Wednesday 7 December 2016

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Vol. II

TOP 12 PLACES FOR HONEYMOON IN NORTH EAST INDIA

Issue 139

Dibrugarh, Wednesday, December 7, 2016

Reimagining the liberal project

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Jayalalithaa buried with full state honours REST IN PEACE

Former Tamil Nadu chief minister J Jayalalithaa was laid to rest at MGR Memorial on the Marina Beach in Chennai on Tuesday evening with full state honours.

Jayalalithaa was laid to rest at MGR Memorial on the Marina Beach in Chennai

The body was taken from Rajaji Hall in Triplicane at around 4.30pm in a flowerdecked cortege. Her mortal remains were flanked by her close aide Sasikalaa Natarajan and her family members on one side and her successor O Panneerselvam and other party leaders on the other.

Around 10,000 police and army personnel guarded the procession as it moved towards Marina, a little less than two kilometres away, where she was laid to rest. Before her coffin was lowered into a freshly dug pit at around 6pm, several leaders, including Governor Vidyasagar Rao, Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Ghulam Nabi Azad, and Union ministers Venkaiah Naidu and Pon Radhakrishnan paid their tributes.

The funeral ceremony also

She was laid to rest with full state honours

The body was taken from Rajaji Hall in Triplicane at around 4.30pm in a flower-decked cortege. had a few rituals according to Vaishnavite custom. As her coffin was lowered the Madras Regiment paid gun salute.

Earlier, President Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid their last respects to Jayalalithaa at Rajaji Hall.

People started flocking to Rajaji Hall after her body was brought there around 5.30am from her Poes Garden residence. Jayalalithaa died on Monday night after suffering a cardiac arrest while undergoing treatment at Apollo Hospitals.

From the hospital, her body was taken to her Poes Garden

She passed away on December 5 after a cardiac arrest

residence, and from there it was brought to Rajaji Hall.

cadre were inconsolable, and wailing rented the air.

The body, wrapped in the national flag, was kept in a semi-inclined position in Rajaji Hall, and there was long queue of mourners outside. The queue extended for almost a kilometer on the Anna Salai. AIADMK

Shops, eateries and pharmacies in Chennai remained closed. City commute was badly hit, with autorickshaw and cabs off the road. Only a limited number of MTC buses plying.

Live IED recovered from the ambush site along Digboi Pengaree Road Laxman Sharma DIGBOI Dec 6

A powerful Improvised Explosive Device (IED) was recovered here this morning from the same site where militants ambushed an Army convoy on 19th November last month along the PengareeDigboi Road passing through the Upper Dehing Reserve Forest in Tinsukia District of Upper Assam.

According to reliable sources, the explosive was detected during the course of clearing the jungles by the local people of Pengaree at around 10.30 am.

On being immediately reported, the Pengaree based Kumaon Regiment of Indian Army rushed and cordoned off the site ensuring safe movement of people and vehicles on the said road. The task of clearing the bushes and herbs along the said road stretching from Kherjan in

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P9 Special Elite Unit claims responsibility of Longding Ambush Pranjal Bhuyan Dibrugarh, Dec 6

In a joint press release, the special Elite Unit composed of Naga Army of NSCN (K), Meeyam gi Yawol Lanmee (MYL) of KYKL and Miyam gi Fingang Lanmi (MFL) of KCP has claimed responsibility for the attack on 16 Assam rifles convoy killing two personnel and injuring eight others on 3rd December between Lolchang and Nginu, 25 KMs from Longding town in Arunachal Pradesh near

India-Myanmar border on Saturday. The press statement also informed that the special elite unit is also responsible for the incident at Manipur on June 4 2015 where 18 Army Personnel were killed in their attack at Paraolon in Chandel District.

The statement further added that during the ambush one Assam rifles vehicle was completely reduced to ashes and all the occupants killed.

Refuting the statement that only two jawans were killed and eight injured during the

A team of bomb squad from Dinjan based Army HQ reached the place and safely treated the bomb weighing around 2 kilograms with utmost care Digboi to Pengaree was being undertaken by the people of the area after the ambush incident of 19th where two soldiers of Indian Army were martyred.

Following the recovery of the

of the said explosive from the very site indicates that the militant might have planted similar IEDs in the areas to cause large scale disasters which perhaps did not blast except the one on the ill-fated day. While

people also suspects that the device might have been left behind in their bid to escape after the commission of the act as evident from the recovery of other after-ambush materials including a live RPG, jungle

boots, tarpaulin, water bottles from sites.

Meanwhile, a team of bomb squad from Dinjan based Army HQ reached the place and safely treated the bomb weighing around 2 kilograms with utmost care which was later made to explode with a huge tremor in a nearby safe location amidst the thick reserve forest without any untoward happening at around 4.30 pm It is pertinent to add here that the people engaged in clearing the jungles along both sides of the said infected road for clear visibility of the place have also been running the risk and must carry on with the noble task utmost care failing which might result in unpleasant happenings.

As such, the local administration ought to exhibit some amount of enthusiasm and boost the locals engaged since yesterday in the mission’ make the road visible from distance and avert sudden and close range mishaps’.

ambush, the militants groups claimed that more than nine AR jawans including an officer was killed on the spot and several others injured. They however said, “There was no casualty or injury on their side.”

The statement further informed that SS Khaplang, the Chairman of the NSCN (K) who is also the chairman of United Liberation Front of Western South East Asia (UNLFW), an umbrella body of militant groups from the northeast has praised the Special Unit for successfully carrying the attack.

Sonowal directs PWD to start repair works of roads of the state within a week A Staff Reporter Guwahati, 6 Dec

PENGAREE AMBUSH

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Pages- 12

P6

India mourns Amma ET Bureau Chennai, Dec 6

5.00

EXPECT TO SEE GOOD ROADS SOON

Chief Minister today directed the Public Works Department (PWD) to start the repair work of the roads of the state within one week. Chairing a review meeting of the department at the conference hall at CM Secretariat today Chief Minister said that 250 crore rupees have already been released for the work and the process for inviting tenders for repair work has already been completed.

The Chief Minister also directed the PWD to complete the repair work of all the roads within January so that another 300 crore rupees earmarked for the schemes can be fully utilised. Saying that an amount of rupees 299 crore has already been released by the Central Government to build a 364 kilometre road under PMGSY, Chief Minister Sonowal directed to cover all roads of the state under PMGSY scheme.

Stating that no anomaly would be tolerated in road construction Chief

250 crore rupees have already been released for the work Process for inviting tenders for repair work has already been completed Also directed the PWD to complete the repair work of all the roads within January so that another 300 crore rupees earmarked for the schemes can be fully utilised Minster Sonowal said that those contractors who have done substandard work and those who have failed to complete work in a time bound manner would be blacklisted. Sonowal also directed to complete the repair work of the Silchar –Karimganj – Hailakandi Road at an early date and said that he himself would travel by the road to see the pace of the repair work. He also instructed the top officials of the department to review the pace of repair work on a daily basis.

Lohit District Administration orders to remove hoardings and objects erected along National and State Highways

ACF demands Govt to roll back decision of observing 25th Dec as ‘Good Governance Day’ The Arunachal Christian Forum (ACF), an apex organisation of all the Christian denominations of Arunachal Pradesh has pleaded with the state Chief Minister Pema Khandu to convey their demand to roll back the decision of observing 25th December as ‘Good Governance Day,’ with the central government.

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The information was relayed

by ACF President Khyoda Apik in tow with his general secretary Toko Teki during a press

conference held at Arunachal Press Club today.

Elaborating on this, the ACF president asserted that the observation of Good Governance Day on 25th December which is celebrated by Christians across the globe as the Birth Anniversary of their Lord Jesus Christ, would disturb the secular facets of Indian Constitution in general and also cause inconvenience to the followers of Christian faith in the state of Arunachal Pradesh in particular, which according to president Apik, constitutes some more than 65 percent of the population.

“Surely Christians are no different in observing good governance but cannot, as it makes Christmas a mockery,” Apik lamented of the collusion between Christmas day and the Good Governance Day before adding that, “Even if December 25 is declared as Good Governance Day,, it can be observed one day later rather than on Christmas day as it will enable Christian government servants to be part of the celebrations.”

Reiterating on this, GS Toko Teki added that ACF is not against the idea of observation

of good governance day itself but rather, against its imposition by the government establishment on the specific date of 25th December which coincides with the Christmas Day celebration.

“As a matter of fact, ACF is all for observation of good governance day all throughout the year and its observations should not be stressed on one particular day and not least on the Christmas Day as it beats the idea of a secular nation concept assured under the Indian Constitution,” Toko further asserted.

It is pertinent to mention here that in the year 2014, the BJP led NDA Government at the centre had declared 25thDecember as Good Governance Day to honour the Birth Anniversary of BJP’s first and former Prime Minister of India Atal Behari Vajpayee. And while the state BJP in a press release had sought to downplay its collusion with the Christmas day by stressing that it is a nonobligatory decision, the central government in its original declaration had announced for the day to be a working day for all government establishment, much to the objection of the followers of Christian faith.

Police removed all the posters, large hoardings, etc within 100m along the national and state highways from TPC Point to Tezu Khollah ET Bureau Tezu, 6 DEC

The Lohit District Administration has issued an order to remove all types of hoardings and objects erected/ located along the national and state highways within a distance of

100 meters that obstruct driving or distract drivers with immediate effect in pursuance of the of Supreme Court Committee on Road Safety.

Acting upon the directive, the district transport officer,

along with town magistrate and police removed all the posters, large hoardings, etc within 100m along the national and state highways from TPC Point to Tezu Khollah for smooth flow of traffic in and around Tezu Township area.

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A Staff Reporter Itanagar, 6 Dec

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7

P2 Aries You're going to think this is a strange period.

It isn't, Aries. It's just that today won't be like others. Look around and you will see that people are either depressed or trying to keep up a good façade. It's as if lots people - you in particular - are being confronted by their dreams without being able to act on them. This isn't an easy situation to be in.

Mass Conversation at Tinsukia Sahitya Sabha Bhawan

Taurus Today, Taurus, you might get the chance to take a trip around the world to visit fabulous palaces and experience a timeless love, and all - get this totally free! This could be called a sensitivity test to the universe of Walt Disney.

Goodness knows that you aren't a total stranger to it! By now, you've learned from hard experience that fantasyland is for Mickey Mouse.

Gemini You will float today, Gemini. You won't talk, you will be sleepy, and your mood won't be the best. OK, perfect! Get back into your novel, take several siestas, and do as little as possible, because that's what you want to do. Don't worry, busy beaver, this period will pass.

And you know what? You aren't alone here. It happens to everyone from time to time. Flow with it.

Cancer You're certainly in a strange mood today, Cancer. True, things have been going smoothly for the past few days, but be careful not to be fooled. Pride goes before a fall, as they say. Today you should be wary of your behavior toward your lover. Your partner's attitude may dismay you, but you're the one who has strayed from reality. Stay away from any trigger points that could explode into an argument.

Leo It will be as though you're in a new and hopeful world today, Leo. The people you meet will be cordial and caring, and the future will seem like a bright, attractive place to live. In other words, it's like a fabulous dream, and the alarm clock is bound to wake you up soon.

True, the glorious feeling won't last long, so take advantage of the day. Reality is sweet at times.

Virgo Because you have a tendency to brood over everything right now, Virgo, a day like this can't be anything but beneficial. It has been difficult for you to find satisfaction within the realm of the known world lately, but today offers you a journey into another perception, one that's intangible and unreal. You may find it gratifying, especially if you try some artistic, esoteric, or religious activity.

Libra There are days when you feel wonderful without being able to attribute the feeling to any real event. Of course, your rational mind will search for a reason for your happiness. But if you count the number of times when you do things against your will, it becomes obvious that logic and reason don't always apply to this world. Don't even try to understand. Just enjoy!

Laxman Sharma Tinsukia, 6 Dec: CPI(ML) Tinsukia district committee today organized an anti corporate-communalism day at Tinsukia unit of Sahitya Sabha Bhawan where members from CPI (M), Krishak Mukti Sangram Samity, Satra Mukti Sangram Samity, ASHA and All Assam Muslim Yuba Parishad were present during the mass conversation at the Day. Comrade Bankim Chandra Gogoi has presided over the meeting while Comrade Subrajyoti Bardhan explained the aims and objectives.

Subrajyoti Bardhan have slammed both the Congress and BJP party for failing to take action worthily when Babri Masjid was demolished by so the right wing organizations such as BJP, RSS, Bajrang Dal and Durga vahini on 6 Dec 1992. Mr Bardhan has termed it as the murder of democracy. He said Narasimha Roa who was the then PM couldn’t do anything therefore he termed both the Congress and BJP as communal and corporate minded political party.

Mr Bardhan further added that Demonetisation decision was taken to favour high net worth individuals and that Prime Minister Narendra Modi have taken the decision as he have failed to bring black money as promised.

The meeting proposed for an Anti Communualism Mancha to be form at Tinsukia district.

Several important people such as Comrade Subhas Sen Secretary of CPI(ML) Tinsukia District Committee, Purnanda Baruah President of Tinsukia Sakha Sahitya Sabha, Bablu Khan Vice President of All Assam Muslim Yuba Parishad, Mamtaz Begum ASHA worker, Manav Chetia Leader of Krishak Mukti Sangram Samity Tinsukia, LakhyaJyoti Gogoi President of Satra Mukti Sangram Samity Tinsukia District Committee, Harendra Nath Borthakur Former President of Tinsukia Xakha Xahitya Xabha,Abdul Rauf Noted Educationist and Social Worker, Amulya Khataniar Veteran Journalist of Tinsukia were present at the Mass Convention.

Guwahati BSF apprehended Bangladeshi cattle smuggler A Staff Reporter Guwahati, 6 Dec: Troops of Guwahati Frontier of Border Security Force apprehended one Bangladeshi National cattle smuggler yesterday near the International Boundary under Coochbehar District of West Bengal.

The cattle smuggler has been identified as Md Muzaff Nxa from Lalmanirhat, Bangladesh. He was apprehended by the troops of BOP Palkarhat, 34 Bn BSF while he was trying to smuggle the Cattle from In-

dia to Bangladesh. He has been handed over to local police for further legal action. Besides, BSF troops of Guwahati Frontier also seized 118 cattle heads, having an apprx value of Rs. 7,06,200 /- and miscellaneous value Rs.2,07,293/-, on the intervening night of 5/6 Dec 2016.

BSF troops are always alert towards the issues of trans-border crimes and illegal infiltration and are making all endeavors to contain such trans-border crimes.

Scorpio The day ahead should be excellent, Scorpio. For the past several days you've been searching for meaning in life.

There have been changes in your chief occupation, new relationships, bursting ambitions.

Today you can let all of that soul searching go. You're likely to whip up a huge mixture of the whole experience and be grateful for the thrilling life you lead right now!

Sagittarius You will probably be perfectly in tune with the day ahead, Sagittarius. Of course, it's tempting to run away from the reality and hardships of the moment. But at other times, when you're so compassionate and find it easy to listen, like today, life is really rewarding. People find your company soothing and pleasant, and they're likely to thank you for it. Aren't days like this great?

Ex- Congress minister Atuwa Munda addressing a press meet at Rajiv Bhawan in Dibrugarh on Tuesday. Photo by manoj pandey Dibrugarh

Assam Agriculture University have released a book on Conservation of Lac Insect Genetic Resources and a workshop was held regarding the same today at Jorhat.

Photo by Nekib Ahmed.

Capricorn Don't try to control what happens today, Capricorn, because you won't be able to fathom what's going on.

How could it be otherwise when collective currents are interfering with your life?

You may do some soul-searching because you may feel that you're only a grain of sand in a vast universe. Don't spend too much time staring at your belly button.

Look around you for some of the answers.

Aquarius This kind of strange day doesn't come around often, Aquarius. It will seem as though you no longer know what you want. Do you have a yen to take off for the other side of the globe? People won't understand you, and you will think that explaining yourself is pointless. The best thing to do may be to unplug from your usual activities and go for a walk. You have nothing to lose.

Pisces Do other countries represent real openings for you? This is a question that you will soon have to answer. This may be true, but it may also be an illusion that gives you a simplistic explanation for the dissatisfaction you feel now in your professional life.

Think about it, because some important decisions you're about to make depend on it.

You aren't the only one to consider, either.

Sports

Jorhat to host 40th All Assam Chess Championship ET Correspondent Jorhat, 6 Dec: The 40th All Assam Chess Competition to be commenced on Jorhat from 14th of December to 18 of December as intimated to press by the organizing committee through a press release.

The competition is organized by Jorhat District Chess Association and the venue will be Assam Agriculture University indoor stadium. The competition

will be of three categories, 0-9 years, 9-13 years and 13 to 15 years.

The organizing committee put an entry fee of 300 rupees for District affiliated chess player and 600 for special entry fee. Prize money of 2000 rupees along with a trophy for the first prize, Prize money of Rs 1700 and a trophy for the second prize, Prize money of Rs 1200 and a

trophy for the third prize and prize money of 1000 and a trophy will be felicitated to the winners of all the categories of both boys and girls.

All the winners of all categories will be selected for the Assam team as mentioned by the organizing committee. The committee request to contact 9864257507 for any inquiries.

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7

P3

NWS calls on Chief Minister, reiterate earlier proposal to felicitate Nabam Runghi

ET Bureau Itanagar, 6 Dec: The Nabam Welfare Society (NWS) called on Chief Minister Pema Khandu today. Nabam Runghi, the first agency councillor of NEFA admin-

istration, who is credited for selection of Itanagar as the state capital also accompanied.

In a brief meeting that followed, Runghi narrated how he was able to convince the

then governor of Assam, B K Nehru to choose Itanagar as the state capital.

Places such as Pasighat, Basar and Yachuli were other potential sites identified for state capital but lost

the race to Itanagar due to his persuasion coupled with high compensation demands, Runghi claimed.

The Chief Minister appreciating his contribution in making Itanagar as the state

capital, assured to take up the pending request of NWS for according recognition to Runghi.

NWS had earlier proposed for a state level felicitation on a day of state importance, life-time honorarium and land allotment within the capital city to Runghi.

The CM assured that the matter will be taken up in the cabinet meeting to be held on December 8 next and a collective decision will be taken in this regard.

On a related note, Khandu informed that the state government has sanctioned Rs 1 crore for a football stadium in Pakke Kesang, which will be named after late NabamTajam for helping establish the Pakke Kesang administrative headquarter in 1966.

Peme Khandu expressed that the news of her demise came as a shocker not only for people of Tamil Nadu but for the people of the entire country.

Late JayaramJayalalitha championed the cause of the rural and urban poor by introducing subsidized food canteens, providing free laptops to thousands of school pupils and students and launching other populist schemes like giving away food mixers and grinders to families.She played a key role in the economic development of Tamil Nadu and politically set a benchmark unrivaled and unparalleled, Pema

On the occasion, Agriculture Deputy Director A Pao highlighted and explained the history of World Soil Day and importance of soil health and soil health card.

District Horticulture Officer Tezu R N Megeji explained the importance of organic farming in the maintenance of soil health and its management.

ity affairs Lilung Lingfa elaborated on the life and achievements of Dr Ambedkar, including his struggle in providing equal rights to scheduled castes, scheduled tribes and OBCs, and contributions in framing the Constitution of India.

BJP Minority Morcha president Loku Sono and spokesperson Biro Langdo, K Neri also spoke on the occasion.

Among others, Ziro MLA Tage Taki, former MLA Kipa Babu, Tani Lofa and other senior party leaders of BJP attended the function.

Khandu said.

“I believe, leaving this mortal world will not diminish the love and affection showered on her by the people and her soul will remain immortal. So would her footsteps and the contributions made to Tamil Nadu and the country during her long and memorable decades of political career”, the condolence letter further added. “ I know this would be the most trying times for the people of Tamil Nadu and family members to cope with the irreparable loss, I hope my humble words of consolation would ease the grief even if a little. In this moment of grief, me, my family, colleagues in the Government and people of Arunachal Pradesh extend our solidarity with you and share the pain inflicted on you and the people of Tamil Nadu by one of the greatest truths of life”.

He while praying Lord Buddha to bestow the dear and near ones with strength to bear the irreparable loss Pema Khandu wished the soul of one of the ablest daughters of Tamil Nadu rest in peace in heavenly abode.

Around 500 Anganwadi workers and helpers across West Siang district attended the first ever District Level Conference of Anganwadi Workers and Helpers at Gumin Kiin today.

First ever District Level Conference of anganwadi workers and helpers ET Bureau Aalo, 6 DEC : Around 500 Anganwadi workers and helpers across West Siang district attended the first ever District Level Conference of Anganwadi Workers and Helpers at Gumin Kiin today.

Addressing the gathering, Usha Rani president and A R Singdhu secretary of All India Federation of Anganwadi Workers and Helpers exhorted the officials of West Siang district to work hard to ameliorate the condition of women, child and desti-

World Soil Day observed at Tezu

ET Bureau TEZU, 6 DEC : World Soil Day was observed at Tezu as part of an awareness programme at office premises of District Agriculture Office, Tezu on December 5 last.

A Staff Reporter ITANAGAR, 6 DEC : The BJP State Minority Morcha celebrated the 60th death anniversary of Dr B R Ambedkar in a befitting manner today at its party headquarters in Itanagar.

Addressing the youths and executive members of the morcha, In-charge of Minor-

Parliamentary Secretary Nyamar Karbak urges people to keep surrounding clean and hygienic

Chief Minister Pema Khandu expresses grief over sad demise of J Jayalalitha ET Bureau Itanagar, 6 Dec: Writing a letter to O Pannerselvam Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, Pema Khandu the state Chief Minister have expressed grief over the demise of J Jayalalitha. “ With profound grief I write to share the grief of losing one of the most charismatic, influential and dedicated leaders ever produced by India.

Lovingly called Amma,who worked for the poor and the downtrodden and left behind a political legacy to cherish”, the letter expressed.

BJP celebrates 60th death anniversary of Ambedkar

Also, ill effects of inorganic farming and indiscriminate use of chemicals were shared during the lecture.

Fishery Officer T Dutta emphasized on soil health management in context to fish cultivation, while ADO (PP) S Chaitom presented reports on status of soil health card and urged progressive farmers to cooperate with the Agriculture and its allied departments to achieve the target of soil sample collection by March 2017.

At least 190 soil health cards

tute of their concern area.

They also disclosed that Anganwadi workers and helpers in India have been instrumental in containing the mortality rate in India through their efforts for many years. The federation is fighting for the benefits of its officials all over India and urged all to be a part of the movement.

Jalley Sonam, state president of AAPAWHU also highlighted many movements taken up in the state for the welfare of labours,

anganwadi workers and helpers in the past.

Techi Yari and Yesi Nalo also highlighted on the significance of the conference, while the Baririjo CDPO spoke about the condition of anganwadi workers and helpers in the district.

Tumar Bagra president AAPAWHU Aalo unit expressed his gratitude to national leaders of its federation for visiting this part of the country to make them a part of their movement.

Loiliang ASM T Mepo, Tafragam gaon burrah S Billai and Loiliang gaon burrah B Tamai also spoke on the occasion.

All the staff, field functionaries of Agriculture and line departments, PRI members, gaon burrahs and progressive farmers of the district attended the programme.

The health camp was organised by Arunachal Pradesh Building & Other

Constructions Workers Welfare Board, in collaboration with Karbak, who is also the MLA of 27th Liromoba Constituency.

Around 500 people were screened for eye check up, Hepatitis-B screening and vaccination, diabetes screening, blood sugar test and other general checkups, which were adminis-

tered by Dr Tomar Kamki, Dr Jombom Kato MD, Eye specialist Dr Tape Kaye, Dr Soyum Potom, Dr Pemin Kamki, along with supporting staffs like lab technicians and ophthalmic assistants from District Hospital, Aalo.

West Siang District Medical Officer Dr Marbom Basar was also present during the health camp.

Saakshar Bharat Programme inaugurated at Hapoli

Awareness campaign at Jairampur to go cashless

were distributed to farmers on the occasion.

Also, ADO (HQ) Sony Muri explained the importance of online registration of farmers and Direct Beneficiary Transfer.

ET Bureau Darak, 5 DEC: Inaugurating a medical health camp at Darak, Parliamentary Secretary Nyamar Karbak called upon the people of Darak circle to stay fit and healthy by keeping their surroundings clean and hygienic.

Lomhom Tangha Jairampur, 6 Nov: Today an awareness campaign was organized jointly by Local Admn. & APP Jairampur as a part of an efforts to guide common masses including local shop keepers and business fraternity to download ewallet/e-banking with an SBI apps on their smartphone to ease themselves for day to day requirements through e-payment transaction at the

back drop of hussle arises out demonitization in the country. During awareness campaign shop keepers, public and heads of deptt of Jairampur circle were seen at the awareness spree which was done at the SBI Branch of Jairampur in Changlang District. The resource persons were SBI representatives from Tinsukia branch who briefed the participants about cashless transactions.

ET Bureau Ziro, 6 DEC : A three-day training programme for preraks on legal literacy and awareness under Saakshar Bharat Programme (SBM) was inaugurated by EAC Mokar Riba at the DC’s Conference Hall at Hapoli, today.

The training programme is being conducted by State Resource Centre (SRC), Naharlagun, in collaboration with Department of Justice, Ministry of Law and Justice for Lower Subansiri, Upper Subansiri, Kurung Kurmey and Kra Daddi districts’ coordinators and preraks of SBM.

Important topics like Domestic Violence Against Women, POCSO Act 2012, Disability Act, Forest Right Act, sexual harassment at work place, and the PCPNDT Act will be covered during the training.

Addressing the gathering, EAC Riba emphasized on their role in creating awareness not just on legal literacy but also on government policies and programs as they work with beneficiaries at grass root level, and exhorted them to actively participate in the training.

Reinstating that Arunachal Pradesh is predominantly a traditional tribal society and

geographically backward, Riba said, “Access to justice for rural community, especially women has not been easy, for which, such legal literacy and awareness programs will not only empower women but will also help in reducing crimes related to women and children”.

Among others, Senior Program Coordinator Anju Michi, advocate Racho Buda, advocate Rosy Taba, ADEO Gyati Taji, district coordinators, preraks and learners under SBM and officials from SRC, Naharlagun participated in the programme.

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7

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Assam Industries & Commerce Minister pays tribute to Tamil Nadu CM J. Jayalalithaa ET Bureau Guwahati, Dec 6: On behalf of the Chief Minister, Assam and Government of Assam, Industries and Commerce Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary today paid homage to the mortal remains of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa at Rajaji Bhavan, Chennai.

lost a compassionate and adorable soul who always worked for the betterment of the poor and the downtrodden.”

The Minister added that, “With this great loss, a void has been created which is irreplaceable.

Her contributions towards the land and the people would always be recalled and looked up to.”

In a condolence message, the Minister said that, “With the sad demise of a dynamic and populist leader, Tamil Nadu and the nation has

Minister Patowary prayed to the almighty for the eternal peace of the departed soul.

Villagers repair roads Sushanta Roy Diphu Dec 6: Presbyterian Church Diphu as part of the social work filled numerous potholes that line up the road connecting the village from the main road near Modern English School. Village headman Robinson Rongpi spoke

about the dilapidated conditions of the road that has been a major cause of concern for the villagers as well as commuters. The road was constructed some 17 years back but the previous Congress government did nothing for its maintenance.

Labourers rue against non-payment of adequate wage

Sushanta Roy Diphu Dec 6: Three wild elephants including two pregnant and a calf were killed when a speedy passenger train hit them at Jogijan near Hojai railway Station in Hojai district on Sunday night.

According to the reports, the herd was crossing the railway tracks near

Jugijan at around 11.50 PM, Sunday last.

ET Correspondent Tezpur, 6 Dec: The Misamari and Barjuli units of Sadow Asom Nirman Sramick Union have expressed their total dissatisfaction over the alleged discrimination over payment of wages to the labourers engaged in the various construction works by the contractors under the Misamari army cantonment area over the last many years.

Officials of NF Railway informed that the incident took place when the herd of elephants was crossing the railway tracks from Kunduli Mari village to Santipur village at a location about 137km from Guwahati.

The labourers’ body in a public awareness meeting held today at Thekerajuli LP School near Rangapara in Sonitpur District alleged that the contractors have been paying only Rs.150 to the labourers engaged for their works. It is focused that the allotted amount is

Kajir Ronghangpi remember

Special Immunisation Drive to begin from 12 Dec

3 elephants mowed down

Sushanta Roy Diphu Dec 6: Glowing tributes were paid to Kajir Ronghanpi , Karbi legendary woman, at a function organized by Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC) at Ethnic Village , Kohora yesterday for the sixth time in a row.

Speaking on the occasion, executive member of KAAC Surjya Rongphar said the legend associated with the name of Kajir Ronghanpi and the given name Kaziranga needs research to establish the mythical claim. The program was chaired by executive member Bidyasing Rongpi, Kache Rongpipi, joint secretary of KAAC Dheneswar Engti.

TRIBUTES TO DR. BR AMBEDKAR

ET Correspondent Silchar, 6 Dec: The third round of Special Immunisation Drive to cover the left out and dropped out children and pregnant women will begin in Hailakandi district beginning December 12.

A meeting of the District Task force chaired by Deputy Commissioner Moloy Bora discussed in details the plan of action and strategies to attain cent per cent immunisation of children in the age group of 02 years and pregnant women.

Deputy Commissioner Bora directed the senior officials of Health and Family Welfare and block officials to put in all their efforts to bring all the left out children and pregnant women under the Special Immunisation Drive.

Bora said the administration will extend all possible help

and support to the health and block officials to make the immunisation programme a success.

Joint Director U.C. Phangchu said the department has formulated a comprehensive action plan to bring under the immunisation drive all the left out children and pregnant women. A power point presentation was also made on the occasion.

The meeting was attended, among others, by Additional CM&HO, DPM, DME, consultants of WHO, UNDP and block officials.

It may be mentioned here that 99 per cent coverage of pregnant women and 98 per cent for children in the age group of 02 years have been already achieved during the first two rounds.

Rs. 250 to Rs. 300. However, siphoning off half of the amount by the contractors has deprived off the labourers from their legitimate wage thereby leading them to dissatisfaction.

the contractors engaged in the construction works held a meeting wherein a decision of sincere dealing with the issue was resolved thereby brining a ray of hope for the daily wage earners.

In protest against this unethical act of the contractors who have as per the allegation maintaining a nexus with the army authority siphoning of the labourers’ money, registered a strong protest during the month of September of the current year.

However, as an outcome, for finding out a solution to the issue officials from the department of labour, District administration, Sonitpur, representative from the labour union and

But it is matter of regret that even after the passage of a couple of months no any positive result is achieved as the contractors are yet to fulfill their commitment.

Hence, President of Sonitpur District committee of the labourers’ body, Rahimuddin and Secretary Babul Nath said that if without any delay the contractors and the concerned authority readdress their problems they would go for a vigorous movement.

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal led the State in paying rich tributes to Dr. B.R. Amedkar on his 61st death anniversary today.

On this occasion a function held at the premises of Assam Secretariat where Sonowal offered floral homage at the life size statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar, an architect of the Indian Constitution. Chief Secretariat V.K. Pipersenia, Additional Chief Secretary Rajiv Bora and host of other dignitaries were present at the function.

Ex-servicemen Rally held at Likabali

Hmar people celebrates Sikpui Ruoi Sushanta Roy Diphu Dec 6: The Twoday-long Sikpui Ruoi, the harvesting festival of Hmar community organized by Joint Sikpui Ruoi Celebrations Committee Concluded at Joysing Doloi Auditorium here yesterday.

Hundreds of delegates from Manipur, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Dima Hasao and Karbi Anglong districts took part in the festival. The participants also turned

INAUGURATION OF SCHOOL BUILDING AT TEOK

Newly constructed School Building of Teok Lower Primary School was inaugurated by Mrs Renupoma Rajkhowa, MLA Teok Constituency today in an inaugural function. The land for the school building was donated by the Teok Tea Estate.

The newly constructed building was funded by National Highway Authority as a compensation for loss of land due to construction work of 4 Lane Road. Photo and news by Nirmalendu Pathok

up from Delhi, Pune , Mauritius and Germany.

On Sunday, a seminar cum workshop was organized on issues related to Hmar Community at Covenant High School Auditorium, papers were presented on the Hmar status of Kuki Chin tribes

by RH Hminglien another paper on Sikpui Ruoi or the winter harvest festival was presented by Vanlallien Pulamte.

ET Bureau Likabali, 6 Dec: Chhappan Division had organised an Ex-Servicemen (ESM) Rally at Likabali Military Station on Sunday. Ex-Servicemen and Veer Naris from Dhemaji, North Lakhimpur, Pasighat, Daporijo, West, East & Upper Siang, Upper & Lower Subansiri, Papum Pare, Kurum Kumey, Kradadi and Along Districts of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam participated in the event in large numbers. A

total of 1759 people including 600 ESM, 52 widows, 06 Veer Naris and their family members graced the occasion.

One of the major highlights of the event was interaction of Ex Servicemen with representatives from Defence Pensions Office, Defence Placement Office, Ex-Servicemen Welfare Officer of Govt of Assam, Defence Recruitment Office and ECHS Polyclinic which assisted in addressing most of

their grievances and queries. ESM, Veer Naris and their dependants appreciated the concern shown by the Chhappan Division and efforts made for organising such an interaction at Likabali. In addition to the redressel of grievances of Veterans and War Widows, the event also facilitated their emotional re-union with serving soldiers. Vibrant participation from the ESM, Veer Naris and their dependents made the event a success.

Ulfa-I has 21 new recruits: Police ET Bureau Guwahati, Dec 6 : At least 21 youths, including a woman, have joined the Paresh Baruah-led Ulfa (Independent), police sources said.

After the attack on a convoy of the Army's 15 Kumaon Regiment, in which three jawans were killed and four injured, security forces launched a massive search operation in various villages in Tinsukia, Dibrugarh and Sivasagar districts and those on the AssamArunachal Pradesh and Assam-Nagaland borders.

linkmen for Ulfa (I), have fled the villages where search operation is on. But at least 21 youths from Tinsukia district, including a woman, have reportedly joined the outfit. Most of them have a history of petty crime," a police source said. The group also includes computer-skilled youths.

"Some of the youths,

Assam Police DGP

Investigation revealed that those involved in the attack were not local.

"Cadres from different districts were involved in the attack. Most of them, however, were from Nagaland," sources said.

Mukesh Sahay has already said the militant group has been recruiting fresh cadres, adding, "The formation of the United Liberation Front of Western South East Asia (UNLFW), an umbrella body of militant groups from the northeast, has aided Ulfa (I)'s resurgence. Headed by Naga rebel leader SS Khaplang has been playing a vital role."

Sahay went on to say that police have identified those involved in the convoy attack.

On Sunday, Tinsukia Police arrested one Tarun

Moran alias Jantu from the Lakkhipathar area.

Police said he is a prime linkman of the outfit and involved in an extortion racket.

"Police have seized several demand letters from his possession," security sources informed. However, denying that Tarun is a member of Ulfa (I), the outfit publicity secretary Arunodoi Asom in an email statement blamed security forces for plotting fake arrests and violating human rights. "Tarun is a spy of the security forces and it's nothing but a stunt," Ulfa (I) said.

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7

REST OF

P5

NORTHEAST

Three day 'solidarity' fair and exhibition to Telengana deputy CM euphoric over commence at Rajnagar from today in Tripura Tripura's success in literacy movement Agartala, Dec 06: The three-day 'solidarity fair and exhibition' , organised annually by the state's left front government to commemorate the tragic event of destruction of 'Babri Maszid' on December 6 1992 by a large group of fanatical Hindus at Ayodhya as well as to strengthen communal amity and harmony. The three day fair and exhibition at an abandoned mosque in remote part of Rajnagar under Belonia subdivision, believed to have been built by a Muslim army of Mugal emperor Jehangir between 1618-1621 , is being held every year since 1993 after the destruction of 'Babri Maszid'. During this period the Mughal army had kept Tripura under occupation and un-

leashed severe repression on the people besides destroying places of worship after defeating and capturing the then Tripura king Jashodhar Manikya (1651623).

This year the fair and exhibition will be inaugurated by the minister for health and revenue Badal Chowdury who will be accompanied by CPI (M)'s chief whip in the assembly, MLA Basudeb Mazumder, MLA (Jolaibari) Jashbir Tripura and south district Zilladhipati Himangshu Roy. The fair and exhibitiion will end on December 8 .

The 'Babri Maszid' had been built by the first Mughal emperor Zahiruddin Mohammad Babur's (1526-1530) 'Shia' commander Mir

Baqui Tashkhendi after destroying a towering Hindu temple built by Hindu king Gobind Chandra Gahadwal (11141154) dedicating it to Lord Rama. It had never really been a functional 'Maszid' because of intermittent resistance and many Muslim historians and British administrators had mentioned in their books and gazeteers how the 'Maszid' had replaced the temple.Since the 'Maszid' site and Ayodhya at large had been deserted by the small Muslim population in 1934 after a bout of riots the 'Maszid' had fallen into disuse and fullfledged Hindu worship had started since the year 1949.

A number of court cases had also been filed from March 1951 but they

hanged fire in courts. The Vishawa Hindu Parishad (VHP) had launched a political struggle to restore the original Hindu temple and BJP took up the explosive issue in early 1989.

Finally, fed up with BJP's attempts at gaining political capital out of the issue, large group of fanatics , secretly armed with spades, axes etc, demolished the super-structure of the dysfunctional mosque on December 6 1992 in the name of 'Kar Seva'(Self service), creating a communally surcharged situation across large parts of the country. However, in its judgement on the issue the Allahabad High Court in 2010 had asserted that the 'Babri Maszid' had really been built by destroying a huge temple whose remains had been found in excava-

tions by experts on the site ordered by the high court but the case is still pending in supreme court.

From the same date-that is December 6- next year the left front government of Tripura has been observing this day as a day of mourning to strengthen communal amity and harmony in the country as well as to protect secularism as enshrined in the Indian constitution. The annual fair and exhibition attract a large number of people from within Tripura and Bangladesh. This year leading Bangladeshi journalist Azizul Islam and professor of Dhaka's Jagannath College Chowdhury Shahid Qader will attend and address the gathering of people. (Agencies)

Dimapur DPDB holds last meeting for 2016 3 BJP unit leaders relieved from posts

Jacob Zhimomi addressing DPDB meeting at Dimapur Dimapur, Dec 06: Dimapur District Planning and Development Board (DPDB) held its meeting for the year 2016 at DPDB conference hall on Monday presided by parliamentary secretary, I&FC and chairman, DPDB, Dimapur, Jacob Zhimomi.

The meeting began with a power point presentation

by PWD (R&B) Dimapur division. Referring to the power point presentation, Jacob Zhimomi called on the PWD (R&B) department to take up the projects seriously and to maintain the completion of the project on time.

A detailed report on department of Legal Metrology & Consumer Protection, Dimapur was given by assistant controller, Limatoshi Jamir.

In the meeting the house

Support person with disabilities: Acharya appeals Dimapur, Dec 06: Nagaland Governor P.B. Acharya on the occasion of International Day of Person with Disabilities, appealed to all responsible to join hands and spread awareness to improve the understandings of the people with disability by extending support.

In a press statement issued through PRO Raj Bhavan, the Governor and his wife also hailed all those for their tireless effort rendered for the welfare of the less fortunate who were in need of special attention.

"They are the mentor who went that extra mile in not only teaching and taking care of them, but for having that sincere desire to help, motivate and instil in them the desire to strive and to lead a better life", Nagaland Governor, P.B Acharya said.

It may be mentioned that the International Day of Person with Disabilities is observed on December 3, all over the world to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and well-being of persons with disabilities.

(Agencies)

approved registration of societies of Runrun self help group Old Showuba village, change of nomenclature of Gonyu Memorial Montessori School Chumukedima to Gonyu Memorial School Chumukedima, Eden Garden Institute Burma camp to Eden Garden School Burma camp basing on the verification report submitted by the verification committee.

In regard to construction of toilet in the SDEO office compound, Dimapur the house decided to forward the matter to the concern department.

As for upgradation/recognition from class V-X of Spring Blossoms Academy, Thahekhu village and proposal for opening of Rose of Sharon Academy, Chungaijang Rongmei colony, Burma camp, the

chairman DPDB Dimapur advised the committee of the concern areas to go through the check list and to submit the same in the next meeting, stating that the reports were not found satisfactory.

Renaming of Nagarjan road to Nimedo Sakhrie road would also be discussed in the next meeting of DPDB. Taking part in the discussion, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dimapur Dr. K. Vikato Kinimi informed the house in regard to the outbreak of Dengue fever. He said that CMO office Dimapur have been taking initiative to control the outbreak by spraying larvicidal insecticides (Temephos 50%) in flooded water logged areas and also doing technical malathion fogging in some areas under Dimapur district. Kinimi informed that there were no reports of death die to dengue fever in Dimapur.

However, according to the latest report 123 patients have been diagnosed positive and he expected more numbers by next year. He appealed the board members to highlight in regard to the Dengue and to make aware to their staff and public to keep the area clean and hygienic.

The chairperson wished all the DPDB members Merry Christmas and ended the meeting by mass prayer. (Agencies)

Efforts on to set up Lokayukta in Mizoram: Lalsawta

Mizoram Law Minister Lalsawta Aizawl, Dec 6: Mizoram government has been making efforts to establish a Lokayukta, state Law Minister Lalsawta informed the Assembly today.

A four-member selection committee comprising Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla, Assembly Speaker Hiphei, Justice Hrisikesh Roy of Gauhati High Court and leader of opposition Vanlalzawma has been constituted, he said in reply to a question from K Beichhua of Mizo National Front (MNF).

Lalsawta said an eight member search commit-

tee was set up on November 3 while a quotation for renting a private building for the office of the Lokayukta was floated.

The state finance department and the Department of Personnel and Administrative Reforms has approved recruitment of 35 officers and other employees of the Lokayukta and the proposal was submitted to the state cabinet for approval, he said.

A token provision of Rs 159.34 lakh was also allocated in the state budget for the current fiscal for establishment of the state Lokayukta. (PTI)

Dimapur, Dec 06: In an unprecedented move, the state BJP unit has relieved three party functionaries from their respective posts/ assignments in the party setup with immediate effect. The "office order", signed by BJP unit general secretary (adm) Eduzu Theluo, which was made available to the media, stated that the State unit "as directed by the central leaders" has relieved BJP unit vice president K. James Vizo, v/p Mghato Achumi and spokesman Yanghose Sangtam.

Though no BJP party functionary wished to comment on the issue, the sacking of three senior leaders have been seen as a clear indication that all was not well within the state BJP unit.

There has been growing differences within the party whether to stay or not in the present NPFled DAN alliance government. The issue started off after Mmhonlumo Kikon was unceremoniously sacked as parliamentary secretary, followed by state BJP's memorandum to Governor, attacking its long time ally on charges of rampant corruption.

The step taken by BJP to attack its ally, wherein BJP also has three of its MLAs in the council of ministers, has not been taken too well by the NPF leadership. Of late, few senior NPF ministers had openly come out against the BJP on various issues. (Agencies)

Blockade, ban on Natl projects to continue : UNC Imphal, Dec 06 : The United Naga Council (UNC) has asserted that the ongoing economic blockade and ban on construction of Trans Asian Railways and National projects will continue as the Government of Manipur has miserably failed to honour the letter and spirit of the MoUs and assurance given by the Union Home Ministry.

Explaining its stand, UNC in a statement today said that the Naga people protested five times against the decision of the State Government to upgrade Sadar Hills to the status of a full fledged district and also Jiribam.

All the protests concluded after signing MoUs between the State Government and the Naga people in which it was always mentioned that 'all the stake holders will be consulted' before a final decision is taken on granting district status to the two sub-divisions, added UNC. Stating that land and Nagas are inseparable, UNC said that it is the obligation of every Naga to defend and protect their ancestral homeland and added, 'we will never allow anyone to decide upon our land.'

To resolve the issue amicably, the Ministry of Home Affairs, through its Joint Secretary (North East) invited the UNC to have a joint meeting with the Government of Manipur on November

15 at New Delhi. The proposed meeting however failed as the State Government did not send its representatives, charged UNC. It is clear that the Government of Manipur does not want peace but incite communal disharmony amongst all the ethnic communities living in the 'present State by deliberately creating a situation to divide ethnic communities', further charged UNC. It is time the people of Manipur ask the Government why it did not send it representative (s) for the November 15 meeting, said UNC and also to clarify why it has not spoken out its stand on the issue of Sadar Hills and Jiribam.

This demand has also been raised by the Senapati based Naga People's Organisation.

Keeping mum and deploying thousands of security forces and imposing CrPC 144 'just to grab our land will never deter the Naga people in any way,' asserted the UNC. Stating that the situation in Manipur has become volatile due to the people's unrest and the silence of the Government, UNC said that it is time for the Centre to intervene.

If the Government of India fails to intervene, it should be held responsible for any unwanted consequences, warned UNC. (Agencies)

Deputy Chief Minister (DCM) of Telengana state, Kodiyam Srihari.

Agartala, Dec 06: The visiting deputy chief minister (DCM) cum minister for education of newly created Telengana state, Kodiyam Srihari, showered lavish praises on the Tripura government for success achieving 97.22% literacy rate in the state despite so many problems. He had arrived here to study how Tripura had achieved this

remarkable success on an official trip and visited the Gomati district as well as Khumlung, the headquarter of autonomous district council (ADC) for tribals, yesterday. He attended a high level meeting in the state secretariat yesterday when finance minister Bhanulal Saha, education commissioner Sushil Kumar , director of

school education S.K.Nath briefed him in detail on how the success in literacy campaign had been achieved in the state despite problems of insurgency, poverty and backwardness. In the meeting Kodyam Srihari expressed his keenness to replicate Tripura's success in his own state , Telengana.This morning Kodyam Srihari held a meeting with Tripura's minister for school education Tapan Chakraborty in the state guest house before flying off back to Telengana. He was accompanied during his tour by the director of education, director of adult education and director of state resource department. Before flying back to Telengana Kodyam Srihari said that he would invite resource persons from Tripura for training and guiding teachers and employees engaged in the literacy movement in his state.

(Agencies)

Meghalaya CM sees bigger corruption in the making Shillong, Dec 06: Chief Minister Mukul Sangma continued his scathing attack on the Narendra Modi government for its decision to demonetise Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes and its implementation by saying the move would open up more avenues for corruption.

Speaking to media persons here after the cabinet meeting, Sangma said there has been several strictures from the Supreme Court and the High Court as people have been subjected to agony and inconveniences.

"Every decision, if good for the country, is always welcome but one has to know the art of doing things," he said and added the decision that leads to chaos and even causes loss of life "is unacceptable".

Sangma said the Centre's move was "incompetent and shows complete bankruptcy of ideas".

Talking about the problems

Chief Minister Mukul Sangma. of demonetisation, Sangma pointed out lack of financial inclusiveness and said many housewives keep savings away from their husbands "as some of them have vices".

"The sudden exercise did create several problems for them. In fact, now more corruption is taking place," he said and added that 86 percent of notes circulated are in the higher denominations and there is a parallel circulation of fake currency. "One lady in Tura recently received

three fake notes last week," he said.

He also raised concerns about the security mechanism in using mobile applications like Paytm.

He also questioned if all the literates in the country would be able to understand the language of mobile and computer and instead they would be vulnerable to manipulations.

Sangm a s a w b i g g e r challenges for the future and larger exploitation due to demonetisation.

(Agencies)

Ethnic divide deliberated upon Imphal, Dec 06: A oneday public discussion programme on the topic "Ethnic Divide- A Challenge to the future of Indigenes" was held today at Manipur Press Clubhere under the aegis of the Coalition of the Indigenes Rights (CIRCA).

The public discussion programme was moderated by MU, Centre for Manipur Studies Prof W Nabakumar.

Giving the key-note address of the programme, CIRCA convenor Somorendro Thokchom highlighted the growing need to understand the political changes witnessed in Manipur after its merger with the Indian Union.

Pitching different communities against each other to fight for rights and opportunities, there were clashes/confrontations between Nagas and Kukis, Meiteis and Nagas, Meiteis and Pangals, Nagas and Nagas and Kukis and Kukis.

The adverse impacts bred by the economic blockade called against purported attempts to create Sadar Hills district and Jiribam district have

been compounded by demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes, he said.

The Central Government's alleged internal policy to breed hatred and misery amongst different communities of the State seemed to be making good progress, he remarked.

Backward communities of the North East region were unable to propound positive ideologies and suitable policies in the face of India's Nation building process and the onslaught of globalization.

As a result, ethnic divisions which were created by British colonial rulers' divide and rule policy were accepted as something justified. But it only bred ethnic conflicts and confrontations, Somorendro said.

There is a growing need on the part of CSOs, community leaders and political leaders to understand the reality collectively.

The community leaders and CSOs need to identify the common challenges and resolve all ethnic conflicts and misunderstandings, he added.

Later, the gathering

adopted five resolutions.

The first resolution says that the ongoing economic blockade and counter economic blockade should be lifted and the Government should initiate a dialogue process with different communities and bring a solution.

The second resolution says that CIRCA would launch a campaign christened Actions for Reconciliation and Consensus Building to translate the first resolution into action.

To chart out a collective road map which can secure ethnic rights of all communities was another resolution of the gathering.

The meeting also endorsed the resolution adopted at GM Hall on August 21 last year which proposed establishment of Manipur Legislative Council and make the Manipur Legislative Assembly a bicameral house.

The fifth resolution says that the people of Manipur would support any movement launched by the people of the North East against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill 2016. (Agencies)

EDITORIAL

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7

Today's quote

“

Leaders must be close enough to relate to others, but far enough ahead to motivate them.

– John C. Maxwell

The heart of the problem here are good reasons why the 'Heart of Asia' conference, part of a 14-nation process be gun in 2011 to facilitate the development and security of Afghanistan, is so named. The obvious one is geographical, as Afghanistan lies at the junction of Central, South and East Asia, and also of the ancient trading routes from China and India to Europe. Today it is also a focal point for the region's biggest challenge of terrorism; some of the far-reaching battles against al-Qaeda, Islamic State, etc. will be decided on the battlegrounds of Afghanistan. For India, putting terror centre stage at the Heart of Asia declaration in Amritsar was thus timely and necessary. In tandem, Afghan President Ashraf Ghani and Prime Minister Narendra Modi focussed their concerns on cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan, something even Pakistan's traditional allies at the conference, including China, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Turkey, found difficult to counter. The case Mr. Ghani made was clear: progress and development in Afghanistan are meaningless and unsustainable without peace, and peace is contingent on Pakistan ending support to terror groups such the Haqqani network and Lashkar-e-Taiba. He dared Pakistan to use its proposed development grant to Afghanistan to fight terror on its own soil.

T

However, if every window for engagement with Pakistan is closed for India and Afghanistan, the two countries must closely consider what their next step will be. A lack of engagement may, in the short term, yield some pressure on Pakistan's leadership to act, as it did briefly after the Pathankot attack. But in the long run it may deplete the two countries of their limited leverage as Pakistan's neighbours. It may, for all the affirmations of mutual ties, also succeed in driving more obstacles to trade between India and Afghanistan. In the past year, the cornering of Pakistan by its South Asian neighbours has only yielded deeper ties for Islamabad with Beijing and Moscow, pushed Kabul closer to Central Asia, and moved New Delhi towards multilateral groupings to the east and south. As a result, the measures India and Afghanistan have envisaged in order to avoid Pakistan, such as land trade from the Chabahar port and a dedicated air corridor between Delhi and Kabul, may prove to be insufficient by the time they are put in place, even as Afghanistan is connected more closely via a rail line from China's Yiwu and Tehran. The Heart of Asia process thus remains critical to forging cooperation to realise Afghanistan's potential to be a vibrant Asian "hub".

The politics of exaggeration t first look, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's theatrics on the night of December 1 smacked of the politics of paranoia. Spying Army deployment at a toll plaza near the State Secretariat in Kolkata late that night, she drove herself into a sleepless social media frenzy to "guard our democracy".

Where the Army's Eastern Command clarified that it was conducting a "routine exercise" to test preparedness, Ms. Banerjee insinuated otherwise by resolving to maintain her vigil at the Secretariat till the Army personnel were withdrawn from their task. Not given to being detained by facts, even after the Army cleared the air by clarifying it had duly informed State authorities on the exercise, Ms. Banerjee's Trinamool Congress galvanised the Opposition in Parliament the next day. It kept up the high pitch from a previous uproar over delay in landing a civil aircraft that had her on board. Ms. Banerjee is too sharp, and well-versed with the procedures of administration, to not see through her own conspiracy theories. This is not paranoia speaking, it is a play-as-things-go plan to amplify her voice in national politics. The Modi government's demonetisation drive has given her an opportunity to nominate herself as a rallying force. Projecting random occurrences - a queue for landing clearance at an overburdened airport one day, an Army drill the next - as instances of vendetta against her by the biggest powers that be helps her distinguish herself from the rest of the opposition as the leader in direct combat with the Central government.

This has, of course, been the way with Ms. Banerjee's politics. In the years of Left Front rule, this is how she separated herself from older, established Congress colleagues. She, for instance, kept alive the memory of wounds sustained in a police crackdown. Once she struck out and formed her own party, she switched allegiance freely in national coalitions in the search for her big chance against the Left. It came in 2011, when Left rule ended in West Bengal; her pre-eminence in State politics was sealed in Assembly elections this year when she stared down the combined challenge of the Congress and the Left parties. Now, with the Congress still struggling to get a grip on the political narrative, and no other party able to provide the glue for opposition unity, she has seized the opportunity. Her tactics of exaggeration, of personalising the argument, are clearly aimed at securing herself as the face of the anti-BJP opposition, even as she goes about seeking old friends and foes alike to rally behind her. Today it is demonetisation.

Tomorrow it may be something else. But the tenor of her politics is likely to hold.

A

P6

Reimagining the liberal project If progressive politics and liberal ideas have to survive, there is a need to mainstream our dissent and use an accessible language to convey that The triumphant words of Paul Ryan, the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, that Donald Trump's victory "marks a repudiation of the status quo of failed liberal progressive policies" are a striking indication of a growing sense of unease against not just liberal economic policies, but more importantly the once unassailable liberal political and moral order. This existential crisis faced by the liberal order coincides with a disturbing rise in the popular legitimacy for illiberal politics around the world, including in India. Those modern liberal and progressive ideas are being rejected in their very fortresses in Europe and America should make us sit up and take notice.

Is the liberal dilemma merely about the rise of the right wing capitalising on unemployment, migration, fear of the other, etc.? Or is it also about the failure of the progressive and liberal ideas that has been taken for granted by their advocates, some of whom even wrote obituaries for history?

Moreover, the fact that the underprivileged amongst us, who should have been a natural audience for leftliberal ideas, increasingly support right wing and xenophobic forces should come as a wake-up call.

From anxiety to hatred There is a deep sense of economic, social and cultural anxiety around us, both here in India and abroad. We have known that for long though we didn't appreciate enough what this could potentially lead to. This anxiety is now transforming into a scary opposition to modern values - human rights, multiculturalism, secularism, LGBT rights, among others - that are liberal and progressive. There is today a universal backlash against liberal clichés about multiculturalism and liberal economic policies, notwithstanding their differences.

And leaders of the liberal

edifice seem to be flounder- perception. ing in providing convincing Sins of the liberal answers and alternatives.

The contemporary liberal The ordinary citizen who dilemma has deep historical is suspicious of the out- roots. Liberalism has historisider and anxious about fi- cally spoken the language nancial security is not to be of empire. While the enlightfaulted - he/she is merely a enment project symbolised victim of adverse structural the intellectual supremacy conditions. Where it be- of the West, the colonial comes problematic is when project that followed was his/her legitimate anxieties the material manifestation are manipulated by right- of liberal arrogance. While wing forces to generate po- the colonial masters were litically busy lootand ideoing coloHappymon Jacob nies, liberlogically useful xeals continnophobia and hatred. This ued to extol the values of has become easier over the enlightenment just like years, especially because those American liberals liberals don't address these who justified what the questions seriously and American war machine did creatively anymore, as they abroad, for the liberal demoshould. For them, these are cratic cause, of course. Rislong-settled intellectual ing immigration to Europe questions. While the rise of and the new wave of terror the right wing is a serious today would not have been worry, this then calls into this serious had the Westquestion the fundamentals ern world not destroyed exof progressive politics and isting state structures in the way it is practised.

West Asia in the name of the Notwithstanding the war on terror and other conright-wing pandering of na- venient excuses. tivist insecurities, the bitterThe liberal project proponess against traditional sitioned itself as the ultielites, both the intellectual mate ideology at the end of elites and the wealthy, is the Cold War. However, growing. There is visible neo-liberal economic poliresentment against the lib- cies that wreaked havoc in eral values advocated by the many underdeveloped well-heeled, English-speak- countries are now creating ing journalists, university problems for the First World professors, celebrities, intel- with guardians of the liberal lectuals, among others, order looking increasingly some of who can only be de- uncertain. Notwithstanding scribed as boardroom liber- the many essential differals, preachy and conde- ences between neo-liberalscending. Liberal values ism and progressive liberal eulogised in university politics, there are significant seminar halls, mainstream linkages between the two. media outlets and other While it is true that the libglamorous forums are often eral left has consistently far removed from ground opposed neo-liberal ecozero where people go about nomic policies while uptheir daily struggles and holding socially liberal valview experts with a sense of ues, such conceptual hairsuspicion. Doesn't that splitting seems irrelevant to partly explain why liberal the larger public imaginaelites like Manmohan Singh tion. can't beat the popular legitimacy of an illiberal Bharatiya Liberalism, perhaps with Janata Party leadership? the honourable exception of While it is true that the in- left liberals, today has come tellectual elite is not the to signify progressive but same as the moneyed elite, redundant social values these differences may not and insensitive economic matter much in the popular logic. In its arrogant self-in-

dulgence about the virtues of a universal economic and political model and individual liberty, the liberal project continued to sermonise while looking away from the economic and geopolitical atrocities of the West on the rest. The progressive liberal, by ideological and moral association, is paying the price for the insensitivity of the neoliberal economist. Politicians such as Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, who are seemingly cagey on the many neo-liberal pitfalls, are perhaps an exception to this confusion.

Right-wing regimes have skillfully used this moral double whammy faced by the liberals - elitism of liberal values and the let-down of neo-liberal economic logic - to direct the mounting popular anger against the wealthy and the elite towards liberals and "outsiders". Unlike liberals, right-wingers shrewdly identified themselves with the anger and used the adverse side effects of economic and cultural globalisation to their political advantage, turning popular rage against progressive sections. The promises of neo-liberalism, which the poor saw as helping the rich with no tangible benefits for them, never materialised: the promises of the right wing may also never get them anywhere, but then that's a matter for the longer term. And as Manmohan Singh reminded us the other day, "in the long run, we are all dead".

The reality is that liberals of all hues have summarily failed to creatively and efficiently been unable to address economic inequalities and cultural insecurities. It was only natural then that internal contradictions of the liberal economic order and its unwillingness to imaginatively address identity issues have made it less attractive to large masses of the population. The organised Left in India is often seen to be talking in

an alien language, unwilling, for instance, to get its hands dirty with the complex identity questions in the country.

Ivory tower liberalism The 'better than thou' positioning of the liberal elite has removed it from the midst of a society that is under siege today, in India and abroad. Unable to show empathy and meaningfully address the everyday angst of the ordinary citizens, liberals and their progressive talk often comes across as bourgeoisie high culture. In other words, liberals, comfortable in their ivory towers, have not adequately represented the poor and downtrodden.

While the right-wing argument that universities are 'using taxpayer's money to propagate anti-national ideas' is indeed intellectually craven, there is an underlying sentiment in it which speaks of a liberal failure to get across to large sections of society and make meaning to their lives.

Can political ideas survive if they don't make a difference to the lives of those around us? Liberal sermons about life's higher purposes from their inaccessible pulpit are bound to fail, as is increasingly becoming evident.

More than just incapacity, the ivory tower liberal is also often perceived to be intellectually illiberal and condescending. While the right uses thugness, the left uses smugness. Trolling has a pre-Twitter history urbane liberals looking contemptuously at unsophisticated folk who held contrary views and talking down to them. Do liberals really believe in political multiculturalism? The truth is, they often don't. As Nicholas Kristof wrote in The New York Times of university-based liberals: "We progressives believe in diversity, and we want women, blacks, Latinos, gays and Muslims at the table - er, so long as they

aren't conservatives…

We're fine with people who don't look like us, as long as they think like us."

During a recent visit to the U.S., I was told by an American professor about how there is a strong feeling among a lot of 'politically neutral folks' that liberal political correctness has gone too far in its moral demarcations of right and wrong. A nation consists of politically and morally diverse, and divergent, views, and intellectual classes should be able to engage all of them, without prejudice.

It is crucial to recognise the frustrations and distress around us wherever they may be on the moral compass - our sense of political correctness should not dissuade us from addressing them. For instance, those around us who are worried about outsiders should be spoken to, not named and shamed. Today's world requires more empathetic consensus-building than name-calling, and a dialogical approach to those in moral disagreement with us.

Reinventing progressive politics Surely, the liberal edifice is still worth fighting for, but we must shed our intellectual arrogance to face up to the real-world problems. It is also important to recognise that the struggle among divergent political and moral ideas is a constant - to think that one particular idea has won over the others forever is a mistake. Liberals made that mistake, it's time to correct it.

Moreover, when activism and dissent are confined to ivory towers, they run the risk of being consigned to the dustbin of history sooner or later. If progressive politics and liberal ideas have to survive, there is a need to politically mainstream our dissent and use an accessible language to convey that. Progressive populism should then be seen as a critical tool to challenge regressive populism of the right wing.

'An Autocrat She Is, No Doubt. But A Benevolent One': Remembering Amma Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa passed away on December 5.

Late in September, she was admitted to Chennai's Apollo Hospital for "fever and dehydration." As the months progressed, it became clearer that her condition was graver than originally thought. Until today, while the 68-year-old political matriarch was still on life-support, and many of her supporters had occupied the space outside the hospital, to mourn her, while still harbouring some hope that she will survive.

Some may consider it odd to see so many people openly display their shock and despair at the suggestion of a politician's death especially a leader who has

been embroiled in one scam after another. But her popularity as a leader has always drawn intense, and even emotional, responses like these.

"An autocrat she is, no doubt. But a benevolent one," writes Tamil author Vaasanthi, in her 2016 biography of Jayalalithaa.

Jayalalithaa's social welfare schemes - and the somewhat absurd branding of rice, cement, televisions and rations that she was criticized for - did eventually make a huge impression, especially on people from rural areas. And when the 2004 tsunami and earthquake devastated Tamil Nadu, she and her government, writes Vaasanthi, "rose admirably to the chal-

lenge". But more than all of "I always used to cry this, it was Jayalalithaa's whenever she left," said charisma and personality Jayalalithaa. "She used to that made the largest impact put me to [bed], and I alon people. ways used to sleep clutchHer rise to power as a ing her saree pallu in my woman in hands. So largely m y m o t h e m a l e Shambhavi Saxena found itr domin a t e d imposprofession was remarkable. sible to get up and leave. So But it all started outside the leaving the edge of the realm of politics. saree in my hand, she used Jayalalithaa speaks spar- to gradually unwind the ingly of her childhood, but saree and she used to make from what she has said, it my aunt drape the saree was not an easy one. In an around herself and lie down interview with Indian talk beside me so that I wouldn't show host Simi Garewal she notice her leaving […] I speaks about how her would be inconsolable for mother's career in films of- three days."

As the daughter of a ten separated the two of them and caused her a lot single mother who worked in the film industry she was of grief:

We are never alone Do you know the legend of the Cherokee Indian youth's rite of passage?

His father takes him into t h e forrest...blindfolded...and leaves him....alone. He is required to sit on a stump the whole night...and not take off the blindfold until the ray of sun shines through it. He is all by himself. He cannot cry out for help to anyone.

Once he survives the night...he is a MAN. He cannot tell the other boys of this experience. Each boy must

come into his own manhood.

The boy was terrified...could hear all kinds of noise...Beasts were all around him. Maybe even some human would hurt him.

The wind blew the grass and earth... and it shook his stump.

But he sat stoically...never removing the blindfold. It would be the only way he could be a man.

Finally, after a horrific night...the sun appeared and he removed his blindfold. It was then that he saw his father...sitting on the stump next to him...at watch...the entire night.

We are never truly alone.

Even when we do not know it, our family and friends are watching out for us...sitting on a stump beside us.

often taunted by her classmates. She says all of this only drove her to work hard at school, and consistently be the best in class. But she soon went from being a "tongue-tied" and "shy" teenager to a glamorous Tamil film actress.

Despite her torrid relationship with MGR, who costarred with her in 28 films, Jayalalithaa never married.

In the interview with Garewal, she reflects on how this cemented her public perception. "If you look at all the other women leaders who have made it to the top in Asia, they were all either daughters or wives or widows of former prime ministers or presidents." But dynastic politics aside, she points to what the associa-

tion with a male relative does: "If you are a wife, automatically so much respect is given to you."

And that respect was not extended to Jayalalithaa, who was at the time an unattached and singularly ambitious woman in politics, and continued to be. Was she an ideal to aspire to?

Many would argue not, while many more would feverishly agree. She was one of the very few women in a seat of political power, and even with the many criminal charges to her name, her absence will be felt deeply, by her supporters and her most vehement opponents alike.

With her gone, it remains to be seen how Chennai, her stronghold, copes with a loss like this.

Ghani on Pakistan Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani has directly blamed Pakistan for covertly supporting several terror networks that have destabilised his country. The new air cargo corridor will give India leverage in Afghanistan as Pakistan continues to deny transit links through its territory. It was a major diplomatic victory for India that the Heart of Asia (HoA) conference concluded with a strong joint declaration calling for "concerted regional and international cooperation to ensure elimination of terrorism" and "disrupting all financial, tactical and logistical support for terrorism". In the past too India has been successful in isolating Pakistan, whether it was before the SAARC summit in Islamabad or when External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj lashed out at Pakistan during her speech at the United Nations General Assembly.

Rajakul Ahmed Yachulli, Arunachal Pradesh

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7

P7 Top 12 Places for Honeymoon in North East India

"I don't understand why North East isn't promoted as a tourist destination; it is just so beautiful…" Lipika cried out while giving us the details of her recent trip to Shillong and other cities of Meghalaya. With her eyes shining brightly and a bit watery with excitement and cheeks getting tomato red, she further pledged that she would indeed go to North East for her honeymoon. Everyone in the room busted out laughing; however, a few days later I pondered over her PLEDGE and decided to do a little research on what are some great honeymoon destinations in North East. To my surprise, this less promoted part of the country is full of options that can prove to be a perfect holiday and honeymoon getaway. Incredible scenic beauty, pristine locales, amiable people and impeccable ambiance…what more should I look for?! Here is a list that I came up with: Nidhi Singh

Shillong, Meghalaya: Beeeautiiiful… is how Lipika described Shillong and I guess her tone can convince anyone! Situated at an altitude of approximately 1,491 m in Meghalaya, it is a part of East Khasi Hill District. The long stretches of mountains, gargling waterfalls, manmade lake and golf course and miles and miles of scenic beauty could mesmerize anyone. The Lady Hydari Park is where locals and tourists gather to enjoy

the beauty of lovely flowers. The Ward's Lake is an artificial lake that can be visited for enjoying boating. Spread Eagle Falls, Sweet Falls and Elephant Falls cut their way through mountains and offer a stunning picture. One must visit place is the Shillong Peak, situated 1,965 m above sea level- it offers a panoramic view of the countryside.

Shillong Peak is an asset to the beauty of Shillong.

Gangtok, Sikkim Dreamlike…. is how Gangtok can be best described. Standing at an altitude of about 5,500 ft in Sikkim, Gangtok possesses unmatched beauty. Gangtok can be counted amongst best honeymoon destinations in India as it offers natural spectacles, modern amenities, good hotels and a variety of restaurantsMost of us dream of spending time with a loved one in a secluded place, where nature dances to the tune of tranquility: Gangtok provides you with just that! A perfect ambiance and a perfect set up. For those of you who are on honeymoon, there are plenty of places that you can visit along with several adventure activities that you can indulge in together. With Ridge Park, Hanuman Tok and Ganest Tok as major sightseeing attractions, trekking and rock climbing keep the honeymoon couples entertained. The cable car ride is a must and a visit to Tashi View Point should by no means be missed.

Tawang! Yes, Tawang! Well I always thought that Tawang is a sacred land; of course I knew it was a beautiful place with jagged hills and lush greenery, but never thought it would become a popular honeymoon destination. The impeccable beauty of Tawang has managed to get a lot of attention from adventure aficionados, but what surprises me is that it has caught the eye of the honeymooners as well. Lofty mountains, waterfalls that cascade into deep gorges, azure sky and sparkling lakes make Tawang more than just any travel destination. A must see here is the Galden Namgyal Lhatse Monastery, which is the highest point of Tawang. A trip to Zimithang, Gorsam Stupa, Khinme monastery, Tatsang gompa and Singshur nunnery brings altogether a different experience. On the other side, Sangeshar Lake is an ideal place for any honeymoon couple- the perfect ambiance and the creative set up make your honeymoon more special and cozy.

Haflong, Assam We by no means can deny the fact that North East is blessed with beauty abundantly and here the excitement never ends!

Haflong…a prized possession of the state of Assam is another brilliant option for the honey-

It just took my breath away and I am sure it will be successful in winning your heart as well! Majuli, which is located 20 kms away from Jorhat Town in Assam, is the world's largest riverine island. This breathtaking destination indeed has the cali-

ber to intimidate any and TRUST ME any popular honeymoon destination in India. If you are planning a honeymoon or a REhoneymoon and you are looking for a place that has nothing to do with noise of vehicle and crowd, then Majuli is the place for you.

Although don't expect a hotel or resort sign welcom-

mood for some adventure. .

Colourful is what come to my mind to me when I read about Pelling, Sikkim. Rich culture, ample of adventure options, festivity and not to forget impeccable scenic beauty makes Pelling the best honeymoon destination in North East India. The breathtaking view of the Khangchendzonga from Pelling is unbeatable, whereas the Khangchendzonga Festival sets the

Flower exhibition, ethnic food and costume stalls can be seen in this festival. Rafting on River Rangit, Kayaking, Mountain Biking and Bird Watching can be enjoyed thoroughly in Pelling. The Pemyangtse Monastery, Khecheopalri Lake, Changey Waterfalls, Khangchendzonga National Park and Singshor Bridge are some of the major attractions here.

Ravangla, Sikkim

thought that crosses my mind…what better way to cherish a destination like Ravangla! Visit the Reyong Sunrise point for stunning view of the snow-capped mountains. Kewzing, a small town in the suburbs of Ravangla, is a must visit.

Along with scenic beauty, the place is known for housing several monasteries as well. Borong Hotspring, Ralang Monasteries and Temi Tea Garden are few other attractions of this exotic place.

Ravangla is simply breathtaking!

Situated at an elevation of 7,000 ft in Sikkim, it offers honeymoon tour like no other. First of all you just cannot ignore the fact that it offers unmatched view of the Greater Himalaya. Secondly, the serene ambiance and spectacular landscape kills all the competition, making it one of the best destinations for honeymoon tourism in India. Amidst majestic nature, romance is the only

Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh

Majuli, Assam

Pelling, Sikkim:

mooners. Along with spectacular natural beauty, Haflong is well-known for its rich heritage and when these two factors merge, we get a fascinating destination like Haflong. Situated at an altitude of about 680 m, Haflong is also known as the

White Ant Hillock. This scenic hill station provides great sightseeing opportunities along with options for trekking, bird watching and paragliding. Orchid Garden, Borail Range, Maibong, Jatinga and Haflong Lake are some major attractions here.

ing you, in fact there are no hotels in this area However, there are few hotels in Garamur, which is located 10 kms from the shore. Most of the travelers visit Majuli for a day and then return to Jorhat town. Lush rice fields, towering bamboo trees, small houses and amiable people keep the charm alive of this unique destination.

Lachung, Sikkim: Lachung can be counted as a perfect honeymoon destination in North East. Set at a breathtaking elevation of approximately 8,610 m, this picturesque village is embraced by lofty mountains, cascading waterfalls and red apple orchards.

Blooming rhododendron against the perfect background of snowclad mountains and flowing of River

Lachung through the middle of the village mesmerizes the visitor. There are many hotels and lodges available here, which ensures a pleasant stay. Lachung is also a perfect halt for the travelers visiting another spectacular place called Yumthang Valley. You can visit Lachung Monastery and Shingba Rhododendron Sanctuary. To make your honeymoon tour more memorable, you can further go to Yumthang valley.

Dzukou Valley, Nagaland Bed of lilies and red and white rhododendrons… the azure sky and lush greenery…Picture perfect honeymoon destination! Dzukou Valley is situated 25 kms away from Kohima at an elevation of 2,462m. One of the articles that I went through described it as a 'valley of celestial charm'.

You can drive from Kohima to Seikhakie, which is the base camp for Dzukou Valley. One has to trek through a rough terrain before reaching the Dzukou Valley, but all your effort is worth it! You can go exploring the caves, walk on the lush green meadows and witness the spectacular sight of blooming pink and white lilies and rhododendrons. The best time to visit Dzukou valley is between June and July.

Bomdila, Arunachal Pradesh Another marvel of Arunachal Pradesh, Bomdila is gorgeous! Situated at an altitude of 8,000 ft, Bomdila can be called one of the best honeymoon locations in North East. Lofty snow-clad mountains, dense forests and quaint settings, make this place quite picturesque. Dirang valley, Sela Pass and the Buddhist Monastery are a few places worth seeing here. Also, what could be more romantic than a hand-in- hand nature walk? Don't expect luxury hotels here; however, if you are comfortable with a decent budget hotel, then this is a place for you!

Pfutsero, Nagaland Despite the fact that it is a vital commercial centre, Pfutsero is a quiet little town in Nagaland. Situated at an altitude of about 2,134 m above sea level, it is the coldest region of Nagaland. The natural landscape is simply mesmerizing and is ideal for a different yet perfect honeymoon tour. Glory Peak, World War-II Japanese Cave, Miracle Cave, Leshemi Vil-

lage, Khezhakeno Village and Pfutseromi Village are the major attractions here. There are no hotels available at Pfutsero, so eventually one has to lodge in Phek or in Kohima. But this doesn't hinder your idea of a perfect honeymoon here. A day in Pfutsero will prove worthwhile, as you can enjoy the scenic beauty and cherish moments of your perfect honeymoon.

Ziro Valley, Arunachal Pradesh Ziro is one of the most beautiful hill stations in Arunachal Pradesh. A quiet, serene place, Ziro is located at an altitude of approximately 1,500 m.

Paddy fields, bamboo and pine groves and rich variety of flowers make Ziro Valley a picturesque place. These natural spectacles set up a perfect ambiance for a honeymoon couple as well. Thus Ziro valley can be considered one of the best honeymoon locations in North East in India. Ziro Putu, Dolo Mando, Dilopolyang Maniipolyang, Talley Valley and Kile Pakho are the major attractions of Ziro Valley. There are a couple of good hotels that are available at reasonable prices in Ziro, so you need to worry much.

Well, I guess I have found my answer to Lipika's question. North East is indeed a place to be at! It takes a honeymoon tour a step further and makes it ever memorable and ever interesting with its impeccable landscape, vivacious culture, bizarre diversity and astonishing tranquility.

I hope the list here serves the purpose and helps you decide where to go on a honeymoon in North East. Moreover, I hope it invokes an urge in you to explore this unspoiled, unmatched region of the country

DIBRUGARH,WEDNESDAY,DECEMBER7

P8

NATION

Differences with PM Modi a media- Open to probe by made perception: Vasundhara Raje any agency : BJP Rajasthan CM Vasundhara Raje also called it an "imaginary talk" when asked if she was angry that her MP son Dushyant Singh was not given a berth in the Modi-led government.

New Delhi, Dec 06: Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje on Tuesday dismissed reports of her having differences with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and said this was a "perception" created by the media as both of them talk when it is required. Raje also called it an "imaginary talk" when asked if she was angry that her MP son Dushyant Singh was not given a berth in the Narendra Modi-led government that took charge in 2014. "You all have tried to create that perception (she and Modi not gelling together)…that I am a 'maharani'…this is how it is…how far will you create perceptions? I have had no problems till now (with the PM).

"Things are going good in the state…whenever there is a positive development

"You all have tried to create that perception (she and Modi not gelling together)…that I am a 'maharani'…this is how it is…how far will you create perceptions? I have had no problems till now (with the PM)," she said

you would be reading the tweets (by the PM) too. I never feel so..if it is about perception then you help us change it," she said when asked if the opposition was correct in saying

that things do not gel ('banti nahin') between her and the PM. Participating in the 'Agenda Aaj Tak' event here, she said there is nothing like not talking to Modi directly.

Javed Akhtar, Aishwarya Dhanush among speakers at JLF 10 New Delhi, Dec 6 :Lyricist-writer Javed Akhtar, Aishwarya Dhanush, Patrick French and Frank Trentmann are among the 250 speakers set to appear at the 10th edition of Jaipur Literary festival (JLF) next year.

The organisers released the eighth list of 10 speakers today. The new lineup has speakers from India and across the globe including noted screenwriter-poet-lyricist Akhtar, who has been a regular at the literary event.

French, a British biographer and historian living in Delhi and known for his books "The World Is What It Is" and his biography of Nobel Laureate V S Naipual, is also returning to the festival. He is cur-

rently working on the authorised biography of Doris Lessing.

Aishwarya Dhanush, who has written the memoir "Standing On An Apple Box" chronicling her experiences of being the daughter of superstar Rajnikanth and being married to an actor, will be a part of the event.

Other speakers include Manav Kaul, an author, playwright, actor and director, Mei Fong, the Pulitzer award-winning Malaysian writer, known for her book on China's one-child policy and Anuradha Beniwal, a former National chess champion, who debuted with her Hindi book "Aazadi Mera Brand".

Trentmann, a professor

of History at Birkbeck College, University of London, will attend the festival to talk about his new book "Empire of Things: How We Became a World of Consumers, Fifteenth Century to the TwentyFirst Century".

Raghu Karnad, a journalist and the author of "Farthest Field: An Indian Story of the Second World War", author Richard Sennett, best known for his writings on cities, labour and culture and French writer Franck Thilliezis round off the list of 10 speakers, whose names were released today.

The 2017 edition will take place between January 19 and 23 at the historic Diggi Palace Hotel in Jaipur. (PTI)

Mehbooba slams Farooq over his Hurriyat remark

Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti

Srinagar, Dec 06: Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti today slammed National Conference leader FarooqAbdullah for his remarks that his party is not against separatist Hurriyat, saying it showed that the Opposition party was behind the violence in the Valley over last few months.

She alleged that NC wants to keep the atmosphere charged in the Valley as it "can go to any extent for power".

"He (Abdullah) used to say that Hurriyat leaders should be thrown into river Jhelum. Today he is talking about something else. It again makes it clear that NC will play with the lives of anyone, including children and women, for power," Mehbooba told reporters here.

"The statement of Farooq telling his party workers to lend full support to

Hurriyat makes clear one thing which we did not mention till now that NC can go to any extent for power," she said.

The chief minister said NC can play with the lives of anyone including children and women, for power.

"In the last four-five months, the criminal element which entered into the situation here, who pelted stones on vehicles, burnt schools and attacked camps... this statement makes it clear that NC was involved in such activities in these months," she charged.

The Chief Minister said NC leadership has asked its party workers to not let the situation improve.

"Now when the situation is improving, children are going to school and tourism is also picking up slowly, Farooq has once again asked his workers, giving them an order, to create that situation once

again in which the atmosphere in J&K will remain charged," she said.

Abdullah, while addressing his party workers at a function to commemorate the 111th birth anniversary of his father and party founder Sheikh Mohammad Abdullah at Hazratbal yesterday, had said his party was not against the Hurriyat and supported the Kashmiri's demand for their rights but it would not tread the "wrong path" for achieving these goals.

He had also asked his party workers not to be away from "this struggle" because "We are a part of this struggle. We have fought regularly for the interests of this Valley."

Mehbooba said Abdullah is not concerned about the struggle because since 1947 till now, NC has only struggled for power. "Even today I feel that, by the statement yesterday, he has hinted at his workers to not let the situation improve because they want power at any cost," she alleged.

She noted that Abdullah's son Omar has been a Minister (of state) for External Affairs in the BJP-led government and had said that Pakistan should be labeled as a terror state.

Farooq Abdullah also regularly used to say that Pakistan should be bombed, Mehbooba said. (PTI)

"You will not talk everyday…no one talks to me everyday when it comes to state affairs.

When requirement arises, we talk, we meet and conferences are held and issues are exchanged. When there is requirement we do. There could be a perception problem with you but nothing between us (Raje and Modi)," she said. Raje added her son, Dushyant, Member of Parliament from Rajasthan, is "happy where he is" and all the talks about her being unhappy at Dushyant not being inducted into the Modi cabinet are "imaginary."

"Kitni kalpanik baatein…kahan se suni…kisney aapko bataya (this is a imaginary talk…where did you hear this and who told you?)…Dushyant is

very happy where he is.

In my family, by God's grace, we got what we should have…," she said when asked a question on this. In reply to an another question on the leadership of Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi, Raje said she has "no opinion" on this issue.

"I have got no opinion on Rahul's leadership…it's not my habit to go into this. It is not necessary to comment on this…else you go on doing negative politics and the work of development of the state is not attended to," she said.

The Rajasthan chief Minister said she does not see state Congress President Sachin Pilot as a "threat" to her. "We will see in 2018 (when Assembly polls are slated in the state)," she said. (PTI)

Prime Minister Modi Pays Tribute to BR Ambedkar on His Death Anniversary

B R Ambedkar.

New Delhi, Dec 06: Prime Minister Narendra Modi

on Tuesday paid his tributes to B R Ambedkar, saying India will always be thankful to Babasaheb for his rich service to the nation.

"I bow to Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar on his Nirvan Divas. India will always be thankful to Babasaheb for his rich service to the nation," he said in a tweet.

He also paid floral tributes to Ambedkar at a function in Parliament.

Ambedkar, popularly known as Babasaheb Ambedkar, was the Architect of the Indian Constitution. (PTI)

Indian artisans and weavers display cultural heritage at CCIC PTI New Delhi, Dec. 6: Exclusive handcrafted creations by Nationalaward-winning artisans and weavers from across the country is on display here.

The exhibition, titled "Dharohar", is an initiative of the Textile Ministry along with Central Cottage Industries Corporation (CCIC) of India and aims to promote Indian handicrafts and craftsmanship.

Kashmir-based artiste Mohammed Shafi Nagu, who is displaying a collection of his exquisite 'Papier Machie Boxes' inspired from the flora of the valley, says he combines paper with natural glue and delicately shapes them putting successive layers of paper pulp.

"It takes 10-12 days to prepare a hard surface which is smoothened with a special stone called 'karkod'. These are handcrafted and hand-painted where we use vibrant water-based colours to paint chinar trees and other beautiful flora of our state," Nagu says.

The artiste, who has been in the trade since his childhood, says it is a family legacy.

Pieces overlaid with cut and polished panels of camel bone and inscribed with traditional designs are another visual treat at the exhibition.

The craved perfume casket 'Itra Daan' represents mughal grandeur, which craftsperson Abul Hasib has successfully revived.

"The bone is first

cleansed with chemical hydroxyl to remove the impurities. We cut it in different dimensions, polish and then carve it with authentic designs to create art pieces," says Habib.

The exhibition also offers a collection of handlooms presenting the culture and colours of India. From famous Pashmina stoles to benarasi hand woven apparels all have been capsuled at one place.

Brass metal works made with traditional techniques are being displayed by artiste Chanchal Chakraborty.

"It is an old craft of India and Islamic influence enriched it further. We use the sand casting technique to caste different components in brass and give the artifact final finish using different types of chemicals," says Chakraborty.

Ram Dayal Sharma draws inspiration from old Rajputana rifles to create a gun in Trakashi works- generally done on teakwood or sheesham.

An interactive session with master craftspeople demonstrating the process of making art pieces will also be organised by CCIC. "We have taken this initiative to promote Indian crafts and encourage the artistes with a view to increase awareness," says Pramod Nagpal, Managing Director, CCIC. The exhibition, which is underway at CCIC, here is set to continue till December 15.

Patna, Dec 6 :Asserting that land purchased by the party in Bihar was completely "legal", Bihar BJP today said it was open to probe by any agency for the purchases made by it.

"There are no irregularities in land purchases made by the party. They are completely legal and as per the law. The government can get the land purchase probed by any agency," BJP state chief Nityanand Rai said here.

"We will welcome it but the probe should be done without any bias," he said.

Chief Minister Nitish Kumar had yesterday questioned BJP's silence on JD(U) raising the issue of large-scale purchase of land in the state ahead of demonetisation. He had also said the state government would act when the matter would come before it.

"BJP should answer from

where they got so much money for the purpose," Kumar had said during his newly launched programme Lok Samvad.

Ruling JD(U) and RJD had earlier demanded a probe to ascertain if black money was used in the purchase of land by BJP to construct buildings for its offices in various districts.

Also purchase of land on a large scale, just few weeks before the prime minister's announcement raises suspicion that top functionaries of BJP had prior knowledge about demonetisation.

Rai criticised Nitish Kumar, who is also the national JD(U) president, for his "doublespeak" visa-vis demonetisation and asked him to clear his party's stand on the issue.

"On the one hand you (Nitish Kumar) support demonetisation while on

the other hand, JD(U) leader Sharad Yadav opposes the Centre's move in Parliament. It is your doublespeak on the issue.

You should either acquaint your leader in Parliament with the party's stand or ask him (Yadav) to support demonetisation," said Rai, who is a Lok Sabha MP. Alleging growing distance between allies JD(U) and RJD, he said "It is bound to occur in an alliance which is stitched just to grab power. People have lost their faith in the alliance. Both Nitish Kumar and Lalu Prasad don't have faith in each other."

On being asked to comment on Deputy Chief Minister Tejaswi Yadav's statement that Rai could become BJP chief because of RJD, Rai said that he is "scared" and that is the reason why he is issuing such statements. (PTI)

External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj's transplant likely next week New Delhi, Dec 06: External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj is likely to undergo a kidney transplantat AIIMS next week. Hospital sources said her pretransplant process was complete.

Swaraj's vitals were stable and she was fit to undergo the life-saving procedure, a senior doctor, who did not want to be identified, told TOI. "Several people have come forward to donate their kidney. However, chances are that we'll use the one that has been offered by a relative," he said.

Any healthy person can safely donate a kidney, given that his other organ is fully functional, say doctors. Both the recipient and the donor are put through multiple tests to avoid co-morbidity that could affect recovery.

Also, an HLA-matching test is done to rule out the risk of rejection posttransplant.

Doctors said Swaraj (64) had been undergoing treatment for diabetes and

External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj. other hormonal issues at AIIMS for decades. After the kidney failure diagnosis, she had been undergoing dialysis for the last six months.

Sources said AIIMS had already formed a team of experts for the purpose.

"As of now, the plan is to conduct the procedure in AIIMS itself. We are only waiting for a clearance from the authorisation committee for the donor," a source said. "I am in AIIMS because of kidney failure... I am on dialysis.

I am undergoing tests for

a kidney transplant. Lord Krishna will bless (sic)," Swaraj had tweeted last month in a rare instance of a VIP publicly declaring her illness.

Swaraj has been active despite her illness. Geeta Singh, an AIIMS scholar who struggling to get an Australian visa, had tagged Swaraj on Twitter for help. The minister had quickly responded to her plea. On Monday, she wrote again: "Geeta - You have been issued visa for Australia." (PTI)

Indian man who walked 1,000 kms in Dubai to seek justice is back home, thanks to Sushma Swaraj HIGHLIGHTS An Indian man walked around 1,000 km over 2 years in Dubai to get justice.

That's because he couldn't afford transport.

Jagannathan Selvaraj New Delhi, Dec 06: Thanks to Sushma Swaraj, an Indian man who walked a 1,000 kilometres for justice in Dubai, is finally back home in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu.

Jagannathan Selvaraj, 48, covered a distance of 22 km each way to attend labour court proceedings at the Dubai Courts, he told Khaleej Times recently. He was living in Sonapur on the outskirts of Dubai and had to go to a neighbourhood called Karama in the city to attend court.

To make it to every hearing, he walked from Sonapur to Karama and back, a journey that took him a total of four hours.

And he did this for every court hearing which took place every couple of

weeks - for a total of 20plus hearings - because he was too poor to afford bus fare.

As Sushma Swaraj said: "We have brought him back to India and sent him to his village. He went up and down to the court 20 times over a year. That made it 1000 Kms." "My case number was 826 and I had to walk 2 hours in the morning to reach the court in Dubai.

I used to get up early morning at 4 am on the days the court was to hear my case. Every 15 days, I had to walk all the way to the court because I did not have the money to pay for bus or taxi," Selvaraj told Khaleej Times.

He also said he's not just braved the heat but also the traffic, sandstorms

When his plight came to minister Sushma Swaraj's notice, she helped get him home. and the crippling exhaustion - all because he just wanted to return home to India.

"I used to start early in the mornings when it was less hot. From Sonapur, I would walk to Al Qusais, then Al Nahda, the Airport Free Zone and from there on to Karama.

I did not have money to buy a bus ticket or take the Metr o . N o b o d y helped me, but I must have attended the court at least 20 times during the two years,"he told Khaleej Times.

Selvaraj began his court journey after his mother died in an accident in his village in Tirucharapalli two years ago. He was denied time off to attend her funeral.

And now he's finally back home. (Agencies)

EDUCATION

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7

PAGE 9

How to Know the Importance of Education economic situation. m Employers look for educational achievements. Even having a high school degree will reduce the risk of unemployment and increase the average lifetime earnings of most working adults.

Getting an education is important, as most career paths require at least some education and training. Though the decision to continue your education is a personal choice, it's worth considering if knowledge and experience are important to you. If you have any career goals, you will most likely need an education to achieve those goals. Learning the importance of an education can help motivate you to learn more and achieve great things.

Preparing for Your Future Decide on your career goals If you've thought about your future at all, you probably have some idea of what you want to do as a career. No matter what your goal is, it will probably require some degree of education. mSearch online for information about your desired career, or talk to professionals working in that field. There is a good chance that anyone you talk to will tell you that you'll need an education in order to enter that field. mIn the United States, only 27 percent of jobs available nationwide require less than a high

out of school thinking that they would rather work than be in school, but statistics show that the majority of high school dropouts are unemployed and have little or no source of income.

Get a better job Even if the career you've chosen doesn't require an advanced education to break into the field, you will most likely need an education if you want to get promoted or earn a higher-paying job. m People who have completed an advanced education typically make more money than people who have not gone to school. For example, in the United States, median weekly earnings in 2014 for people with only a high school diploma were $751 (men) and $558 (women). In contrast, the median weekly earnings for people with least a bachelor's degree were $1385 (men) and $1049 (women) in 2014. For people with an advanced degree, the median weekly wage was even higher: $1630 (men) and $1185 (women). mHaving a high school diploma dramatically increase the chances of earning a job over high school dropouts. That number continues to rise as students pursue higher

can help you learn new skills, make professional connections, and generally have greater success. m People who have completed an advanced education often have more and better opportunities available to them because of their education. mEven if you have not

completed a high school diploma, completing vocational training (education emphasizing a particular trade, such as electrician) will likely increase your income level and ability to find a job.[11] If you have a high school education and vocational training, you are a much more attractive candidate for jobs.

Overcoming equality

In-

m In the United States, 54 percent of high school dropouts between the ages of 16 and 24 are unemployed. For high school graduates, that number decreases to 32 percent of people in the same age bracket, and it decreases even further to 13 percent of college graduates.

Live a better life Beyond the professional opportunities that an education affords people, having an education may also be correlated with living a better life in general. Some studies suggest that people who stay in school

relatives with a positive role model, and inspiring them to pursue an education.

Recognizing the Social Benefits of an Education Live a longer life Some studies suggest that having a higher education can help you live a longer life. This may be because of better working conditions that come with an education, or it could be because earning an education helped remove people from adverse domestic situations.

Whatever the cause, many studies show that even earning a high school education significantly decreases the likelihood of dying young. m Young men who graduate high school statistically live an average of seven years longer than male high school dropouts. Young women who graduate high school

are less likely to end up having legal troubles later in life.

live an average of six years longer than female high school dropouts.

m College graduates with a bachelor's degree earn an average of $1.64 million dollars more than high school dropouts over the course of a lifetime.

High school graduates earn an average of $429,280 more than high school dropouts over the course of a lifetime.

m Young men who graduate college statistically live an average of 13 years longer than male high school dropouts, and an average of six years longer than male high school graduates who do not go to college. Young women who graduate college live an average of 12 years longer than female high school dropouts, and an average of six years longer than female high school graduates who do not go to college.

Be happier in life In addition to living a longer life, people who pursue an education tend to be happier in life.

That's because having an education has been shown to make people better problem solvers who are better equipped to manage day-to-day problems.

school degree. By contrast, students who have graduated from high school are deemed qualified for 39 percent of jobs available nationwide. m Many people drop

education through college and graduate school.

Find better opportunities Getting an education opens a lot of professional doors for you. It

Overcome income inequality Studies have shown that having an education - even a primary education - can help low-income workers earn more money and find a better

m Having an education (and subsequently getting a better job) may make people less likely to commit crimes for fear of losing what they've worked for.

m Some studies suggest that simply earning an education, regardless of subsequent income or job contentment, helps people have better mental health later in life.

m The average high school dropout in America has a one in 10 chance of being arrested, whereas the average high school graduate only has a one in 35 chance of being arrested. m Some studies suggest having an education can also make people more patient, and therefore less likely to be overcome by anger or violent tendencies.

Find more fulfillment in life Some studies suggest that people who have completed an education are more likely to pursue things that offer personal fulfillment. m Flow, a term used to describe meaningful and satisfying absorption in a task, is often associated with educational advancement. In other words, having an education may help you find hobbies or passions that give you a sense of fulfillment.

Help your family Having an education is typically associated with an increased ability to provide for your family.

That means not only being able to help financially support your family, but also providing younger

m Many schools encourage flow, whether intentionally or not, by offering a stimulating learning environment and meaningful extracurricular activities to students who might not otherwise have those opportunities.

How to Make a Good Career Choice Most of us are in the position of making a career choice very early on in life and when we are young, it isn't so easy to decide whether or not the career we choose will suit us for a lifetime.

Making a good career choice is actually about a lot more than choosing a job; it's about choosing something that will provide you with the lifestyle you seek.

Don't decide until you're ready Although this seems obvious advice, too many young people feel pressured into making a choice before they are really sure of what it is they want to do. In fact, many young people don't even know who they are, let alone what they want to become! If you need time, take off a year or two to go and discover yourself and what you're good at.

School doesn't teach you a lot of life skills – life does. Many successful people take off time to slowly work out what it is that makes them tick and brings them fulfillment.

Look for breadth in your career choice Instead of trying to narrow down your options, it can be helpful to keep open as many options as possible within your chosen trade, profession, or field of expertise. That way, you gain maneuverability and flexibility as you and the job change. For example, if you want to be a marine biologist, why not consider also taking a course in photography and writing, so that you can write or photograph stories about what is under the sea on a freelance basis. Keeping open your options might mean a little extra study but it will be worth it in the long run when

you gain increased flexibility.

Work to your strengths Even if you are well into your chosen course, training, internship, or induction for your career, and find that you are always relying on your less strong attributes, it pays to stop and reassess the worth of continuing on this course. A lifetime spent working in an area where you don't get to rely on your strengths for the majority of the time will cause you a great deal of stress and disharmony and can prevent growth and enjoyment of your career.

A good career will, on the whole, have you working to your strengths.

Volunteer in your desired career There is no better way to know whether or not the career is for you than to just pitch in and get your hands dirty. It's much more likely to happen if you take on such roles without payment, especially where the employer understands your motivations. If you can handle the work thrown to you and still want more, you're likely to be onto a winner.

Moreover, the network contacts built up during volunteer experiences are priceless.

Talk to people who work in your desired career Ask them such questions as: "Do you still enjoy working in this career after all these years?", "What is it about this job that you like the most?", "What are the downsides to this job?", "Do you find that this job lets you have a good work-life balance?" Ask away and you will soon get a good sense of fit for you.

Listen to advice but

make your own decision ultimately. Parents, teachers, friends, careers counselors – all of them tend to mean well but they're not you. It's you who has to feel comfortable with the cloak you wear, the boots you strap on, and the daily routine that you adapt to. Nobody else can truly know what works for you. Also, don't be put off by stories from people who have nothing to do with your career but have a bag of hearsay to feed you, both good and bad.

They don't know, and often what they do know is gleaned from the entertainment industry, hardly a decent resource for reality! Be polite but do your own research and thinking on the matter. Ø The same principles apply to a change of career, something that happens often in mid-life but can also happen early on, or even much later. As with making your first decision, having the right information at your fingertips is crucial, including information about the acceptance by the industry or business in question of taking on someone in your position. Again, don't listen to other people's stories; you can rely more on those who actually work still in the particular career you intend to switch to, but even then, they cannot fully comprehend what you might bring to a new career with your previous experience in tow. Do your research, soul-searching, additional training, and stick with your convictions. Importantly, change of career is considered to be a lot more normal and responsible than it has been at any other time in history (leaving out politicians, of course!).

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7

Obama admin differs with Trump on China policy Trump last week spoke over phone with Taiwanese President, and then in a series of tweets slammed China for alleged currency manipulation and military build-up in the South China Sea. Washington, Dec 06: The outgoing Obama administration appears to be in differences with President-elect Donald Trump over the China policy, saying it has been in contact with the Chinese officials to reiterate its continued support to the long-standing one-China policy. Responding to questions, White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest even tended to question the impact of such a policy could have on stability in the region and its impact on not only the US, China but also Taiwan.

When asked about Trump's phone call to Taiwanese President, Tsai Ing-wen, earnest said it is hard to determine exactly what the aim was of the President-elect.

"If the President-elect's team has a different aim, I will leave it on them to describe," Earnest said.

"I know both the Vice President-elect and his

The outgoing Obama administration appears to be in differences with President-elect Donald Trump over the China policy, saying it has been in contact with the Chinese officials to reiterate its continued support to the long-standing one-China policy. campaign manager were, when asked about this over the weekend indicated that these were courtesy calls or that this was a courtesy call and the President-elect was merely returning that call.

The Washington Post today tells a different story, with some Trump aides indicating that this was a

long-planned call and that this is part of a broader strategic effort.

"It is unclear exactly what the strategic effort is, what the aim of the strategic effort is, and it is unclear exactly what potential benefit could be experienced by the US, China or Taiwan but I will leave that on them to explain," he

said.

Trump last week spoke over phone with Taiwanese President, the first by a top American leader since 1979, and then in a series of tweets slammed China for alleged currency manipulation and military build-up in the South China Sea. His top aids have tended to dismiss the concerns, saying that this was merely courtesy call.

Trump's one of the election campaign promises was to declare China a currency manipulator.

"I am aware of two different phone conversations with officials at the National Security Council with their Chinese counterparts.

"What we have made clear in a couple of different phone conversations is that the administration is committed to our nation's pursuit of a one-China policy rooted in three communiques and the Taiwan

Relations Act," Earnest said.

"This is a policy that is based on three joint USChina communiques that were negotiated by different US Presidents in different parties and, of course, by the Taiwan Relations Act. "This is a policy that has been in place for nearly 40 years, and it has been focused on promoting and preserving peace and stability in the strait. The adherence to and commitment to this policy has advanced the ability of the US to make progress in our relationship with China and of course has benefited the people of Taiwan," he said.

Earnest said that Taiwan, after all, is the ninth-largest trading partner of the US, and they certainly benefit from peace and stability in the strait and pursuit of and commitment to that peace and stability advances US interests. (PTI)

'Diplomatic rookie' Trump must Japanese leader Abe won't fall into line, China media say apologise at Pearl Harbor While Beijing is willing to cut him some slack for now, things will be very different after his inauguration, analysts warn

Donald Trump Beijing, Dec 06: Donald Trump is a "diplomatic rookie" who must learn not to cross Beijing on issues like trade and Taiwan, Chinese state media said Tuesday, warning America could pay dearly for his naivety.

Trump's protocol-shattering call with Taiwan's president and a subsequent Twitter tirade against Beijing's policies could risk upending the delicate balance between the world's two largest economies, major media outlets said.

"Provoking friction and messing up China-US relations won't help 'make America great again'", said a front-page opinion piece in the overseas edition of Communist Party mouthpiece People's Daily.

The nationalist Global Times newspaper's Chinese edition also ran a page-one story on Trump's "inability to keep his mouth shut", damning his "provocation and falsehoods".

Trump fired off two tweets on Sunday blasting China for devaluing its currency, taxing US imports, and building military installations in the South China Sea. The comments followed criticism of Trump in US and Chinese media for taking a congratulatory phone call from Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen, a move that flew in the face of nearly 40 years of diplomatic protocol and raised questions about whether the president-elect

intends to pursue a hard line against Beijing.

Official reaction from Beijing has been muted, but China often uses state media to telegraph its policy positions, sometimes employing rhetoric beyond the diplomatic pale.

The Global Times' Englishlanguage edition filled its opinion pages with editorials slamming the presidentelect.

The often brittle, provocative publication is not considered "official" media, but has close ties to the ruling party.

Noting that Sino-US relations had reached a delicate equilibrium thanks to years of careful management, an editorial in the paper warned that Trump "can make a lot of noise but that does not exempt him from the rules of the major power game," adding that he "doesn't have sufficient resources" to be provocative with China.

"Trump's China-bashing tweet is just a cover for his real intent, which is to treat China as a fat lamb and cut a piece of meat off it," it said.

"He is trying to pillage other countries for US prosperity," it warned, but instead he will unwittingly "smash the current world economic order" of which the US is the "biggest beneficiary."

A companion commentary warned that Trump "will in time learn not to cross China", threatening "a fierce competition" with

Beijing if the US increases arm sales to Taiwan.

It was illustrated by an editorial cartoon showing an eagle throwing pebbles at a large, scowling panda.

Meanwhile the English-language China Daily newspaper warned that "diplomatic rookie" Trump needs to moderate his behavior or he will create "costly troubles for his country".

"As president-elect, Trump can expect some forgiveness even when he is shooting from the hip. But things will be different when he becomes president."

'SOBERING' During the presidential campaign, Trump frequently targeted China for fiscal and trade policies that he claimed cost the US millions of jobs.

While China seems to have hoped the rhetoric was more bark than bite, initial signs suggests he will continue to take an aggressive line on the world's second largest economy.

"If Trump continues talking this way after taking office...

China is going to have to make some adjustments in its thinking," Jia Qingguo, professor at Peking University, told AFP, calling the comments "sobering".

Trump's decision to speak with Taiwan's president seems to have particularly rattled Beijing, which regards the democraticallyruled island of 23 million a renegade province, though it has its own legal and military systems and has not been under Beijing's control for more than 60 years.

"This call was no accident," said Trey McArver, analyst for China Politics Weekly. "It is clear that Trump associates, including chief of staff Reince Priebus, have had repeated contact with Tsai and her people in recent months and were well aware of what they were doing." (Agencies)

one Afghan national. Their names were not made public and it was not clear who and if anyone represented them in court.

There was no immediate reaction from Tehran on the verdicts and details about the case remain few.

Saudi state media reported in February that those charged were accused of establishing a spy ring in collaboration with Iranian intelligence and

providing Iran with highly sensitive information on the Saudi military.

The reports said they also were charged with seeking to commit acts of sabotage against Saudi economic interests, inciting sectarian strife, recruiting others for espionage and participating in antigovernment protests.

Saudi Arabia cut diplomatic relations to Iran after protesters stormed and ransacked

Merkel seeks new party term amid concern over migrants

German Chancellor and Chairwomen of the CDU, Angela Merkel, gestures during her speech as part of a general party conference of the Christian Democratic Union.

Berlin, Dec 06: German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Tuesday stressed her determination to ensure that there's no repeat of last year's huge migrant influx as she seeks a new two-year term in charge of her conservative party.

Germany saw about 890,000 asylum-seekers arrive last year, many after Merkel decided in September 2015 to let in migrants who were stuck in Hungary. Numbers have since declined sharply, but Merkel's approach to the migrant crisis has provoked discord within her Christian Democratic Union, which has seen a

string of poor state election results this year.

"A situation like the one in the late summer of 2015 cannot, should not and must not be repeated," Merkel told party delegates at a congress in the western city of Essen.

"That was and is our, and my, declared political aim," she said.

While Merkel has continued to insist that Germany will take in people in genuine need of protection, her government has moved to toughen asylum rules and declare several countries "safe" -- meaning people from there can't expect to get refuge in Germany.

Merkel was a driving force behind an agreement between the European Union and Turkey earlier this year to stem the flow of migrants.

Merkel announced last month that she will seek a fourth four-year term as chancellor in an election expected next September.

Her springboard to that run is re-election as the chairwoman of the CDU. Tuesday's vote in Essen, where she was first elected chairwoman of the Christian Democratic Union in 2000, offers a test of Merkel's standing with members. Aside from unhappiness about her migrant policy, some members are grumbling about what's perceived as a wider drift to the left during her 11 years as chancellor.

Polls show a solid lead for the conservatives, though their support is well short of the 41.5 per cent they won in Germany's 2013 election. They face new competition from the upstart nationalist Alternative for Germany party, which has thrived by attacking Merkel's migrant policies.

Merkel is running unopposed for another term at CDU's helm. Two years ago, she won the support of 96.7 per cent of delegates, one of her best results. (Agencies)

Syria rebels reject Aleppo exit as regime army advances Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. Tokyo, Dec 06: Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe won't apologise for Japan's attack when he visits the US naval base at Pearl Harbor later this month, the governmentspokesman said today.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said that "the purpose of the upcoming visit is to pay respects for the war dead and not to offer an apology."

Abe announced late yesterday that he would have a summit meeting with President Barack Obama in Hawaii and visit Pearl Harbor.

He will be the first Japanese leader to go to the site of the Japanese attack that propelled the US into World War II. The unexpected announcement came two days before the 75th anniversary of the attack and six months after Obama became the first sitting American president to visit Hiroshima for victims of the US atomic bombing of that city at the end of the same war.

"We must never repeat the tragedy of the war," Abe said. "I would like to send this commitment. At the same time, I would like to send a message of reconciliation between Japan and the US".

The White House confirmed that Obama and Abe would visit the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor on December 27.

It said "the two leaders' visit will showcase the power of reconciliation that has turned former adversaries into the closest of allies,

united by common interests and shared values."

Defence Secretary Ash Carter, on an official trip to Japan, said he would tell Abe at a meeting later today how pleased Obama and the US are.

The announcement of the summit comes as Japan worries about the direction of US foreign policy under Obama's successor, Donald Trump.

Tsuneo Watanabe, a senior research fellow at the Sasakawa Peace Foundation, said that together with Obama's visit to Hiroshima, the Pearl Harbor visit will complete the reconciliation process and help smooth bilateral relations under any administration.

"Historical disputes tend to be brought up when relations become thorny ... But once you put them behind and move on, it makes a difference if there is any negative sentiment in the future," he said.

But Koichi Nakano, a professor of international politics at Tokyo's Sophia University, said the Pearl Harbor visit and Abe's commitment to the Japan-US alliance are tantamount to "giving a blank check to Trump" despite the uncertainty over bilateral relations under his administration.

More than 2,300 US servicemen died in the aerial attack, which will be marked tomorrow at Pearl Harbor with a remembrance ceremony and a moment of silence at 7:55 AM, when the Japanese planes hit their first target.

(Agencies)

Saudi court sentences 15 people to death in Iran spy cell trial Riyadh, Dec 06: A court in Saudi Arabia on Tuesday sentenced 15 people to death and several others to prison terms in a case involving an alleged Iranian spy cell, a sign of the continuing tension between the two Mideast powers.

A Riyadh criminal court handed down the sentences to the 32 people who were charged in February, including 30 Saudis, one Iranian and

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INTERNATIONAL

two Saudi diplomatic posts in the Islamic Republic.

Those violent demonstrations came after Saudi Arabia executed a prominent Shiite cleric in January, along with 46 others.

Tensions have remained high between Shiite power Iran and the Sunni-ruled kingdom of Saudi Arabia all year long. On Monday, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman said Tehran and

Riyadh can and should cooperate to resolve regional crises.

Bahram Ghasemi told reporters that the recent OPEC agreement to cut oil production and the Lebanese presidential election â•” in which an Iran ally who was elected president designated a Saudi ally for prime minister -•” were both recent examples of Iran-Saudi cooperation. (Agencies)

Tens of thousands of residents flee to other parts of the city amid growing concern for their welfare Aleppo (Syria), Dec 06: Russia said Monday it would hold talks with Washington on a total rebel withdrawal from Syria's Aleppo, where the army has made sweeping advances, but opposition factions rejected any evacuation.

President Bashar alAssad's forces have seized two-thirds of the former rebel bastion in east Aleppo since they began an operation to recapture all of the battered second city in mid-November.

The assault has raised an international outcry, but Russia and China Monday vetoed a UN Security Council resolution calling for a seven-day ceasefire in the city.

Tens of thousands of east Aleppo residents have fled to other parts of the city from the fighting, which has raised widespread international concern.

The rapid regime gains have left opposition fighters reeling, and earlier Monday Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said talks would be held on a rebel evacuation.

During the Russian-American consultations the concrete route and timeframe for the withdrawal of all fighters from eastern Aleppo will be agreed upon," Lavrov said, adding the discussions in Geneva would probably start on Tuesday or Wednesday "As soon as these routes and timeframes are agreed on, a ceasefire can come into effect," Lavrov said.

But rebel groups swiftly rejected any talk of an evacuation.

Yasser al-Youssef of the Nureddine al-Zinki faction, a leading rebel group in

A Russian soldier inspects the damage at a field hospital that was reportedly destroyed by rebel shelling on December 5, 2016 in the Furqan neighborhood of the government-held side of west Aleppo.

Aleppo, described any such proposal as "unacceptable".

"It is for the Russians to leave," he told AFP. Moscow is a close ally of Assad's government, and launched a military intervention in support of Damascus last year.

Government troops have also been bolstered by Iranian forces, fighters from Lebanon's Shiite Hezbollah movement and Shiite fighters from other countries.

'Revolutionaries won't leave' "The revolutionaries will not leave Aleppo and will fight the Russian and Iranian occupation until the last drop of blood," said Abu Abdel Rahman alHamawi of the Army of Islam, another smaller rebel group active in Aleppo.

Rebels have been forced to evacuate several of their strongholds in Syria during the conflict, including a string of areas near Damascus in recent months.

In many instances, they have reached deals with the government after months of army siege and fierce fighting, agreeing to lay down

their arms in return for safe passage to rebel territory elsewhere.

Among the most wellknown evacuations was the 2014 exit of rebels from the Old City of Homs after a two-year government siege.

But if Washington and Moscow were to agree a deal for a rebel evacuation from Aleppo, it would mark the first time that the two powers, which back opposing sides in the war, have negotiated the withdrawal of opposition forces.

Estimates for the number of rebels in east Aleppo vary, with the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights monitor putting the figure at 15,000 before the current assault began.

The UN's Syria envoy Staffan de Mistura in October put the number at 8,000 rebels, saying around 900 of them belonged to the Fateh al-Sham Front, Al-Qaeda's former Syrian affiliate previously known as Al-Nusra Front.

The loss of Aleppo would be the biggest defeat yet for opposition forces in Syria's five-year civil war.

(Agencies)

Indian-origin man charged with murder in the United States New York, Dec 06: A 50-yearold Indian-origin man has been charged with murder for stabbing his wife to death on a street here after an argument. Prem Rampersaud, who lives in Guyana, is temporarily residing with a friend in Queens.

Queens District Attorney Richard Brown said on Monday that he has been charged with murder in the multiple stabbing death of his wife Rajwantie Baldeo, 46, on the streets in Queens, just after midnight.

"This was an especially violent crime in which the defendant is accused of viciously taking the life of the woman he purportedly loved by repeatedly stabbing her following a heated verbal argument. If convicted, her brutal and senseless death merits serious punishment," Brown said in a statement.

Rampersaud is being held pending arraignment in Queens Criminal Court on charges of second-degree murder and fourth-degree criminal posses-

sion of a weapon. If convicted, he faces up to 25 years to life in prison.

According to the charges, Rampersaud met his wife as she finished work at a restaurant at approximately twelve midnight on December 5. It is alleged that they got into an argument and Rampersaud stabbed Baldeo multiple times in the body, fatally wounding her. Baldeo was taken to a local Queens hospital where she was pronounced dead. (Agencies)

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7

No plan to impose tax on farmers: Ravi Shankar Prasad Nainital, Dec 6: Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad has said that there was no plan to impose tax on farmers for their produce or on women for their jewellery.

Addressing a rally here as part of the BJP's ongoing parivartan yatra here yesterday, Prasad said the country was moving towards a cashless economy under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi whose demonetization move had made the rich bow to poor for the first time in the country.

"Income tax wouldn't be imposed on farmers, neither is there any plan to impose tax on jewellery.

All sorts of rumours are being spread to mislead people. But they should pay no attention to the rumours," the Union Law and IT Minister said.

"We are moving towards a cashless economy under the leadership of Modi and demonetisation is a step in that direction," he said.

Addressing the crowds, Prasad appealed to the public to maintain their patience and trust the

Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad. government and not be influenced by any rumours.

He said that no new taxes would be implemented on farmers and no new laws or taxes will be framed in relation to gold.

Prasad clarified that the step towards demonetization was taken to make the Indian currency stronger and to eliminate black money from the market.

He said that the general public was supporting the decision and it was only the opposition which had a problem with it.

Even leaders across the globe have praised the move, he said.

Prasad accused the opposi-

Noted industrialist and Chairman and Managing Director of MRF Tyres K M Mammen.

tion of diminishing the morale of the Army.

He said that while the families of the soldiers who died were happily willing to send their children in the Army, it was the opposition which was interfering with the Army.

Prasad said that in the past two-and-half-years of the party rule, no minister has been accused of any corrupt practices while this was a trend during the Congress regime.

Those who were present at the meeting included Bhagat Singh Koshyari, MP, Balraj Passi, coordinator Parivartan Rally and Ajay Bhatt, State BJP President. (PTI)

commitment to the development of the State of Tamil Nadu and its people, especially the under-privileged", he said in a statement.

"On the many occasions, I had the privilege to meet her, concerns of the industry were sympathetically heard and initiatives taken to address them. Under her stewardship, Tamil Nadu remains one of the States were industry has flour-

ished", he said.

"We will miss her dynamic presence and leadership and pray that her soul may rest in peace", he said.

Meanwhile, Tractors and Farm Equipment Ltd Chairman and CEO Mallika Srinivasan condoled the death of Jayalalithaa saying she left an "indelible mark" in the history of Tamil Nadu.

"Puratchithalaivi Jayalalithaa has been one of the most visionary and charismatic leaders of our State. With her compassion, courage and focus on the welfare of women and people of the State, she won millions of hearts and stood tall as a leader of the Tamil people", she said.

"Her dynamism and farsightedness drew industry and investment to the State. Jayalalithaahas left an indelible mark int he history of Tamil Nadu", she said in a statement.

(PTI)

Sensex rises for 2nd straight day ahead of RBI's monetary policy announcement New Delhi, Dec 06: Rising for the second straight day Tuesday, the benchmark Sensex rose over 43 points on optimistic buying by investors ahead of announcement of RBI's monetary policy review scheduled for tomorrow.

The 30-share index ended higher by 43.66 points, or 0.17 percent, to 26,392.76 after moving in range of 26,502.43 26,356.02. The gauge had gained 118.44 points in the previous session.

The NSE Nifty also gained 14.40 points, or 0.18 percent, to 8,143.15.

In Asia, most of the stock indexes rallied today as investors rediscovered their appetite for risk after the previous day`s losses fuelled by Italian uncertainty.

Markets were jolted and the euro tumbled to a 20month low Monday after Prime Minister Matteo Renzi said he would resign in the wake of losing

Soon, Ola cabs will drive to your doorstep with micro-ATMs Yes Bank and Ola launched a mobile ATM service where customers of any bank can withdraw up to Rs 2,000 per card from PoS terminals

Tamil Nadu lost a great leader: MRF Tyres CMD

Chennai, Dec 06: Noted industrialist and Chairman and Managing Director of MRF Tyres K M Mammen today condoled the death of J Jayalalithaa saying she has been a formidable Chief Minister and a role model to many leaders.

"ThesState has lost a great leader, a visionary and a beloved friend. She will always be remembered for her unwavering

P11

BUSINESS

New Delhi, Dec 06: Extending their partnership, taxi aggregator Ola and private lender Yes bank are jointly working on a mobile solution wherein cabs will bring cash to your doorstep via micro ATMs powered by the bank.

"This is part of our commitment to serve as many customers as possible.

We are working on a mobile solution with Ola, which means the cab will come to you to dispense money. We are in advance stages of closing out and are hopeful of launching the service in a week to 10 days maximum," Rajat Mehta, Senior President & Country Head, Brand & Retail Marketing, Yes Bank told PTI. Yes Bank and Ola launched a mobile ATM service where customers

of any bank can withdraw up to Rs 2,000 per card from PoS terminals from Ola cabs located near Yes Bank branch/ATM across 30 locations in 10 cities of the country.

"Right now, people have to come to the cab, here the cab will come to you. That will be another sort of customer experience we want to give to people. Through this, we will be able to reach a large customer base," Mehta said, explaining the rationale behind it being customers are finding it difficult to stand in long queues before banks/ ATMs for long when cash has become a scarce commodity.

He said Yes Bank wants to maximise its connect with the general public and ensure that there are as many touch points as possible.

a referendum on constitutional reform.

But players had moved on

by Tuesday and attention was turning back to the Federal Reserve`s expected interest rate rise next week, with traders hoping it will give some indication of its plans for 2017 as US President-elect Donald Trump embarks on a big-spending programme that will likely fan inflation.

On stock markets Tokyo ended 0.5 percent higher, while Hong Kong was up

0.8 percent. Shanghai ended down 0.2 percent.

Sydney gained 0.5 percent, Seoul was 1.4 percent higher and Taipei put on one percent.

The gains were also prompted by the Dow`s second record close in three days, helped by a jump in activity in the key US services sector.

At the start of European trade London, Paris and Frankfurt were all flat, while Milan edged up 0.2 percent. (Agencies)

"Our current campaign is about stationary cabs, that will be near and outside our ATM and branches. These will be stationed at high footfall areas. They will also move a little bit here and there through the day," he added.

When asked if customers will be charged if an Ola cab reaches them to dispense money, he said the idea is not to charge the customers as it is a service gesture.

"With Ola, we are working on multiple initiatives.

At stage two, we will ac-

All new Toyota Gold price plunges to 6-month low, Camry teased ahead dips below Rs 29,000 per 10 grams of Detroit debut New Delhi, Dec 06:

The new-generation Toyota Camry will make its public debut at the 2017 Detroit Motor Show.

New Delhi, Dec 06: The new-generation Toyota Camry will make its public debut at the 2017 Detroit Motor Show. Ahead of its reveal, Toyota has released a teaser image, showing part of the sedan's rear profile, and boy, what a change it is!

Pictured here in the sporty 'XSE' grade, the Camry seems to feature a coupeesque design, going by how the rear windshield swoops into the stubby boot. There's a strong shoulder-line that blends into the plus-sized LED taillight and there's a bootlip spoiler too. Like we've seen from Japanese carmakers of late, it's not a particularly subtle design and even has over-the-top elements like the air vents behind the rear wheels.

That said, the new Camry is expected to get a performance-oriented set-up, though company officials are yet to divulge any technical details.

The new Camry is based on Toyota's TNGA platform and, in all likelihood, it will be lighter than the outgoing model. We can also expect a wider range of connectivity options and improved efficiency from the powertrains, which may be reworked, but not replaced.

The sedan is one of Toyota's global best-sellers and arch-rival to the Honda Accord. Currently, in India, it is offered in two iterations - the standard 2.5-litre petrol-powered version that makes 181PS of power, and the 205PS hybrid that uses the same petrol engine in conjunction with a 605V electric motor. Prices currently range between Rs 30.2830.90 lakh, ex-showroom, Delhi.

While the new Camry will make its US debut in January next year, expect the Indian launch in early 2018, possibly at the Delhi Auto Expo.(Agencies)

Reliance Jio effect: BSNL users to get unlimited local and national calls at Rs 149 Image for representation purpose.

Both Yes Bank and Ola Cabs are working on that solution and it requires system and technology integration.

tually go to a customer who is in the cab and I don't think we will charge the consumer any extra," Mehta said.

Both Yes Bank and Ola Cabs are working on that solution and it requires system and technology integration.

The entire drive is to serve not only Yes Bank customers but the general public, he said, adding the bank is servicing its own customers well through ATMs and branch network.

"Because we want to go beyond our own customers, we are partnering for these kind of initiatives...So going beyond the normal touch points of 960 branches and 1,800-odd ATMs. This is an important initiative for creating solutions for the public," Mehta said. (Agencies)

New Delhi, Dec 06: Mukesh Ambani's extension of the Reliance Jio plan has already shook the telecom space in India.

Continuing with its telecom price war, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) is planning to give its users unlimited calls plan at Rs 149, as per a newspaper report.

With over 52 million customers taking Jio's free voice and data since its launch on September 4, Ambani announced 'Jio Happy New Year Offer' of free data, voice, video and applications till March 31 for new users joining from

December 4 as well as the existing ones.

However, the plan will come with a Fair Usage Policy (FUP) which will cap data for Reliance Jio customers at around 1 GB per day.

As per a report in the Economic Times, BSNL users will very soon be able to make unlimited local and national calls to any network for Rs 149 a month. This mobile tariff plan will also include 300 MB of data.

An announcement regarding the same is likely to be made on January 1, 2017, ET further said. (Agencies)

Tracking negative cues from the international market, gold prices on Tuesday dipped below the Rs 29,000 mark by falling Rs 250 to an over six-month low of Rs 28,800 per 10 grams.

Today's slump is the second straight session fall in gold prices.

Globally, gold fell to its lowest in 10 months yesterday as global equities strengthened as investors shrugged off worries of political instability in Italy, while US Treasury yields rose after US economic data.

Spot gold fell by as much as 1.6 percent to its lowest since February at USD 1,157 an ounce.

Higher appetite for risk curbs the appeal of assets viewed as safer, such as gold.

Gold fell more than 8 percent in November, hurt by a jump in the dollar and Treasury yields after Donald Trump`s surprise election to the US presi-

Spot gold fell by as much as 1.6 percent to its lowest since February at USD 1,157 an ounce. dency led to speculation that his commitment to infrastructure spending would spur growth and inflation.

Moreover, reduced offtake by jewellers owing to a considerable fall in demand at the domestic spot market in view of the prevailing cash crunch following demonetisation of highvalue notes hurt sentiment.

The government on November 8 had scrapped 500 and Rs 1,000 rupee notes to flush out black

money, leading to a cash crunch in the market.

In the national capital, gold of 99.9 per cent and 99.5 per cent purity plunged Rs 250 each to Rs 28,800 and Rs 28,650 per 10 grams, respectively -- a level last seen on May 31 when it had closed at Rs 28,850.

The precious metal had lost Rs 200 in yesterday's trade.

Following gold, silver ready declined by Rs 100 to Rs 41,100 per kg, but weeklybased one jumped by Rs 835 to Rs 41,200 on speculative activity. (Agencies)

E-retail, allied sectors to create 1.45 million jobs in India by 2021

Image for Representation purpose.

New Delhi, Dec 06: India's e-retail and allied sectors including logistics, warehousing and IT/ITeS are expected to create about 1.45 million direct jobs by 2021, a joint report by Snapdeal and KPMG said today.

Logistics and warehousing sector is expected to be the largest contributor creating direct employment opportunities for about 1 million, while e-tailing is expected to add 0.4 million high-skilled jobs by 2021, the study titled 'Impact of Ecommerce on Employment in India' said.

"Through this report, we aim to highlight how the industry is generating direct and indirect jobs in core and associated industries, creating entrepreneurship opportunities in the deepest pockets of India and how it is influencing the socio-eco-

nomic fabric of the country for a more balanced development," Snapdeal cofounder and CEO Kunal Bahl said.

The e-commerce sector in India is projected to cross USD 103 billion by 2020, while e-tailing is expected to account for 67 percent (USD 68.8 billion). Also, for every job that is created by the ecommerce industry, further 3-4 jobs can get created in downstream industries.

Besides, online seller base is projected to grow to 1.3 million by 2020 and expected to add more than 10 million net new jobs.

With about 70 percent of the online sellers expected to come from smaller towns by 2018-19, e-commerce is also creating a noticeable socio-economic impact by reaching interiors of the

country, the report said.

"Besides creation of employment in direct industries, e-tail has also provided new opportunities to craftsmen, traditional artisans, merchants, sellers and women. The speed and scale of potentially creating a larger socio-economic impact is noteworthy," it added.

E-tail has created a big impact on entrepreneurship and startup culture in the country and has helped people build careers from a range of varied skills such as developers, content writers, designers, photographers, etc.

It has also created a shift in employee expectations by offering employment options with exciting career paths, diverse opportunities, and new age jobs.

The study also outlined the potential challenges and recommendations on roles that government, industry bodies and e-commerce companies can play in building more employment avenues and upskilling.

The recommendations include need to invest in R&D for technology advancement, improving infrastructure and labour reforms, enhancing skills through vocational training and offering incentives on employment created by startups. (PTI)

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DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 7

P12 Match abandoned Sports Reporter Dibrugarh, Dec 6: The match of A-division cricket league tournament between Cosmo club and Tinsukia Town Club was today abandoned due to unfair means in the game and the match was immediately called off by the umpires.

Hockey colts have plenty at stake in Junior Evergreen beat Arunudoya World Cup, says Roelant Oltmans

Dhoni may play for India A vs England warm-up games in Mumbai PTI New Delhi, Dec 6 : India's limited overs captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni will hopefully get a chance to play atleast a couple of warm-up matches before the England ODI series starting in Pune on January 15, next year.

Before the start of the limited overs series, England are scheduled to play a warm-up matches (50 overs) against an India A on January 10 and 12 at the CCI ground in Mumbai.

Dhoni, who has not been playing since the home series against New Zealand in October, would have gone into the ODI series without proper game time for 77 days.

Dhoni has been training regularly with the Jharkhand Ranji team which has qualified for the knock-out stages of the Ranji Trophy.

However JSCA secretary Rajesh Verma had made it clear that Dhoni was only a 'mentor' to the team and will not be donning whites since he has already retired from Test cricket.

It will be interesting to see whether the selectors also pick young Rishabh Pant as a backup or a pure wicketkeeper knowing his big hitting skills in domestic cricket.

It will not be a bad idea if both Dhoni and his heir apparent play in the same game which could be a treat for the handful who will be attending the match.

Roelant Oltmans refused to predict India's chances in the event and said it be full of surprises and unpredictable.

PTI New Delhi, Dec. 6: The Junior Hockey World Cup not only provides India a chance to end their 15-year-old title drought in the event, but also gives the colts an opportunity to enter the senior core group which will be reformed soon, said the senior side's chief coach Roelant Oltmans.

Oltmans, who is the chief coach of the senior Indian hockey team till 2020 Tokyo Olympics, however, asked the junior players to fully concentrate on the job at hand as their performances in the World Cup

and next HIL will be taken into consideration while forming the new core group.

"I believe in quality and testing new players. I have told the junior players that a new core group will be formed after the 2017 HIL and everyone has a chance to get into it but that will depend on their performances in the World Cup and HIL," Oltmans, who is overseeing the preparations of the junior team alongside chief coach Harendra Singh, told PTI. "But I have also told them not to burden themselves thinking about the senior side now. Their main task

at present is to play as a team in the World Cup," he said.

Regarded as a hard taskmaster, Oltmans feels the hosts are among the most balanced in the Junior World Cup to be played in Lucknow from December 8 to 18.

"We have a balanced team and that is our strength. We have more experience than others because of playing in HIL. We have performed well in the last two years and we also have key players in every line," the legendary Dutchman pointed out.

"We will play as a team and aim for consistency. We will be playing attacking hockey."

Having said that, Oltmans,

however, refused to predict India's chances in the event, which according to him, will be full of "surprises" and "unpredictable".

"I know in India everyone wants to see the team win gold medal but this is not my style of working. Every team will come into the tournament expecting podium finish. But I always take one match at a time and my present target is our first game against Canada," he said.

"The interesting part about the Junior World Cup is that it is always full of surprises. If you look at the past, the tournament is very unpredictable."

Asked who would be the toughest opponents for India in the tournament, Oltmans said, "It is very difficult to say because most of the teams are on the same page. Australia, Germany, Argentina, Netherlands, England all will be out to prove a point."

India have been placed in Pool D alongside England, Canada and South Africa in the 16-team tournament. The hosts will open their campaign against Canada on the opening day on Thursday.

The only time India won the Junior World Cup was way back in 2001 in Hobart, Australia.

Jennings admits pressure, hopeful of England hitting back PTI Mumbai, Dec. 6: Uncapped opener Keaton Jennings on Tuesday conceded that England is under pressure after being 02 down in the five-Test series against India but said he is hopeful that his side will throw some punches back at the hosts in the fourth game starting in Mumbai on Thursday.

"It's pressure but I have always been taught that pressure is a privilege, sort of a thing my dad tried to infuse into me as a kid. I like to think that I bring positive energy and a smile to the group. I am generally quite a happy guy (person). But again, it's 20 down and gets into a tougher position. So, hopefully we can throw a few jibes and throw some punches back," said Jennings here ahead of the must-win game for En-

England's Keaton Jennings (lefty) and captain Alastair Cook look on during a training session at the Wankhede stadium ahead of the fourth test cricket match against India in Mumbai on Tuesday.

gland.

Jennings, son of wellknown coach Ray Jennings, is South Africaborn and has qualified to play for his adopted country following a fouryear residence in England. He has replaced teenage opener Haseem

Hameed, who is out of the remainder of the series with a finger fracture.

England are trailing India 0-2 after losing the second and third Tests in Visakhapatnam and Mohali respectively. The first Test was drawn at Rajkot.

Asked how he would cope with the spin threat posed

by India's attack, Jennings said if he can come out on top of the Indian spinners it would a humbling experience for him.

"I leave that to you to answer in a couple of days of play. There is no better place to come and challenge yourself.

If I can play and come out with some sort of success, that would be humbling," the left-handed batsman said.

"If I don't play then I will carry drinks, but I am looking forward to getting involved."

Having coached the Royal Challengers Banglore in the Indian Premier League, Jennings senior has good experience of the Indian conditions and he has given his son some tips ahead of the series.

"I have got quite a good relationship with my dad

(Ray Jennings), from the playing point of view, my dad asked me to enjoy the process and culture of India. I have been told to drink lot of water and to ensure that the bottle is closed," Jennings said.

"Previously, in 2009-10, I came with my dad to the IPL, (more so) as a tourist, really enjoyed and I am coming back to the place which I loved," he told reporters after the team's practice session at the Wankhede stadium here.

"When I was 9-10 years old, we (me and my dad) were into the nets, we were kind of training and those where some of the days, when I decided not to listen. First ball I got out, second ball I got out, and he said one more time and you are going out, the third ball , I got out and he put his bag down and walked off," he added.

Sports Reporter Dibrugarh, Dec. 6: Evergreen Club defeated Arunudoya Unnayan Samity by 64 runs in the senior division cricket league tournament organized by Dibrugarh District Sports Association at DDSA stadium here today.

Electing to bat first, Evergreen piled up 215 for nine in stipulated 35 overs. Umesh Raut smashed 53 off 41 balls,

laced with nine boundaries and one six. Kalyan Meach contributed 36 off 74 deliveries with three boundaries and Manash Dutta chipped in with 23 off 17 balls, hitting five boundaries.

For Arunudoya Unnayan Samity, Amit Das hauled six for 30 in 7 overs.

In reply, Arunudoya Unnayan Samity were bundled out for 151 in 29.2 overs. Bipin Rai scored 41 off 53 balls,

Warner century lifts Australia to 378-5 against NZ

David Warner AFP Canberra, Dec. 6: David Warner hit his sixth one-day century of the year to lead Australia to an imposing 378 for five after being sent into bat by New Zealand in the second ChappellHadlee Trophy game here today.

Warner smashed 119 off 115 balls to lead a bevy of big scores by the Australians at the bat-friendly Manuka Oval.

The Black Caps must win to keep alive their hopes of retaining the trophy after losing by 68 runs in Sydney on Sunday.

But New Zealand skipper Kane Williamson's gamble to send the Australians into bat backfired spectacularly when the home side feasted on a perfect batting wicket.

Skipper Steve Smith hit 72 off 76 balls, newcomer Travis Head plundered 57 off 32 balls and

Mitchell Marsh bludgeoned seven sixes in a unbeaten 76 off just 40 balls to give the Black Caps a hefty target to chase down under lights in the evening session.

The pugnacious Warner raised his 10th ODI century off 101 balls to continue his outstanding form with the white ball.

It was his third ton in his last five ODI innings and his first against New Zealand.

Only three other Australian batsmen have scored more hundreds in ODIs -- Ricky Ponting (30), Mark Waugh (18) and Adam Gilchrist (16).

Warner was out to a low catch from Williamson at cover off medium-pacer Colin de Grandhomme in the 37th over, ending a 145-run partnership with Smith.

Smith followed up his career highest ODI score of 164 in Sydney with 72.

victory over Bangladesh.

Pacer Ben Duckett, Steven Finn and James Vince will return home after the Test series.

Under Morgan and head coach Trevor Bayliss, England have won nine of their last 12 ODIs. England will play three ODIs and three T20s during the three-week tour with the ODI opener taking place on January 15 in Pune.

Before the start of the limited overs series, England are scheduled to play a warm-up matches (50 overs) against India A on January 10 at the CCI ground in Mumbai.

Indian limited-overs captain Mahendra Singh

Dhoni might get some game time during this

warm-up game. Dhoni has not been playing since the home series against New Zealand in October.

England ODI Squad: Eoin Morgan (Captain), Moeen Ali, Jonathan Bairstow, Jake Ball, Sam Billings, Jos Buttler, Liam Dawson, Alex Hales, Liam Plunkett, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, David Willey, Chris Woakes.

England T20 Squad: Eoin Morgan (Captain0, Moeen Ali, Jake Ball, Sam Billings, Jos Buttler, Liam Dawson, Alex Hales, Chris Jordan, Tymal Mills, Liam Plunkett, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, David Willey.

The Australian skipper, who was struck a painful blow in the groin by a de Grandhomme delivery on 56, sliced to Mitchell Santner at deep point when he was on top of the New Zealand bowlers.

Head hit his second halfcentury of the series before he was caught off Tim Southee.

Aaron Finch, dropped two balls before by wicketkeeper BJ Watling, was bowled attempting to sweep spinner Santner for 19 in the 13th over, ending a 68-run opening stand with Warner.

Australia made one change, bringing in allrounder James Faulkner for leg-spinner Adam Zampa, while there was still no place for Glenn Maxwell.

New Zealand brought back experienced paceman Southee for Lockie Ferguson.

BCCI undecided on fate of India-England fifth Test

Morgan returns to lead England in ODI series vs India PTI London, Dec. 6: Limited-overs captain Eoin Morgan will return to lead England in the OneDay International and Twenty20 series against India, which starts next month.

The 30-year-old Morgan will be joined in both the squads by top-order batsman Alex Hales.

Both the players are back in the international set-up after having opted out of the ODI series in Bangladesh in October due to security concerns.

Middle-order batsman Joe Root also returns to the 15-member squad having been rested for England's ODI series

hitting two boundaries while Akash Singh contributed 31 off 28 balls with four boundaries.

Zakir Hussain chipped in with 27 off 26 balls with the help of four boundaries.

Gaurav Dutta bagged five for 27 in six overs for Evergreen Club. Umesh Raut was adjudged man of the match.

Tomorrow, Jalukpara Boys Club will play Jeoti Moral Sangha.

IANS Mumbai, Dec 6 : The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Tuesday said the fate of the fifth and final Test against England, scheduled from December 16 in Chennai was still undecided, following the death of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa.

Jayalalithaa was declared dead at the Apollo Hospitals on Monday night after a 74-day battle for life.

Addressing reporters after the senior Tournament Committee meeting

here, BCCI Secretary Ajay Shirke said the board is in constant touch with the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association on the matter.

"BCCI condoles the sad demise of the Tamil Nadu Chief Minister, Ms. J. Jayalalithaa," he said.

"BCCI would like to inform that no decision has been taken regarding hosting of the fifth match of the Test series against England in Chennai from December 16."

"BCCI is in constant touch with Tamil Nadu Cricket Association and

local authorities and constantly monitoring the situation. BCCI fully understands the sensitivity of the matter and will keep everyone informed," Shirke added.

Shirke also informed that the Group B Ranji Trophy game between Orissa and Jharkhand, which was slated to played at Dindigul in Tamil Nadu from Wednesday, has been rescheduled.

"The Round- 9, Group B game of the Ranji Trophy, between Orissa and Jharkhand, which was suppose to take place in Dindigul from December 7 will be rescheduled.

Fresh venue and dates of this match will be announced soon," he said.

The board's senior Tournament Committee also decided to revoke rescheduling of matches between Bengal and Gujarat and Hyderabad and Tripura, which had to be called off due to smog in New Delhi last month, and instead awarded one point each to all the four teams.

Tele : 0373-2327517

Editor: Prahlad Hammey

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