September 26, 2016, Monday

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ASSENG/2015/64205

Vol. II

Issue 73

Dibrugarh, Monday, September 26, 2016

5.00

Pages- 12

CURFEW LIFTED FROM ALL PARTS OF KASHMIR

EQUAL FREEDOMS FOR MEN AND WOMEN — THAT’S INDEPENDENCE: LAXMI, ACID ATTACK SURVIVOR

STATE BJP CELEBRATES PT. DEEN DAYAL UPADHYA BIRTH CENTENARY

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ET CAPSULES BJP president Amit Shah praises CM Sonowal Guwahati, Sep 25: BJP national president Amit Shah today highly praised Sarbananda Sonowal and the Govt. of Assam in front of all representatives assembled for national council meeting at Kozhikode, Kerala.

Shah praised Sarbananda Sonowal for his quality and dynamic leadership and the Govt. of Assam for taking the courageous step in evicting the illegal encroachers from forest land of Kaziranga National Park.

He also praised the CM for taking action in inspecting Indo-Bangla international border both through surface roads as well as the water routes along with a number of MLA’s and senior officials.

The celebration of this year’s Independence Day with a three days colourfull programmes with mass participations from all strata of people across the state inspite of having the problem of terrorisms in the state was also highly praised by the BJP national president. (Staff Reporter)

old makes National Operation Shaurya flags off by 7 years record in swimming CM Khandu to scale Mt Kangto ET Correspondent Sivasagar, Sept 25

Kashmiri Choudhary, a 7 years, six month old child received certificate and award from the officials of Indian Book of Records for making the National record in swimming in the Asia's biggest man-made Joysagar Tank for 7 hours 49 minutes today in Sivasagar, India.

A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Sept 25

Chief Minister Pema Khandu today flagged off Operation Shaurya –a joint expedition to the highest mountain peak of Arunachal Pradesh –Mount Kangto, from the North eastern Frontier Headquarter, ITBP at Khating Hill in Itanagar.

At a height of 7042 meters above sea level in East Kameng district, Mount Kangto (also known as Kanggardo Rize) is a mountain in the Eastern Himalayas; located at the border of North East Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh and the Tibet Autonomous Region of China.

The entire area is claimed by China as part of Southern Tibet, but the claim is contested by India. The disputed area in which Kangto is located, would lie in the Tibetan county of Cona under the Chinese claims, but lies in East kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh under the Indian Administration.

At least four known attempts have been made to scale the peak of Mount Kangto –twice by the Indian Mountaineering Federation,

Chief Minister Pema Khandu flagged off Operation Shaurya from the North eastern Frontier Headquarter, ITBP at Khating Hill in Itanagar. and once each by the National Institute of Mountaineering & Allied Sports, Dirang in 2014, and the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in the late 80s.

However, no expedition has been able to move further then Bisai, which is the last sparsely human-inhibited area.

This time around, the Ministry of Home Affairs has given the Indo Tibet Border Police (ITBP) Force the responsibility to scale the peak, along with members from the

SWACHH BHARAT ABHIYAN IN TINSUKIA

Indian Mountaineering Federation (IMF). There will be 30 ITBP personnel, including Everester Lobsang Sherpa, an ITBP Inspector of 48th Battalion, Katihar and two IMF members.

Informing of the routes, preparations and challenges to the joint expedition, 31st Battalion, Yupia Deputy Commandant Hari Singh, who is also the expedition leader, said that the team will begin its 115km trek from Bameng to the base of Mount Kangto on September 28. An advance

A four member central team visited and inspected worst hit area of Majuli Island district today.

They were J. Das-joint director from the ministry of water resources (govt. of India), Dino Nath-secretary ministry of Finance (govt. of India), PP Changkakotychief engineer-Water Resource Dept.-Govt of assam and DP Saikia-secretary of water resource dept. (govt. of Assam).

The local MLA of Tinsukia, Sanjay Kishan led a team to clean the city from Thana Chariali to Rangapara Road under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. He was joined with the members of Bajrang Dal who along with him clean the part of the city since 6 in the morning. . Pic - Sidharth Singh

Assam Rifle apprehends 1 NSCN (U) linkman at Deomali Delivering a major blow to the NSCN, Battalion of Assam Rifles conducted a successful operation in Deomali on 21 September, 2016.

The operation resulted in successful apprehension of one Over Ground Worker (OGW) of NSCN (U), named Tunwang Khungkho. Extortion notes and cash was recovered from his possession.

This apprehension came out as a blow to the extortion activities being carried out by the Over Ground Workers (OGWs)

The high level four member team, comprises both from state and central Water Resource Dept and one representative from Ministry of Finance. The team was received by Pallav Gopal Jha-the deputy commissioner Majuli at Kamalabari ghat and was straightly taken to warst affected areas that created havoc in recent flood.

They visited areas of Benganati, Bongaon and Samoguri. The four

NSCN (U) linkman Tunwang Khungkho

in the area and provided relief to the local population. Assam Rifles once again truly stood by their motto “Friends of the Hill People”.

North Eastern Region is considered as the second biodiversity hotspot in the world, informed Dr. Arup Kumar Sharma, an internationally reputed expert on Global Weather and Climate Change.

Dr. Sharma, Professor at the Dept of Civil, IIT, Guwahati was speaking on Climatic Change at the ‘Dr. Kamal Chandra Borthakur memorial lecture’ held at the Jorhat Science Centre and Planetarium auditorium here today. Today different nations and state are preparing their climatic change action plan and how to face the situation as ecological balance is getting

disturbed, so to maintain it is very important to get ready for mitigation. Water, industry and industrial sector need urgent attention, suggested Dr. Sharma. To live happily, live

Kashmiri Choudhary, a 7 years, six month old child received certificate and award from the officials of Indian Book of Records.

seventeen minutes and the 2nd was in Sepetember 20, 2014.

She swam continuously for 6 hours & 15 minutes. In the year 2014,10th December, Khushi

Ajit Parmar of Kolhapur Maharastra swam continiously for 6 hours 32 minutes.

Kashmiri broke her record today.

Flood victims awaiting rehabilitation

Contd. on Page 4

member team took feedbacks , the nature of flood and erosion that took place recently and also took note about the breached portion when it is last constructed, what type of material been used and what is the system of renovation earlier by the previous government.

The team spent over an hour in areas at Benganati which is under serious threat where the water current of mighty Brahmaputra is hitting hard flowing from the Northern side of the island when the portion near Benganati has been curved towards the island which might divide the island into two parts.

If proper and concrete solution not taken specially in Upper majuli’s northern areas like Halmora, Sonowal Kachari, Benganati, Dokhinpaat the situation for the island will continue as same, said Manoj Borah-a social activist of Majuli, who was also along with the team during their day-long visit here today.

with the nature, but to leave early leave the nature, he added.

Dr. Arup Kumar Sharma, Professor at the Dept of Civil, IIT, Guwahati

7 and a half year Kashmiri Choudhary from NorthEastern Indian state Assam swam from 6.47 AM to 2;26 PM. Daughter of Rupam Chaudhary and Monika Chaudhary of Sivasagar had also made 2 records, 1st was in 31st August 2014. She swam the same tank from the north to south bank in one hour

He informed that Mount Kangto with its rough terrain, heavy rainfall, landslides, and poisonous reptiles, acts as a natural pillar and barrier for the country, and even locals have not moved beyond Bisai.

-“Northeast Region is the second bio-diversity hotspot in the world” Bijoy Shankar Handique Jorhat, Sept 25

ET Bureau Deomali, SepT 25

party has already reached the start point and 30 local porters have been engaged to accompany the 32 ITBP-IMF team.

Four member central team took stock of Majuli’s flood and erosion Bijoy Shankar Handique Jorhat, Sept 25

cmyk

Price -

Two meritorious students, Chinmoy Kurmi and Tanuj Gowala, reportedly brilliant but economically poor studying in Jorhat Engineering College were selected for financial aid from Dr. Kamal Chandra Borthakur Memorial Trust.

The two awardees belong to the Dept of Civil-first semesterJorhat Engineering College were given cheque and citation by the family members of late Kamal Chandra Borthakur.

Every year Dr. Kamal Chandra Borthakur Memorial Trust jointly with Assam Academic Centre has decided Contd. on Page 4

Flood victims in Balijan and Majarbari staying in a temporary relief camp since 1st Sept.

Vinod Kumar Singh Demaji, Sept 25

Since 1st September last 167 families belong to Balijan and Majarbari have been living in temporary makeshift camps in Sukurbaria Bazaar. The flood by the Brahmaputra which started on 1st September has rendered most of them completely homeless. The flood has even destroyed 4

Lower Primary Schools.

While speaking with this correspondent of Eastern Today Adhir namsudra (50) says “Everything that we have earned till date is destroyed by the flood from two mighty rivers, Brahmaputra and Simen River. We are still not rehabilitated and are staying under polythene roof huts.”

The villagers blamed that

the district administration is not doing enough for them.

Even the reliefs’ materials that they provide are not sufficient to meet their end. However they expressed gratitude to the NGOs, ‘Rural Volunteer Centre’ and ‘Save the Children’. They have informed that apart from distributing reliefs’ materials they also have opened temporary school near the relief camps.

State govt. would update sports infrastructure and facilities, says DCM Chowna Mein ET Bureau Itanagar, Sept 25

Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein said that the state govt would update sports infrastructure and facilities of the state soon while attending the closing ceremony of Dorjee Khandu All India Senior Ranking Badminton Tournament at Raj Bhawan Badminton Stadium as Chief Guest today.

Saying that there is no dearth of talent in individual sports in the state, he said, state lacks modern infrastructure and facilities in sports. However, he added that efforts are on to update the Sangey Lhaden Sports Academy with state of the art facilities and equipments. He also said to provide fund for repair and maintenance of the Raj Bhawan Badminton Stadium.

Mein further said that there is natural talents of sports among the North East boys and girls, need of the hour is to give them proper guidance and training.

saying that his contribution in development of sports scenario in the state is known to all and shall always be remembered by the state.

He said that the Sports has become more professional these days and said that by encouraging young boys & girls, sports can be used as an alternative source of income and employment for the unemployed youths.

He expressed his gratitude to Badminton Association of India for its support in holding the first ever national level tournament of badminton in the state. He also congratulated BAI and ASBA for successful conduct of the tournament.

He further said, “to arrest the growing menace of drugs among the youths, young boys & girls must be pushed and encouraged to participate in games & sports”. And added that govt is contemplating to reintroduce Physical Trainers/ Teachers in govt schools for guidance and training from the school level itself.

He also remembered Late Dorjee Khandu in his speech

He also lauded the ability, hard work, discipline and dedication shown by the players throughout the tournament and congratulated all the winners as well as the participants.

Chief Referee cum executive member of BAI, H Gyaneshwor Singh shared words of encouragement with the players before the final match.

Contd. on Page 4

cmyk

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NEWS

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26

Navy rescues drowning fisherman off Nagapattinam Chennai, Sep 25 (PTI) Indian Navy has rescued a drowning fisherman off the Nagapattinam coast, after he was allegedly pushed into the water by a colleague following a scuffle.

A team headed by leading Seaman S Mondal on Friday spotted a person "drowning" in the sea off the Nagapattinam coast, the navy said in a release here today.

"A lifebuoy was thrown and despite heavy seas, he was rescued and brought ashore," it added.

The rescued man was identified as S Sinduraj from Nagapattinam.

He told the navy personnel that he was pushed overboard by another fisherman after a scuffle, the release said, adding that he has been handed over to the Marine police.

Fresh plea in SC against grant Workshop on Entrepreneurial skills organized by Margherita of bail to Shahabuddin New Delhi, Sep 25 (PTI) In fresh trouble for RJD leader Mohd Shahabuddin, the mother of three youths who were brutally killed by henchmen of the controversial politician has moved the Supreme Court seeking cancellation of bail granted to him in the case in which he has already been sentenced to life.

The woman, whose two sons were killed and her third son, who was an eye witness to the incident, later on murdered allegedly at the instance of Shahabuddin, has challenged the Patna High Court's March 2 this year order granting regular bail to him during pendency of his appeal.

HOROSCOPE Aries

Taurus

Gemini

Your intuition is working overtime today, Aries, making you sensitive to others' deepest emotions. It may be that the celestial atmosphere has everyone feeling open and honest, eager to grow into his or her most authentic self. Certainly that's how you feel. Take some time out of your busy schedule to reflect on your regrets and successes. Be as true to yourself as possible.

No pressure, Taurus, but as things are now, you might want to evaluate your career. Is it working out well? What are your latest achievements? What goals haven't been reached? If the answers aren't satisfactory, it's time to make some dramatic changes. If your work doesn't make your heart sing, it's time to find some that does. Life isn't a dress rehearsal. Get going!

The time is right for all things financial, Gemini. If you've been thinking of signing a contract to accept a job or purchase a piece of property, go ahead.

Strategize ways in which you can be even more financially successful in the future. You have a lot of skills, but you don't always apply them as carefully as you could. Correct this and you'll be unstoppable!

Cancer

Expect to get some useful financial information today, Cancer. You may learn about a new investment, or perhaps you'll get wind of a job opening that's right up your alley.

This is a good day to consider an alternate life path. Although there's nothing wrong with the one you're on, it's always good to consider other roads.

Leo

Expect your romantic relationship to be better than ever today, Leo. You're communicating well and in touch with one another's feelings. How wonderful to be able to maintain an inspiring, rewarding bond with someone who loves you. There is much to be grateful for. This could be a good time to take your relationship to the next level. Your partner won't mind discussing this.

Virgo

This could be a banner day, Virgo. Your spiritual and career goals come together so both are enhanced and neither is compromised. It's a neat trick. You can expect the opportunity to practice what you preach to come to you through a friend or colleague. Don't discount any ideas presented to you, as one will contain the key to meshing two of the most important parts of your life.

Libra

Be your most charming self tonight, Libra. You're likely to meet someone who can help your career.

Your intuition is strong, so you may know who this person is the minute you shake hands. If the chemistry is good, too, so much the better! Whether this person impacts your life in a romantic or business capacity, you'll remember this night as when your life changed for the better!

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

PAGE 2

You have an introspective nature, Scorpio. For the last few weeks you've been reflecting on and assessing what does and doesn't work in your life. It's likely that you're ready for some kind of major change. Either your relationship is in a rut or you need a complete career overhaul. Follow your instincts as you plan how to develop and grow from here. You are your own best guide.

You're ready for something new and different, Sagittarius. What better time than during the current transits to put into practice what has only been a dream?

You may decide to work for yourself or ditch one relationship in favor of another. You want the changes you implement to be brash and far-reaching! If not, you may have to wait a long time to feel this energetic and optimistic again.

You'll do some serious soul searching today. Which goals have you achieved and which ones have gone unattained? Be honest as you reflect on past months.

Could you have done things differently? Would you like to do things differently in the future?

You'd be well advised to write down your successes and regrets. Use the list to keep you on track. It's bound to be a great help to you.

Today you'll realize that a clean slate brings with it the chance for a new beginning. You feel excited and optimistic about the future. Your goals are clear and your mind is sharp.

How can you not succeed? Take care not to let your fantasies run away with you. Keep your eyes on your attainable goals rather than waste time and energy chasing pipe dreams.

You may be ready for some major career changes, Pisces. You could be fed up with the stress and long hours of the corporate environment. Surely in this age of technology there's a way to spend more time at home without sacrificing the quality of your work.

Think about it for a few days. If you propose a feasible alternative to your boss, the positive response may surprise you.

While a sessions court in Siwan had convicted Shahabuddin for the offence of murder and kidnapping for ransom in the twin murder case and had awarded life imprisonment to him, the trial in the murder case of the eye witness son is going on.

In her plea, Kalawati Devi has claimed that the high court had "completely lost sight" of the fact that Shahabuddin was a "dreaded criminal, who has absolutely no regard for the law, and granting bail to him even though he has been convicted for heinous offences like murder, abduction etc and is still facing trial in many of the cases lodged against him

would be travesty of government in the apex justice". court, till November 2014, trials in at least On September 19, the 38 cases were pending apex court had sought against him in which he a response from was facing alleged heiShahabuddin on a sepa- nous charges of murder, rate plea filed by Devi's attempt to murder, rioth u s b a n d ing with deadly C h a n d r a k e s h w a r weapon, extortion and Prasad challenging the others. bail granted to him by Patna High Court in the Her plea is likely to murder case of their come up for hearing bethird son. fore the apex court tomorrow.

The apex court is also hearing a separate plea Devi has said in her filed by the widow of plea, filed through adjournalist Rajdev vocate Prashant Ranjan, who was mur- Bhushan, that her two dered in Siwan alleg- sons, Girish and Satish, edly at the instance of were abducted by Shahabuddin, seeking Shahabuddin's henchtransfer of the case to men and after being bruDelhi. tally assaulted, they were killed by acid poured on In her plea, Devi has them and their bodies, said that as per an affi- packed in a sack full of davit filed by the Bihar salt, buried.

College concludes

Mithun Baruah Margherita, Sept 25 : A National Level workshop on ”Entrepreneurial Motivation & Skill Development" organized by the Department of Commerce of Margherita College concluded today in high note.

The workshop which commenced on 19 September was attended by more than thousand participants from different colleges of M a r g h e r i t a , Ti n s u k i a , Dibrugarh, NGO's, entrepreneurs from Large and Small Scale Industries and unemployed youths.

The workshop which was sponsored by University Grant Commission has witnessed several distinguished person from all over Assam such as Ravindra Agarwal, Branch Manager of NEDFI Tinsukia, B.P Bakshi, Chairman Assam Productivity Council , Tinsukia and Adviser of All India Manufacturers Organiza-

Court pulls up CBI for not probing properly

More than 1000 participants attended the National level workshop in the last 6 days. tion Assam and NE States office, Kanakeswar Sonowal, Functional manager of District Industries and Commerce Centre Tinsukia, Anup Kumar Barua , General Manager of District Industries and Commerce Centre Tinsukia, Rakesh Agarwal , Professor of G S Lohia College Tinsukia, Dr Gautam Kumar Saikia, Associate Professor Department of Tea Technology and Husbandry Assam Ag-

Suspect in Washington shooting ‘zombie-like’ when arrested

New Delhi, Sept 25 (PTI) The CBI's director has been asked to supervise further probe in a case of payment of alleged kickbacks by a Russian firm for a Rs 2,066crore NTPC contract by a court which pulled up the agency for not investigating it properly.

ers of NTPC and members of the Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure.

gratification in award of super thermal power contract at Barh in Bihar.

PTI Washington, Sept 25 : The suspect in the deadly Washington state mall shooting said nothing and appeared “zombie-like” when he was arrested by authorities nearly 24 hours into an intense manhunt, authorities said.

Ordering the CBI Director to supervise further probe, the court asked him to assign the investigation to an officer not below the rank of a Joint Director.

The FIR in the case was registered on information from Interpol, London, which alleged that 15 million pounds were lying in a UK bank account and appeared to be meant for kickbacks.

Island County Sheriff’s Lt. Mike Hawley said he spotted Arcan Cetin from a patrol car on Saturday evening in Oak Harbor, Washington, and immediately recognised him as the suspect who killed five people at the Cascade Mall in nearby Burlington.

"It appears that CBI officials are not inclined to further investigate the matter to ascertain the criminal negligence or abuse and misuse of official positions by senior NTPC officials as well as the members of the Cabinet Committee on Infrastructure, Government of India, as these senior officers and the politicians appear to have high connections and appear to have a big say in the functioning of Government of India," Special CBI Judge Brijesh Garg said.

The court had in April last year returned CBI's charge sheet filed in the case while directing the agency to further probe it on the aspect of fixing of responsibility of NTPC officials who had "deliberately" not pointed out the deficiencies in the tender documents of Russian firm Technopromexport (TPE).

CBI had alleged that NTPC had entered into three contracts with TPE Russia and transferred USD 53,633,554 to it as advance money.

It had said that TPE later transferred USD 10,37,36,221 and USD 10,37,2,441.07 to Delhibased Ravina Associates Pvt Ltd at Natwest Bank on May 5 and May 18, 2005, respectively.

“I literally hit my brakes, did a quick turn, I jumped out,” Mr. Hawley said.

“We both jumped out with our guns, and he just froze.”

Refusing to accept the charge sheet filed by CBI, the court said the agency has tried to "save" senior offic-

The court, however, was annoyed that no further probe has been done by CBI for the last over one-and-a half years to comply with its earlier order.

According to CBI, from 2002 to 2005 some NTPC officials had obtained illegal

CBI alleged that more than USD 20.07 million was paid by TPE Russia to Ravina Associates Pvt Ltd as commission equalling a percentage of the contract.

CBI, in its fresh charge sheet filed in August this year, had named as accused M/s FGUP VO Technopromexport, its two officials, Ravina and Associates Pvt Ltd and its director.

Cetin was unarmed and was carrying a satchel with a computer in it.

“He was kind of zombie-like,” Mr. Hawley said.

The suspect’s arrest capped a frantic search following the slayings of five people the day before.

The first 911 call came in just before 7 p.m. on a busy Friday at the Cascade Mall - A man with a rifle was shooting at people in the Macy’s department store.

By the time police arrived moments later, the carnage at the Macy’s makeup counter was complete. Four people were dead, and the shooter was gone, last seen walking toward Interstate 5. The fifth victim, a man, died in the early morning hours on Saturday as police finished sweeping the 434,000-square-foot building.

“There are people waking up this morning, and their world has changed forever. The city of Burlington has probably changed forever, but I don’t think our way of life needs to change,” Burlington Mayor Steve Sexton said on Saturday at a news conference.

Students present during the Seven day National Level workshop held at Margherita College.

Pic- Mithun Baruah.

Galleria Cinema Dibrugarh Junction Mall Screen-1

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The community of 8,600 people is too far from Seattle to be a commuter town, but its population swells to 55,000 during the day because of a popular outlet mall, retail stores and other businesses. Burlington is the only major retail center within 30 miles (48 kilometers) in a region where agriculture is king.

Residents gathered on Saturday to comfort each other at a community gathering in a city park.

“It’s too scary. It’s too close to home,” said Maria Elena Vasquez, who attended the gathering with her husband and two young children.

Those who survived were still trying to process what happened as their community became the latest entry on a list of places known by the rest of world for mass shootings.

Joanne Burkholder, 19, of nearby Mount Vernon, was watching the movie “The Magnificent Seven” in the mall’s theater when security guards came in and told them to evacuate immediately. Dozens of panicked moviegoers gathered in the hallway, and Burkholder heard screaming as the officers escorted them to safety in a parking lot.

As she drove home later, she had to pull over because she was shaking so hard, she told The Associated Press.

People who believed they may have lost loved ones were being sequestered at a church three blocks from the mall, where counselors and a golden retriever therapy dog were present.

As the small city absorbed the tragic news, critical questions remained, including the shooter’s motive.

Screen-2 "RAAZ- REBOOT"

Earlier Saturday as police scrambled to find the shooter, the small city about 60 miles (97 kilometers) waited and worried.

Cetin has not been charged, Mr. Cammock said. He will be booked into the Skagit County Jail and is expected to appear in Skagit County District Court on Monday.

Cetin was told by an Island County District Court judge on Dec. 29 that he was not to possess a firearm, the newspaper reported.

"KOTHANODI"

The identities of the victims four women who ranged in age from a teenager to a senior citizen were withheld pending autopsies and notification of family. The identity of the man who was fatally shot was also withheld and may not be released until Monday.

“I’m just very thankful for my life this morning. I’ve never been so terrified in my life,” she said Saturday, trying to hold back tears as she attended the community vigil.

The newspaper reports Cetin also was arrested for drunken driving.

DOORDARSHAN - ETI JANTRA

Cammock said.

Authorities said it now appears the rifle was brought into the mall from the suspect’s vehicle that was there, Mount Vernon police Lt. Chris Cammock said on Saturday night.

The Seattle Times reports (http-// bit.ly/2cWhxJY) that Skagit County court records show three domesticviolence assault charges against Cetin. The victim was identified as Cetin’s stepfather.

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ricultural University Jorhat, Dr Minuara Begum, Dergaon Kamal Dowarah College Dergaon.

The workshop was inaugurated by Sanjeev Kumar Barhoi Margherita SDO(Civil), Professor Nagari Mohan Panda Department of Commerce NEHU Shillong Meghalaya, Dr D D Mali Former Director IIE Guwahati and the Department of Margherita College.

Initially the suspect was described as Hispanic, but Mr. Hawley said that was based on initial witness statements to the shooting at the mall.

Surveillance video captured the suspect entering the mall unarmed and then recorded him about 10 minutes later entering the Macy’s with a “hunting type” rifle in his hand, Mr.

The Seattle Times reported that one of the victims in the deadly Washington state mall shooting is a 16year-old girl.

Sarai Lara’s mother said she had survived cancer as a young girl and was a happy student.

Evangelina Lara told ( http-//bit.ly/ 2cWhxJY ) the newspaper through a translator that she was shopping Friday night at the Cascade Mall in Burlington, Washington, with Sarai and her younger sister, but they split up.

Evangelina Lara says it was confirmed at 2 a.m. on Saturday that her daughter was among the five people killed.

Dozens of people attended a Saturday evening prayer service for the victims. The gathering was held at Central United Methodist Church in nearby Sedro-Woolley, Washington.

The Rev. Cody Natland lit five candles on a table in front of the church, one for each victim.

NEWS

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26

PAGE 3

Insas Rifle amongst recovered arms from Assam needs ILP-type protection, says Mahanta encounter site of the 6 KPLT militant ET Correspondent Bokajan, Sept 25: Atleast 6 KPLT cadres including two top leaders were gunned down by security forces in a fierce gun battle past Friday.

One SLR Rifle, one Insas Rifle, three Pistol, two grenade and a cache of ammunition were recovered from the camping site of the slain militants.

It needs to be mentioned here that KPLT is a breakaway fraction of KLNLF after the latter laid down arms on February 11, 2010. It was

formed with 25 cadres at an undisclosed location on January 8, 2011 with an objective of carving an Autonomous Karbi State out of Assam.

Meanwhile, Police have confirmed that the recovered Insas Rifle was snatched from the armed body guards of MAC Lt. Narendra Killing, while miscreants assassinated him at his residence in Balipathar back in 2011.

A group of eight heavily armed miscreants swooped inside the residence of MAC killing

and opened indiscriminate firing. Two of Killing's PSO- Darsing Rongpi and Manob Puran sustained bullet injuries. Miscreants thereafter decamped with two 303 Lee-Enfield Rifles, one Insas Rifle and around 70 rounds of ammunition from the guards.

with four associated deep under the dense Nambor Reserve Forest near Chokihola in East Karbi Anglong.

Noteworthy that KPLT had emerged as a severe threat to the security of general people since its inception. However, the counter insurgency operations have inflicted a severe blow to the outfit and they have been struggling to make a comeback as most of the cadres have either been killed in encounters or arrested as of now.

KPLT General Secretary, Nilip Enghi then claimed responsibility of the assassination. He was also later killed in an encounter with security forces on 20 April 2012 along

Army Doesn't Speak, It Shows Valour: PM Modi on Uri Attack IANS New Delhi, Sep 25: The Indian Army doesn't speak, it acts to show valour, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Sunday, recalling the September 18 cross-border terror attack on a military base in Jammu and Kashmir and vowed that perpetrators of the "cowardly act" that left 18 soldiers dead won't go unpunished.

"Recently, we lost 18 soldiers in a terror attack in Uri. I pay my tribute to these martyrs. There is anger in the country. This cowardly act was enough to shake the nation," Modi said, opening his monthly radio broadcast 'Mann ki Baat' by remembering the fallen men.

India has said the militants who attacked the army camp in Uri had come from across the Line of Control (LoC) in Pakistan.

Islamabad has denied the allegation even as New Delhi says it has incriminating evidences to prove that the four attackers, who were killed in the Uri gunfight, belonged to the Jaish-eMohammed and had come from Pakistan.

Modi reiterated his government's resolve to punish those who masterminded the attack.

"The perpetrators of these attacks will be punished for sure. We have full confidence in the Indian Army and are proud of them.

While politicians speak, military acts to show valour.

We are proud of our army," the Prime Minister said.

Modi said a Class 11 student named Harshvardhan who was disturbed by the Uri attack had written to him saying he wanted to do something for the country.

"He was angry. But he pledged to study for three more hours daily, be a good

Muslims no tool for votes, says Modi IANS Kozhikode, Sep 25: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday stressed the need for creating an alternate politics as advocated by Jan Sangh ideologue Deendayal Upadhyaya who had always suggested that no section of people should be left neglected or considered as tools to garner votes.

Citing the "vikrut paribhasha (distorted definition)" of secularism propagated in the country, he recalled that long back, Upadhyaya, founding father of the Jan Sangh -- the predecessor of the ruling BJP - had said that Muslims should not be mere tools to garner votes nor neglected.

Deendayal had said Muslims should not be treated as "substance of vote market", said Modi.

"It is in this context, we

have launched our developmental programmes based on the spirit of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas," Modi said in his address at the concluding session here of the BJP's National Council meet.

"We have always tried to uphold his principles and today we again pledge ourselves to rededicate for the cause of such inclusive development," he said.

Modi said it was high time we extended a helping hand to the last man -- the poorest man in each corner of the country.

"A country such as ours -full of young people -should have youthful dreams and youthful pace", he said and added that the BJP's original character was based on principles of welfare of the people and the party had never compromised with its ideals.

unrest and said people of the valley have begun recognizing "anti-nationals".

"Today, I want to speak to the people of Kashmir. They have started recognising those who oppose our country. They want their life to get back on track. All of us know that peace and unity is the only solution to our problems. This has begun (in Kashmir)."

PM Narendra Modi citizen and serve the nation," Modi said, adding the boy's constructive and healthy thinking was inspiring for all.

The attack at the army base near the de facto border with Pakistan came as the Kashmir Valley is battling the deadliest unrest in six years that has left 90 people dead since the July 8 killing of Hizbul Mujahideen

commander Burhan Wani.

Normal life remained disrupted for the 80th day in a row on Sunday. Schools, colleges, offices and other businesses have closed due the turmoil and there are no signs of respite from daily protests and separatist called shutdown.

Modi referred to the hardships being faced by Kashmiri people due to the

"The security of the people of Kashmir is the responsibility of the administration.

The administration has to take steps to maintain that," Modi added He said parents in the valley were worried about the future of their children who have not been to schools in the last nearly three months.

"Farmers are also worried about their crops which have ripened. They are keen that their products and fruit crops reach other parts of the Indian market," he said.

ISRO to hit 100 foreign satellite launch figure soon IANS Chennai, Sep 25: India will soon touch the magic figure of launching 100 foreign satellites, said a senior official of ISRO. According to Antrix Corporation — the commercial arm of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) — India till date has launched 74 satellites from 20 countries. hope to touch the magic number of launching 100 foreign satellites,” the ISRO official, who did not want to be named, told IANS.

If the launch is successful then the total number of foreign satellites launched for a fee would touch 79.

India started launched foreign satellites in 1999, mostly as a piggyback to its main cargo. The piggyback is done mainly to fill up the rocket’s capacity.

While such piggyback satellites are small in size,

ISRO has been getting orders for satellite launches as a full payload since 2007, when it launched Agile, an Italian satellite.

In August, Antrix said it has bagged orders for launch of 68 foreign satellites.

Touching the magic figure of 100 foreign satellite launches will not be a major challenge as ISRO is adept in launching multiple satellites with a single rocket.

Curfew lifted from all parts of Kashmir PTI Srinagar, Sep 25: Curfew was lifted from all parts of Kashmir on Sunday but restrictions on assembly of people remained in force in most areas as a precautionary measures.

"The entire Kashmir Valley is curfew-free today but restrictions are in place in many parts as a precautionary measure," a police official said.

He said the curfew was any untoward incident lifted following im- from anywhere in the provement in the situa- valley on Sunday. tion on Saturday.

There were no reports of

However, markets are expected to open at 2 PM as the separatist groups have announced a 16-hour relaxation in the shutdown till 6 AM of Monday.

Shops and other business establishments remained closed due to separatist call for shut

The bill, which was tabled in Parliament on August 11, seeks to give citizenship rights to persecuted religious minorities from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan. It is currently being examined by a joint select committee of Parliament after opposition parties said it needed more scrutiny.

Leading a delegation under the banner of Asom Andolan Sangrami Mancha, Mahanta recently met committee members in New Delhi and submitted a memorandum opposing the bill.

"We have explained our points in the memorandum.

Assam bore the burden of

As many as 82 persons including two cops have been killed and thousands of others have been injured in the ongoing unrest that started after Hizbul Mujahideen Commander Burhan Wani down for the 79th was killed in an encounstraight day while public transport remained ter with security forces on July 8. off the roads.

Former chief minister and founder president of Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) Prafulla Kumar Mahanta. foreigners till 1971. Just the way outsiders cannot buy property in states like Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland and Mizoram, Assam, too, needs similar safeguards," Mahanta told reporters here on Saturday.

The three states mentioned

by Mahanta have the Inner Line Permit system which restricts the entry and stay of 'outsiders'. Another northeastern state, Manipur, has been on the boil over the

ILP issue for months now.

"The bill is an insult to the Assam Accord. Anyone who entered the state after March 25, 1971, is an illegal citizen irrespective of religion, caste and creed. So we appeal to all concerned to oppose the bill in writing before October 30," he said.

Mahanta added that he would discuss the issue at the party level even though AGP is part of the state's ruling coalition.

‘Trekking to Bendao Baglai Water fall’ organized at Haflong

ET Correspondent Haflong, Sept 25: Spectrum, a front liner non-government organization of Haflong and Samparidisa village committee in collaboration with Dima Hasao Tourism and Assam Rifle 22 Sector organized ‘Trekking to Bendao Baglai Water fall’ located 4 km away from Samparidisa village and about 18 km from Haflong on Sunday.

Bendao Baglai Water fall is a one three falls located on Abung Nullah and famous as the story goes like two orphan sisters out of their

On Monday morning, an Indian rocket, Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), will launch five more foreign satellites.

Next month India will be launching two more foreign satellites.

“In a couple of launches, we

Agencies Guwahati, Sep 25: Former chief minister and founder president of Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) Prafulla Kumar Mahanta has appealed to the Centre to provide special constitutional safeguards, modelled on the Inner Line Permit (ILP) system, in the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016, to protect the indigenous people of the state.

sorrow in absence of their parents committed suicide at the fall after which the fall is named as the Bendao Baglai Water fall.

ber, Debojit Bathari and MAC of NC Hills Autonomous Council, Kulendra Daulagupu took part in the trekking expedition.

Jaynoram Dibragede, Gaon Bura of Samparidisa village said since these falls on Abung Nullah, it has become a centre point for the tourists, coming from outside the district and even from other state for natural beauty, ought to be developed as tourist spot.

It is said that the District of Dima Hasao has been blessed with diverse potentialities to be the nature’s paradise and many more things are yet to be explored. It would be a great adventurous experiences for the tourists who take the opportunity to visit Dima Hasao since there are several NGOs working for the promotion of Tourism in Dima Hasao in true sense.

More than 55 trekkers from various places of Haflong including Executive Mem-

Proud of our Army; Kashmir people want peace: Modi 'Peace, unity and goodwill are the keys to our problems and path to progress' New Delhi, Sept 25 : Likening the anger in the country over Uri attack to that witnessed in the 1965 war, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday maintained that those responsible for the terror strike will be punished.

He also sent out a message to the people of Kashmir, which has been witnessing unrest for over two months, saying that “peace, unity and harmony” are the ways to resolve problems and expressed confidence that all issues can be addressed through discussions.

In his monthly radio programme ‘Mann Ki Baat’ he paid tributes to the 18 soldiers who died in the attack on September 18. “This cowardly act was enough to shake the entire country. There is mourning as well as anger in the country.”

He said, “This is a loss not only for those families which lost their sons, brothers, husbands.

This loss is for the entire country. That is why, today I will say only this much, which I said on that day (of the incident) also and I will repeat it today, that the guilty will surely be punished.”

“They [Indian armymen] are the people who take bravery to its pinnacle so that 125 crore people can live a peaceful life,” he said. “We are proud of our army. People and politicians get opportunities to speak and that’s what they do. But the army does not speak. The army displays its bravery."

few days, business activities have started,” he said.

“We all know that peace, unity and harmony are the ways to solve our problems and also to ensure our progress and development. For our future generations, we have to cross new heights of development,” the Prime Minister said.

Reaches out to the people of Kashmir

Hails paralympic medal winners

In his 35-minute broadcast, the Prime Minister said he also wanted to “speak” to the people of Kashmir.

The Prime Minister also spoke about the recent Paralympics and hailed the Indian athletes who participated in these games and won medals for the country.

He said he had received messages from a number of people, urging him to talk about the Paralymipcs. “Perhaps, more than the games, this Paralympics and the performance our participants has completely changed the outlook towards the Divyang [specially-abled people],” he said.

He also talked about the ‘Swacch Bharat’ campaign launched by him two years ago and said it had picked up momentum with people becoming more aware about cleanliness and contributing towards it.

“The people of Kashmir have started to understand the antinational forces clearly. And as the reality is dawning on them, they have started distancing themselves from such forces and have started walking on the path of peace,” he said.

He said it is the desire of all parents that schools and colleges in Kashmir started working properly and farmers there want that their produce should reach the markets of the country.

“Economic activity should take place properly. Since last

PAGE 4

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26

Delhi police registers FIR in Ishrat missing files case FIR against unknown persons registered after MHA approaches the Delhi Police

This July 03, 2013 photo shows Ishrat Jahan's mother Shamima and sister Musarrat arriving for a press conference in Mumbai.

New Delhi, Sept 25: The Delhi Police has registered an FIR in connection with the four missing documents considered crucial in the Ishrat Jahan encounter killing probe.

The FIR against unknown persons was registered two days ago at Parliament Street police station after the Union Ministry of Home Affairs approached the Delhi Police.

The Home Ministry named the missing documents, including a copy of an affidavit vetted by the then Attorney General late G.E Vahanvati and submitted in the Gujarat High Court in 2009 and the draft of the second affidavit vetted by the AG on which changes were made.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh had disclosed in Parliament on March 10 that certain pages from Ishrat

files were missing. A oneman committee was set up to trace the missing documents is learnt to have made no recommendations for punitive action against anyone.

Ishrat, Javed Shaikh alias Pranesh Pillai, Amjadali Akbarali Rana and Zeeshan Johar were killed in the encounter with Gujarat Police on the outskirts of Ahmedabad on June 15, 2004.(PTI)

Six-year-old chef from Kerala makes ‘puttu’ on the Ellen Degeneres Show YouTube sensation and young chef Nihal Raj, also known as Kicha, showcased his cookery skills on popular American TV programme The Ellen DeGeneres Show

NEWS State BJP celebrates Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhya Birth Centenary ET Bureau Itanagar, 25 Sept: The State Level Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyay Birth centenary celebration Samaro was Inaugurated by the State Vice President and President Incharge Adv.Dominic Tadar at Arunalay(Hill Top Community Hall, Itanagar in the presence of hundreds of party leaders and karyakartas.

He said that after the sangathan Parv 2015 which successfully launched its membership drive Abhiyan, Sampark Abhiyan and Maha Prashikshan Abhiyan, the yearlong centenary celebration of Punditji is to carry forward pro poor (Garib Kalyan) policy, schemes and projects initiated by the BJP led NDA Govt. at the centre and called upon the party karyakartas of the state to get ready for the year long programme with a mission to serve the last man in the village.

dealt at length on the life real service to the history and struggle people. since childhood of Punditji.

Earlier, the organizing committee chairman She said that the phi- Vijay Sonam extended losophy of Integral the words of welcome H u m a n i s m ( E k h a t m and called upon the Manav Vad Darshan) gathering to inculcate opined by Punditji is not the five principles of only the philosophy of Punditji in our day to BJP but it has become a day life and in developuniversal one and ing the party organizapeople from every walk tions in the state. of life revere him for this.

Meanwhile, the State President Tapir Gao She said that punditji along with his 12 memThe Resource person emphasized on contest- ber team including Smti.(Dr.) Joram Anya ing elections to deliver Gegong Apang, RK

aired in the U.S. on Friday, Kicha showed Ms. DeGeneres how to make puttu — a traditional Kerala breakfast dish.

Kicha seemed to be having a lot of “fun” during his maiden visit to the U.S. When the host asked him about his experiences, he said: “It’s been fun.”

Kicha, who hails from Kochi, found fame after starting KichaTube HD channel on the video-sharing site. Launched in January last year, the channel now has over 6000 subscribers and the young

On the show, which was

After sampling the dish, Ms. DeGeneres appreciated Kicha and said: “It’s very delicious.”

YouTube sensation and young chef Nihal Raj, also known as Kicha, showcased his cookery skills on popular American TV programme The Ellen DeGeneres Show .

chef features in 33 videos.

While introducing him on the show, Ms. DeGeneres said: “Well, if you have ever wondered why Ellen hasn’t had an adorable sixyear-old chef from India, then today is your day.

Please welcome Kicha.”

Kicha seemed to be having a lot of “fun” during his maiden visit to the U.S. When the host asked him about his experiences, he said: “It’s been fun.”

On the show, which was aired in the U.S. on Friday, Kicha showed Ms. DeGeneres how to make puttu — a traditional Kerala breakfast dish.

After sampling the dish, Ms. DeGeneres appreciated Kicha and said: “It’s very delicious.”

The celebration at Itanagar was attended

by Ex-Ministers, ExMLAs, and senior leaders of the state, State office bearers, All Morchas Heads, Itanagar District and Mandal Units.

The Inaugural celebration ended with cake cutting by the State President Incharge Adv.Dominic Tadar and followed by Screening of the live telecast of the Inaugural speech of the Prime Minister.

Panchayati Members and Operation Shaurya flags off by GBs attended legal awareness CM Khandu to scale Mt Kangto camp at Jengging A Staff Reporter JENGGING, Sept 25 : A day-long legal awareness camp for Panchayat members and gaon burrahs was conducted at Jengging Circuit House on Saturday by the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Yingkiong.

New Delhi, Sept 25: Kicha, who hails from Kochi, found fame after starting KichaTube HD channel on the video-sharing site.

Launched in January last year, the channel now has over 6000 subscribers and the young chef features in 33 videos.

While introducing him on the show, Ms. DeGeneres said: “Well, if you have ever wondered why Ellen hasn’t had an adorable six-year-old chef from India, then today is your day. Please welcome Kicha.”

Khrime, Tamiyo Taga Leader of BJP Legislature party, Tapen Siga, Tai Tagak, Dr. Tangor Tapak, Er Tage Taki MLA, 3 General Secretaries Ramesh Kadaganchi(ORG), Jarpum Gamlin and BR Waghe and Smti.Komoli Mossang are attending the 3 day national Council meeting at Kozikode, Calicut, Kerala and today, they also attended the Inaugural event of Punjitji’s Birth centenary celebration by the PM Narendra Modiji.

Organising Secretary, Oson Mibang urged participants to attend such camps and educate themselves.

DLSA Member Secretary Habung Tangu (JMFC cum Civil Judge) who was also the resource person, spoke on various Acts like Access to Justice for all under Legal Service Authority Act, 1987, Mental Health Act 1987, The Persons with Disabilities (Equal Opportunities, Protection of Rights and Full Participa-

tion) Act, 1995.

Advocates Akoying Tekseng, Dubom Tekseng, Oyem Panyang, Kabang Taron, Apang Jongkey, Tapang Tabing as resource persons covered the topics on Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005; Concept of Sec 125 CrPC; Right to Information Act, 2005; Arunachal Pradesh Victim Compensation Scheme, 2011; NDPS Act; M V Act; the Assam Frontier (Administration of Justice) Regulation, 1945 and Consumer Protection Act, 1986.

Around 36 Panchayat Members participated in the programme, which also saw an interaction session to clarify all doubts. Legal brochures were distributed.

-“Northeast Region is the second bio-diversity hotspot in the world” Contd. from Page 1

to extent financial help to meritorious economically unsound students doing bachelor degree in Civil Engineering studying anywhere in India specially from undivided Sivasagar district now known to be Sivasagar, Jorhat and Golaghat district, informed Dr. Poran Baruah, the president of Assam Academic Centre.

The meet was presided by Bishnu Prasad Sharma while Dr. Mukul Chaliha, Dr. Shymal Prasad Baruah, Dr. Bichitra Borthakur, Dr. Tapan Dutta and Romen Gogoi-the secretary of Assam Academic Centre spoke on the occasion among students from Tezpur University, Jorhat Engineering College, Assam Engineering College were present.

Contd. from Page 1

However, confident of making it to Mount Kangto, Singh said that the ITBP is technically sound and well prepared. He exuded hope that once the expedition is completed, it would open up tourism and adventure opportunities for the border state.

The expedition is expected to take 40 days to complete.

Wishing the expedition team success, Chief Minister Khandu hoped that the team would wave the glorious Indian Tri-colour flag atop Kangto’s peak. He also hoped that the expedition would increase interaction among security forces and local people for benefit of both.

“As the mission is very tough and challenging due to several threats and obstacles on the way, I congratulate the ITBPF and IMF for conceiving and executing such a crucial mission knowing that many earlier missions in this area have been unsuccessful. I pray Almighty for safety of

the team members and wish grand success to the expedition” the CM wished.

Pema assured that the State Government would provide all help and assistance in terms of logistic, local support, chopper service at times of emergency in order to make the mission successful and smooth. He made special request to Home Minister Kumar Waii, who happens to be the local MLA of Bameng, to ensure that the team which is passing through his constituency be provided all possible local support.

On the side lines of the programme, Pema extended his sincere gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Minister for Home Affairs Rajnath Singh and Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju for shifting the North East Frontier Headquarters of ITBPF from Shillong to Itanagar.

Pema hoped that having the frontier headquarters in the State Capital would not only help in securing the borders but would also benefit the state in effective law and

order management.

He reiterated for recruiting more Arunachalee youths in the premier force justifying that Arunachalee youths are brave, disciplined and are born adventurous having knowledge about jungles and mountains.

NE Frontier ITBP Inspector General Manoj Singh Rawat said that the expedition team has an electric mix of highly skilled mountaineers with two from the IMF, who will attempt the arduous task and wished the team success.

ITBP SHQ DIG Ashok Kumar also spoke on the occasion.

Among others, Home Minister Kumar Waii, Parliamentary Secretary Nyamar Karbak, IG (Law & Order) Nuzhat Hassan, IG (Adm) N Payeng, RTC Kimin DIG mandhir Ekka, 10 Bn Commandant Nishith Chandra, 31st Bn Commandant P N Prasad, 4th Bn Commandant Mukesh sharaf and 54th Bn Sukhwner Singh were also present on the occasion.

State govt. would update sports infrastructure and facilities, says DCM Chowna Mein

West Bengal: One dead, 13 injured in clash between mob, police PTI Baharampore, Sep 25: One person was killed and around 13 others injured, including nine policemen, in a clash, after a group of people blocked National Highway 34 in Murshidabad, West Bengal, demanding restoration of electricity to a village.

After talks failed, police resorted to lathi charge and the villagers responded by pelting stones. According to the police, some also threw small hand-made bombs in

retaliation.

“To safeguard public property and after being attacked by bombs, we had to fire in the air. After the crowd dispersed, we found a body 200 metre from the spot. It had multiple injuries,” Additional Director General of Police (law and order) Anuj Sharma said in Kolkata.

“Prima facie something happened when the crowd was retreating. An enquiry is on,” he said.

and north of the state.

The deceased has been identified as Jamal Sheikh (32) of Balida Pukur village bordering Jhikra village where there was no electricity for the last few days.

According to the police, Sheikh was not one of the protestors but was an innocent man standing at the wrong place at the wrong time. He was an innocent bystander who got caught in the middle of a protest when he was passing by the highway which linked the south

Residents of Jhikra and people from nearby villages started the demonstration at around 9:30 am on Sunday.

Twenty-one people were arrested in the case so far.

Nine policemen, including the inspector-in-charge of Farakka police station, were injured in the clash, Sharma said, adding that the police found bomb remnants and two live bombs on the spot.

Four villagers who were in-

jured during the clash were admitted to a hospital.

Two police vehicles, 15 buses and a car of a local government official were also damaged in the clash.

“Strict action will be taken against those who attacked the policemen and damaged public property,” Sharma said.

Contd. from Page 1

The blockade, which continued for around four hours, had put traffic out of gear. The situation is now under control, officials said.

Bamang Tago, Secretary ASBA cum Organizing Secretary and P Ankamma Choudary, Observer BAI and Kalyan Dutta, Joint Secretary ASBA also spoke on the

occasion.

Chief Guest and the host of dignitaries gave away the prizes that included cheques, medals and certificates to the winners of various categories.

Among others, Kumar

Waii, Minister of home, RWD and Labour & Employment, Deputy Speaker Alo Libang, Parliamentary Secretaries PD Sona, Jambey Tashi and Nyamar Karbak and Ratu Techi, President ASBA were also present on the occasion.

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26

BUSINESS

PAGE 5

Life insurers want exemption from GDP growth to top 8 pc on GST; general differential rates rains, reforms: Panagariya They feel that their premium income has remained stagnant since the industry was brought under service tax in 2012

Pic for Representation.

Mumbai, Sept 25: As the GST rollout plans gathers momentum, life insurers sought exemption from the new taxation regime on premium income, while general insurers have demanded differential rates for their products.

Life insurers, who are set to write to the Prime Minister seeking exemption from the new tax regime, feel that their premium income has remained stagnant since the industry was brought under service tax in 2012.

Since life insurers are passing on service tax to cus-

tomers, it has impacted their premium income growth which has been stagnant since then. The present servicetax rate is 14.5 per cent and 0.5 per cent 'Swachh Bharat' cess.

A resolution to this effect was passed during the annual general meeting of the Life Insurance Council held here on September 16.

The demand comes as the first two-day GST Council meeting that ended on Friday in the National Capital, decided to meet on October 17-19 to finalise the maximum and minimum ratesin

the single national taxation regime.

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has been repeatedly calling for ending tax exemptions to have lower GST rates as exemptions are forcing the government to impose higher rate of tax on other taxable items/sectors.

The Life Insurance Council, which is the umbrella body of 24 life insurers, is all set to write to the Prime minister in this regard shortly, as their representations to the finance ministry in the past have not been successful, a senior council executive said.

"Life insurers' new business premium has remained stagnant at around Rs 1.25 trillion per annum since 2012 after the service tax was imposed by the government on premium income. This is in spite of the fact that earning capacity of the people has been constantly increasing," Life Insurance Council secretary V Manickam told media.

"We have to pass it on to customers and they don't find investing in insurance attractive anymore," he added.(PTI)

Cong CMs to press for 18 pc GST cap New Delhi, Sept 25: Congress chief ministers and finance ministers are expected to press for an 18 per cent GST cap at the meeting of the three-day GST Council beginning October 17 and stress that a higher rate would burden the common man.

The party leadership has written to the chief ministers and finance ministers, asking them to firmly reiterate the capping of the GST rate at 18 per cent in the upcoming meeting.

Congress rationale is that a higher rate will burden the common man and will defeat the very purpose of GST to create a common market and reduce the burden on both -- producer and consumer.

The GST Council, headed

by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, at its first meeting last week, had decided to keep traders with annual revenue of Rs 20 lakh out

of the new national sales tax regime that will subsume all cesses. The exemption limit for north-eastern and hill states has been fixed at Rs 10 lakh.

The Council also agreed on the contentious issues of revenue threshold -- below which traders will be exempted from GST, and sharing of administrative powers. The all crucial GST rates will be decided in the meeting to be held from October 17.

It was also decided that the state authorities would have jurisdiction over assesses with annual turn over of less than Rs 1.5 crore.

The traders with annual turn over of over Rs 1.5 crore would be subject to cross examination either by officers from the Centre or state to avoid dual control.

Congress in its note to chief ministers insisted that the constitutional amend-

Himalaya to hire 1,000 people, eyes Rs 2,500cr revenue in FY18

Himalaya Drug Company CEO Philipe Haydon said the company is expecting revenues of up to Rs 2,500 crore in the next fiscal FY18.

Bengaluru, Sept 25: Maintaining over 20 per cent CAGR, wellness firm Himalaya Drug Company is looking at Rs 2,500 crore revenue next fiscal and plans to hire around 1,000 people as it enters new verticals and expands distribution network.

The homegrown firm had posted Rs 1,800 crore turnovers last fiscal and is expecting Rs 2,100 crore sales in 2016-17.

"We are expecting revenues of up to Rs 2,500 crore in the next fiscal FY18 maintaining a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 20 per cent year-onyear," Himalaya Drug Company CEO Philipe Haydon

told media.

At present, Himalaya's biggest vertical is personal care contributing 42 per cent to total sales, followed by pharmaceutical 32 per cent, baby care 15 per cent, animal health 5 per cent and wellness 5 per cent, he added.

"We have just launched mothercare products with the launch of 4 products followed by at least 8 products in next one and one and half years. We expect this segment to conntribute to 5 to 6 per cent to our revenues in next two years," Haydon said.

The company is aiming to expand presence in all the verticals it is in, he added. (PTI)

ment on GST was only passed after the government and the party negotiated and reached an agreement on principal demands of Congress.

The main demands were abolition of 1 per cent surcharge, compensation to states for revenue loss for 5 years, establishment of a dispute redressal mechanism and legal ring fencing of consolidated cap on GST rate.

"It was agreed that the rate will be reflected in the GST law that will be recommended by the GST council. It is important that the government honours the same," the party said.

Also the Council shall as per constitutional mandate establish a mechanism to resolve disputes that may arise from the implementation of GST law between the Centre and states or between states, it hoped.

(PTI)

New DelhI Sept 25: A good monsoon, reforms and timely decision making at the Centre will definitely push India's growth beyond the 8 per cent mark in subsequent quarters of this fiscal, Niti Aayog Vice-Chairman Arvind Panagariya has said.

"I am confident that it (GDP number) will be over 8 per cent in subsequent quarters (this fiscal)," Panagariya said.

Elaborating, he said, "This will happen because there will be impact of reforms also (besides a good monsoon).

We still have not seen (the impact of reforms).

There were serious governance issues earlier.

Projects were stuck. The decisions were not taken at the Centre."

India's growth rate slipped to a 6-quarter low of 7.1 per cent in AprilJune due to subdued performance of mining, construction and farm sectors.

The figure was 7.9 per cent in January-March.

Last year, Indian economy expanded by 7.5 per cent in the AprilJune quarter.

Admitting that the 7.1 per cent is a slight dampener in the first quarter, he said, "It was slightly lower

Parliamentary panel to examine merger of budgets New Delhi, Sept 25: With the Cabinet's approving the merger of Railway Budget with General Budget, the parliamentary panel on finance has decided to 'examine' the move along with its "ramifications thereof".

Ending a 92-year-old practice, the Cabinet had decided to scrap a separate budget for railways and merge it with General Budget, presentation of which would be advanced to spur spending and boost the economy.

The Committee on Finance has selected the "Budgetary Reforms including Merger of Railways Budget with General Budget -- Ramifications thereof," according to the Lok Sabha bulle-

tin dated September 22.

As part of a major overhaul of the budget process, the Cabinet headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi had also decided to do away with classifications of expenditure into Plan and Non-Plan, making the exercise simpler.

To facilitate early presentation of the Budget, the finance ministry had proposed that the Budget Session of Parliament be convened sometime before January 25, a month ahead of the current practice.

The parliamentary panel headed by the Congress MP M Veerappa Moily, will review the all budgetary reforms. (PTI)

Indian drug formulation market grows 15.3 pc in Aug Mumbai, Sept 25: The domestic formulation drug market grew by 15.3 per cent in August to Rs 9,643 crore over the corresponding month last year.

The growth was driven by 9.1 per cent expansion in volumes, 2.9 per cent rise in prices and 3.3 per cent in new launches, according to the data compiled by pharma market research company AIOCD AWACS. Indian companies grew by 17.1 per cent against 9 per cent growth for MNC pharma companies during the month.

Amongst the top 50 MNCs, Janssen grew by 23.2 per cent followed by Sanofi at

13.4 per cent and Abbott at 12.6 per cent over the same month last year.

Among the top 50 Indian corporates, Centaur had the highest growth rate at 42.5 per cent followed by Bharat Serums at 34.4 per cent, Apex at 34 per cent and Indoco Remedies at 33.7 per cent.

Following the regulatory ban on fixed dose combination, this segment showed a huge volume degrowth of 16.8 per cent. In revenue terms, Indian companies degrew by 11.1 per cent in the FDC portfolio whereas the MNCs degrew by 16.1 per cent, the data said. (PTI)

Pic for Representation than my expectations.

First quarter data did not have any impact of the good monsoon this year."

Now, Uber, Ola start services for government officers According to an official, the government will be able to save huge money as currently departments shell out as much as Rs 40,000 for one taxi per month.

New Delhi, Sept 25: Cab aggregators Uber and Ola are breaking new ground as they have started providing taxi services to government departments at special rates. They have registered at the portal of government e-marketplace (GeM), which was launched last month for buying goods and services by central ministries and departments with a view to bringing transparency in government procurement, which is estimated at Rs 10,000 crore a year.

According to an official, the government will be able to save huge money as currently departments shell out as much as Rs 40,000 for one taxi per month.

"What has been agreed is that they will give a monthly bill to us, something they have never done. Second, for the government, there is no surge pricing," the official said.

There is a growing demand for taxi services in government departments. These companies want to tap precisely that as they look at the scope of such business. "Everyday, we are looking for cars. If you get the Uber and Ola, it is economical and it is efficient.

You also get a complete tracking of distance and clear-cut billing," the official added.

Further, other aggregators will follow suit and it will increase competition and

ONGC Board approves pact to take stake in GSPC gas block New Delhi, Sept 25: The Board of state-owned ONGCBSE 0.40 % has approved signing of a preliminary agreement for buying a stake in Gujarat government firm GSPC's KG basin gas block.

The Board of Oil and Natural GasBSE 0.40 % Corp (ONGC) at its meeting on September 8 approved signing of an MoU for taking a stake in Gujarat Petroleum Corp Ltd's (GSPC) difficult gas block, sources privy to the development said.

The MoU approved strangely also incorporates a dispute resolution wherein any differences over issues like valuation or natural gas reserves would be referred to a three-member committee of outside experts.

Sources said this is perhaps for the first time that a memorandum of understanding (MoU) sets out a dispute resolution committee and it perhaps is indication of the pitfalls that ONGC anticipates in buying a stake in the block.

It has already differed with GSPC on the gas reserves the block holds and has ap-

ONGC approved signing of an MoU for taking a stake in Gujarat Petroleum Corp Ltd's (GSPC) difficult gas block.

pointed US-based consultant Ryder Scott to do an independent assessment.

The three member committee will have economist and former oil secretary Vijay Kelkar and former CVC P Shankar, they said adding the third member will be appointed in due course.

Once all the three members are in place, the MoU will be inked, the sources added.

Since the BJP-led govern-

ment came to power at the Centre, the Gujarat government firm GSPC has been seeking to sell a majority stake in its KG-OSN-2001/3 (Deendayal) block in Bay of Bengal to ONGC to avoid defaulting on loans.

ONGC initially was not keen to buy stake in the block as it felt the block had reserves far less than what GSPC was claiming and the asking price for the stake was not commensurate with the

India's foodgrain output is estimated to rise by 9 per cent to an all-time high of 135.03 million tonnes

in the kharif season (summer sown) of 2016-17 on record output of rice and pulses following bountiful rains.

Foodgrain production stood at 124.01 million tonnes (mt) in the kharif season of 2015-16 crop year (July-June).

Higher output of pulses will also help soften retail prices, which have remained a sticking point.

The country's overall food grain production had fallen to around 252 mt level in each of the previous two full crop years -- including kharif and rabi -- due to two consecutive years of drought. (PTI)

returns.

But it has now agreed to look at the possibility and the MoU is a step further in that direction, they said.

Ryder Scott Petroleum Consultants has been asked to evaluate gas properties in the GSPC block and independently certify the reserves quantities, the source said.

GSPC was to begin gas production from the block in 2013 but after sinking in USD 3.6 billion it was found that gas reserves are one-tenth of 20 trillion cubic feet claimed in 2005 and that too is technically difficult to produce.

In the process it has amassed Rs 19,576 crore of debt, on which interest cost was Rs 1,804.06 crore in 2014-15, according to the CAG. And against this its revenue was Rs 152.51 crore in 2014-15.

Sources said GSPC has been doing trial production of a very small volume of gas from August 4, 2014 and has not yet reached commercial production and in absence of revenue commensurate with the debt servicing obligations it risks becoming a defaulter.(PTI)

Pic for Representation. "we can save a lot of money," the official said further. To provide the services, Uber has created a separate mobile app for government officials.

Cab aggregators Uber and Ola are breaking new ground as they have started providing taxi services to government departments at special rates.

They have registered at the portal of government emarketplace (GeM), which was launched last month for buying goods and services by central ministries and departments with a view to bringing transparency in government procurement, which is estimated at Rs 10,000 crore a year.

According to an official, the government will be able to save huge money as currently departments shell out as much as Rs 40,000 for one taxi per month.

"What has been agreed is that they will give a monthly bill to us, something they have never done. Second, for the government, there is no surge pricing," the official said.

There is a growing demand for taxi services in government departments. These companies want to tap precisely that as they look at the scope of such business. "Everyday, we are looking for cars. If you get the Uber and Ola, it is economical and it is efficient.

You also get a complete tracking of distance and clear-cut billing," the official added.

Further, other aggregators will follow suit and it will increase competition and "we can save a lot of money," the official said further. To provide the services, Uber has created a separate mobile app for government officials. (PTI)

RBI on lookout for new premises for office, staff in Shimla New Delhi, Sept 25:The Reserve Bank is looking for new premises for its office and residential complex in Shimla near the famous Ridge on Mall Road.

Currently, the central bank functions from SDA Complex Basement-1, Kasumpti, in Shimla in Himachal Pradesh.

RBI has invited expression of interest (EoI) for acquiring land or premises (with or without constructed structure of up to 3,000 sq metre built-up area and land area of approximately 15,000 to 20,000 sq metre) for its proposed office building and residential complex.

"The property should be located in Shimla within an approximate radius of 4 km from Ridge on Mall Road, Shimla, with adequate road access," the central bank said. It further said preference will be given to the property offered by public sector banks, PSUs, government

departments, provided RBI's requirement thereof is in consonance with extant rules of the Bank or CVC. Inviting the bid till October 17, RBI also said offers from brokers will not be entertained and no brokerage will be payable.

The central bank is headquartered in Mumbai and has four zonal offices in Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata and Mumbai, in addition to 19 regional offices.

Regional offices are located in Ahmedabad, Bangalore, Bhopal, B h u b a n e s w a r, Chandigarh, Chennai, Delhi, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Jammu, Kanpur, Kochi, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Nagpur, Patna and Thiruvananthapuram.

It has sub-offices in Agartala, Dehradun, Raipur, Ranchi, Shimla and Srinagar, among others. It recently opened two more sub-offices in Aizawal and Imphal.

EDITORIAL

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26

Today's quote

“

All the powers in the universe are already ours. It is we who have put our hands before our eyes and cry that it is dark Swami Vivekananda

I, me, my selfie The ‘selfie’ or self-taken picture was invented in 1839 — but its time is now. As people hang selfies in every tech space, on mobile phones, social media and messages, the selfie’s bloomed into a million forms. We love our everyday selfie — a self-taken picture of you or me, working out, dancing at a wedding, eating cheesecake, even brushing our teeth.

But there’s also the glittering celeb-selfie, memorably mirrored in Ellen de Generes’ snap of 10 Hollywood superstars taking a break from bagging Oscars to huddle together and say cheese. There are political selfies, epitomised by the media-savvy Obamas, Barack even pausing from mourning Nelson Mandela at Madiba’s funeral to take a cheery selfie with David Cameron. The latter’s blase attitude — i love my selfie!

— perhaps inspired our own Narendra Modi to take a lotus-pose selfie by an election booth, distance be damned, which put him in trouble with the Election Commission. But other selfies make you acutely aware of distances. Like that taken by a Japanese astronaut, all alone in deep, dark space, a planet glowing philosophically before him, his camera reflecting poignantly in his glass helmet.

The selfie works in wondrous ways — it says hello to the world while recording intimate histories. It’s selfart, selfie-takers figuring the finest angles, the right light, the shadow play, that best captures them against the Qutub Minar, sporting that new skirt, deep in their lover’s arms. Nowadays they are redesigning mobile phones and their cameras to be able to capture better selfies. The selfie is your very own archive, your personal canvas and emotion, aided by constant technological innovation. For cynics who argue this is pure self-love, why not? It’s nice to love yourself and your life — and to share this through a selfie of your times.

Corruption thrives in secret places The openness that Wilson spoke of in the early 1900s is being actively sought after even 10 decades later. The concept of open data has been gaining momentum among local governments in recent years, but cities in India stubbornly cling onto their culture of opacity.

Open data refers to the process by which governments disclose information that is relevant to citizens and stakeholders in the public domain. This is crucial as it injects more transparency into governance, thereby making administrators more accountable. Opening up documents, budgets and decisions also helps spread awareness about government processes among citizens, thus giving them a sense of ownership and participation towards their city.

India has taken some strides towards openness by enacting the Right to Information Act, 2005 and also by launching the open data portal www.data.gov.in by the National Informatics Centre. But such transparency has largely been restricted to the national and state levels, not percolating to the working of local governments which determine the dayto-day life of ordinary citizens. The data portal, for instance, discloses information from 69 departments, 63 belonging to the Centre and three to state governments with no data from municipal governments.

India’s lack of openness has come to the fore recently. The Open Data Index created by the Open Knowledge Foundation in 2013 to evaluate the availability and accessibility of information ranked India a lowly 63rd out of 70 countries.

More recently, the annual survey of India’s city systems by Janaagraha, a Bangalore-based urban advocacy organisation, highlighted how Indian cities are still far from achieving global standards of openness.

The public disclosure law (PDL) is a case in point.

Janaagraha in its report released in early June analysed 21 Indian cities and found that 15 of them were covered by this law, but only eight have bothered notifying rules. Larger cities including Delhi, Kolkata and Ahmedabad are till date not covered by any such legislation. PDL is meant to facilitate public dissemination of operational and financial details of municipal services to citizens, promote efficiency in services, and allow comparison of municipal performance over time.

The Centre had drafted a model PDL towards this end, requiring cities to disclose their audited financial statements on a quarterly and annual basis, their service level benchmarks as well as details of major works. Sadly, laws covering only four cities (Mumbai, Pune, Patna and Ranchi) fully comply with this model legislation.

Political leaders who should be leading by example too prefer to hide behind closed doors. Municipal councillors do not disclose related party interests, making it near impossible for citizens to grasp whether political decisions are influenced by conflict of interest. Contrast this with London where the pecuniary interests of each councillor are openly available on the website of the Greater London Authority, with a detailed break-up of contracts and corporate ties they may hold or sponsorship they may have received.

A lack of information isn’t the only hurdle towards building effective citizen-government ties. Community participation too is seriously wanting. While 16 large cities have passed the community participation law, no city except Hyderabad has constituted area sabhas to involve citizens in policymaking at the neighbourhood level. Citizens rarely know where or how their city government spends the money it collects by way of taxes.

Pune is the only city where citizens are involved in the budgeting process, that too on the initiative of NGOs like Janwani. This is despite laws mandating public disclosure and despite citizen participation being a reform condition under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission.

This opacity is dismal at a time when cities across the world are investing all energies in open government practices. Participatory budgeting in municipal budgets was initiated as way back as 1989 in Porto Alegre, Brazil and nearly 1,000 cities including Montreal, Seville, Chicago and NYC have used it since.

Chicago was one of the first municipalities to appoint a chief data officer in 2012 and discloses useful data including boundaries of beat police officials, the status of pothole repairs, and city-owned land inventory.

PAGE 6

Equal freedoms for men and women — that’s independence: Laxmi, acid attack survivor Laxmi is an acid attack survivor. Assailed when she was 15, Laxmi’s PIL in the Supreme Court led to a directive for regulation of acid sales and greater compensation for survivors. Today, the 24year-old, awarded the International Women of Courage felicitation from US first lady Michelle Obama, is an activist with the Stop Acid Attacks campaign.

Laxmi discusses social changes around survivors, how hurtful remarks are decreasing —

dated one can’t sell acid without a licence, there’s very little regulation on this. We started a campaign where volunteers secretly filmed buying acid. They got it easily.

But awareness has increased. There are fewer problems for survivors in getting jobs.

Last year, two women got government jobs, albeit after a struggle.

Earlier, one heard nasty comments from people — but things have changed. Now people respect us — some even want to get What progress has oc- pictures clicked with us. curred since the Supreme Court directive Women have begun to on regulating acid speak out — and speaksales? ing up changes things.

Today, acid attack surThere’s practically no vivors are getting marimprovement — even ried or are in relationwhen the court man- ships. I’m in a relation-

ship too — everyone knows about it! I’m happy Alok Dixit, founder of Stop Acid Attacks campaign, recognised me for who i am rather than my face.

with a big crowd around. No one came forward to help. I kept asking for my father. I even rammed into a couple of cars.

Then someone realised what was happening and poured water on me. One man called the police, took me to hospital and became an eyewitness in the case. I remember my skin melting and dripping off while i was being transported. I had 45% burns. The doctors weren’t hopeful of my surviving.

Did you endure hurtful remarks?

Yes, almost whenever I’d go out. It would be common for someone to point at me and laugh.

I’d cross people on the street who’d say, ‘She looks smart from behind — but like a monster from the front.’

When I applied for jobs, I was turned away.

I was told my face The police were really would scare clients. helpful though. That evening, the police staA spurned stalker tion was overflowing atta-cked you — what with suspects rounded happened? up.

Well, he attacked at 10.30 in the morning Eventually, the police

zeroed in on the at- other. We spread legal and medical informatacker. tion. Meeting other surRejected men often vivors also makes us attack women — why angry — that anger do other acid attacks helps. happen?

What does indepenWomen get attacked dence mean to you? for not having a male Well, I celebrated Inchild. One woman had five daughters. Her hus- dependence Day in band threw acid on her school. We’d sing patwhile she was pregnant riotic songs and take because she refused a pledges — but these sex determination test. should mean someThere are property thing, right? These are disputes, domestic spats not just words. and rape cases where Women are not rapists force the victim treated equally in our to drink acid. country. I feel men and What do interactions women should have the with survivors teach? same kind of freedoms in India to do the same When i first met such things — freedom to girls, i was shaken to the wear their choice of core — I realised I clothes or anything else. wasn’t the only one. We That is independence. draw strength from each

Medicine for profits?

About three months ago, I was asked to talk about the biography of the founder-chairman of the group of hospitals I work in. This was a day before its official release. The biographer was a noted columnist of Newsweek and some important western dailies. I believe, one of the reasons of my being there was, that the chairman having related his story in so many interviews and queries, himself wanted to know how he had been caricatured, and how an ‘odd one out’ like me would interpret it. He is a man, as some of us call him, of multiple and tremendous instincts!

Branson, Henry Ford.

Medicine, I realized, had to run somewhere close to the principles of an enterprise,

Yes, the way the biographer chronicled it, it was all about getting a government sanction, bidding on a piece of land where luckily the tender opened favorably on the amount, beyond which there was no money in the kitty. It was about allocation of cement and steel and excise concessions on medical equipment coming for the first time in the country. It was about knocking the door of every joint secretary concerned, and arranging for guarantees for As I heard myself loans from banks. speak, before the hospital faculty, the chairThis chain of hospiman and the celebrated tals grew to be the largbiographer beside me est in Asia in three deon the dais, on an im- cades. It was a template portant biography read for many others to folovernight, I realized I low. The message I was speaking a truth I heard myself reason was never aware of. and listen to was that ‘corporatization’, I said that this book (meaning public was not a book on Dr shareholding, listing Zhivago, not on Dr on the stock exKotnis, certainly not on change), was perhaps the Mother Teresa mis- one viable method, sion. I was quite clear among others, to make that the framework of a hospital run in ‘profworking in making this its’. big a hospital chain was more like a biogA textile mill may raphy of Donald fall in debt, a major Trump, Richard studio may close

down, but a hospital closing down due to losses is a social catastrophe. In today’s economics, that makes a lot of sense.

I am writing this in the backdrop of popular measures being announced in changing quite a few practices that have ensnared the health systems in the country — the resurgent, and rather appropriate urge to ‘clean up’ the system. Nothing could be more appropriate and timely. I have no doubt that the common man should never be cheated, and the rich man never give up his wisdom and patience. That’s how society, systems, and nations run.

Along with this came, much to the respite of physicians and surgeons in mid and even small towns, not to mention the metros, near adequate private investigative infrastructures as CT scan machines, MRIs, nuclear scanning, and pathological work-up labs that can deliver some intricate tests in some of the remotest corners of this country The Indian health in a span of a day or structure, pharma in- two. cluded, has largely grown despite the govThis was service as I ernment, rather than a would see it first, and policy-based gover- to run it there came a nance. Beyond the business like structure. laudable ‘firsts’, as Why the governments AIIMS, PGIs, the ini- could not install and tial state-run medical maintain such facilicolleges, the system ties, for at least half of did not catch up with the population, is a the growing needs of question that probably healthcare, an un- has easy answers. One bridled population may say the governgrowth, and the thresh- ment did not have old changes in medical enough funds, or that science. private participation was believed to be In this circumstance, more competitive to private initiatives had the consumer, or for

On The Verge Of He wasn't a mean man, in fact he was a very kind man once you got around the usual discussion about how much he was going to achieve.

I saw him occasionally over the next few years and each time I spoke with him he was still going to achieve more than anyone would ever think.

The problem was that he still hadn't taken one step to implement any of his dreams - no actions at all.

You probably can guess what happened next. Well, maybe you just have a little inkling.

As the years passed by, and I went on my way to several new adventures in business, he remained where he

to set their camps.

Some were well-regulated, where there were well structured by well meaning industrial houses, corporate hospital chains as I have had some insight into, and nursing homes of repute run by senior faculty attached to teaching institutions.

was - same house, same job, and the same dreams. The last I heard of him just before I moved away was that he was not very well and had a hard time getting around.

I have been in my new location now for several years and recently was speaking with an old friend who also new this man. It seems that not that long ago, he passed away from a prolonged illness. I asked about whether he had achieved what he wanted or had started to take action towards any of his many dreams. The sad answer was no.

other reasons one may not like to state.

I am aware all patients, all doctors have to resort to support from this easily accessible infrastructure, that is prompt, has competitive rates. The reasons are again rather obvious. To take a shot at oneself, there could be doctors’ interest, perhaps these investigation centers announce packages to the patients, and patients of their own declare their intentions to avail themselves of that.

Quite often, there are third parties employed that may influence a patient, which could be a family kin that has a holding, and become a decision maker. Despite this, I am ready to agree that some methods have gone much beyond control. To sum up the sum, money transactions, whether it be currency conversion, credit card usage, ticketing, all run on mutual or even benefits across the chain.

Call it the grease and oiling, call it muck.

The one essential message here is that in a flight of righteous chauvinism, regulating agencies have to realize that this system still delivers, though in

many ways is now becoming destructively unethical.

There should be a wellthought policy how to replace the practices methodically by what are fair business practices that are viable and more importantly acceptable to the common man that he is not being cheated. It’s like refuelling a plane midair. One has to catch up to the speed and space, and there should be no jolt while the process is on.

The clean up may include transparency, definition of what are acceptable practices, deterrence where it should be used, and activating governmentrun centers, again by private participation if that be so. The wisdom of bringing about changes in a system that grew on its own to provide services, that thrived more because of need and subsequently runs on greed, will require mostly common sense, deciding what are reasonable charges for such services, and defining what may be called as ‘crossing the limits’, knowing just that slight difference of what makes the horse run, and what are the advantages, if any, of flogging a tired horse.

Child Labour Dear Sir, Through your esteemed newspaper I want to draw attention towards the problem of Child Labour in our society. We can find many childrens working in Dhaba, hotels and also as house- maid in many houses in our town. They are deprived of basic education and can be seen working harder for a very low monthly salary. Our Government should take proper steps in curbing out these practices from the society. There are many laws which fall under child labour but most of the times they are not followed. I hope through your newspaper I had conveyed my message to curb down this evil practice from our society.

Yours etc Sudip Bhattacharjee North Chowkidinghee Dibrugarh

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26

REST OF

PAGE 7

NORTHEAST

Mizoram ministerial panel to New projects, not fencing, needed on Indiaprobe mob attack at court Myanmar border: Nagaland CM

IANS Aizawl, Sep 25: A ministerial panel would probe Thursday's mob attack at a district court in Mizoram, state Home Minister R. Lalzirliana has said.

Lalzirliana told reporters in state capital Aizawl on late Saturday that the "ministerial committee would be formed" soon and it would "look into all aspects of the attack on thecourt buildings, ransacking court offices and the official residence of a civil judge".

A mob attacked the Lunglei district court buildings on Thursday and ransacked the official residence of a civil judge after a 26-year-old murder accused was brought before the court for allegedly killing a man in Zohnuai locality in Lunglei district on August 27.

The crowd demanded to see the accused, but police turned down their demand, leading to the

Guwahati High Court scuffle and later violence.

Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla and Guwahati High Court Chief Justice Ajit Singh separately condemned the incident.

Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland, besides Assam, fall under the jurisdiction of the Gauhati High Court, while Tripura, Meghalaya, Manipur and Sikkim have separate state High Courts.

An official of the Mizoram law department said that Gauhati High Court Chief

Justice Ajit Singh called it a "dark chapter" in the history and has urged the Chief Minister "to take stringent action against the culprits".

The official said the Chief Justice in a letter to the Chief Minister said a severe action must be taken to prevent similar future incidents.

The state police have arrested 27 suspects in connection with the mob violence and they have been remanded in judicial custody.

Dawki bridge project delayed for 7 years Agencies Shillong, Sep 25: Almost seven years after the foundation stone was laid, the construction of the much awaited Dawki alternate bridge, which is strategically and commercially important for the State, is yet to start.

It was on November 13, 2009, when the Congressled UPA was in power that the then Union Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways, Mahadev Singh Khandela, laid the foundation stone for the new Shillong-Dawki Bridge on River Umngot.

The new bridge once completed, will replace the existing single-lane British era suspension bridge that was built in 1932 as the overland link between the then provinces of East Bengal and Assam.

PWD (Roads) Minister Martin Danggo said after the laying of the foundation stone, the schedule of rates (SOR) fixed to construct the bridge had lapsed.

Danggo was the guest of honour when the foundation stone was laid. “The lapse of the earlier estimate led to re-submission of fresh estimates to the Centre, but the sanction is yet to be made and in the meantime, there was a new government at the Centre,” he said.

The Minister, however, said that he would visit Delhi sometime in October to pursue the matter and other pending projects.

As per the initial estimate, the new 165-metre RRC bridge was to be completed in 2011 at a cost of Rs 23.12 crore.

Earlier in 2010 and 2011,

three bidders had applied to take part in the tender process, but they did not fulfil the criteria prescribed by the Ministry.

In this context, the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways had decided to implement the project on the Engineering-Procurement-Construction (EPC) mode.

As per the EPC mode, the bidders to be selected will prepare their own estimates and the work will be allotted to the selected firm by the Ministry after comparing the estimates prepared by the Department and the bidders.

The contractor assigned by the selected bidder will be entrusted to prepare the design of the project, get the materials, procure equipment and complete the work.

Judges remind citizens about constitutional duties

Judges remind citizens about constitutional duties Agencies Shillong, Sep 25: In today’s world of violence, adopting and implementing basic fundamental duties by citizens will act as an effective deterrent to crime, said Justice S.R Sen at a function on Saturday.

Addressing the inaugural function of the Legal Care and Support Centre at Lady

Keane College on Saturday, Justice Sen said proper implementation of various provisions of the Constitution could curb many crime cases.

The Constitution says there should be no discrimination among people and that it is the duty of every citizen to respect its ideals

and institutions, the Tricolour and the National Anthem. “We cannot ask for our rights if we don’t do our fundamental duties well,” said Justice Sen. Justice Sen further said the State Legal Service Authority conducts awareness programmes in rural areas and it would continue to do so for the benefit of people. especially the downtrodden.

Chief Justice Dinesh Maheswari in his speech said, “We have duties to our personal self, family, state and towards the nation. We have fundamental duties and this starts from an individual.”

Earlier, Justice Ved Prakash said the objective of the support centre is to familiarise weaker section of the society with their rights and provide them all assistance in legal matters.

Over 1k trained under IBDLP Agencies Tura, Sep 25: Training programmes and the village adoption scheme were among the subjects of discussion at a recent meeting on Integrated Basin Development and Livelihood Programme (IBDLP) here.

West Garo Hills DC Pravin Bakshi said so far more than a thousand partners have been trained in piggery, poultry, floriculture, farming techniques and nursery under IBDLP in the past three years. The training was held at National Institute of Rural Development (NIRD) in Guwahati.

The training programme, which was conducted following the signing of an

MoU between the district administration and NIRD, will be extended to other fields like apiculture and dairy farming.

The adoption of Aminda Rangsa as a Model Village under the village adoption scheme of NIRD, North East Regional Centre (NERC) in Guwahati was also discussed on Friday.

Aminda Rangsa village falls under Gambegre C&RD Block of West Garo Hills and is fast turning into a tourist destination due to its unique wood carvings made by Handan Marak.

The village, which is open defecation free, got the status of ‘Nirmal Gram’ in 2011.

District Agriculture Officer

Crosspillar Marak said the Department is working in tandem with IBDLP to help farmers increase their income and highlighted the prospects of floriculture business, which flourishes in the wedding season in winter. A project for Nokrek region has been formulated for large-scale production. NERC Director R.M Pant said, “Achievement is possible by working together with the support and cooperation of everyone.”

Pushpita Das, Dean, College of Home Science in Tura, also briefed about the projects being implemented for making food items and soft drinks with indigenous products like jackfruit, amla, ginger and squash.

IANS Agartala, Sep 25: The Indian government should not fence the IndiaMyanmar border and, instead, undertake developmental projects, Nagaland Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang has said, adding that restrictions on various construction activities in border areas need to be relaxed.

"The government of India should abandon its plan to erect fencing along the India-Myanmar border... (it) must carry out developmental projects and build infrastructure, specially roads, along the border with Myanmar," Zeliang told IANS in an interview.

Four northeastern states - Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh -- "have already told the central government to stop its plans to fence the India-Myanmar border. The Union government is considering the proposal", said Zeliang, who was here to attend the third North East Connectivity Summit.

Security would not be compromised if the border is unfenced, he contended.

"With developmental projects, people residing along the border would

come together in a large way. Thus, inimical elements, including extremists, would not get scope for their nefarious and criminal activities," the Chief Minister maintained.

Four northeastern states - Arunachal Pradesh (520 km), Manipur (398 km), Nagaland (215 km) and Mizoram (510 km) -share a 1,643-km unfenced border with Myanmar.

"While everybody knows the logic behind fencing India's land borders with Pakistan and Bangladesh, this logic does not apply to India's land border with Myammar. In Nagaland, the international boundary does not follow a river or other landmarks. Rather, it follows the watershed principle."

He said that since Nagas and other tribals in northeast India generally set up their villages on hill-tops, the international boundary divides many villages into two. In the case of Longwa village in Mon district, for instance, the international boundary runs through the middle of the 'Angh's' (village chief's) house, where half of it is in India and the other half in Myammar.

"I cite this example to

Consent of cop must for DGP post: HDR Agencies Shillong, Sep 25: The State government will take the consent of senior police officers before finalising the name for the post of DGP, Home Minister H.D.R Lyngdoh has said.

Referring to the case of B. Kezo who did not join despite being selected for the post of the State police chief in 2012, Lyngdoh said that consent of the police officer is a must to avoid delays.

In November 2012, the State government had named B. Kezo, a 1978 batch IPS officer, as DGP. Kezo instead joined as DGP in Nagaland, his home state.

Earlier, after the retirement of DGP Rajiv Mehta on June 30, the next senior officer S.K Jain was appointed as acting DGP.

Since Jain will retire on October 31, the State government has initiated steps to select the new DGP. The five eligible senior IPS officers for the post of next DGP include Y.C. Modi (1984 batch), P.S. Purohit (1985 batch), R.P. Agrawal (1986 batch), who are all on deputation to the Centre, Raghvendra Awasthi (1985 batch), the current DG (civil defence and home guards), and S.B. Singh (1986 batch), the State Additional DGP in charge law and order.

Earlier on August 31, the meeting of the state security commission chaired by Chief Minister Mukul Sangma had discussed the need to appoint a full-time DGP by selecting one among these five IPS officers.

Five arrested with endangered geckoes

Nagaland Chief Minister T.R. Zeliang show how badly the Nagas and their ancestral lands have been divided by the India-Myammar border.

"Naturally, the villagers have to continue their movement across the international boundary almost on a daily basis for their agricultural and various other activities. Hence, border fencing is not a viable proposition," Zeliang explained.

"Another peculiar character of this sector is that in spite of the open and unguarded border, and in spite of the free-movement regime, there has been practically no migra-

tion of the native Nagas across the international border. This is basically because of the strong attachment the Nagas have for their ancestral land and because of their traditional land-holding system."

He demanded that restrictions on various construction activities in border areas need to be relaxed.

"The Defence and Home Ministries have imposed various restrictions on construction and other development activities within 25 km of aerial distance from the international border due to secu-

rity concerns. In the hilly terrain this distance can mean a lot," he added.

On the peace talks with National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak-Muivah (NSCN-IM), the chief minister said that that Nagas want peace and development and early solutions of their long-standing problems.

"Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) and Home Minister (Rajnath Singh) have informed us that the government has opted for a timebound discussion to resolve the decades-old Naga problem," Zeliang added.

The centre and the NSCNIM entered into a ceasefire agreement in August 1997.

More than 52 rounds of talks have been held to end the insurgency that is said to have claimed 25,000 lives since 1947.

The NSCN-IM has been fighting for an independent Nagaland for over six decades. But since the peace talks began, it has scaled down the demand to a "Greater Nagaland", including parts of three neighbouring states to unite areas inhabited by around 1.5 million Nagas.

The three states -- Assam, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh -- have opposed the demand.

National Mission on Bioeconomy launched sources for food, biobased products and bioenergy through knowledge-based approaches, he said.

National Mission on Bioeconomy launched

PTI Shillong, Sep 25: In order to boost rural economy by utilising bioresources, a National Mission on Bioeconomy was today launched here by the Institute of Bio-resources and Sustainable Development (IBSD) under the Ministry of Science and Technology.

The mission is unique to south-east Asia and India has become one of the few countries to have

tapped bio-resources, which when optimally utilized can create a large number of jobs at village level, IBSD chief Dinabandhu Sahoo said.

Stating that bioeconomy is a new concept, he said few countries like USA, Canada, European Union and Australia have started initiatives in this field.

The mission focuses on sustainable utilization of renewable biological re-

It could have the potential to generate new solutions for the planet's major challenges in the field of energy, health, food, water, climate change and deliver social, environmental and economic benefits, Sahoo said.

The latest estimate pegs India's fast-growing bioeconomy at $35 billion in 2015, which can even rise to $100 billion, he said.

Meghalaya Chief Secretary KS Kropha said the NE region is among the world's top 10 biodiversity hot spots and people should take advantage of these resources to improve their economy.

Minister calls for plastic-free city Geckoes Agencies Shillong, Sep 25: Five persons including a woman from the State were arrested for possessing geckoes.

Geckoes are in the list of endangered wildlife animals as per the Wildlife Act.

ber Marsing (42) were arrested from Mawiong Lynti Rim (Old GS Road), here with two geckoes in their possession.

It is yet to be known whether the seized geckoes were meant to be smuggled by the poachers.

This is the first time in the recent past that people of the State were held with geckoes.

According to police, on Saturday, at around 1:45 pm, five persons Kordor Lamare (53), a woman identified as Chanda Rynghang (44), Itynnad Lymphuid (28), Rikshon Makroh (80) and Decem-

There were reports from parts of the North East especially from Manipur regarding smuggling of geckoes, which have medicinal value, to South East Asian countries.

Many believe that medicines prepared from the meat of geckoes can cure various illnesses including HIV.

Agencies Shillong, Sep 25: Urban Affairs Minister R.V. Lyngdoh has appealed to the people of the State to shun use of plastic and join hands with the Government for ushering in a cleaner Shillong.

He was addressing the closing function of a Marathon for a Cleaner Shillong held here on Saturday.

Lyngdoh said it would be impossible for the government agencies alone to keep the town tidy unless the people themselves play an active role. He said he would shortly be approaching all stakeholders for their support to the cause.

The Marathon, which was conducted by the Rilbong Sports & Cultural Club on

the occasion of its diamond jubilee celebrations, saw nearly a thousand runners taking part in the 12-km run.

The runners took an oath for a Swachh Bharat.

The oath was administered by MLCU ViceChancellor R.G. Lyngdoh.

Earlier, Club President Manas Chaudhuri in his welcome speech said that the next programme of the jubilee is going to be “Dances of India” on October 6 at Rilbong Ground. The Club also proposes to hold a table tennis tournament, a youth festival and a food festival during the next couple of months.

Following are the prize winners of the marathon: Men: Anish Thapa (Gold), Suvraj Gurung (Silver)

and Maikhelsing Ramsiej (Bronze) and cash awards of Rs 10,000, Rs 7000 and Rs 4000 respectively.

Women: Pynhun Shulet (Gold), Kyntimon Marwein (Silver) and Dateiban Kynmaw Marwein (Bronze) along with cash prizes of Rs 10,000, Rs 7,000 and Rs 4,000 respectively.

Below-14: Libares K. Sohpoh (Gold), Cheerag Sunrassi Thapa (Silver) and Stevenson Swer (Bronze) with cash prizes of Rs 5,000, Rs 3000 and Rs 2000 respectively.

The oldest male runner was Sanjib Choudhury (72) and the oldest woman to run was Beatrice Pde (69). Threeyear-old Vanvine Kharsati was adjudged the youngest runner.

INTERNATIONAL Pakistan accuses PM Modi of 'well thought out vilification campaign

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26

Islamabad, Sept 25: Pakistan on Sunday rejected Prime Minister Narendra Modi's assertion that it was exporting terror, saying the remarks were part of a "well thought out vilification campaign" to distract attention from Kashmir.

Pakistan Foreign Office, in a statement, said Prime Minister Modi in a public meeting in Kerala"tried to malign Pakistan".

"It is unfortunate that Indian leadership continues to indulge in a well thought out vilification campaign against Pakistan by making provocative statements and baseless accusations. Such irresponsible display of behaviour at the highest political level is regrettable," the Foreign Office said.

"It is evident that, as an act of desperation, India is trying to distract world attention from theatrocities perpetrated" by its forces in Kashmir against "innocent and defenseless" Kashmiris, including children and women, the state-

China commissions world's largest radio telescope, boosts hunt for extraterrestrial life Over 600 apartments have been built in two new settlements, about 10 kilometers to accommodate the displaced people.

Beijing, Sept 25: China today commissioned the world's largest radio telescope which has a 4,450-panel reflector as large as 30 football pitches, boosting the global hunt for extraterrestrial life.

Hundreds of astronomers and astronomy enthusiasts witnessed the official launch of the 500 meter Aperture Spherical Telescope's (FAST) mission in a karst valley in Pingtang County in southwest China's Guizhou Province as it received its first signals from space.

The telescope is beginning an intensive testing phase. It will now take three years to calibrate the instrument so it can become fully operational.(PTI)

to tell the leadership of Pakistan that the sacrifice of our 18 jawans will not go in vain," Modi told a public meeting on the Kozhikode beach held on the sidelines of the BJP national council meet.

He said while countries in Asia are working to make the 21st century Asia's, Pakistan is engaged in a conspiracy of causing bloodshed across the continent by sponsoring terrorism and killing innocents.

Pakistan's reaction came after Prime Minister Modi launched a blistering attack on it for the Uri attack. ment said.

The "atrocities" in Kashmir intensified since the "extrajudicial killing of Kashmiri youth leader" Burhan Muzaffar Wani in July this year, it said of the slain Hizbul Mujahideen commander.

Pakistan's reaction came after Prime Minister Modi launched a blistering attack

on it Saturday in his first public address after last Sunday's deadly Uri terror attack.

Modi said the sacrifice of 18 soldiers will not go in vain while all out efforts will be made to isolate Pakistan globally.

"Terrorists should hear out clearly that India will never forget the Uri attack...I want

The Pakistan Foreign Office statement alleged, "In the last seventy-five days, Indian occupation forces have brutally martyred more than 100 Kashmiris, blinded hundreds and injured thousands."

The Foreign Office claimed that the international community has taken notice of these "blatant human rights violations" with concerns expressed by several countries as well as UN and Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

HIGHLIGHTS The statement said that PM Modi's verbal attacks were an attempt to malign Pakistan Pakistan said the 'vilification campaign' against it was India's way of diverting attention from the Kashmir issue It also accused India of sponsoring terrorism in Pakistan It also accused India of continuing to sponsor terrorism in Pakistan through state apparatus.

"The arrest and confession statements of a serving Indian Navy officer and intelligence operative, Kulbhushan Jadhav, reveal beyond a shadow of doubt as to how India fuels terrorist activities in various parts of Pakistan, including Balochistan and FATA (Federally Administered Tribal Areas)," the statement said.(PTI)

Hong Kong refugees protest to call for Snowden pardon Hong Kong, Sept 25: Activists and refugees staged a protest in Hong Kong on Sunday calling on Washington to pardon fugitive whistleblower Edward Snowden, with protesters describing refugees in the city as "heroes" for helping him evade authorities in 2013.

The former National Security Agency contractor, who released thousands of classified documents revealing the vast US surveillance put in place after the September 11 attacks, currently lives in Russia.

He fled with documents to Hong Kong, where he hid among Sri Lankan refugees in cramped tenements, and later received political asylum in Russia after the United States revoked his passport while he was en route to Ecuador.

The New York Times reported he stayed with at least four refugees with the help of a human rights lawyer in the southern Chinese city.

Protesters said the city's refugees, many of them forced to live in slum-like conditions, and Snowden

Edward Snowden both suffered rights abuses.

"We are forced to leave our country like Snowden. We stand together with him to fight for pardon," a 36-yearold refugee from Indonesia, who only gave her name as Dede, told AFP. Around 50 protesters chanted "Pardon Snowden" and "We are not criminals" as they marched to the US consulate, with some holding placards that read "No racism. Stop Oppressing refugees".

Protest organisers said 11,000 refugees have applications for protection pend-

Bangladesh to erect barbed wire Northern China fence on border with India hit by smog Jessore, Sept 25 : With India looking to completely seal the Indo-Bangla border in Assam soon, a top Bangladeshi security commander has said his country has decided to erect a barbed wire fence along the border with India and Myanmar.

Director General of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), Bangladesh's border guarding force, Major General Aziz Ahmed told a visiting group of Indian journalists here that his government has already approved a project to have a 282 km road along the border it shares with India and Myanmar.

While India borders Bangladesh from three sides (4,096 km), it shares a small 271 km border with Myamnar on its eastern flank.

"Our government, in principle, has agreed to have barbed wire fencing along the borders with India as well as Myanmar. In principle, it has also been decided to have link roads all along the border like India is having which facilitates BSF activities and those of the Myanmarese border guarding forces," the BGB chief said while speaking via video-link at the headquarter of BGB's south-west region here from his office in Peelkhana in Dhaka.

Sushma Swaraj to address UNGA; strong response to Pakistan expected

He said it was "unfortunate" that these "two basic needs" of having a barbed wire fence and roads has not been developed on the Bangladeshi side till now.

Ahmed said these projects are under "active consideration" of his government.

Ahmed made the remarks while replying to a question where he was asked what was Bangladesh's response to the India which had recently said that the IndoBangla border in Assam will be fully sealed by June, 2017 and later all along.

"You would understand that all these things require huge amounts of money...but the government has already approved a project for 282 km where roads along with barbed wire fence will be erected and possibly that will start from the Myanmarese side," Ahmed said.

He said as India has already raised fence along 79 per cent of the Indo-Bangla border, it "indirectly helps" his country in checking crossborder crimes.

The DG stated that in a large number of cases where BSF approaches them for construction of fencing along the border, they give a "prompt consent" except in few instances where the construction is very close to the zero line and there are

issues involved.

"After all, Indian fencing helps us too," he reiterated.

The top commander said the two border guarding forces are also working to create a database of habitual offenders active along the IndoBangla frontier as he accepted that this was a "weak" point in ensuring effective border security and trans- border movement of terrorists and criminals was a "serious concern" for them. The BGB chief, who will lead a delegation to New Delhi for the bi-annual DGlevel talks with their counterparts Border Security Force (BSF) beginning October 30, also said he has given "clear instructions" to his men to crackdown on cross-border cattle smuggling incidents after the Indian establishment ordered a complete clampdown on this criminal activity sometime back.

"We don't want Indian cattle into Bangladesh. I can say we have become self sufficient over the years in food grains that we are exporting it now...a day will come when we will export cattle. Our main concern and priority is to stop killing of Bangladeshi nationals by BSF. "More than 95 per cent of border killing is due to cattle smuggling. This issue will

surely be discussed during the DG level talks that will take place soon," he said.

The DG expressed his strong disapproval on the killing of Bangladeshi citizens in BSF firing and said such situations can be negated without killing a person.

"Our soldiers are also attacked by smugglers (like BSF) and we use lethal weapons...but we don't kill them," he said.

A BGB data said while 21 Bangladeshis have been killed till September this year along the Indo-Bangla border, the figures for the previous years stood at 45 (2015) and 40 (2014).

Ahmed denied existence of any camps of Indian Insurgent Groups (IIGs) on their soil after BSF handed them over various dossiers in this regard in the past saying there has been "no signs of any hideouts or camps" after their forces conducted operations in areas identified by their counterparts.

Talking about Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN), Ahmed said his country was "very concerned" about the issue.

These notes were being prepared outside Bangladesh and routed through its territory, he said.

"It is not only affecting Indian economy but also ours," he added.(PTI)

Bangladeshi smuggler killed in BSF firing: officials Baharul Islam was killed as India's Border Security Force (BSF) personnel opened fire at Purbochhat Karaibari area around 4am, bdnews24 quoted a Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) outpost official as saying.

"Leading India's delegation to the 71st UNGA. EAM @SushmaSwaraj arrives in New York," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Vikas Swarup tweeted.

New York, Sept 25 : External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj is set to address the UN General Assembly tomorrow with all eyes set on her speech in which she is expected to deliver a stinging response to Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's "tirade" on Kashmir.

Swaraj arrived here yesterday afternoon and will address the UN general debate tomorrow morning.

"Leading India's delegation to the 71st UNGA. EAM @SushmaSwaraj arrives in New York," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Vikas Swarup tweeted.

Swaraj is expected to give a

PAGE 8

stinging response to Sharif's UN General Assembly (UNGA) speech, in which he had focused elaborately on Kashmir.

India's strong Right of Reply to his speech called Pakistan home to the "Ivy League of Terrorism" and a "terrorist state" that commits "war crimes" by using terrorism as an instrument of state policy.

Outlining India's focus for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session, India's envoy to the UN Syed Akbaruddin had said that terrorism is the "primary concern" for India as well as for nations across the world. (PTI)

Dhaka, Sept 25: A 35-yearold Bangladeshi smuggler was allegedly killed and his accomplice injured on Sunday by BSF near IndoBangla border, officials said.

The incident occurred in the wee hours in northern Kurhigram area's Roumari Upazila.

Baharul Islam was killed as India's Border Security Force (BSF) personnel opened fire at Purbochhat Karaibari area around 4am, bdnews24 quoted a Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) outpost official as saying.

Another Bangladesh national, said to be the accomplice of Baharul, was also injured in the firing, the outpost's commander Abdul Aziz said.

"Baharul Islam was a smuggler. That is why he had crossed the border so early in the morning and was shot," he was quoted as

Cattle smuggling, which is the "root cause" for firing incidents across the Indo-Bangla border, has dwindled to about one per cent in the past one year after India's clampdown on the illegal trade. saying by the report.

Aziz, while quoting locals, said troopers from BSF's Gutalu camp fired at the Bangladeshis. "A seriously injured Baharul tried to reach his home and died near his house," he added.

Cattle smuggling, which is

the "root cause" for firing incidents across the IndoBangla border, has dwindled to about one per cent in the past one year after India's clampdown on the illegal trade, top Bangladeshi border guard officials have said.(PTI)

NMC suggested people avoid outdoor activities and take precautions during the period.

Beijing, Sept 25: The national observatory forecast on Sunday that light to medium smog will continue to shroud northern China over the next two days.

Parts of northern China and provinces along the Yangtze, Yellow and Huaihe rivers will experience light to medium smog from Sunday through Monday, according to a statement on the National Meteorological Center (NMC) website.

The NMC suggested people avoid outdoor activities and take precautions during the period.

Starting Tuesday, rain and a cold front will disperse the smog, said the NMC. According to the Beijing Environmental Protection Monitoring Center, Beijing experienced serious smog on Saturday despite showers over the past two nights.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) reading was 229 at 6 p.m.

Saturday, indicating serious pollution, with the major pollutant being PM2.5, or particulate matter measuring less than 2.5 microns in diameter, according to the center.(PTI)

Britain worried over growing tension between India and Pakistan British High Commissioner in Pakistan Thomas Drew met Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif in Lahore Lahore, Sept 25: Britain has expressed serious concern over the growing tension between India and Pakistan in the wake of Uri terror attack, asking both nuclear powers to ease it off.

"Britain wants easing of tension between Pakistan and India as it is concerned over the current situation (in the wake of Uri attack)," British High Commissioner in Pakistan Thomas Drew said on Saturday.

Drew met Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif in Lahore and discussed matters of mutual interest, promotion of bilateral relations and the situation in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK).

According to a release issued by the Punjab government, the British High Commissioner said, "Like other countries, Britain also wants easing of tension between Pakistan and India. Britain is concerned

over the tension between the two countries. It is against violation of human rights anywhere in the world".

He said Pakistan's political leadership is showing a responsible attitude in the current situation.

Drew said Shahbaz Sharif was the first foreign leader who telephoned Teresa May on her nomination as the Prime Minister of Britian and conveyed good wishes for her.

"British Prime Minister Theresa May is expected to visit Pakistan next year," he said.

Sharif said Britain should play its role in resolution of the Kashmir issue in the light of UN resolutions and aspirations of Kashmiri people.

He said Pakistan is a peaceful country and wants durable peace in the region.(PTI)

ing but have no official status and no right to work.

"The Hong Kong government thinks refugees are criminals... but they are true heroes. They helped Edward Snowden escape the US government back in 2013," Sally Tang of Socialist Action told reporters at the rally.

Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and the American Civil Liberties Union have launched a campaign to pressure President Barack Obama to pardon Snowden, who is also the subject of an Oliver Stone movie.(PTI)

8 killed, over 30 injured in accident in China Beijng, Sept 25: At least eight people have been killed and 32 others injured when a bus collided with a truck in China's north Inner Mongolia autonomous region, officials said today.

The accident took place late yesterday in Yakeshi city, administered by Hulunbuir city, the government of Hulunbuir said in a statement.

The truck was trying to avoid a horse that dashed onto the road when the collision happened, staterun Xinhuanews agency reported.

Further investigations were under way.(PTI)

Strong 6.8 earthquake strikes off Fiji: USGS quake monitor Washington, Sept 25: A powerful 6.8-magnitude earthquake has struck off Fiji but there was no threat of a tsunami, US seismologists said.

The offshore quake hit at 9:28 am (local time) and was centred around 100 km northeast of Ndoi Island, Fiji, the US Geological Survey (USGS) said on its website. The Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre said there was no tsunami threat.(PTI)

Two Hungarian police officers injured in explosion at shop in downtown Budapest Budapest, Sept 25: An unidentified type of explosion rocked central Budapest late on Saturday, causing injuries to two police officers nearby, police said in a statement on Sunday.

"The police have involved experts for the review of the area, interviewing witnesses and collecting data," the statement said. "The local and expert examination of the origins of the explosion and the review of the damage is under way."

Police said there were no further injuries from the explosion, which occurred around 10:30 p.m. local time (PTI)

PAGE 9 EDUCATION What are the steps of becoming a doctor in India? 14 Benefits for Indian Air

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26

Become a doctor and change your life and people around you. Perhaps, there is no other career which commands such a respect and awe as medicine. The power to heal has placed the medical profession several rungs above all others. A doctor ’s profession involves a lot of hard work with a good degree of dedication and at the same time, it also brings with it the satisfaction of having cured people suffering from illness, disease and trauma.

A simple degree in medicine is however not enough for making a successful and a satisfactory career. One needs to do specialization in any of the branches of medicine or surgery to become a specialist of certain kind e.g. Pediatrics, Ophthalmology, Gynecology, Surgery, Neurosurgery, Neonatology etc.

Medical Apex Bodies These are the apex Bodies that governs the Medical Profession and allied services in the country. · Medical Council of India (MCI) · Dental Council of India (DCI) · Pharmacy Council of India (PCI) · National Board of Examination (NAT Board) Basic Pattern of Medical Courses · Undergraduate Courses · Postgraduate Courses · Super Specialty Courses M. B. B. S. (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) This program is a 5 ½ years course divided into three professionals of three semesters each. A semester comprises of 18 months. A wide range of subjects like anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, pathology, pharmacology, forensic medicine, general medicine, surgery, ophthalmology, ENT (ear, nose, throat), gynecology, orthopedics as well as preventive and social medicine are taught. The last 1 year is devoted to compulsory rotating internship.

B. D. S. (Bachelor of Dental Sciences) This program is of 4 years duration followed by 1 year compulsory rotating internship. A wide range of courses like basic anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pharmacology and microbiology are taught. Specialization in dentistry and handson-practice are during the two final semesters.

B. H. M. S. (Bachelor of Homoeopathic Medicine & Surgery) This program is of 5 ½ years duration including one year compulsory internship. The Homoeopathic Education in India is presently monitored by the National Institute of Homoeopathy, which is a statutory Central Government body.

B. A. M. S. (Bachelor of Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery) This program is of 5 ½ years duration. The Ayurvedic Education in India is presently being monitored by the Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM), which is a statutory Central Government body.

B. U. M. S. (Bachelor of Unani Medicine & Surgery) This program is an undergraduate degree course in Unani Medicine & Surgery.

The Unani Education in India is being monitored by the Central Council of Indian Medicine (CCIM), which is a statutory Central Government body.

B. V. Sc. & A. H. (Bachelor of Veterinary Sciences & Animal Husbandry) This programme is a 5 ½ years course in Veterinary Science and Animal Hus-

bandry. The Veterinary education in India is being monitored by the Veterinary Council of India.

B. Pharm. (Bachelor of Pharmacy) This program is a 4 years degree course in pharmacy.

The course prepares eligible professionals for pharmaceutical industry. These professionals are in great demand in India and abroad. The monitoring work is being carried out by the Pharmacy Council of India.

B. Sc. – Nursing (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) The duration of B.Sc. nursing course varies between 3 to 4 years. Specialization in Operation Theatre, Cardiac Care and surgery are also available. In India, Nursing Council of India is the Governing body for this program.

B. P. T. (Bachelor of Physiotherapy) This program is a graduate degree course offered by different medical colleges of the country. During the course, one learns the scientific procedures used in the treatment of a patient with disability, disease or injury to achieve and maintain functional rehabilitation .This program also focuses on prevention of malfunction or deformity.

B. O. T. (Bachelor of Occupational Therapy) This program is a graduate degree course in occupational therapy which is offered by different medical institutes of the country.

The programme prepares professional therapists who help people with physical or mental disabilities in achieving maximum functioning and independence at home and at the workplace.

B. M. L. T. (Bachelor of Medical Laboratory Technology) The B.Sc. programme in medical laboratory technology is offered by differed medical colleges/institutions across the country.

The degree awarded is B.Sc.-M.L.T. The medical technologists are an integral part of the medical profession These professionals get involved in practical and technical work to aid correct diagnosis and in the functioning of Biochemical Laboratories.

Postgraduate Courses M.D. (Doctor of Medicine) This program is 3 years course that leads to postgraduate degree in medicine. Doctors possessing M.B.B.S. degree are eligible to for this course. This program is a specialized program in general medicine. A doctor after successful completion of this course is eligible to work as a Physician.

M.S. (Master of Surgery) This program is 3 years course that leads to postgraduate degree in surgery.

Doctors possessing M.B.B.S. degree are eligible to for this course. A doctor after successful completion of this course is eligible to work as Surgeon.

Postgraduate Diploma Postgraduate diploma program in medicine is offered by various medical colleges or institutions across the country for MBBS degree holders. The duration of the program varies from 2 to 3 years.

Super Specialty Courses DM / MCh DM is a super specialty program in medicine of 2 to 3 years duration. The entry requirement for this course is MD (Doctor of Medicine) M.Ch is a 2 years super specialty program in surgery.

The entry requirement for this course is MS (Master of Surgery) General procedure for ad-

missions to Under Graduate courses Medical colleges in India all private as well as government medical institutes, for admissions, follow the eligibility criteria prescribed by their respective university.

However, in general terms the candidates seeking admission to a medical college should have passed Senior Secondary Examination of CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) or its equivalent with physics, chemistry, and Biology.

Most of the Government Medical Colleges offer admissions to Indian students on the basis of their performance in a competitive entrance test; however, few Government Medical Colleges have some quota for NRI/Foreign students. The NRI/Foreign students willing to get admission in a medical college or university/ institute may contact the concerned authority directly for procedural details.

Different state boards conduct entrance exams for admission in the medical colleges and hospitals on behalf of the state government.

Various autonomous medical colleges and hospitals also conduct their own entrance test examination for entry.

Education Qualification: 10+2 or equivalent with physics, chemistry and biology from any recognized Indian board.

Entrance Exam: The candidates have to appear in the written entrance examination for admission in the medical colleges and hospital as suggested by the entrance exam conducting board. A candidate may also have to appear in the interview test / personality test etc. if asked by the examination conducting board.

The exact pattern of entrance examination, syllabus and interview/personality test (if any) is published by the board in the information brochure which is made available on sale with the application form.

Result: The merit list of the successful candidates who are eligible for admission is declared by the board of examination.

Final Selection: Candidates are called for counselling by the concerned authority; where one has to go for the submission of certificates, course fee, physical tests etc.

After successful completion of the process as fixed by the concerned board an aspiring candidate can take admission in the medical college and hospital allotted by the board leading to a medical degree.

Entry Requirements Candidates who have passed 10+2 exam with physics, chemistry and biology (Zoology & Botany) are eligible for admission into MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine & Bachelor of Surgery) course. Selection for the course is through all India competitive entrance examination or state level competitive entrance examination.

The all India entrance exam conducted by the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), New Delhi.

And state level entrance exam is conducted by the designated authority of the state for the purpose. Candidate must be an Indian National for admission through All India Entrance Exam or where of the concerned state where he/she wants to take admission.

There are also separate examinations conducted by various deemed universities and autonomous organisations for the purpose of medical education and training.

Medical Entrance Examination Admission in the different medical colleges and hospitals of the country for the purpose of producing medical professionals is done through various entrance examinations. These entrance examinations are conducted by the conducting boards or organizations at All India Level or State Level.

The purpose of conducting these entrance examinations is selection of candidates for admission in the different medicine courses available in different medical colleges & hospitals at diploma, degree, post-diploma, postgraduate degree and research level.

Generally the entrance examination for admission in the diploma and degree courses is held separately at all India level and state level. However, the entrance examination for admission in the post graduate degree and research programmes is done on an all India basis or state basis.

If one figures in the merit list of an entrance examination, he/she is placed on a platform from where one can choose a number of career options available in the field of medicine.

A candidate willing to take admission in any medical college and hospital of the country can choose to appear in any of the medical entrance examinations.

Some of the Important Medical Entrance Examinations All India Pre Medical Test (AIPMT) All India Institute of Medical Science (AIIMS) Armed Forces Medical Core Entrance (AFMC) Aligarh Muslim University (AMU) Annamalai University (AU) – Medical Entrance Exam All India Pre-Veterinary Test (AIPVT) Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences (AIMS) MBBS & BDS Entrance Test Association of Management of Unaided Private Medical and Dental Colleges-(Asso-CET) Banaras Hindu UniversityPre Medical Test (BHUPMT) Bharati Vidyapeeth University (BVU-CET) Combined Entrance Examination (CEE), Kerala Consortium of Medical, Engineering and Dental Colleges of Karnataka-(COMEDK) CHRISTIAN MEDICAL COLLEGE(CMC), VELLORe Common Entrance Test (CET)-Jammu & Kashmir Common Entrance Test (CET)-Karnataka Common Entrance Test (CET), Punjab University Delhi University MedicalDental Entrance Test (DUMET) Directorate of Medical Education and Research (DMER), Maharashtra Engg., Agriculture & Medical Common Entrance Test (EAMCET) Gujarat Common Entrance Test (GUJCET) Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University MBBS Entrance Test (GGSIPU-CET) H.P. Combined Pre-Medical Entrance Test Jawaharlal Institute of postgraduate medical education and research, Pondicherry (JIPMER) Mahatma Gandhi Dental College and Hospital – BDS – Joint Entrance Test (JET) Maharashtra Health Science & Technical Common Entrance Test (MHT-CET) Maharashtra Super Speciality Entrance Test (MHSSET) Meenakshi Academy Of Higher Education And Research (MAHER) Masters in Medical Sciences Technology (MMST)

Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences Competitive Entrance Examination (MGIMS-CEE) PGMAT- Bihar Combined Entrance Competitive Examination Board Pre Medical Test (PMT)Haryana Pre Medical Test media=”"(PMT), Madhaya Pradesh Pravara Institute of Medical Sciences -All India Common Entrance Test Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research, Chandigarh Pre Medical Test (PMT), Rajasthan PG Medical Entrance Test, Jammu& Kashmir Punjab Medical Entrance Test (PMET) – Punjab SRM Institute of Science and Technology Uttaranchal Pre-Medical Test (UPMT) Uttar Pradesh Combined Pre Medical Test (UPCPMT) Uttar Pradesh Common Admission Test – Dental (UPCAT – Dental) Undergraduate Admission Written Test (UG AWT) UP Post Graduate Medical Entrance Examination (UPPGMEE) Veterinary Council of India (VCI) Specializations in different streams of Medical Specializations in different streams of medicine are available in a number of disciplines. We are discussing in general a few of them here.

Medicine: An M.B.B.S. doctor who specializes in medicine and acquires an M.D. (Doctor of Medicine) degree becomes physician.

A physician job is to understand patient’s problems, study the results of clinical tests, diagnosing the illness and then prescribing the course of treatment.

Pediatrics: A medical doctor who specializes in Pediatrics is called Pediatrician.

A pediatrician deals with the children’s health from newborn to adolescents. A pediatrician diagnoses and conducts treatment of the disease peculiar to children.

Cardiology: Cardiology deals with disorders of the heart. A Cardiologist performs specialized work like angiography, angioplasty etc.

Obstetrics and Gynecology: Obstetricians and Gynecologists diagnose and treat the disorders in female reproductive organs. Obstetricians and Gynecologists also conduct operations like caesarian, laparoscopies and hysteroscopies. These specialists also deal with ovarian cancer and other illnesses related to reproductive systems.

Neurosurgery: Neurosurgery is the surgical discipline focused on treating the central and peripheral nervous system. Neurosurgical conditions include primarily brain and spinal cord disorders. The medical doctors specialized in this field are called Neurosurgeons.

Orthopedics: Orthopedic surgeons deal with illness of the skeletal structure.

They diagnose and treat fractures and disorders of the skeletal frame. An orthopedic suggests therapies and exercise for patients which are conducted by Physiotherapists.

Ophthalmologists: Ophthalmologists diagnose and conduct treatment for the diseased human eye. Ophthalmologists are trained to conduct surgeries of the eye, operations for the removal of cataract, treatment of glaucoma and other such diseases and infections of the eye.

Psychiatry: A medical doctor who has specialized in Psychiatry is called Psychiatrist. A psychiatrist treats mental, emotional or behavioral disorders.

Force Serving Personnel

Every organization where you work may provide you with other benefits apart from your salary, we always love to get something extra from the organization where we are spending most of our time working. But, many of us do not know that defence organisation do a lot for their serving and retired personnel which hardly few private firms are doing. Here a the list of benefits which a serving personnel gets in Indian air force.

Once you become a part of the Indian Air Force family, you enjoy many facilities and benefits. From housing facilities to free ration, from medical facilities to schools for your children, IAF takes care of all your needs. You continue to avail some of these benefits even after your retirement.

Benefits for Serving Personnel 1. Insurance: All Air Force personnel, including Flight Cadets are provided life insurance cover under the Air Force Group Insurance Scheme (AFGIS). Monthly contribution rates are minimal and the insurance policy covers all contingencies.

As an Air Force Officer you are insured for an amount of Rs 50 lakhs with an additional insurance cover of Rs 10 lakhs for pilots.

2. Loans: As a member of AFGIS, you can avail following loans: · House Building Loan · Computer Loan ·Conveyance Loan 3. Medical: All Air Force officers, their families and dependents have free access to medical rooms and hospitals equipped with the best of facilities. Apart from being treated at the Armed Forces Hospitals, there are also tie ups with Civil Hospitals for treatment of specialised cases, if required. Patients are also given grants for purchase of necessary medical

equipment and mechanical aid to help make them self-reliant.

4. Scholarships and welfare schemes from AFWWA( Air Force wives welfare association) 5. Accommodation: Free accommodation for serving personnel of Indian air force.

6. Leave: Annual leave for 60 days and casual leave of 20 days per year 7. Rations: Ration facility in Indian air force.

8. Institute and Messes membership: Various institute and mess memberships for serving personnel.

9. School facilities: Air force schools for kids inside the air force campus.

10. Rail concessions: Get free and conssession in rail tickets.

11. Secured camp life: Secured air force campus with state of the art security.

12. CSD facilities: Canteen store department facilities.

13. Sports facilities: Various sports inside air force campus like, basketball, football, cricket, gym etc.

14. Educational Opportunities: Once you join the Air Force, you realise that behind all the action and adventure is a lot of effort towards academic pursuits. From the moment you are selected, till the time you retire, you are continuously honing your skills with a large number of in-service courses and other educational avenues. · If you join the Air Force through NDA, you earn yourself a Bachelor’s Degree in Science or Computer Science. · The IAF also

sponsors M. Tech. courses for officers of the Technical Branch, in institutes like IIT and BHU-IT. · The IAF also has tie-ups with universities like IGNOU to facilitate long-distance learning for officers and airmen. · Study Leave – They are also allowed study leave of up to 24 months extendable up to 28 months. ·

Post-retirement Benefits 1. Pension After retirement from the service, An IAF Officer is entitled to a decent pension which takes care of the needs of the family 2. Insurance Post retirement insurance cover is provided to all Air Force pensioners who have rendered pensionable years of service on payment of minimal premium. The cover given by the Society is upto 72 years of age.

3. Medical The facilities of Ex-servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) such as after retirement at minimum one time contribution, cashless treatment for family for life at ECHS Polyclinics and empaneled premium super specialty group of hospitals like Fortis, Artemis, Apollo, Escorts to name few and many others at almost every city in India with facility of Private Wards. ·All the retired officers and their dependents have access to medical rooms and hospitals equipped with the best of the facilities. Apart from being entitled to the medical facilities, retired Air Force personnel is also authorized for the following benefits: · Coverage under medical insurance for lifetime. ·Grant for Commercial Venture for personnel who have had to leave service due to medical reasons.

NATION

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26

PAGE 10

Congress says PM yet to fulfil poll Kejriwal shown black flags again after landing in Amritsar promise of tackling terror After Modi's first public address after Uri attack, social media users commented 'sowed Modi, reaped Manmohan' New Delhi, Sept 25: Mounting a fresh attack, Congress today said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has failed to spell out the concrete steps to avert an Uri-type attack and that hiselection promises of tackling terrorism with an iron hand have turned out to be a "bluff".

With the Prime Minister yesterday issuing a blunt warning to Pakistan that the Uri attack will not be forgotten and that the sacrifice of 18 soldiers will not go in vain, Congress chief spokesman Randeep Surjewala said Modi's speech failed to convey

Prime Minister Narendra Modi while addressing the BJP rally in Kozhikode, Kerala, says that people of Kerala are seen with respect in the country and the world.

message on the steps to be taken to tackle terror.

"PM Modi's speech failed

to convey message on the concrete steps to tackle terrorism and avert Uri

No talks with those who don't believe in Indian Constitution: BJP's Amit Shah Touching upon the Kashmir unrest and Uri terror attack, the BJP chief asserted, "Kashmir is an unbreakable part of India and no force in the world can separate it from us."

BJP-led government "is willing to discuss all paths to peace but the talks will be held with those who consider themselves Indians‌ No talks will be held with anybody who does not believe in the Constitution," he said.

Acknowledging that the situation in the valley has been worrisome for last few months, Amit Shah said if anybody thinks that Kashmir could be separated from India, then it is nothing but a daydream which will never come true.

Kozhikode, Sept 25: In a clear message to the Kashmiri separatists, BJP President Amit Shah on Sunday said the central government will not have talks with those who do not believe in the Indian Constitution but those who consider themselves Indians. Acknowledging that the situation in the valley has been worrisome for last few months, he said if anybody thinks that Kashmir could be separated from India, then it is nothing but a daydream which will never come true.

In his inaugural address at the party's National Council meeting in Kozhikode, he also invoked the party's 'garib kalyan' agenda, saying the central government

has been dedicated to the development of the poor since Narendra Modi took oath as the Prime Minister. He said the next one year will be observed as 'garib kalyan year'. With the Prime Minister and other senior leaders listening, Shah devoted most of his speech to the saffron party's ideologue Deen Dayal Upadhyay, whose 100th birth anniversary fell on Sunday, and his concepts of 'antyodaya' (uplift of the last man) and integral humanism.

Touching upon the Kashmir unrest and Uri terror attack, the BJP chief asserted, "Kashmir is an unbreakable part of India and no force in the world can separate it from us." The

This is a clear message to separatists who are insisting that talks cannot be held within the Indian Constitution. Referring to the Uri attack, Shah said BJP will not tolerate terrorism and the party and its government stand for "zero tolerance" to it.

Heaping praise on Modi, he compared him with noted freedom fighter Bal Gangadhar Tilak, saying he had infused hope and aspiration among masses with his "Gujarat model" during the 2014 Lok Sabha elections and later with his work in the same way Tilak gave voice to the nation's discontent with the colonial rule with his call for swaraj (selfrule).

BJP governments in 13 states besides the Centre are now working to unlift and empower the poor following the Upadhyay's concept and that is why its dispensations in many states have been re-elected on the basis of performance, he said.(PTI)

25K aspirants turn up to serve as SPOs in Kashmir Srinagar, Sept 25: Defying militant threat and the separatists' call, thousands of youth across Kashmir have turned up to fill 10,000 posts of Special Police Officers (SPOs) despite the ongoing unrest which has claimed 82 lives.

"We have received over 25,000 applications from the aspiring candidates willing to serve as SPOs from across the 10 districts of the Valley," a senior official supervising the recruitment process told PTI here.

On September 22, the Centre had approved the recruitment of an additional 10,000 SPOs with immediate effect to strengthen the Jammu and Kashmir police particularly in view of the unrest in the Valley.

There are already 25,000 SPOs in the state, engaged on a monthly honorarium of Rs 6,000.

The official said the highest number of applications at 8,600 were received from north Kashmir's Kupwara district followed by Budgam (4,000), Baramulla (3,853),

Anantnag (2,400), Ganderbal (1,600), Kulgam (1,258), and Bandipora and Srinagar (1,000 each).

While 800 applications from aspiring candidates were received from Pulwama district, 500 youths applied for the job in Shopian district, he said.

The official said the fitness test of the aspiring candidates has already been conducted in various districts which saw encouraging turnout of the youth ignoring the call of separatist leaders and the militant threats.

Hizbul Mujahideen militant outfit, in the last week of August, had issued a threat, warning the youth against joining police as SPOs. "Whosoever gets appointed as SPO should also be ready to face the consequences," Hizbul Mujahideen commander Riyaz Naik had said in a video circulated through social networking sites on August 30.

Terming the recruitment of SPOs as a "ploy" of the

government, Naik had said, "India wants to weaken our freedom struggle and wants us to fight with each other."

Separatists, on the other hand, had asked the youth to ignore the "enticement aimed at breaking their ranks", alleging that the government by absorbing the youth as SPOs was trying to revive "Ikhwan Militia" of 1990s to crush the "freedom struggle".

"The fresh recruitment drive is nothing but to revive the notorious Ikhwan culture in the state which in mid 90s wiped out almost a whole hatchery of freedom loving people throughout the Valley," hardline Hurriyat chairman Syed Ali Shah Geelani had said in a statement on August 7.

Kashmir Valley is on the boil since July 9 following the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani in an encounter with security forces a day earlier. The widespread clashes left 82 people including two cops dead, and thousands injured. (PTI)

type attacks. Election promises were bluff," Surjewala said in a tweet.

Congress leader Digvijaya Singh said in a tweet, "Even Modi's supporters disappointed with his speech, social media users said, sowed Modi, reaped Manmohan."

Singh said Modi has "destroyed" Pakistan with verbal missiles.

In his first public address after last Sunday's deadly attack by terrorists from across the border, Modi said yesterday in Kozhikode that India will mount an all out offensive

to isolate Pakistan diplomatically to expose its activities in exporting terror, killing of innocent people and spilling blood.

Another Congress leader Manish Tewari raised questions on Modi government's foreign policy over the presence of Russian troops in Pakistan.

"Russian troops are in Pakistan, China building CPEC Iran wants to join CPEC, Americans are in bed with Pak for Af-PAK which world does@narendramodi live in...," Tewari tweeted.(PTI)

Flood alert in Godavari, Krishna basins The districts which may see low to moderate floods are Nizamabad, Adilabad, Karimnagar in Telangana for next three to four days.

New Delhi, Sept 24: A flood alert was on Sunday issued by the Water Resources Ministry in the districts around Godavari and Krishna basins in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. "Respective state governments and district administrations have been advised to take highest level of precautionary measures‌during the next three to seven days," the Ministry said in a statement.

The districts which may see low to moderate floods are Nizamabad, Adilabad, Karimnagar in Telangana for next three to four days. This may further extend to Khammam

district in Telangana and East and West Godavari districts of Andhra Pradesh in the next four to six days, it said.

Beed, Latur and Nanded in Maharashtra; Bidar in Karnataka; Medak, Rangareddy and Nizamabad in Telangana are also likely to get affected with the release of water from small and medium tributaries into Godavari basin. Similarly, the districts around Krishna basin which are likely to get affected are Kalaburagi, Yadgir, Vijayapura, Bagalkote, Raichur of Karnataka, Mahabubnagar of Telangana and Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh.(PTI)

Odisha: Electricity for Maoist-hit block in Koraput Koraput: Situated amid dense forests and bordering Andhra Pradesh, the Red-hit block consists of 150 revenue villages and 181 hamlets.

Koraput, Sept 25:Considered as one of the most backward blocks in the country, Bandhugaon in Koraput district of Odisha now has something to cheer about as the revenue villages and hamlets in the Maoist-hit area can now boast of electricity. "Twenty-four hamlets in the inaccessible areas have been equipped with solar streetlights," said Koraput district Collector (Koraput) Jaya Kumar V. Situated amid dense forests and bordering Andhra Pradesh, the Red-hit block consists of 150 revenue villages and 181 hamlets. Having the work executed in the remote pockets was no easy task as no contractor was willing to do so due to presence of Maoists. A prolonged struggle by the administration made it possible, the Collector said.

On August 4, the administration had launched a

special development drive, Operation Blue Moon, in Bandhugaon and Narayanpatna blocks, through which villagers demand for various projects like piped water supply, electrification of villages, healthcare facilities and 'pucca' roads among others were listed and work on it expedited.

"Without road and electricity we can't develop an area. The administration was committed to electrify the entire block within a specified time frame. I am thankful to the technical staff of Southco and other officials concerned who worked sincerely to ensure that one of the most backwark blocks is electrified," the Collector said.

Since 2014, the Centre has included Bandhugaon block among the 10 most backward tribal blocks of the country under Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana.(PTI)

Amritsar, Sept 25: Heckled by BJP and Congress workers during his last visit to Punjab by train, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal today chose to come by a plane but was again shown black flags by Congress women workers as his convey came out of the airport here.

A large group of Punjab Mahila Congress members led by its president Mamta Dutta protested against the alleged misgovernence by Kejriwal Government in the capital as the Aam Aadmi Party Chief reached here to campaign for the Assembly polls.

After landing at the Sri Guru Ramdas International Airport, Mr. Kejriwal straightway headed to Jalandhar where he was scheduled to attend a gathering of the Aggarwal community.

With placards saying 'Kejriwal Go back', Congress activists alleged his MLAs were involved in outraging the modesty of women and the leader of such persons will not be

Punjab Mahila Congress president Mamta Dutta along with supporters, wave black flags and raise slogans during a protest against Delhi CM and AAP National Convener Arvind Kejriwal near the Airport in Amritsar on Sunday. tolerated in Punjab.

Ms. Dutta also alleged that she was badly "pushed and manhandled" by a male constable during the protest and she sustained injuries on her face.

Other women Congress activists also alleged that they were pushed and shoved by policemen when they attempted to intercept Mr. Kejriwal's cavalcade.

After the incident, Con-

gress activists staged a protest on the middle of road for one hour.

On September 8, Mr. Kejriwal was heckled by BJP, Congress and Akali Dal protesters at railway stations both in New Delhi and Ludhiana when he took a Shatabdi express from Delhi to reach Punjab for a four-day tour to boost the party's campaign in the state where polls are due early next year.(PTI)

PSLV-C35 to inject eight satellites in different orbits In its first multi-orbital launch, India's workhorse PSLV will tomorrow inject eight different satellites, including the country's weather satellite SCATSAT-1 and five from other nations, into two different orbits.

(SSO) after about 17 minutes, the rest will be injected into a lower orbit of 689 km after around two hours.

There will be two re-ignitions of the launch vehicle for this purpose, Kumar said.

Besides SCATSAT-1, the others are PRATHAM and PISAT, two academic satellites from India, ALSAT-1B, ALSAT-2B and ALSAT-1N (all from Algeria) and Pathfinder-1 and NLS-19, from USA and Canada, respectively.

While SCATSAT-1 will be released first into a 730 km Polar Sunsynchronous Orbit (SSO) after about 17 minutes, the rest will be injected into a lower orbit of 689 km after around two hours Chennai, Sept 25: The countdown for the launch of SCATSAT-1 for ocean and weather related studies along with seven other satellites, is progressing satisfactorily, a top ISRO official today said.

India's workhorse Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, PSLV-C35, which will be launched from the First Launch Pad of Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR, Sriharikota at 9.12 AM tomorrow, will carry the 371 kg SCATSAT-1 along with seven other satellites, including from the US and Canada.

The total weight of all the eight satellites onboard PSLV C35 is about 675 kg, ISRO said.

"Countdown has started yesterday and all things are moving satisfactorily," ISRO Chairman AS Kiran Kumar told reporters at the airport here.

PSLV C-35 will be putting the satellites in two different orbits, he added.

While SCATSAT-1 will be released first into a 730 km Polar Sunsynchronous Orbit

The 48-and-a-half-hour countdown for PSLV-C35/ SCATSAT-1 Mission started at 8:42 AM yesterday.

According to ISRO, this is the first mission of PSLV in which it will be launching its payloads into two different orbits.

This will be the 15th flight of PSLV in 'XL' configuration with the use of solid strap-on motors, it added.

The mission objectives of SCATSAT-1 are to help provide weather forecasting services to the user communities through the generation of wind vector products for weather forecasting, cyclone detection and tracking, ISRO said.

SCATSAT-1 is a continuity mission for scatterometer payload carried by the earlier Oceansat-2 satellite, ISRO added.(PTI)

Officers to undergo training on using social media New Delhi, Sept 25: The Delhi government, known for its social media presence with the most active face being Chief MinisterArvind Kejriwal himself, has decided to provide training to its officers on how to use Twitter, Facebook and WhatsApp. Information and Technology Department of the Delhi government has been directed to design the training course on social media which the officers will soon undertake.

A senior government official said the move is intended to provide platform to officers so that they get in touch with ministers on social media frequently.

Kejriwal and his Cabinet colleagues -- Manish Sisodia, PWD, Health Minister Satyendar Jain, Water Minister Kapil Mishra, Labour Minister Gopal Rai and Environment Minister Imran Hussain are most active on social media and they also often express their views through Twitter and Facebook.

The official said earlier this month when a CD surfaced purportedly showing former Women and Child Develop-

Arvind Kejriwal. ment Minister Sandeep Kumar in a compromising position with a woman, Kejriwal had announced his sacking on Twitter.

The issue came to the fore when Deputy CM Manish Sisodia recently held a meeting with the Information Technology Department where he was informed by theofficers that the department at present provides basic computer training -- MS Power Point, MS Excel and Microsoft Word.

"At the meeting, the Deputy CM had observed that the department should also give training on use of social media to officers working with the

Delhi government as part of the existing computer course," an official told media.

The official said that most of government employees do not know how to use WhatsApp. The official also cited an instance when the Deputy CM was recently scheduled to go to an event and asked an officer to send him location of the event on his WhatsApp, he was not able to send the same.

In the past too, Kejriwal had directed his ministers on Twitter on several occasions whenever people complained to him through microblogging site.(PTI)

DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26

LIFE & STYLE

PAGE 11

Farming Guide for Arecanut Plantation The areca nut palm is the source of common chewing nut, popularly known as betel nut or Supari. In India it is extensively used by large sections of people and is very much linked with religious practices. India is the largest producer of areca nut and at the same time largest consumer also.Major states cultivating this crop are Karnataka (40%), Kerala (25%), Assam (20%), Tamil Nadu, Meghalaya and West Bengal.

Climate The cultivation of arecanut is mostly confined to 28º north and south of the equator. It grows well within the temperature range of 14ºC and 36ºC and is adversely affected by temperatures below 10ºC and above 40ºC. Extremes of temperature and wide diurnal variations are not conducive for the healthy growth of the palms. Arecanut can be grown in areas receiving annual rainfall of 750 mm in Maidan parts of Karnataka to 4,500 mm in Malnadareas of Karnataka.

In areas where there is prolonged dry spell, the palms are irrigated. Due to its susceptibility to low temperature, a good crop of arecanut cannot be obtained at an altitude of more than 1000 m MSL. Soil The largest area under the crop is found in gravelly laterite soils of red clay type.

It can also be grown on fertile clay loam soils. Sticky clay, sandy, alluvial, brack-

ish and calcareous soils are not suitable for arecanut cultivation.

Varieties Swarnamangala (VTL1m2) Regular bearer, consistent yielder with homogenous population Trees are semi tall to tall, stem sturdy with shorter internodes Having partially drooping crown with well placed bunches Average no. of bunches/

palm/year - 3.90 Color of ripe nuts - Orange to deep yellow Shape of ripe nuts - Oblong to round and bold Bearing - By 4th year Potential yield (kg chali/ palm/year) - 6.28 Average yield (kg chali/ palm/year) - 3.88 Recovery - High recovery with 26.52% of chali from fresh nut Recommended regions/areas for cultivation- Irrigated areas of Karnataka and Kerala Vittal Areca Hybrid- 1 (VTLAH-1) Hybrid between Hirehalli Dwarf x Sumangala.

Dwarf type with reduced canopy and very sturdy stem.

Super imposition of nodes on the stem gives mechanical support to palms.

Partially drooping crown with well spread leaves.

Moderate yielder but early stabilization in nut yield.

Medium sized oval, yellow to orange nuts.

Average yield (kg chali/ palm/year)- 2.54.

Yield (kg/ha)- 5248.

Recovery over fresh nut26.45 %.

Specific recommendation for seed production- Artificial crossing is suggested between Hirehalli Dwarf and Sumangala for hybrid seed production. Only sprouts/seedlings will be supplied after sorting and selection in the nursery.

Recommended regions/areas for cultivation- Coastal Karnataka and Kerala.

Harvesting and spraying

easy because of the dwarfing nature and lesser cost of cultivation.

Sun scorching and wind damage is minimal due to dwarfing nature.

Raising of Seedlings Arecanut is propagated only by seeds. There are four steps in selection and raising of arecanut seedlings viz.,selection of mother palms, selection of seed nuts, germination and raising the seedlings and selection of seedlings.

Selection of mother palm The criteria for the selection of mother palm are; early bearing, regular bearing habit, large number of leaves on the crown, shorter internodes and high fruit set.

Selection of seed nut Fully ripened nuts having weight of above 35 g should be selected. The nuts selected should float vertically with calyx-end point-

ing upwards when allowed to float on water. These nuts produce the seedlings of greater vigour.

Primary and secondary nurseries For obtaining good germination, the seed nuts should be sown as whole fruits.

The nuts should be sown immediately after the harvest in soil or sand and watered daily to get early and good germination. The nuts should be sown at 15 cm distance in vertical position with calyx end just covered.

The beds may be mulched lightly using areca leaf or paddy straw.

After six months in primary nursery, the seedlings are to be transplanted to secondary nursery beds of 150 cm width, 15 cm height and convenient length. A spacing of 30 cm between the seedlings is considered to be optimum for a growth period of one year in the nursery. Polythene bags (25x15cm, 150 gauge) filled with potting mixture (top soil : FYM : sand = 7:3:2) can also be used to raise secondary nursery.

Sprouts of 3 months old should be used. The secondary nursery should be given a basal dose of decomposed farm yard manure@ 5 tonnes per ha.

Areca sprouts and seedlings are very delicate and do not withstand exposure to direct sunlight. Hence, proper shade should be provided to the nursery.

The nursery should be watered regularly in the summer and proper drainage should be provided in rainy

season. The nursery should be kept clean by periodical weeding.

places with different spacing have revealed that a spacing of 2.7 m X 2.7 m is optimum for arecanut.

Depth of planting In well-drained soils and in the fields where proper drainage can be provided, deep planting is preferred.

Deeper planting provides a firm anchorage and larger volume of space for root development. In areas where water table is high, shallow planting is preferred. Thus in welldrained soils, planting at a depth of 90 cm is recommended and in heavy soils planting at a depth of 60 cm is recommended.

Season of planting In areas where South-West monsoon is severe, planting in the month of SeptemberOctober is recommended.

In other areas planting can also be done in the months of May-June.

Drainage For better growth and development of the plants proper drainage is essential.

The number of drainage channels depend upon the soil type. In light soils the number of channels may be less and in heavy soils the channels should be dug in each row for proper draining of the excess water. The channels should be at least 15 – 30 cm deeper than the depth at which the seedlings are planted.

Shading The palms are highly susceptible for sun scorching.

The seedlings should be given protection against the direct exposure to sun. This may be done either covering the plants with areca or coconut leaves or by raising crops like banana in between two rows of arecanut.

Sun scorching is mostly seen during October – January. During this period even the stems of young palms have to be protected. For this a quick growing shade

izers are applied in basins around the palm dug to a depth of 15-20 cm and 0.51.0 m radius leaving 20 cm from the base of the palm.

After application, the soil is rolled up and covered with organic matter and soil.

Organic matter recycling On an average, 5.5 to 6.0 tonnes of wastes are available from one ha of areca garden per year. This can be effectively used as organic source of nutrients for areca palms. But direct application of these wastes in the garden will take long time for decomposition and will not meet the nutrient demand of the crop immediately. Hence, these materials can be composted using earthworms effectively and used as organic manure in areca gardens.

To prepare vermicompost, areca wastes are chopped into small pieces of 10 cm and heaped. The heap should be mixed with cow dung slurry @ 10 kg / 100 kg of waste and kept for two weeks with sprinkling water daily. Then the chopped material is arranged in beds of one-meter width and convenient length. Cement tanks or trenches can be used for this purpose. A layer of 10-15 cm waste material is alternated with 2 cm layer of cow dung over which earthworms are released at the rate of 1000 numbers per square meter.

The wastes are converted into fine granular, odourless

purpose of cultivation is to conserve the soil moisture and prevent the hardening of the soil, as the soils are heavy in these areas. In general the cultivation was found to increase the yield by 10-20%. In light soils digging can be done once in two years. But in heavy soils digging has to be done every year. Clean cultivation was found to give better yield. When planting is done on hill slopes, contour planting gave highest yields. Mulching is another operation being followed in the arecanut gardens. This checks evaporation during summer, erosion during rainy seasons and keeps the weeds under check.

Chopped areca leaves, grass, arecanut husk and dry leaves collected from the forests can be used as mulch in areca gardens.

Irrigation Arecanut cannot withstand drought for a long time.

Being a perennial crop, once affected by water stress, it may require twothree years to regain the normal vigour and yield.

The death of palms due to moisture stress is also not uncommon. Irrigation intervals of 5 and 10 days were found superior throughout the season. The quantity of water to be applied is about 200 lit per palm/irrigation.

During the summer, majority of the farmers face scarcity of water and it will be

Selection of seedlings Twelve to eighteen-monthold seedlings are to be selected and transplanted in the main field. Seedlings with maximum number of leaves (five or above), minimum height and maximum girth are to be selected for planting. The selected seedlings should be removed with a ball of earth adhering to the roots for planting.

Selection of site and layout The crop thrives well in humid areas protected well against hot sun and heavy wind. Since the areca palm does not withstand either water logging or drought, the site selected should have proper drainage and adequate source of water for irrigation. Arecanut palm cannot withstand extreme temperature and exposure to direct sun. So the site selected should have protection from southern and western sides. The soil depth and the depth of water table are other two parameters to be considered while selecting the site. The soil should be deep (preferably not less than two meters) and water table should be sufficiently low for better root development. Aligning the rows in north-south direction with a deviation of 35º towards south-west lowers the incidence of sun-scorch.

Spacing This depends on the rooting pattern of the crop along with the fertility and depth of the soil. The studies conducted at different

shown that in the initial stages of areca garden only 75% of the recommended dose of fertilizer is sufficient when the fertilizer was given through drip irrigation. The fertilizer should be split into ten parts and should be applied once in 20 days from November to May. Arecanut based cropping systems Arecanut is cultivated with spacing of 2.7 X 2.7 m provides ample scope for cultivation various annual by biennial and perennial crops in the inter spaces.

Banana, pepper, cocoa, elephant foot yam, citrus, betelvine, pineapple etc. were found suitable for inter/mixed cropping in arecanut. However, it is found that as the age of the garden advances, only few crops can be grown profitably as mixed crop viz., pepper, cocoa, banana, lime and betelvine.

Weed Magement Keep the garden free of weeds and break up surface crust by light forking or digging after cessation of monsoon during October-November. In slopes, prevent soil erosion by terracing.

Sow seeds of green manurecum-cover crops such as Mimosa invisa, Stylosanthes gracilis and Calapagonium muconoides in April-May with the onset of pre-monsoon rains.

Cut and apply them to the palms in September-October.

Harvesting and Yield The pre-bearing age of the palm ranges from 5 to 8 years. Though inflorescence initiation has been observed in every leaf axil, there is absorption of inflorescences to about 5 per cent. The plant is monoecious, producing both male and female flowers on the same tree.

The spadix of a grown-up palm produces on an average, 294 female flowers.

The colour of the fruit during its growth changes from green to different shades of yellow and red during ripening. In some places, tender nuts are mature nuts are harvested. Tender nuts are harvested from July to December and ripe nuts from December to March or from May to July. Three or four plucking are done during the whole season.

plant can be planted on Southern and Western sides of the garden.

Nutrient Requirement Annual application of 100 g N (220 g urea), 40 g P2O5 (200 g rock phosphate) and 140 g K2O (235 g muriate of potash) in addition to 12 kg each of green leaf and compost per palm per year is recommended. The fertilizers are to be applied in two split doses. One third of the fertilizer is applied in May June and two third along with the organics during September-October. Fertil-

vermicompost within 60 days. During this period, the earthworm population is doubled. About 8 kg /palm/ year of vermicompost meets the crop nutrient demand in terms of nitrogen. The two species of earthworms Eudrilus eugeniae and Eisenia foetida can be used.

Cultural operations The cultural operations vary from area to area. In Maland tracts the main purpose of cultivation is to loosen the soil and to rebuild the soil fertility after the heavy rains during monsoon. In Maidan tracts the

difficult to supply the required water to the palms.

To overcome this problem, new irrigation methods were tried which can save water without affecting the yield of arecanut. They are sprinklers and drip irrigation methods. Sprinkler and drip irrigations can save 20 and 44 per cent respectively of water.

Fertigation Application of nutrients through irrigation water is called as fertigation. This procedure can be profitably followed in arecanut. The studies at CPCRI have

YIELD With normal good management practice, an arecanut palm may yield around 300400 nuts / palm / year.

Storage There are 14 insect and mites that can damage the nuts during storage. Hence storing in jute bags soaked in 0.1% Lindane solution is recommended. When nuts are stored in such bags, they remain free from insect infestation for upto six months. Phostoxin tablets @ 800 g / 100 m3 are also effective in controlling stored arecanut pests.

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DIBRUGARH, MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 26

PAGE 12

India declare at 377/5, set NZ 434 runs to win PTI Kanpur, Sep 25: India declared their second innings at 377 for five, forcing the umpires to call for early tea in the the first cricket Test against New Zealand, here today.

India, thus, set a target of 434 runs for New Zealand to win the match and take early lead in the three-Test series.

Rohit Sharma was batting on 68 while Ravindra Jadeja was 50 not out as India played 107.3 overs in their second essay.

For Zealand Mitchell Santner (2/79) and Ish Sodhi (2/99) picked up two wickets apiece.

Brief scores: India 318 and 377 for five in 107.2 overs (Cheteshwar Pujara 78, Murali Vijay 76; Rohit Sharma 68 not out, Ravindra Jadeja 50 not out; Mitchell Santner 2/ 79, Ish Sodhi 2/99)

New Zealand:

Rohit Sharma made an aggressive 68 in the second innings

262 all out in 95.5 overs (Kane Williamson 75, Tom Latham 58; Ravindra Jadeja 5/73, Ravichandran Ashwin 4/ 93).

Tendulkar-backed USPL eyes jump on back of women's wear foray PTI New Delhi, Sep 25: Former Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar-backed fashion line company Universal Sportsbiz is targeting aggressive growth with the launch of its third brand.

The brand, Ms.Taken, is the company's foray into the estimated Rs 19,000 crore women's western wear market and has been designed with Bollywood actress Kirti Sanon.

"USPL is the only homegrown Indian company with significant presence in the multi-billion dollar

Sachin Tendulkar celebrity fashion lines business. Both Imara and

Wrogn have built significant resonance and mind

share with our target customer segments. With Ms.Taken, we will cater to young girls and women, targeting the age bracket 20 to 30 and making fashion effortless for them," said Anjana Reddy, CEO, USPL. USPL had a top line of Rs. 61 crore in the last fiscal.

USPL already has men's wear brand Wrogn with Virat Kohli and women's ethnic wear Imara with another Bollywood actress Shraddha Kapoor in its portfolio of brands.

India get trailer ahead of full show Unhappy Cristiano Ronaldo subbed at U17 World Cup next year as Madrid held by Las Palmas

AFP Madrid, Sept 25 : A substituted Cristiano Ronaldo cut a disconsolate figure as Real Madridconceded a late equaliser to draw 2-2 at Las Palmas on Saturday.

Earlier, Barcelona shrugged off the absence of the injured Lionel Messi to move to within a point of Madrid at the top of the table as Luis Suarez and Neymar were on target in a 5-0 thrashing of Sporting Gijon.

Ronaldo was replaced moments after helping Madrid go 2-1 in front when Karim Benzema slotted home the rebound after the Portuguese's initial effort was saved.

However, he watched on as Sergio Araujo took advantage of some soft Madrid defending to level as the European champions dropped points for the second time in four days.

Madrid boss Zinedine Zidane insisted that, despite a sub-par display, Ronaldo had been replaced to keep him fresh for Tuesday's Champions League trip to Borussia Dortmund.

"We have another game on Tuesday and he has to rest too now and again," Zidane told Spanish TV station Movistar.

"It is obvious he always wants to stay on the field, but I have to think about my players and particularly Cristiano.

"I have to take him off sometimes and tonight we did it."

Stung by a poor first-half performance in a 1-1 draw with Villarreal in midweek

that snapped a 16-game La Liga winning streak, Madrid pressed high from the off and had 17 shots Ronaldo was replaced moments after helping Madrid in a wide open first 45 go 2-1 in front. minutes.

Real made the break"Ronaldo had been replaced to keep him fresh for through just after the half- Champions League," Zidane said. hour mark when Javi Varas made a fine save Ronaldo has now completed the 90 minutes just from Nacho's low effort, once in Madrid's six La Liga games so far. but Marco Asensio followed up to head into an Casilla and Sergio Ramos A fine team goal put the empty net. to slot home the equaliser game beyond Sporting The lead lasted five minutes from time. moments later as Neymar just five minutes, Earlier, Barca over- freed Sergi Roberto down though, as came a difficult open- the right and Rafinha met R a p h a e l ing half hour to hit five his cross with a powerful Varane's poor past 10-man Sport- near-post header. defensive ing.

More goals flowed in the header fell at the Yet, Barca coach Luis final 10 minutes after feet of Tana, Enrique was far from Alberto Lora dived in on who slotted past satisfied with his Roberto to leave his side a the helpless side's display, man light.

K i k o particularly Casilla. early in Paco Alcacer was denied Va r a s the sec- his first Barca goal when denied o n d he smashed the ball off the Ronaldo half. underside of the bar, but mid"It is a Neymar mopped up the way result rebound to make it 3-0. through t h a t Roberto was the provider t h e doesn't once more for the fourth sect e l l as Turan powered home ond t h e his cross at the back post Cristiano Ronaldo half, t r u e four minutes later. but story Denis Suarez then teed up subof the Neymar to sweep home his stitute Benzema was on game -- 5-0 makes it second of the game two hand to turn home the seem easy and simple and minutes from time. loose ball. that couldn't be further Sevilla missed the chance Ronaldo was then re- from the truth," he said. to go level with Madrid at placed by Lucas Vazquez, "We were poor at the start the top as they suffered but didn't acknowledge of the second half, we their first league defeat of Zidane as he sulked off the didn't kill the game off the season, losing 3-1 at field. and Sporting could have Athletic Bilbao.

The three-time World got back into the game." On-loan Manchester City Player of the Year has now One moment of Suarez midfielder Samir Nasri's completed the 90 minutes magic turned the game in first Sevilla goal was in vein just once in Madrid's six Barca's favour as he as Mikel San Jose, Mikel La Liga games so far this raced onto Arda Turan's Balenziaga and Aritz season. through ball and flicked Aduriz's injury time penalty And Ronaldo's mood the ball past the onrush- lifted the Basques up to worsened when Araujo ing Ivan Cuellar before third with a fourth straight bundled his way past slotting into an empty net. win.

HIGHLIGHTS

Jittery Juve focus on Zagreb as Napoli await Benfica AFP Milan, Sep 25: Massimiliano Allegri insists focus is fully on claiming the first points of their Champions League campaign after a cagey 10 win at Palermo on Saturday maintained the early-season doubts hanging over Juventus.

The Italian champions travel to Dinamno Zagreb on Tuesday looking for the win that would get their Group H campaign up and running two weeks after a scoreless draw in Turin against Sevilla.

But, unlike Napoli, who

cruised to a 2-0 win at home to Chievo and saw Marek Hamsik hit a cracking 100th goal for the club days before they welcome Benfica to the San Paolo, Juventus were put through the wringer.

Allegri, who paired Gonzalo Higuain and Mario Mandzukic up front for the first time, saw a flawed performance.

"In technical terms we should have done much better, but we take the three points home with us," Allegri told Sky Sport.

Defender Leonardo

Bonucci was more candid: "In technical terms, we made a lot of mistakes and when you play for Juventus that can't happen.

"Palermo defended well throughout. We have to use this game as a stepping stone to improving."

Asked about the Mandzukic-Higuain pairing, Allegri added: "If you ask me, they did well. It was the first time they played up front together and today I wanted to see how they would fare."

"But now we look to Zagreb, where we want

to win."

Juventus started this season being talked of as possible winners, two years after bing outclassed 3-1

by Barcelona in the Berlin final.

But they have failed to score in the competition so far, and Allegri added: "We need to start scoring. Against Sevilla we played well but that's in the past and now we have Dinamo."

Allegri rested Dybala in place of Mandzukic, a choice that almost paid dividends when the Croatia international came close on several occasions.

India’s U16 squad produced a good display in the AFC Championship to beat Saudi Arabia but lost to Iran 3-0.

New Delhi, Sept 25 : A feeble 1000-odd spectators in a massive 19,000-seater Fatorda Stadium in Goa didn’t say much for the home support. India played United Arab Emirates in their opening game of the U-16 AFC Championship in a rather vacant setting. For the next game though, 4,137 showed up.

And then a greater 5,892 came for the match against Iran.

Yet, the tale of numbers doesn’t only speak of an audience coming into the stadium to support the home team. India was slowly recognising and warming up to the players that will be the first from the country to compete in a football World Cup of any age group at the U-17 event next year.

Just like the crowd, India’s opponents at the continental

championships knew nothing of the team before the event started. UAE’s coach Abdelmajeed Ibrahim Mohamed Alnemer admitted that he didn’t have any knowledge about the Indian team’s style of play. He would find out a day later. For the most part, head coach Nicolai Adam has set up a shrewd 4-5-1 formation for the team with the highly rated

forward Aman Chetri acting as the lone striker. On the wings there was plenty of pace in the form of Aniket Jadhav and dead-ball specialist Sanjeev Stalin – who was the first Indian to score at the ongoing tournament.

Then there is the versatility of the speedy Boris Singh Thangjam, who can play as wing-back and on the attacking flanks as well, as he did in each of India’s three league matches. The 16-year-old also has the tendency of making a few inbound runs, both with and without the ball. It was such runs that enabled him to slot home an Aniket cross against UAE, and set up Chetri’s goal against Saudi Arabia.

Up front though, the Guwahati-born Chetri is supported by Sikkim’s Komal Thatal, who features just behind the striker. Thatal has proven his knack of getting into dangerous positions and making space to provide intelligent passes – as he did in his effort to set up Aniket’s opener in the second game.

Umar Akmal returns to Japan to host 2026 Pakistan ODI squad Asian Games: Olympic for West Indies series Council of Asia

Umar Akmal was recalled to the T20 squad to face West Indies after being passed over for five months

AFP Karach, Sept 25 : Pakistan on Sunday recalled dashing batsman Umar Akmal to their one-day squad for the upcoming series against West Indies after he was sidelined for 18 months over disciplinary problems.

The 26-year-old played the last of his 111 one-day internationals in March during the 2015 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.

Negative comments about Akmal’s behaviour by former head coach Waqar Younis and ex-manager Intikhab Alam almost derailed his career.

He was recalled to the Twenty20 squad earlier this month after being passed over for five months.

Pakistan lead the current three-match Twenty20 series against the West Indies 2-0, with the final game on Tuesday.

The first One-Day Interna-

tional is in Sharjah on Friday, followed by another at the same venue on October 2 and one in Abu Dhabi on October 5.

They will also play three Tests after the limited-over series.

There were also ODI recalls for batsman Asad Shafiq and pacemen Sohail Khan and Rahat Ali. Shafiq and Khan have not played since last year while Rahat was part of the team on the New Zealand tour in January.

Pakistan lost their last oneday series in England 4-1 and are currently ninth in the one-day rankings.

Squad: Azhar Ali (captain), Sharjeel Khan, Babar Azam, Asad Shafiq, Shoaib Malik, Sarfraz Ahmed, Umar Akmal, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Nawaz, Imad Wasim, Yasir Shah, Rahat Ali, Mohammad Amir, Wahab Riaz, Hasan Ali, Sohail Khan.

AFP Danang, Sept 25 : Japan’s Aichi prefecture and its capital city Nagoya were confirmed as co-hosts of the 2026 Asian Games today, adding yet another major event to the country’s bulging international sports calendar.

The Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) formally endorsed the bid after Aichi Prefecture governor Hideaki Ohumra and Nagoya city mayor Takashi Kawamura presented their joint offering to the OCA General Assembly in Danang, which is currently hosting the fifth Asian Beach Games. The OCA had originally planned to choose the 2026 Asian Games host in 2018 but brought the vote forward to provide some stability to the region’s crammed sporting calendar which includes three Olympic events over the next eight years.

South Korea is already host-

ing the Winter Olympics at Pyeonchang in 2018, while Tokyo hosts the 2020 Summer Olympics before the winter games go to Beijing in 2022.

Held every four years, the 2018 Asian Games have already been awarded to the Indonesian cities of Jakarta and Palembang while the 2022 edition will be held in the Chinese city of Hangzhou.

Tokyo is also hosting the next Olympic games in 2020 while Japan will stage the Rugby World Cup in 2019, the Asian Winter Games in 2017 and the world swimming championships in 2021.

Japan has hosted the Asian Games twice before, at Tokyo in 1958 and Hiroshima in 1994, and the awarding of the 20th edition in 2026 is the latest in a series of major sporting events heading to the country over the next decade.

The OCA had originally planned to choose the 2026 Asian Games host in 2018

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