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ASSENG/2015/64205

Vol. II

FEAST ON NATURAL FOOD FOR HEALTHY EYES

Issue 114

Dibrugarh, Thursday, November 10, 2016

10 things you never knew about being an air hostess

P7

Donald Trump wins: What it could mean for Pakistan?

HIGHLIGHTS Trump had once asked when Pakistan would apologise for sheltering Osama.

Barack Obama PM Modi calls Donald Trump congratulates to offer Donald Trump congratulations on being elected and set up as US President transition meeting

Some in Pakistan feel Trump has US President will embolden ISIS in Pakistan who will have a new war cry because of the billionaire's anti Islam image.

A few like former President Musharraf have expressed hope of stability and peace.

The political future of the United States has ramifications for almost every country in the world. Nations around the globe have already begun weighing in on the pros and cons of Donald Trump's shock win in the US Elections. One prominent in the list is Pakistan - a nation that was once asked

by Trump to apologise for sheltering Osama Bin Laden.

eminent scholars and analysts of the country outlined that the billionaire as president, may adopt a hardline approach towards their country.

"A Trump presidency will certainly be disconcerting because of its potential unpredictability," said Mosharraf Zaidi, who is part of the Ali Ailaan campaign for education in Pakistan. "(However) Pakistani policy makers will face the same proIndia slant,

In an article published by Pakistan's Dawn, several

Contd. on Page 3

PTI Washington, Nov 9

New Delhi, Nov 9

New York, Nov 9

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday congratulated Donald Trump on being elected as US President, saying he looks forward to working with him closely to take India-US ties to a new height.

"Congratulations @ realDonaldTrump on being elected as the 45th US President," Modi said in a tweet.

President Obama has called Donald Trump to offer his congratulations on the Republican's victory and set the ball rolling on a transition process that will hand power to the billionaire businessman in January.

Mr Obama also called Hillary Clinton to express his "admiration for the strong campaign she waged throughout the country", the White House said.

Contd. on Page 3

Contd. on Page 3

Price -

5.00

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Demonetisation will push India towards a cashless economy; India cannot afford to live with black money any longer: Jaitley ET Bureau New Delhi, Nov 9

Echoing his absolute support to Modi government's decision to demonetize Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has said that the move will “push the country towards a cashless economy”. He also attempted to reassure people that those who had lawful money would have nothing to fear. He reiterated that "India cannot afford to live with black money any longer. Honesty, integrity and ethical conduct are requirements of India's development," he said.

"This is a major setback to the parallel black money economy because a lot of currency operating outside the system will now have to be brought into the banking system... The government believes that this decision has been welcomed everywhere.

This major step with help India's credibility, " Jaitley said further."This one decision will change the way people spend and keep their money.

It will take India towards a

cashless economy, it doesn't merely push the country in that direction, but significantly pushes it," Jaitley added.He also reassured those who do not stash black money that they would not be affected. "Those who have lawful money have nothing to fear...

There is a sense of satisfaction among honest tax payers over what is happening," he declared.

Giving a strong word of caution to black money culprits, the minister added, “Those who did not disclose unaccounted wealth in the one-time opportunity offered last month will be ‘strictly penalised’.

“People who have not disclosed their wealth will be strictly penalised. We are taking steps to end black money in India.

The Prime Minister ’s decision will expand the size of the economy. ,” said Jaitley.

The government is looking at 2-3 weeks for complete replacement of high denomination of currency notes. “We are striving to make cash available in post offices, banks via RBI currency chests,” said Jaitley

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AITORMA AWARDS GIVEN AWAY, MARTINA CROWNED 'MISS AITORMA'

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Chief Minister Khandu Bank branches to remain open this welcomes Modi’s gamechanger; appeals Saturday, Sunday Delhi, Nov 9: Banks to people not to panic willNew remain open on coming ET Bureau, Itanagar, Nov 9

Chief Minister Pema Khandu has welcomed the historic and path breaking decision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to demonetize the currency notes of Rs.500 and Rs.1000 denominations from the midnight of 08th November, 2016.

In his congratulatory letter to the Prime Minister today, Khandu said that this revolutionary measure of his will have far reaching impact on the fight of the nation against evils of corruption, black money, counterfeit notes and terrorism.

“The people of Arunachal Pradesh whole heartedly welcome this decision and we are committed to support this effort” his letter added.

Khandu further informed that he had issued clear instructions on the steps mentioned therein, so that minimum inconvenience is caused to the common public.

“I shall personally monitor to ensure smooth transition towards a Swachh Bharat in the truest sense” he assured the Prime Minister.

Contd. on Page 3

Lakhimapur By Poll: CM “Arunachal Pradesh has been at the forefront of Rangia APSC fight against black money,' said BJP President member arrested; Sonowal addresses a huge Tapir Gao; lauds Modi’s demonetisation move alleges conspiracy election rally in Doomdooma Tapas Samaddar Rangia,Nov 9

Acting on a tip off, one of the APSC members, Samedur Rahman was arrested by a joint team of Tamulpur and Guwahati police led by SDPO Asif Ahmed and ASP Dibrugarh Panser singh in the wee hours today here from his own residence at the locality near NH 31. Arrested Rahman, one of the accused in the APSC recruitment scam, has been absconding since Nov 4 last after the APSC Chairman Rakesh Paul was arrested , and was declared as absconding one by the Assam poilce before he was arrested here. While, speaking to the media, accused Rahman termed his arrest as a “conspiracy of Rakesh Paul who linked him unnecessary in the scam”. “ I am innocent and no way involved in any irregularities as alleged”,Rahman asserted before he was taken by police from Rangia. It needs mentioning here that, the former’s PSO Mabud Ali chowdhury was also arrested few days back from the residence of Dr. Samedur Rahman. After interrogating the PSO police planned to trap

Dr. Rahman. The Tamulpur Police headed by SDPO Ahmed cordoned the residence of Dr Rahman since last night.

After make it sure about the presence of Dr. Rahman SDPO Tamulpur informed ASP Dibrugarh and ASP with a team of Guwahati Police rushed to the spot and arrested Dr Rahman. After arrest Dr. Rahman raised some allegation about the chairman Rakesh paul. Accoding to him Mr Paul made this conspiracy against him as he opposed the illegal activities of Paul. He also denied the relation between actress Nibir Shabnam. In this regards Dr. Rahman told that as APSC member different people from different walks of life came to meet him. So that actress Shabnam might meet him so’ it does not mean that he has personnel relation with that actress’ he remarked.

Police is interrogating hem at the office of 4th APbn Guwahati. Police today produced him before the CJM court Guwahati.

Different fronts have expressed their satisfaction over his arrest and have urged proper investigation and exemplary punishment as per law.

CM hails Modi’s surgical strike on black money, calls the move as a “deterrent against fake currency and corruption” A Staff Reporter Guwahati, 9 Nov

Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his decision of scrapping Rs. 1000 and Rs. 500 notes with immediate effect and said that the move will lead to an accelerated economic development of the Nation.

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In a statement here on Wednesday Sonowal said, “I welcome the bold decision taken by the Prime Minister in

demonetization of notes with Rs. 1000 and Rs. 500 denomination which will definitely a step towards making corruption free society.

Black money posed a serious threat to our society and the announcement on scrapping Rs. 1000 and Rs. 500 notes will not only eliminate the menace of black money, it will also act as a deterrent against fake currency and corruption”.

Contd. on Page 4

A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Nov 9

While welcoming the decision of PM Narendra Modi to de-monetise currency denominations of Rs 500 and Rs 1000, the state BJP lauded the surprise move aimed at eliminating the black money and counterfeit currency that has been bleeding the country and its economy.

Lakhimpur seat had fallen vacant following the election of the Chief Minister who had represented the constituency from Majuli assembly seat Manoj Kumar Ojha Doomdooma, Nov 9

Assam Chief Minister Sarbanand Sonowal addressed a huge election rally here in Doomdooma Town field in Tinsukia district of Upper Assam for the upcoming by election of 14 Lakhimpur Loksabha constituency.

Tinsukia is 500km from capital Guwahati.

Doomdooma is 24 km from its district headquarter.It is noteworthy that Lakhimpur seat had fallen vacant following the election of the Chief Minister who had represented the constituency from Majuli assembly seat in

May this year .

He was happy to see the largest gathering ever in Doomdooma and expressing happiness over the large gathering said that “the people’s overwhelming gathering is a testimony and assurance that the BJP MP candidate Pradan Barua is going to win from here” .

“The government wants peace, harmony and development." he added. He congratulated PM Modi for the decision to ban 500 and 1000 currency notes. He said that it is a lethal strike against corruption, black money and terrorism.

Minister Atul Bora and Himanta Biswa sarma also addressed the meeting.

Lohit Deputy Commissioner orders govt. and private vehicle operators not to overcharge A Staff Reporter Tezu, 9 Nov

Following reports that higher rates of transportation are being charged in Tezu to Digaru Ghat than the prescribed rates, Lohit Deputy Commissioner Danish Ashraf, has issued an executive order prohibiting all government as well as private commercial

vehicle operators from claiming any higher fares/ charges from any individual forthwith, under section 133 Cr PC. “If anyone is found not complying with this order, action will be initiated against him or her as per relevant sections of law”, the order reads.

'As an income tax exempted? tribal state as notified under IT Act, Arunachal Pradesh has been at the forefront of black money,' said BJP President

Tapir Gao while adding that the Modi led NDA government had given enough time to the currency hoarders.

Further he reiterated that this initiative of PM Modi would have a massive impact on rampant corruption within the system. Also, Gao said, 'Arunachal has been victim of illegal arms trade that prospered in the region.'

Stating that black money and counterfeit currency in the NE region in general and Arunachal in particular had triggered ?thriving illegal drug business that destroyed many young lives, state President

and former National General Secretary Gao claimed that de-monetising would have immediate and long term impact not only on overall economy but on over all health of society specially the youth.

He appealed the public to cooperate with the government and urged them to endure teething problem for the larger cause of rebuilding the Indian nation.

Endorsing the surprise clampdown by the union government, Gao said, 'This should silence the critics who thought Modiji has gone soft on black money.'

Tibet Support Group of Arunachal Pradesh urges Government of India to confer Bharat Ratna to Dalai Lama A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Nov 9

Tibet Support Group of Arunachal Pradesh (TSGAP) held a meeting at today under the Chairmanship of its President Mr. Gicho Kabak.

Members present in the meeting welcome and appreciated former Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister and present Member of Parliament of BJP Shri Shanta Kumar who urged the Government of India to confer highest civilian award the Bharat Ratna to His Holiness the Dalai Lama at Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh recently.

Tibet Support Group of

Arunachal Pradesh (TSGAP) also strongly appealed Government of India to confer the prestigious Bharat Ratna Award to His Holiness Dalai Lama in recognition of his great services to India and the humanity who also won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989. It would be a great example of India’s faith on Tibet. The Tibet Support Group of Arunachal Pradesh (TSGAP) unanimously adopted the resolution to meet Prime Minister of India shortly in this regards. Mr. Anok Wangsa and Tanyong Tatak both former Minister who are also Secretary General and Vice-President of Tibet Support Group of

Arunachal Pradesh addressed the meeting.

Meanwhile Mr. Nima Sange Secretary of Tibet Support Group of Arunachal Pradesh (TSGAP) met Mr. Karma Yeshi Minister of Finance and Ms. Dhardon Sharling Secretary Department of Information & International Relations of Tibetan Govt-in-Exile at Dharamsala, Himachal Pradesh recently who conveyed the message of Tibet Support Group of Arunachal Pradesh’s on extending of solidarity and support for Tibetan cause till their goal is achieved.

CS holds press conference to spread awareness about Demonetisation move A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Nov 9

The Chief Secretary of Arunachal Pradesh Shakuntala Gamlin convened a press conference in the Chief Secretary’s Conference hall on Wednesday. She told the media persons that they

should create awareness among the people on the scenario of financial transaction in the aftermath of Union Government’s drastic action to ban Rs 500 and Rs 1000 denominations.

The press conference comes close on the heels of the PM’s Modi announcement to ban on

PAGE 12

the circulation of Rs 500 and Rs 1000. She said that some relaxation had been made in places like hospitals, graveyards, market areas where the farmers sell their produces.

Contd. on Page 3

Saturday and Sunday to deal with the rush of people expected to queue up at branches to exchange nowinvalid currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000. For public convenience, banks will remain open on coming Saturday and Sunday, Economic Affairs Secretary Shaktikanta Das tweeted. As per the normal schedule, the coming Saturday being the second would have been a holiday, but keeping in view the expected rush at the branches, it was decided otherwise. There are about 149 scheduled commercial banks, including 56 regional rural banks, with branch network of about 1.30 lakh across the country. Besides, the co-operative banks have also been asked to take deposit and exchange the old with the new one. It is, however, not clear whether post offices would be open or not on the weekend. There are about 1.25 lakh post offices across the country. At the same time, the government and RBI are yet to take a call on keeping banks open on Monday, November 14, which is a holiday.

"In order to meet the anticipated heavy demand from members of the public to conduct their banking transactions, it has been decided that banks shall remain open for public transactions on Saturday, November 12, and Sunday, November 13, 2016," RBI said in a statement. In a surprise move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi last night announced demonetization of Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes with effect from Wednesday to fight the menace of black money, fake currency, corruption and terror financing. Banks are advised to keep all their branches open on November 12 and 13, 2016, as regular working days for transacting all business, it said. RBI also asked banks to give due publicity to the availability of banking services on these days. (PTI)

CCPDA requests customers to pay or fill up fuel amounting to minimum of Rs 500 or Rs 1000 Itanagar, 9 Nov: Owing to a sudden spike in traffic at petrol depots in ItanagarCapital Complex areas, the Capital Complex Petroleum Depot Association (CCPDA) has requested all customers to either pay in change or fill up fuel amounting to minimum of Rs 500 or Rs 1000 or in multiples. This decision was taken due to extreme shortage of change in denominations.

The CCPDA also denied any rumours of fuel shortage in the immediate future.

Industries and Commerce Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary condoles the demise of Shiva Acharya Dispur, Nov 9: Industries and Commerce Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary has condoled the demise of Sanskrit scholar Shiva Acharya of Gomiri, Gohpur of Biswanath district. The minister said that Shiva Acharya’s demise is an irreparable loss to the society.

His contribution for academic and cultural enrichment of the state would be remembered by posterity. The Minister prayed for eternal peace of the soul and extended his heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family.

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DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10

P2 Kaziranga in news for wrong reasons

Kaziranga in news for wrong reasons

Golaghat, Nov 9: Kaziranga National Park (KNP) is again in the news, but for a wrong reason. The KNP authorities have failed to issue search warrants against the poachers during the past five years between January 1, 2010 and June 8, 2015, despite the num-

ber of poaching cases in the national park shooting up and the number of arrest of poachers also picking up. This is feared to weaken the locus standi of the KNP authorities against the poachers.

Again, the KNP authorities have not utilised an amount of around Rs

HOROSCOPE Aries

You may feel like the world is caving in on you in many ways today, Aries. It could be that you've recently dug your own little cave to crawl into and be safe from the outside world.

Realize that the deeper you dig in unstable terrain, the more unsteady the walls. If you aren't careful, it's likely to come crashing down on top of you.

Taurus

Remember that you can only remain in charge as long as the others around you support your personality and leadership abilities, Taurus.

Avoid mutiny by taking care of the people in your world instead of simply trying to run their lives. Gain respect with kind words and a sensitive attitude rather than by enforcing harsh rules and regulations that restrict and aggravate.

Gemini

There should be no doubt in your mind about which way to proceed, Gemini. Don't let selfdoubt sneak into the picture. Your mind is sensitive and alert, so trust it. Take the lead when you feel confident about a situation. Make sure to eat plenty of protein-rich foods. They'll help stabilize and bring you another step closer to the realization of your dreams.

Cancer

Leo

Virgo

Your rock-star attitude may be getting a bit old now, Cancer. People aren't going to continue to listen to your demands for attention. Every person in the world is special, so try not to act as if you're the only one who is.

Help a child assemble a new toy today or help a friend pick out a new shirt. Do something for others instead of always expecting things for yourself Your ship is finally coming into port after being out in rough seas for so long, Leo. It's time to dock the boat for a while. Relax and explore the area. There is nothing wrong with getting off your vessel for a while.

You may not even realize how much you've missed solid ground until now. Remember what it's like to be stable again.

You may still be on something of a high from the last couple weeks. You will definitely be tempted to let the good times continue to roll, Virgo. Think about ways you can keep them rolling while still maintaining good judgment.

Don't let things get too out of control today. It's important that you maintain a bit of stability at all times.

Libra

Communicate from a centered space today, Libra.

Fortunately, the nature of the day caters to your needs and desires. You shouldn't have to work too hard to get what you want. Things should come to you naturally. You may wonder why you got stressed out before over what now seem to be small issues. Consciously release the worry and concern that are still stored in your body.

Scorpio

Work toward achieving a better unity between you and the people around you, Scorpio. It could be that certain people in your circle of friends somehow feel alienated in one way or another. Perhaps they don't feel like they fit in with the rest of the group. Remind yourself and others that everyone is unique and that all should be equally accepted despite individual differences.

Sagittarius

Capricorn

You will feel much better about yourself if you get things done today, Sagittarius. Like a meal that tastes good but isn't necessarily good for you, you might enjoy this day by being lazy, but you won't feel so good when night comes and you realize that you haven't accomplished anything.

Use the day productively so you have a sense of fulfillment by tonight.

You might consider taking a rest today, Capricorn.

Like a sailboat on the ocean, you've been taxed lately by all the turbulence. The pressure on you has been tremendous. Think about pulling your sails to halfmast in order to take a break.

You may not be going as quickly as before, but you will find that this is exactly the rest you need in order to complete the voyage.

Aquarius

Pisces

Your thinking is apt to be quite clear and rational today, Aquarius. This is especially important, since others will be looking for your thoughts and opinions on a certain matter. People will know that they can get a straight and honest answer from you, so don't disappoint them. Think through each situation clearly before you offer your advice. You will find that it's worth the effort.

By being around negative and flip people, you might inadvertently pick up these habits. Be careful about your associates, Pisces, because you will find that others judge you according to the company you keep, especially if you start talking like them.

Make sure to maintain a respectful attitude and proper manners no matter who your company is.

41.40 crore released to the national park by the National Tiger Conservation (NTC) authorities in the 2015-16 financial year, under the centrallysponsored schemes (CSS). The amount is lying with the State Government as unspent amount.

The above information came to light from the replies given by the KNP authorities to the queries made by RTI-cum- conservation activist Rohit Choudhury in two separate RTI applications.

Choudhury asked for information on June 8, 2015 on the total number of search warrants issued by the KNP and Tiger Reserve authorities in the last five years since January 1, 2010 in regard to various poaching activities.

He also requested for information on the evidences collected and recorded in the presence of the accused persons in this regard and a copy of the notification of the State Government authorizing the assistant conservator of forest (ACF) to exercise powers under Section 50(8) (a) of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.

In their replies, the KNP authorities said no search

warrant was issued from the KNP authorities and there does not arise any question of recording the evidence in the presence of the accused persons.

The KNP authorities told Choudhury that the State Government had authorised all forest officers, not below the rank of the ACF, for the purpose of making investigation into any offence against any provision of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, through a notification issued on July 18, 2014.

In reply to the queries made by Choudhury through his October 3, 2016 application, the KNP authorities said that an amount of around Rs 41.40 crore, allocated by the NTCA under the CSS to the KNP Tiger Reserve for the financial year of 2015-16, has been lying with the State Government as unspent amount of the financial year.(Agencies)

Unabatted illegal act of destroying cultivable land being used by miscreants here for digging soil for commercial purpose from Nazirating RF area near Nazirating ghat under Doomdoma Division in Tinsukia District recently. The vehicle as seen during the act bears Registration no. AS06 8795 belonging to Nazirating area. Does this not show how government revenue gets leaked ?

Satra Mukti Sangram Samity Margherita Regional Committee and All Tai Ahom Students Union Margherita Regional Committee conduct torch light rally against Citizenship Amendment Bill

Mithun Baruah, Margherita, Nov 9: Satra Mukti Sangram Samity Margherita Regional Committee and All Tai Ahom Students Union Margherita Regional Committee on Council for Technical Tuesday took out a torch Education (AICTE). light rally against the revokA Digital Library was ing of the Citizenship also inaugurated at the Amendment Bill and To Centre by Prof. Alak start quickly start the NRC Buragohain. The in- update and to Deport all ilMigrants who came to house facility will help legal Assam after 25 March the students of the Cen- 1971.The activists of SMSS tre to get access to a var- and ATASU undertook the ied number of e- books torch light rally from North and journals.

Margherita Rangamancha Earlier, the chairperson and ended at Margherita of the Centre for Com- Town High School preputer Studies, Prof. mises where they shouted Surajit Borkotoky, wel- various slogans against the comed the guests and BJP led Government of Pappu Dutta Presiothers. Notably, the op- Assam. dent of SMSS Margherita erational software for the Regional Committee said Digital Library was de- that before the lok Sabha veloped by Pranjal Polls 2014 and Assembly Bhumji , a student of the Election of Assam 2016 Centre for Computer Bharatiya Janata Party leaders have shed crocodile Studies. tears to get votes from the People of Assam but after they were elected they have

Dibrugarh University inaugurates language lab A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Nov 8: A Language Lab with state-of-the-art facilities was inaugurated at the Centre for Computer Studies, Dibrugarh University, on Monday.

The Emeritus Professor of DU, Bhupati Das who inaugurated the facility, in his deliberation hoped that the Language Lab would work as a boon for the student community for upgrading their communication skills in English. Speaking further, Prof Das said that the Language Lab which was essentially a selflearning system, would also help the interna-

tional students of the university who belong to the non-English speaking countries.

Furthermore, the Language Lab has also been equipped with facilities for learning several other languages like Spanish, German, French and Chinese. Gracing the occasion, the Vice-Chancellor of Dibrugarh University, Prof.

Alak Kumar Buragohain, lauded the initiative of the Centre in setting up the facility which is a necessary requirement for the Centre in line with the guidelines of the All India

CPM stages protest against citizenship bill ET Bureau Jorhat, Nov 9: The CPM has opposed the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2016, and criticized both the governments at the Centre and the state for their failure to implement the Assam Accord. CPM activists on Tuesday staged a massive protest here and asked the government to withdraw the bill.

The bill, which was tabled in Parliament in August, seeks to grant citizenship to religious minorities from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan. It is now pending before the joint select

committee of Parliament.

Tamjidur Rahman, secretary of CPM's Jorhat district unit, said, "PM Modi is now trying to spread communal politics in the country by paving the way to grant citizenship to religious minorities from Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan. The PM has neglected the historic Assam Accord as the present bill clearly contradicts it. We want the government to withdraw it at the earliest." He added, "During his poll campaigns, Modi had threatened suspected Bangladeshi nationals to

leave the country after May 16, 2015. After he came to power, he failed to do anything. We condemn the failure of the PM to keep his promise." CPM activists staged a dharna in front of Jorhat deputy commissioner& #39;s office and also sent a memorandum to the PM and the chief minister. Their demands include checking price hike of essential commodities, implementing Food Security Act, taking steps for provincialization of venture schools and withdrawing the decision to hand over oil fields to private companies.

change and BJP original propaganda of Hinduism and Hindutva ideology have been shown. Pappu Dutta said that Historical Assam Accord was signed where it was declared that no foreigners can live at Assam after 24 March 1971 midnight but after the BJP led Government formed at Assam they have violated the Assam Accord and ready to give citizenship to Hindu Minority living in Bangladesh, Pakistan and Afghanistan at Assam. We will not allow it and shall continue our Agitation till than BJP led Government both at the Centre and State cancel the Citizenship Amendment Bill 2016 added Dutta. Meanwhile, Bikash Dasgupta noted communist thinker and writer of Margherita who was present at the Torch Rally said that after the formation of BJP led Government at Assam many strange steps were taken which are against the greater interest of Assamese Society and Assam Accord. “Assam

Government Education, Health and Education Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma who had given controversial comments few days ago should be sacked because Assam is a land of Srimanta Sankardev, Chaolung Chukafa,Azaan Pir Phakir, Lakhminath Bezbaruah, Hemanga Biswas, Ambikagiri Raichoudhury ,Dr Bhupen Hazarika,Jyoti Prasad Agarwalla and Bishnu Prasad Rabha who have given immense contribution for building the Greater Assamese Society but Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma who is an opportunist leader has no right to say that Hindu Minority of Bangladesh,Pakistan and Afghanistan will be given Citizenship in Assam and if BJP led Government Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sympathy towards the Hindu Minority people of Bangladesh than Prime Minister Narendra Modi can give citizenship to his homeland Gujarat but not at Assam”, said Bikash Dasgupta.

Activists of Border Security Force seized Hindu Yuva silver weighing 20.940 kgs Chatra Parishad A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Nov 9 : Troops of Border Security Force under Guwahati Frontier deployed in Coochbehar, seized silver weighing 20.940 kgs, yesterday, near the International Boundary in Cooch Behar district of West Bengal.

On specific input provided

by Border Security Force intelligence team of Cooch Behar Sector, West Bengal,at about 1745 hrs., troops of BOP Choudhuryhat seized 20.940 kgs Silver having an approximate value of Rs. 9,21,360/- from the border area. The consignment was being thrown over the bor-

der fencing when alert troops rushed to the area and seized the consignment, which was abandoned by the smugglers, who fled from the spot. The seized silver has been handed over to Customs Department for further disposal.

Besides, BSF troops of Guwahati Frontier seized 64 cattle heads, having an appx value of Rs. 2,48,560/ -, on the intervening night of 8/9 Nov 2016.

BSF troops are always alert to issue of trans-border crimes and illegal infiltration and are making all out efforts to prevent commission of illegal crimes.

Burns Effigy of Jamiat Chief Madan Bikul Bikash Gogoi Naharkatia, Nov.9: The Hindu Yuva Chatra Parishad today burnt the effigy of Jamiat Chief Madani at Naharkatia against his remark that he made that “there are no Bangladeshi in Assam and the Muslim people are facing harassment in the name of Bangladeshi”.

The protester burnt the effigy of Madani and shouted slogans against him.

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A newly constructed railway concrete barrier near Dibrugarh Railway Station collapsed on Wednesday. Pic. Manoj Pandey

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10

P3

ASBA announces dates of Chief Minister’s Sub-veteran and Veteran Badminton Tournament-2016 A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Nov 9: The Arunachal State Badminton Association (ASBA) today informed that the scheduled 3rd edition of the Chief Minister’s Subveteran and Veteran Badminton Tournament2016 shall be conducted from November 24 to 26 next at the MLA Cottage and Raj Bhawan Badminton Stadium.Also, Ambita Sonam, Tania Yasap and Penya Bagra have been unanimously selected as organising

chairman, secretary and solution leader respectively.All affiliated badminton clubs and association are expected to participate in the upcoming tournament.A player can take part in three events only. The entry forms are available at Raj Bhawan/MLA cottage badminton stadiums and last date of entry is November 22 till 4 pm. Further, the tournament will have eight events, which include 35+ for men and women singles, 35 plus

men’s and women’s doubles, 40 plus men and women singles, 40 plus men’s and women’s doubles, 45 plus men and women singles, 45+ men’s and women’s doubles, 50+ men and women singles, 50+ men and women doubles.

The ASBA also cautioned that after players send their entries and fail to participate, they will have to pay a fine of Rs 500 to the association.

Internal Quality Assurance Cell to organise one-day workshop on ‘Research and innovation Rono Hills, 9 Nov: The Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of Rajiv Gandhi University is organizing a one-day workshop with the theme ‘Research and innovation: A Catalyst for Growth of a University’ on November 11 at its Rono Hills campus.

With the research and innovation output becoming the benchmark for accessing the growth and

development of a university, the workshop focuses on building an ecosystem of research and to suggest globally valid solutions. The workshop aims at bringing together all stakeholders to address ways towards promoting research and innovation in the university environment. Vice-Chancellor of RGU, Professor Tamo Mibang will attend as chief guest, while Pro-

fessor Hiranya K Nath of Sam Houston State University, Texas, USA and Professor Arun Chattopadhyay from IIT Guwahati are scheduled to attend as guests of honour and will be delivering the key-note address.

“Faculty members, officers, research scholars and students of the university and host of invitees will be attending the workshop”, a release said.

CoSAAP decries decision on pension enhancement for ex-legislators Staff Reporter ITANAGAR, Nov 9: Confederation of Service Association of Arunachal Pradesh (CoSAAP) has reacted strongly to the decision taken

by Adhoc Committee of State Legislative Assembly which was formed to examine the grievances of Former Legislator’s Welfare Association (FLWA) for enhancing the pension amount of Ex MLAs from Rs 20,000 to Rs 100,000 and medical allowances from Rs 5000 to Rs 50,000.

Addressing the press persons at Press Club on Tuesday, CoSAAP President Pate Marik expressed disappointment that while the long felt demand of the state government employ-

ees was pushed aside considering the bye-election, the committee for Ex-MLAs have gone ahead and come up with a decision which shows the discriminatory approach of the constitution.

“The decision was taken while there is modal code of conduct imposed in the state for the bye election,” he said adding, “If the decision of the Adhoc committee is accepted, the state government will have to accept our demand as well.”

“If the model code of conduct works for us, why not for them?” he questioned the chief secretary.

Also criticizing on the pattern of the enhancement saying it

is more than 50 percent of the actual amount; President CoSAAP wanted to know on what basis the hikes were made.

“While the medical allowance of the government employees increased from Rs 300 to Rs 500 only in November last year, it has gone from Rs 5000 to Rs 50,000 for the former legislators, which is unacceptable.

Ours is a government which works only for classified people while depriving needy people,” he condemned.

“But if the decision has to be accepted by the state government, we demand that the hike is equal for everyone and not only the ex-legislators,” he demanded.

DySP rank job to late Kamdak’s wife Itanagar, Nov 9: State government has decided to give DySP rank job to Late DySP Bomto Kamdak’s wife as mark of respect to the brave soul. This was revealed

by Chief Minister Pema Khandu during the 44th Arunachal Pradesh Police Raising Day celebration at Police Training Centre, Banderdewa on Tuesday.

He informed that state government has framed a policy to recognize the selfless sacrifices made by brave police personnel in the line of their duties. Under the policy, an ex-gratia to the tune of Rs. 50 lakhs for all the police personnel irrespective of ranks who sacrifice his or her life while fighting any terrorist, criminals or underground elements shall be given to the next kith and kin and a suitable government job for next kith and kins of the martyr.

CM also gave a brief on institution of the State’s highest award namely Arunachal Ratna which carries a cash amount of Rs 1 lakh along with

Gold Medal and a roll of honour. Late Bomto Kamdak was the first recipient of the award posthumously.

He assured to enhance grant-in aid to APP welfare society from Rs 50 to Rs 100 per personnel per year and one time Grant-in-aid of Rs 70,00,000 for opening of the Subsidiary Canteen at various locations. Funds raised for APP Welfare Society is utilized for welfare loan such as medical treatment, marriage, education, accident benefits, retirement benefits etc. for the police personnel.

Addressing APP contingents, Khandu said, “As peace is the barometer to gauge the social maturity of any nation or state, a peaceful State is one of the most important criteria for uninterrupted development.” He announced that strengthening of police department would be one of the top most priorities of his government.

Khandu appreciated the immeasurable contribution of the state police

NEW DELHI, Nov 9: Union Panchayati Raj Minister Narendra Singh Tomar assured to strengthen three-tier Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) after learning about their dismal affairs from an All Arunachal Pradesh Panchayati Parishad (AAPPP) team led by its secretary general Sangha Tagik here today.

Tomar was shocked to known that though district planning committee (DPC) was constituted on 04.12.06 to decentralise planning in all districts but are headed by deputy com-

missioners, instead of Zilla Parishad chairpersons.

Thus, he immediately asked the panchayat secretary Jitendra Shankar Mathur to take up the issue with the GoAP to transfer the DPC chairmanship to Zilla Parishad chairperson forthwith as it violated Article 243ZD of Constitution of India.

Tagik, in a memorandum, on behalf of state’s 9,372 elected PRI leaders, urged the union minister to sanction Rs 200 crore for setting up of a tribal skill development & capacity building centre to skill the indigenous tribal

Contd. from Page 1

She said that there should be no rumour mongering and asked the people not to panic adding that adequate and elaborate security arrangements had been made in the banks premises, hospitals, post offices and other vulnerable places.

The Chief Secretary reiterated that no breach of law and order would be tolerated saying that the problem was only for a time being and that things would return to normalcy.

While

appreciating the initiative of Government of India, she asked the people to appreciate the problems arising out of the watershed decision.

The DGP Sandeep Goel who was also presence in the press conference assured that the State Police was fully prepared to face any eventuality.

Among others, Principal Secretary Home Satya Gopal, Secretary Tax and Excise B.M.Mishra, Special Secretary IPR Mitalee Namchoom and Director IPR Obang Tayeng were present.

PM Modi congratulates Donald Trump on being elected as US President Contd. from Page 1

He said the country looks forward to working closely with Trump to strengthen bilateral ties.

"We look forward to working with you closely to take IndiaUS bilateral ties to a new height," the Prime Minister said.

"We appreciate the friendship you have articulated towards India during your c a m p a i g n , @realDonaldTrump," he said.

Trump today beat seasoned politician Hillary Clinton in the knife-edge polls, defying the odds to become the 45th US President.

Meanwhile, Khandu has appealed the citizens of Arunachal to not to panic on the landmark decision of Prime Minister. He said that enough provisions and time have been given to deposit or

the CM. He further revealed that the state government has proposed for a state of art Police Training Academy in line of NEPA, Shillong to Union Ministry of Home Affairs and said that it has high hopes that the proposal would be considered positively. CM also pitched to upgrade the existing forensic science laboratory as proposed by the department.

Khandu shared that he was aware of the problems faced by the department and assured that their grievances would be looked into in phase wise manner.

He later inaugurated the exhibition stalls put up by the police department.

Also speaking on the occasion, Home Minister Kumar Waii revealed that he has done extensive research on Police department and is aware of the problems they are facing. He assured all out support to strengthen police department besides keeping in mind the welfare measures of its personnel.

“I am always with you

all,” Waii emphatically said and suggested that such police Raising Day event should be organised in larger public gathering so that people can see the beauty and strength of the discipline force of the state.

On the day, President’s Police medal for meritorious services of police officers and personnel and Home Minister’s medal were given away by the CM. Winners and runners up of CM’s Running Trophy (Football), Home Minister’s running trophy (Volley ball) and Director General of Police’s Running trophy for Marching Contingents were also given.

CM enhanced the cash prizes of the football, volleyball and March past running trophies.

Smart marchpast display, band display by VKV students, PT display by women contigents of APP, Commando drills, SDRF and Fire Fighters display were other major highlights of the day.

Union Minister assures to strengthen PRIs in state

CS holds press Chief Minister Khandu conference to spread welcomes Modi’s gamechanger; awareness about appeals to people not to panic exchange the old Government of India Demonetisation move currency notes of Rs. under the dynamic Contd. from Page 1

force in maintaining peace in the society and keeping the citizens out of harm’s way.

“With the active cooperation of the state police force personnel, the state government can ensure that there is peace in the state and any fringe elements attempting to disrupt shall be dealt with iron hand,” CM asserted.

While talking about welfare measures initiated by the state government for police department and its personnel, CM said that all women police station will be established in all the district headquarters with 401 posts while 2400 posts of police personnel would be shortly filled. Khandu said that the ration money and uniform allowances of police personnel is being enhanced and shall be directly credited to their accounts.

“In order to control crime and instill a sense of security in the twin capital city of Itanagar and Naharlagun, city surveillance system would be put in place,” informed

500 and Rs. 1000 denominations and every possible measures are being taken to ease the public inconvenience. “The bold and historic decision taken by

leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi is sure to have positive prospects and outcome in the days to come” CM asserted while seeking every citizen’s cooperation.

people of the state to tap the vast natural resources to join nation building mission, said the memroandum, signed by ZPCs Tagik (Kurung Kumey), Jowkhong Singpho (Changlang), Santung Lowang Yagsia (Tirap) and Yaman Bagra (West Siang).

Stressing the need for close cooperation between the Army and security forces with civilians as the state shares borders with three countries, they requested him to move the home and defence ministries for creating provision to exclusively recruit locals in

group ‘C’ and ‘D’ posts who would benefit from employment but serve as the bedrock of the Army and security forces.

They drew his attention that the PRIs functionaries face acute shortage of accommodation when they visit state capital and district HQs as the GoAP had announced on September 2 last Rs 150 crore and Rs 145 crore for state panchayat niwas and district panchayat bhawan respectively to accommodate only 20 persons but the projects still in cold storage need to be expedited.

Moreover, the 14th Fi-

nance Commission grants are directly released to the gram panchayats while other two tiers are sitting idle, though the masses have huge expectations from them. Thus, funds should be provided to backward blocks and district of NE states to take the idle two tiers at par with other states of India. Moreover, the DPC chairmanship vested with the deputy commissioners was solely responsible for haphazard district planning which should be streamlined immediately, the memorandum added.

BS&G Foundation Day observed Correspondent ROING, Nov 9: A total of 250 Scout/Guides and Cub/Bulbuls, along with 10 Unit Leaders participated in the Bharat Scouts/Guides Foundation Day 2016 at Government Middle School Roing here on Monday.

DTO Roing Somit Mena spoke about the importance of celebrating the day and emphasised on need of full cooperation from school authori-

ties in order to run Scout/Guide activities smoothly in the school level.

Scout Master of Govt. Secondary School Mayu PP Dhar highlighted the problems faced by the District Unit in carrying out it’s activities without a training center and the dire need of one in the district.

DDSE cum District Chief Commissioner BSG LDV Ego Doye and BEO cum District

Scout Commissioner Obang Langkam also participated in the programme. Doye encouraged and motivated the Scout/ Guides and Cub/Bulbuls to follow the principles and motto of the Scout Movement to become a true Scout/Guide and serve for the community development.

Dance and community song competitions were also held during the programme.

Donald Trump wins: What Barack Obama calls Donald it could mean for Pakistan?

Trump to offer congratulations and set up transition meeting Contd. from Page 1

The current President invited the new President-elect to meet him at the White House on Thursday to discuss the transition of power.

Mr Trump will be formally sworn in as the 45th president of the United States on 20 January.

Mr Obama had earlier called Mr Trump while he was speaking to his supporters in New York, and so the Presidentelect called him back after he left the stage.

Trump campaign manager Kellyanne Conway told NBC News the pair had a "great, thorough conversation" and "resolved to work together".

President Obama will make a public statement

outside the White House later on Wednesday in which he is expected to reflect on the election results and urge the US to unite after a bitter and divisive election campaign that saw Mr Trump pull off a shock upset against Hillary Clinton.

The President will then continue working on arrangements for Mr Trump taking office. The Obama Administration has been planning the presidential transition since the beginning of the year and will meet with the newly-elected President-elect and his team on Thursday to brief them on the plans The White House said: "Ensuring a smooth transition of power is one of the top priorities the President identified at

the beginning of the year and a meeting with the President-elect is the next step".

Mr Obama campaigned heavily for Mrs Clinton during the latter weeks of the campaign and repeatedly attacked her rival. He told a Cleveland rally: "Donald Trump's closing argument is 'what do you have to lose?' The answer is everything." ""This is a guy who spent all his time trying to convince everyone he was a global elite. … All he had time for is celebrities. And now suddenly he's acting like a populist. Come on, man."

The new President-elect, meanwhile, has previously described Mr Obama as "stupid" and a "failed leader".

(Agencies)

Contd. from Page 1

and the same surplus of expectations from the Pakistani military that have been the staple of US policy since 1992."

Lawyer Babar Sattar too highlighted the potential of having a highly unpredictable US President. "For those who think Clinton might be a hawk regarding Pakistan, just remember it's much preferable dealing with challenging policy than hate/bigotry," he tweeted. This 'hate/ bigotry' can also be a massive problem for Pakistan - a country struggling to deal with jihadists and terrorism on the domestic front.

"Trump's victory will be an enormous gift to a failing jihadist movement, that will have now have a renewed rallying cry," tweeted Ammar Rashid, an eminent political writer.

The sentiments were

echoed, actually amplified, earlier in the year when columnist Hamzah Rifaat wrote for southasianvoices.org that Pakistan may have to bear the brunt of Trump's Islamophobia. "What has perturbed the general public (in Pakistan) the most is Trump's Islamophobic and racist rhetoric, which has made him the subject of both criticism and fascination," he wrote as far back as in February of this year. "The worst part about Trump, however, is that his rhetoric could possibly embolden Islamic State sympathizers within Pakistan."

Others like former President Pervez Musharraf though, expressed optimism and said south-Asian tensions can be subsided

by Trump. "I hope he [Donald Trump] will focus keenly to bring peace and stability around the world and

demonstrate deliberate leadership in resolving the conflicts in the IndoPakistan subcontinent," he wrote in a Facebook post. "We must trust and work together to crush terrorism and eliminate extremism from a position of strength."

The future of USPakistan relations may then be a little uncertain currently but in the longterm, interests over individuals may decide the direction, as elaborated upon by Pakistani senator Mushahid Hussain.

"Whoever wins, Hillary or Trump, their policies towards Pakistan will be based on promoting their country's interests," he had told Pakistan's The News a day before the US elections. "It's not about individuals; it's about interests, instead of a naive approach banking on personality, rather than policy".

(With input from agencies)

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10

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Industries and Commerce Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary holds Industrialists’ Meet ET Bureau Dispur, Nov 9: Industries and Commerce Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary held an interactive session with various investors of Assam at a city hotel today.

This meeting was convened to assure the investors of full support, discuss their issues and address the problems and dispel their doubts and uncertainties.

Around 27 companies ranging from Asian Paints, Ajanta Pharma, Sun Pharma, Britannia Industries, Berger Paints, Dabur India, EMAMI, Hindustan Unilever, Havells, Asian Brahmaputra Hospital & Healthcare, Abdos Lamitubes Pvt. Ltd. etc participated in today’s in-

teractive meet. The accumulated investment of these 27 companies was worth Rs. 4,781 crore which would generate employment of over 5,000 people.

Addressing the gathering, Minister Patowary lauded the initiative of the investors to invest in Assam in spite of many misgivings regarding the state. ‘So, we treat you all as our guests, not as industrialists. Thus, it is our duty to extend all help and assistance for promotion of industrial growth in the state’, the Minister added.The meet also discussed issues relating to power availability, law & order, North East Indus-

trial and Investment Promotion Policy (NEIIPP), 2007, land registration and ‘mega status’ of projects etc.Minister Patowary added that the atmosphere is congenial for investment and called upon the investors to generate employment for the unemployed youth of the state. He said that, Nirmala Sitharaman, Minister of State for Commerce and Industry, in a recent communiqué stated that the Centre is formulating a new policy for the North-East after the suspension of NEIPP. Dispelling doubts of the industrialists, the Minister stated that the new state industrial policy, under

GST, would give a further boost to investors.

He said that with the dredging of the Brahmaputra, signing of MoU for enhancement of air connectivity, building of new highways, the state is well-poised for an industrial linkage to South East Asia. Principal Secretary, Industries and Commerce Department, Ravi Capoor, said that the Investment Cell would be further strengthened to facilitate industrialization in Assam.The meeting was attended by Commissioner, Industries and Commerce, Dr. KK Dwivedi, MD, AIDC, HK Sharma and MD, APDCL, Puru Gupta.

AsESG’s three-day convention on management and conservation of Asian elephants to kick off tomorrow A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Nov 9 : A convention of the Asian Elephant Specialist Group (), the IUCN (World Conservation Union) Species Survival Commission’s voluntary group of experts for the management and conservation of Asia's elephants, will get underway at Hotel Vivanta by Taj, Guwahati, Assam tomorrow.

The three-day convention (November 10 to 12) will be attended by representatives of 11 Asian elephant range countries as well as presenters and observers from ‘non-elephant’ countries like the United Kingdom and United States of America. Pramila Rani Brahma, Hon’bleMinister of Environment and Forests, Assam, will inaugu-

rate the convention on November 10. Also in attendance will be RK Srivastava, Inspector General and Director - Project Elephant; BS Bonal, Additional Director General (Wildlife), Government of India; Bikash Brahma, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden, Assam; Dr Simon Stuart, Advisor and former Chair of the IUCN Species Survival Commission; and Mr Vivek Menon, Chair of the AsESG and Executive Director and CEO, Wildlife Trust of India.

It is significant that India is hosting this AsESG convention to be held in nearly 14 years. The country is, after all, home to 60 percent of the world’s

Asian elephant population – an estimated 29,000 to 30,000 wild elephants (including over 5500 in the host state of Assam) and another 3400 to 3600 captive elephants. Despite being enshrined as figures of reverence in India’s cultural heritage, recognized indeed as the National Heritage Animal, and afforded the strictest level of protection under the country’s laws, India’s elephants are a besieged lot, their forests shrinking and being fragmented due to the resource requirements of a burgeoning human population. “This gathering of over 75 AsESG experts, will doubtless provide insights into and help formulate solutions to the complex issues that con-

front Asian elephants today, and which affect these magnificent creatures across all Asian range countries”, said AsESG Chair Vivek Menon.

Status reports on Asian elephants in the wild and in captivity, as well as discussions on framing Range Wide Action Plans for Asian elephants will likely take primacy on the convention’s agenda. The technical sessions will include presentations from each of the Asian elephant range countries present, and focused discussions on, among other subjects, population estimations and demographics, mitigation of human elephant conflict, captive elephant management, and health and emerging diseases.

NCHISF demands compensation within 14 November; threatens to call indefinite Rail Blockade if demands are not fulfilled Committee Bhaona all set to kick off ET Correspondent, Haflong, Nov 9:‘If the railway authority who assured us to pay all the necessary compensation within 30 days so, if our genuine demand is not fulfilled within 14th November of this month we will be compelled to call for indefinite Rail Blockade from 15th November 2016 until we received proper compensation which is our democratic right, and for this act the railway authority will be solely responsible for making false promises to us and the promises are yet to be fulfilled even after almost two years.’

This was disclosed by David Keivom and Paoneilun Chamgsan, President and General Secretary of N C Hills Indigenous Students Forum in a press meet held at its office premises on Wednesday.

They said constructions of New Railway line and National highway have affected more than 500 families within NC Hills district and an area of more than 300 hectares of paddy fields were completely destroyed. Even though the railway line is constructed for the benefit of the public, whereas in N.C Hills the construction of new BG line and NHAI badly affected and destroying many dwelling houses, schools, places of worship, approach roads Etc. The life stream of rivers is also dried up due to the excessive dumping of soil in the river.

In this light, The N.C Hills indigenous Students’ Fo-

Military cantonments in Assam face severe water crisis ET Bureau Guwahati, Nov 9: The military cantonm ents of Guwahati - Narangi and Basistha - are suffering from acute water crisisfor the last 72 hours, affecting more than 12,000 inhabitants in the areas, including the Basistha Military Hospital.

On being contacted, defence spokesperson Lt Col Suneet Newton said the water supply facility, which is being operated by the IOCL, has failed to supply the necessary water. On Tuesday, however, they have received about 10% of the total required water, he said. IOCL executive director Jogen Barpujari told media that the problem occurred as the Brahmaputra's main stream has dried up. "It's impossible for us to control the river's behaviour. The area around the pump house is now surrounded by sandbars. But we are considering long-term planning to sort it out," Barpujari said.

rum has approached the Railway authority several times for the last few years and many joint meeting are already held and in each meeting date for payment is always fixed but the railway authority never fulfill their promises. So, till today the railway authority shows no concern to solve the long problem face by the affected villagers. Whereas the NHAI authority has already paid compensation to few villages, but the majority affected villages have not received the compensation. The estimate of NHAI compensation is still not submitted by the N.C Hills revenue Department while the NHAI authority is waiting for the estimate for payment. If the Revenue department continues on delaying the payment process by not submitting the estimate to the NHAI authority, NCHISF will do everything possible against the Revenue Department which it feels necessary.

‘We also demand immediate action against HCC Company for poor progress in the repairing work of Jatinga-Silchar roads As-21. We demand that the HCC company to stop engaging the subcontractor who are little known contractors as the work are not progress and the material they used are substandard which we can never allowed. We also demand immediate action against Simplex for using substandard material as the road are already started to damage even

after a few days. As these two roads are vital roads for us if both HCC and simplex does not take this matters seriously to improve the material and stop engaging subcontractor we will once again take up agitation program against this two company for the interest of the public.The N.C Hills Indigenous Students Forum on 08th July 2016 have once again approached official of Railway Authority at Maligaon and submitted the memorandum to General Manager reminding him once again of the long pending grievances faced by the general public of N.C Hills District and to pay the necessary compensation to the affected villagers as per there promised on 2nd may 2015 that railway will pay all the compensation within 30 days. Again, As no progressive step were taken from the Railway Authority, the NCHISF issued Press release on the 5th of August 2016 that NCHISF shall go for an indefinite Railway blockade from 16th August 2016 if the concerned authority did not release a complete compensation within 15th August 2016.

In this regard, on 8th August 2016 Shri. R.P Jingar, Chief Engineer/C/I N.F Railway(Construction) Maligaon issued a letter (No. W/207/CON/LAND Complaint dated. 08/08/ 2016) to the Deputy Commissioner requesting him for immediate submission of necessary estimated bills for payment of compensations. The Deputy Commis-

sioner called a joint meeting on the 10th August 2016 at DC’s Conference Hall where it was decided that the railway authority will pay all the necessary compensation as per their early promised on 2nd may 2015 i.e. within 30 days after the received of proper estimate. The estimate bill was already submitted by the Revenue Dept. to the railway authority on 18th August 2016, as per their request. The joint meeting also decided to hold a review meeting after 20 days to review the progress made on payment of compensation to land owners, but till date even after repeated request to the concern authority no progressive steps can be seen to solve this genuine demand of the land Owners even though the railway authority admit that some damages are done by them. So, we have seen that the railway authority keep on change their promises and not fulfilling their promises.

Since the NHAI has already paid some of the affected villages it was the railway authority who assured us to pay all the necessary compensation within 30 days so, if our genuine demand is not fulfill within 14th November of this month we will be compel to call for indefinite Rail Blockade from 15th November 2016 until we received proper compensation which is our democratic right, and for this act the railway authority will be solely responsible for making false promise to us and not fulfill their promised even after almost two years.

265 families evicted from government land at Mayong Dalim Phukan Morigaon, Nov.9: Altogether 265 families who illegally encroached the government land at Hatimuria and Hilokhnda under Mayong Revenue Circle in Morigaon district were evicted by the administration today with all legal procedures.

Deputy Commissioner Morigaon Hemen Das

told this correspondent that joint eviction drive was carried on by the Morigaon and Darrang District Administrations in the Mayong area where the illegal occupants encroached the land for months together. Those illegal settlers coming from Darrang district from Char areas illegally settled in the Morigaon Darrang

border areas led to the resentment among the indigenous people. The eviction process was completed peace fully and evicted people departed to Gasbari Char in Darrang district, official source said. This has been the major eviction drive near Pobitora wildlife Sanctuary after the eviction of Kaziranga National Park.

tomorrow: 158 years’ historic traditional theatrical legacy continues

Dalim Phukan Morigaon, Nov.9: Committee Bhaona, historic mega traditional theatrical performances, held in every three years interval, synchronizing Sri Sri Krishna Ras festival at Charaibahi cultural complex in Morigaon district has completed 158 years of its existence. According to the organisers of Committee Bhaona, has been organising this mega event every three years since 1857--the year of the Sepoy Mutiny.

The elders of the Charaibahi area said that as the Queen Victoria of Great Britain came to India at the end of the Sepoy mutiny and declared some welfare measures for Indians, many people throughout

the country celebrated many functions with pomp and gaiety. In Morigaon district, the local people at Charaibahi arranged a mega festival namely Committee Bhaona during Sri Krishna Ras Yatra as a mark of respect of Her Majesty Queen Victoria in India. Thousands of people irrespective of caste, community or religions took part in this festival. In the first Committe Bhaona festival, the local people took resolution to observe the festival in every three years interval. Right from that year, the Committee Bhaona has been organised till today.The local people celebrated the festival performing Ankia Bhaona (One Act Play) of Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva

garding violation of norms by some cab drivers. Accordingly, we carried out the drive in the city," said Das. The licences of some drivers have been suspended for three months. If they are found guilty of the same offence for the second time, their licences will be cancelled.

Transport officials have also seized their vehicles. "We appeal to the passengers to be more alert. If they find such unruly drivers, they should

immediately inform the police or push the alert button.

We will take action immediately. Last night, we found one passenger drinking with the driver," added Das. Officials from the district transport office will hold talks with cab service providers soon. "It is high time that we inform the service providers so that they don't hand out permits without doing a background check of the drivers," he said.

The Committee Bhaona always speaks the unity and integrity of the different sections of the people as the different ethnic groups including

the tribal took part in this mega festival of Charaibahi Mouza in Morigaon district. This year, the 159th Committee Bhaona festival will be held from November 10 with programmes spanning across six days. Apart from theatrical performances at night, cultural programme, several seminars will also be held. On November 11, Union Railway Ministerfor State, Rajen Gohain will inaugurate the cultural rally while on November 12 , in the open meeting, State Education Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma will be the chief guest. The souvenir "KORONI" will be released by Dr Dhrubajyoti Bora, President Asom Sahitya Sabha.

2900 IMA members to Sanjay Ray and protest against NMC bill Kulapradip Bhagawati awarded journalism awards A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Nov 9 : Sanjay Ray and Kulapradip Bhagawati awarded journalism awards The Pabindra Nath Sarma Memorial Award for investigative reporting on human rights and the Kunjabala Devi Memorial Award for investigative reporting on women issues for the year 2014 have been awarded to Sanjay Ray of The Assam Tribune and Kulapradip Bhagawati of Dainik Agradoot respectively.The awards given in the memory of Late Pabindra Nath Sarma, freedom fighter

and advocate and his wife carries a cash amount of Rs. 30,000 each and a citation. The winner Sanjay Ray is a senior Staff Reporter of The Assam Tribune while Kulapradip Bhagawati is a Sub-editor of Dainik Agradoot.

The awards will be given away at a function to be held at Bisnu-Nirmala auditorium at Latashil (Uzanbazar) onNov ember 12 at 5 p.m., where Dr Udayon Misra will be the chief guest, while Dr Tilottoma Misra will be the guest of honour.

Dileep Chandan, Editor, Asam Bani will preside over the function.

In Assam, drive against Cong activist arrested unruly cab drivers

ET Bureau Guwahati, Nov 9: The Kamrup (Metro) district administration and the transport office have started a drive against unruly cab drivers following complaints from residents.

District transport officer (DTO) Gautam Das, who carried out a couple of drives across the city in the last few weeks, said they have nabbed 15 drivers for being drunk while driving. "We received complaints re-

and Madhavdeva at a stretch from five to six days. The unique feature of the Committee Bhaona is that altogether 26 teams of different villages staged their plays at a time and at the same place every night and there is no cacophony in the process.

In a big field, several pandals are being built and the plays are performed in harmony. The youths of several villages remained busy in rehearsal for months together and local artists prepared masks and other costumes for the actors of the Bhaonas.

Rangia, Nov 9: Congress activist Rajiv Khan alias Janti Khan has been arrested by Tamulpur police led by SDPO Asif Ahmed from his residence of Rangia mill Road on Wednesday morning.

He was being interrogated at Tamulpur police station and later produced before the Judicial Court of Nalbari. It is learnt that the bail was

granted by the court. According to the police one Jainal Ali of Rangia Chiknibari filed an FIR in the Tamulpur police station vide case no. 310/ 2016 u/s 406/420. It is alleged that Rajiv Khan maintained close relation with Bhhubaneswar Kalita MP Rajya Sava and the former APCC President who recommended PSO for Rajiv Khan.

ET Bureau Guwahati, Nov 9: Over 2,900 doctors belonging to the Assam branch of Indian Medical Association (IMA), along with their peers in rest of the country, will take part in a nationwide satyagraha on November 16 to voice their protest against the proposed National Medical Commission (NMC) draft bill. Members of IMA here will observe the satyagraha for two hours on November 16 but will not abstain from duty.

After this, they will submit a memorandum to the deputy commissioner.

Members of IMA's state branch said the proposed NMC bill in its present form was unjust and discriminatory. They added that as per the bill, only the chairman of NMC should be a doctor and rest of the directors can be from nonmecical background which is unacceptable. "Someone with a degree in public health or health research can be nominated to a board. So, one can have a person who has never studied medicine sit as the president of the

undergraduate or postgraduate medical education board of NMC. Similarly, a non-doctor could be president of the Board for Medical Registration and decide on what professional misconduct is or what and who should be allowed to register himself as a doctor," said Satyajit Borah, secretary of IMA's Assam branch. "There are many more controversial issues like the introduction of a National Licentiate Examination for medical graduates to allow them to practice medicine. It is quite unjust for the medical graduates after five and half years of vigorous learning and training," added Borah.

The members of the state branch said as per the proposed bill, ayurvedic and homeopathic practitioners will get registration in modern medicine through Schedule IV of NMC. They pointed out that this will affect patient care and safety. "We will give six weeks to the government to meet our demands or will be forced to take further course of action," added Borah.

CM hails Modi’s surgical strike on black money, calls the move as a “deterrent against fake currency and corruption” Contd. from Page 1

Hailing the decision of the Prime Minister Sonowal said that the decision has been taken in the larger interests of the people of the country which would also go against insurgency and other illegal trades being perpetrated against the interest of the Nation.

He moreover urged upon the people of the State ‘to exercise restraint’ as the move might cause initial inconveniences to the people. However, the decision has the potential of expediting the economic development of the country and will ensure economic wellbeing to all sections of the people, he added.

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10

REST OF

Aitorma Awards Given Away, Martina Crowned 'Miss Aitorma' Agartala, Nov 09: Five Aitorma Awards, each carrying a citation and Cash of 5000 were given away during the 3rd 'AitormaTer', the annual cultural festival of Aitorma, the Kokborok Magazine held at Rabindra Satabarshiki Bhawan.

Ampuiliyen Kaipeng, noted folk artist received the Sampari Award for Unknown legends of Tripura, The award, sponsored by Sampari Hukumu Bodol honors an elder who has made notable contribution in the field of culture yet has remained relatively unknown.

Ms. Basanti Debbarma, who despite severe handicap, weaves traditional garments was awarded the Ferrando Inspiration award sponsored by Ferrando Rehabilitation Centre Agartala.

Sourabhee Debbarma, who made the state of Tripura proud by winning the Indian Idol title was given the Jharna

Aitorma Awards Given Away, Martina Crowned 'Miss Aitorma'

Debbarma Memorial Award. The award, sponsored by Shri SaktiDebbarma, in memory of his wife, and honours a woman

achiever. JuhiliDebbarma, noted model from the state received the award on behalf of Sourabhee who was away in Kolkata.

Bishu Debbarma memorial

P5

NORTHEAST award for best Entrepreneur of the Year was given to Shri Bishram Debbarma, a noted entrepreneur who runs a business chain dealing in cultural items. The award is sponsored by Shri Rajubon Debbarma in memory of his departed father, a police officer.

Govinda Debbarma, a 3rd Semester student of Kokborok in Tripura University won the Angsla Indane Award for creative writing.

The Auxi award for best upcoming writer in Kokborok was given to Shri Paul Debbarma. The awards were given away

by Shri D.M. Jamatia, former Law Secretary, Government of Tripura who was the Chief Guest at the Aitorma function and

by Shri Chandra Kanta Murasing, noted poet and award winner.

In the much awaited Mr and Miss Aitorma contest, Miss Martina Charkhi Reang won the coveted Miss Aitorma title while Arabindu Debbarma won

the Mr Aitorma award.

The award sponsored by Oxygen Diagnostic Centre Agartala includes a citation, medal and cash of Rs. 10,000 each.

Nine schools took part in the Ramesh Debbarma Memorial Interschool Quiz contest. Saint Andre School Bodhjungnagar emerged winners while Don Bosco School Agartala were the runners up. The award which has a cash of Rs. 10,000 besides the rolling trophy is sponsored by Motom Debbarma and Pohor Debbarma, sons of Late Ramesh Debbarma a much acclaimed writer and translator.

The sponsors of 'Aitorma Ter' included, among others, Tripura Industrial Development Corporation, Tripura Natural Gas Company Ltd and ICA (TTAADC).

Music by Koloma and dances by Khathansa and Kherengbar troupes and other schools enthralled the audience. (Agencies)

Disquiet, fear stalk Agartala after Modi`s surgical strike Agartala, Nov 09: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's surgical strike on the monetary system through banning of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 denominations has cast a shadow of fear and tension among the rich unaccounted money holders all over Agartala and the district and subdivisional towns of Tripura . While most of the huge amounts of unaccounted black money holders in the town spent a sleepless night last night , the high earning doctors and advocates who always receive payments in cash from patients and clients are the most worried lot.

'There are many businessmen in Maharajganj Bazar

area who have stocks of more than one hundred crores each in cash which they will be hard put to account for have exchanged through banks and post offices ; the doctors and advocates among professions also face the same predicament because very few of them show their actual income while filing tax returns' a senior official of the income tax department said.

After the officially announced period will be over the income tax department will go on a spree of carrying out raids on suspected black money hoarders. Apat from this, entire process of people visiting banks and post

Lothas celebrate Tokhu Emong

NCP unit to field women Decision 'insensitive', says Mukul candidates for civic elections Dimapur, Nov 9:Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has decided to field women candidates in the state municipal elections in 2017 and state general elections in 2018, informed NCP national secretary-cum-spokesperson Narendra Verma on Tuesday.

In an interaction with media persons at Hotel Saramati, Verma said that women empowerment would be one of the agendas of NCP. He said that the party would study the prospective and give equal opportunity to women to contest in the municipal elections and state assembly elections.

Verma, who was here to look into the party matters after some senior leaders quit the party, said that the

party was optimistic of doing well in Nagaland and also in poll-bound Manipur.

On the number of candidates to contest, he said that discussions were going on as to how many candidates the party would put up in the next state assembly elections.

"The party will study the constituency and would put up as many candidates as possible," the national spokesperson said.

In the last state assembly elections in 2013, NCP contested in 16 seats and won in four constituencies. However, three of their MLA's namely, Dr. TM Lotha, Imtilemba Sangtam and Mmhonlumo Kikon, defected to BJP in 2014 and L Khumo joined NPF in

2015.

Also talking about development, Verma said, "the agenda of NCP is always development of the state and its people". The present NPF led DAN government has been in power for three consecutive terms but development in the state was negligible and it has also completely ignored basic necessities like road, water, electricity to the people, said Verma. "The roads are horrible. I have never seen such bad roads in the country," he remarked.

While stating that the party was not interested in "big talks," Verma said that the party will concentrate on providing basic facilities like road, water, electricity etc in the state. (Agencies)

Cong-ruled Meghalaya not a target, clarifies Union Min Shillong, Nov 9: Union Minister Sudarshan Bhagat on Tuesday denied reports claiming that the Centre threatened to stop fund allocation to the Horticulture Department because Meghalaya is a Congressruled state.

"There is nothing like that.

All states are equal for us and we want that the whole country should develop," the Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare told reporters here on Tuesday.

Bhagat reiterated that the Ministry would have no other option but to reduce allocation if the State does not issue utilisation certificates for the Central schemes under the Ministry of Agriculture. On Monday, Bhagat had said Meghalaya may have a reduced central budgetary allocation in the sector next year if it does not utilise around Rs 90 crore sanctioned fund for various horticulture schemes.

The Union Minister on Tuesday said in the last four years, Meghalaya could

utilize only 50 per cent of the Rs 212 crore sanctioned under the Horticulture Mission.

He added that the Ministry had sanctioned Rs 1.64 crore for animal rearing projects in Meghalaya and asked the government to expedite utilisation of central funds and schemes for the benefit of the State.

The Union Minister, who was on a two-day visit to Shillong, was also full of appreciation for the State Government for undertaking several projects under the Fishery Department saying Meghalaya has tremendous potential in this sector.

Meanwhile, the Under Secretary of the Agriculture Department clarified that the amount released by the Centre under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikash Yojana from 2007-2008 to 2016-17 was Rs 244.56 crore out of which Rs 234.83 crore was fully utilised till 2015-16.

The government further said the remaining amount of Rs 9.73 crore released for 2016-17 is under process of

implementation and that utilisation certificates for all releases since 2007-08 were submitted to the Centre and the latest utilisation certificate for 2015-16 was submitted on August 30, 2016.

The statement further said the central fund under Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture subscheme Horticulture for the North East and Himalayan States during the 12th Plan Period is Rs 127.35 crore of which Rs 114.60 crore has been fully utilised till date.

The remaining fund of Rs 12.75 crore recently released by the Centre is under process of implementation.

"During 2015-16 there was a late release of central funds owing to lack of clarity in the funding pattern that was earlier indicated by the Government of India as 50:50 (centralstate share) but subsequently was fixed at 90:10 after prolonged follow-up by the State Government," the statement added. (Agencies)

ANHTU to join Nov 15 phase-II protest Dimapur, Nov 9: To protest against non-payment of salaries for the last eight months, All Nagaland Hindi Teachers Union (ANHTU) Tuesday decided to join the proposed 2nd phase agitation called by aggrieved teachers on November 15. ANHTU therefore, urged the department and the state government to take necessary steps and

make arrangements. The union in a press statement by its information secretary Waisemba reminded state government that 1379 Hindu teachers appointed under CSS were included in the central budget for five years and another five years in the state budget and so on. In this regard, ANHTU argued that the state government

should not bring any confusion on the employees regarding the system. Further, ANHTU said that if central government has not sanctioned the salaries then it was the duty of the state government to make necessary arrangement for the aggrieved teachers as they were working in the state.

(Agencies)

Shiillong, Nov 9: The Centre's "sudden" decision on currency denominations, which it termed a surgical strike on black money, drew flak from several quarters on Tuesday.

Chief Minister Mukul Sangma criticised the Centre's decision to scrap Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes by calling it an "insensitive" move.

Reacting to it shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement, Sangma said, "What we do and how we do things are very important. It may be for the larger good, but the way they are doing things shows their bankruptcy of ideas in implementing this decision."

On the adverse impact of the decision on people living in remote areas, the chief minister said, "In this country of 1.25 billion people, how many are glued to the television set, social media or the internet? How will they know their Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes are invalid?

What will happen to patients in other towns or students who are travelling? Not everyone uses plastic money."

Sangma said the Centre could have implemented this decision without harassing people.

No logic in decision: UDP The UDP also reacted similarly to the Centre's decision that it found was "illogical". In a statement issued here on Tuesday, UDP working president Bindo Lanong said, "There is no logic in the Prime Minister's decision. The government is unable to take on the criminals who have black money and instead it is targeting villagers and the poor, who have to face the problems arising out of the sudden decision."

He further said, "The government has failed to strategise the right approach to punish the criminals with black money. Now, why should the poor suffer for this?"

Meanwhile, the chief minister also predicted possible law and order problems if shopkeepers refuse to accept the invalid notes from those who either do not know about the decision or who do not have access to other denominations.

(Agencies)

Jiten for increase in tea production Agartala, Nov 09: Member of Parliament Jitendra Chowdhury inaugurated a district level programme to mark centenary celebration of tea industry in the state at Sabroom Town hall. Sabhadhipati of Dakshin Zilla Parisad Himangshu Roy, MLA Rita Kar Majumder, Chairperson of Sabroom Nagar Panchayat Ruma Majumder Basak and Addl DM Tamal Majumder remained preset in the programme. Speaking in the programme, the MP said tea industry is second largest employment generating sector in the country. "Labourers remained deprived even as the country export finished tea amounting to Rs. 4000 crore

annually. What is more worrying is that the country could not prepare a well designed policy for tea industry", he said.

Chowdhury said, "Tripura stands apart as far as welfare measures for tea labourers is concerned. Tea labourers are getting works under MGMREGA which is unusual in the country". Exhorting tea planters and tea labourers, Chowdhury also laid emphasis on high yield with using minimum space.

Himanshu Roy, in his speech, reiterated to explore the opportunities to use plots fall beyond barbed wire fencing along the border for tea plantation.

(Agencies)

Dr Bikash Roy to be conferred 'National Award for Child Welfare Activities' by president on Nov 14 Agartala, Nov 09: Dr Bikash Roy, a renowned child specialist of Tripura, will be awarded with 'National award for child welfare activities' by President Pranab Muhkerjee at Rastrapati Bhavan in New Delhi during the observance of Children's Day on November 14.

Dr Roy has had a long service career starting from Paediatrician up to Director of Health Services of Tripura government. Dr Roy also had written several books on child

health, care and their nutrition values.

Dr Bikash Roy has a vast experience on child health care including the base of a kid's psychology and physiology.

His analysis involves mode of parental care to grooming a kid.

Dr Roy had in the year 2008 been put up as a candidate for Krishna Nagar assembly constituency in Agartala by ruling CPI (M) in the assembly polls held that year but lost narrowly. (Agencies)

offices for exchanging money will be strictly monitored . Apart from this, the exemptions announced by the prime minster for continuing use of old notes of Rs 500 and 1000 are not working very well. 'I visted a petrol pump for purchasing five litres of petrol and mobil but the pump owner told me flatly that while he would keep the payment in Rs 500 donomination he would not be able to give smaller change like Rs 100 notes; I was in a soup' said S.K.Deb, an assistant professor in a local college. But he expressed the hope that the draconian measure would boost up the Indian economy in the long run.

(Agencies)

Commissioner of Police, Liremo Lotha addressing the gathering.

Dimapur, Nov 9: Tokhu Emong, the post harvest festival of the Lothas was celebrated with splendor and gaiety by the Lothas residing in Dimapur at State Stadium Dimapur on November 7.

Despite heavy rain, residents dressed in traditional attires joined in the celebration that was organized by the Lotha Hoho Dimapur.

Commissioner of Police, Liremo Lotha who graced the festival as chief guest stressed on the importance of preservation of traditional and cultural values of the forefathers, so that it could be passed to the coming generations.

He expressed his desire to work tirelessly and to put efforts in maintaining peaceful coexistence, stating that people should contribute towards the welfare of the Nagas as a whole. He further encouraged the youngsters to acquire the passion to compete with the best at all levels especially in the field of value education.

Former minister, Nkhao Lotha narrated the significance of Tokhu Emong.

Earlier, participants of Tokhu Emong festival

gathered at the venue accorded a warm reception to the chief guest and host of invitees and dignitaries from various Naga tribes including Rev. Fr. Thomas PJ, Parish Priest Holy Cross, Dimapur.

The celebration was marked by a variety of items including folk songs, modern Lotha song, greetings by the representative of Ao Union Dimapur and Western Sumi Hoho, Dimapur.

Wozhuro Range, Dimapur Warrior Troop stole the show by performing Shanthe/Sharu (war dance) dance.

Oldest man and woman from among the Lotha community residing at Dimapur namely Nganchio Kikon and Rasali Ngullie were honored with Tokhu presents.

Lotha Hoho Dimapur, chairman Etsungmomo Kikon delivered the presidential address and the function concluded with words of appreciation by vice chairman Lichio Kithan. The daylong celebration culminated with grand Tokhu Emong feast hosted by the Lotha Hoho Dimapur, Tokhu commit-

tee.

Tokhu Emong organizing Committee Convener expressed gratitude to the director, department of Youth Resources & Sports, District Sports Officer, Dimapur for the use of State Stadium Dimapur during the celebration.

Earlier, on November 6, the festival began with a first combined Sunday worship service of all Lothas residing at Dimapur cutting across denominational affiliations. The Sunday worship service was chaired by Yanbemo Ovung (associate pastor, Lotha Baptist Church, Dimapur), sermon was delivered by Rev. Thebemo Yanthan, pastor Lotha Assembly of God Church, Dimapur.

M. John Humtsoe, catechist Holy Trinity Catholic Church, Dimapur pronounced the invocation while the service concluded with a benediction

by Rev. Zanao Mozhui, pastor, Lotha Baptist Church, Dimapur. Folk Song competition was organized by the Lotha Eloe Ekhung Dimapur (LEED).

LH Phek Town: Lotha Hoho Phek (LHP) town celebrated its 46th Tokhu Emong festival on November 7 at the Lotha Baptist Church compound Phek town.

Tokhu programme was chaired by general secretary, LHP, O. Vanjamo Ngullie, invocation prayer by pastor Lotha Baptist Church Phek T. Mozhui and story of Tokhu Emong was narrated by Nyan Ngullie.

Vote of thanks was delivered by chairman LHP, Johnny Kithan. The programme witnessed folk dance, folk songs and other items during the day long celebration.

(Agencies)

CM refutes agri fund under-utilisation claims Shillong, Nov 9: Chief Minister Mukul Sangma on Tuesday repudiated the allegation that the State has utilised only Rs 34 crore out of Rs 244 crore sanctioned under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY).

Sangma said the total fund received over the years after RKVY was implemented in the State was Rs 244.56 crore and that the utilisation certificates were also furnished. He also said the funding pattern is determined by how much the State is investing in agriculture and allied sectors.

"In 2015-16, in respect to all the centrally sponsored schemes, since the Government of India was embarking on a new approach of modifying the whole funding pattern to 50:50, state governments in the North East took it up aggressively and prevailed upon GOI that this model is not workable," he said, adding, "If projects have to be implemented in the North East, the funding pattern has to be either 100 per cent for all those under 100 per cent

and 90:10 for all those under 90:10."

Highlighting the fallacies of central schemes, Sangma said the Government of India's "one size fits all" approach has done damage to the nation and that many schemes with same guidelines would not work as the challenges faced by states are dissimilar.

Though the 14th Finance Commission has increased direct transfer to states to 42 per cent from 32 per cent, yet the total transferable resources to states remain the same because indirect transfer comes down, he said, adding, "the total transfer to the states in the past by successive governments has been around 6465 per cent of the total resources available with the Union Government."

The Chief Minister criticised the Centre for putting the northeastern states and other resourcerich states, like Maharashtra and Gujarat, on the same platform.

"Maharashtra is also getting 42 per cent like NE

states. On the other hand, the special plan assistance (SPA) as received by the NE states has been withdrawn."

This, the Chief Minister said, would stall the 99 per cent growth momentum in the North East and so the SPA should be restored.

However, Sangma was all praise for the previous governments at the Centre "for their in-depth understanding of the problem of the NE".

On the meagre fund, he said, "The release of fund has been suddenly reduced for all NE states. Instead of Rs 262 crore entitlements, we have received only Rs 145.61 crore, a shortfall of Rs 116.45 crore in November," he said.

Expressing concern over the investment atmosphere as the Union Government has suspended the North East Investment Promotion Policy, 2007, he informed that he would take up the issues with his counterparts in the region.

(Agencies)

EDITORIAL

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10

Today's quote To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all.

“

Oscar Wilde

Waiting for Rahul With Rahul Gandhi and the Congress, it is difficult to say who needs the other more. Indeed, it is not clear whether the party is shielding him from the risk of electoral failure or whether it is looking to him for political leadership and guidance. In any case the seemingly never-ending wait for his ascension as the president of the party was not doing either him or the Congress any good. If the decision of the Congress Working Committee to ask Mr. Gandhi to take up the top post was a surprise, it was only in its timing. Ever since the Lok Sabha election of 2014, Mr. Gandhi was being prepared for this very job; also, his mother and Congress president, Sonia Gandhi, had not been keeping good health. But two factors stood in the way.

Members of the party's old guard were unsure of his leadership skills, or were apprehensive of being left out if the order changed. More important, Mr. Gandhi himself wanted time. He wanted to make sure he did not appear to be hankering after power and position, and he did not get blamed for electoral defeats that were, by any reckoning, inevitable. But just as the seniors in the party reconciled themselves to the changing times, Mr. Gandhi too seems to have become more responsive to the requirements of an organisation such as the Congress: that he would have to deal with the party as it is, and that he would not be able to readily mould it to the form he would like it to take.

Quite possibly, Mr. Gandhi would not have had a shot at becoming the party president were it not for his lineage. But the nature of the faction-ridden Congress is such that it needs a leader whose right to lead is not questioned at every step. Mr. Gandhi meets this requirement. While the fractious nature of the party grants him greater legitimacy as a leader, it also makes his task more difficult. At the CWC meeting, he expressed his willingness to take on the assigned role of party president to "fight for the preservation of the idea of India". This is a phrase that the Congress believes captures its engagement with the Bharatiya Janata Party. The Congress does have its place in India's political landscape, but it cannot afford to define itself solely as the antithesis of the BJP. Mr. Gandhi will have to take the plunge wholeheartedly, with a readiness to carry on the struggle for political change and economic development over the long term. He will have to be ready to get his hands dirty in the every- day politics of bringing about positive change, incremental or otherwise, whenever and wherever possible. There are no shortcuts. Taking blame and sharing credit are synonymous with assuming responsibility.

The long battle for Raqqa T he operation to recapture Raqqa in Syria launched by a U.S.-backed coalition of Kurdish and Arab fighters is bound to increase the military pressure on the Islamic State, which is already under attack in Mosul, its power centre in Iraq. The Raqqa offensive has long been on the cards. The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) finally moved their troops to the city's defence lines after getting weapons and the clearance from the U.S. As in the case of the battle for Mosul where the U.S. provides air cover to the Iraqi forces and Shia militias, in Raqqa it will provide assistance to the SDF. The U.S. strategy is to choke the IS from both sides, and its partners on the ground seem ready to take the high risk of attacking the group's strongest bases. Over the past year the Kurdish fighters have been consistently effective in ground battles against the IS. Most of the major territorial losses of the IS in Syria - be it Kobane, Tal Abyad or Manbij - were at the hands of the Kurds.

The jihadist group, which once had direct access to the Turkish border, has now retreated to its core in Syria, stretching from Raqqa to Deir Ezzour. Against this background, the SDF clearly has an upper hand.

The IS will also find it challenging to defend two of its most important cities at the same time. But that doesn't mean that the SDF will have an easy walk into Raqqa.

The SDF is certain to face strong resistance. Raqqa is one of the first cities the IS captured; it has in place a ferocious, ideologically charged and battle-ready team to build a strong defence. As the ongoing Mosul battle shows, breaching the IS defence lines will take time and also lives. Raqqa has a population of about 2.2 lakh. Major air-borne campaigns to help the SDF advance on the ground will be risky and could result in large civilian casualties. The IS also uses human shields to stop ground advances of enemies. But the most pressing challenge the SDF faces is the response from Turkey. Raqqa is a Sunni-populated town. Turkey is opposed to the SDF taking over Raqqa as a major constituent of the coalition is the Kurdish militia, the People's Protection Units (YPG). Turkey sees the YPG as the Syrian unit of the Kurdistan Workers' Party, which it calls a terrorist force. The dilemma that the U.S. faces is one of bringing both the YPG and Turkey on the same side of the battle for Raqqa.

Turkey had in the past played dubious games with the IS. If it decides to do that again now, the war on the IS could be derailed.

ong mentally?

P6

The politics of perceptions Material change matters, but perception too determines a feeling of deprivation. Prosperity, good governance and a focus on fairness, rather than electoral pandering, often elicit greater political support Sonalde Desai Public discontent is like a chameleon. When we see it, we know it must have been hiding in plain sight for a while; but until we spot it, we are not even aware of its existence. Until Donald Trump catapulted onto the American political scene, it would have been hard to imagine poor workers uniting behind a billionaire who has specialised in taking advantage of the system to avoid paying taxes and fair wages to his employees. Similarly, no one took Brexit seriously until election results tapped into lower-class discontent among the British voters. It would be easy for us to say that poverty and declining economic conditions lead to frustration among the poor and revolt against the political elites. But is it really true?

India and Pakistan - a contrast Poverty in Pakistan fell from nearly 35 per cent in 2001 to 10 per cent in 2013-14. Although Pakistan has recently adjusted its poverty line increasing the poverty ratio to 30 per cent, as Ghazala Mansuri of the World Bank notes, by all objective standards, even the poorest in Pakistan are better off today than a decade earlier.

Paradoxically, according to the Pakistan Social and Living Standards Measurement Survey, about 21 per cent of the households felt that their economic condition had declined over the preceding 12 months while only 12 per cent felt it had improved. India has experienced a roughly similar magnitude of poverty decline, from 37 per cent in 2004-05 to 22 per cent in 2011-12. However, as the India Human Develop-

ment Survey (IHDS), organised by researchers from the University of Maryland and the National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) found, the proportion of households that felt that their economic condition declined between 2011-12 and 2004-05 was much smaller (about 10 per cent) compared to those who felt it had improved (about 37 per cent).

How do we explain that with similar economic improvements, the Indians perceived that their fortunes were improving while the Pakistanis did not? Could this be because there was greater income inequality in Pakistan than in India, making individuals keenly aware of their relative rather than absolute poverty? Empirical data does not show that Pakistan was more unequal. World Bank data show that in 2011, 42 per cent of the income was held by the top 20 per cent of the population in Pakistan; the comparable figure for India was 44 per cent. At the bottom of the distribution too, Pakistan seems marginally better with 9.4 per cent of the income in the hands of the bottom 20 per cent for Pakistani versus 8.3 per cent for India. This suggests that inequality in Pakistan and India was more or less on a par, with Indian inequality being marginally higher.

Clearly something else was going on, something that related to perception, a subjective feeling of deprivation rather than objective conditions.

My guess is that this sense of economic deprivation is closely linked to the social and political conditions in which individuals live. Living in a society that is well gov-

erned creates a sense of security that is equally, if not more, important than actual economic advancement. This is where India probably has an edge over Pakistan.

While lack of comparable data do not allow us to compare Pakistan with India on these subjective factors, the IHDS data suggest that at least within India, experience of bad governance and grievances about fair treatment shape a feeling of economic marginalisation. Using data from the IHDS, the only large panel survey in which the same households were interviewed in 2004-05 as well as 201112, we found that even after we took into account objective changes in income and factors such as education and place of residence, the nature of governance and social policies played an important role in enhancing or diminishing feelings of economic insecurity.

Physical insecurity spills over into feeling economically insecure. Individuals who have been victims of crime - theft, break-in or intimidation are far more likely to feel that they are downwardly

mobile. After we took into account income changes over time and the household's education as well as place of residence, crime victims in the IHDS were about 56 per cent more likely to feel economically worse off in recent years than non-victims. Good public service delivery also created a feeling of well-being.

Households that experienced frequent power cuts and did not have power supply for at least 18 hours in a day were 43 per cent more likely to express a feeling of economic insecurity than those who enjoyed consistent power supply.

Fairness and prosperity A sense of fairness in economic outcomes is also strongly related to perceptions of prosperity. In recent years, we have seen an upsurge in the grievances expressed by forward castes who feel that the Other Backward Classes (OBC) are unjustifiably stealing their jobs and opportunities for college admission. Holding household economic status and education constant, forward castes were about 30 per cent more likely to feel that they were worse off in 2011-

12 than in 2004-05. In this case it is not surprising that we see greater demand for OBC classification from well-off groups such as Jats, Patels and Gujjars.

This is not to suggest that material changes don't matter and perception alone determines a feeling of deprivation. The IHDS found that after controlling for other factors, households whose incomes declined by at least 20 per cent in constant terms between 2004-05 and 2011-12 were 35 per cent more likely to feel that they are worse off compared to those whose incomes stayed the same and 51 per cent more likely than households whose incomes grew by 20 per cent or more. However, the magnitude of the impact of actual economic decline on subjective feeling of deprivation was on a par with the governance and fairness concerns enumerated above.

American sociologist Andrew Cherlin notes that a feeling of relative deprivation is what shapes the support for Mr. Trump. Lower class whites acutely feel the loss of privilege their parents enjoyed in a bygone era where black-white differences were large and being white brought greater rewards while the African-Americans were shut out of good jobs.

With declining premium of whiteness, these same individuals feel beleaguered and support the Republican presidential candidate who capitalises on anti-immigrant and anti-black feelings.

Trust as a defining factor The IHDS also found that individuals' perception of their economic progress is associated with a more

favourable opinion of politicians. The IHDS asked how much trust and confidence individuals had in each of the three institutions - politicians, state government, and local government. If individuals responded that they had hardly any confidence in at least one of these three institutions, we define them as having an unfavourable opinion of government.

Among those who believed that their households were in better economic condition than in the past, 56 per cent had an unfavourable opinion of the government; among those whose view of their own economic condition did not change, 58 per cent had an unfavourable opinion of the government; and among those who felt they were doing badly, 65 per cent had an unfavourable opinion of the government.

These results suggest that prosperity, good governance as well as focus on fairness, rather than electoral pandering, are likely to bring rewards in the form of political support and increased confidence in government. India may well be doing well on these compared to Pakistan, at least if we judge by the feeling of economic prosperity among the population, but it is of small comfort. When 57 per cent of the population holds an unfavourable opinion of political institutions, it is time to re-evaluate what can be done to increase this confidence. If not for the sake of the nation, then in the interest of political survival. The difference in confidence in the political system between those who feel they are doing economically well and those who feel left behind is relatively small; but in a climate of political disenchantment this small difference is perhaps enough to create an electoral tsunami.

Not a corporate sinecure The time has come for independent directors to demonstrate that they will be diligent and not be mere rubber stamps.

Raghu Palat The recent Ratan TataCyrus Mistry imbroglio brings into sharp focus the role and position of independent directors. Under Section 149 of the Companies Act, at least onethird of the directors of a listed company must be independent. That means that the person so appointed must not be a promoter of the company or its holding subsidiary or associate company nor should he/she be related to the promoters of the company. In addition, neither the individual nor his/her relatives should have a pecuniary relationship with the company. They are also, under Section 149(6), to be persons of integrity and possessing the relevant skills and experience.

Independent directors, though they may in the ini-

tial stage be invited by the controlling shareholders of a company or its incumbent managing director, are appointed by the shareholders at a General Meeting; they are so appointed to safeguard not only the best interests of all shareholders but also of all stakeholders.

Role of the independent director Prior to the enactment of the Companies Act, 2013, the independent director had only civil liability.

And to a great extent he/ she was part of a "hail fellow" network where controlling shareholders invited their friends to sit on their boards confident of their support. In many other instances, retiring senior executives eagerly sought seats on the board as a way to supplement their pension. They were often grateful for being given a berth and remained loyal to the man-

agement that invited them.

The only time I can recall when there was consternation, fear, outrage and indignation was when an arrest warrant was issued on Nimesh Kampani in 2009 as he was an independent director in Nagarjuna Finance. The company had defaulted on repaying deposits. Many felt this was unfair as an independent director had no executive duty and should not be held responsible.

Section 149(12) provides that an independent director shall be liable only in respect of omission or commission by a company that had occurred with his/ her knowledge, attributable through board processes, and with his consent or connivance, or where he had not acted diligently. I am uncertain whether independent directors appreciate this, but this provision is all-en-

compassing as it suggests that if a company has made a decision which is not in its better interest (taking into account all stakeholders) at a board meeting and the independent director was aware or party to the decision, he is liable both in civil and criminal terms. Many senior proponents of the law have opined that this means that even if the director has not attended a meeting but the item was mentioned on the agenda and the independent director had not objected to it, he/she would be liable.

Furthermore, if the independent director attends a meeting where the matter is discussed and he/she keeps quiet even though not in agreement, he/she could be held both criminally and civilly liable.

The independent director, if he/she is not in agreement with a proposal, must, if he/she wants to be

The house with the golden windows The little girl lived in a small, very simple, poor house on a hill and as she grew she would play in the small garden and as she grew she was able to see over the garden fence and across the valley to a wonderful house high on the hill and this house had golden windows, so golden and shining that the little girl would dream of how magic it would be to grow up and live in a house with golden windows instead of an ordinary house like hers.

And although she loved her parents and her family, she yearned to live in such a golden house and dreamed all day about how wonderful and exciting it must feel to live there.

When she got to an age where she gained

enough skill and sensibility to go outside her garden fence, she asked her mother is she could go for a bike ride outside the gate and down the lane. After pleading with her, her mother finally allowed her to go, insisting that she kept close to the house and didn't wander too far. The day was beautiful and the little girl knew exactly where she was heading! Down the lane and across the valley, she rode her bike until she got to the gate of the golden house across on the other hill.

As she dismounted her bike and lent it against the gate post, she focused on

the path that lead to the house and then on the house itself...and was so disappointed as she realised all the windows were plain and rather dirty, reflecting nothing other than the sad neglect of the house that stood derelict.

So sad she didn't go any further and turned, heart broken as she remounted her bike ... As she glanced up she saw a sight to amaze her...there across the way on her side of the valley was a little house and its windows glistened golden ...as the sun shone on her little home.

She realised that she had been living in her golden house and all the love and care she found there was what made her home the 'golden house'. Everything she dreamed was right there in front of her nose!

in the clear, state his/her disagreement and have it recorded in the minutes.

Owning up responsibility In many companies which are majorityowned by a family or a few individuals, the persons controlling the company tend to treat it as their own fiefdom and utilise company funds and resources for personal enjoyment. Company planes (which the company may not need) are used for trips to resorts abroad to hold a board meeting. Paintings by reputed artists purchased at astronomical prices adorn private homes. Homes are lavishly decorated at company expense. The independent director in many cases may not be aware or be a party to this. However, can it be said in these cases that the independent director acted

diligently and as was expected of him/her?

Shouldn't the independent director question and seek answers?

United Breweries was a very profitable company till it floated Kingfisher Airlines. Did the independent directors act diligently while approving this disastrous foray? Indian corporate lore is littered with many such examples. How is it that fingers are not being pointed at independent directors?

I believe the time has now come for independent directors to demonstrate, if they are to do what is expected of them and to avoid liability, that they will take care and be diligent and not be mere rubber stamps. In addition, no one must be an independent director if he/ she has the slightest concern about the bona fides of the controlling shareholders. If one still does, it is at one's own peril.

Rahul Gandhi's elevation It is ironical that Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi lashed out at the Modi government for being "obsessed with power" and that he said that the government is "seeking to silence" all those who disagree with it . Mr. Gandhi should perhaps be reminded of the days of the Emergency. No Congressperson has the moral right to lecture anyone else on the virtues of democracy and speak against the abuse of power before denouncing the Emergency. This might be a big challenge for the party but it's high time for them to do this in order to sound more credible.

Gaurav Neog Milannagar, Dibrugarh

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Fill your wishing well with wellness fruits Feast on natural food for healthy eyes

Keep your skin soft and glowing this winter It's winter time, the harsh weather for the skin. Low humidity and dry chilled air steals the moisture away from the skin leaving it chapped and unhealthy.

Skin needs special care regimen to stay moist and youthful throughout the cold months.

Lightly scratch your skin. If it turns white, that means your skin is dry or else it is moisturized. Those suffering from dry skin, try out these simple home tips and

keep your skin beautifully soft and supple in cold season too.

In winters, your skin needs extra hydration not only from outside but from inside as well. It can be done by taking necessary diet full of fruits and vegetables having lots of water content. Try to add vitamin A and vitamin E rich foods in your meal plan. Drink plenty of water, fresh juices and healthy drinks in your daily routine.

Hot water baths take out the moisture from the skin.

Avoid them. Take bath with

lukewarm water and protect your skin from unnecessary dryness.

Wear clothes that cover most of your body. The skin exposed to cold air dries and chaps easily.

Apply a natural moisturizer like glycerine, coconut oil, olive oil, almond oil or castor oil on your whole body immediately after having bath. Natural gel directly extracted from aloe Vera leaf if applied for half an hour before bath also moisturize the skin from deep inside, leaving it smooth

and vibrant. Do not use chemical moisturizers and make up products having alcohol content. Do not apply heavy make-up. They block the pores of the skin.

Exfoliate your skin with vitamin C rich lemon juice.

The citric acid in the juice will remove the dryness as well as the darkness often caused by sun during winter. It will also renew the skin cells making it glow.

Apply some home-made packs which provide wonderful remedy for dry skin.

Soaked almond paste combined with raw milk, lemon juice and gram flour; oatmeal paste combined with lemon juice; ripe papaya paste and buttermilk face packs are perfect for winter glow.

Avoid scrubs if you have acne problem.

Avoid eating fried, sugary and junk foods.

If your skin is not treated for a long time in winters, it can cause more severe skin problems. A wide array of winter skincare products is available in the market, but some may not suit your skin.

So, try these home cures and keep your skin moisturized and glowing throughout the winter season.

Are you breathing right?

For all of us, breathing is just an automatic function that keeps us alive. Good breathing being a vital component of good health is sadly taken for granted by most of us. We take too shallow breaths, which increase our stress levels.

1) Pay attention to it Notice how your breathing changes when you laugh, cry, have sex and exercise.

Once you understand the way you breathe, you will be better equipped to modify it.

2) Breathe through your nose Your nose refines the air going inside your body. If you breathe through your mouth, many viruses, bacteria enter your body along with the unfiltered air.

3) Use your diaphragm Use your diaphragm to keep your breathing deep and nice. By using diaphragm, the pressure in the chest and belly is decreased so that the heart won't have to work as

hard.

4) Breathe rhythmically Breathing rhythmically is as simple as taking long, deliberate inhales at designated times throughout the day.

Count to three as you breathe in, and again when you exhale. Make each inhale and exhale the same length, without pausing.

5) Find a daily breathing routine Deep breathing for 10 to 20 minutes a day, or even practicing for a minute every hour will have noticeable benefits. It will change your mental and emotional state.

HOW TO BREATHE

RIGHT Method 1: One way is to increase the inhalation time, followed by long and complete 'Om' chants, by which the exhalation automatically lengthens.

Method 2: Ujjayi breathing is known as 'victorious breathing'. To practice Ujjayi, close your mouth and breathe through the nose. Next take a deep inhalation through the nose and exhale through the nose while tightening the muscles in the back of your throat with the Ujjayi sound. The sound in the throat should be like a hiss or the sound

of the ocean when you are standing far off, and can only hear it.

Method 3: Alternate nostril breathing or what we simply call Pranayama, allows both sides of the brain to collaborate by using one nostril at a time. Other benefits of pranayama are it supports our lungs and respiratory functions, rejuvenates the nervous system, removes toxins and helps to settle stress.

Method 4: Blow out candles. This exercise targets your core muscles so that you can exhale more effectively. Exhale through your mouth as if you were blowing out a row of candles, letting the air hit the back of your teeth in order to make the exhale audible.

Method 5: Blow up balloons. When you practice blowing up a balloon, it encourages you to contract your diaphragm and core muscles.

Tips to pair Indian food with wine

Selecting the wine that goes well with our Indian cuisine can be a fascinating affair.

We keep reading about the different facets of pairing wine with food, however, never get a settling answer to this delectable wedlock!

Ajit Balgi founder of The Happy High a certified wine & liquour consultant has finally burst the bubble and he tells us what type of wine works best with our kind of food.

For a long time now, food connoisseurs have been trying to figure out the right drink to go with typical Indian food. Whenever this topic pops open, arguments flow like the numerous varieties of wine. There is no denying the fact that red

wine is most suitable to have with food, as it goes well with meats. But considering the fact that a large part of Indian fare is vegetarian, we often wonder what the recourse is for them who thrive on greens and paneer.

Indian cuisine is extremely heterogeneous and changes from region to region and hence it won't be an exaggeration if 8 out of 10 people say that white wine compliments and accentuates the flavours of their food. Also, Indian food has a great affinity for white wines especially because of the condiments used in the preparation - the dry after taste and the spices are a soulful redemption for the taste buds.

I would bet all my money for the German Rieslings, they are undoubtedly the best wines for Indian food.

Mildly sweet and fruity, they balance out the spice on the palate. It is best paired with rich curried and red meat dishes that are heavy on spice and flavour.

Rieslings come in various degrees of sweetness and the dry/off-dry variants perfectly complement the Asian cuisines. Some brands in India like the organic Pfaffman from Germany, the iconic French Hugel or the new world Kiwi Framingham do a great justice to the kind of food we consume. For those who like some fizz, they can largely enjoy world class

sparkling wines from India - a more opulent Zampa Brut or the razor sharp Fratelli.

The Party Menu To make your house parties fun and classy, here is a list of Indian food items and the wine to have with them: Chicken Tikka: Pair it with the Zampa Brut, a traditional sparkling wine from India or the AltemuraSasseo, a ripe Primitivo (Zinfandel) blend from Puglia, Italy.

Mutton Kadai: The Chilean Limited Edition of Carta Vieja Merlot, a Rhone Grenache Syrah blend, La Vielle Ferme or our own the ripe Reveilo Reserve Syrah will beautifully enhance the spice and the richness of the meat.

Paneer Manchurian: This mainstream Chindian food and a glass of the French Hugel Riesling will be a fantastic combination for that gastronomical evening.

Goat Cheese Tikki: Nothing can be better than the off-dry Riesling, Pfaffman, an organic wine from Germany, to have with this Indo-western fusion.

Time and again I have been asked what is the best pairing for the classic Indian 'chakna' or bar bite -Papad and Peanut Masala. I would say couple it with a fruity glass of sparkling York or a glass of Sauvignon Blanc from Charosa; both have Indian origin and I am sure that is the best pair of classy and sassy that you will witness!

Are you eating the right kind of foods that can help improve vision and prevent age-related eye diseases such as cataract. It is easier to protect your eyes by eating foods that are packed with vision-friendly nutrients. Learn more about some of these foods that can improve your eyesight and help protect against sight threatening diseases.

Eggs - Eggs are full of eyefriendly antioxidants. Egg yolks are high in lutein. It is a type of a carotenoid that helps fight macular degeneration, the leading cause of old age blindness.

Green and leafy vegetables - These vegetables contain carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which are very beneficial for vision and have a positive impact on the retina. They may help reduce disability and discomfort from glare, enhance contrast and reduce photostress recovery times.

Fruits and vegetables containing vitamin C - Citrus fruits like oranges and vegetables like red capsicums are packed with vitamin C. They provide antioxidants that help keep the eyes healthy. Vitamin C helps the body form and maintain

connective tissue, including collagen found in the cornea of the eye. It promotes the delicate capillaries in the retina.

Nuts - Nuts are tasty snacks that are excellent source of vitamin E and minerals such as zinc that help keep your eyes healthy. They may decrease the risk of cataract and age related macular degeneration. Being packed with vitamin E, nuts help protect membranes of cells throughout the body against damage caused by free radicals.

Beans - Kidney beans, black-eyed peas and lentils are good sources of bioflavonoids and zinc.

They can help protect the retina and lower the risk for developing macular degeneration and cataracts.

Oysters and pork - Oysters and pork are super foods proven to boost eye health.

The selenium and zinc in these foods are good for your eyes as they protect against macular degeneration and night blindness.

Salmon, tuna and other oily fishes - Salmon, tuna and

other fatty fishes are the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids which may help treat eye diseases. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for normal infant vision development. It is a high source of B vitamins too which can slash the risk of cataracts by about half.

So, there is more to eye nutrition beyond carrots.

God has bestowed us with a pair of beautiful eyes to see his stunning creations.

Reduce the risk of vision impairment with regular intake of these foods.

How to end unhealthy friendships Ending a friendship is just like a break-up. It's bitter and there's no easy way to say it as eventually one of you will be more hurt than the other. Even though we've been brought up with the thought that friendships last forever, there might be things that haven't worked out between friends. One of you might be more giving, have severe ego issues, be constantly bullied by the other or even be jealous of the others success. Whatever the reason, if you think it's only leaving you stress ed and feeling bitter, you have to end it for your own mental peace. After all, nobody likes to be friends with someone who passes on negative energy. If being friends really doesn't work out despite all the effort, you have no choice but to let go of it gracefully. Here are some ways you can deal with it...

Meet in person and discuss You have spent years being good friends. But now that you have decided to bid goodbye, do so in person.

After all, you need to value the time you guys spent together for so many years.

Pick a spot where you can talk openly about it. You might expect a plethora of emotions when you are discussing it. So, pick a place that is not crowded. Head to a beach, lakeside or go to a restaurant at odd hours so that it is less crowded. Meet

in person and decide to part amicably.

Call up if meeting doesn't work If you both are in two different countries or can't meet for some reason, talk it out over the phone. Sending lengthy messages won't work. No matter how clearly you write, the other one always has the advantage of comprehending them in a way he/she wants to. Why make it sour?

Choose an appropriate time and discuss why it isn't working. This way, both of you will get a chance to speak. Even if the other blames you of saying something wrong, you can always explain it.

Let it fade away If you both haven't been on talking terms for a while now, let it fade away. Sometimes, natural death of a relationship is the best way to end it. Of course, you won't get the answers or the typical closure this way. But this

could be the best way to deal with it. After a few years, it will just look like you have grown out of this relationship. If you've been talking to each other thrice a week, cut it down to once a week. And slowly, move on. Avoid any conversations and the relationship cease.

Don't do the blame game You have decided to end it gracefully. Even if your friend is getting nasty, you don't get into the blame game. 'You didn't do this for me' or 'You said stuff like this' - might make things worse. So, go for things that explain how it wouldn't work for the both of you. Of course, you can't hide the reasons. But tell them in a manner that doesn't hurt.

Say things like, 'This won't make us happy in the long run.'

If it's worth it, give another chance Despite working on the pros and cons, if your friend is still persistent that he/she

wants another chance, think it over. This is quite tricky just like romantic breakups. But if your friend is positive about it and promises to put in effort to restore the good old times, give it another chance. But this time, ensure to work on all the problem areas. Being friends again after going through a rough patch is not easy. But ensure you work on it.

Things you should remember once you end your friendship 1) Don't discuss about it with your common friends.

Everyone will have their opinion on this and it might lead to a very judgmental conversation. We are sure you don't want somebody to feed on this gossip, right?

2) Avoid calls and messages from your friend. If you have ended the friendship, don't encourage any more conversations. Forget dealing with what to say and how to say it, it will simply be very embarrassing and awkward.

3) If you have decided to take a break, take a considerable amount of time to reconsider your relationship. And once you guys are back, don't discuss the past.

4) Don't give up on good friendship. Just because you ended a bad friendship, it doesn't mean that there is no hope. Maintain healthy friendships with existing friends, but don't keep discussing it with them.

9 Ways to twirl your moustache this Movember Thirteen years after the launch of the Movember movement that was established to create awareness about men's health, November is no more known by its name. What starts on the first day of the eleventh month with a clean shave, ends with men who don't shave their moustaches for the rest of the month, thus sporting these stylish frizzies et al.

How it originated It was launched in 2003 in Australia by 30 friends as a campaign to create awareness as well as raise funds for prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health and suicide prevention among men. The campaign came into effect since several men were dying young due to severe health issues, which were not talked about. The Movember (Mo for the moustache and clubbed with November the month) Foundation, is supported by over five million people across the world and several countries participate in this movement.

RULES Clean it up November 1 should have been the last day to use a razor on your face. Make sure your entire face is smooth and sans any facial hair.

No beards at all Movember, as the name suggests, means 'Moustache-No-

vember'. It isn't about growing a sexy bearded look. At its core, it is just about growing hair on your upper lip.

No shaving, only grooming All you can do is to groom your moustache and clean the extra hair around your jaw, chin and neck, but you cannot shave the moustache.

No handlebars Make sure that you do not join your handlebar moustache to your mutton chops or sideburns, as they become beards. Remember, it's only about growing a clean moustache.

Support the cause It is important to understand the reason of growing a Movember.

The idea is for men to do their bit in order to create awareness about health issues and add to the significance of the movement.

Styles that you can sport with elan 1. Chevron This is a serious man's business - a bushy and luxuriant slug -this style of moustache is not for the faint-hearted. Make sure you have an even and hairy tash to sport this style. It is usually seen on cops, bureaucrats and men with mettle.

2. Dali It is not just the most different, but a stylish tash with an edge.

It gives you a certain shock value when you enter into a room with a bunch of mediocres. All you need to do to sport this look is to apply a lot of hair gel in order to stiffen the moustache and then use a blow-dryer to hold it in place.

3. Handlebar This is, by far, the most popular style of moustache, as it suits everyone, irrespective of age or shape of the face. It definitely brings back your mojo and helps you stand out in the crowd with the edgy curve to your tash.

4. Horseshoe Sported by the legendary wrestler Hulk Hogan, this style of moustache is the ultimate sign of masculinity. This tash is thick and fuller, the moustache runs down past your mouth and right up to your chin, making a really interesting statement.

5. English If you are a debonair, who is usually suited-up, then this is your style. Make sure you keep it well-sculpted, as any stray hair would simply disturb the look.

6. Fu Manchu Named after a fictional character, this moustache starts near the corners of the mouth and grows downward past clean-shaven lips and chin in two tapered tendrils. This one often extends past

the jawline.

7. Pencil A close cousin of the English moustache, this style comes with a dash of discipline. It is especially for a man with an eye for detail and a strong heart. However, it takes a steady hand to maintain the tash, as one bad move and you could end up looking like a catfish.

8. Walrus A bit of attitude and a lot of swag, this look is only chosen by those who really know how to play well. Make sure you have really lustrous locks to sport the Walrus tash as it needs to fall on your lips and not stay stiff.

9. Painter's brush Although it looks pretty simple, this moustache is classy and badass at the same time. When seen carefully, this style is thicker in the centre and tapers slights towards the end with a slight handlebar.

Did u know?

The world's longest moustache is known to belong to an Indian named Ram Singh Chauhan from Rajasthan. He proudly sports a 14-foot long one. This 61-year-old hasn't cut his moustache in the past 35 years and maintains it by applying mustard and coconut oil. He additionally also massages it.

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INTERNATIONAL Putin says good relations between Russia and US 'will benefit entire world' Agencies Moscow, Nov 9: Russia is ready to do everything to return the relations with the United States to the growth trajectory, Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday. Putin made this statement at a ceremony of accepting credentials from ambassadors.

"Russia is ready and wants to restore full-format relations with the United States," the Russian leader said.

"Let me repeat. We proceed from the fact that this will be an uneasy way but we're ready both to cover our part of the distance and do everything to return the Russian-US relations to the steady development trajectory," Putin said.

The Russian president has heard Trump's statements about his intention to restore relations between Moscow and Washington and he realizes that it will be difficult, but Putin reiterated that he was ready

for that: "We heard the statements made by the then US presidential candidate, which were aimed at restoring relations between Russia and the US," Putin noted. "We understand and are aware of the fact that this will be a difficult path considering the current degradation of the Russian-US relations."

Putin recalled that the US presidential election ended a few hours ago.

He noted that Russia had followed the election campaign closely. "I want to congratulate the American people on the completion of the electoral cycle, and Mr. Donald Trump - on winning this election," the Russian leader said.

Speaking about the degradation of relations with the US, the Russian president once again stressed that "it is not our fault that the Russian-American relations are in such a state.

Mass protest in Hong Kong over China intervention

Agencies Hong Kong , Nov 9: Street battles erupted as thousands in Hong Kong protested against China's intervention in a dispute over whether two recently elected pro-independence politicians should be barred from taking office.

On Sunday scuffles broke out and police pepper-sprayed some demonstrators as they marched from Wan Chai district to the city's central financial district, with several hundred pressing on to Beijing's Liaison Office - where demonstrators charged metal fences set up by police.

"This is outrageous," said Jay, a bespectacled 21-year-old student who wore a mask to protect himself against the pepper spray.

"The Chinese government is destroying Hong Kong's judicial independence. It's an attempt to control what we think.

Even people who are against independence are coming out against this."

Some protesters threw bottles at security forces

and others hoisted open umbrellas in the air - a symbol reminiscent of student-led pro-democracy demonstrations in 2014 when hundreds of thousands came out and blocked key Hong Kong streets, attracting global attention. Organisers put Sunday's protest numbers at 11,000 and police said 8,000 turned out. A number of arrests were made.

Last week, China passed a ruling that could preclude politicians Yau Wai-ching and Baggio Leung from the opportunity to redo their swearing-in ceremonies in the city's legislative council - since their oaths in October were rejected because they deliberately misread them to protest for greater sovereignty in Hong Kong.

Beijing's law that could reshape the autonomous territory's constitution came as courts in Hong Kong debated whether or not Yau and Baggio could retake their oaths.

Both pledged allegiance to the "Hong Kong nation" and displayed a "Hong Kong is not

China" banner during their swearing-in ceremonies.

The pair have been described by Chinese officials as a threat to their country's sovereignty and security.

Beijing's government has discussed invoking its rarely used power to interpret Hong Kong's constitution, the Basic Law, to stop the two politicians from taking office.

Al Jazeera's Divya Gopalan, reporting from Hong Kong, said the protesters view China's intervention as a threat to the territory's independence and autonomy.

"The way Hong Kong's people see it ... if Beijing is allowed to intervene in the constitution this time and change a piece of the law, overriding Hong Kong's traditional system, they will be able to do it any time when they are unhappy with Hong Kong's rule of law or any judicial decisions," Gopalan said.

The situation is seen among many across Hong Kong's legal and political elites as one of the biggest tests the global financial hub has faced since its handover to China, with some fearing its vaunted rule of law is under threat.

Britain returned Hong Kong to Chinese control in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula that gave the territory wide-ranging autonomy - including judicial freedom - under the Basic Law.

Breast cancer chemotherapy fails to promise relapse-free survival: Study IANS London, Nov 11: Contrary to expectations, the use of tailored dosedense chemotherapy in women with high-risk early breast cancerfailed to result in any statistically significant improvement in breast cancer recurrence-free survival, a study has found.

Dose-dense therapy, defined as delivery of chemotherapy at shorter intervals without increasing the cumulative dose, has been suggested as a means to improve efficacy of chemotherapy for early breast cancer.

However, the study led by researchers from Karolinska Institutet in Sweden, showed that

over a median of 5.3 years the breast cancer recurrence-free survival rates in patients who underwent for tailored dosedense chemotherapy was 88.7 per cent, whereas those who had standard chemotherapy it was 85 per cent -- a difference that was not statistically significant.

Further, patients in the tailored dose-dense group also suffered with non-hematologic toxic effects, such as fatigue, musculoskeletal pain, and neutropenic infection, than patients who took standard adjuvant chemotherapy.

Non-hematologic toxic effects were found to occur in 527 (53 per cent) in the tailored dose-dense group

and 366 (37 per cent) in the standard adjuvant chemotherapy group, the researchers said.

"Although the total treatment time was similar, patients in the tailored dose-dense group underwent more therapy courses and subsequently had more toxic effects, more hospital visits and frequent blood draws," Jonas Bergh, Professor in Karolinska Institutet, was quoted as saying to healio.com.

For the study, appearing in the journal JAMA, the team randomly assigned 2,017 women with high-risk early breast cancer aged 65 years and younger.

Syrian army makes 'significant gains' in Aleppo Agencies Syria, Nov 9: The Syrian army says it has taken a strategic district of Aleppo in what would mark the most important advance in the divided city by the government and its allies in weeks.

However, anti-government fighters say the battle is not over.

The 1070 Apartments district is located on the southwestern outskirts of Aleppo and lies alongside the government's corridor into the parts of the city that it controls.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR), a UK-based group that reports on the war, said government forces and their allies seized full control of 1070 Apartments on Tuesday, calling it the most significant gain by the government in Aleppo since September.

A Syrian military source said the army and allied forces were in complete control of the area and surrounding hills.

They have made repeated efforts to force opposition fighters from the 1070 Apartments area since summer.

A military media unit run

by Hezbollah carried a similar report.

Hezbollah, a Lebanese Shia group, is fighting in support of President Bashar al-Assad in Syria's war, now well in its sixth year.

But officials in two antigovernment groups active in Aleppo - Syria's largest city and commercial hub before the war - said its fighters were still trying to fight back.

"The clashes around 1070 Apartments are still going on," Zakaria Malahifji, head of the political office of the Fastaqim group, said, while confirming that Assad's army had taken the district.

Yasser Alyousef from the political office of the Nour al-Din al-Zinki armed group said fighters had recovered positions they had lost on Monday.

Syrian government forces, backed by allied militias and Russian air power, launched a major assault on eastern Aleppo in September after besieging the area, which the UN says is home to 275,000 people.

On October 29, fighters counterattacked in an effort to break the siege, targeting government-held western districts of Aleppo in an offensive under the Free Syrian Army banner. But their

Russia to retaliate EU's blacklisting of six State Duma members Moscow, November 9 : The European Union's decision to expand its black list of Russian officials under sanctions by including in it six State Duma members from Crimea and Sevastopol will do nothing to help restore a normal dialog between the legislative bodies of Russia and the European Union and will not be left unnoticed, the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a commentary.

"Moscow knows about the EU Council's November 8 decision to expand sanctions against Russian individuals by including in it six State Duma members from Crimea and Sevastopol," the commentary says.

The Russian Foreign Ministry pointed to the fact that Russia regarded the EU's restrictive measures to-

wards the people of Crimea and Sevastopol as "utterly unjustified collective punishment of the region's population for the free and democratic expression of their will."

"The re-incorporation of the peninsula into Russia has been settled once and for all.

Its residents elected their representatives in the Russian parliament in an absolutely legitimate way," the Foreign Ministry said.

"Restrictions against State Duma members will by no means help restore a normal dialogue between the lawmaking bodies of Russia and the European Union, which is so crucial at the current no easy stage of RussiaEU relations," the commentary runs. "The Russian side will take corresponding retaliatory measures."

Car bomb blast kills soldiers near Somali parliament

Al-Shabab has carried out several attacks in Mogadishu this year [Feisal Omar/Reuters] Agencies Somali, Nov 9: At least two soldiers were killed and five wounded in a suicide car bomb attack on Saturday near Somalia's parliament in the capital Mogadishu, according to police.

The blast, which targeted an army convoy near the Sayidka junction checkpoint, was claimed by the armed group al-Shabab.

"Two soldiers died and five others were injured," Major Hussein Nur told Reuters news agency, adding that police, military and security forces were on the scene when the attack occurred.

The attacker, who also was killed, was trying to cause the maximum number of casualties but failed as he struck only one of the convoy's vehicles, Captain Mohamed

Hussein told the Associated Press news agency.

Al-Shabab's radio station Andalus said a suicide car bomb had been driven by "a mujahid" into Sayidka junction "where a convoy of the apostate government security forces were passing".

The group told Reuters it had killed 17 soldiers and wounded more than 30 others in the attack.

Al-Shabab usually gives far lower numbers of casualties on its side and much higher death tolls for the security forces.

It was pushed out of Mogadishu by the African Union peacekeeping force AMISOM in 2011 but has remained a potent threat in Somalia, launching frequent attacks aimed at overthrowing the Western-backed government.

progress slowed after early gains.

There were conflicting accounts of fighting on Tuesday in the village of Minian, also on the western edge of Aleppo.

Syrian state media said the army had advanced into Minian, which was taken by opposition groups at the start of their campaign.

The SOHR said the army and its allies had captured around half of Minian after heavy air strikes. The fall of Minian to the government would reverse some of the gains the antigovernment groups have

made during their offensive.

But Malahifji, of Fastaqim, denied there had been any clashes inside the village. "Minian is still with the rebels," he said.

"The regime is trying to take it, but it's still with the rebels."

Russia says its air force has been observing a moratorium on air strikes on opposition-held eastern Aleppo since October 18.

The SOHR and emergency workers in eastern Aleppo said heavy air

strikes had killed hundreds of people, and hit hospitals and other civilian facilities before that.

Russia is preparing to resume air strikes around Aleppo "in coming hours", the Interfax news agency quoted a source in the Russian defence ministry as saying on Tuesday.

A senior US official reacted harshly to that possibility, saying the US had repeatedly sought to deescalate the violence, only to see Russia flex its military muscle in support of Assad.

"An escalation would make it harder to resolve the brutal civil war in Syria and raise more doubts about Russia's commitment to a political solution," the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Rebel shelling of government-held western Aleppo has meanwhile killed dozens of people, the UN said last week in an update on the humanitarian situation in the city.

Further east, fighters aligned with the USbacked, Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) were pushing ahead in an offensive towards Raqqa, ISIL's de facto capital in northern Syria.

Move to unite MQM factions under former dictator raises hackles Agencies Karachi, Nov 9: Retired Gen Pervez Musharraf's meeting with a Muttahida Qaumi Movement leader in Dubai and a "plus-one formula" proposed by a leader of the former military dictator's All Pakistan Muslim League have sparked speculation that the powers that be still want a unified MQM, albeit under the leadership of one of their own.

Top Musharraf aide Ahmed Raza Kasuri of the All Pakistan Muslim League put forward his "plus-one formula" in a video released recently on social media. In the video, he asks various factions of the MQM to accept Gen Musharraf as the leader of a unified MQM in order to "save" the party and its role in national mainstream politics.

Mr Kasuri told Dawn that he had taken the former president into confidence before announcing his plus-one formula and that the MQM factions he had referred to were Dr Farooq Sattar-led MQMPakistan, Mustafa Kamalled Pak Sarzameen Party and all "pro-Pakistan groups minus Altaf Hussain".

Mr Kasuri says in the video that if the MQM factions accepted Gen Musharraf as their leader, no one would call them Indian agents since a former army chief would be their leader. Secondly, he says, it would grant MQM access to other parts of the country.

Yet the video failed to create a ripple in the national political scene until reports of a meeting between Gen Musharraf and MQM's Khwaja Izhar-ulHasan, leader of the opposition in the Sindh Assembly, in Dubai surfaced on Tuesday. TV channels aired the news with a picture of Khwaja Izhar with the former president and claimed that the opposition leader had delivered an important message from MQM-Pakistan head Dr Farooq Sattar to Gen Musharraf.

The MQM-Pakistan, however, issued a statement explaining that the meeting had been an informal one and had taken place over a meal with mutual friends. It confirmed that the country's political situation, development issues in Karachi and powers of elected local government representatives had come under discussion.

MQM leader Amin-ulHaq told Dawn that the meeting took place over a week ago in Dubai and Khwaja Izhar had briefed the party leadership on it.

About Mr Kasuri's plusone formula, he said the MQM had no place for a former military dictator as the party would continue to follow democratic principles and take decisions in consultation with its office-bearers and workers.

The Altaf Hussain-led MQM also rejected Mr Kasuri's formula. London-based Wasay Jalil tweeted that the MQM

did not need Pervez Musharraf and that there were no factions in the MQM except those created by the establishment.

However, sources said behind-the-scene attempts had been made to replace Mr Hussain for the last one-and-a-half years. These efforts, by certain quarters, had gained momentum following a split in the party when Dr Sattar-led MQM dissociated itself from the MQM-London.

Sources said an emissary of Gen Musharraf met the MQM-Pakistan senior leadership in Karachi last month to discuss a scenario with the former president as their head.

Mr Kasuri told Dawn that his "plus-one formula" had gone viral on Tuesday but he had actually released the video much earlier. "The meeting between Khwaja Izhar and Gen Musharraf took place after my proposal," he added.

"It [the proposal] is my brainchild...I conceived it and I discussed it with Gen Musharraf," he said.

"I have given a concept.

Its implementation will take time."

MQM sources told Dawn that the former president believed that he could lead a unified MQM. "We sent Khwaja Izhar [to Dubai] who politely clarified that our support base would not agree with the idea," an MQM leader said on condition of anonymity.

Pak summons Indian envoy again to protest 'unprovoked' firing IANS Islamabad, Nov 9: Pakistan on Wednesday summoned Indian Deputy High Commissioner JP Singh for the second time in less than 24 hours to lodge a "strong" protest over "unprovoked" ceasefire violations across the Line of Control.

Foreign Officer Director General (South Asia & SAARC) Mohammad Faisal summoned Singh and "strongly" condemned Indian ceasefire violations on Tuesday in the Khuirata and Battal sectors, resulting in the deaths

of four civilians, including a 10-year-old girl, a statement said.

The Director General urged the Indian side to respect the 2003 ceasefire agreement, investigate the continued incidents of ceasefire violations, instruct the Indian forces to respect the ceasefire, and stop targeting villages and civilians along the LoC, the statement added.

The statement said that India has so far this year, "committed 222 ceasefire violations out of which 184 have been on the LoC

and 38 on the Working Boundary, resulting in shahadat of 26 civilians and injuries to 107 others".

The envoy was summoned on Tuesday over the ceasefire violations that led to the deaths of three people, including a woman, and injuries to four others.

The Indian Deputy High Commissioner has been summoned to the Foreign Office four times in the past weeks, amid rising tensions between the two neighbours.

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10

Top 6 commerce colleges in India 2016 Top 6 commerce colleges in India 2016: It is very imperative to have the complete knowledge of all the institutions that will provide you better knowledge and placements in future. While seeking admission in a commerce institution it is essential to know what is the ranking of that institute as compared to the other institutes.

Commerce is one of the most preferred vocations. There are around 5,000 commerce colleges in India that offer undergraduate and postgraduate courses to the students. The commerce colleges provide intensive knowledge of the subjects such as accountancy, business economics, macroeconomics, trade, industry, the stock market, econometrics, business studies and business administration et cetera.

Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC) SRCC is one of the oldest and Commerce and Economics Institutes in India. Its establishment dates back to 1920. It is affiliated with the University of Delhi. It ranks number one in India and is the most preferred college for commerce courses.

Lady Shri Ram College For Women (LSR) Lady Shri Ram College for Women was established in 1956. It is known as one of the finest commerce colleges in India.

Loyola College, Chennai The Loyola College located in Chennai is the third best Commerce College in India. Its establishment dates back to 1925 and it was founded by the Society of Jesus.

Christ University Bangalore The Christ University Bangalore is not a very old institution as it was built in 1969, however, it is one of the top commerce universities in India.

EDUCATION

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10 things you never knew about being an air hostess In my four years working as a flight attendant for different airlines, including British Airways, I've been inundated with questions about what it's really like to be an air stewardess.

From strict grooming protocol to what passengers get up to when they think no one is watching, it's time to bust some myths and reveal a few surprising truths about life at 30,000 feet.

1. We can survive a situation like the television series Lost.

Survival training is one of the many skills in cabin crew's toolkit. We know how to create a shelter, gather food, find safe drinking water and attract help in the Arctic, jungle, rainforests and deserts, which means you really are safe in our hands.

2. Most of us haven't joined the Mile High Club The truth is that not many hostesses have sexual encounters on board they're tired, bloated and have often just dealt with passengers' bodily fluids, so frisky is the last thing they're feeling. Any passengers who do get 'hot under the collar' at high altitudes get busy in the toilets, but cabin crew can open doors from the outside, so beware. And for those thinking their complimentary blanket affords

secrecy, we can still hear and see you when the lights are off - so keep your hands to yourself, ladies and gentlemen.

3. No drinking the night before a flight There are no exceptions to this rule. All cabin crew can be subjected to alcohol and drugs testing before a flight as it is illegal to be intoxicated on an aircraft, meaning stewards must be booze-free for at least 12 hours before takeoff.

4. We're not allowed to gain weight Once you're issued with a uniform, that's it - you can't change it for a size bigger if you find you've put on a few pounds. The airline will give you one month to lose the weight - otherwise you will be put on a weight management programme.

5. We can deliver babies in mid-air If you find your in-flight movie interrupted by labour pains, don't worry about going it alone. We're trained in how to safely deliver babies until the emergency services can take over on the ground. Your little one might even find itself with free air travel for the rest of its life - though don't get your hopes up if the miracle of birth occurs on a budget airline.

6. We get quizzed before each flight

Before embarking on every journey, we undergo a briefing with the senior cabin crew member, in which we are asked two emergency procedure questions and one medical.

Failure to answer correctly means being taken off the flight.

7. We know the best places to have a good time It's well known that cabin crew love to party, and once a destination has been reached, it's all about having fun - whether that's at a luxurious cocktail bar or an exotically located Irish pub. Instead of buying a travel guidebook just ask cabin crew for some tips, or better yet, tag along on their nights

out. Flight attendants have been known to have wild pool parties, blag their way into VIP areas and even wake up with errant farmyard animals in hotel rooms a la the film The Hangover, so if we're having a party, you want to be invited.

8. Many have previously trained in different professions A lot of people take to the skies after having left another career, so we work with ex-teachers, lawyers, nurses, policemen: you name it, there's a place on board for everyone.

9. Grooming standards are strict Wonder why cabin crew always look immaculate?

That's because they're dis-

Pharmacist Career Information What is a pharmacist?

According to the American HeritageÂŽ Dictionary, a pharmacist is a person trained in pharmacy or a druggist.

What is pharmacy?

According to Britannica Encyclopedia Concise, pharmacy is the science dealing with collection, preparation, and standardization of drugs. Pharmacists, who must earn a qualifying degree, prepare and dispense prescribed medications. They formerly mixed and measured drug products from raw materials according to doctors' prescriptions, and are still responsible for formulating, storing, and providing correct dosages of medicines, now usually produced by pharmaceutical companies as pre-measured tablets or capsules. They also advise patients on the use of both prescription and over-thecounter drugs. Laws regulating the pharmaceutical industry are based on the national pharmacopoeia (in the U.S., the U.S. Pharmacopoeia or USP), which outlines the purity and dosages of numerous medicinal products.

Where do pharmacists work?

Pharmacists work in a number of different settings to include: retail, hospitals, clinics, home health care facilities, home infusion facilities, long-term care facilities, managed care facilities, Armed Services, mail service, internet companies, public health service, veterans administration, local, state, and federal government, association management, community pharmacy, consultant pharmacy, pharmaceutical sales and marketing, drug research and development, managed

care, universities and numerous other settings.

Why pharmacy as a career?

Pharmacists are considered one of the most visible and one of the most accessible health care professionals in the world. Every day, millions of Americans walk into drug stores and depend on pharmacists for assistance and advice for their health care needs. Pharmacists are trusted to help you with some of your most personal concerns and are trusted to help you. Pharmacists are regarded as one of the most trusted professions in the world. Pharmacy has always been an exciting and rewarding career, but has recently become on the most pursued fields in the health care industry.

What do pharmacists do?

On a daily basis, many pharmacists dispense medications to patients in accordance with doctor's orders and consult patients on medication usage and contraindications. Pharmacists communicate directly with physicians in order to correctly deliver medications. Many pharmacists

consult patients on over the counter medications and provide information on home health care supplies and various other health care products. Many pharmacists manage and controlling the environment of the store or facility. Some pharmacies provide services that are not related to health care, such as mail and package delivery, key cutting, soda fountains, deli's, and movie rentals. Many pharmacies provide specialized services associated with your traditional corner drug store pharmacy. Pharmacist can provide specialized services according to the specific area they are specialized. Some pharmacists specialize in psychiatric disorders, intravenous nutrition support, oncology, nuclear pharmacy, and pharmacotherapy.

Is pharmacy easy?

Even though pharmacist have rewarding careers, pharmacy is not easy work.

Many pharmacists spend a vast majority of the day on their feet. Many work with chemotherapy medications and other semi dangerous products. Pharmacists may

be asked to work a variety of shifts, including mornings and nights 365 days a year. Taking care of patients that are sick does not start at 8 and end at 5.

Where do I start?

There are numerous colleges of pharmacy across the USA. A list of pharmacy schools can be found at h t t p : / / w w w. p h a r m a cychoice.com/education/ pharmschools.cfm. In order to practice pharmacy in the USA you must obtain a license to practice pharmacy.

In order to get your license you must follow certain steps starting with pre-pharmacy at a college level. This usually requires 1 to 2 years of college level classes.

These classes include science, chemistry, biology, physics, math and other predetermined classes.

Many colleges require that you take the Pharmacy Colleges Admissions Test (PCAT) before being considered into their professional program. Keep in mind that each school has different policies.

Once you get accepted in a professional pharmacy program, you must complete

St. Xavier's College Mumbai St. Xavier's College is located in Mumbai and its foundation dates back to 1869. It has been accredited with an A+ grade by the NAAC. It offers the best commerce education in India.

St. Joseph's College of Commerce, Banglore St. Joseph's College of Commerce was established in 1972. It is affiliated to Banglore University.

ciplined if grooming standards aren't followed to the letter. Skirts can't go above the knee, heels must not be higher than three inches, lipstick has to be a certain shade of red and constantly applied, and nails must always be manicured with only pink, red or French polish.

Some airlines have also been known to check the colour of your bra before a flight, so being on your best beauty behaviour is a must.

10. We've seen everything Mid-flight strip-teases, mothers putting their babies in overhead lockers, sanitary pads doubling up as eye masks - it's all in a day's work.

the required curriculum established by that college of pharmacy. Most programs now days consist of a 6year Pharm. D curriculum, but a few are still provide a 5-year Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree. All pharmacy schools will move to the 6year program in the near future.

To obtain a license, one must serve an internship under a licensed pharmacist, graduate from an accredited college of pharmacy, and pass a State examination. Most States grant a license without extensive reexamination to qualified pharmacists already licensed by another State-check with State boards of pharmacy for details at http:// www.pharmacychoice.com/ resources/boards_of _pharmacy.cfm. Many pharmacists are licensed to practice in more than one State.

States may require continuing education for license renewal.

All colleges of pharmacy offer courses in pharmacy practice, designed to teach students to dispense prescriptions, communicate with patients and other health professionals, and to strengthen their understanding of professional ethics and practice management responsibilities. Pharmacists' training increasingly emphasizes direct patient care, as well as consultative services to other health professionals.

Are pharmacists in demand?

Pharmacists are in very high demand right now and will continue to be in high demand until at least 2020.

There are 7,000 to 10,000 unfilled pharmacy positions in the USA at any given time right now.

Checklist: 10 Ways to Stay Fit in Winter Who wants to exercise when it's cold and dark outside? But even in winter getting outdoors can put you in a better mood.

It may even improve your concentration.

So bundle yourself and your kids up in layers. Be sure everyone's heads and hands are covered. And, take some extra time warming up before you exercise in the cold.

Then, try these fun activities to keep you and your family in motion through the winter months.

Walk. Walking is easy and requires little more than a good pair of shoes. You can burn calories, increase blood flow, and give your heart and lungs a boost just by putting one foot in front of the other. Walking is also a great stress reducer.

Hike. Hiking affords many of the same benefits as walking, and gives you the chance to explore new vistas.

Run. Vigorous exercise like running slows the effects of aging and appears

to help fend off disease and disability.

Skate, Snowshoe, or Ski. Not only will they get you outdoors, winter sports can involve the whole family and as many friends as you want to include.

Geocache. Take your family on a high-tech treasure hunt. You'll need access to the Internet and a GPS device. The GPS on your cell phone will work just fine. First, look up what treasures are hidden in your area on the

official Geocaching web site, then head out to find them. Geocaching gives kids a chance to learn about the outdoors, problem solving, and teamwork.

Indoor Winter Fitness Tips What can you do during a snowstorm or when it's just too cold to go outside? Here are some indoor fitness tips for your family.

Yoga or Pilats. Yoga is a great way for adults and kids to keep muscles lim-

ber and take a stress break. Pilates builds strong core muscles and can improve posture. You can find yoga and Pilates classes at a gym, in a studio, or get a DVD you can follow at home.

Swim. If you have access to an indoor pool, jump in for your mental and physical health. Not only is swimming the most popular athletic activity in the U.S., swimmers tend to live longer and have better moods than people who do not exercise.

NATION

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10

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Normal life remains disrupted in Kashmir Sees Modi in shoes of my grandfather: Srinagar, Nov 9: Normal life remained affected in Kashmir for the 88th consecutive day today due to the separatist-sponsored strike, but the signs of fatigue from the nearly three month long unrest were visible as more people are resuming their day-to-day activities.

Many street vendors and hand cart vendors have set up their stalls along the TRC Chowk-Batamaloo axis in the city, selling fruits, vegetables, fresh juice, tea and snacks at

many places and continue with their business activities throughout the day, officials said.

They said some shopkeepers have also opened their shops partially in the civil lines areas of the summer capital Srinagar and at few areas in the outskirts of the city.

There has been a significant increase in the movement of private and public transport, except buses, in uptown city including in the commercial hub of Lal Chowk, the

officials said.

They said the authorities have not put curbs on the movement of people anywhere in the Valley.

The officials, however, said security forces have been deployed at some places, including market places, to instill a sense of security among the people so that they can carry out their day-to-day activities without fear.

The situation in Kashmir is improving with each day, they said.

However, life in down-

Owaisi accuses Maha govt of ignoring Muslims, Dalits Jalna, Nov 9: All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) president Asaduddin Owaisi has alleged that the BJP-Sena government in Maharashtra has ignored the woes of Muslims as well as the Dalit community across the state and discriminated them.

Addressing an election rally of MIM candidate Azmat Sohel Siddiqui for Jalna Municipal Council polls yesterday, Owaisi said both the political combines (BJP-Sena and Congress-NCP) in the state kept aside the interest of these communities all these years.

"They are twin brothers and have turned a deaf ear to the problems of Muslims and Dalits," he said, urging people to vote them out of power.

Owaisi alleged that BJP wanted to run the country on principles of Manu

MIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi. (an ancient Hindu legal code) by scrapping the Atrocities Act, which protects the Dalits.

Also, they want to dilute the Constitutional framework, he alleged.

On reservation issue, he sought to know why the former Congress-NCP government in Maharashtra did not ensure reservation to the Maratha community during their rule.

He also slammed the cur-

rent BJP dispensation in the state for skirting the issue of giving reservation to Muslims in government-run and aided educational institutes and jobs.

Muslims have been demanding implementation of the Sachar Committee and 5 per cent quota for the community in Maharashtra.

He also criticised the Maharashtra government for "allowing" the release of Karan Johar's 'Ae Dil Hai Mushkil', which featured Pakistani actor Fawad Khan in a cameo.

Owaisi also came down heavily on the government over the 'settlement deal' of Rs 5 crore proposed to be paid by the filmmakers to the Army Welfare fund and said," Its extortion in the name of Indian Army. It's an insult to the soldiers who are sacrificing their lives on the border. (Agencies)

Modi shows how little he cares about ordinary people: Rahul on currency change New Delhi, Nov 9 : Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi blasted on Wednesday Prime Minister Narendra Modi's decision to replace Rs 500 and Rs 1000 banknotes to take on illegal transactions.

In a series of tweets, Gandhi questioned how replacing Rs 1000 notes with Rs 2,000 notes was going to make hoarding of black money more difficult.

Gandhi expressed concern for farmers, small traders and housewivesthe sections that usually keep liquid cash with them for daily expenses.

"Once again Mr Modi shows how little he cares about ordinary people of this country-farmers, small shopkeepers, housewives-all thrown into utter chaos," Gandhi tweeted.

While Modi's move is expected to unearth undisclosed money stashed in the country and check its flow, Gandhi raked up the issue of bringing

Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi at Congress Working Committee meeting at AICC HQ in New Delhi.

back black money parked abroad-a promise repeatedly made by BJP leadership during the 2014 general election campaign.

"While the real culprits sit tight on their black money stashed away abroad or in bullion/ real estate. Well done Mr Modi," he tweeted, taking digs at the PM. Gandhi's reaction comes after his party maintained that it welcomed any crackdown on black money and corruption but expressed concern over the inconvenience the move may cause to farm-

ers, rural populace and families in the wedding season.

"Congress has always supported any step against black money and will continue to do so," party chief spokesperson Randeep Singh Surjewala ahd said.

But he remained critical about the government's decision to circulate Rs 2,000 notes. "Won't cancelling large denomination notes and replacing them with even larger denominations enable black money hoarders to stash even more money," Surjewala said. (PTI)

Student moots idea of stirring motorists' conscience to check New Delhi, Nov 9: The pollution caused by motorists idling their vehicles at short halts or red lights has prompted a school student to come up with an idea which, if implemented, could stir their conscience with pithy messages and protect the environment.

Vehicular pollution is a major contributor to overall air pollution as witnessed in the national capital wrapped in a thick blanket of smog which caused respiratory problems and eye irritation.

Priyanka Panda from Bhubaneswar received the 2016 IGNITE Award from the President on Monday for her innovative idea aimed at reduc-

ing pollution and saving the environment.

Her basic idea is to add a display next to the odometer, where the monitor can send an alert that the driver is wasting the fuel and causing pollution.

"Most of the time, while travelling, people do not care to turn off the car's engine when at red light or short halts," said Panda.

"This releases harmful pollutants in the air and wastes fuel. So, I thought of ways in which this could be prevented," she said.

She suggests that whenever a vehicle's engine is idling, a message/alert should be displayed next to the odometer.

The space near the odometer could be used to set up a digital screen which would display a warning message that will pull at the rider's conscience.

The messages could be: "You have spoilt two years of a child's life" or something like this to remind people about the damage they are causing to the world, Panda said.

The number of years may be calculated by estimating the amount of pollutants released during that interval of time.

Panda plans to suggest this idea to various vehicle manufacturers. She wants to become a doctor and considers former President A P J Abdul Kalam as her biggest inspiration. (PTI)

town city and other parts of the Valley, including district headquarters and towns, remained affected for the 88th straight day due to the shutdown call of the separatists.

Most of the shops and business establishments in these areas were shut.

While students across the Valley were not attending schools due to the strike, the government educational institutions at most places were open and teachers were attending their duties, the officials

said.

The attendance in other government offices and banks has also considerably improved, they said.

As many as 83 persons, including two cops, have been killed and thousands others injured in clashes between protestors and security forces since unrest began a day after the killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani in an encounter with security forces on July 8.

(PTI)

Nitish Kumar Supports Decision To Withdraw Rs. 1000, Rs.500 Notes

Narasimha Rao's grandson

Former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao's grandson N V Subhash.

Hyderabad, Nov 9: Former Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao's grandson N V Subhash has been named a spokesperson in the new team of Telangana BJP office bearers announced here today.

Subhash, who joined BJP ahead of 2014 elections, had worked with the Congress earlier.

"I joined BJP after the process of nominations (for 2014 elections) was over.

Because, some might would

say I joined BJP for party ticket. The party (BJP) is encouraging me. I am looking forward to my job," he told PTI. "I see him (Prime Minister Narendra Modi) in the shoes of my grandfather.

My grandfather took the historic step of liberalising the economy.

This demonetisation of big notes is one such bold step by Prime Minister Modi," Subhash said.

The BJP state office bear-

ers have been announced seven months after K Laxman took over the reins of the party.

Laxman, who became state BJP president in April last, sought to balance caste equations in the party executive, giving representation to backward classes, scheduled castes and scheduled tribes.

The vice presidents are G Ramakrishna Reddy, T Rajeswara Rao, M Dharma Rao, S Malla Reddy, Venkataramani, Vanitha, Sankineni Venkateswara Rao, Y Geetha, Kasam Venkateshwar Yadav and P Mohan Reddy.

The General Secretaries are Chinta Samba Murthy, Premender Reddy, G Manohar Reddy and T Achary.

The other members of the state BJP team comprise 10 secretaries and 10 spokespersons, among various other committees.

(PTI)

Centre to examine demands of private Haj, Umrah operators Nitish Kumar today "welcomed" Centre's decision to withdraw Rs. 1000 and Rs. 500 currency notes

Patna, Nov 9: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar today "welcomed and supported" Centre's decision to withdraw Rs. 1000 and Rs. 500 currency notes saying it would help country's economy in the long run.

Replying to a question on Centre's decision to take out Rs. 1000 and Rs. 500 notes from the market, Mr Kumar "welcomed and supported" the decision.

"In the beginning people might face some inconvenience but taking everything into account, it would yield positive results," Mr Kumar, who is also JD(U) National President, said.

He was talking to mediapersons at Patna airport before leaving for Bettiah, district headquarters of West Champaran, from where he is starting his "Nishchay yatra" from today.

Deputy Chief Minister

Tejaswi Yadav and senior Congress minister Madan Mohan Jha accompanied the CM to the launch of "Nishchay yatra" which is aimed at taking feedback from people on implementation of prohibition and start of "seven resolves" which has been adopted by the grand secular alliance ministry in the state as policy of governance for next five year.

"I think the country's economy will benefit from this decision. That's why I am welcoming and supporting the decision of withdrawing Rs. 1000 and Rs. 500," he added.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi last night announced decision to demonetise Rs. 1000 and Rs.500 currency notes from midnight last night as a step to fight menace of black money in the country. (Agencies)

Janata Parivar talks: Mulayam meets Ajit, Sharad

Mulayam Singh Yadav.

New Delhi, Nov 9: Samajwadi Party President Mulayam Singh Yadav today held deliberations with RLD chief Ajit Singh and senior JD(U) leader Sharad Yadav in separate meetings as leaders of 'Janata Parivar' outfits look to form an alliance for the Uttar Pradesh assembly polls early next year.

Yadav's younger brother and his party's UP unit chief Shivpal Yadav, a keen votary of the alliance, was also part of the confabulations held at the residence of Mulayam, who later left for Lucknow, the SP sources said.

RJD chief Lalu Prasad is also in the capital. In a show of solidarity, all

these leaders besides JD(S) chief and former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda had come together for the SP's silver jubilee celebrations in Lucknow on November 5 after Shivpal Yadav gave a call for unity among erstwhile Janata Dal leaders.

The key to any unity will be how many seats Mulayam Singh Yadav is willing to concede to parties like RLD, which has influence in western UP, and JD(U), which has little traction in the state but is making concerted efforts under its president and Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar to carve a niche for itself.

(PTI)

New Delhi, Nov 9:The central government will examine the demands of private tour operators who facilitate Haj and Umrah pilgrimages, particularly those pertaining to service tax and restoration of Haj quota, Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi said on Wednesday.

He was speaking to a delegation of several private Haj and Umrah tour operators who met him here and submitted their grievances.

All India Haj-Umrah Tour Organisers Association (AIHUTOA) Chairman Baba Kolsawala said that for the past 35 years, the private players, who operate parallel to the Haj Committee of India, have rendered yeoman service to pilgrims.

"Earlier, the private tour operators were exempt from Service Tax on the lines of the Haj Committee, and the pilgrims going through the private operators did not get government subsidies," Kolsawala said.

Seeking an end to "discrimination" vis-a-vis the Haj Committee of India, he said the ST is now an additional burden on the private operators and must be abolished, especially since Haj is a religious obligation.

On the issue of quota, the AIHUTOA has demanded restoration of the 20 per cent quota which was reduced due to the expansion of the Haram Sharif and demanded a further hike in quota to match the increased population.

Kolsawala also urged for proper distribution of the Haj quota between Haj Committee and AIHUTOA which is not being done now.

"The submission and scrutiny of private tour operators' files for quota allotment by the ministry must be completed well before the start of the next Haj season," Kolsawala said.

Additionally, they pointed out that the Indian and Saudi Arabian government already provide free medical services to Indians and all pilgrims going for Haj pilgrimage.

Accordingly, there is no need for a separate medical insurance for the pilgrims and it should be replaced with a compulsory Group Accident Compensation Insurance policy.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Naqvi said it was a fruitful round and the government would examine the various issues pre-

sented by the AIHUTOA. "The centre has been encouraging online applications for the next Haj to enable people get an opportunity for going on the pilgrimage with ease and complete transparency," Naqvi said.

During Haj 2016, he said around 4,600 people applied online, or about 11 per cent of the total applications received across the country.

Of these, Maharashtra topped with 10,960, Kerala with 9,257, Uttar Pradesh with 5,407, Telangana with 2,983, Jammu & Kashmir with 2,426 followed by Gujarat's 2,425 online applications.

Naqvi added that the Indian government would request Saudi Arabia to increase the quota for Indian Haj pilgrims.

This year, around 99,903 pilgrims travelled to Jeddah for Haj from 21 embarkation points across India through the Haj Committee, and another 36,000 went through the private tour operators.

Besides Kolsawala, the meeting was attended by AIHUTOA President Shaikh Aarif, Vice-Chairman Shaukat Tamboli and other senior officials. (IANS)

Solution to triple talaq from within Muslims: RSS women wing New Delhi, Nov 9: Amid a raging debate over instantaneous triple talaq, the RSS's women wing says that the solution to the issue should come from within the Muslim community.

Seetha Annadanam, All India General Secretary of Rashtriya Sevika Samiti, said, "All women should have uniform justice and there should be no discrimination in that.

"We have also passed a proposal on the issue of triple talaq in the past. From the point of view of safety of women and what is currently going on in the community, this must happen. The problem has risen from the community so the answer will also come from within."

To a question on whether there should be a codified muslim personal law, she said, "That is something the Muslim community has to think about. The question has risen from there and the answer too will come from there. As a woman I will

Image for representation purpose. say there should be justice for everyone. But we can't interfere in their personal laws and with Quran."

Rashtra Sevika Samiti is organising a three-day conclave from November 11 for its volunteers. The theme of the programme is the role of the family in nation building and cultural preservation through

family. Nearly 2,500 participants are expected at the event.

The event will be inaugurated

by RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat.

Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan and Goa Governor Mridula Sinha will also be attending it. Paralympic silver medalist Deepa Malik will be felicitated at a valedictory function. (PTI)

Maha economic activist welcome demonetisation announcement Mumbai, Nov 9: In the wake of demonetisation of certain currency notes, a group of activist from Maharashtra said they had campaigned for scrapping of high denomination notes and even written a letter to Prime Minister Narendra on the issue as recent as October 26.

Arthkranti, a group of likeminded activists that was founded by Aurangabadbased activist Anil Bokil, has been campaigning for the scrapping of Rs 1,000

and Rs 500 denomination for some time.

"Arthakranti on October 26 had sent a letter asking Prime Minister Narendra Modi to implement the demands of Arthkranti specially the scrapping of denominations. The JanDhan yojana was also part of our demand and it has covered maximum population so far," Yamaji Malkar, trustee of Arthkranti said, "The denominations like Rs 500, Rs 1,000 and Rs 100 cover 95 per cent value of

Indian economy. The average daily income of common man is Rs 150; hence we argued that higher denomination notes are more used for stashing cash. It was more helpful for blackmoney generation than any use to the people," Malkar said.

Bokil first met Modi in 2012 when he was Gujarat CM and he had assured Bokil of implementing his recommendations, according to Malkar. (PTI)

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10

Sensex crashes 1,689 points on black money crackdown, U.S. election Mumbai, Nov 9: On frantic selling, stock market benchmark BSE Sensex crashed nearly 1,689 points and Nifty plunged by over 541 points on early U.S. election trends showing Donald Trump's lead while government's move to withdraw notes of higher denominations cast shadow on cash-focused sectors. Consequently, the Sensex nosedived by 1,688.69 points or 6.12 per cent to slip below the crucial 26,000-mark to trade at 25,902.45 with all the sectoral indices led by realty, consumer durables and auto tumbling by up to 10.78 per cent.On similar lines, the Nifty dropped 541.30 points, or 6.33 per cent, to 8,002.25.Sentiment suffered a jolt following government's surprise move to ban Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 currency notes in a bid to curb black money, triggered allround selling, dragging down the key indices form their key levels.Besides, meltdown in global equities as polling numbers suggested that marketfavoured Hillary Clinton

Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) building in Mumbai is struggling in her bitter battle against Donald Trump for the U.S. presidency dampened sentiments.Moreover, the rupee weakening against the U.S. dollar by 23 paise to 66.85 also had a bearing on the sentiment.Most of the 30-Sensex constituents led by M&M, ADani Ports, BhartiAirtel, Bajaj Auto, Hero MotoCorp, ICICI Bank, Sun Pharma, Cipla, HDFC Ltd, ONGC and Hind Unilever were trading in negative terrain, falling by up to 5.77 per cent.Real estate stocks bore the brunt as the sector is expected to feel the heat of the government's move to

phase out of the old Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 currency notes. Major losers were DLF, Sobha Developers, India Bull Real Estate, Godrej Properties, HDIL and Unitech, down by up to 15 per cent.Meanwhile, Brent oil prices too dived 2.65 per cent to 44.82 per barrel in Asian trade.In Asian region, Hong Kong's Hang Seng tumbled 2.73 per cent, Japan's Nikkei down 2.235 per cent while Shanghai Composite Index fell 1.32 per cent.The U.S. stocks futures S&P plunged 4.45 per cent on Wednesday.

(PTI)

Deposits under tax exemption limit may not draw I-T scrutiny New Delhi, Nov 9: Housewives, farmers and those whose annual income is within the tax exemption limit may not be hounded by tax authorities for depositing up to Rs. 2.5 lakh of the now-defunct higher denomination currency notes in bank accounts, a top government official said today.

After withdrawing Rs. 500 and Rs. 1,000 notes from circulation, the government allowed individuals to deposit the same in their bank accounts till December 30 and get smaller denomination ones or new Rs. 500 and Rs. 2,000 bank notes.

These deposits, however, will be scrutinised to catch tax evaders and black money holders.

But those falling within

the income tax exemption bracket Rs. 2.5 lakh need not worry regarding their cash deposits in banks except for suspicious cases, the official said.

In a surprise move, Prime Minister Narendra Modi last night announced demonetisation of Rs. 1,000 and Rs. 500 notes with effect from today to fight the menace of black money, fake currency, corruption and terror financing.

"Housewives can deposit up to Rs. 2.5 lakh and pay no tax. There could be problem if one goes to deposit Rs. 20 lakh," the official said.

"Tax officials are not going to go after those who deposit Rs. 2-3 lakh, but those who are going for

Lucknow, Nov 9: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav on Wednesday asked the Centre to allow high denomination currency for expenditure in upcoming marriage season, even as state police has been asked to keep vigil near banks to maintain law and order after the decision to scrap Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes.

The chief minister also urged the Centre to ensure that the decision did not have any adverse impact on the poor, farmers and villagers.

Akhilesh, who is heading the Samajwadi Party government in the poll-bound state, said the Centre should arrange special camps in villages for exchanging existing currency notes saying banks were not easily accessible in the rural areas.

The opposition has termed the Centre's step as hasty and ill-timed coming in the season of harvest and marriages.

Uttar Pradesh police were alerted to maintain strict vigil near banks and other places to maintain law and order "Director General of

Police Javeed Ahmad has issued directives to all district police chiefs stating that there may be serious law and order issues after the announcement.

"Patrolling and visibility (of force) should be there at market areas, near banks, post offices," Additional Superintendent of Police in DGP office Rahul Srivastava said.

He said police officers have been directed to talk to traders bodies and petrol pumps and keep an eye on situation in rural areas.

The situation became difficult for commuters this morning with many petrol pumps closing down claiming that they were out of stock, while in shops, customers were turned away by traders, who were not ready to accept notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 denominations.

Police has been deployed at petrol pumps to control the crowd.

After the announcement caught people by surprise, long queues were seen at ATMs and petrol pumps last night.(Agencies)

Image for representation purpose.

Mumbai, Nov 9: Rupee plummeted by 23 paise to 66.85 against the US dollar in early trade today on the government's surprise move to ban Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes in a bid to curb black money.

Besides, an early trend suggesting Republican Donald Trump's lead in US presidential election also influenced the trading sentiment.

However, a fresh demand for the American currency from importer weighed on the domestic currency, but dollar's tum-

bling against other rivals overseas on strong Trump showing in US election minimised the fall, traders said.

Yesterday, the rupee had ended higher by 12 paise to close at one-month high of 66.62 following heavy dollar unwinding by banks and exporters amid capital inflows.

Meanwhile, the benchmark BSE Sensex crashed below the 26,000-mark by plunging 1,688.69 points, or 6.12 per cent, to 25,902.45 in opening trade. (PTI)

Real Estate industry opposes ban on construction work in Delhi-NCR

Japan's SoftBank writes down India investment by $560 million New Delhi, Nov 9 : Japan's SoftBank Corp has booked an investment loss of 58.14 billion yen (USD 560 million) on its investments in India including cab-hailing firm Ola and e-commerce company Snapdeal.

In the earning statement for six months ended September 30, SoftBank wrote off 58.14 billion yen in the value of shares in its investments in India, which include ANI Technologies, owns country's largest cab aggregator Ola, and Jasper Infotech, which runs e-commerce marketplace Snapdeal.

Of that, 29.62 billion yen was due to a currency impairment.

"Gain or loss arising from financial instruments at FVTPL (fair value through profit or loss) comprises mainly changes in fair value of preferred stock investment including embedded derivatives, such as ANI Technologies Pvt

Ltd and Jasper Infotech Private Limited in India, designated as financial assets at FVTPL," SoftBank said in the earnings statement.

The Japanese firm had led a USD 210-million investment in Ola and USD 627 million in Snapdeal in October 2014. It made follow-on investments in both firms.

Both Ola and Snapdeal are looking at raising fresh funds to sutain operations amid growing competition from rivals.

Bengaluru-based Ola has so far raised about USD 1.2 billion from a clutch of investors including Tiger Global Management, Matrix Partners, SoftBank Group and Didi Chuxing.

Last year, Snapdeal.Com raised USD 500 million from Chinese e-commerce firm Alibaba Group, Foxconn Technology Group and existing investor SoftBank Group, which then valued the Delhi-based firm at about USD 4.8 billion post money.

SoftBank has so far invested close to USD 2 billion in India and earlier this year it stated that it is looking to scale up the investment to USD 10 billion in next 5-10 years.

Last month, it said it will form a new fund with Saudi Arabia's public investment fund to invest as much as USD 100 billion in the global technology industry in the next five years.

"My goal is to become the Warren Buffett of the tech industry. We're aiming to be the Berkshire Hathaway of tech," SoftBank Group Corp Chief Executive Masayoshi Son said after the earnings announcement.

For the July-September quarter, SoftBank posted a net profit of 512 billion yen, compared with 213 billion yen the year before, boosted by gains from the sale of stakes in Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba Group Holding Ltd and Finnish game maker Supercell Oy. (PTI)

Image for representation purpose. high-value deposits, disclosures will be sought by the tax department."

Listing three major positives of the government's move, the official said over medium to long term, it will help increase official size of the economy,

improve tax collection and provide more resources to banks for onward lending.

"It will have an impact on inflation as well as tax buoyancy. Cash for lending will also increase.

Mid-term both direct and

indirect taxes will go up," he said.

"Official size of the economy will increase dismissing fears of cash crunch. Instead of spending cash, you can spend through bank account, cheque, or electronic means... For smooth replacement, cash for cash will be rationed because if you allow an indefinite amount, there could be a run-on the banks.

According to a source, the entire replacement currency will be there over the next 3-4 weeks.

On the rationale of introducing new Rs. 2,000 notes, the source said since 86 per cent of the highvalue currency was lying idle, there was a need to replace the old with the new. (PTI)

Rupee dives 23 paise New currency notes in ATMs on black money crack from Friday: Govt down, US poll trend New Delhi, Nov 9: The

UP CM Akhilesh Urges Centre to Allow High Denomination Currency for Wedding Expense

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav said the Centre should arrange special camps in villages for exchanging existing currency notes.

P11

BUSINESS

The stoppage of construction work and then starting it again takes lot of time, he said, adding that labourers would also return to their native place.

New Delhi, Nov 9: Realtors' body CREDAI today opposed the NGT order banning construction activities in DelhiNCR saying this will not help in solving the pollution problem and rather impact adversely the delivery of real estate projects.

The association demanded that crop residue burning should be stopped and streets should be proper landscaped in the national capital region to deal with the pollution issue.

National Green Tribunal today passed a slew of measures to improve the ambient air quality in the national capital including banning construction activities and operation of stone crushers and brick kilns for a week in Delhi-NCR. Reacting to this order, CREDAI President Getamber Anand said: "A holistic 360 degree view should be taken to find out the real cause of pollution. By banning construction, solution will not be found. In developed countries, this does not happen."

"Crop burning should be stopped. There should be proper landscaping on the streets in the Delhi-NCR. Loose earth causes dust and this problem should be fixed.

Banning construction activities is not the answer. This will not help," Anand said.

The stoppage of construction work and then starting it again takes lot of time, he said, adding that labourers would also return to their native place.

"The ban on construction work will delay the delivery of projects," Anand said.

"Pune and Bengaluru depsite having as much construction activities as NCR do not have dust pollution because of effective landscaping all over the cities by the municipal bodies," he observed.

The green panel came down heavily on Delhi and other neighbouring states for not taking steps to control stubble burning and directed them to give complete mechanism on implementation of its directions by tomorrow to curb air pollution. (PTI)

new hard-to-fake Rs 500 and Rs 2,000 currency notes will be available at bank ATMs when they start operating again from Friday, Finance Secretary Ashok Lavasa said today.

"There are going to be some difficulties which they (people) will face but for their convenience, a number of steps have been taken by the government, there are facilities to withdraw money from ATM and exchange currency at banks, withdraw money from accounts," he said on government withdrawing Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes from circulation to crack down on black money and counterfeit currency.

People, he said, do understand the objective behind the move. "And I'm sure they will cooperate in dealing with the difficulties and inconvenience that they might face. And eventually things will settle down."

Lavasa said people need money for transaction so for replacement that cur-

Image for representation purpose. rency is being introduced.

"RBI will very strictly monitor it," he said. "For doing any transaction there are different ways, government's intention is to move towards cash less transaction."

The ATMs will open day after tomorrow and at many places they will open tomorrow, he said adding new notes will be available at ATMs. Asked about the slump in stock market indices, he said, the, "The market would have reacted to several other developments. Let's wait and

watch how things pan out."

"If there is anything required to be done by them I am sure they will take a look and take appropriate decision at the right time," he said on market regulator Sebi looking into the crash.

Chief Economic Advisor Arvind Subramanian said: "I think this is an important step. What the government has taken in the fight against corruption, counterfeiting and black money. So I think over the medium term we will see the benefits probably.

(Agencies)

Despite ban, Maggi back to winning ways after a year: Nestle New Delhi, Nov 9: A year after Maggi made a comeback following a ban of over five months, Nestle India is looking to consolidate its leadership position in the noodles segment, and re-grow the overall category that has shrunk due to trust issues with consumers over food safety.

Besides, the company which launched 25 to 30 new products across categories in the last three months, is working to grow the categories in its pursuit.

"The (Maggi) brand was clinically dead in June 2015 when the crisis happened but at the same time, I am happy to say that today, it is knocking at 60 percent market share and we are back to leadership," Nestle India Chairman and Managing Director Suresh Narayanan told PTI. Maggi was banned by FSSAI in June 2015 citing presence of lead beyond permissible limits and labeling regulations on taste enhancer 'MSG'. At the time, Nestle India withdrew the product from the market.

Before the ban, Maggi commanded a market share of around 75 percent. Following legal battles, the popular noodles brand was back in the market in November

last year.

"We are not yet back to where we were but we still have a journey to traverse but we are back strongly to leadership," Narayanan said.

According to estimates, in 2015, the overall noodles segment in India was valued at around Rs 2,300 crore.

"This is about 20-30 percent less than what it should have been...Because of the unfortunate seed of doubt that was planted on Maggi, two things happened -- one was that level of trust in noodles itself became a suspect because we were the market leader by far," he said.

"To a certain extent, the category was shrunk because the market leader was not there and the category came into question," he added.

Some of the other categories in snacking such as biscuits and chips have been beneficiaries from the Maggi episode, he felt.

When asked by when Nestle India expects Maggi to achieve preban market share, he said: "It is difficult to put a time."

With the whole episode behind, Nestle India is now looking ahead with renewed vigour and fo-

cus on nutrition while expanding in other categories in oder to be counted among the best FMCG firm in India.

"We have in the last three months launched 25-30 new products across categories, not just in Maggi but in coffee, chocolates and confectionery, milk and nutritions, in all our portfolio. This is the single largest window of the new product launches that Nestle India has undertaken in its 104 years of history in the country," he said.

Narayanan further said: "This came directly out of that desire to do what we do best as a company. To offer quality, safe products and nutritious products across variety of categories we operate in."

When asked if the company planned to continue with the slew of product launches, he said: "The challenge for Nestle, which operates over 2,000 brands globally, is not what to launch but when to launch.

The mandate that I have taken for myself and for my team, is to keep continuing the engine of innovation and renovation in fast changing India."

For the next two quarters, the company will assess the performance of the new products and see which ones are to be continued and which needed a relook, he said. (PTI)

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DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 10

P12 Italy made me a matured footballer, says Jose Callejon IANS Rome, Nov 9: Spanish football player Jose Callejon reckons that playing in Italy has made him more matured and stronger player.

The 29-year-old said in Italy the game is more tactical and organised as a result it helped him to improve himself.

"The game is more tactical, teams are well organised but are much improved in this way. I feel that I have matured and become a stronger player," Callejon, who moved to Napoli from Real Madrid in 2013, told Spanish radio station Onda Cero on Wednesday.

Speaking on upcoming developments the Partenopei forward said: "I cannot complain, things are going well and I hope to continue in this way...Leaving Spain was hard, playing at Real was my dream, but I thought it was time to leave for more playing time and in the end it was the right choice."

He said, "I was happy, I was fine, but any player wants to find space. Regardless of Mou's choice I had already decided to leave. I knew Ancelotti was coming but I never talked to him. The decision had already been taken."

"I was on holiday, I sent a message to Rafa Benitez and he asked me if I liked the idea of following him to Naples, it was a big project and I immediately said yes. It was the right choice," Callejon said.

Wayne Rooney rejected move to China, says Beijing club chairman IANS Beijing, Nov 9: At a time when some big players have decided to move to China to be part of the lucrative Chinese Premier League, Manchester United captain Wayne Rooney has rejected a move to Beijing Guoan during the summer, it has been revealed. Rooney was out of favour in Jose Mourinho's first team this season following a poor performances but returned for the 3-1 win over Swansea City on Sunday in which he had two assists.

According to Beijing Guoan honorary chairman Luo Ning, the Chinese club had approached Rooney who reportedly earns in excess of £300,000 (around $371,677) a week on a contract which runs until 2019 before the start of the current season, only to be turned down. "We indeed made an approach for Rooney at the beginning of the season but he's informed us that he wants to stay in Manchester United," the Daily Mail quoted Ning as saying on a Bejing sports radio show on Wednesday. "Rooney says he'll keep playing in the Premier League as long as his health allows.

We even met with his agent (Paul Stratford)."

Rooney is currently on international duty with England, where he is expected to captain his country in Friday's World Cup qualifier against Scotland.

Malouda shines in Delhi’s emphatic Root, Ali put England on top win against Chennaiyin Match Awards: Club Award: Delhi Dynamos FC

Fittest Player of the Match: Souvik Chakraborty

Winning Pass of the Match: Florent Malouda

Suzuki Swift Moment of the Match: Bernard Mendy

ISL Emerging Player of the Match: Kean Lewis Florent Malouda was in the thick of the action against Chennaiyin FC. New Delhi, Nov 9: Delhi Dynamos FC thumped defending champions Chennaiyin FC 4-1 as more than 15,000 home fans cheered on at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi on Wednesday. Florent Malouda scored a brace, while Richard Gadze and Kean Lewis scored one each as Delhi did the double over the Super Machans this season.

Bernard Mendy scored through a solo effort to salvage some pride for Chennaiyin but it couldn’t stop Delhi from going top of the table.

The game started out evenly with both teams trying to get more of the ball. Raphael Augusto was

the first to force a save when his attempt went straight to Delhi goalkeeper Antonio Doblas.

Delhi asserted their superiority in midfield and it showed when Gadze broke the deadlock in the 15th minute. Malouda’s powerful shot from distance was spilled by Karanjit Singh and Gadze put the rebound into the back of the next.

It was all Delhi with the trio of Lewis, Malouda and Gadze wreaking havoc on the left side of the pitch. The second goal seemed round the corner for the Lions and Malouda obliged in the 25th minute with a leftfooter into the bottom corner. Gadze had set up

the Frenchman for his first ever Hero ISL goal.

Delhi seemed to be running away with the game when Mendy brought Chennai back with a solo effort in the 37th minute. Going past three men, he unleashed a low drive past Doblas to make it 2-1. The game heated up in the closing minutes of the first period with a few rash tackles coming in, but Delhi managed to go into the break with their lead intact.

Chennaiyin head coach Marco Materazzi brought on Jeje Lalpekhlua with an eye on goal and the Indian striker almost got the goal early in the second half.

Malouda soon forced Karanjit into a brilliant save

Hero of the Match: Florent Malouda and then a minute a later the Lions had their third goal as Lewis brilliantly finished off Malouda’s pass in the 54th minute.

With the clock ticking, Chennaiyin tried to get back into the game as Jeje and Hans Mulder sent a couple of chances into the stands. At the other end, Marcelinho threw a big scare into the Super Machans camp but his header didn’t hit the target. The game meandered along before Malouda sealed the deal with his second of the night, showing his experiencing by being in the right place to tap in Badara Badji’s header five minutes from time.(Agencies)

Joe Root and Moeen Ali shared a 179-run stand, with Root notching up his 11th Test century. (AFP) IANS Rajkot, Nov 9: Excellent batting by Joe Root and Moen Ali helped England post 311/4 in their first innings on the opening day of the first cricket Test against India here on Wednesday.

Coming together after England lost three wick-

ets in the first session of the day, Root and Ali added 107 runs between them to help the visitors to a comfortable position.

Root scored 124 before being caught and bowled by pacer Umesh Yadav.

Ali was on the cusp of a well deserved century as he was unbeaten on 99 at

the close of the day's play.

Ben Stokes, who was batting on 19, was giving Ali company at stumps.

Brief Scores: England (First Innings): 311/4 (Joe Root 124, Moen Ali 99 batting; Ravichandran Ashwin 2/ 108)

Spain's Carolina Marin costliest at badminton league players' auction

Mumbai City bolstered ahead of Pune ISL clash IANS Mumbai, Nov 9: Mumbai City FC will be bolstered by the arrival of four Bengaluru FC footballers ahead of their Indian Super League (ISL) match against FC Pune City here on Thursday.

The four footballers -captain Sunil Chhetri, Udanta Singh, Amrinder Singh and Lalchhuanmawia Fanai - were away fulfilling their commitments for ILeague champions Bengaluru FC who recently lost 0-1 in the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) on November 5.

Mumbai coach Alexandre Guimaraes admitted that the presence of the players is a "blessing" for the team.

"We are glad to have them with us. That makes the group much bigger and gives me resources and possibilities to which

players to start. At the end of the tournament, this is like a blessing for us," the Costa Rican coach said on Wednesday in an ISL release.

The quartet have alr e a d y trained although the c o a c h didn't assure they will be named in the first team, remaining noncommittal, only saying they are "hungry to be in the squad and be part of this Mumbai City season".

But Guimaraes could be tempted to hand Chhetri a place in the starting eleven after rich form in the AFC Cup. Chhetri was also the leading goal

scorer for Mumbai City last season and was involved in half of Mumbai City FC's 16 goals scored last year.

"We are prepared to play the right game and try to win. The other team h a s changed a little bit, their approach, and know they cannot lose. That is the attraction that we have," he added.

Mumbai City FC are leading the table with 15 points from nine matches but Guimaraes said his team still has work to do before reaching their first target of qualifying for the semi-finals.

"We cannot fall into this trap that we are almost

there. We have a good chance and we have to keep going."

Mumbai City won their first leg match against away at Pune.

But the visitors will be confident after scripting a good win against former champions Atletico de Kolkata (ATK). Pune are seventh with nine points and will jump to the top four if they manage a win.

"After the last match, this group is good. The players are ready. After the match against ATK, the group is fantastic. Mumbai beat us in Pune. We will try to beat them tomorrow. We know it's difficult but we will try," Pune coach Antonio Habas said.

Pune haven't lost an away match this season but are yet to score a goal in Mumbai, a concern for Habas.

Pune have conceded in every of their eight matches so far, an area their Spanish coach will be looking to fix.

West Indies cricketer Pollard granted NOC, says WICB IANS Bridgetown (Barbados), Nov 9: All-rounder Kieron Pollard has been granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to play in the upcoming Ram Slam T20 competition in South Africa, the West IndiesCricket Board (WICB) has confirmed.

The confirmation from WICB president Michael Muirhead on Tuesday contradicts earlier media reports that Pollard was denied an NOC for the tournament starting on Friday, reports CMC. During an interview on Massy United Insurance's Line &

Length Network, Muirhead said it was never the board's intention not to grant Pollard an NOC, but rather explain to him why the process on this occasion

was taking longer than usual.

"It was not denying him any NOC, it was explaining to him why it was taking longer. Normally, we would have responded so

in seven days he would have gotten it," explained Muirhead on Tuesday.

"But I think it went over.

But before the seven days expired I said let me explain to him why it is taking a little longer time and it is because we have written to all the boards, the presidents and CEOs." WICB's letter to presidents and CEOs of all the International Cricket Council's (ICC) full member boards has notified them of its new policy to impose a 20 per cent levy on the contract fees of its players taking part in T20 tournaments overseas.

Carolina Marin IANS New Delhi, Nov 9: Rio Olympic champion Carolina Marin of Spain was bagged by Hyderabad Hunters for Rs 61.5 lakh, becoming the costliest buy in the Premier Badminton League (PBL) auction for players held here on Wednesday.

The second highest bid went for South Korean woman shuttler Sung Ji Hyun, with Mumbai Rockets paying Rs 60

lakh for her.

Denmark shuttler Jan 'O' Jorgensen proved to be the third costliest after he was bought for Rs 59 lakh in the auction held here at a city hotel. The Dane went to Delhi Acers.

Nehwal went to Awadhe Warriors for Rs 33 lakh.

Denmark's Viktor Axelsen too got a price of Rs 39 lakh landing up with Bengaluru Blasters, as did Wan Ho Son who was clinched by Delhi.

However, India's Rio Olympic silver medallist P.V. Sindhu went to Chennai Smashers for Rs.39 lakh - way below expectations. Her illustrious compatriot, Saina

None of the men's singles badminton "Big Three" players - Chinese duo of Chen Long and Lin Dan and Malaysian superstar Lee Chong Wei -- will play in the PBL.

Indian Boxing Council launches fight nights Agencies New Delhi, Nov 9: Great opportunities await Professional Boxers in India as Indian Boxing Council (IBC) is all set to resume its Pro Boxing Fight Nights. IBC on Wednesday announced four Pro Boxing Nights over the next four months.

IBC is the pro boxing governing body licensed by the World Boxing Organisation, World Boxing Association and the Commonwealth Boxing Council, to sanction, run, govern, train, regulate, structure and conduct professional boxing in India. The season unfolds from the gateway of North-East India, Guwahati, with the IBC-3 Fight Card in the month of January. This is a precursor to IBC's mega plans to construct a complete training and competition structure across the country.

The IBC-3 Fight Card will have on offer an Indian National title, a North-East Zone title and an Assam State title belt for Guwahati.

"We have already signed some big names of Indian Boxing, who are eagerly waiting to launch their pro career with

IBC Fight Nights. Talks are in final stages and signing are being completed with many other mega stars. The exciting announcements will be made soon," said IBC President PK Muralidharan R a j a .

"Amat e u r boxing has its o w n space worldwide, but all b i g names i n this sport have earned stard o m only after they turned professionals. There lies the future," he added.

"IBC has drawn a year-long calendar for pro boxing competitions at various levels. The pan-India structure will cover all geographical zones - North, South, Central, East, West and North-East - in India," he further said.

IBC-3 Fight Card at Guwahati on January 14, 2017, will feature more than 50 rounds of pound for pound action, where lead Indian professionals will challenge their counterparts from Thailand. IBC-4 is scheduled for January 28, 2017, at Hyderabad, to be followed by IBC 5 at Kolkata on February 15, 2017. IBC4 and IBC-5 will feature challengers from Korea and China respectively.

The season will culminate with the IBC 6 grand title bout night at Chennai on March 11, 2017, where the IBC national titles in six weight categories for men and three weight categories for women will be decided. The champions of the night will also qualify for the Asian Title Challenge, to be hosted by IBC in Season 2. Season 2 will also feature World Title challenge bouts.

The marquee fights in the IBC 3, 4 and 5 Fight Nights will feature eight Rounds each, while the other major bouts will be of six rounds each. The marquee bouts in the title night will be decided over ten rounds whereas other belts will feature eight-round contests.

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Editor: Prahlad Hammey

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