only worked with Shahrukh Khan and I am extremely thrilled about being directed by him. He is another filmmaker who has great sense of filmmaking and understands the pulse of the audience extremely well, which makes him such a successful film-

and I am really excited about working with her. The shoot has just begun and I am looking forward to some great time with her on the sets.

How do you go about choosing scripts?

There are quite a few things. Firstly, I choose the script only if I am able to relate to the character and believe in it. If I am not able to do so, I think the audience too won't be able to believe in it. Secondly, it's the director who is helming the project. Luckily, I have been able to collaborate with some of the best filmmakers, who are more like visionary and very confident about the product they want.

Are you happy with the way you career has shaped up?

(Laughs) I think it's still shaping up. I am trying to give my best and I am happy with the offers I am getting.

I hope I continue to get this kind of work. Courtesy: Trans World Features (TWF)

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 21

BUSINESS

Idea Cellular 4G LTE now in 61 towns of Karnataka ANI New Delhi, May 20: Idea Cellular, India's fastest growing telecom operator, announced the expansion of its hispeed 4G LTE service to 22 more towns in Karnataka circle, taking the total tally to 61.

Covering all major towns across all 27 districts, the company has increased its presence exponentially within a short span of time. In 29 out of these over 61 towns, Idea has also become the sole operator to provide 4G LTE ser-

IndiGo hires Rohit Philip as new Chief Financial Officer ANI New Delhi, May 20: IndiGo, the country's biggest airline by market share has announced the appointment of Rohit Philip as Chief Financial Officer. The appointment is effective from July 18, 2016 and will see Rohit succeed Pankaj Madan who is leaving IndiGo to pursue other interests.

"We are fortunate and excited at Rohit joining the IndiGo team. His enormous and varied experience and understanding of the airline industry will greatly strengthen our team as we continue to build a world class, national air transportation network," said Aditya Ghosh. "We thank Pankaj for his many contributions over the last eighteen months and wish him all the best in his future endeavors," he added. "I am delighted about joining the IndiGo team at this very exciting stage of the airline's journey. I am looking forward to coming back to the airline industry with one of the leading low cost airlines in the world," said former senior vice-president with United Airlines, Rohit Philip. Rohit will be joining IndiGo from Xerox Corporation based in Norwalk, USA, a leading global document management and business services company where he served as Corporate Vice President and Treasurer.

Rohit has formally been associated with United Airlines for 17 years where he was Senior Vice President, Corporate Strategy and Business Development. At United he also held various other senior executive roles including Vice President-Financial Planning and Analysis; Assistant Treasurer-Corporate Finance; and Vice President-Finance and CFO, Mileage Plus Holdings. Rohit is a 1995 MBA from Cornell University and a 1992 mathematics graduate from St Xavier's College, University of Mumbai.

Tata Group set to launch online marketplace 'CLiQ' ANI New Delhi, May 20: The Tata Group is set to open its gates to the ecommerce bus with the launch of its online marketplace by the end of this month 'Tata CLiQ'. The marketplace will integrate the online experience with omni-channel support at brick-and-mortar stores.

The new venture by arm Tata Unistore will initially focus on apparel, electronics and footwear. The saltto-steel conglomerate with combined sales of USD 108.78 billion has a presence in the retail segment through its arms Trent, which operates the Westside and Landmark chain of lifestyle stores, and Infiniti Retail, which operates the Croma chain of multi-brand electronics stores.

IN EVERY NOOK & CORNER Idea Cellular, India's fastest growing telecom operator, announced the expansion of its hispeed 4G LTE service to 22 more towns in Karnataka circle, taking the total tally to 61.

Covering all major towns across all 27 districts, the company has increased its presence exponentially within a short span of time. In 29 out of these over 61 towns, Idea has also become the sole operator to provide 4G LTE services.

Idea's world class 4G LTE service is available in the major towns of Mangalore, Hubli-Dharwad, Hospet, Udupi, Davangere, Hassan, Kolar, Tumkur, Bijapur, Bagalkot and Bidar, in addition to the existing towns of Bangalore, Mysore, Belgaum and Chitradurga; where services were launched earlier.

Idea's 4G network in Karnataka is built on a strong foundation of a total 2,450 4G sites and will continue to expand as more and more users join the Idea 4G LTE family.

vices. Idea's world class 4G LTE service is available in the major towns of Mangalore, HubliDharwad, Hospet, Udupi, Davangere, Hassan, Kolar, Tumkur, Bijapur, Bagalkot and Bidar, in addition to the existing towns of Bangalore, Mysore, Belgaum and Chitradurga; where services were launched earlier. Idea's 4G network in Karnataka is built on a strong foundation of a total 2,450 4G sites and will continue to expand as more and more users join the

Loss reported by Punjab National Bank

Kolkata, May 20: The public-sector Punjab National Bank, recently reported a loss of Rs. 5,367 crore for the March quarter, the biggest-ever quarterly loss reported by an Indian bank.

During the corresponding period in the previous year, the bank made a profit of Rs. 307 crore, but bad loans more than doubled during the period under review. The With better consumer gross non-performing asoffers and affordable sets of the bank increased tariff plans, we aim to by Rs. 30,000 crore in provide the best-in-class 2015-16 to Rs. 55,818 experience to our sub- crore, which is now 12.9 scribers in the region, per cent of its gross adsaid Chief Operating vances compared with 6.55 cent a year ago. Net Officer - Karnataka per NPAs jumped to 8.61 per IdeaCellular, Siva cent as against 4.06 per Ganapathi. cent. Between January and

Idea 4G LTE family.

"As a part of aggressive roll out of Idea's 4G LTE service, our focus has remained on providing our customers with world class mobile broadband experience coupled with superior service delivery.

Ola signs MoU with govt. to benefit 'Safai Karamcharis' ANI New Delhi, May 20: Mobile app for transportation Ola signed an MoU with National Safai Karamcharis Finance and Development Corporation (NSKFDC) established under the aegis of the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment to focus on building a sustainable framework by supporting entrepreneurship, skill development training and self-defence courses for Safai Karamcharis and Scavengers. The OlaNSKFDC partnership has the potential to generate synergies that will result in a better future for driver entrepreneurs by creating sustainable careers and livelihoods for them. The MoU was signed in the presence of Thaawarchand Gehlot,

Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment. Aimed at socioeconomic development of Safai Karamcharis/ Scavengers, the MoU will aim at benefitting these people and their dependents by enabling livelihood opportunities, especially for women beneficiaries identified by NSKFDC. "We are confident that our partnership with Ola will help us in meeting our objective of social and economic empowerment of women by creating job/self-employment for these women, belonging to the families of Safai Karamcharis," said Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment, Thaaw archand Gehlot. "The self defence training taught during the training will instill self-confidence not

Thaawarchand Gehlot, Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment. (Photo: sarkarimirror)

only among these women drivers, but will also give a sense of security to the riders, particularly those who are traveling at odd hours. This initiative of NSKFDC, serves the twin purpose of security for women and their economic empowerment,

which is the top most priority of the government," added Thaawarchand Gehlot. Ola, as a technology platform will help create opportunities for these trained drivers by giving them access to infrastructure, financing and continuous revenue.

Ola aims to add 10,000 driver-partners on its platform over the next five years by mobilizing, training and engaging with aspirants through such partnerships. Under this MoU, Ola will facilitate driver-partner micro-entrepreneurship opportunities on its platform for those who are identified and trained by NSKFDC. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has been training women as part of its commercial motor driving training programme with self defence skills. Ola will also help these trained women with opportunities like assistance in buying a car directly from manufacturers with the support of financial institutions that it has partnered with as well as placement as private drivers.

Radisson Blu Noida launches 'timeless' luxurious Prive Collection

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: blog.bytplus) ANI New Delhi, May 20: Noida's first 5-star deluxe property, the Radisson Blu MBD Hotel, Noida, has launched their all-new MBD Prive Collection, which offers the highest level of luxury and comfort way beyond your expectations, with a grand celebration and an ultimate uber luxury experience at the luxurious property amidst the creme de la creme of Delhi-NCR. The syn-

ergy of timeless craftsmanship and modern engineering is sure to make the MBD Prive Collection a unique address for discerning travellers in Delhi-NCR. The evening began with picking up guests in chauffeur driven premium luxury cars presenting an exotic treat of leisure, followed by a tour of ostentatious collection of rooms that were tastefully decorated to suit the distinct guest moods in the world

of luxury: work on a marvelously crafted writing desk, white glove dinner service, signature morning tea service and turn down service with signature aroma in bathtub.

Each mood was depicted in bespoke style with customized light setting and theme music in each room type to give the perfect feel. This tour culminated in a specially curated dinner service with champagne and a beautiful Harp & Flute duo instrumental live performance. The rooms have been designed in the best Venetian and French traditions as the decorative scheme encapsulates centuries with styles alternating between those from the Victorian to the most contemporary, which makes its appearance timeless and eclectic.

Each furniture piece is bespoke and finished

meticulously with gold carvings that date back to the 1800s. All the decorative lights, including goosenecks, table lamps, chandeliers and standing lamps are handpicked for their unique character and presence to heighten the elegance of the elaborately designed rooms.

Quintessentially, the features in the new range include rich fabrics, high beds with footstools, elegant bathroom fittings, modern amenities and neoclassical carpets.

The detailed craftsmanship in ceilings and walls creates interesting design elements at the MBD Prive Collection.

Each room in this brand new MBD Prive Collection defines uber luxury as it emulates the fashion and impeccable interiors of rococo style while staying true to its Indian roots by blending

it with heavy lush embroidery and authentic 'dabka' work on draperies and cushions. Comprising of 33 elaborately designed rooms that are lavishly furnished to ensure an unprecedented level of luxury and hospitality experience for the guests, with the bespoke personalized services catering to their individual needs, Radisson Blu MBD Hotel Noida is all set to establish the finest and the most revered hospitality benchmark in the city. With this new addition, the Radisson Blu MBD Hotel, Noida has redefined luxury and comfort and is soon going to become the first choice in Delhi-NCR for anyone travelling for business and pleasure by exceeding the expectations of those looking to indulge themselves in an effortless, regal and opulent stay experience.

Tiens Group expands in India with South Asian headquarters in Delhi ANI New Delhi, May 20: Chinese multinational conglomerate Tiens Group inaugurated its South Asian headquarters in New Delhi making the Indian capital the centre of its major expansion plans across the region. Recognized as one of China's 'Top 500 Most Valuable Brands' in 2013, Tiens Group has a business presence reaching across 190 countries with active interests in a wide range of business domains including

bio-tech, education, retail, tourism, finance, international trade and e-business, etc. The Chinese conglomerate, which already conducts business in India, today formally inaugurated its headquarters in Delhi signalling major plans for expansion across the Indian market. The New Delhi office will serve as the company's South Asia Headquarters, and will cater to the organization's business across the region.

The inauguration ceremony

was conducted in the presence of Kevin Hou, President of Tiens South Asia Region as well as the India leadership of the company.

"We see this as a major leap in our global expansion plans including across the Indian subcontinent. India is a huge market with a 300 million strong middle class hungry for a variety of world class goods and services. At Tiens, we plan to tap the huge Indian market in a big way over the next five years. Having a head-

PAGE 10

quarters in New Delhi gives us a direct presence in India and allows us to take a more aggressive expansion approach across the South Asian region," said Kevin Hou, President of Tiens South Asia Region. In 2015, the Group's founder Li Jinyuan celebrated the company's 20 years, by organizing a unique all-expenses paid trip for more than 6,000 of the company's employees, earning him the epithet of the 'world's most generous

boss' by international several media houses who actively covered the episode.

Li was ranked by Forbes as the 24th richest person in Chinawith an estimated wealth of USD 1.2 billion.

A total of 6,400 employees of Tiens Group were given a private tour of the Louvre museum in Paris and later visited the southern French town of Nice where they broke a Guinness World Record for forming the largest human sentence.

Image for representational purpose. (Photo: thehindu)

March, gross NPAs increased by over Rs. 21,000 crore. "Major cleansing has happened in the NPA book.

Now, we have to work for the recovery and upgrade of accounts," Usha Ananthasubramanian, Man-

aging Director and Chief Executive Officer of the bank. She said the bank hoped that the stress would remain at the same level, if not lower, but added that it was difficult to say "the bad days are over". (Agencies)

TravelKhana revamps app for easy order at internet-free zones

CEO and Co-founder of TravelKhana, Pushpinder Singh. (Photo: indiaretailing) ANI New Delhi, May 20: The first India-wide marketplace enabling food ordering for travellers in transit TravelKhana.com has launched its newly revamped app with improved user interface designed app with enhanced ordering capabilities. The new app will enable customers to order in offline mode to facilitate users in ordering food without any hassles of using the internet. Based on the concept of virtual QSR, the offline mode of TravelKhana app is devised to ensure that a transaction is completed within 30 seconds. It detects the forthcoming train trips to offer quick access to trip related information and facilitates the customers in booking their favourite food for their journey. "The latest and enhanced TravelKhana App is completely redesigned keeping our users' convenience in mind.

We've made the app more order-centric, based on the demands of our customers, making it easier to use and faster to place an order. This enhancement is just one part of a holistic technology strategy to boost the food ordering experience on our platform, allowing better sales for TravelKhana," said TravelKhana, Pushpinder Singh. The only food aggregator that has back to back integration with IRCTCs platform, is making it possible for travellers to get access to lipsmacking fare prepared by various restaurants on route their journey. All the restaurants are selected and verified by TravelKhana.com personnel across various stations.

The entire process is managed by a completely automated workflow that sends real-time reminders to passengers as well as restaurants so that the entire process can take place in a seamless and swift manner.

Upgraded 7-seater SUV GLS 350d unveiled by Mercedes Benz New Delhi, May 20: German luxury carmaker Mercedes-Benz launched an upgraded version of its seven-seater sports utility vehicle GLS 350d in India, priced at Rs 80.4 lakh (ex-showroom Pune).

"India has growing penchant for SUVs and at 100 per cent growth achieved in 2015, it was the highest growing segment for us," Mercedes-Benz Managing Director and CEO Roland Folger told reporters here. The model would be assembled at the company's Chakan (Pune)

based manufacturing facility, he added. Folger said the GLS has contributed to the success of the company's SUV portfolio in a significant way. "India has also emerged as one of the top ten markets for the GLS globally," he added. This is the company's fourth model launch in the country out of the 12 planned for this year. The model, which is above 2,000 cc, would not be sold in Delhi-NCR market due to the ban imposed by the Supreme Court.

(Agencies)

UPGRADED VERSION German luxury carmaker Mercedes-Benz launched an upgraded version of its seven-seater sports utility vehicle GLS 350d in India, priced at Rs 80.4 lakh (ex-showroom Pune).

The model would be assembled at the company's Chakan (Pune) based manufacturing facility.

This is the company's fourth model launch in the country out of the 12 planned for this year.

The model, which is above 2,000 cc, would not be sold in Delhi-NCR market due to the ban imposed by the Supreme Court.

DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 21

Features

PAGE 11

WOMEN’S The *PRETTIEST* haircuts for long hair 6 gorgeous mandap ideas those Ladies, as much as we love long hair, it's easy to for your mane to border on boring when you've got so much length. So we help you get out of that boring hair rut with the prettiest haircuts for long hair.

Keep your gorgeous length with a cool, nonboring style for flip-worthy, enviable locks. Go on and let down your hair, Rapunzel.

Simple, subtle and sexy Show me a girl who couldn't help but lust after Jennifer Aniston's hair in FRIENDS! Even her simple long hair showed us how flattering long layers can be.

Keep your layers long, they should begin between your chin and shoulder - it's a cut that flatters any hair texture and face shape.

Va va volume Long hair has a tendency to fall flat because the length weighs it down.

Layers around your crown and chin help add plenty of volume on top.

A perfect hair cut is the key to a beautiful look.

(Photo: hypemyhair) With a cut like this, you can also backcomb your crown for gorgeous bouffant-like volume that's so retro-esque.

Bang it!

We told you full bangs are so hot this year, and

a statement fringe is perfect for changing up a boring look instantly. If you don't want to flat iron your bangs all the time, don't worry, texturized bangs are totally having their mo-

ment in 2016. So scrunch them to be totally on trend and never run the risk of looking boring again!

Front layers for fine hair Heavy layers around the face and few ones at the back is super flattering, especially if you have fine hair as it brings plenty of weight and volume to otherwise wispy strands. The best part about face-framing layers is that you can place them strategically to flatter your face shape. For an oval and heart shaped face they should start at the cheekbones, for a square shape they should start above them, and for a round face below the cheekbones.

Choppy, unblended layers Love the slightly messy, straight-out-of bed look?

We do too! It's sexy and has an effortless charm to it. For the trendy bed head look, talk to your stylist about choppy, rough lay-

ers. These are unlike regular layers that blend in seamlessly with the rest of your strands. Ask her to texturize the ends for loads of movement as well. It's an edgier style and looks great on wavy locks.

Super long, long hair Really want cascading, Rapunzel-esque locks?

Then hair that is mostly one length - except for a few layers around the face - is the trick. This looks best on hair of medium thickness; avoid it if you have fine hair as it runs the risk of looking too limp. Tapered ends are also a great idea to avoid it looking too heavy.

Gorgeous tight curls Want voluminous, natural curls? You need beautifully blended round layers across your head.

They should be in the middle, that's where the majority of the volume should be; definitely not on top but from the mid lengths to ends. This is perfect for wild curls that are oh-so-gorgeous.

10 beauty mistakes a monsoon bride must avoid!

Getting married during the rains seems like a dreamy affair. The air is cooler and the atmosphere is just so romantic. Like there are cons to every pro, so goes the same with your makeup.

To look oh-so-fabulous during a monsoon wedding, you need to know what kind of makeup works and what doesn't.

Here are 10 beauty mistakes to never make at a monsoon wedding!

smudge, but also melt off the face. A safer option would be to use powdered eye shadows.

The kind that comes in shades of champagne, pink, brown, mauve and beige. You won't need to worry about them fading in the wet weather.

styles for a monsoon wedding. Always keep a few bobby pins in your purse, you never know when they can come in handy to salvage a hairdo gone wrong if you accidently get wet.

Don't pick up that kajal!

Gel and waterproof eyeliners are the best to use during the monsoon. If you're loyal to using kohl and kajal, make sure that they're smudge-proof. To make your eyeliner last longer, use an eyeliner pencil first, and then apply the gel eyeliner

glitter you have on your face, the more prone to oil and shine you become! If you've chosen to use a blush, the key is to use less product and blend more. Matte bronzers too are wise picks.

Skipping the powder Oil absorbing powder is what will work wonders for your skin during the monsoons and keep your makeup in place.

You can also use this Avoid using creampowder to set and blend based makeup prodfoundation evenly. This ucts will make your makeup While cream-based stay matte and last blushes do a pretty delonger.

Not washing your face too often We know how hectic weddings can get. So hectic that sometimes you forget to wash your face often and thoroughly enough! You want your skin to look clean and healthy and not oily and grimy so always make it a point to take off your makeup.

Twice a day, you should wash your face with a cleanser suited to your skin type. While you're at it, don't forget to exfoliate too. It helps remove layers of dead skin cells and makes your skin clean and ready for wedding makeup. Amazing, right?!

Not moisturizing enough If you want your skin to look healthy at the wedding, you've got to moisturize! If you don't Getting married during the rains seems like a dreamy affair and by adopting do this already, wash few simple techniques, your day will never great spoilt. (Photo: livemint) your face and use a water-based moisturizer cent job at lasting for soons, an elaborate hair- over it. Works like a twice a day. This habit longer on the face, style might become too charm every time! should make your skin cream-based eye shad- difficult to redo and Keep away from shim- baby soft and smooth. ows do the exact oppo- maintain. Bangs and mer and glitter Forget about using stylsite! They not only layers are ideal hair- The more shimmer and ing products or considThe more elaborate the hairstyle, the more troublesome it is to handle Simple and easy-tostyle hairstyles are what will fetch you brownie points at a monsoon wedding. Since hair is prone to getting damp and frizzy in the mon-

ering hair treatments Try to keep away from styling products and hair treatments during the rains because it damages hair texture.

This can cause dandruff and make your hair frizzy and dry.

Stick to using a mild shampoo and a great hair conditioner as it helps to restore volume.

Cut down on foundations and concealers As much as most of you love using foundations and concealers, the monsoons are not the best time to use them. The moisture makes your face sticky.

If you still can't do without them, use waterproof liquid or gelbased foundations.

Better options are BB and CC creams, mousse or souffle products as they are so much lighter on your skin. Always remember that before applying any product to your skin, use a primer. It helps tone the skin and minimize pores. It also gives your skin a naturally radiant look.

Glossy lipsticks are a BIG "no!"

Glossy lipsticks are known to fade and smudge during the rains.

A wiser choice for you is to stick to a matte lipstick. It's not only perfect for the rains, but will also last longer on the lips.

Shades like coral, mauve, marsala, hot pink, red and fuchsia are perfect monsoon shades.

Tip: To make your lipstick last even longer, apply a coat of lip balm first and then gently apply the matte shade over it.

are perfect for your big day

The shaadi ka mandap is that special place where you take the saat pheras and commit to being husband and wife. And this special place deserves to be done up in the most spectacular way. Here are 6 pretty mandap decor ideas that we totally loved and are sure you'll like too!

A dreamy decor A frame that's covered with thick bunches of green leaves, an assortment of pink and white flowers and strings of beads and mogra hanging from the top. Now what could be dreamier than this?! But what adds all the extra charm is the candle wall as the backdrop. It's just so pretty!

And it was all red A mandap that's all red and made entirely of gorgeous red roses. How very lovely! Delicate strings of jasmine add just a hint of white to this grand wedding mandap. For the bride who loves the traditional shaadiwala red, this might just be it!

Minimal yet stylish It's minimal and what we love most is the open air design. For an easy breezy morning phera ceremony by the beach, this is the best you could get! Moving away from the usual pinks, orange and reds, the purple drapes sure make an impact. Loaded with purple hydrangeas, carnations and roses, it makes for a pretty picture.

The mirror effect Modern, sophisticated and enchanting, this mandap with mirrors is nothing like we've ever seen be-

Every bride or bridegroom wants their "shaadi ka mandap" to be the best ever anyone has seen.

(Photo: weddingokay) fore. And we have to admit, it does look very interesting! Coupled with lush purple florals, this is one design we hope to see a lot more this wedding season.

All out traditional This one looks straight out of the sets of Jodha Akbar.

If you've always wanted to get married just like the Rajput maharanis, then we're sure you'll love this setup. The frame of a mahal, complete with temple bells, matkas and gold drapes, this one's a

show stealer for sure!

A delicate delight A white and blush pink mandap is pretty in every little way. Blush pink bells made of tissue cloth and gota form the main part of the mandap ‌ and it's gorgeous! The upper half is done up with the season's favourite - delicate jasmine strings and what a sight it is! If I could have my wedding all over again, this is just how I would like my mandap to be. So pretty!

7 super tips to sweat less this summer (and avoid body odour!)

Sure, the sun shine can help brighten up a bad mood, but super high temperatures coupled with humidity can turn you into a puddle of sweat. Being a hot mess when you mean "hot" literally isn't such a good thing!

Even worse is when all that sweat is accompanied with body odor. Hello, embarrassment central! If you know the feeling too, here are 7 ways to stop sweating and prevent body odor.

Say no to spice Did you know that spicy food makes you sweat more? That's why you should cut it out of your diet.

Garlic, cloves and onions

fruits too!

Shower more often!

If you tend to sweat too much and have an odor issue, then, you should be showering more often. Instead of once a day, make it twice or even thrice in this sticky weather. Pick an antibacterial or deodorant soap as it will wipe the odorcausing bacteria away and it make you feel fresh and smell yum.

Baby wipes and deo to the rescue Especially when you're travelling, make sure you're carrying baby wipes and your handy deodorant always with you. They're perfect for

Always stay dry If you keep yourself dry, the odor causing bacteria will have a hard time breeding.

They will ultimately die from absence of moisture.

Changing out of sweat clothes often, air-conditioned rooms, antibacterial powder and relaxation can beat the stress and the sweat at the same time!

Drink water all day, every day Since water is a neutral substance, it helps reduce the formation of bacteria in the intestines and skin pores. In addition, it also helps flush the toxins from the body and improves the texture of the

Body odour and sweating during the summer can be quite embarrassing. (Photo: http://bodiesofwater.solutions) (which are basically part of EVERY Indian dish) are not only difficult for your body to digest, but they also make you sweat a lot. They make your sweat smell somewhat unpleasant too. That's why you need to change the way you eat. Eat food that's a little less spicy and masaledar, boiled or steamed. Don't forget to eat your fresh vegetables and

quick touch-ups and you can instantly feel fresh after you use either of them.

Time for a wardrobe makeover Ditch the synthetic clothes; opt for cotton or athletic clothing instead. These fabrics absorb moisture and don't irritate the skin. Loose clothing instead of bodyhugging clothes is a wise choice.

skin. The more water you drink, the better!

Try some acv!

When comes to destroying odor-causing bacteria, apple cider vinegar is the best!

Since it is too harsh to use on the skin directly, you will have to dilute it with water.

Put the solution in a spray container and spray it on your underarms or feet to smell fresh and feel way fresher.

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DIBRUGARH, SATURDAY, MAY 21

PAGE 12

Raina hails Dwayne Smith's spell post crucial win over KKR ANI Kanpur, May 20 : Gujarat Lions skipper Suresh Raina has showered praise on team-mate Dwayne Smith by describing him as the `main allrounder` after his fourwicket haul helped the side to claim a six-wicket win over Kolkata Knight Riders here at the Green Park Stadium last evening.

Put in to bat first, Gautam Gambhir's side were restricted to mere 124 runs in their stipulated 20 overs, with Dhawal Kulkarni, Dwayne Bravo and Shadab Jakati also chipping in with a wicket each.

In reply, Gujarat Lions

Gujarat Lions skipper Suresh Raina chased down the target in just 13.3 overs, thanks to their skipper for his unbeaten 53 off 36 balls.

"I think the last two games are really important for us.

When you are in doubt to reach top four, then you have to win each and every game. I think Smith had bowled really well. I have always felt he is not

the main batsman, but he is always a main allrounder. He has always hit the ball really hard.

At the same time, when he chips in and bowl crucial four overs that set the game for us," the lefthanded bastman said after the win.

Raina, however, called on his side to continue to maintain their momentum if they want to keep alive their hopes of making into the play-offs.

The match also saw Raina snatch back his record of being the highest run getter in the tournament from Royal Challengers Bangalore skipper Virat Kohli by smacking an 87-metre six off Morne Morkel's deliv-

ery.

On Wednesday, Kohli became the tournament's highest run scorer and the first batsman to score 4000 IPL runs after he smashed an unprecedented fourth century of the season during his side's 82-run win by Duckworth-Lewis method over Kings XI Punjab at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

With the win, Gujarat Lions have climbed up to the second spot in the points table, with eight wins from 13 games they have played so far.

Gujarat Lions will play their next match against Mumbai Indians at the same venue on Saturday.

Indian shooters eyeing favourable outing in Munich ANI Munich, May 20 : Ace Indian shooter Abhinav Bindra will lead the 25-member Indian shooting contingent, comprising of 17 shooters and eight officials, in the third leg of the International Shooting Sport Federation ( ISSF) World Cup (Rifle/Pistol), to be held here at the Olympic Shooting Range from May 19 to May 26.

A total of 738 shooters from 88 countries are expected to participate in the tournament.

In the two Rifle/Pistol Word Cups held so far in 2016, India has secured one Gold medal in the form of Jitu Rai's top effort in Bangkok earlier this year.

Jitu, a 28-year old army marksman, not only won the Men's 50M Pistol Gold in Bangkok but also reached the world number one ranking post the effort.

With just three months left to the Rio Games, all Indian eyes will be on the Shooters selected

Ace Indian shooter Abhinav Bindra for the Olympic squad and will give fans a good sense of their preparations going into the Games.

Apart from Abhinav and Jitu the other shooters in the World Cup team who will also be heading to Rio include the likes of Gagan Narang, Chain Singh, Apurvi Chandela and Ayonika Paul in Rifle as well as Gurpreet Singh,

P.N.Prakash and Heena Sidhu in the Pistol events.

The sport of shooting have secured a record 12 quota berths for the Rio Olympics which is their highest ever.

A fourth and final World Cup stage will be held in Baku, Azerbaijan next month, which will be the last international event for the Shooters before the Olympics.

Nehwal and co. settle with bronze in Uber Cup Education and on-field performance is linked: PCB Chief

Saina Nehwal-led Indian women's team ANI after going down 0-3 ize on her second-game Jiangsu, May 20 : Saina against China, who ap- win and ended up with a Nehwal-led Indian peared to be at their men- 15-21, 21-12, 17-21 dewomen's team had to acing best in the semifi- feat against Li Xuerui in the opening match of the settle with the bronze nals. medal in the Uber Cup Nehwal failed to capital- semi-final contest that

lasted for one hour and four minutes.

P.V. Sindhu, who had not lost a single match in the tournament, could not manage to produce the similar kind of performance as she had displayed in the previous matches and went on to suffer a 13-21, 21-23 defeat against21-13, 23-21.

After winning the first two matches, China needed just one more win to storm into the finals. The Chinese pair of Tian Qing and Zhao Yunlei did not miss the chance and eased past Indian pair of Jwala Gutta and Sikki Reddy 21-6, 21-6.

India will play two more inconsequential matches against China later today.

PTI Karachi, Nay 29 : The PCB Chairman Shaharyar Khan says absence of educated players in the national team was one of the reasons for its recent poor performance.

Talking to the media in Quetta, Khan said that presently only Misbah-ul-Haq was a proper graduate in the team.

"There is no graduate player in the team right now except for Misbah and the absence of educated players in the team is a primary reason for its recent downfall," he said.

"In future we will do our best to induct and encourage educated players into the team and also groom the existing lot of talent," he said.

The PCB chief also admitted that the Board had decided to make no compromises now on disciplinary issues.

"Ahmed Shehzad and Umar Akmal have not been selected because of disciplin-

PCB Chairman Shaharyar Khan ary issues and we want to make it clear in future we are not going to compromise on discipline or fitness," he said.

"That is why we have had fresh fitness tests and now the boot camp under supervision of military trainers in Kakul before the team leaves for England," he said.

The PCB chief also admit-

ted that Pakistan need to pay more attention to its under19 cricket and recently there were debatable selections in the squad for the World Youth Cup in Bangladesh.

"It has come to our notice that some deserving players were left out to bring in less deserving ones and we are going to take strict action against those re-

sponsible for this. In future selection will be strictly merit and performance based."

He said this was one reason why the PCB was bringing in former test player Mudassar Nazar into the National cricket Academy in Lahore.

"There is no more qualified coach than Mudassar to supervise our grassroot cricket and he has made a big sacrifice by agreeing to resign from a lucrative coaching assignment in the ICC in Dubai and join us."

Khan also spoke about inviting the Afghanistan team to Quetta, the capital city of Baluchistan province.

"The security situation has improved in Baluchistan and Quetta and we are planning to set up a full fledged regional cricket academy in Quetta to tap the raw cricket talent in the province," he stated

Van Gaal insists FA Cup triumph essential for Man U

Louis van Gaal ANI London, May 20 : Ahead of the FA Cup final clash against Crystal Palace, embattled Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has said winning the silverware is essential for his side, not only for his own future but also for the sake of club's players and supporters.

Besides Community Shield title three years ago, United have not won the silverware since former manager Sir Alex Ferguson secured the Premier League title in his final season in charge in 2012-13.

Van Gaal's job has been under scrutiny following the club's inconsistent performance in this season and due to their early exit from the Champions League.

"I think the interest of the club is much more important, and the interest of the fans.You put your own aims, of course, and that's one of the aims I've always had," Van Gaal was quoted as saying by goal.com.

"I think the fans are more concerned about the title than I am because a title for the fans is fantastic and we want to give it. I said that in my speech on

the pitch. They were always there, unconditional. They've never let us down. They deserve it more than anyone else," he added.

However, United are now on verge of winning a title after they made their place to the FA Cup final by claiming a 21 victory over Everton.

Reflecting on the same, the Dutchman said his side had only made it to the finals and still one step away from winning the title.

"It's always important to win silverware. Qualification is not a title - a title is the FA Cup, the championship. For players, it's very important, because they can hold the cup, and that's an exciting moment. Especially in England, because the FA Cup is a big title. It's the most prestigious temple of England," he added.

Van Gaal further said that his side's away victories prior to the semi-final win depicts that the Old Trafford club deserved to be in the finals.

United will aim for the FA Cup glory when they will take on Crystal Palace at the Wembley Stadium on Saturday.

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