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Vol. II

KALAGURU ARTIST FOUNDATION HANDS OVER AN AMOUNT OF RS. 35000 TO RENOWNED ARTIST BOLAI UJA

P2

Issue 156

Dibrugarh, Sunday, December 25, 2016

Following the lead of their National Vice-President Rahul Gandhi’s charges of corruption against Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the state Congress Seva Dal Chief Organiser, Kipa Kaha fired salvos on the Country’s premier saying ‘the PM should come clean on the allegation either by refuting the charges with evidence or explain the nation.’

In a press conference held at Arunachal Press Club, Kaha while reiterating on the

ET CAPSULES

CM Sonowal extends Christmas greetings ET Correspondent Guwahati, Dec 24: Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal has extended warm greetings to the Christian community of the state on the occasion of holy Christmas.In his greetings Sonowal said that through celebration of Christmas we pledge to love humanity and seek blessings of the almighty for harmony and peaceful co-existence in society.

“Religion teaches us to show respect, faith and compassion to all animate and in-animate beings, it is through service above self and commitment towards society that positive change can stimulate our life,” Sonowal added. “It is the religion of humanity that we all must propagate to build a happy and peaceful world,” Sonowal further added.

The Chief Minister also underlined the importance of positive values and the need to cultivate them for human peace and progress in his message and commented that positive change can happen only through harmony and we all should rise above self and work for humanity.

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An equal music, a beautiful society P6

‘PM should come clean on the allegation either by refuting the charges with evidence or explain the nation,’ affirms Congress Seva Dal Chief Organiser A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Dec 24

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allegations of his National Vice-President against PM Modi, alleged that the incumbent PM was paid a total of Rs 40.1 Crores of unaccounted money during his time as the Gujarat Chief Minister on nine separate occasions between 30th October, 2013 and 22nd February, 2014.

Accordingly, raising concerns as to why there has been no inquiry in the matter so far, Kaha demanded that the Prime Minister should come clean on the matter by by initiating a serious inquiry ‘If he is serious about restoring the nation’s faith in his leadership.’

The revelations, as according to the Congress, came into light through the documents seized by Income tax Department when its officials raided the corporate giants, Sahara group and the Aditya Birla Group.

“The Prime Minister should stop hiding behind his party spokesperson or Ministers and explain the nation directly with regards to the payments made to him.”

In this connection, the Seva Dal Chief Organiser, while terming the BJP as a party with

corrupt leaders and highlighting therein, the recent allegations of corruption charges against Union Minister of State (Home), Kiren Rijiju, also demanded that he (Rijiju) be sacked from his post for a fair investigation.

Also lashing out on the Prime Minister and his partythe BJP, for the demonetisation programme, Kipa Kaha remarked that, “Prime Minister Modi is running the government like a dictator and the evidence of the same has been amply visible in his sudden announcement of demonetising the Rs 500 and

1000 old currency notes without any proper plan.”

“The flip-flops and the varying and conflicting statements made by himself (PM), his Finance Minister and also the RBI, in matters of implementations and related regulations, only highlights of the lack of clarity on the PM’s part and all that at the cost of common man’s aspirations,” Kaha noted.

Also alleging that the PM is reluctant to participate in the parliamentary, Kaha further stated that, “Modi has no respect for Parliamentary dignity, its norms and traditions.”

PAGE 9

Pages- 12

Protest Rally held at Haflong

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Parliamentary Secretary Education Felix on a weeklong tour to Kurung Kumey District to assess practical realties from ground zero ET Bureau: Itanagar, Dec 24 “A holistic development vision plan has to be evolved to ensure all round development of the state,” said Government Spokesperson and Parliamentary Secretary Education Bamang Felix while addressing a mammoth gathering at Phassang circle recently. Felix was on a weeklong tour of Kurung Kumey District starting from December 15 last to gather first hand know how of the developmental needs of the district besides taking stock of the ongoing CSS and State sponsored programmes.

While admitting that due to polarization of politics in the recent past resulting in the developmental activities taking back stage, Felix revealed that the present government headed by young and energetic leader Pema Khandu is stable and is strongly committed for all round development of the state.

He further added that CM believes in teamwork and therefore has called for Team Arunachal Spirit to be maintained and followed. He called upon the masses to join hands with the government and be partners to development.

“True to Chief Minister PemaKhandu’scommitment to usher in all round development

of the state, 19thNyapin Assembly Constituency has received almost 200 crores package which includes PMGSY, RIDF, SIDF, SDC, NEC, NLCPR etc. which is first time in the history of the constituency”, revealed Felix.

He exhorted the accompanying district head of offices to bring realistic development by making judicious use of the development funds. He clearly indicated that no misuse of development fund by executing agencies, officers or contractors would be tolerated.

He hinted for stringent action against those found guilty of playing with public funds.

Contd. on Page 3

Apex Chakma Students’ 2 hardcore militant apprehended Body conducts Day-long Career Counselling program active caders of NSCN (K) were apprehended. The UGs tried to terrorize local populace by opening fire in the air. One 9 mm Pistol along with magazine, 4 live rounds, a fired case and extortion notes were also recovered.

Pranjal Bhuyan Jairampur, Dec 24

ET Bureau: Bordumsa, Dec 24

The Arunachal Pradesh Chakma Students Union (APCSU), apex students’ body of the Chakma students organized a day-long career counseling program at Government Secondary School, Bijoypur under Bordumsa Circle in Changlang district of Arunachal Pradesh on 24 December 2016.

“The day-long career counseling program focused on importance of higher education and career prospect for various courses such as law, business etc, sharing of important tips for upcoming boards exams for secondary/

higher secondary level, career prospect in various disciplines/ streams to help them make the right choice, etc,” the press statement mentioned.

It also stressed on certain factors such as perception, attitude, learning etc that need to be addressed before selection and pursuance of a particular career. Information has been shared about educational institutes/colleges for the benefits of the students completing school education.

The day-long event was attended by over 300 school students, college students, teachers, parents/guardians, social workers and public leaders.

The APCSU team was led by Supon Chakma (General

Secretary), Amit Babu Chakma (Education Secretary), Nunez Kumar Chakma (Asstt.

General Secretary), Bipin Roshan Chakma (Organising Secretary), Santosh Chakma (Game & Sport Secretary), Sunil Kumar Chakma (Asstt.

Legal Secretary), Dilip Chakma (President, APCSU Unit, Margherita), Shantidhan Chakma (EM, APCSU Tinsukia Unit), Priyanka Chakma, Buddha Joy Chakma and Jasmine Chakma.

It may be noted that APCSU is scheduled to conduct a series of career counselling programs in the next few days in places such as Diyun, Miao and Kharsang. The upcoming program at Diyun will be organised jointly by the Indian Army and APCSU.

On 23 Dec 2016 on own specific inputs about presence of armed UG cadres in general area Khamkhai, Police Station Nampong, an operation was launched by troops of Jairampur Battalion Assam Rifles during which two

The apprehended NSCN (K) cadres.

The cadres were actively involved in extortion from traders in Nampong area. It

is also revealed that SS Corporal.

Rangtang Mungrey was trained in NSCN (K) camp across the border in Myanmmar for 10 months and was trained in all small arms and sophisticated weapons. The hardcore UG was recruited in 2011 and SS Pvt Roshon Rai was recruited this year in the banned organization.

Office of the Education and Cultural Development Society welcomes Union Science & Technology Minister’s announcement ET Bureau KIMIN, Dec 24 The Education and Cultural Development Society (ECDS) chairman, Nabam Akin Hina welcomed the announcement made by Union Minister for Science & Technology and Earth Science, Dr. Harsh Vardhan on Friday. The Union Minister announced that an

amount Rs. 150 to 200 crores will be made available on interest to the state by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), PST, Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and Emeritus Scientist (ES) for a period of five years while laying the foundation stone of Centre for Bio Resources and Sustainable Development funded by centre

under Kimin Sub-Division, Papum Pare, the Minister disclosed that 50 Biotech Laboratories in Senior Secondary Schools will be established under Department of Biotechnology schemeBiotech Labs in Senior Secondary Schools (BliSS ) to promote practical exposure.

Contd. on Page 3

National Integration Tour ET Correspondent Dinjan Dec 24

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The process of selection begun four months back. with an aim to select the best brains among the students. We had

asked all the schools to nominate students who are willing to take part.

Subsequently all the students appeared for the interview and further screening, out of which best minds were selected.

Students who will take part

in the program are from remote and all sections of the society, yet form a crème among Assamese students.

The students will be meeting the President of India, Mr. Mukherjee and Chief Minister of Assam. The organizers

inform that the tour is structured in a manner to cover various locations of historical and cultural importance in Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and Guwahati.

Contd. on Page 4

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Meritorious students of Assam studying in remote corners of the state will head for celebrated national integration tour (NIT) organised by Dao Army Division. This seasonal Sadbhavana program will take students to important modern cities and historical places. The main motive of the program was to inculcate a sense of togetherness between people of Assam and Army. The tour was planned in way to offer exposure to varied culture and diversity of the country.

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25

P2 Aries Forget about work for a change and focus instead on your love life!

This is one area that can really use some attention. There's no sense waiting for your partner to do it.

It's up to you. Why not book a romantic weekend? It will do wonders for your relationship and add spark just by anticipating the fun you will have. Your commitment should mean more than your independence.

Taurus You greet the day energized!

Your confidence is at an alltime high because of recent events. You have every reason to be proud of what you've accomplished, especially at work. But your love life could benefit from the same level of commitment. Why not be proactive? Arrange a romantic evening for you and your partner.

What a difference a few hours can make in your relationship!

Gemini You have strong humanitarian instincts, Gemini. You think of your fellow humans more than most. This, combined with your intuition and empathy, makes you well suited for the healing professions. If you've felt a bit disgruntled at work lately, it may be that you're in the wrong career. Consider training as a counselor or therapist. You would be good at it and help a lot of people.

Cancer You've been more thoughtful lately and more true to yourself. This is due to your recent introspection. You really can change your life. All it takes is time and commitment. You've made great progress in your development. Continue on this path and you will wind up in a much better place.

Keep your eye on the goal, but don't be so focused that you forget to enjoy the journey.

Leo You're feeling confident and more comfortable in your own skin than you have in a long time, Leo. You're so accomplished, why are you the last one to acknowledge it? Try to look up from your desk long enough to socialize with friends and loved ones. You've been so focused on work that your relationships may have suffered a bit. Spend some quality time with those you care about.

Virgo It's time to loosen up, Virgo. The planetary aspects bring a new cycle of tolerance and understanding your way. You could use a bit of both. Take baby steps as you introduce the kinder, gentler you to your friends and co-workers. They won't accept a rapid transformation, but they won't mind gradual changes.

Listen more and speak less. This can make a big difference in a relationship.

Libra

Remember all those resolutions you made in the past? It's time to recommit to them. All signs indicate that you need to take better care of yourself. You've been so busy working that exercising has begun to feel like a luxury you can't afford. Actually, exercise and proper nutrition are luxuries you can't afford to ignore. You're burning the candle at both ends. Stop before you burn out completely!

Scorpio This is an auspicious time for you, Scorpio. It gives you the energy and enthusiasm to make the necessary changes in your life. There is a lot of work to do, but you're up to it! First focus on your relationships. Your loved ones don't care about your professional successes. They want (and perhaps need) to spend more time with you. Do what you can to bring your life more into balance.

OIL Duliajan inaugurates CSR project " Augmentation of Agriculture through Effective Resource Utilisation with participatory Approach” ET Correspondent Duliajan, 24th December: Under its CSR initiative, Oil India Limited with technical support from Assam Agricultural University (AAU), Jorhat inaugurated a CSR project under Oil India Rural Development Society (OIRDS) “Augmentation of Agriculture through Effective Resource Utilisation with participatory Approach”. The inauguration ceremony of the project on 24th December 2016 was graced by Deepak Bhuyan, Circle Officer, Chabua Revenue Circle; M C Nihalani, GM (R&D) & President OIRDS; D K Das, GM (CSR) & VicePresident OIRDS; D K Bhuyan, DGM (PR); Dr M Saikia, Principal Scientist, AAU; Dr N Borah, Professor, AAU; Dr B K Saud, Principal Scientist, AAU and other seniors officials from OIL and AAU at Purbajyoti Academy

Junior College premises at Chabua, Hatkhula area, District Dibrugarh.

OIL has initiated this three year program at a total project cost of Rs 164,36,163.00 (Rupees One hundred Sixty Four lakh Thirty Six thousand and One hundred Sixty Three only) with the objective to facilitate agriculture-centric livelihood and economic empowerment options for rural people in opera-

Capricorn

Initiated by OIRDS, the project will be executed via large scale demon-

stration, training and other necessary extension interventions including hands on training. The selected beneficiaries from OIL’s operational areas of Dibrugarh and Tinsukia shall be provided custom designed training on the selected technologies in the first phase of the project. Altogether 167 (One hundred sixty seven) number of beneficiaries will directly take part in the project

Ahom Sena Margherita Sub Division Committee formed Mithun Baruah Margherita, DEC 24: Ahom Sena Margherita Sub Division Committee was today formed at Office Line Club Tipong where youths from Margherita,Ledo and Tipong were present.The meeting was presided by

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Sailen Gogoi Publicity Secretary of Ahom Sena Central Committee and Biplob Gogoi President of Kamrup District Committee were present.

Ahom Sena Margherita Sub Division Committee was

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and they are distributed in six villages of Dibrugarh and Tinsukia district of Assam namely Kordoiguri (Khowang area), Amguri Nepali Gaon (Tingrai area), Genichuk, Rohmoria, Hathkhola in greater Chabua area.

OIRDS’ principle objective is to promote, undertake, carry out, sponsor, assist or aid directly, any activity for the promotion and growth of rural economy and eco-

ET Correspondent Jorhat, Dec 24: A cyclist was trapped by a loaded truck near Haldhibari on the NH37 under Kohora Police Station under Bokakhat Revenue Circle of Golaghat district here today.

The victim identified to be one Lal Singh Ghatowar (35) hailing from Bagori Gunju Basti was trapped under the loaded truck when the Jorhat bound speeding truck bearing registration number AS 01 DD-4953 lost control and skid off NH-37 trapping the victim who was also standing beside the NH-37.

The driver and the handyman of the truck fled from the scene but later Kohora police seized the truck.

Kalaguru Artist Foundation hands over an amount of Rs. 35000 to renowned artist Bolai Uja

formed where Babul Likson as President and Ranjay Buragohain as Secretary with 51 members Committee.Sailen Gogoi in his inaugural speech said that Margherita Region has many burning problems and Ahom Sena shall fight for it.

WWF compensates people who incurred losses due to cattletiger conflicts BIJOY SHANKAR HANDIQUE JORHAT, DEC 24: “World Wildlife Fund (WWF) paid compensation to 12 persons who had lost their cattle who came in conflicts with tigers in the year 2016 in the adjacent areas around Kaziranga National Park (KNP),” said Dr. Pranab Jyoti Borah of WWF here today.

Dr. Borah said these 12 persons lost 27 cattle and buffaloes that fell prey to the royal Bengal tigers at Kaziranga National Park, so accordingly an amount of Rs 67, 0500 was paid in cash on compensation ground. Several members from WWF based at Kaziranga were present during the occasion, namely Pallabi Chakraborty, Jayanta Deka, Br. Pranab Jyoti Borah (all three from WWF) while Dhoronidhor Borah is the KNP official to be present.

Sagittarius You have tremendous creativity inside you, Sagittarius.

Have you begun to use some of it? This creative cycle will last for the next month or so.

Don't let it pass without taking advantage of it. Use the other side of your brain for a change. Take up sketching, painting, or fiction writing. What you do is less important than doing something. The simple act of creation unlocks the brain.

tional areas of OIL. While developing economic activity spreading linkage model among the farmers, the project through workshops and training will educate farmers about conservation of resources for escalating farm income and build capacities in different aspect of modern agriculture.

nomic development and welfare of the masses from rural areas of OIL operational areas. Oil India Limited, the founder promoter of the society envisions equipping the rural societies with technological advancements. The activities of the Society have been running under the guidance of an executive committee constituted of Senior Officers of Oil India Limited, Agriculture experts and prominent citizens of Duliajan having interest in the field of agriculture. Revolutionizing the rural economies, OIRDS aims at sustainable growth pattern by the best possible utilization of the available resources, generating avenues for effective employment nurturing the existing skills of people by providing knowledge of science and technology, financial aid and other essential know-how.

One trap by speeding truck at Haldhibari

“WWF has been paying compensation to cases of tiger conflict since it was declared in the year 2006 and in the year 2016 alone a total of 27 cattle and buffaloes were killed by royal Bengal tiger at Kameri Chapori area under Agoratoli Range of Kaziranga National Park,” said WWF sources here.

ET Correspondent TEOK, 24 Dec: Wife of the famous artist Jubin Garg, Gargi Saikia Garg handed over a sum of thirty five thousands (35000.00) on behalf of NGO Kalaguru Artist Foundation, Assam to critically poor artist Bolai Uja of Teok Telia gaon of

Jorhat district yesterday evening in a simple function held at Bolai Uja’s own resident at Teok.

Four members from NGO Kalaguru Artist Foundation namely Jayanta Kakati, Diganta Bharati, Samir including Garima Garg were part of the team that Garg

handed over the amount as a solidarity gesture. It is important to be noted that the Kalaguru Aritist Foundation has already helped various poor artist of the state from their own fund.

Bolai Uja and his well wishers thanked the NGO for their kind help.

Toshen Bora inaugurates inaugural Samarendra Rajkumar Veteran Tennis Tournament

Get excited, because this is going to be one great day!

Everything will go your way.

It will seem as if you simply can't lose. At work, team members look to you as the leader. At home, family members express gratitude and affection. You may be tempted to try this luck at the casino, but don't be impulsive. You're already a winner.

You've earned this shining moment.

Aquarius This is a good day for quiet contemplation, Aquarius. You may have worried about finances lately, but there's no longer any need to concern yourself. All signs indicate that your financial fortunes are about to change. You've been working hard and should reap some rewards. Today's aspects suggest that you will. Enjoy your newfound peace of mind, but don't go out and use the credit cards in celebration!

Pisces Pisces, you're bound to enjoy this day! It's full of possibilities and opportunities.

It may begin routinely, but keep your eyes and ears open for hints of change. Your new adventure may come about in a mundane way. You might meet someone in line at the store who becomes a business partner. Or maybe you will meet a romantic interest at the ATM. Adventure is all around. Trust that you will find it!

BIJOY SHANKAR HANDIQUE JORHAT, DEC 24: Veteran footballer cum sports organizer Toshen Bora inaugurated the first Samarendra Rajkumar Veteran Tennis Tournament at the Jorhat Tennis Club here today. After inaugurating the veteran tennis tournament Bora spoke about the role of late Samarendra Rajkumar who was a great sports organizer and then architect by profession to shape up various sports complex in the state of Assam as well as in his home town Jorhat who dedicated his life for the

upliftment of sports activities for the budding talents throughout the state of Assam.

Earlier Raktim Saikia , President of Assam Tennis Association and also the president of Jorhat Tennis Club and who is also the chairman of the organizing committee during his welcome speech address lauded the role of late Samarendra Rajkumar and gave his thankful address to Toshen Bora who attended as the Chief Guest to inaugurate the veteran tennis tournament and also lauded the role of Toshen

Bora who was a great footballer and is the only Assamese footballer to have played in Indian senior football team in last 70s.He said Talilin Aao from Nagaland was the other who participated in Senior Indian Football team in 1948. A total of 300 veterans from the state while two from Bengal are taking part in the Tennis Tournament. The Tennis Tournament kicked off at the Jorhat Tennis Club this morning. Earlier, Toshen Bora the great veteran footballer was introduced to the players after the inaugural ceremony.

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25

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Consumers sensitized on Consumer rights & Grievances on Consumer Awareness Day ET Correspondent Tezu, Dec 24: “Jago Grahak Jago” (Be an Alert Consumer), a comprehensive sensitization on Adulteration, Counterfeiting, Spurious Goods, Overpricing, use of faulty Weights and Expired Products have been enlightened to the consumer of the Lohit district on the occasion of nationwide ‘Consumer Awareness Day’ (CAD) held here today at the Auditorium of Govt.

Hr Sec School, Tezu.

Speaking on this day as chief guest, Dr Mohesh Chai local MLA realized the significance of CAD where various consumer rights and understanding about the standards with respect to the quality in term of material used, labeling, packaging, standardization marks or symbols used on different products are known. “We should always

alert during marketing or filling patrol and expiry date of LPG cylinder where we are mostly duped or cheated by the unscrupulous shopkeepers or businessman.

Especially the student need to discern and vigil much about consumer rights & grievances and educate parents, relatives and neighbor”, he advises. The MLA further asked the Dept. of Legal Metrology & Consumer Affair to disseminate consumer rights at villages, PRI member and to involve Shopkeepers to educate Weights & Measures/overcharging or alteration prices above the MRP (Max. Retail Prices) are offences.

While suggesting the student to be more alert & vigil, Danish Ashraf DC Lohit who is also the Chairman of the Dist Consumer Redressal Forum said that if any consumer is unsatis-

fied or deceived in quality or deficiency in services can have every right to lodge complaint in the consumer court for financial involvement up to Rs 20 Lakhs. He also expressed hope to the student to be an alert consumer and come with complaint with proper receipt or case memo against any unscrupulous shopkeepers at his office.

Earlier, Vijay Kumar Shrivastava retired Professor IGG College highlighted the aim and object of Consumer Protection Act which was a milestone in the history of Socio-Economic Legislation of the country.

“Consumer most often fooled or cheated in every stratum including mushrooming privatization of education, Private health clinic, digital marketing, while buying goods and in services by dishonest busi-

nessman. If felt misleading or being deceived may lodge complaint to the Dist Consumer Redressal forum which we intentionally ignore encouraging wrong practices. We failed to bring revolution in the consumer rights in Arunachal”, he rues. Soloi Ngadong GS All Arunachal Pradesh Gaonbura Welfare Association extended gratitude the dept for educating about the consumer rights. D Ghosh ACLM also demonstrated on weights & Measure and briefed its enforcements, He also requested everyone to visit the Dept. of Legal Metrology & Consumer Affair to know more about Consumer rights and grievances.

About hundreds of student, including leaned faculties from Govt. Hr Sec School, HoDs and Gaonburas participated in the CAD.

Jamoh greets his people on Christmas and distribute cake A Staff Reporter PASIGHAT, Dec 24: While greeting Christian communities on Christmas, MLA 37th Pasighat West cum Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture, Er. Tatung Jamoh visited almost all the Churches and met the believers under his Assembly Constituency today and distrusted cakes as a part of best wishes to the people during the festive occasion.

While touring around his constituency today, MLA Jamoh accompanied by his party workers like Shiva Tapok, Tasung Saroh, Takin Taying, Tageng Nyitan,

Tajom Saroh, Bimol Lego, Nalo Dupak, Kaling Borang, Tabuk Panyang, Oling

Tatin, Osi Tamin, Rontek Paron etc exchanged good wishes on Christmas and

Free health camp held at Ledum, 110 patients benefitted

A Staff Reporter PASIGHAT, Dec 24: In an attempt to make the health facilities available to rural populace, the District Health Society, Pasighat organized a one day Reproductive and Child Health (RCH) camp along with advocacy meeting cum youth camp and healthy baby show at Ledum village under Bilat Circle, some 32 KM from here on Friday.

While inaugurating the health camp as Chief Guest, local MLA cum Parliamentary Secretary

for Agriculture, Er. Tatung Jamoh appreciated the effort of District Health Society, Pasighat and advised his rural people to avail the best services of specialized doctors made available to their doorstep. Jamoh also gave away the prizes to the winners of Healthy Baby Show competition.

On the part of medical team, Dr. Tatok Gao, DRCHO briefed the gathering about recently launched Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matriva Abhiyan (PMSMA), Janani Shishu Suraksha

Karyakaram (JSSK) and Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) etc and urged the pregnant women to avail the ANC services sincerely which are being provided free of cost at nearby health facilities and get their children immunized without any fear and apprehension. Surgical Specialist, Dr. Bolet Pajing, Medicine Specialist, Dr. Nyaru Kadu, Medical Officer, Dr. Tani Siram and DPM Ipi Doke beside other paramedical staffs were on the job where total of 110 patients got treated with various ailments.

prayed for over all good of the constituency and for communal harmony.

CM Khandu extends Christmas greetings ET Bureau: Itanagar, Dec 24: Chief Minister Pema Khandu has extended warm wishes to the people of Arunachal on the eve of Christmas. In his message, CM said “It is Christmas time and, yet again, it is the time to spread the message of love, harmony and peace.

On Christmas this year let us take time out of our planned celebrations to remember and appreciate them who in their own ways and capacities make our world a better place to live in. While we gather around the Christmas tree with friends and family let us give a thought and pray for those who are alone in this world. This Christmas, let us bring joy to others with an act of kindness. As for us in the Government; this is the

time to reiterate our devotion and dedication to the welfare of our people.

We have to continuously move on towards prosperity and that will be achieved only when every person, every family, every community and every religion of our state prosper. Peace and development go hand in hand.

In fact, both these entities are the two sides of a coin. Without one, the other will never be a reality.

Therefore, this Christmas, it is my fervent wish that every cup may overflow with blessings rich and eternal, and that every path may lead to peace. And we all move ahead, hand-in-hand without a hitch, towards development and a better world. Merry Christmas!,” the message added further.

Governor extends Christmas and Good Governance Day Greetings ET Bureau: Itanagar, Dec 24: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh V. Shanmuganathan has extended his warm greetings to the people of the State on the occasion of Christmas and Good Governance Day. In his message to the people, the Governor expressed his hope that the festivity of Christmas will spread love and care and instil the blessed spirit in every individual and community.

The Governor said that the day is also being observed as Good Governance Day commemorating the birth anniversary of one of India’s finest leaders and former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. He expressed confidence that the day will motivate all, particularly the public representatives and government officials to rise to the expectation of the people through efficient and effective Governance.

Parliamentary Secretary Education Felix on a weeklong tour to Kurung Kumey District to assess practical realties from ground zero Contd. from Page 1

Felix further gave a clarion call to not mix politics with development.

The Government Spokesperson called upon the district officers to remain in their respective posting place. Erring officers or officials would be taken to task according to the laid down rules of the government, he warned.

According top priority to social sectors like health and education, Felix said that teachers and doctors have prime role to play in far-flung inaccessible areas. In order to make sure that the students and patients in those areas have access to good education and good health services, Felix called for their dedicated and selfless service.

Parliamentary Secretary Sports and Youth Affairs, NyamarKarbak, who had accompanied Felix during the tour informed that the State Government has been laying special emphasis on

sports. Various sports infrastructure for numerous disciplines are being developed in the state to facilitate budding sportspersons to take up sports as profession and bring laurels to the state and the country, he further disclosed.

Felix who had started his tour from Longsa under Phassang circle laid foundation stone of PWD Circuit house at Longsa and at Langrh. At Nyapin, Felix laid the foundation stone for establishment of T T Government Degree College in the permanent site, while Nyamarinaugurated aBadminton indoor hall.

Felix also laid the foundation stone of primary Health Centre at Hiya.

Parliamentary secretary Home PaniTaram who joined Felix on day five, laid the foundation stone for establishment of RWD Division office at Laying.

Felix distributed barbed wires to farmers and

blanket to all GBs and old age group in Nyapin, Nyobia, Sangram and phassang administrative areas throughout the tour.

Apart from district HODs, Director Sport, TadarAppa, Under Secretary Education, LikhaTeji, Executive members of NyapinNyobia-SangramPhassang Students Union also accompanied Felix during the tour.

In order to encourage people to adopt kitchen garden practice, Felix constituted a sudden search committee to find out people who have been doing kitchen gardening.

Accordingly, a teacher namely GyamarNiaw bagged the award which was given away during the public meeting at Nyapin.

Similar process was adopted to facilitate persons/households who maintained cleanliness.

BamangTapang a villager from Langrh was adjudged the winner for cleanliness who was accordingly awarded by Felix.

Office of the Education and Cultural Development Society welcomes Union Science & Technology Minister’s announcement Contd. from Page 1

Five centres of excellence for Biotechnology will also be established in the state of state. Moreover, Society lauds Chairman, Science and Technology Bamang Mangha for initiative to bring such development packages in kimin circle and Department concerned that support and guide to its chairman. Office of the Education and Cultural Development Society also lauded the leadership of Chairman of Science and

Technology Bamang Mangha for his initiative to bring development packages in Kimin circle and Department concerned. The Society expressed gratitude to the Minister in showing keen interest in the development and promotion and restoration of traditional dyeing as well as setting up of banana fiber extraction and processing and training unit for entrepreneurs.

It may be noted that ECDS had already set up training cum demonstration

centre of banana fiber at Kimin but due in link up with marketing connection to sale out after processing and extraction fiber banana that ECDS is yet to start its units at kimin.

The production of banana fibers in state has very high scope but marketing link is yet to materialize. “ECDS hopes that the state and centre government will give more importance to the entrepreneur ’s developmental project in coming days,” the press release mentioned.

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25

P4

High Court orders Assam govt. SEC to hold KAAC election Sushanta Roy Diphu December 24: The Guwahati High Court yesterday ordered Assam government and the State Election Commission (SEC) to begin process for conducting elections of Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council whose tenure expires on January 13, 2017. Division bench comprising Chief Justice Ajit Singh and Justice Manojit Bhuyan passed the directive after hearing a public interest litigation case filed by Karbi Students Association, Student and Youth Council and individual Bidyasingh Rongpi.

The PIL mentioned that the present term of KAAC would expire on January

13, 2017 and as per para2(6A) of the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution of India, the term of the council members was for a period of five years. The petitioners also lift up their trepidation that although the process of election of new members of the council should have been initiated by now, the state authorities were not taking steps on that direction due to "political consideration". The court, after hearing the case, issued notice to the state council as well as the State Election Commission and directed them to come out with instructions for holding of election to KAAC. The next date of hearing of the case has been fixed on January 4, 2017.

The Court’s order came close to the heel when opposition Congress and the Hills State Demand Committee (HSDC) urged the Assam Governor to hold elections to the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) within January 13, amid strong buzz that Assam government is considering to extend the term of the Council. A joint team of two political parties comprising former MP Dr.Jayanta Rongpi, former MAL Bidyasing Engleng and Member of Autonomous Council Ashok Teron met Governor of Assam Banwarilal Purohit also.

It may be mentioned here that the last coun-

‘Bridge near Mahur may collapse under weight of plying of heavy vehicles,’ says President of N C Hills Indigenous Students’ Forum

ET Correspondent Haflong Dec 24: “Plying of heavy vehicles on weak bridge near Mahur may collapse the bridge resulting to total disruption of road communication between Lumding – HaflongSilchar,” claimed President of N C Hills Indigenous Students’ Forum David Keivom on Thursday. The bridge in question near Mahur was earlier in 2013 collapsed due to plying of heavily loaded vehicles and the people were to suffer a lot for long time. The bridge on the NH 54 E (old) is of

only 9 ton capacity and also in dilapidated condition but vehicles carrying heavy loads to the tune of 25 to 30tonnes which could invariably collapse the bridge in no time, the president of NCHISF said. He also said that they have submitted a memorandum to the CGM, NHAI for construction of concrete bridge but till the day nothing was done in this respect. Expressing serious concern over the lackadaisical and indifferent attitude of the NHAI and the construction companies engaged for the

construction of NH 54 (E) a senior citizen who did not want to be named said ‘it was really matter of serious concern and dismay that the NHAI and the other concerned department never feel it necessary to consider the plight of people who are made to suffer a lot with some lame excuses like soil condition or the other.

The NCHISF said since they are dedicated to raise people voice would continue to fight in democratic way in different way but without causing any hindrances to the people.

cil poll was held on January 4, 2012. The State Election Commission has sought more time to complete the claims and objection arise after the publication of the strike off list which was an unexpected and abrupt move of the district election authority; as the erroneous list published by the authority mostly deleted authentic voters name and now holding hearings throughout east and west Karbi Anglong. Many political parties and organizations viewed the move as a twisted tactic for buying more time to enable time extension for the present executive committee.

Satra Mukti Sangram Samiti Burns Himanta's Effigy ET Correspondent Golaghat, Dec 24: Satra Mukti Sangram Samiti's Furkating Regional Unit today burnt the effigy of Assam Cabinet Minister Himanta Biswa Sharma at Furkating in Golaghat. The students’ organisation raised allegations against the minister to be engaged in big conspiracy against Krishok Mukti Sangram Samiti leader Akhil Gogoi.

Akhil Gogoi who was taking part in a protest programme in Guwahati was again detained by the police. Yesterday also Satra Mukti Sangram Samiti Golaghat District Unit burnt the effigy of Minister Himanta Biswa Sharma in Golaghat.

Christmas Carol Song at Sivasagar . Photo by Neelam Kakoty

Protest Rally held at Haflong ET Correspondent Haflong, Dec 24: Demanding immediate arrest of Prakanta Warisa Member of Autonomous Council (MAC) of Gunjung constituency of N C Hills Autonomous Council, the people of Gunjung took out a protest Rally at Haflong on Saturday. The Rally was participated by good numbers of people from Gunjung Constituency marched from Cultural Institute Hall to the Office of the Deputy Commissioner and submitted a memorandum to the Chief Minister of Assam Sri Sarbananda Sonowal through the Deputy Commissioner, Dima Hasao.

The memorandum signed by the president of Rangmaishadi SHG and others stated that the Gunjung constituency has not seen development under

the leadership of Prakanta Warisa in comparision to other constituency of Dima Hasao because of his nepotism then again one

specific time dusting the eyes upon the highway patrolling agencies and other possible legal impediments.

“The diminishing trend of milch cow is obstructing the flow of sufficient milk supply in the day to day life. This is happening due to encouragement given to cattle smugglers,” alleges Mugdha Jyoti Mahanta the Superintendent of Police Tinsukia. Further talking to The Eastern Today, Mugdha Jyoti Mahanta the Superintendent of Police Tinsukia expressed concern over the unhealthy trend and admitted that a huge networks of cattle smugglers have been operating in the area adding ‘ despite our Naka Check the vehicles laden with cattle infringing the

existing provisions escape our legal grip’.

According to Mahanta, three hundreds cattle are being purchased every week from the Thursday market out of which only eighty cattle are transported legally with valid documents while two hundred and twenty purchased in the name of slaughtering or some other ceremonial affairs are gathered at a chosen destination and transported illegally through DigboiDuliajan Road to the destination without being caught or detected on the Highway. According to sources, hundreds of cattle sold in the market were driven on foot and following a short and safe way sometimes reach Jagun and again lifted to Margherita from where

they were carried illegally to various destinations with high demand. The illegal traders have employed people in various pockets of Bordumsa permanently to promote their business so that huge cattle were collected on the market day and the affairs go on almost daily mode more vigorously.

However, based on local allegations centering round the act of smuggling the cattle in the border area of Bordumsa by the businessmen across the state, the Eastern Today contacted Sowkhatul Islam Bora the proprietor of M/s Bora Livestock who trades on cattle in Bordumsa area legally.

According to Mr Bora who has been an officially certified vendor carrying on the said trade in the

are not happy with Warisa and wanted the intervention of Chief Minister to arrest and punish Warisa as per law.

Nuisence created along the busy NH 38 in the form of mushrooming vegetables vendor and fish market here amidst the Charali Bazar in Digboi narrowing down the road significantly causing traffic congestion obstructing the pedestrians leading to parking nuisance. The footpaths too occupied by fruits vendor and others add to the misery of the people portarying a very unhealthy and unplanned picture of the oil township.

Is Bordumsa the epicenter of cattle smuggling?

Laxman Sharma Digboi, Dec 24: Giving thumbs up to all the existing provisions governing the cattle trade across the State of Assam, the traders trading cattle at Thursday weekly market in a border location of Bordumsa here in Tinsukia District of Upper Assam were reportedly carrying on their business and transporting the consignment illegally through various safe passage thus escaping any legal hammer on the way. According to reliable sources, the businessmen from various locations of the State include Tinsukia District purchase cattle in the said market in the name of slaughtering and illegally dispatching the same on accumulation from different loading and unloading points articulately on a

woman has filed FIR at Haflong Police Station against alleged molestation. Therefore the people of Gunjung constituency

area, he has five vehicles engaged in transporting the cattle from Bordumsa to Dibrugarh via Makum and Tinsukia. Claiming himself of procuring all clearance and possessing valid documents including Gaonbura certificate, transaction papers, Panchayat verification and fitness documents issued by District Veterinary Doctor , Mr Bora told that he carries not more than 12 cattle per vehicle maintain required space for the livestock and other fodder provisions that are mandatory. ‘My business is clean and legal which can be challenged in the court of law, added Mr Bora when asked about the legal validity of his trade. Meanwhile Ranjan Chakraborty, the Deputy Commissioner Tinsukia during interaction with the

Sentinel this evening told that trading on cattle is not illegal but procurement of valid documents including the Panchayat certification of cattle along with its descriptions, NOC from Veterinary doctor and without contravening to the existing norms of ‘cruelty to animals ‘, the livestock can be traded and transported. Nevertheless, the selling and buying of cattle particularly the milch cow that too in huge quantity in and around Bordumsa have been a matter of concern for those section of people who worship the animal beside the general people depending on them for milk –an essential daily edible that might cease soon if the business goes on unregulated and unchecked as the present trend exhibits.

National Integration Tour Contd. from Page 1

“I am very excited to be part of the tour. I never imagined in my life that I would get a chance to meet the President. It will also be the first time, I get to see these historical places like Amber palace in Jaipur and many other locations. I have also received quality merchandise, to enable comfortable travel,” Rupam Sonowal, Student of 11th class, from Naharkatiya College.

Teachers who are part of the program feel that the NIT activity should be more frequent, as it will lead to more exposure and better awareness among the students in Assam.

“We are very happy that students got to avail this chance. We hope that more such opportunities come in their way. At this young age they are not only going to meet top leaders but they are going to visit many historical monuments of this vast country in a small span of duration. It is going to be once in a life time chance and big eye opener,” said Tikendrajt Saikia, School teacher.

The NIT is attended by 18 students and two teachers, along with four security personnel including an officer from the Dao Army Division as part of Operation Sadhbavana.

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25

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NORTHEAST

Manipur civil UNC blockade: Army Chief Dalbir Singh society call for reviews security situation in Manipur ending economic blockade Imphal (Manipur)[India], Dec. 24 (ANI):Taking serious note of the restive situation unfolding in the Manipur due to the United Naga Council’s (UNC) indefinite economic blockade, a joint meeting of several civil society organisations based in the hill districts and valley districts of the state was held.

Keishampat Leimajam Leikai and marched towards the chief minister’s office to submit a memorandum. The rally was stopped by a team of police personnel at Nityaipat Chuthek from where a few selected representatives were taken to the chief minister’s office for submission of the memorandum.

The joint meeting, held at the Lamphelpat office of United Committee Manipur (UCM) on Thursday, was attended by representatives of 26 different CSOs met and formed a forum which has been christened Joint Forum for Peace (JFP).

During the meeting, a number of resolutions were adopted unanimously. The first resolution said that the forum would appeal to all concerned to lift the economic blockade and the counter economic blockade in view of the extreme misery endured by all sections of people and the volatile situation unfolding in the state on account of the economic blockade.

Meanwhile UCM president Elangbam Johnson, who is also the convenor of the Joint Forum for Peace, has rejected a wild allegation made by the UNC. Representative of civil society organisations held a meeting at Keishampat Leimajam Leikai Community Hall, and deliberated at length on the untold suffering being endured by the people of Manipur on account of the indefinite economic blockade.

After the public meeting rally was taken out from the

The central government and the state government must put in all efforts to resolve the issue of economic blockade at the earliest, reads the second resolution.

The meeting also agreed that all CSOs of both the hills and valley should work together to resolve the existing issues and restore normalcy in the state.

Imphal, Dec. 24 (ANI): Chief of Army Staff General Dalbir Singh arrived in Manipur capital Imphal on Saturday to review the security situation in the wake of a blockade imposed by the United Naga Council (UNC).

General Singh will also visit Assam to review the security situation there.

Meanwhile, a curfew from

that central government was late in taking action, saying that it has been asking the state government to clear the blockade since the beginning and offering assistance to it.

“From today onwards, the state government can’t escape from its responsibility. Nobody will be allowed to add to the sufferings of the people. Central government is also not shying away from its responsibility,” he said.

Opposing creation of seven new districts, the United Naga Council has been staging blockade on the National Highways 2 and 37 connecting the landlocked Manipur since November 1 crippling normal for last 52 days.

“The state government has not been able to end the blockade. It must end as soon as possible as law and order is the responsibility of the state government. Nobody will be allowed to take political advantage out of a humanitarian crisis where common people are suffering,” he said at a press conference here.

The BJP-led central government has been nudging the Congress government in Manipur to ensure smooth flow of traffic on the two highways.

Rijiju earlier had a detailed meeting with Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh and senior officials of central and state governments on the crisis and how to resolve it.

He dismissed suggestions

Rijiju said it is the “sovereign duty” of both central and Manipur governments to ensure that law and order is maintained and people don’t have to suffer due to economic blockade by anyone or a group.

“When there is an issue of common people or sovereign duty, there should be no political difference, there is no political colour.

Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju had on Friday visited Manipur to take stock of the situation and asked the state government to step up its efforts in restoring normalcy.

Earlier, expressing concern

SHILLONG: HSPDP has extended support to the People’s Democratic Forum (PDF) coalition led by suspended Congress member and KHADC chief executive member P.N Syiem adding an advantage to PDF that is already backed by KHNAM and UDP. With HSPDP’s support, PDF’s strength has risen to 22 out of the effective number of 29 members in the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council.

In a letter addressed to Syiem, HSPDP said, “The reason for our support is to provide stability to the current executive committee headed by you as the CEM. At the same time, we also urge you to continue to take up issues pertaining to our customs and traditions for the welfare of our indigenous populace.”

Central and state governments must work together,” he said.

The Minister said since law and order is the responsibility of the state government, it has to act and clear the blockade and whatever help is required, the central government will provide.

Assembly elections in the state are due early next year.

Rijiju said 15,000 paramilitary personnel have already placed under the disposal of the Manipur government while 700 more are on their way.

“The state government must deploy these forces wherever required and clear the roads. The forces are under the command of the state government,” he said.

Asked the possibility of UNC being backed by NSCN-IM, Rijiju said no group will be allowed to break ground rules and will be brought to task if anyone tries to do so.

The landlocked state has been experiencing severe hardship in supply of essential items since November 1 after United Naga Council (UNC) imposed an indefinite economic blockade on the two national highways that serve as lifeline for the state. (PTI)

Another woman held in Marvelene’s rape case minor girl for prostitution, and Tarisha were staying in the same building in Demthring.

Police said as per the statement of the minor girl, she

Home Minister Rajnath Singh also asked Nagaland Chief Minister T R Zeliang to ensure there is no distur-

bance in the movement of vehicles passing through his state, as there have been reports of the Naga Students Federation calling for a blockade of vehicles in Nagaland.

In a stern message to Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh, Rajnath said the state is facing an extremely distressing economic situation because of the continuous blockade of

Newly elected MDCs pose with sitting members of the House after the swearing-in programme on Friday. (ST) The letter bears the signature of HSPDP parliamentary party leader Teilinia Thangkhiew, its secretary and newly elected MDC Samlin Malniang and its members B.B Warjri and P.S Syiem.

The CEM said he had ac-

National Highway-2.

The blockade in the state was announced by the UNC after the Manipur Government decided to upgrade the Sadar Hills and Jiribam areas to full-fledged districts. Following the state government’s decision on November 1, UNC militants blocked the ImphalDimapur and the ImphalJiribam highways indefinitely.

It is also learnt that Tarisha accompanied the girl when she was taken to the resort on that fateful day.

The arrested woman will be produced before the court on Saturday.

cepted the letter “with an objective to bring stability” to the executive committee and that the union of the regional parties is driven by the common issues. “PDF is now a combination of regional forces with me as the suspended Congress

member.”

Syiem was quick to add that the stability as mentioned was not for the CEM’s seat but to strengthen the indigenous community as PDF would be in a better position to raise local issues.

“They have understood

that protection of the rights of the people is the common interest. PDF’s strength has now increased to 22 and we expect some more MDCs to join hands with us,” he said and added that the support comes in the wake of the Congress trying to destabilise PDF. The KHADC chief enumerated the issues that would be flagged by PDF. Of these are the boundary issue as mooted by HSPDP leader Ardent Basaiawmoit and the MUDA and municipal issues driven by KHNAM leader Adelbert Nongrum.

“PDF will also carry on the agenda of the common minimum programme along with its partners.”

When asked on vacant posts of executive members, he said, “Three seats are vacant and every individual is qualified.”

Rise in ‘lost and found’ cases in Aizawl ahead of Christmas Aizawl, Dec. 24 (ANI): There has been a rise in ‘lost and found’ cases in Mizoram capital Aizawl.

In comparison to last year, the city has seen an increase in the number of ‘lost and found’ cases this year.

Money lost and found is about only 13.23 percent and not seen is about more than 86.72 percent.

In 2016, the amount of money lost is an estimated Rs. 5,67,410. Money found has been pegged at about Rs. 80,452 and of this, Rs. 68, 592 has been returned to the owners.

Umtru project may be complete

by March 2017 Shillong, Dec 24 : The much-awaited Umtru hydroelectric project is likely to be commissioned in March next year. Minister in charge of Power Sniawbhalang Dhar said on Friday the project has made good progress and is nearing completion.The foundation stone for the 40-MW Umtru project was laid in 2007 by the then Chief Minister D.D Lapang. Once commissioned, the project will add 40 MW to the State’s power pool and it will help in managing the starved power scenario of the state.

7 new MDCs take oath SHILLONG/JOWAI, Dec 24 : The seven newly elected MDCs to KHADC and JHADC were sworn in on Friday.

While six KHADC MDCs were sworn in before District Council Judge S. Kharsyiemlieh, the lone MDC from JHADC, former Council Chief Lamdibok Sumer of the Congress from War East, took oath before JHADC Chairman Arborhima Darnei in the presence of other MDCs and officers.

The new KHADC MDCs are UDP member H.S Shylla and Equator Nongrang from Nongkrem and Mairang, respectively, NCP’s Ricky Shullai from LabanMawprem, HSPDP’s Samlin

Malniang and Blandingstar Warjri from NongspungSohiong and PariongMawthadraishan, respectively, and Congress’s Kimfa Sidney Marbaniang from Rambrai-Jyrngam.

Members of the People’s Democratic Forum (PDF) were present during the swearing-in ceremony. Family members and relatives, party workers of respective political parties witnessed the simple function held in the Council’s conference room.

The by-election was necessitated after the resignation of seven MDCs following the passing of the Prevention of Disqualification (Members of Legislative Assembly of Meghalaya)

(Amendment) Act, 2015, by the State Assembly.

Addressing media persons, Shylla said there are grey areas in the autonomous district rules that need to be examined and stated that some rules need to be amended.

When asked about his stand on uranium mining in the State, he UDP’s Shylla said, “The uranium imbroglio in the state is over. The state government on August 1 has decided to revoke the August 24, 2009, land deal with Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL).”

At the height of contentious uranium issue in the state, it may be recalled that the State Government on August 1, decided to revoke the August 24, 2009, decision of

Security escorts with empty trucks head for Jiribam IMPHAL, Dec 23 : Security escorts along with 500 trucks including empty tankers and LPG carriers have left Imphal for Jiribam in order to safely escort back the 607 stranded trucks carrying essential commodities, petroleum and petroleum products and to bring more supplies to the State.

No more trucks have reached Imphal ever since December 12 when a huge number of trucks carrying essential commodities, petroleum and petroleum based products Shillong, Dec 24 : The city According to police, was used in the residence police on Friday arrested a Mamuni Parveen, who was of Tarisha on a few occa- were escorted safely to the valley. pimp from Demthring who arrested earlier for using the sions. also played an important role in the trafficking of the girl at Marvelene’s Inn. Police arrested the woman identified as Tarisha Mary Kharbamon from her residence in Demthring.

over the long blockade of a highway connecting Manipur, the Home Ministry on Thursday rapped the state government for "failing" to discharge its "constitutional" duties in ensuring smooth flow of traffic on roads despite repeated requests.

HSPDP backs PDF coalition in KHADC

Ibobi govt can’t escape responsibility, must act: Rijiju Imphal, Dec 24 : In a stern message, the Centre today told Manipur government that it can’t escape responsibility for the “humanitarian crisis” arising out of the 52-day economic blockade by a Naga group and must work to end it, while making it clear that nobody will be allowed to take political advantage.

Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju, who is on a day-long visit to Congress-ruled Manipur as a Central emissary, said it is completely unacceptable to have such kinds of blockades in which thousands are suffering and both central and Manipur governments will work together to end it.

Lamlong Bridge to Pangei area has been relaxed from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Christmas in aizawl

empty trucks today are scheduled to bring back the stranded vehicles to Imphal on Sunday, December 25. On the other hand, the empty trucks heading for Jiribam would be escorted by the State security force from Imphal to Nungba and the paramilitary forces will then take over.

Petrol and diesel are no longer available at the pumps except in the black market at sky high prices.

Around 151 oil takers and LPG bullet trucks are amongst the huge number of goods carrying trucks stranded at Jiribam. If the fuel laden The security escorts, trucks reach Imphal by comprising of two com- Sunday, there is a possipanies of CRPF, which bility that most of the oil left for Jiribam with the pumps in the State will

the cabinet, headed by D.D Lapang, to lease out a plot of land measuring 422 hectares in South West Khasi Hills for 30 years to UCIL to carry out pre-mining activities.

Referring to a report by Mining Weekly on July 20, 2015, Shylla said, “As per the report, India has decided to reject new uranium projects in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Meghalaya.

Some of the reasons cited for the unfeasibility are hilly terrain, opposition from the populace and huge expenses.”

one MDC seat in the KHADC still lying vacant, Shylla quoted Rule 6 (1) of the Assam and Meghalaya Autonomous Districts (Constitution of District Council) Rules, 1951, stating that the KHADC should consist of 30 members of whom 29 have been elected on the basis of adult suffrage and one member will be nominated by the Governor.

“The word ‘may’ is not used but the word ‘will’ is mentioned. It all depends on the wisdom of the Governor.”

“The respective Himas need to have their own rules. All He stated that uranium min- the 25 chiefs of the Khasi ing should not be resumed Hills should have their own in the State. act and codification should be done accordingly,” he Replying to a query about said.

YMA stops six fuel trucks to Manipur market

Aizawl, Dec 23 :The Young Mizo Association (YMA) volunteers today intercepted six trucks at open from Monday for a Mizoram-Manipur border few days to supply fuel. village of Ngopa carrying petrol and diesel for sale Even though stocks have on higher rates in dried up and the IOC has Manipur. around 558 tankers (dealer and general trans- President of the YMA’s porters), only 18 IOC Tuiphal Group K trucks comprising of 17 Lianhmingthanga told oil tankers and one LPG PTI they had stopped two bullet truck were heavy trucks, one meamongst the vehicles dium truck and three which left for Jiribam to- pick-up trucks carrying day. As such, the fuel oil from Aizawl to scarcity is not going to end Manipur. any time soon.

Lianhmingthanga said the According to one IOC trucks were carrying 103 official, most of the driv- barrels of oil, mainly totalling around ers are reluctant to un- petrol 23,690 litres. dertake the journey resulting in the low number Mizoram is reeling under of tankers which left for acute scarcity of oil, esJiribam today. pecially petrol, as the They will surely agree to State’s quota of oil was go on the next escorted sold at a higher price by trip, he added. the local filling stations to truck owners who illegally exported it to oil-

starved neighbouring State of Manipur where a litre of petrol costs Rs 300.

Manipur has been facing shortage of essential commodities due to road blockade by the United Naga Council since November 1.

The central committee of the YMA had instructed its units along the road leading to Manipur from Aizawl to keep a close watch on transportation of oil by black marketeers to ensure that Mizoram has sufficient oil supply during Christmas and New Year festivities.

The State Government also took steps to end black marketing of oil which adversely affected the consumers, Secretary for State Food, Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department Dr Franklin Lalthankhuma said. PTI

EDITORIAL P6 An equal music, a beautiful society

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25

Today's quote

“

"To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment."

Ananya Vajpeyi

– Ralph Waldo Emerson

Back to Class X Board exams The excellence of a school education system must be assessed by the creative individuals it produces. That principle can be the only meaningful guide for the Central Board of Secondary Education, as it once again tweaks its testing system to make the Class X Board examination compulsory for all students from 2018. It is wrong to believe that students in the CBSE system are not being assessed with sufficient rigour: the Continuous and Comprehensive Evaluation (CCE) method that it follows is aimed at identifying learning difficulties periodically and instituting remedial measures, rather than raising stress with a make-or-break public examination at the secondary level. This philosophy helps students master various topics and discover their aptitude in the course of a year, eliminating the chances of a single rote-learning test that could produce an aberrant result. The gains of such a system should not be thrown away in the quest to bring about 'uniformity' in the Class X education pattern across the country. If anything, it is learning outcomes and creative brilliance assessed through non-ritualistic aptitude tests that should rate the capacity of an educational board. Such an approach would also encourage teachers to innovate conceptually, rather than drill students to face an examination.

The argument in favour of a compulsory Class X Board examination made by Union Human Resource Development Minister Prakash Javadekar is that its absence discriminates against candidates of State boards. In fact, the Minister announced his intent of returning to a compulsory Board examination well before the CBSE governing body formally announced it. The logic, however, is flawed. Uniformity militates against creative educational methods, and a test that is no more than a straitjacket crushes the initiative of teacher and student. The CBSE would, therefore, do well to avoid homogenisation, and retain sufficient scope for true learning. This can be done by giving the CCE system - which the Board calls a balance between incessant tests and a single annual assessment - equal weightage, even if all students take a Board examination for Class X. As the CBSE puts it, over-dependence on a single examination deprives the learner of motivation and opportunities for reflection on his or her work. It also does not find favour with the National Curriculum Framework 2005 that emphasised greater flexibility for teachers to decide on how to train students in concepts and help them learn at their own pace. What India needs is a school-level assessment method to identify actual learning that would remove barriers to students freely migrating across State boards.

Well spun by Ashwin R. Ashwin has never been one to hide his ambition. When his international career was still young, Ashwin said in an interview that he wanted to dominate the game. There was no hint of braggadocio, just an unnerving earnestness. On Thursday, the realisation of this dream was formally recognised.

Ashwin became the first spinner to win cricket's biggest individual prize, the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy, since the award was instituted 12 years ago. He is just the third bowler, after Dale Steyn and Mitchell Johnson, to be named ICC Cricketer of the Year. He was also adjudged Test Cricketer of the Year, only the second Indian after Rahul Dravid to sweep both awards. Indeed, the voting period - September 14, 2015 to September 20, 2016 - does not fully describe his phenomenal ascent to the top. In that time, he took 48 wickets at 15.39 and made 336 runs at 42 from eight Tests. He has added another 55 wickets (24.12) and 377 runs (37.70) in the eight Tests since. His influence was not limited to one format; in the voting period, Ashwin had 27 T20I wickets in 19 games. By any measure, Ashwin stands alone, an extraordinary comeback after being dropped for the Adelaide Test in early 2015.

Ashwin's success has been instrumental in India becoming the premier Test side this year. There has been a perceptible change in culture and intent. Virat Kohli announced it when he acknowledged that bowlers were "the bosses" in Test cricket. He has backed it up, leading the batting group in shaping contests and empowering his bowlers to win them.

There was a minor storm on social media when Kohli did not make the ICC's Test Team of the Year. But his exclusion was easily explained: his magnificent run with the bat did not coincide completely with the voting period. He certainly stepped up a level against England, lifting his career average from the mid-40s to the high-water mark of 50. The context in which the runs came was more impressive than the volume: every time a game needed seizing or settling, Kohli attended to it. Teams tend to form themselves in the image of their captains - so, perhaps, it was not entirely surprising that India found a hero equal to nearly any task. The experienced cricketers pulled their weight. Those of more recent vintage K.L. Rahul, Jayant Yadav and Karun Nair - appeared to make the transition without missing a beat. The side had to deal with injuries, which did not permit a settled playing eleven. But the momentum was unaffected. India will face stiffer challenges, especially overseas, as it seeks to build a legacy as a worldbeater. For now, 2016 has been a good launch pad.

No aspect of life in India from the exalted heavens of the classical arts to the most mundane pits of bodily waste can escape the totalitarian structure of caste.

A recent event in Delhi brought together two Indian winners of the 2016 Ramon Magsaysay Award, Bezwada Wilson and T.M. Krishna, in a wide-ranging conversation about freedom of expression, nationalism and inequality, issues of pressing concern. Both were outspoken against a growing majoritarianism, and passionate about building an egalitarian and just society through their respective fields. Wilson, 50, national convener of the Safai Karmachari Andolan, is a campaigner against manual scavenging; and Krishna, 40, is a prominent exponent of Carnatic music and a public intellectual.

The two men share a commitment to free speech and equal citizenship, to addressing entrenched forms of exclusion, discrimination and violence based on caste, to democratic rights and the Indian Constitution. They come from absolutely unrelated areas of engagement, and from personal backgrounds that are far apart, but what is remarkable is how they converge in their social activism as well as their shared ability to communicate clearly and forcefully with large audiences. The Magsaysay Award jury was astute indeed in recognising the laudable public spiritedness of both Wilson and Krishna, and their common concern with the problem of caste.

The annihilation of caste Manual scavenging - including the removal, carrying and disposal by hand of human excrement, and the physical cleaning of latrines, sewers and septic

tanks, a task invariably assigned to Dalits (including men, women and children) has been targeted for eradication since Gandhi came back to India a hundred years ago. It was the Mahatma who began to insist, in the face of tremendous resistance, that all his family members and associates, regardless of caste, class and gender, clean toilets themselves. An Act of Parliament in 1993 officially banned the employment of manual scavengers and the construction of dry latrines.

And yet it continues today, perpetuating the most extreme forms of indignity and oppression, causing disease and death, reducing life expectancy, and making the occupation of thousands of Indian citizens a living hell.

Wilson has been campaigning to put an end to this abominable practice for close to thirty years. The turning point for him was around 1990-91, the birth centenary of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar (1891-1956), that brought the life and work of the great Dalit leader back into the mainstream of national consciousness and forced the government of the day to implement the Mandal Commission Report, expanding the scope of affirmative action against caste-based social inequality. How can India proceed with its ambitious economic and political agendas for growth, change and prosperity, Wilson asks, when such an archaic form of caste discrimination, a kind of slavery and a form of torture, continues to exist and to ruin countless Dalit lives?

Krishna comes at caste from the direction of the arts, particularly Carnatic music, for almost a century now the preserve of elite urban Brahmin men - whether as composers, singers, musicians, accompanists or listeners in Chennai and other artistic capitals of southern India. He has been arguing that what is now considered

Carnatic classical music and what is now called Bharatanatyam classical dance were both originally the provenance of women, especially temple dancers and courtesans, and of nonBrahmin "holding communities" like the Isai Vellalars.

These groups were sidelined and their art forms taken over by socially dominant Brahmin practitioners and patrons, who cleansed the music and dance of their vernacular, erotic, demotic and popular character, and reinvented them as classical, religious, refined and urbane. The temple courtyard and the noisy village square gave way to the kutcheri and the sophisticated concert hall as performance spaces, which closed their doors to ordinary people.

In 2015 Krishna announced his decision to stop performing in the December concert season - in the Tamil month of Margazhi - of Chennai, even though he has been the star of this vaunted annual cultural event from a young age. He now organises a new winter-time music festival in the small fishing village of Urur-Olcott Kuppam in Chennai, teaches music and performs free concerts at corporation schools, trains girls and women in Carnatic vocal and instrumental music, and extends the ambit of his pedagogic outreach to tribal, rural and marginalised communities.

He has also expanded the repertoire of music that he himself sings, including modern Hindustani and Bengali forms. Most recently he has made joint appearances with the Jogappas, a transgender community of devotional folk performers, associated with the goddess Yellamma, from northern Karnataka and contiguous parts of the Deccan (Andhra and Maharashtra), unimaginable in the hallowed halls of classical music for the

Carnatic orthodoxy.

Self-purification and selfrespect Krishna and Wilson - together, as a pair - remind one of the late D.R. Nagaraj's insightful formulation of "self-purification" and "self-respect" as the two modalities of a moral resistance to caste, especially untouchability, flowing from Gandhi and Ambedkar, respectively. According to Nagaraj, the caste Hindu and especially the Brahmin self must purify or purge itself of its impulse to exclude or hurt the untouchable, while the Dalit self must assert its intrinsic worth and inalienable dignity even in the face of relentless discrimination.

Krishna, constantly aware of and critical about his own birth, training, conditioning and privilege, has been advocating strenuously that Carnatic music "de-Brahminise" itself, undertake some "social re-engineering" as an act of selfpurification to render itself less unequal and more inclusive. The arts are after all a microcosm of society, reflecting and even amplifying its inequalities. Wilson meanwhile states unequivocally that if the Constitution guarantees the self-respect of Dalits, then an abhorrent demeaning practice like manual scavenging simply cannot be allowed to persist in today's India.

But what is more striking than this obvious dialectic of self-purification and selfrespect, which can be traced back to Gandhian and Ambedkarite stances on caste, is how both Krishna and Wilson in their own ways struggle to actualise what Ambedkar called "social endosmosis". This is the natural flow and exchange of ideas, values, practices, knowledge and energies between and across groups that Ambedkar lamented

could not occur in the rigidly stratified and segregated Hindu social order.

The traditional caste system controls social reproduction through strict endogamy, and places nearly insurmountable taboos on cohabitation, commensality and other forms of conviviality and commerce between different castes.

Ambedkar and 'social endosmosis' Untouchability may have been outlawed through Article 17 of the Indian Constitution, but that is only the most extreme way to keep human beings and fellow citizens apart. In fact, Indians of different castes even today seldom eat together, live together, inter-marry or in other ways participate in each other's life-worlds across the invisible yet impenetrable barriers of caste.

As Krishna has shown, in a manner that is all the more effective for being so blunt, we can't even sing together, an indicator of how little we hear the speech, the pain, the yearnings, the silences of others.

No aspect of life in India from the exalted heavens of the classical arts to the most mundane pits of bodily waste can escape the totalitarian structure of caste: this was Ambedkar's rage a g a i n s t varnaashramadharma, the total society. From music to excreta, everything is segregated, violating the basic principle of equal citizenship. Having Krishna and Wilson come together on a common platform exemplifies what Nagaraj characterised as the necessity for modern Indians to address, simultaneously, "the beauty and the horror" of caste. "My journey began from the question of beauty," Krishna said.

"What is beauty?" For a moment this seems like a strange way to begin think-

ing about the cultural politics of Carnatic music, or indeed any other art form, but it turns out to be an enormously productive line of inquiry. As Wilson points out, an equal society is the most beautiful thing that human beings could make.

Why can't scientists, planners and bureaucrats come up with a way to end forever the scourge of manual scavenging, Wilson demands, not just a moral and political alternative but a technological and policy solution? Krishna's path has been more challenging to interpret as a radical move in the politics of aesthetics.

In systematically educating himself and us about the actual historical origins and forgotten trajectories of Carnatic music; in abandoning the highest prosceniums for unexplored spaces and unexpected audiences; in opening himself to the sounds and rhythms of every kind of community populating the hum and hubbub of India; in learning to listen and unlearning how he was taught to sing, he has indisputably transformed himself as an artiste.

Articulate to a fault, Krishna reflects, writes, lectures and teaches continuously about what he is doing. But even if he were not to talk about it explicitly, any sensitive listener can hear in Krishna's voice as it continues to evolve, over the past couple of years especially, a note of compassion, empathy and sweetness that deepens immeasurably the musical experience for singer and audience alike.

This is not just amazing virtuosity, which he has had from the very beginning. It is, rather, the sound of virtue itself, the profoundly moving melody of an ethical music. Is there only suffering for the Dalit condemned to manual scavenging, Wilson was asked.

"The fight for justice is itself the greatest happiness," he answered.

Love In The Time Of Hook-Up Culture Manjari Singh My friends didn't have nice things to say when I told them I was going to try Tinder. Mine is a small city with a small circle where everybody knows everyone, if not personally, then on Facebook.

They told me that all good men are either married or have moved out of the city. They also told me there are fair chances of bumping into a stalker. I was shocked when a friend said that Tinder reeks of desperation and good girls should only go to matrimonial sites.

I'd been reading a lot of Tinder experiences online and I remember reading about dates turning into either mind-boggling sex, painful one-sided love stories and actual fairy tales, exactly the kind I covet. Of course, there were awry dates, weird conversation and ex-

amples everything going wrong, yet I decided to give it a chance. So one fine morning, I downloaded the app and got started.

Within 30 minutes I had 10 matches, and by then I also knew why my friends had cautioned me about Tindering in Lucknow. Most men assumed that it was sex or the lack of it that got me on the app, especially since I'm a journalist. I also saw a lot of married men and some of them had pictures with wives and kids.

A couple of them even asked me if I was up for a short fling (read extramarital affair) because "Journalists are so openminded!" One man, who turned out to be a friend's friend's husband, had the audacity to ask me why I was on Tinder if not for sex. I was about to give up, when Z texted, and

Testing for gossip In ancient Greece, Socrates was reputed to hold knowledge in high esteem. One day an acquaintance met the great philosopher and said, "Do you know what I just heard about your friend?"

"Hold on a minute", Socrates replied. "Before telling me anything I'd like you to pass a little test. It's called the Triple Filter Test."

"Triple filter?"

"That's right", Socrates continued. "Before you talk to me about my friend, it might be a good idea to take a moment and filter what you're going to say. That's why I call it the triple filter test. The first filter is Truth. Have you made absolutely sure that what you are about to tell me is true?"

within a few minutes I knew he was different from the rest (and the best looking guy I had matched with) and that was another reason why I gave him my phone number. A quick search on Facebook assured me that everything was alright and we soon moved to WhatsApp. I knew the app had already given me the best and I uninstalled it from my phone.

We never had long chats but the short conversations we had were enough to indicate that he was everything that I was not and yet I felt tremendously attracted to him.

We would mostly talk about love, relationships and sex and while he sounded quite advanced in those areas, I was still naïve. I told him clearly that I was not looking for casual sex and he was okay with that.

We talked almost every day. Although he'd make plans, he never made any special efforts to make them work. I didn't know what or whether to think of him at all. What I found really strange was that he would never shy away from asking journalistic favours but had a problem coming to see me.

It was frustrating, but then the heart wants what it wants. He'd ask me to promote his company and I'd do whatever I could, thinking if I helped him, he would also fall for me.

And one fine day we met. It was completely unplanned, yet soul filling.

He just texted me before leaving his office and within 30 minutes, I found him waiting for me outside my house.

He was every inch a gentleman and I loved ev-

"No,",the man said, "Actually I just heard about it and ..."

"All right", said Socrates. "So you don't really know if it's true or not. Now let's try the second filter, the filter of Goodness. Is what you are about to tell me about my friend something good?"

"No, on the contrary."

"So", Socrates continued, "you want to tell me something bad about him, but you're not certain it's true. You may still pass the test though, because there's one filter left: the filter of Usefulness. Is what you want to tell me about my friend going to be useful to me?"

"No, not really."

"Well", concluded Socrates, "if what you want to tell me is neither true nor good nor even useful, why tell it to me at all?"

ery minute. He was definitely more fun in person and I never wanted that evening to end. We spoke of food, Bollywood, work and everything under the sun. He asked a lot of questions about my work and seemed interested in me, or so I thought. I've never been with anyone and I was overwhelmed with all the attention.

Soon the date came to an end and we left the restaurant with awkward goodbyes. I badly wanted him to hold me, but then maybe another time…

We talked for a couple of months and I didn't even realise how my feelings for him got stronger and how texting turned into sexting. I badly wanted to be with him but without making it casual. He, on the other hand, had told me that he wasn't looking for a longterm relationship.

I wanted love, attention,

commitment, dreamy dates and steamy kisses, but all he had to offer was a job in his company!

While Rihanna found love in a hopeless place, I had to make do with a job offer. We eventually stopped talking and I tried Tinder again, but blame it on fate or the city with limited options, I always end up seeing him on the app. And the moment I see him, I uninstall.

I am not completely over him, but now that I look back I realise how wrong it was to look for love on Tinder. He'd tell me he found me hot, cute, a genuine friend and somebody he could rely on, and yet he didn't want to date me. This is something beyond me; as my friend says, "Tinder or no Tinder, it's a sin to look for love in a time of hook-up culture." And hopeless romantics like me are just victims!

Demonetisation saga One of the reasons given by the government in defence of demonetisation was curbing black money. Within 45 days of the ban, income tax raids across the country have unearthed black/unaccounted money, in old as well as new notes. Bureaucrats, traders and barons have been caught with a huge cache of banknotes, gold and jewellery.

Thus demonetisation has failed in its avowed objective while hurting the common man due to the acute shortage of cash. Very few ATMs are in operation; those which work dispense only Rs.2,000 notes - only one in a day per card. With inadequate preparations after the note ban and with numerous flip-flops on various issues concerning old currency, the credibility of the government and the Reserve Bank of India has taken a beating.

Sunita Singh Changlang, Arunachal Pradesh

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25

OP-ED

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The Elderly In India Are Being Made To Live On Rs 500 A Month. But There's A Bigger Problem I have been referred to as Colony (the wrong ada saviour on multiple oc- dress) has been able to casions by a number of track her, and is trying to people - friends, and help her update the corstrangers alike. Until re- rect address in the sanccently, I tion form. took a cer- Vidhi Agrawal But it's not tain pride in over - the being able to social welsolve people's problems, fare department exsometimes even anticipat- pressed its inability to ing and resolving those. clear complete arrears.

However, problems like a Pension schemes under missing stapler, or non- social welfare are by no functioning mobile means sufficient to help charger are nowhere an individual even achieve comparable to the griev- a decent standard of livances of Suwa Devi, a 50- ing - the absence of even year-old widow depen- that Rs. 500 aggravates dent on a meagre sum of their problems multiple Rs. 500 per month under times. They have to borthe Widow Pension row money from relatives Scheme, who has not and neighbours for their been getting her pension daily sustenance. If and since 11 months. Reason? when pension comes, it The person who filled her gets used up in repaying sanction order form mis- the debts, and the cycle spelled her address - Ram continues. According to Rahim Colony became the government statistics, Ram Nagar Colony. She a large section of older has no clue about the sta- people in rural India is iltus of her pension, claim, literate, and unemployed. or receipt. A well-mean- It is dependent on the ing man in the Ram Nagar family for sustenance.

The pension is expected to give them some semblance of dignity. Instead of an increase in the amount of pension tied to the inflation, what the elderly and/or disabled get are delayed and irregular payments.

Rajasthan also takes a lead in providing maximum coverage under social security pension programs. The widow, single/divorced women, women (55-75) and men (58-75) get Rs. 500 per month. Men and women older than 75 years get Rs. 750 per month. Special persons get Rs. 500, and minors Rs. 250 per month. However, the responsibility of the government does not end at enrolling the people under a scheme. It must also take responsibility or fix responsibility of the people involved in the delivery of these beneficial services to the people.

Generally, we become baffled by problems such

as increased costs of 3G data services, or low bandwidth internet connections. But Kadar Khan, a 60-year-old man who limped along gingerly as we entered the Oriental Bank of Commerce in Pali, had a different problem. We were at the bank to find out how to retrieve his misplaced money.

These 8 Things Give Us Hope That 2016 Will Be Much Better Than 2015. Do You Agree?

While party poopers gonna West Bengal, its first be a poopin', we do believe transgender principal: that the beginning of ev- Boo ya! Finally, the tide has ery new year begun to turn brings with it first dents Artika Raj with the hope that being made in this year is gothe binary (and ing to be different! absolutely ridiculous) defiWhether it be the resolu- nition of 'gender' as only tion to finally start eating male and female. Firebrand healthy, start that Dear Di- activist Akkai Padmashali ary or just about anything inaugurated Kerala's pio- something about the neer policy that looks at change in the calendar year rights of trans people, a marks a triumphant begin- welcome first, and later ning for most of us. In that called out the central govspirit, 2016 looks promis- ernment for refusing to ing to us especially be- decriminalize homosexualcause 2015 gave us some ity from YKA's very own pretty big moments that, platform, CONVERGE. in their after-effects, With the SC ruling recogshould make for an excit- nizing the rights of trans ing 2016. individuals, their increasing 1) The rockstar Supreme participation and inclusion Court gave Section 66A of in the mainstream sugthe IT Act the boot: gests a step forward.

How does sharing your M a n a b i opinion, agreeable or not, Bandhopadhyaybecame over a free space like the West Bengal's first internet even begin to transgender college princicount as a criminal offence pal while Tamil Nadu saw is beyond most people's its first transgender police logic. But while the State officer in Prithika Yashini.

saw otherwise, the SC put things right by removing this 'draconian' provision from law books.

2) Indian Air Force to include women fighter pilots: For far too long, just unbelievably far too long, women officers in the IAF were restricted from joining as fighter pilots because they were thought to be 'physically not suited' for flying fighters and the idea of what would happen to them as POW seemed too horrifying. Of course this restriction made no such sympathetic overtures to the men, whose 'honour' needs no 'protection'. Fortunately, the light of day shone upon minds and Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha declared that the IAF will now recruit women as fighter pilots! When the machine doesn't discriminate over who's flying it, then?

3) Kerala got its first Transgender Policy and

4) Some good initiatives for the mother and child: While still not completely there, child mortality rates (deaths under the age of 5) saw a significant reductionfrom 12.7 million per year in 1990 to 5.9 million in 2015. This was the first year the figure went below the 6 million mark.

With more state forces slowly working towards achieving this MDG, 2016 should bring much better results. Even for mothers, especially working mothers, the government brought relief by making a 26-week maternity leave the norm across private companies and later also mandated that companies have creches to support them better. Not to be left behind, the SC had earlier in the year made it lawful for unwed mothers to be legal guardians of their children, something that was previously caught in a mess of com-

plications.

With these steps to take care of the mother and child, at least, the future has a chance at a healthier report card!

5) Indian women AND men say no to taboos: 2015 was a powerful year for women as they decided to take matters in their own hands and fight back the patriarchy that dogs them at each and every step. From a movement like Pinjra Tod that united women, collegegoing and otherwise, against discriminatory hostel timings that seek to lock women up while men have all the freedom, to something like #HappyToBleed, taboos got a major whiplashing in2015. Nikita Azad penned an open letter on Youth Ki Awaaz to the keepers of the Sabrimala temple, taking them to task over saying a 'puritychecking machine' would have to be invented in the

future for women before they are allowed temple entry. But no more.In 2016, women are going to refuse to be tied up in those shackles for sure!

6) The 'Demographic Dividend' or youth of the country aren't just good for the 'economy' but drive the country's moral compass too: The energy of young people in this country is the fire that it is powered on, and anyone who thinks they can tame it for their personal interests is just plain wrong. Student protests in India saw an unprecedented rise in 2015, right from the#Hokokolorb movement in Kolkata, to the Occupy UGC movement in Delhi, to the FTII agitation in Pune. No part of the country remained untouched by students raising their voice against unfair treatment, or the jeopardizing of their careers by

an irresponsible institution.

Young minds that are tomorrow's leaders not just learnt the lessons in their classrooms, but taught quite a few significant ones to the rest of the country - 'Where the mind is without fear‌' 7) 1000 women stand for UP Panchayat elections in a move that had the pillars of patriarchy trembling: Tradition, custom and what 'she cannot do' are the obstacles thrown a woman's way when she steps out of the house.

And in the Uttar Pradesh heartland, these can take an especially ugly turn.

But undeterred by social taboos, threats of violence and even family pressure, around a 1000 women stood up as candidates in the local Panchayat elections, with 400 of them going on to bag seats!

While the Parliament still remains stuck at whether to implement 33.5% reservation for women, guess the message of these women to those in power is clear. Diversity of representation in positions of power is an absolute necessity and these women have shown that inroads are being made into this at every level.

8) People power to the rescue during Chennai floods: In the worst rains to be seen in a 100 years, it was just sheer humanity that saved the lives of hundreds in Chennai towards the end of 2015. As large parts of the city remained submerged for days, people opened their homes to take in others, cooked and distributed meals to the needy round the clock, those on social media put updates about available help from each and every corner while restaurants, malls, and theaters kept their gates open to take in anyone who needed a place to stay.#ChennaiRains became the mantra of rescue and the best of human spirit was on showcase at this time. Faith restored!

While these might just be 8 of the most popular examples from 2015 that show how change is well on its way, equally commendable are the littletalked-about stories of people helping each other on an everyday basis, planting a tree, rescuing a puppy and many such that are worthy of our praise and make us hopeful for an even better 2016.

Courtesy: Youth ki awaaz

Kadar is dependent on a motley sum of Rs. 500 per month which his wife gets under the Old Age pension scheme of the government. For the past 4 months, she has not been able to claim his pension because the e-Mitra personnel entered wrong bank account number in her sanction order, which

was linked to her Bhamashah card.

The parshad (councillor) from his ward, the eMitra personnel in his area, and the man at the helpdesk at bank - none of them knew what to do. The logical step is to get the correct account number updated in the system. However, it

sounds easier than it really is. Even as the money continues to be credited to the wrong account number, the e-Mitra merely issued an acknowledgement slip, the bank clerk clearly tried to evade the issue, not before declaring that the money must be in some suspense account, and they cannot ascertain if arrears can be claimed.

The ward councillor remained elusive as expected.

The point is that everyone in the process declared their helplessness in ensuring that the benefits of the social schemes reached the beneficiary. A solution might be devised in due time; however, at that moment, nobody, including I, knew how to deal with this - a lamentable information gap that compounds the feeling of helplessness multiple times.

What is worse is the lack of will on behalf of the

service staff to solve the people's problems in a genuine manner. Perhaps this is only my perception or illusion, but people entrusted with the implementation responsibility of the schemes at various levels do not even pretend to make attempts to find out how to resolve an issue - their confidence in the human will to strive and survive seems unshakeable!

Pali is no different from Jalor, Rajasmand is as plagued with problems as Ajmer. Not surprisingly, everywhere you go, the system takes the blame.

It's the last resort of blames, and complaints.

To get our answers, we have decided to organise a Jawabdehi Yatra. We aim to take the onus of blame away from the system to the individuals. Whose responsibility? Whose accountability? Where does the solution lie? Courtesy: Youth ki awaaz

Why Is Sexual Violence Against A Woman Seen As An Attack On Her 'Honour' And 'Purity'?

Amreeta Das I received (as did all contributors to this platform) an invitation from Youth Ki Awaaz, to express my views on any topic that has stirred me somehow this year, with a reference to Nikita Azad's letter, that sparked off the #HappyToBleed movement. So, I take my cue from this very reference.

Before going into my subject, I would like to openly salute Nikita. Her move has emboldened me and many other women like me to rethink our taboos regarding menstruation. These taboos are some of the innumerable strategies that the society employs to make women feel weak, and uncomfortable about their bodies.

I begin my article by commenting upon this psycho-social construction of a woman's body, which is one of the most powerful tools of psychological subordination.

A woman's body is the greatest space of oppression for her, the most potent source of inhibition, fear, weakness and fragility. Her 'honour' depends on whether her body has been 'legally penetrated' by a male, or 'illegally violated' by a stranger. In case the latter takes place, she is 'dishonoured', made 'impure'.

From her childhood, a woman is made to disown her body. It is usurped by the society, and the way she feels about it, in turn too, is programmed by the society. So, in a dark night, if she is grabbed by a man or few men and forcibly made to surrender her body to him/ them, it is no longer a question of private or individual suffering that invites the legitimate sympathy of the society (as it would have happened if she was just beaten up, or maimed or tortured, without being sexually assaulted), it is most powerfully a question of a suffering induced by the society's branding of that 'tortured body' as 'impure'. The sympathy, the numerous sighings of "So sad", "They destroyed her for life, bechaari", "Kill them, they destroyed her purity, those beasts",

"Imagine her trauma!", and a thousand more lamenting cries come with the hidden admittance that those men actually succeeded in destroying her 'honour' and 'purity'.

It is also a cruel reality, that the next time when she steps out of her house, she will be looked at with pity, that she is no longer 'pure'. Yes, that one incident will maim her for life, make

tion of her friends. She comes to inhabit a warped, 'violated' environment.

She is socially raped a hundred more times.

It is this 'rhetoric', this nightmarish claustrophobia of 'pity' and 'sympathy' that makes the women relive the trauma, again and again. This rhetoric makes her feel 'dirty', 'impure'.

We all know that language has the enormous power of creating realities. She

somebody believe that she was the victim of a heinous crime and that the society stands by her.

But no crime has the possible power of interfering with her 'honour'. Her honour is far greater, far beyond her 'sexual status'.

A woman is not just about the size of her breasts or shape of her buttocks.

Her 'purity' (Notwithstanding my grave objec-

her feel guilty about herself. At least five out of her 10 avid 'sympathisers' will have speculated, perhaps secretly, about what exactly she was wearing that night and whether that garment adequately covered her body or when exactly she was attacked. Was it too late in the night? If so, then what on earth could a woman be possibly doing alone at that time of the night, knowing that rapists lurk the streets at that time? Could it be that she herself had (of course unconsciously), made some inviting gesture, and of course, the inevitable thought-how clean is she herself as a woman? Is she of the sort who would easily sleep with guys at night or is she the right sort, who firmly protects her 'virginity' for the 'right man'?

The degree of sympathy is directly proportional to the 'appropriateness of her character'. If she dances in clubs at night, then, of course it is not much of a wonder that she was raped (I mean, big deal, a woman like that is any way used to sleeping with multiple partners, why not few more?) She is painfully aware of the whispers, the curious glances, and the hushed conversa-

is made to inhabit this warped reality, where her 'honour' is measured by her 'sexual purity'.

But I ask, which man/ woman possesses the power to dishonour or disgrace a woman by forcefully having sex with her?

How do we define her 'honour'? Is it so brittle, so weak that any man can sully it, by inappropriately touching her body, by forcing himself on her? Instead, we make her feel weak and 'impure', by actually ascribing the power of dishonouring and violating her to the rapist.

tions against the usage of this very vague term in any context, I use it in its popular cultural sense) had never anything to do with her sexual status.

It is shameful that our pious authorities are (the same people who vociferously demand the death of the rapist or even wishes to lynch him) perversely occupied with her 'sexuality'. They cannot look at her without immediately imagining her 'body' and measuring it in their selfcreated 'purity metre'. Of course, this same society wishes to burn the rapist alive or castrate him. But does it give one moment of constructive thought that it must redefine the way it expresses its collective sympathy for the woman?

Collective sympathy has the real power of boosting somebody, making

The psychological trauma that any victim of sexual assault has to go through has much to do with this deeply patriarchal rhetoric that in powerful ways make the victim feel guilty and the perpetrator powerful. We need to shatter this 'warped' reality that has been killing girls all over the planet, whether raped or not. We need to militate against this linguistic subjugation of the mind. We might torture the rapist to death.

But would that change the way a woman is perceived? Would a man begin thinking that it is irrelevant whether his fiancĂŠ is the survivor of some gruesome crime and whether that crime had anything to do with her sexuality?

The way we use words or have been taught to use words reflect the way we have been conditioned to think. The onus is on us and no one else, on how we liberate ourselves from this conditioning.

Courtesy: Youth ki awaaz

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25

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NATION

Prasad exhorts people to make digital payments Modi lays Foundation for Shivaji PTI Patna, Dec 24 : Union Minister for Electronics and Information Technology Ravi Shankar Prasad today exhorted people, especially businessmen, to adopt and promote digital transactions for the country's economic development.

Advocating for "cashless, less-cash and digital payments", Prasad, who is also Law and Justice Minister, distributed Point of Sale (POS) machines among the businessmen and traders here at a function to promote and popularise the use of digital transactions/payments.

"It is not about 'cashless' rather the government

Ravi Shankar Prasad. stresses 'less' on cash. Our emphasis is to promote digital mode of payments," Prasad said at a function here.

He was addressing a gathering of businessmen and

traders at a 'Go Cashless Awareness Programme' organised by the Electronics and Information Technology Ministry at Khajekalan in the state capital.

The minister, who along with Bihar BJP chief Nityanand Rai, made digital payment for having tea at Bablu Gupta's tea stall at Khajekalan area in Patna city after the function, also showed people how easy is digital transaction.

While addressing people, Prasad said, "The drive for digital payment would make India a stronger country. It would broaden the ambit of tax net...Demonetisation is a surgical strike on black money and aims to wipe out corruption.

The decision would ultimately help honest people."

He said, "It is not only easy to make or accept

digital payments but it would also keep record of the transactions a businessmen had in a day or month and on that basis, he/she may get loans from banks easily."

A person can make payments using his/her cards, mobile phones and Aadhaar today given the fact that there are 105 crore mobile phones, 109 crore Aadhaar cards, 50 crore internet connections, 35 crore smart phones.

He made it clear to the businessmen that government agencies would not go after the transactions that they had carried out prior to November 8.

Dense fog in 'PM's highly advertised project launch is a poll stunt' Delhi, 52 trains

Former union minister Gurudas Kamat.

PTI Mumbai, Dec 24 : Former union minister Gurudas Kamat today slammed Prime Minister Narendra Modi s highly "advertised" launch of projects in Mumbai as a "poll stunt".

"The launch of projects

by Modi is a poll stunt.

But for the sake of Mumbai and Mumbaikars the party hopes that these projects will be completed on time," Kamat, general secretary of AICC, said in a statement here.

The statement made by Kamat assumes significance in the backdrop that polls for the Mumbai civic body will be held in early 2017.

The Congress leader said, "It was because of my efforts that then former Railway Minister Mamata Banerjee cleared proposals for

launch 15 coach trains, extension of harbour line from CST to Goregaon and modernisation of 3 suburban stations of Andheri, Jogeshwari and Goregaon."

"Also the new railway station at Ram Mandir Road which was inaugurated by Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu recently is part of the follow-up," the release quoting Kamat said.

The Congress leader said that it was in his speech at a function where Mamata Banerjee was present that he had proposed elevated railway to be considered on Central and Western railway lines to alleviate the problems of suburban commuters and to reduce congestion on city roads.

"All of these proposals were accepted by Banerjee. She held a se-

ries of meetings with Railway Board members on this and had cleared all the projects for city," said the release.

All technical clearances and support of the Central Government were obtained during the UPA tenure for the launch of elevated railway on both Central and Western railway lines, but the matter was held up at the state government level for FSI of 5 demanded by the Railways.

"It is surprising though as clearances for these initiatives have happened and many of them launched and completed, the Churchgate to Bandra Elevated Railway Extension seems to have been mysteriously dropped by the BJP Government," said Kamat.

After completion of Metro-I, the second phase of metro was also launched by the then President Pratibha Patil.

The Dahisar to Mankhurd stretch which was already planned and approved is today being relaunched by the Prime Minister.

However, instead from Dahisar the project will now be between D N Nagar to Mankhurd.

Kamat hoped that BJP led Central and State Government will acknowledge efforts taken during the regime of UPA Government for making these initiatives a reality.

Man suffers cardiac arrest in bank queue, dies PTI Mathura, Dec 24 : A labourer died after he allegedly suffered a cardiac arrest while standing in a bank queue here to withdraw money "for the treatment of his son".

Uma Shankar, a resident of Durga colony in Goverdhan, was queued outside the Govardhan branch of Central bank yesterday, to withdraw money for the treatment of his ailing son, when he suffered a cardiac arrest, police said.

"He died before any treatment could be provided," they said.

Shankar, father of five daughters and a son, was trying to withdraw money from the bank for the last four days, police said.

Angry villagers led by a local RLD leader Kunvar Narendra Singh, blocked

running late

memorial, Uddhav joins him

Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

PTI Mumbai, Dec 24 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi today laid the Foundation for a Rs 3,600-crore grand memorial for Shivaji Maharaj off the city coast, an event that comes a few months ahead of the civic polls and amid tussle among parties to claim the legacy of the 17th century warrior king.

Modi, accompanied by select dignitaries, including Governor Vidyasagar Rao, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Shiv Sena President Uddhav

Thackeray, sailed in a hovercraft from Girgaum Chowpatty beach in south Mumbai to reach near the memorial site, some 1.5km off the coast.

The PM performed the 'jalpujan' at the designated spot, symbolically marking the start of construction of the magnificent memorial in the Arabian Sea, which, according to the state government, is going to be the tallest such structure in the world.

Shivaji's descendants Udayanraje Bhosale and Sambhaji Raje (both Par-

liamentarians) were also on board the hovercraft.

Before the event, Fadnavis handed over to Modi a 'kalash' (vase) containing river waters and soil collected from all districts in Maharashtra.

When the hovercraft reached the memorial site, Modi immersed the 'kalash' in the sea. The PM also inspected a float depicting Shivaji Maharaj's coronation.

During the ceremony, Modi was seen talking to Thackeray, whose party, despite being an ally, has been a bitter critic of many of the BJP-led NDA Government's decisions, including demonetisation.

Earlier in the day, Sena alleged the BJP has "hijacked" the occasion to reap political benefit.

In October last year, Thackeray had 'boycotted' a foundation stone-laying ceremony for the Ambedkar memorial, apparently after he was denied a seat along side the PM on the dais.

Mumbai Cong chief claims he is under 'house arrest', police Flight operations at Delhi airport, however, remained normal, said a Delhi airport spokesperson. (Source: File) New Delhi, Dec 24 : Delhi was on Saturday enveloped in a dense cover of fog with the minimum temperature settling at 8 degrees Celisus even as 52 trains were running late and seven others rescheduled due to fog in northern states. The visibility at Safdarjung and Palam was recorded at 300 meters and 200 meters respectively at 5.30 AM. It dipped to 200 meters at Safdarjung while it was 300 meters at Palam, at 8.30 AM, said the official.

The fog affected visibility

resulted in late running of 52 trains while 7 trains were rescheduled, said a Railways spokesperson. Flight operations at Delhi airport, however, remained normal, said a Delhi airport spokesperson.

The day ahead is forecast to be clear with maximum temperature expected to hover around 24 degrees, said MeT official. Humidity was recorded at 97 percent at 8.30 AM. The maximum temperature was recorded at 25.2 degrees Celsius yesterday, while minimum settled at 7.8 degrees Celsius.

Duo held with 16 kg gold at Mumbai airport PTI New Delhi, Dec 24 : Two fliers, allegedly carrying nearly 16 kg gold, have been held at the Mumbai airport after they took a flight from the Indira Gandhi International Aiport (IGIA) here.

Officials said the incident was reported late last night when CISF personnel intercepted the two passengers carrying the said gold in their baggage.

The two, identified as N Jadhav and P Jadhav,

were handed over by CISF to the Income Tax department sleuths here who allowed them to board their flight to Mumbai but not before intimating their counterparts in the western metropolis, the officials said.

"The duo, carrying 15.85 kg gold, were detained by the I-T department in Mumbai as soon as they landed there and the matter is being investigated," they said.

PTI Mumbai, Dec 24 : Mumbai Congress chief Sanjay Nirupam, who planned to lead a 'silent' march of party workers to the venue of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's public meeting here today, claimed he had been placed under "house arrest" by police which denied the charge.

Mumbai Police said the personnel deployed outside Nirupam's residence were only part of the security arrangements made across the city in view of the PM's visit for launching some major projects.

"The area outside my house is under heavy police bandobast and I am being prevented from stepping out," Nirupam told PTI, "In the present democratic set up Opposition leaders are being virtually kept under housearrest," he alleged.

Asked about Nirupam's allegation, Mumbai Police spokesperson, DCP Ashok Dudhe. said, "We have deployed policemen across the city especially on the route of PM's convoy to maintain law and order as well as to avoid any untoward incident during his visit."

Mumbai Congress chief Sanjay Nirupam.

Nirupam said the morcha was planned as a peaceful march to highlight some live issues.

"We have a lot of questions for the PM. He should answer graft allegations made by our Vice President Rahul Gandhi instead of mocking him. Modi should also answer when the people will get back their right to deposit and withdraw their own hard earned money from banks. It is more than a month. Since demonetisation citizens are still suffering due to cash crunch," he said.

AICC General Secretary in-charge of Maharashtra, Mohan Prakash accused the police of curbing the

democratic rights of political rivals, which he alleged was being done at the behest of the government.

"Earlier, the government put restrictions on citizens' rights to access their money and now there are restrictions on freedom of expression as well," he said.

Condemning the "house arrest" of Nirupam, MPCC spokersperson Sachin Sawant said, "It is indeed, a black day for Indian democracy.

This act confirms the fact that the BJP government has a sadist and fascist mindset, which denies the citizen's basic fundamental constitutional right to protest peacefully.

Centre discriminating against Malayalam: Chennithala Man suffers cardiac arrest in bank queue, dies roads for over three hours, demanding compensation for Shankar's family and police case against the bank employees.

The blockade was removed after police intervened.

"We are not going to sit idle unless justice is given

to the labourer," said Singh.

"A probe will be initiated to ascertain the alleged accusation against the bank staff," SDM M P Singh said.

"Efforts will be made to provide maximum help to Uma Shankar's family," he added.

PTI Kochi, Dec 24 : Leader of the Opposition in Kerala Assembly, Ramesh Chennithala today accused the Centre of "discriminating" against Malayalam language by not including it among regional languages for holding the NEET for admission in medical colleges for 2017-18.

The senior Congress leader urged the

CPI(M)-led LDF government in the state to "urgently" take up the matter with the union government.

"It is unfair. It is an injustice to the people of Kerala," Chennithala told reporters here when his attention was drawn to the non-inclusion of Malayalam and Kannada among the languages for holding the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test (NEET).

"It is a discrimination.

Both Malayalam and Kannada should be included," he said.

Noting that a majority of students, who study in government-run educational institutions, are more familiar with their local languages than English, Chennithala said the state government should come forward and appeal to the Centre on the matter.

"Omitting Malayalam

cannot be justified. The state government should urgently take up the matter with the Centre.

It should urge the central government to include Malayalam," he said.

Otherwise, the students from the state will not get adequate representation in the medical courses, he argued.

His statement comes a day after his party colleague and Karnataka

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said that his government had written to the Centre stating that NEET exams should be held in Kannada also.

The Union Health Ministry had on December 21 said that NEET exams for admission in medical colleges will be held in eight languages, Hindi, English, Assamese, Bengali, Gujarati, Marathi, Tamil and Telugu.

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25

P9

BUSINESS

Modi promises more reforms, says I-T detects Rs 47.74 cr unaccounted income note ban short-term pain PTI Patalganga, Dec 24 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi today hinted at unleashing more radical reforms, saying his government will not shy away from taking difficult decisions that are in national interest and admitted the note ban caused "short-term pain".

Inaugurating a new educational and training campus of the Sebi-run National Institute of Securities Markets (NISM) in this industrial township near Mumbai, Modi said "the government will unveil more long-term policies that are stable and sound" so as to sustain the higher economic growth rate.

"Our government will continue to follow sound and prudent economic policies and we will not

Prime Minister Narendra Modi. take decisions for shortterm political point scoring."

Admitting that the demonetisation drive has caused some "short-term pains" to the public, Modi said this "will bring in benefits in the long-term".

Despite the lingering disagreements between the Centre and the states over the dual control of the

GST mechanism, Modi expressed hope that the biggest tax reform the nation has seen till date will be a reality shortly.

Claiming he has transformed the economy since assuming office over 30 months ago, the PM said when he took over the economy was in dire straits with high current account and fiscal

deficits, near-double digit inflation and low forex reserves.

In spite of all difficulties, he said his government has improved these key metrics massively since assuming office in May 2014 and today the country is a bright spot in otherwise a gloomy global environment.

Even as the whole world is fighting a prolonged slowdown, "India is being seen as a bright spot with growth projected to be highest amongst the large economies", he said.

Modi said advancing budget presentation will help improve productivity by ensuring adequate resources to all productive sectors of the economy.

Lauding Sebi for facilitating a large number of IPOs this year and helping the capital markets to

grow, he said the financial markets are very important for a fast-growing economy.

He underlined the need for developing a robust corporate bond markets so that banks funds can be utilised for other less organised sectors.

Modi asked market watchdog Sebi and Finance Ministry to enable municipalities to tap markets. Stock markets should help in raising capital for productive purposes while the bond market could become a source of long-term infra finance.

The event was attended

by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, Maharashtra Governor Vidyasagar Rao, state Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Sebi Chairman U K Sinha and many other officials and senior bankers.

'Consumer Ministry most Sri Lanka needs neglected by Centre, states' competitive

Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan.

PTI New Delhi, Dec 24 : The Consumer Ministry, both at the central as well as state level, is the most "neglected" despite mandate to take care of 1.23 crore consumers, Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan said today.

Expressing concern about vacant posts and lack of infrastructure at state and district consumer courts, the Consumer Affairs Minister appreciated their efforts in disposing of 41 lakh cases in the last 30 years despite poor facilities.

Paswan urged the state governments to provide adequate facilities for smooth functioning of these courts as there is expected to be a "flood" cases after the new Consumer Protection Bill gets passed in Parliament. The government has made sweeping changes in the bill to protect consumer rights.

"I had told the Prime Minister in the first meeting that we have 1.23 crore

population and all are consumers, but the Department has been most neglected, be it at Centre or state level," Paswan said at an event organised to celebrate the National Consumer Day here.

It is commendable that the consumer courts have been able to dispose of 41 lakh cases since the 1986 when the Consumer Protection law was enacted, he said.

"But, the number is still less. There are two-three reasons. One is that the posts to fill 200 members are still lying vacant. There is no adequate infrastructure provided and salary is also an issues."

In a federal structure, the state governments have to address these issues and the central government has time and again reminded them to fix these gaps, he said.

Asserting that a lot more needs to be done to create awareness about consumer rights, he said states and the industry should take proactive step to redress grievances.

Consumer helplines have

been set up, the number of such centres although being increased, still many consumers do not know where to file the complaints, he said.

Talking about alternative dispute resolution (ADR), the minister said the mediation route for resolving consumer disputes should be done fast and justice should be delivered fast to affected party.

Observing that mediation is not an effective ADR tool to redress consumer cases, National Consumers Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) President D K Jain said: "I am not saying mediation as ADR will not work. I have certain reservations.

It may not be that effective.

"Mediation in consumer disputes is fraught with bottlenecks ... In mediation, there is big gap of bargaining power as consumer is represented in person in most cases, while the other side is represented by big lawyers."

He said mediation cannot be ADR as Consumer Protection Act was legislated as ADR. "Mediation can only supplement and not sub-plant the Act," he said, adding that there is a need to change the basic mindset of seller/service provide who are more keen in prolonging cases to the detriment of consumer.

"The expected results of mediation will come out only if this mindset changed," he said.

You could earn 1-year return of an FD in one day in equities: Nilesh Shah NEW DELHI: You can earn one-year's return on a bank fixed deposit in just one day by investing your money in equities.

The statement may look like an exaggeration, but there have been instances in the past when stock prices shot up more than 10 per cent in a single day.

The benchmark equity indices might have disappointed investors so far in calendar year 2016, but there is no dearth of multibagger stocks.

Nearly 20 stocks from the smallcap space have more than doubled investors'

wealth in last one year while 10 stock from the midcap space -including Biocon, Indian Bank, JSW SteelBSE 0.01 %, Piramal Enterprises, HPCLBSE 0.51 % and UPL, among others - have delivered over 50 per cent returns.

The domestic equity market is expected to remain rangebound for the next two months at least, say experts.

But investors can use any dip to buy quality stocks.

"An equity investor has to accept the swing of the pendulum. If he can average himself at the lower end of the pendulum into this market, probably he will make far more money in equity than

in fixed income," Nilesh Shah, MD, Kotak AMC, said in an interview with ETNow. The broader market indices are ending the calendar year broadly at the same level where they were at the beginning of the year while fixed income as an asset class has delivered double-digit returns courtesy an interest rate cut as well as a rise in liquidity thanks to demonetisation.

But as we enter calendar 2016, things might change for the fixed income space.

Although fixed income remains one of the safest asset classes, betting on equities could just help create more wealth.

of bullion traders,

I-T detects Rs 47.74 cr unaccounted income of bullion traders, PTI Bengaluru, Dec 23 : The Income Tax department on Friday said it has detected undisclosed income of Rs 47.74 crore after surveys were conducted at half-a-dozen bullion traders and jewellers in the city following surge in their sales post demonetisation.

Officials said the operations were carried out after the investigation wing of the department here got inputs that these traders dealing in the yellow metal and precious stones recorded sales much higher than that in the

same period last year.

"Apart from receipts in RTGS (funds transfer system through bank) in their (traders) accounts, there were huge cash deposits. On verification of cash sales, it was found that more of these transactions were done in October-November this year and all cash transactions were kept below the Rs 2 lakh threshold and without any details regarding the customer to whom the sale was made.

"We suspect this was apparently done to avoid Tax Deducted at Source

(TDS) and mandatory quoting of purchasers' PAN. Huge cash deposits in bank accounts after demonetisation have been noticed in these cases. It is found that some of these jewellers have back-dated the bills and even paid VAT to to give the transactions a colour of genuineness," they said.

Officials added in some cases, it was found that the sales had been "suppressed" previous years too.

"Further investigations are on to verify the genuineness of RTGS received in their account. Some of the jewellers are found to have not filed the returns of income also for the past several years. The surveys have resulted in detection of undisclosed income of Rs 47.74 crore," they said.

In an another case in Anekal village of the city, the taxman seized a total cash of Rs 1.15 crore, with Rs 1.07 crore in new notes, from a transporter who was indulging in illegal conversion of old currency.

exchange rate: Central Bank Modi favours higher taxes

PTI Colombo, Dec 24 : Sri Lanka needs to maintain a competitive exchange rate that would promote exports and not allow an over-valuation of the rupee that may reduce export competitiveness, the country's Central Bank has said.

The statement came as the rupee to the dollar fetched 152.37 yesterday, which analysts said was a record high.

The Sri Lankan currency throughout 2016 had depreciated by 10 per cent against the dollar.

"Maintaining a competitive exchange rate aimed at promoting Sri Lankan exports in the international market and attracting foreign direct investment to Sri Lanka will remain vital in promoting the country as a globally competitive export-led economy," the Central Bank statement said.

"If the exchange rate is overvalued/appreciated especially for a country like Sri Lanka, which

continues to record a budget deficit and imposes significant tariffs on foreign trade, the budget deficit would further expand," the central bank said.

Central Bank said maintaining a stable exchange rate against the US dollar cannot be considered as a sustainable approach since this would lead to an overvaluation of the Sri Lankan rupee which would in turn reduce the competitiveness of exports.

Responding to opposition criticism that government's economic mismanagement was the reason for the falling rupee, deputy foreign minister Harsha de Silva who is also a leading economist in the government said domestic policies had nothing to do with the currency fluctuations in global markets.

"There will be ups and downs what we do is steer the economy to where it needs to go," he said.

from market participants PTI P a t a l g a n g a (M'rashtra), Dec 24 : Ahead of the Budget, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday favoured increasing the tax contribution from various market participants in a "fair, efficient and transparent way" and promised more "sound and prudent policies and reform measures".

Asking the regulators and taxmen to think about the contribution of market participants to the exchequer, Modi said, "The low contribution of taxes may be due to the structure of our tax laws. Low or zero tax rate is given to certain types of financial income."

Securities transaction tax also features among the various levies in the financial markets. According to estimates, an investor pays around 15.3 per cent in taxes.

The Prime Minister's remarks assume much significance ahead of the Budget to be presented in the first week of February.

"Those who profit from

the financial markets must make a fair contribution to nation-building through taxes. For various reasons, the contribution of tax from those who make money on the markets has been low. To some extent, it may be due to illegal activities and fraud," Modi said without mentioning about any particular tax.

"We should consider methods for increasing it in a fair, efficient and transparent way," added the Prime Minister, while inaugurating the new educational and training campus of the Sebi-run National Institute of Securities Markets in this industrial township near Mumbai.

Modi said tax rates can go up as every investor today gets equal tax treatment.

"In the past, there was a feeling that some investors were getting an unfair deal by using certain tax treaties. As you know, those treaties have been amended by the government.

Now, it is time to rethink

and come up with a good design which is simple and transparent, but also fair and progressive."

Former Finance Minister P Chidambaram had introduced the securities transaction tax (STT) in 2004.

When introduced, the rate was 0.125 per cent for a delivery stock and 0.025 per cent on intra-day transactions and 0.017 per cent on futures and options transactions, to stop tax avoidance of capital gains tax.

The 2013 budget reduced STT to 0.1 per cent on the turnover for delivery and also futures, while for equity options, it was cut to 0.05 per cent on sale premium.

Currently, the STT is charged at 0.1 per cent on all delivery trades in the cash market, and at 0.025 per cent on sell leg of all non-delivery trades in the cash market (equity shares and units of equity oriented funds).

On top of it, there is 15 per cent tax from June this year -- 14 per cent towards service tax and 0.5 per cent each of Swachh Bharat and Krishi Kalyan cess.

Google to launch online safety campaign for consumers PTI New Delhi, Dec 24 : In a bid to raise awareness about online safety, Google India has partnered Ministry of Consumer Affairs for rolling out a nationwide 'Digitally Safe Consumer' campaign.

Google, along with Department of Consumer Affairs, will undertake a year-long campaign focussed on building capacities of consumer organisations, personnel of Consumer Affairs department and counsellors of National Consumer Helpline on

Google to launch online safety campaign for consumers

Internet safety and related issues.

"With the rapid increase in digitisation across all spheres, the

message of internet safety needs to be integrated into the everyday tasks that the consumer undertakes

online," Google India Country head (Public Policy) Chetan Krishnaswamy said in a statement.

workshops training about 500 people, including 250 consumer organisations across the country.

This initiative will add to Google's existing campaigns guiding users to navigate the web and manage their digital lives safely and leverage the web to the fullest, he added.

In order to provide training and information on online safety tools, Google with the help of partner agencies will work towards advocating digital security and privacy needs through

These trainers will further engage with the local community to spread awareness around the need for internet safety.

The campaign, which is expected to roll out in J a n u a r y, 2 0 1 7 , w i l l reach out with training materials to over 1,200 consumer organisations as well as consumer affairs department of every state and union territories.

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25

P10

INTERNATIONAL

Indian-American Putin's remarks on Clinton defeat 'so true': Trump charged with visa

PTI Washington, Dec 24 : US President-elect Donald Trump today said Russian President Vladimir Putin's remarks that the Democrats are looking elsewhere for their defeat in the elections were "so true".

"Vladimir Putin said today about Hillary and Dems: "In my opinion, it is humiliating. One must be able to lose with dignity." So true!" Trump tweeted.

At his annual news conference in Moscow yesterday, Putin said the Democrats "are losing on all fronts and looking elsewhere for things to blame", The Washington Post reported.

"In my view, this, how shall I say it, degrades their own dignity. You have to know how to lose with dignity," he said.

The Democratic party and the Clinton Campaign have been blaming Russian hacking into their emails and servers for their loss.

Outgoing US President Barack Obama has ordered an investigation into the alleged Russian interference in US presidential elections.

Putin criticised the Democrats for blaming him for their defeat.

"Outstanding figures in American history from the ranks of the Democratic Party would likely be turning in their graves.

US President-elect Donald Trump.

Roosevelt certainly would be," Putin said.

"Trump understood the mood of the people and kept going until the end,

when nobody believed in him... except for you and me," he added.

Earlier yesterday, the Trump Transition Team

released a letter from Putin to Trump in which he called for strong bilateral relationship.

"Serious global and regional challenges, which our countries have to face in recent years, show that the relations between Russia and the US remain an important factor in ensuring stability and security of the modern world," Putin wrote.

"I hope that after you assume the position of the President of the United States of America we will be able by acting in a constructive and pragmatic manner - to take real steps to restore the framework of bilateral cooperation in different areas as well

as bring our level of collaboration on the international scene to a qualitatively new level," said the Russian President.

"Please accept my sincere wishes to you and your family of sound health, happiness, wellbeing, success and all the best," Putin wrote as per the unofficial translation of the letter released by the Presidential Transition Team.

Trump praised the letter, saying a "very nice letter from Vladimir Putin; his thoughts are so correct. I hope both sides are able to live up to these thoughts, and we do not have to travel an alternate path".

UN demands end to Israeli Sri Lanka's record Xmas tree settlements after US abstains pruned due to work delays

UN demands end to Israeli settlements after US abstains.

AFP United Nations, Dec 24 : The UN Security Council has demanded that Israel halt settlements in Palestinian territory, after the United States refrained from vetoing a resolution condemning its closest Middle East ally.

In a rare and momentous step, the United States instead abstained, enabling the adoption of the first UN resolution since 1979 to condemn Israel over its settlement policy.

Applause broke out in the chamber after the text was passed with support from all remaining members of the 15-member council.

The landmark move by the Security Council yesterday came despite an effort led by Israel and backed by US Presidentelect Donald Trump to block the text.

Trump reacted after the vote in a tweet, vowing: "As to the UN, things will be different after Jan 20th."

Ambassador Samantha

Power said the US abstention stemmed from concerns that the expansion of the Jewish outposts was threatening the two-state solution aimed at achieving peace by creating a Palestinian state alongside Israel.

"We do not believe that outside parties can impose a solution that has not been negotiated by the two parties, nor can we unilaterally recognize a future Palestinian state," said Power.

"But it is precisely our commitment to Israel's security that makes the United States believe that we cannot stand in the way of this resolution as we seek to preserve a chance of attaining our longstanding objective of two states living side by side in peace and security," she said.

"The settlement problem has gotten so much worse that it is now putting at risk the very viability of that two-state solution," said Power.

Israeli settlements are seen as a major stum-

bling block to peace efforts, as they are built on land the Palestinians see as part of their future state.

Palestinian President Mahmud Abbas's office said the vote was "a big blow" to Israeli policy and a show of "strong support for the two-state solution."

The United Nations maintains that settlements are illegal, but UN officials have reported a surge in construction over the past months.

Some 430,000 Israeli settlers currently live in the West Bank and a further 200,000 Israelis live in east Jerusalem, which the Palestinians see as the capital of their future state.

The resolution demands that "Israel immediately and completely cease all settlement activities in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem."

It states that Israeli settlements have "no legal validity" and are "dangerously imperiling the viability of the two-state solution."

Israeli Ambassador Danny Danon criticized the administration of President Barack Obama for not vetoing "this disgraceful resolution."

"I have no doubt that the new US administration and the incoming UN secretary general will usher in a new era in terms of the UN's relationship with Israel," said Danon.

AFP Colombo, Dec 24 : Sri Lanka surpassed the world record for the tallest artificial Christmas tree Saturday despite building delays forcing organisers to prune the structure by almost half, an official said.

Cricket legend Arjuna Ranatunga initiated plans to build the record-breaking tree in Sri Lanka's capital Colombo, but ran into opposition from the Catholic church which said the money would be better spent on charity.

"Initial opposition... meant a delay of about 10 days in our construction work," event coordinator Mangala Gunasekera told AFP. "Our target was 100 metres (328 feet), but construction delays forced us to cut down the height," he said.

As of Saturday morning, the tree was about 57 metres (187 feet) tall, he said, two metres taller than an artificial Christmas tree erected in the southern Chinese province of Guangzhou last year.

The Sri Lankan claim is

Sri Lanka's record Xmas tree pruned due to work delays subject to confirmation by the Guinness World Records.

Gunasekera said 600,000 coloured LED bulbs would be used to decorate the tree, along with a six-metre (20-foot) Santa and a 12-metre (40-foot) sleigh.

"On Christmas eve, we will switch on the lights," he added.

Ranatunga, who led Sri Lanka to victory in the 1996 World Cup, has been at the forefront of the project to raise funds for the artificial tree as a symbol of religious unity.

The project was rescued after Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe spoke to the Archbishop of

AFP Brussels, Dec 24 : A highlevel commission that oversees Iran's nuclear deal with world powers will meet in Vienna on January 10 to address a complaint

by Tehran about the renewing of sanctions by the United States.

The meeting was called today by the European Union's foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini, who coordinates follow-up of the nuclear deal for its signatories -- Iran, the US, Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia.

"The meeting will review the implementation of the agreement and discuss the issues raised in the letter (Iranian) Foreign Minister Zarif addressed on 16 December to (Mogherini)," a short statement from the EU said.

The officials will meet 10

days before the inauguration of Donald Trump, who has promised to tear up the nuclear deal once in the White House.

Zarif formally requested the meeting after Washington on December 2 extended the Iran Sanctions Act -- which mostly seeks to limit Iran's oil and gas trade -- for another decade.

Although it received overwhelming support from the US Congress, President Barack Obama argues the act is largely symbolic since its measures are suspended as long as the nuclear deal remains in place.

Iranian leaders, including supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and President Hassan Rouhani, disagree, calling it a "clear violation".

Another concern for Iran is a wider frustration that the

nuclear deal has not produced many of the expected benefits due to the reluctance of international banks to do business in the country.

Zarif could use the meeting to complain that although hundreds of European companies are desperate to resume trading with Iran, major lenders are still refusing to facilitate big transactions.

This is because Washington still has a number of non-nuclear sanctions in place that prevent anyone doing business with a long list of Iranians it says are linked to terrorism, human rights abuses and its ballistic missile programme.

Despite the nuclear deal, a wrong move could result in gigantic penalties like the USD 9 billion fine slapped on French bank BNP Paribas in 2014.

Image for representational purpose.

PTI Colombo, Dec 24 : A Sri Lankan court has acquitted five naval intelligence officers accused of killing an outspoken Tamil lawmaker, who advocated greater self-rule for the minority community, 10 years ago during the civil war.

The case had been heard before a special jury for the first time in history and it is the firstever occasion that a verdict was given after midnight.

Nadaraja Raviraj, who represented the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) from the northern Jaffna district, was

shot dead outside his home in his car in Colombo in November, 2006.

The police's Crime Investigations Department had found the vehicle and the weapons allegedly used for the murder.

Raviraj was an advocate for greater self-rule for minority Tamils and had explained the Tamil perspective of the conflict in Sinhala, the language of the majority.

He was shot dead during the country's threedecade-long civil war with Tamil Tiger rebels, which ended in 2009.

The suspects held were

Indian-American charged with visa fraud in US.

PTI Washington, Dec 24 : A 49-year-old Indian-origin man has been charged in the US with fraud and aggravated identity theft for obtaining two H-1B visas by false immigration documents.

According to the indictment, Abhijit Prasad filed 31 petitions for H-1B nonimmigrant visas containing false statements, made under penalty of perjury, as to purported work projects to be performed at various locations in California.

The indictment further alleges that Prasad obtained two H-1B visas procured by fraud and false statements, and used the means of identification of a real person to effectuate his visa fraud scheme.

The federal grand jury returned a 33-count indictment yesterday against Prasad of Tracy, California, charging him with 31 counts of visa fraud and two counts of aggravated identity theft, United States Attorney Phillip A Talbert announced.

The prosecution is the result of an investigation led by the US Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service s representative to the

Colombo Malcolm Ranjith to secure his blessings.

The archbishop had initially described the project as "wasteful expenditure" and said that the estimated 200,000 cost would have been better spent on alleviating poverty.

Last year Sri Lanka's Catholic church urged priests not to put up Christmas trees in their churches over the festive period, with Cardinal Ranjith saying they had no religious significance.

Sri Lanka is a mainly Buddhist country but around 1.2 million of its population of 21 million are Catholics.

AFP

Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force (DBFTF), overseen by the Department of Homeland Security s Homeland Security Investigations.

The DBFTF is a multiagency task force that coordinates investigations into fraudulent immigration documents.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service s Office of Fraud Detection and National Security also assisted with the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Nirav Desai is prosecuting the case.

On December 23, 2016, the defendant was arraigned on the indictment and released with conditions, including the surrender of his passport and a bond until a further detention hearing. The defendant s next appearance is on December 28, 2016, before a US Magistrate Judge.

If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum statutory penalty of ten (10) years on each visa fraud count, and a USD 250,000 fine. He faces a two-year mandatory, consecutive sentence on the aggravated identity theft counts, as well as a USD 250,000 fine.

Jordan praises 'historic' UN Israel settlement vote

Sri Lanka court acquits murder suspects of Tamil legislator

Iran nuclear deal powers to meet January 10

fraud in US

all Naval intelligence personnel who were acquitted and released after they were found not guilty by a special jury.

The decision was reached after midnight following a trial which lasted over a month.

One of the suspects had died during the trial, according to reports.

The jury has decided that the accused cannot be convicted based only on the fact that they were identified by several witnesses in the case.

The accused were charged on five counts under the provisions of the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and Penal Code.

The High Court tried three of the suspects in absentia as they were absconding since the beginning of the nvestigations.

Another suspect former Police Constable Manamperige Sanjaya Preethi Viraj, had turned state witness in the case.

He was released Thursday after in the remand custody for almost 20 months.

Amman, Dec 24 : Jordan today welcomed the "historic" UN Security Council resolution demanding a halt to Israeli settlements, saying the momentous vote paved a way for a two- state solution.

The 15-member council passed the resolution yesterday after the US abstained and despite an effort led by Israel and backed

by US President-elect Donald Trump to block the text.

"This historic decision expresses the consensus of the international community on the illegality of Israeli settlements and reaffirms the Palestinian people's historic right (to live) in Jerusalem and its historic lands," Jordan's information minister Mohammad al-Momani said today.

Some 430,000 Israeli settlers

currently live in the West Bank and a further 200,000 Israelis live in east Jerusalem, which Palestinians see as the capital of their future state.

The resolution demands that "Israel immediately and completely cease all settlement activities in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East Jerusalem."

It states that Israeli settlements have "no legal validity" and are "dangerously imperilling the viability of the two-state solution."

Momani said the resolution reinforced the historic position of Jordan - one of the few Arab states to have diplomatic ties with Israel - on the need for a two state solution.

The Middle East peace process has been comatose since a US initiative to relaunch peace talks collapsed in April 2014.

Explosion rocks Syria's Aleppo as residents return AP Beirut, Dec 24 : Syrian state TV says an explosion rocked eastern Aleppo as some residents were returning to their homes after the government assumed full control of the city earlier this week.

It says the explosion today was caused by a device left inside a school by Syrian rebels, who withdrew from their last remaining enclave under a cease-fire deal after more than four years of fighting.

A correspondent for Lebanon's Hezbollah-run AlManar TV was reporting live from the area when the blast sounded in the background, sending a huge cloud of dust into the air.

The correspondent later said that at least three people were killed.

The rebel pullout from Aleppo, which was completed on Thursday, marks President Bashar Assad's greatest victory since the conflict began in 2011.

WOMEN

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25

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The Status of Women in India In the past, women were cated and modernized hustreated as mere slaves. As bands want to see their they belong to the weaker wives confined within the sex, men used to keep them four walls. under thumb. They were denied freedom. They were The noble professions of kept like dumb cattle within the outside world are conthe four walls of the house. sidered to be of no concern Indeed, they had no rights. to them. Their husbands, Their most sacred duty was they may be good or bad, to obey blindly. are their lords and gods.

Though the conditions in Those changes are bent h e eficial country which Manish Rajkoomar c o m e are fast changgraduing, yet women are still ally. Our country is changtreated, in some respects, in ing politically, economithe same old way. No one cally and socially, at a swift feels happy in the home at speed. The condition of the birth of a female child. women is also gradually Even an only daughter is changing. They have begun supposed to be a curse for to take their due place in the family. She is regarded free India as is evident from as a decree of lakhs of ru- the following facts. pees on the parents. Further, as a wife, she has always to In free India, women canobey her husband. "Theirs not be kept as sheer domesnot to reason why, theirs but tic servants. They have to to do and die." was the play their vital role in the motto for them. Even edu- development of the country.

Top 5 best bridal makeup tips Wedding is a special day for everyone's life. The bride always wants to make sure that nothing goes wrong on that very day and seek for bridal tips. She is going to cherish the rest of her life and ensure that she gets the best. Friends, arrangements and the functions are always part of the wedding but the most important part is the bridal make up. The bridal make up gets the most attention, not only for the prolonged photoshoot and the numerous guests but also for the feeling of looking best on the most special day of the life. Here are the Top 5 bridal tips that can ensure nothing goes wrong.

Use Moisturizer Use the moisturizer as the base of all the bridal makeup.

It should be applied before the foundation of the makeup. This would ensure that your skin glows and looks beautiful.

Also, it can be very helpful for the warmer weather as it can firm the makeup and it does not melt with heat. It is often seen that the makeup gets bloat due to high temperature and thus moisturizer can help you to avoid the problem.

Use Foundation There are lots of cosmetics available that can be applied on the face as part of the bridal makeup. However, that makeup may not remain for long time during the wedding function. Also, it can create bloats on the photos during the celebration and no bride would want that. The use of foundation can be very effective for that case and can ensure that all your makeup remains intact for longer period of time. This also helps you to glow your makeup.

Use Brush It is best to use a brush to apply the makeup. The use of fingers should be completely avoided in order to make the makeup more effective and highly risk free. There are lot of chances where the fingers can make rashes and other skin problems on the wedding day and that should not be desired.

The use of brush can help you to avoid all such issues.

Use Concealer The use of concealer can be extremely helpful for the bridal make ups as well. The bridal tips ensure that the concealer can be great for the facial makeups. However, you can also effectively use it for the eye liners and others. The best part of the concealer is that it holds your make up firm and it looks extremely natural.

Use Natural Products The best practice is to use natural products for the bridal makeup. The skin is very sensitive and the chemicals can harm your skin. There are chances that it can show the impact even immediately. To avoid that you can use the natural products that will help you to look beautiful and at the same time it should be safe.

However, even after all the tips, the most important and effective tip is to put a smile on the face and enjoy the best moment of your life.

That is why more and more girls are getting education.

No distinction is now made in matters of education be-

tween boys and girls. Education is bound to give them place of honour in society.

It is for the first time in

the history of our country that women have been given equal voting right with men.

It clearly means that women

will now take an active part in outside affairs also. Their voice will now be as forceful and important as that of men. No politician of leader can now afford to neglect, or oppose their rights. They are becoming equal partners in the making, or the dismissing, of a Government.

Hindu law has been changed and modified. Far reaching changes have been introduced in the Hindu Marriage Act. Women have been given right to divorce in certain cases. This is a very important change.

They have been given protection in other ways also against the cruelly of the husbands. Besides this, the Hindu Succession Act has given to the daughter the right to the property of her parents. These reforms have secured for women an honorable status in society.

Our constitution has given equal rights to women. No distinction has

been made on the basis of caste, religion or sex. Their rights have thus been safeguarded. Reservation for women in state assemblies, parliament and the upper house is apt to be enacted in near future.

Many a women has begun to occupy high position in the life of our country.

There are a number of lady minister and deputy ministers. A woman, late Mrs. Indira Gandhi was the Prime Minister of the country and a leader world stature. Besides this, women are taking to the profession increasing number. Today there are women who are competent police which direction the wind is blowing.

The observance of the international women's year in 1975, gave further impetus to the movement for the emancipation of women.

Attention has thus been focused on problems peculiar to women in India.

Also Indian girls bagged two beauty crowns in 1994.

Sushmita Sen won the Miss Universe title and Aiswarya Rai bagged the Miss World crown. This unique double success on the world's beauty stage earned a healthier respect for India as a whole, because these contests of late have become as much tests of the contestant's brains, outlook and presence of mind as of mere physical beauty.

From the above account it is evident, that the place of women in free India is becoming more and more secure with the change of times. She can no longer be dominated and driven like dumb cattle by man. She is on the march. She is now an equal partner in her family.

Her future is bright.

5 ways to preserve fruits or vegetables other than canning, freezing, or drying charcuterie.

Canning, freezing, and drying are popular home preservation methods today.

In the past, people preserved food because they didn't have any other choice.

In times of pestilence, war, famine, tsunamis, and earthquakes, people wanted to make sure they had some food 'put by.' Unlike today, they lacked a year-round supply of fresh food and mechanical refrigeration.

But preservation methods go well beyond freezing or drying food in an electric appliance, or canning it with special equipment.

Here are 5 different ways you can preserve local produce for use throughout the year. Most are easier and less expensive than the more modern methods of canning and freezing: 1. Quickly pickle vegetables by soaking in an acidic liquid. The simplest way you can pickle vegetables is to immerse slices or chunks in an acidic liquid such as vinegar, lemon juice, or whey. Other mildly acidic ingredients that you can use for pickling, include pomegranate juice, verjuice (underripe grape juice), soy sauce, and miso. Acid-pickled foods are a great alternative to fresh salads and can add a lot of interest to your meals. Think of them as crunchy, mouthwatering fast food.

4. Macerate fruits with alcohol. Macerating fruits in alcohol is a form of pickling that is very common in cultures throughout Eastern Europe. It is an easy process that you can do at home with fresh fruit and vodka. You can add spices to the soaking liquid and use other types of liquor (such as rum or brandy), as long as it is at least 80 proof. Brandied or maraschino cherries are common examples of macerated fruits, and the resulting fruited liquor is a delicious beginning or end to any meal.

2. Ferment fruits or vegetables into wine or vinegar.

When you have a bumper crop of fruits or vegetables, that's the time to make wine or vinegar. Ferment almost any type of fresh or dried fruit to make a delicious "country" wine. Popular fruit choices include pears, peaches, or plums, and vegetables with a sweet nature, such as beets, carrots, corn, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, or winter squash. Reclaim fruit and vegetable peels before you discard them in the compost bin and use them to make vinegar. Exploit apple peelings left over af-

ter making applesauce, as well as orange peels, pineapple peels, and potato peels. Wine or vinegar making is also a good method to make use of culls, seconds, overripe, or fallen fruit. Just make sure that any of the produce you use is free of any mold, trimmed of any bruises, and thoroughly washed.

3. Pickle or ferment vegetables with dry salt. Easy, practical, and inexpensive, you can use dry salt either to pickle or ferment a wide variety of vegetables. High salt concentration prevents fermentation to preserve

vegetables in a near-fresh state. Use this method for cauliflower, cooking greens (spinach, kale, chard), shelled peas, and string beans. People familiar with this method consider drysalted vegetables to be far superior in taste and texture to canned or frozen ones. In contrast, using a low salt concentration causes the vegetables to ferment and make products like sauerkraut or kimchi from cabbage. The sauerkraut method also works on turnips, rutabagas, and kohlrabies, for delicious wintertime sandwich and burger toppings or garnish for

5. 'Cellar' root vegetables.

Cellaring is any form of storage that holds food in optimum condition for an extended period. Today's modern "root cellar" is the refrigerator. However, a cold food cellar can be accomplished by using something as simple as a cool basement closet or fashioned using a clean metal or plastic, food-safe container that is partially buried in the ground. Root crops are the ideal cold cellar inhabitant, such as beets, carrots, turnips, and parsnips. Use these vegetables throughout winter as a roasted side dish, shredded for latkes, simmered in soups and stews, or baked into muffins and breads.

India's 3 most successful female entrepreneurs 1. Indra Nooyi Current position: CFO, Pepsico Indra Nooyi,56, is the current chairman and CFO of the second largest food and beverage business, PepsiCo. Born in Chennai, Indra did her Bachelor's in Science from Madras Christian College in 1974 and a Post Graduate Diploma in Management (MBA) from Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta in 1976.

Beginning her career in India, Nooyi held product manager positions at Johnson & Johnson and textile firm Mettur Beardsell. Nooyi joined PepsiCo in 1994 and was named president and CFO in 2001.

She has been conferred with prestigious Padma Bhushan for her business achievements and being an inspiration to India's corporate leadership.

General Manager & Country Head HSBC,India Naina Lal Kidwai,55, is presently the Group General Manager and Country Head of HSBC India.

Naina has a Bachelor's degree in Economics from Delhi university and an MBA from Harvard Business school. In fact, Kidwai was the first Indian woman to graduate from Harvard Business School.

She started her career with ANZ Grindlays . Presently, she is also serving as a non-executive director on the board of Nestle SA. Kidwai is also global advisor at Harvard Business school.

Indian government conferred Padma Shri award on Naina for her contributions in the field of Trade and Industry.

2. Naina Lal Kidwai Current position: Group

Current position: CMD, Biocon

3. Kiran Mazumdar Shaw

Kiran,59, is the founder Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Biocon Limited.

Born in Bangalore, Shaw completed her Bachelors in Zoology from Mount Carmel College, Bangalore University. She later did her post-graduation in Malting and Brewing from Ballarat College, Melbourne University.

She worked as a trainee brewer in Carlton and United Breweries, Melbourne and as a trainee maltster at Barrett Brothers and Burston, Australia.

She started Biocon in 1978 and spearheaded its evolution from an industrial enzymes manufacturing company to a fully integrated bio-pharmaceutical company.

Today Biocon under Shaw's leadership has established itself as a leading player in biomedicine research with a focus on diabetes and oncology.

Kiran is also a member of the board of governors of

the prestigious Indian School of Business and Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad.

Kiran received the prestigious Padma Shri (1989) and the Padma Bhushan (2005) from the government of India.

4. Chanda Kochar Current position: MD & CEO - ICICI Bank Chanda Kochar, 51, is currently the MD & CEO of india's largest private bank ICICI Bank.

Rajasthan born chanda got Masters Degree in Management Studies from Jamnalal Bajaj Institute of Management Studies, Mumbai. She received the Wockhardt Gold Medal for Excellence in Management Studies as well as the J. N. Bose Gold Medal in Cost Accountancy.

Chanda Kochhar is married to Deepak Kochhar, a wind energy entrepreneur and her Business schoolmate.

5. Indu Jain

Designation - Chairperson (former), Times Group Indu Jain,76, used to be the chairperson of India's largest and most powerful media house - The Times Group.

A strong votary of women's rights and women entrepreneurship, Indu contributed immensely to the growth of Times group. Now, her two sons Samir and Vineet are running the company.

Indu Jain is also founder President of the Ladies wing of FICCI (FLO).

Indu is also the Chairperson of the Bharatiya Jnanpith Trust, which awards India's most prestigious and highest literary award, the Jnanpith award.

She addressed the United Nations in 2000 at the Millennium World Peace Summit of Religious and Spiritual Leaders, a speech in which she stressed the need for oneness among faiths and went on to chair a special session of the conference.

Is Equal Pay for Women Fair?

Aatish Palekar In recent times women have come out of the four walls of their homes and sought suitable careers for themselves. Today, we find that women are working in practically every field of life. There are women doctors, professors, writers, journalists, judges, lawyers, typists and even police women. Women have also entered the military officers in general. In games and sports they have own many laurels. P.T. Usha made sports history through her thrilling performance in the Olympics in Los Angeles, California. They have invaded even the world of politics and have risen to the highest position in their respective countries, Margret Thatcher of England, Late Mrs. Indira Gandhi of India, Mrs. Bandaranaike of Ceylon, and the current president Pratibha Devisingh Patil, are only a few examples.

Women today are holding highest position in a number of countries of the world.

The performance of women in every field has been really creditable, and they have outshone man in spheres, which were supposed traditionally to be his exclusive privilege. Still the prejudice against women persists. It is still said that women are inferior to men, both physically and mentally, that they cannot put in as much work as men can do, hence they should be given less pay than their men folk. Nothing can be more unjust, wrong and unfair. Those who expressed such a view - and their numbers are not small - turn a blind eye to the manifold achievements of womanhood. Such a view is entirely contrary to facts.

Women have convincingly demonstrated their capacities and abilities and to deny them the same pay is given to men is immoral, unjust and unfair. Justice must be done to them; age-old prejudices must be shed and women must be paid equal pay with their men folk.

To deny women equal pay is not unjust and immoral, it is also entirely on constitutional. Indian constitution expressly provides that there should no discrimination on the basis of sex, religion, caste or race.

All citizens of India ere equal in the eyes of law and any discrimination between one citizen and another is illegal and criminal.

Women are rightful and lawful citizen of India. They also enjoy the same fundamental right as men do.

They, therefore, fundamentally and constitutionally speaking should get the same right as men do.

Therefore, equal pay for women is just. In the modern times, most of the work is done by machines.

Women technicians, engineers, pilots and women workers, working with computers and other machines, have proved themselves more effective.

Therefore, they must get the same pay as men. To deny them equal pay is worst form of exploitation.

The view that women should not be given equal pay is discriminatory, unenlightened and prejudiced. It is an expression of the oldage exploitation to which women have been subjected in the modern world. In the modern democratic world, "equal pay for equal work", is a recognized principle. To pay women less is extremely cruel and unprincipled. If at all, women should be paid more, for they have also to do domestic work in addition to the work they have to do in their jobs and which they do much more sincerely than their male counterparts.

They have to do a number of household chores like cooking, cleaning utensils, sweeping, the house, mending clothes and also take care of children. A man's work is done as soon as he is out of office, but a women's work continues well into the night and it also begins much earlier next morning. Hence it would be more just and ethical to allow them a higher pay.

Our way of thinking, our attitude towards womanhood must undergo a radical change with the change of times. To allow them equal pay for equal work is merely a first step towards such a change. The question "is equal pay for women fair?" has no relevance in the modern context. It is entirely unjust and prejudiced.

cmyk

cmyk

DIBRUGARH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25

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Lengrijan Tea estate emerges champion Jhalukpara in trouble

Lingerijan Tea estate champion in the 13th Jintu Gogoi memorail football touranment. Pic - Manoj Pandey

Sports Reporter DIBRUGARH, DEC. 24: Lengrijan Tea estate, Naharkatia defeated Moran Town Football club 2-1 in the final of the 13th Jintu Gogoi veer Chakra, Memorial Football Tournament organized by Dao Division army in association with Dibrugarh District Sports Association at Chowkidinghee field here today.

Moran Town FC opened

the floodgate through Sakirul Ali in the 12th minute. Ram Gorh of Lengrijan Tea estate equalized the goal in the 27th minute. Dipok Garh scored the second salvo for Lengerijan in the 65th minute.

Shankar Karmakar of Lengerijan was adjudged best goalkeeper of the tournament while Siba Baruah was given best player of the tournament.

Santosh Chetia of Moran

Town FC was adjudged man of the match.

GOC, Dao Division, Commander, Laipuli Brigade and Honorary Flying Officer TR Gogoi (Retd) were present and gave away cash prize of Rs 75,000/-, Gold Medals & Winner's Trophy to the Champion team of 2016, a cash prize of Rs 50,000/-, Silver Medals and a Runners Up Trophy to the Runners Up team, a cash prize of Rs

30,000/- & Bronze Medals to the 2nd Runner up team and a consolation cash prize of Rs 5,000/to each team secured 4th position to 16th position.

The closing ceremony was attended by large number of senior Military and Civil officials.

The tournament was designed to promote the spirit of 'Good will' amongst the local population and also to encourage sports. Over the past few

years it has evolved as an ideal platform to encourage the youth of Assam to showcase their talent and fervor for the game.

The tournament thus not only patronises the sporting talent in Assam but also propagates the universal messages of 'Peace and Harmony through Sports'.

The event provided ample opportunity to the local teams to participate, perform, excel and showcase their latent. The tournament has received overwhelming response from local population which was clearly evident from the level of participation and enthusiasm exhibited by the participating teams.

The whole hearted participation of the local populace and civil administration during the entire duration of the tournament once again reflected the desire of people of Assam for peace and harmony. The success of the tournament has gone a long way to achieve the ultimate objective of Winning the Hearts and Minds of the people, identifying talent which can be further nurtured besides strengthening the bond with civil population.

IAAF chief Sebastian Coe wants athletics to be among top-four sports PTI New Delhi, Dec. 24: International Athletics Federation (IAAF) President Sebastian Coe feels the sport will rise from the unprecedented Russian doping crisis to be among the world's top-four alongside football, tennis and formula one in the next three years.

Coe, a double Olympic goldmedallist, said he is hopeful that the 15-point reforms agenda, which was accented to by the IAAF Special Congress this month, will help athletics get back the trust of clean athletes and the public after the doping scandal.

"The need to reform was much more on the basis of what the modern sport (athletics) required for the vision I have set. The vision is within the next three-four years, our sport should be the among the top four sports, not the top four Olympics sports," Coe, who took charge as IAAF chief in August last year, told PTI from London in a telephonic interview.

"As you know our challenge will be with football, tennis, formula one, that is the true competition, and our competition is not with swimming and gymnastics," he said.

Asked to review the past athletics season, Coe admitted that the Russian doping crisis which led to their track and field athletes being barred from competing in the Rio Olympics was the "underlying challenge of the year."

"It has been a tough year and also an important year for our sport. Obviously the highlights are the successful showing by athletes in Rio Olympics where athletics re-asserted as the number one Olympic sport. We had four world championships which were of extraordinarily high standard," said the 60-year-old Coe, who won a gold medal in 1500m in both 1980 and 1984 Olympics.

"But that does not mask us from the underlying challenge of the year, away from the competitive arena, which will need a long time to build the trust (of clean

President Sebastian Coe

athletes and public) and that process has started with the reforms we got accented by the Special Congress," he said.

A radical governance structure reforms package was passed by the IAAF in a Special Congress in Monaco this month, with 182 member federations voting for it out of 197 present.

The 15-point reforms package includes placing more governance power in the hands of the IAAF Executive Board, limiting the number of terms of office for President to three of four years each.

But Coe, who also served as the head of 2012 London Olympics Organising Committee, said there was no reduction in the powers enjoyed by the president even though there would be more checks and balances.

"It's not diminishing of power of president. It's just re-balancing. The problem was too much power was given to too few people without enough checks and balances. It's not really the president has less powers, it's that there are checks and balances to make sure the president for the very first time alongside the Chief Executive and General Secretary has a proper role and properly quantified set of responsibilities. But the member federations and ultimately the congress will be able to judge us," he explained.

Explaining the rationale behind the sweeping reforms, he said, "The issue we have to deal with is very clear to me. First of all, the constitution was outdated and not relevant enough for the circumstances the modern sport has to deal with. Secondly and preeminently, our governance structure was not strong enough."

Asked if he was disappointed at not getting Jamaica, an athletics power, on board, Coe, said, "I can't answer that question.

Frankly, you should ask those questions to the associations of these countries. I am very pleased that 95 per cent of the federations supported the reforms including India. I am very grateful for the great support of Adille Sumariwalla."

Jamaica and Ukraine were among the five member federations which abstained while 10 voted against the reforms package.

Coe also confirmed that track superstar Usain Bolt, who is set to end his illustrious career next year, has accepted to play a role in the sport after his retirement.

"I have had discussions with Usain that when he decides to retire I want him to play a role within the sport. I am conscious that when he (Usain) does retire there will be many calls

on him and his time. I wanted to make sure early on that some of Usain's time can be allocated to working with the IAAF and the sport of athletics. Usain has agreed he would like to do this."

Asked about athletics post Bolt, he said, "We need to make sure that the media, our partners, the fans, our supporters recognised that yes Usain Bolt is an outstanding, extraordinary talent but our sport has also other outstanding extraordinary talents, male and female, and we need to work even harder to make sure that we promote them in our sport.

"It is a great, global sport but we need to make it sure that there is awareness in the sporting population."

On the short-term targets he aims to achieve for the sport, Coe said, "I want to see IAAF being a world class organisation, to be service driven. We have the responsibility to try and support the ambitions of the 214 member federations and we need to make sure that we have the right delivery mechanism in place to be able to do that.

"We need to be an organisation which is accountable and robust. The primary focus of the IAAF is that trust is rebuilt with the athletes. This means that the toughest measures possible are taken against individuals and systems that call that into question.

"Tough decisions were taken by the IAAF Council

when faced with mountainous evidence about state sponsored doping in Russia. The IAAF Council's decision to suspend the Russian Athletics Federation and uphold that suspension was not an easy decision but one that gave confidence to athletes all over the world competing in international competitions.

"We must fight for clean athletes. It is our duty and our determination. We will continue to work with Russia to reinstate their athletes as soon as we have confidence in the measures that have been taken to protect them and other athletes."

He called upon the member federations to be innovation-driven to be able to attract more fans, especially younger ones, to the sport.

"Innovations will have to be a big part if any sport will have to grow. We introduced the world relays and in Portland (which hosted World Indoor Championships) we presented the medals not inside the stadium but outside it to attract people. We want to make the athletes the heroes and at the centre-stage," he said.

"We need to look at new formats and look for young people to come to our sport. The federations should be innovative. For example, in Australia there will be a new event next year called Nitro Athletics which has invited Usain Bolt. They will celebrate athletics but in a slightly differently format, with music and lighting. We need to do all these things to maintain interest in athletics to the young people particularly."

He said that the IAAF may look into the duration of World Championships (which London will host next year) as he feels that it's too long an event.

"We can look at how we deliver the World Championships and recognising its worth. May be nine or 10 days is too long for the World Championships to be staged."

Sports Reporter Dibrugarh, Dec 24: Jhalukpara Boys' Club were bundled out for 98 runs against Dibrugarh cricket Coaching centre in the first innings of the final match of two day Senior division cricket tournament organised by Dibrugarh District Sports Association at DDSA stadium here today.

Electing to bat first, JBC were bundled out for 98

in 26.1 overs. Harun Kazi scored 24 off 62 balls, hitting three boundaries while Wasim Ahmed contributed 14 off 46 deliveries with three fours. Monu Nirmal chipped in with 12 off 13 balls.

For DCCC, Sunil Lachit and Dipen Gogoi picked up three wickets each by giving away 12 and 26 runs respectively.

Ritesh Thakur and

Gunjan Jyoti Deka scalped two wickets each.

DCCC were 43 for four in 21 overs at stumps.

Debanjan Tinsingha scored 18 off 38 balls, hitting two boundaries.

Dipen Gogoi and Dipu Chetri remained unbeaten on 12 and 2 runs respectively.

Sandeep Sharma took three wickets for Jhalukpara.

Virat, Jaggi hit 50s; jharkhand reach 228-3 against Haryana PTI Vadodara, Dec. 24: Virat Singh (81) and Ishank Jaggi (77) slammed unbeaten fifties as Jharkhand reached 228-3 in their second innings after dismissing Haryana for 258 on the second day of the Ranji Trophy quarterfinal match here today.

Virat blasted 10 boundaries and a six in his 240ball innings, while Jaggi hit 11 fours in his 149-ball stay at the Moti Bagh Stadium here.

At stumps, Jharkhand were trailing by 30 runs with seven wickets in hand with two more days to go.

For Haryana, Harshal Patel (1/24), Yuzvendra

Chahal (1/67) and Amit Mishra (1/62) were among wickets.

Resuming at 251-7, Haryana's first innings folded for 258 in 95.3 overs with S Nadeem returning with a sevenwicket haul, which included the wickets of overnight batsmen Sanjay Pahal (39) and Harshal Patel (22) this morning.

In reply to Haryana's first innings total, Jharkhand were dealt an early blow when opener Anand Singh was caught and bowled by Chahal in the 4th over.

Sumit Kumar (19) and Virat then tried to steady the innings and added 37 runs before the opener was dismissed

by Mishra with wicketkeeper Nitin Saini doing a good work behind the stumps.

Skipper SS Tiwary (23) then joined Virat and the duo added another 36 runs when the lefthanded batsman was caught by Rajat Paliwal off Patel's bowling.

Virat and Jaggi then shared an unconquered 146-run stand to take the team close to the 250-mark.

Brief Scores Haryana 1st innings: 258 Jharkhand 1st innings: 228-3 in 82 overs (Virat Singh 81 not out; Harshal Patel 1/24).

New Zealand weigh workload worries ahead of ODI series

New Zealand weigh workload worries ahead of ODI series

AFP Christchurch , Dec. 24: New Zealand's desire for a confidence-boosting limited overs series against Bangladesh, starting on Monday, has been tempered by the need to ease the workloads of Tim Southee and Trent Boult.

From the high of winning a Test series against Pakistan in November the switch to the shorter game brought the New Zealanders sharply back to earth early this month when hammered 3-0 by Australia.

The three ODIs against Bangladesh, which begin in Christchurch on Boxing Day, offer a shot at redemption but coach Mike Hesson is wary about the possibility of burnout with home series against Australia and South Africa to follow.

"It's always a balancing act with guys that play all three forms, especially the bowlers," Hesson said Saturday, confirming Boult will sit out the last ODI, Southee will miss the three T20s that follow, and

other players may also be rested.

Following the Australia drubbing, New Zealand resisted the urge for wholesale changes but did recall veterans Neil Broom and Luke Ronchi.

Only six players remain from the squad of 15 who took New Zealand to the World Cup final last year and although the side is rebuilding, selector Gavin Larsen said "it's very important that we do see improvements during the home summer".

With Ross Taylor sidelined following eye surgery, and Test gloveman BJ Watling not performing as expected in Australia, the selectors are looking to the experienced 33-year-old Broom and Ronchi, 35, to shore up the side.

It is nearly seven years since Broom last played an ODI for New Zealand, but at domestic level "he has an impressive strike-rate and obviously fills the number four role with Ross out injured", Larsen said.

Ronchi, who did play in the 2015 World Cup, is

recalled after a string of low scores saw him dropped from the recent Australia series.

Bangladesh, at seven in the ODI rankings and three places below New Zealand, lost their rain-affected warm up game to a New Zealand XI by three wickets but did find inspiration in the performance of 21-year-old pace bowler Mustafizur Rahman.

Mustafizur took two wickets in his first competitive match in five months following shoulder surgery while allrounder Shakib Al Hasan chimed in with 3-41.

Test captain Mushfiqur Rahim also showed himself in form with the bat, scoring 45 off 41 deliveries while Soumya Sarkar added 40 to Bangladesh's 245-8 off 43 overs.

Following the first ODI in Christchurch on Monday, the second and third matches will be played in Nelson on December 29 and 31 with three T20s and two Tests to follow.

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Editor: Prahlad Hammey

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