Wednesday, nov 16, 2016

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ASSENG/2015/64205

TOURISM IN JAMMU AND KASHMIR Centenarian late Toya Pertin, a renowned social worker passes away

Staff Reporter Pasighat, Nov 15: Centenarian, late Toya Pertin, who was known for his pioneering activities in encouraging WRC/TRC cultivation of Paddy crop in Adi belt and founding father of present day Kiyit village under Mebo Sub-Division, breathed his last on Sunday last at 101 years age.

Late Pertin had also served as erstwhile British Political Interpreter from 1947 to 1954 and in recognition of his yeoman services across the then North Eastern Frontier Agency, now Arunachal Pradesh, the then Governor of Assam, Vishnu Sahay awarded him excellence award in the year 1966. Late Pertin, who was also lovingly called as Nabu or Payi Toya among his friends and peers, was the first Zila Parishad Member from the then individed Mebo Banggo during the year 1972-75.

Besides all these, late Pertin served his people under various capacities like Banggo Secretaries etc, informed Lining Pertin, his one of the son. According to his son, late Pertin is survived by three sons and three daughters along with grandchildren.

As a mark of respect to his great departed soul, the Annual Upper Primary School Level Games & Sports Meet-2016 Organizing Committee headed by Bodong Yirang, Chairman (Rtrd, DEE) and Secretary General ABK observed a 2 minute silence in the Kiyit School playground before the start of the final football match of the Sub-Divisional level football competition on 14th November.

Six shops at Kharsang Bazaar gutted to ashes Lomhom Tangha Kharsang, 15 Nov: Yesterday night at around 11PM six stationary shops including two PDS items shops were destroyed by fire. The reason of the fire was believed to be due to short circuit out of the lose electrical fittings as per the eye witnesses. Though the Fire brigade from geo enpro petroleum limited rushed the spot, the said shops could not be saved. However, they could mitigated the further spread of the fire to nearby shops after toiling for an hour. The six shops are said to have belonged to Mr. Shahid auddin, Mr. Babu and Mr. Mani sen who were running under the aegis of local licencees. It is also worth to be noted that the fire accident occurs every year across the district at the back drop of the Dipawali where the shops usually contain the unsold crackers which sometimes is a cause of adding intensity when the short circuits is taken to be the reason of the fire.

Nevertheless, there was no news of lost of lives in the fire accident. The total estimated cost of both cash and commodities is roughly calculated to be worth 10 lakhs including 70,000 cash kept in the shop by one of the victim shop keepers which was brought back from bank after he could not deposit the same in the bank.

Car accident at Kharsang

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Lomhom Tangha Kharsang, 15 Nov: A recently bought Alto 800 car bearing registration no. AR 12 6319 of Mr. Natsin Sena of Nongtham village while returning from his office under power department, kharsang met with an accident today at 9.20 AM. The driver sustains minor injury while the car got completely destroyed which fell into the gorge after rolling down several times.

Vol. II

Issue 120

Dibrugarh, Wednesday, November 16, 2016

Demonetisation of currency : agony and estasy of black holders

P7

Price -

5.00

Pages- 12

PAGE 12

HOW TO BE A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESS OWNER

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P9

Hayuliang Bye-Election

Campaigning for Dasanglu Pul picks up PPA president, Bengia expects optimistic win of Dasanglu Pul BJP candidate Bishnu Rana Hayuliang, Nov 15

Anjaw bye - election has picked up in unprecedented turn, first time in the history of 45th Hayuliang Constituency after the death of Late Kalikho Pul former CM. A democratic war between Dasanglu Pul widow of late Pul and Yompi Kri wife of Er Lapalum Kri, Chief Engineer of PHED a straight fight between two ladies have hogged the entire Anjaw district. Visit of Pema Khandu CM twice in the district including various stalwart of both BJP and PPA working with full force to woo the electorate for the victory of BJP-PPA candidate Dasanglu Pul. In his short interaction with this correspondent in the sideline of the election campaign, Khafa Bengia President PPA expressed optimistic of winning his projected candidate. “PPA – BJP party unanimously decided to field Dasanglu Pul as capable candidate in BJP ticket and get her elected in huge margin to show the Modi government over our deep respect and love to late Pul. We have cent percent hope of winning our candidate with

A DEMOCRATIC WAR IN ANJAW A straight fight between two ladies, Dasanglu Pul widow of late Pul and Yompi Kri wife of Er Lapalum Kri have hogged the entire Anjaw district Khafa Bengia President PPA expressed optimistic of winning his projected candidate The constituency with a total electorate Khafa Bengia of 11,003, including 5,508 female voters, The counting has 81 polling stations of which three– Kibitho, Aphumna and Taflagam–are of votes will take on situated near the International Border with place November 22 China. thumping vote percentage”, he says in upbeat expect.

Under the dynamic leadership of Pema Khandu CM we resolve to put every possible means to usher this border district in certain height after the election to fulfill the dream of late Pul “, he swears.

The President also cites tremendous scope of Anjaw in horticulture, border trade and hydro power sector if harness in right perspective.

He further appeals the voters of 45th Hayuliang constituency to exercise their franchise free and fair to elect the BJP candidate for overall

development of the district.

When asked about reopening of border trade with China under ‘Look East Policy’, Bengia said that the district has close porous border with China if this route reopen we could trade our Horticulture, Agriculture and rich handloom and Handicraft items with China resulting economic prosperity of the local people and for this region.

He also assured to pursue with the government after the completion of this bye election.

Yesterday, addressing an election rally at Hayuliang, Chief Minister Pema Khandu

appealed to the people to vote for Dasanglu as a mark of respect to the former chief minister.

While assuring the people of his government’s all-out support for the overall development of the border district, he also promised to review road compensation rate, promote large cardamom cultivation and shift the present firing range of the Army at Cherang to elsewhere.

State BJP president Tapir Gao, Home Minister Kumar Waii also made pleas to the voters to support Dasanglu for the development of the district bordering China.

The constituency with a total electorate of 11,003, including 5,508 female voters, has 81 polling stations of which three–Kibitho, Aphumna and Taflagam–are situated near the International Border with China.

The highest numbers of electors are in Hayuliang polling station with 955 voters while Malogam polling station has only two.

The seat had fallen vacant after Pul committed suicide on August 9 this year.

The counting of votes will take place on November 22.

Winter session of Parliament

United opposition to confront Modi Govt over demonetization The winter session of Parliament, starting November 16, is likely to see a united opposition confront the Modi government over demonetization PTI New Delhi, Nov 15

A Congress-led opposition today came together seeking to pin down the government on the demonetisation issue in the Winter Session of Parliament beginning tomorrow but a consenses eluded on TMC's proposed march to Rashtrapati Bhawan for meeting the President.

The leaders will meet again tomorrow to finalize the strategy on the issue agreeing at the meeting to use "all parliamentary tools including a demand for constituting a joint parliamentary committee to go into the issue and hold the government to account.

Contd. on Page 2

Supreme Court refuses to stay ban on Rs 500, Rs 1000 notes ET Bureau New Delhi, Nov 15 The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to stay the Modi government's notification demonetizing Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes but asked the Centre to file an affidavit giving details of steps taken to ease inconvenience faced by citizens due to long queues at banks and ATMs. "We will not be granting any stay," a bench comprising Chief Justice T S Thakur and D Y Chandrachud said hearing a batch of pleas against

YES TO BAN The Supreme Court on Tuesday refused to stay demonetization.

It asked the government to file an affidavit giving details to ease inconvenience to public.

The next hearing will take place on November 25. demonetization. The remarks were made after some advocates insisted on a stay.

Contd. on Page 2

Demonetisation impact Illegal felling of 'Lohit Kiosk' tress rampant in Villagers in Tirap district launched in Tezu Lakhipathar Forest

TOWARDS DIGITAL INDIA Lohit Kiosk is an egovernance endeavor

Deputy CM Chowna Mein inugurated the Kiosk ET Bureau Tezu, 15 Nov

There is something to cheer for residents of the Tezu as the District Administration in an e-governance endeavor, a latest initiative towards integrated Citizen Services Kiosk System by name Lohit Kiosk was set up by the

People can access to any kind of information like important telephone numbers, information about history, geography, culture etc of the districts, disaster management, Swachh Tezu, first aid guide, Lohit Tourism, One Touch Helpline National Informatics Centre (NIC). The Lohit Kiosk was inaugurated by Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein in presence of Deputy Commissioner Danish Ashraf at National Informatics Centre(NIC) in DC Office on Tuesday.

Contd. on Page 2

A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Nov 15

Lakhipathar Reserve Forest under Digboi Forest Division has come under threat due to rampant and illegal felling of trees. The forest, which till a few years ago was the pride of the region, has now become a hunting ground of unscrupulous timber smugglers in the absence of any action by the Forest department to stop the menace.

“Timber smugglers enter the forest in broad daylight and cut down trees while forest office staffers stay inside the office pretending that nothing has happened,” Debojit Moran, Secretary of Green Bud NGO said. He added that Hollock tree which is the state tree of Assam were mostly targeted by the timber mafia.

According to source the mafia used elephant and trucks

to take way the logs from the forest. Moran alleged that unholy nexus between the forest official and timber mafia has been rising from time to time and to earn a hefty sum of money they are destroying the environment. “We appeal the Forest Minister to take necessary action against the forest official Lokheswar Gogoi who is involved in this crime,’’ he alleged.

Sources said that Lokheswar Gogoi, a forest official under Lakhipathar Forest range was hand in gloves with the timber mafia. “Two to three forest official are involved in the illegal business and after knowing all this things DFO Bipul Borah is not taking any action against the forest officials,’’ alleged Moran.

Contd. on Page 2

adopt unique method to deal cash crunch ET Bureau Khonsa, 15 Nov

When people across the country are facing a cash crunch, villagers in Arunachal Pradesh have gone back to old ways. Villages such as Chinghan, Horu Chinghan, Konyu, Konsa, Noglo, Nisa, Changkhao, Pongkong on the Myanmar border in Arunachal Pradesh are unfazed by PM Narendra Modi’s historic decision to demonetise Rs 500, Rs 1000 notes. They have simply gone back to barter, part of their way of life anyway, a report said.

On an initiative ordered by Chief Minister Pema Khandu,

the district authorities organised a currency disbursement van and the local SBI branch has started helping people exchange their old notes, said Denghai Bosai, Deputy Director of Arunachal IPR. But other areas in the northeast have been experiencing hardships.

up to 100 km on shared taxis, they have to return after seeing the ‘No Cash’ notice outside the bank,” said Hage Ruja, additional deputy commissioner of Anjaw. Hawai also has the only ATM in the district, now shut for almost a week now.

In Anjaw, which shares a boundary with both China and Myanmar, people are facing a crunch of notes. “Believe it or not, Anjaw district has only one SBI branch, located at Hawai.

Even under normal circumstances, people have to travel to Hawai to withdraw or deposit money. They have been facing unbelievable difficulty because even after travelling

Currency consignments anyway take a long time to reach remote towns of Arunachal Pradesh, many of which are not connected by proper roads. “We initially thought of air-dropping notes to remote circle towns. But then when that did not work out, we are now sending currency stocks by road,” said Tilak Dhar, SBI deputy general manager in charge of the state.

Lakhimpur and Baithalangso Bypoll

Demonetization poses problem for both parties and voters ET Bureau/Agencies Guwahati, 15 Nov

As the state prepares for bypolls to the Lakhimpur Lok Sabha seat and the Baithalangso assembly constituency, slated for November 19, the demonetization of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes has posed a problem for both parties and voters.

Though no leaders from

either BJP or Congress went on record about the impact of the demonetization on the bypolls, they did concede that voters are now preoccupied with the issue. The byelection seems to have taken a backseat for a while, they said.

BJP workers on the ground, especially in Lakhimpur which covers eight assembly segments, said the voters are feeling the heat. The enthusiasm about the byelection seen among voters

initially has died down now.

"People are more concerned about getting their old notes exchanged or withdrawing cash from banks than about the bypolls. The opposition parties are also playing a role in aggravating confusion," a BJP worker in Dhemaji said.

There has been no slump in campaigning, however, postdemonetization, BJP spokesperson Rupam Goswami said. "As of now,

there is no problem in our campaigning. We are issuing both new and old notes. Most of the campaign logistics are taken care of on credit, which will be settled later," Goswami said.

Congress did not agree, though.

"In every constituency I visit, people talk about exchanging old notes. I came across many small traders who are in dire straits now,"

Congress spokesperson Apurba Bhattacharya said.

Bhattacharya said meeting daily election expenditure has become a problem despite adhering to the expenditure limit.

In the meantime, BJP has taken care of one section of the vote bank by resolving the problem of payment to tea garden workers, who had played a significant role in BJP's victory in both the

parliamentary and assembly elections. Two seats of the eight under Lakhimpur constituency form a sizeable tea garden voter base.

On Sunday, finance minister Himanta Biswa Sarma had said the Reserve Bank of India has made an exception for the tea garden management, allowing them to hand out cheques to deputy commissioners who will withdraw the requisite amount and pay the garden management so that they can

hand out the daily wages. "It is a much-needed respite.

Otherwise, tea garden voters would have gone against us," a BJP worker in Chabua assembly constituency said.

The Lakhimpur Lok Sabha seat had fallen vacant after Sarbananda Sonowal, who represented the constituency, became chief minister. The Baithalangso assembly seat, which was with Congress, had to be vacated after the incumbent MLA Man Sing Rongpi joined BJP.

cmyk

PAGE 10

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16

P2 Assam student, Abhishek Saharia wins National 14 kg tortoise Child Award for Exceptional Achievement 2016 rescued in Jorhat ET Bureau Beltola November 15: The National Child Awards giving ceremony for Exceptional Achievement was held on the occasion of Children’s Day on 14th November last at RashtrapatiBhavan. The President, Pranab Mukherjee gave away the awards to children for their outstanding achievements and to individuals and institutions for contributing to child development and child welfare.

Abhishek Saharia, a student of class XI, K e n d r i y a Vi d y a l a y a , Khanapara, Guwahati has brought laurels to the state by winning silver medal alongwith a cash prize of Rs 10,000.00 and a book voucher of Rs

It may be mentioned here that Abhishek has also secured school gold medal in Science Olympiad conducted by Science Olympiad Foundation and qualified in State level National Talent Search Examination (NTSE).

3000.00 for his exceptional achievement in the field of innovation.

Abhishek Saharia was

Aries

Today's energy may highlight your popularity, Aries. The transits boost your enthusiasm and energy for doing things. People will feel drawn to you. You might even find that others look up to you. This kind of popularity can make you feel special and lucky. On the flip side, it can make you think you're better than you are. Don't get carried away. Use this influence for good.

Taurus

Today should present a very positive influence for you, Taurus. The energy at play will allow for such things as making excellent decisions. Things will go more quickly than usual. Cooperation from colleagues, physical energy, and a sharp mind will support you. What more could you ask? You may find that almost everything goes your way and laughter fills the hours. Give yourself a pat on the back, because you should be able to handle everything.

Leo

Virgo

Libra

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

Telecom department " said Purna Bikash Bora, a local youth.

The public of that area called the forest department and the tortoise is rescued and freed it in the Rajmao Pukhuri of the city.

The forest department and locals suspect that the tortoise came out from the swamp near by.

State training workshop on internet safety at Guwahati

awarded Inspire Award Certificate for innovation in Science Pursuit by the Ministry of Women & Child Development,

Govt. of India for his innovative project of designing and preparing an infrared blind aid kit.

The National Child Awards for Exceptional Achievement gives recognition to children with exceptional abilities in fields such as academics, culture, arts, sports, music etc.

HOROSCOPE

Cancer

" we saw the tortoise near a pit, which is dug by

Abhishek Saharia is the only son of Tarun Ch Saharia and Papari Saikia, resident of Jayanagar, Sixmile, ET Bureau Guwahati, November 15: Khanapara.

AJYCP’s PROTEST IN MARGHERITA

Gemini

ET Correspondent Jorhat, 15 Nov: Around 14 kilo tortoise is been recovered in Nepha Gate area of Jorhat by consious locals of the area on Tuesday evening. The tortoise is wondering around near a pit, when some locals saw the huge tortoise.

Be tactful when speaking today, Gemini. With this day's energy, it's important that you take the time to think about how your words affect the person you're talking to. It can be easier than usual to say the wrong thing, especially if you're in the position of telling someone something you think might not go over too well. Avoid comments that suggest criticism of the person rather than the deed.

Today, Cancer, don't be too surprised if you have difficulty getting into a work frame of mind. It's likely that you'd rather daydream than be in the real world. You're susceptible to daydreaming and taking imaginative trips. Consider making a list of everything that you need to do to help you focus.

This will help you meet your short-term objectives, and you can take it easy this evening.

You may find today that people are really attracted to you as a friend. This is because you're usually a good listener. You're open to other people's ideas and thoughts and can care easily.

Consider noticing those around you to see if there isn't someone who could use a hug or an ear to listen to a problem. It may not take a lot to get someone talking.

It's good to dream, especially on days like today, Virgo. Expanding your mind and thinking of possibilities are positive ways to increase your knowledge. Give yourself time to think. Why not lie on your back and watch the clouds or stars? Let yourself dream about things that may not seem practical or possible. Many real things have come out of someone's dreams. Your creativity will flourish if you take the time.

Today's energy may highlight your popularity, Aries. The transits boost your enthusiasm and energy for doing things. People will feel drawn to you. You might even find that others look up to you. This kind of popularity can make you feel special and lucky.

On the flip side, it can make you think you're better than you are. Don't get carried away. Use this influence for good.

Today you may meet a new friend, Scorpio. People tend to feel comfortable around you even if they're different than you are. That's because you usually accept the fact that everyone is different and that's OK. This is a rare and special quality - not everyone is as open-minded as you! Plan to do something with your new friend or hang out with another special person. There will be no lack of people interested in spending time with you.

You have an incredible imagination, Sagittarius.

Today is a great day to put it to use. Take time to engage in creative activities and try meditation, story planning, role playing, or visualization. You have a powerful tool to unlock inner fears and inhibitions, increasing your confidence and creativity and solving life's challenges. If this is a new idea for you, consider learning more about meditation to connect with your inner self.

Chances are good that you will feel strong and confident today, Capricorn. It's a good time to try something you've never done before. You might be the right person to get things started, especially if it's about something you want to see changed. If you've never run for office before or taken a leadership role in another area, consider doing this. You have the power and popularity to make a real difference.

The energy of the day should have you feeling pretty good, Aquarius. Your spirits should be high, and laughing may well be a good part of your day.

When you laugh, it gets other people going. This is a powerful effect to have. You may find that you can transfer the enthusiasm and good feelings you have to those around you. Share your positive energy by smiling, laughing, and just being yourself.

Expect a boost in popularity today, Pisces. One way to put this to good use is to bring about change. Perhaps you and your co-workers feel that the workplace needs a new program, such as benefits. You'd be a good one to present this to the decision makers. Even if it's been done before, use your popularity to start a petition or find creative ways to make a group more effective.

Activists of Asom Jatiyotabadi Yuba Chatra Parishad Margherita Regional Committee today again sat for Dharna for three hours at Ledo Central Rangamancha in protest against the ongoing illegal coal trade at Margherita Region. General Secretary of AJYCP Kanchan Bora hold JK Borah ,the General Manager of NECF Coal India Limited Margherita for the rampant illegal coal trade in the area. He accused him of even encouraging educated unemployed youths of Margherita Region to procure money through illegal coal trade.

Photo and news by Mithun Baruah

Guwahati Frontier BSF observes World Diabetes Day A Staff reporter Guwahati, 15 Nov: World Diabetes Day was observed by Border Security Force, Guwahati Frontier on 15th Nov 2016, at BSF Campus, Patgaon.

During the programme, Dr Prasun Maiti, CMO (SG) and other doctors educated the audience comprising of Officers, Sub-Ordinate Officers and Other Ranks of BSF and NDRF along with their families. Addressing the

audience, Dr Prasun Maiti, CMO (SG), Patgaon highlighted that Diabetes comprise of complex groups of diseases which had variety of causes.

People with diabetes have high level of glucose in which is also called high blood sugar or hyperglycemia.

The only prevention for a diabetic person is to maintain his body weight by maintaining a strict diet control and physical

activity. He also said that diabetes could notcured. He emphasized that special attention should be given to exercise, physical activity and stress management to help patients adapt with the challenges of day-to-day diabetes management. Similar awareness programmes were also conducted in the Battalions and Sector Headquarters of Guwahati Frontier at Dhubri, Falakata& Cooch Behar.

Supreme Court refuses to stay ban on Rs 500, Rs 1000 notes Contd. from Page 1 Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for one of the petitioners, however, said he was not asking for a stay on the notification but seeking answers from the government about the steps taken to remove public inconvenience.

The bench asked Attorney

General Mukul Rohatgi to file an affidavit about the measures already undertaken by the government and the RBI to minimise public inconvenience and also the steps likely to be undertaken in future.

Without issuing any notice to the Centre or the RBI, the bench posted the matter for further hearing on November

25.

Attorney general Mukul Rohatgi said the government estimates black money size to be Rs 15-16 lakh crore and it expects people to deposit Rs 10-11 lakh crore in banks.

"Rest Rs 4-5 lakh crore were being used in northeast and J&K to fuel trouble in India.

That will be neutralised," he said.

Illegal felling of tress rampant in Lakhipathar Forest Contd. from Page 1 Locals said negligence in taking action against the guilty had encouraged the smugglers to continue their activities.

“The depletion of the reserve forest is alarming. We have been asking the Forest authorities to take action but all the efforts have been in vain.

Unless something is done very soon the whole forest may remain in name only”, said

Gajen Gogoi, a local resident.

He added that 70 to 80 years Hollock trees are cutting down by the smugglers every day.

Local sources also alleged that there could be an unholy nexus between a section of forest officials and the timber mafia.

Cinema Galleria Cinema Dibrugarh Junction Mall

In order to empower Consumers on Internet Safety Consumers’ Legal Protection Forum, Assam in partnership with Consumer VOICE and support from Google is organizing Internet Safety Training Workshop at Hotel Ambarish, Ganeshguri, Guwahati on 17.11.2016.

HON’BLE MRS. JUSTICE (Retd.)

ANIMA HAZARIKA President, Assam State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission will grace the occasion as a chief guest which will have participation from Consumers, Consumer Groups, Civil Society organizations, Students and faculty members. The Internet security café will be conducted by for the audience

by Google and Consumer VOICE providing practical solutions to safeguard oneself while using Internet and use it most beneficially in the workshop. Advocate Ajoy Hazarika, Secretary Consumers’ Legal Protection Forum, Assam in a press statement said that “The NORTON Cyber Security firm has reported that in the year 2015, around 594 million worldwide were affected by cybercrime. Indian consumers are said to have lost around Rs. 1882 billion and only around 41% use secure password.

Around 61% worry that they will be a victim of cybercrime. According to Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI), the numbers of internet us-

Contd. from Page 1 On its part, TMC chief and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said her party will go ahead with its plans to meet the President tomorrow. Representatives of the National Conference and AAP are likely to accompany the TMC delegation.

At a meeting of 13 opposition parties including arch rivals TMC and CPI-M, besides BSP, SP, JD-U and

Congratulating the district administration for successful launch of the Kiosk, DCM Mein complimented the DC and his officers for kickstarting such innovative use of Information Technology within the district and state that it would immensely benefit the people and tourist coming from different places. He opined that other districts should also emulate and initiate such system to disseminate information to the people especially to tourists.

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Assam Governor lauds the efforts of Sagar Parasiri, a person on wheel chair ET Bureau Guwahati, November 15: It is revealed from the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Assam, Guwahati that the Hon’ble Governor of Assam Banwarilal Purohit on 14th of November, 2016 specially invited Sagar Parasiri, a 90% disabled person who is on a 7 day visit to Assam from New-Delhi with a mission to spread the message of peace among the people to Raj Bhavan and appreciated his efforts inspite of his physical challenges. It may be stated that Sagar Parasiri who was afflicted with cerebral palsy at the age of twelve, has so far visited twenty-five States and four Countries including United Kingdom and Sri Lanka and has been delivering lectures on promotion of peace and harmony to students, teachers and other audiences.

Parasiri has also authored three books on Peace, disability and Justice. During his visit to Assam, Parasiri will visit ten educational institutions including differently abled schools and deliver motivational talks.

DMK, opposition leaders unanimously concluded that it was too early to visit the President on the issue which must first be raised adequately in parliamentary forums.

Various parties have separately given adjournment notices in Lok Sabha and for suspension of proceedings in Rajya Sabha to discuss the issue and highlight the plight of the common man.

"So far as the march is concerned, there was

unanimous decision by everybody that the march tomorrow is too early. As an opposition party, we must have a march in due course of time, but not on the very first day.

On first day of Parliament, we must hold a discussion inside the House.

"There was an overwhelming consensus that there is no need to rush to Rashtrapati Bhawan on the very first day before bringing this issue before Parliament," Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said after the meeting.

'Lohit Kiosk' launched in Tezu

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ET Bureau Guwahati, November 15: The Constitution Day would be celebrated in the State on November 26 as per the decision of the Government of India which has decided that the “Constitution Day” would be celebrated every year on 26th November in the line it was celebrated in previous years. As part of the celebration the “Preamble” to the Constitution (as it exists today) wouldbe read out in all Government Offices and Educational Institutions on the “Constitution Day” i,e 26th November 2016. Apart from reading out of the Preamble, other activities like organizing mock Parliament, essay, debate competitions and lectures, etc, would be included and to identify more activities at the State level celebration of the Constitution Day in order to create awareness among people about the Constitution of India.

United opposition to confront Modi Govt over demonetization

Contd. from Page 1

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ers have gone up by more than 25% from 2001 to 2015. There were approximately 7 million internet users in the year 2001 which has grown to more than 40 million in number. Internet and mobile applications have contributed largely not only to economic development but also to citizen empowerment. In the era of e commerce, e bookings and e transactions, there is a growing need for greater awareness on how to make the Internet safe for users given that businesses, parents, children and governments use it to make their lives more comfortable, convenient, meaningful and informed. Because of all pervasive usage of Internet, there is also a need for securing the Internet so that it can be used with confidence and trust. Digital technology has become an integral part of our everyday lives. Digital India, as envisioned by Narendra Modi aims at digital empowerment of citizens and emphasizes the need for digital literacy. Along with the need for digital literacy comes the need for digital safety. Because of all pervasive usage of Internet, there is also a need for securing the Internet so that it can be used with confidence and trust. Consumer VOICE with support from Google took initiative to provide training and information on online Safety tools available and to share knowledge on various online security aspects across India through network of Voluntary Consumer Organizations.”

Constitution Day to be celebrated in the State on Nov, 26

Earlier, DC Ashraf explained DCM about the workflow of the kiosk system and underscoring its importance, he said that people can get detailed useful information about the districts at their fingertips. The Lohit Kiosk

will not only help the common man to reap benefits of computerization but would facilitate simpler and faster access to Government and the district, he added.

He informed that such more kiosks will be installed in other important places of the district very soon to help tourist during Parshuram Kund Mela held annually during month of January. The Lohit Kiosk will be placed in Jan Suvidha Centre for easy access to the public.

It is first of its kind touch-sensitive information Kiosk that has been launched by any district of Arunachal Pradesh.

With the inauguration of the Kiosk, Lohit also became the first district to demonstrate its commitment towards realizing the idea of Digital

India after it also launched the android (free) mobile app “Apna Lohit” early this year.

A citizen centric Kiosk installed at NIC centre in DC office is for common citizens for getting access to any kind of information like important telephone numbers, information about history, geography, culture etc of the districts, disaster management, Swachh Tezu, first aid guide, Lohit Tourism, One Touch Helpline etc are some of the important features of the Lohit Kiosk.

Information kept on the Kiosk will be updated regularly so that citizen can get latest information through this facility.

Among others, DIO NIC June Kadu, DSP K. J. Lego and officers and staffs of DC office were also present.

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16

For a better and healthier society, the freedom of Press must be respected: Governor ET Bureau Itanagar, 15 Nov: The Governor of Arunachal Pradesh V. Shanmuganathan has conveyed his warm greetings and good wishes to the media fraternity of the State.

He expressed his hope that the celebration of free Press and freedom of expression will instills new zeal and passion amongst the members the Fourth Estate.

In his message on the special occasion, the Governor said that media is the most powerful tool of communication. It helps in promoting the right things at right time and gives a real exposure about the realities. It has a constructive role to

play for the society as mouthpiece of social issues.

Therefore, it is of paramount importance that for a better and healthier society, the freedom of Press must be respected while the Press Media also maintain Press ethics.

He wished that the celebration of the Day encourages the media fraternities of the State to continue their indispensable contribution towards building stronger, healthier and more peaceful societies.

On the special occasion, I call upon all my fellow citizens to uphold the sanctity of the Fourth Estate, the Governor appealed in his message.

ALWS demands inquiry into the death of IRBn Constable A Staff Reporter ITANAGAR, 15 NOV : The All Liyang Welfare Society (ALWS), today in a letter to the state Chief Secretary demanded an inquiry into the recent death of IRBn Constable Ajit Sono of Sepiliyang village in East Kameng district.

Citing his unnatural death, the ALWS requested the chief secretary to set up an

inquiry committee to unearth the truth behind the death of one of its society members.

Late Sono of the 4th IRBn was found dead with his service rifle near Karsingsa sinking zone, between Nirjuli and Banderdewa road on November 9 last, under mysterious condition.

The police had informed that it was a case of suicide.

Kara Welfare Society organises health awareness Camp

ET Bureau Baririjo, 15 Nov: The Kara Welfare Society of Baririjo, in collaboration with Vihangam Yoga Shanstan, Jhusi in Allahabad, organised a health awareness camp at Baririjo town of Upper Sunansiri district on November 12 and 13 last.

A medical team from Aalo, under the guidance of MD Dr Gater Kena, and MO Dr

Y Bulo carried out health check-ups of hundreds of patients who had arrived from adjoining areas of the Baririjo circle.

Health awareness was also provided to them by the team members of Vihangam Yoga sansthan, engineer T Kena, Kishan Lal Sharma, Shiv Kumar Singh and KWS president Bommar Kena were the resource persons and gave useful health tips to lead a healthy life.

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Arunachal IMA backs ‘Stop NMC Satyagraha’ on Nov 16 A Staff Reporter Itanagar, 15 Nov: The Indian Medical Association (IMA), Arunachal State Branch today in a press briefing informed that it would support the IMA in its nationwide ‘Stop NMC Satyagraha’ scheduled for November 16 next by donning black badges during work hours.

State secretary of IMA, Arunachal, Jego Ori informed reporters that the IMA had postponed its satyagraha scheduled for 16 November, 2015 on favourable assurances received from the Government of India by formation of an inter-ministerial committee to examine the grievances of the IMA.

However, Ori said that not only did the committee sleep over the issues, but the Government of India scrapped the autonomous body of the Medical Council of India and replaced it with an entirely government-nominated body called the National Medical Commission (NMC), and claimed that the bill is antipeople in character.

“The Stop NMC Satyagraha is back as a reminder to the government to intervene and sort out the major problems faced by those in the medical profession”, the state IMC said.

Accordingly, on November 16, over 2.7 lakh doctors in all 686 districts and 17656 IMA branches across the country will participate in

the IMA satyagraha by participating in dharna, press meet, or don black badges and hand over a memorandum addressed to the Prime Minister of India to their respective Deputy Commissioners.

Also citing instances where patients or their attendants have resorted to acts of violence against doctors or hospital property, the IMA gave due importance to introduce a Central Hospital Protection Law.

All doctors in private and government hospitals will wear black badges as a mark of protest against the NMC during duty hours.

Demands of the IMA include scrapping the NMC, which the IMA opines is undemocratic and highly detrimental to budding doctors, community and medical associations. It suggested suitably amending the MCI Act without compromising the autonomy of the profession.

It also demanded urgent amendments in the Pre Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PC &P NDT), Act to ensure that strict penalties are imposed only on actual acts of sex determination or female feticide and not for clerical errors like maintenance of registers, and sought the removal of non-obstetric USG from the PNDT Act. Reasoning that a single doctor clinic is not capable of dealing with emergency

cases, the IMA also demanded exemption of single doctor clinics from the Clinical Establishments (registration and regulation), Act. This Act requires a single-doctor clinic to only refer a patient to another facility after he/she is stabilized.

It also demanded suitable amendments in Consumer Protection Act for capping the compensation amount, citing that compensation in medical negligence cases have to be at a reasonable limit as doctors do not charge their patients as per their incomes.

Enforcing the law that modern medicine drugs should be prescribed only by modern medicine doctors, and

that no Ayush doctors with bridge courses should prescribe any allopathic medicine was another one of its demands.

“We have studied and toiled for over eight years to provide the best medical attention to patients, and when Ayush or Ayurvedic doctors with only a few months of training prescribe allopathic medicines, they play with the lives of patients”, said Ori. Hoping a positive response from the government, the members of the state IMA said that this is the first step towards achieving their demands, and if required, they would step out onto the streets as well.

Deputy CM inaugurates Annual College Day celebration of Indira Gandhi Govt College in Tezu ET Bureau TEZU, NOVEMBER 15: Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein inaugurated the 27th Annual College Day celebration of Indira Gandhi Govt College amidst large gathering of public, govt officers, faculty members and students at Tezu today.

In his inaugural speech, the Deputy Chief Minister urged to transform the Institute into ideal centre of quality learning, equity and excellence to be the repository of knowledge in days to come. He exhorted the faculty members of the college to continue to work with the same zeal and passion to explore as well as to harness the innate literacy, cultural and athletic talents stored among the students.

He also urged them to inject innovative ideas and develop critical thinking among the students by organizing seminars, symposium, workshops and career counseling apart from regular academic classes.

He complemented the efforts and sincerity of the Principal, Faculty members and students of IGGC while saying that it is because of their continued endeavour the college has been awarded B++ Grade by the National Assessment & Accreditation Council (NAAC), Bangalore an assessment and accreditation

body under the University Grants Commission recently. He also lauded the young and innovative Deputy Commissioner of Lohit District, Danish Ashraf for his contribution towards this achievement and expressed hope that the young and talented IAS Officers posted in the state would continue to contribute towards the political and social development of the state to the best of their abilities.

Citing youths as source of strength & future representatives, he exhorted them to lead the society in right directions and appeal them to maintain high sense of discipline and character to be the role models for the youth of this region. He advised them to abstain from the use of abusive substances like drugs and alcohol and not to fall prey to the passing pleasures of such amusements saying, “these are momentary but bound to take away your strength & talent and spoil your career & future”.

He urged them to actively participate in co-curricular activities like games & sports, literature & cultural activities for all round development of their personality and to use their energy & strength in positive and fruitful social activities.

he would place priority on development of educational infrastructure from his available resources.

Tashi Taloh, Principal IGGC and Resamso Chokwa, General Secretary of College Student Union submitted memorandum to the Deputy Chief Minister.

On the occasion, the Deputy Chief Minister presented meritorious certificates to the toppers of various subjects. friends, he also advised them not to get disheartened or discouraged with little failures in their life saying that failure is the stepping stone to success and to bounce back like a ball bounces after hitting the ground to achieve new heights in life.

He informed that the state govt have enhanced the incentives to the civil service aspirants of the state in order to help and encourage our tribal student to clear the prestigious UPSC civil Services Examination to Rs 2 lakhs to those who clears UPSC Prelims and to Rs 3 lakhs to those who clears Mains Exam. He further expressed hope to see more students from our state to clear prestigious UPSC exam and joining central services like IAS, IPS, IRS, IFS etc. in coming days.

Addressing them as young

He added that efforts are on to look into the infrastructural and educational needs of all the govt colleges in the state in phased wise manner.

While saying that his visit in the college should bring some fruitful results, Mein assured to look into the construction of a Rostrum on the College Playground and asked the EE RWD Tezu to prepared an estimate for the same and to submit it for placing in the priority agenda of the AOP in the next financial year. He also said to look into the construction of a College Guest house with a capacity to accommodate 10 persons at a time and repair & maintenance of the internal roads of the campus and other requirements as submitted by the College Principal and General Secretary of the College Student Union

separately.

Danish Ashraf, Deputy Commissioner while attending the College Day Celebration as guest of honour in his speech said that we must implement in life what we learnt. He advised the student to adopt inter-disciplinary approach in their learning saying that one should not limit their knowledge to their choice of subject.

He urged the student community to cooperate the district administration in fighting against drug menace prevalent in the eastern sector of the state. He urged them to abstain from drugs and also from indulgence in too much politics.

He also urged the faculty members to impart moral value to the student while teaching. He also said that

The Deputy Chief Minister declared the four days Annual College Day Celebration opened and released two pigeons to mark the occasion and also administered oath to the students.

Earlier, DCM garlanded the statue of former Prime Minister Late Indira Gandhi and unfurled the Annual College Day Flag. He also lighted the Olympic Torch and took part in the opening game of Tug-of-war between the Guests and faculty members of the college.

Other attractions of the inaugural function include march past by the college students, multi-tribes mega dance, Mishmi, Khamti and Nepali dance.

Among others present were HoDs, PRI members, Public, Faculty members, officers and students.

Arunachal mountaineer felicitated: Nyethrii-dow festival concludes Mountain peak proposed to be with colourful ending named after Anshu A Staff Reporter Buragoan, 15 Nov: The five day colourful Nyethrii-dow festival of Aka (Hrusso) community came to an end with a glittering function here.

A Staff Reporter New Delhi, 15 Nov: Ace mountaineer Anshu Jamsenpa was felicitated in a public function organized by Adhunik India Foundation on November 13 last in New Delhi.

Chief Guest on the occasion, Jual Oram, Union Minister for Tribal Affairs, while showering appreciation for her mountaineering achievement stated that she is a big inspiration and a symbol of women empowerment. Uday Singh Mina, Director, Indian Railways Govt of India also congratulated three-time Everester Anshu for her recent double summit of Mt Gorichen East and an unnamed virgin peak in Arunachal Himalayas.

While thanking the organizers of the function, Anshu stated that today mountaineering is no longer about climbing

Addressing the huge gathering as chief guest, Bomdila MLA Japu Deru said that celebrations of such festival are like an identity card of our tradition and culture and it is necessary to take action for preservation of our culture and traditions.

He appealed to everyone to work hard for peace and tranquility and well being of all communities of the state.

mountains only. It is about exploration and opening of new vistas for generations to follow.

Chairman of Adhunik India Foundation D K Chauhan advocated and opined that the newly summitted peak 6493 mtr should be named ‘Anshu’ peak as she is the first mountaineer who took up the challenge to explore and chart the treacherous blue ice

route to the top.

He further stated that Anshu with a fellow mountaineer Shanti Rai from Sikkim had unfurled the national flag on this peak on October 21 last, which not many people knew until TOI featured it on their November 7 edition.

The Indian Mountaineering Foundation, the apex national body for mountaineering expeditions in

India also appreciated Anshu’s power point presentation on All Women Expedition to Gorichen range.

IMF President Colonel H S Chauhan, Chairman of the Expedition Committee Prem Singh DIG ITBP, Governing Council member Col Ajit Dutt, Brig K Kumar and several others congratulated Anshu for the double summit in one expedition.

Responding to a memorandum, he said that he would discuss on the matter of upgrading CHC Buragoan with the Minister of Health soon. He also requested the local MLA to provide Rs 5 lakhs from the Local Area Development Fund for construction of boundary wall around the festival celebration ground.

He also appreciated Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiative of demonitising Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes and requested the people to be patient.

Guest of honour, Tawang MLA Tsering Tashi said that such

festivals teach us a lesson on unity, brotherhood and remind us about our traditions and culture.

“The younger generation needs to carry the legacy of traditions and culture received from our forefather. Development is important but for existence we need to be recognised as tribal for which our traditions and cultures need to be preserved”, he said.

He also appealed to the people of Thrizino Assembly Constituency to support local MLA Kumsi Sidisaw for better development of the area.

MLA Sidisaw, who is also the

chief patron of the programme, said that the celebration of an indigenous festival is a symbol of unity and brotherhood among different communities of state.

“With rising westernization, people are avoiding traditional rituals and practices, and in turn forgetting their culture, this is an alarming period and if steps for their preservation are not taken, then we may lose our identity soon”, he asserted.

Central Nyethrii-dow Festival Committee chairman Nima Jebisow, secretary Jimmy Jebisow, Aka Elite Society vice president Labi Dususow and spokesperson Shariff Nimasow

also spoke on the occasion.

Among others, DC In-charge of West Kameng T Pada, ADC Thrizino Wangja Ramdasow, EAC Buragoan P Bora, Aka Elite Society chairman Govardhan Nimasow, senior leader Dibru Dususow, Gogoi Rijiju, HoDs, PRI members, gaon burrahs and locals were also present on the occasion.

In the evening, prizes were given away by the 44th Central Nyethrii-dow Festival Committee for various games and sports activities held during the five days celebration, which include football, volleyball, archery, among various other competitions.

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16

Moderate earthquake rocks Karimganj District, no casualties reported IANS Karimganj, 15 Nov: A moderate earthquake, measuring 5.0 on the Richter scale, rocked the northeastern states on Tuesday, an official said.

There were no reports of any casualties or damage.

The tremors were felt at 7.40 a.m. with an epicentre located in Assam's Karimganj district bordering Bangladesh, an official of the Regional Seismological Centre in Shillong said.

The seven northeastern states -Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur - are considered by seismologists as the sixth major earthquakeprone belt in the world.

Ulfa-I asks people of Assam to unite against citizenship bill ET Bureau Guwahati, 15 Nov: As the clamour against the Centre's move to amend the Citizenship Act, 1955, rises, banned outfit Ulfa (Independent) asked indigenous people of the state to unite against the move.

"Throughout history, Assam and its indigenous population have been victims of linguistic and religious politics. Only sovereignty can save the state from such politics," Abhijit Asom, the hardline faction's chairman, said in an email statement.

The amendment would enable illegal migrants belonging to religious minorities from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan to settle in the country and make them eligible for Indian citizenship.

Earlier, Ulfa (I) had warned Bengali-speaking Indian Hindus to stay away from pressing the Centre's move, which it has described as 'anti-indigenous'. "Ulfa (I) will not stand by as a mere spectator if anyone tries to thwart the voice of the indigenous people," the outfit had said.

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Assam Governor lauds the efforts of Sagar Parasiri, a person on wheel chair ET Bureau Guwahati, November 15: It is revealed from the Commissioner for Persons with Disabilities, Assam, Guwahati that the Hon’ble Governor of Assam Banwarilal Purohit on 14th of November, 2016 specially invited Sagar Parasiri, a 90% disabled person who is on a 7 day visit to Assam from NewDelhi with a mission to

spread the message of peace among the people to Raj Bhavan and appreciated his efforts inspite of his physical challenges.

It may be stated that Sagar Parasiri who was afflicted with cerebral palsy at the age of twelve, has so far visited twenty-five States and four Countries including United Kingdom and Sri

Lanka and has been delivering lectures on promotion of peace and harmony to students, teachers and other audiences.

Parasiri has also authored three books on Peace, disability and Justice. During his visit to Assam, Parasiri will visit ten educational institutions including differently abled schools and deliver motivational talks.

Chief Minister of Assam, Sarbananda Sonowal addressing a huge public rally at Majuli for his candidate Pradan Baruah for the upcoming Lakhimpur Lok Sabha by-election. He urged the people to support Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to create a prosperous and corruption-free Assam.

Vaishnavite monks of Majuli and farmers in Moruwa villages unfazed with the demonetization ET Bureau/Agencies Guwahati, 15 Nov: Not everyone has been left in the lurch by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's sudden move to render illegal currency notes of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000.

One such group would be the Vaishnavite monks of Majuli who practise an ancient form of cooperative banking that provides them with the bare essentials needed for life inside the satras. The other would be a group of farmers in a cluster of villages at Moruwa in Nalbari district who carry very little cash on them and have functional bank accounts.

The monks of the satras believe in simple living.

They rely mainly on agriculture to meet their food needs and whatever they get as donations from devotees is enough to tide them over.

"The demonetization did not have much impact on the satras. We adhere to a lifestyle that requires only the very basic. The bhakts are mostly farmers. Agricultural output helps us calibrate our food consumption. But we do not know for how long we will be able to continue with this simple lifestyle," said Narayan Dev Goswami, head of the Natun Kamalabari Satra.

The banking system satras follow was set in place by Mathura Das

Businesses forced to go into hiatus in Mirza town ET Bureau/Agencies Guwahati, 15 Nov: With ATMs out of action after Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes were declared invalid on Tuesday, the village dwellers of Kamrup on the outskirts of Guwahati face a severe crisis. The township of Mirza, about 30 km from Guwahati, has seen business come to a virtual standstill.

Located in the historic commercial hub of Palasbari famous for textile, commercial activities have taken a hit over the past five days as weavers have to queue up at banks and ATMs instead of working.

"A down-turn is part of the economic cycle of our business, but the demonetization has resulted in a sudden decline in the textile business.

Neither do we have Rs 100 notes in stock nor do buyers.

We remain on the lookout for customers who have Rs 100 notes but only two or three customers come with lower denomination notes. We are left with no choice but to close our shops early," said Biswajyoti Kalita, a trader at Tarulata Sipini Bhandar.

As many ATMs remained shut on Wednesdar, residents

of the area were left with no options. Banks remained shut as well on account of Guru Nanak Jayanti.

"Even longer queues can be expected at banks on Tuesday," a bank official said.

The people are now feeling the pinch. Homemaker Bharati Das has been unable to find a way to run her home as her husband got only Rs 2,000 notes from the nearby public sector bank few days ago. "The Rs 2,000 currency notes are of no use right now.

Who will give us change for Rs 2000?" Bharati said.

Except grocery shops and a few stores stocking essential commodities, almost every business in the area is witnessing a drastic decline.

According to traders, the situation is likely to deteriorate as very few people from the villages are tech-savvy.

"Use of credit cards could have been an option in this hour of crisis. But very people use credit cards here.

Most of the buyers are not familiar with modern technology. So, card swipe machines will be of absolutely no use here," said Manoj Talukdar, owner of South Kamrup Tyres.

Burha Ata in the Barpeta Satra in the mid-16th century. Das, a disciple of Madhabdev, promoted a cooperative system in which both devotees and monks deposited monies and other items like paddy in a common fund.

In times of crisis, the fund would come to the rescue.

In the years that followed, this banking system became ubiquitous in the monasteries of Majuli.

"The way satras use money depends on certain norms that vary from satra to satra. There are some that follow the banking system propagated by Das. We only believe in getting the bare necessities of life," said Janardhan Dev Goswami,

piece of seleng.

Receiving the award Arun Sharma expressing his feeling said that every man contribute to the society through their activities in different fields. “I have also been trying to contribute towards the society through my best effort being in the field of creativity. It can be said as literary service.

Close attachment of an individual or a society transform into a creative experience sometimes, some of which intensely inspire me which I try to bring into a process of creative work. It becomes a source of my writing and my literature

and through this I have been trying my best to serve my society.” He mentioned.

On the other hand, receiving the award, Snehalata Das said that she was overwhelmed by the honour given to her by the cultural organization “Chatak”. “It is an honour shown to me rather an honour given to Kamrupia luka geet.” She said adding the songs having an inter-connection with soil and air of a region and its people remain everlasting. In kamrupia lukageet, picture of the social life of the Assamese society is depict, like in the songs of cultural icons Rupkwonor

Cash crisis: Bengal tea workers want state to follow Assam's example

ET Bureau 15 Nov: Two days satradhikar of Uttar Siliguri, after the Assam government Kamalabari Satra. started distributing fortnightly salaries in cash to Meanwhile, the farmers five lakh tea gardens emof Moruwa, far removed ployees, tea workers in from the men of Majuli, northern districts of West have also been left unaf- Bengal is yet to be taken fected by demonetization. care of.

Even with the harvest season just around the cor- Located in far flung areas, ner, they don't seem wor- underserved by the banking sector, tea industry pays ried.

"I spoke to some farmers. wages fortnightly in cash.

They told me that the cash While payments were due they carry is very less. in the second week, sudden They only use it for the restriction on cash withrequired purchases. Their drawals stopped companies family members have from giving salaries. bank accounts. Nowadays, the farmers them- To safeguard workers’ interand avoid unrest, the selves have bank ac- est Assam government asked counts," said Himanta plantations to transfer reqBaishya, secretary of Lo- uisite money to its disaster tus Progressive Centre, an management department, NGO that works with ru- which under special arral farmers in Nalbari. rangements with the RBI

Weary bank officials in Guwahati welcome momentary relief ET Bureau/Agencies Guwahati, 15 Nov: Monday was a much-needed break for tired bank officials after a stressful few days. On the other hand, with banks being closed on account of Guru Nanak's birth anniversary, people continued to queue up in front of ATMs on Monday.

day), I could relax a bit. I hope this crisis gets over soon," he said. For the past few days, Gogoi would reach home at around 11pm.

Only half of the ATMs in the city were operational during the day. But Tonmoy Gogoi was not complaining. Gogoi, an employee of the Tinsukia branch of HDFC bank, said that the last few days had been 'terrible' for him and his colleagues.

"Even in comparatively smaller branches like ours, both the officials and the public suffered. We had a very tough time in receiving cash and delivering new notes at the same time. We hardly got 10 minutes for lunch in the past four days. This break was much-needed," said a weary Ali.

"Since early in the morning to late in the evening, we had to deal with long queues in front of the counters. Today (Mon-

Noted Playwright-Novelist Arun Sharma and renowned Kamrupia folk song artist Snehalata Das conferred “Chatak-2016” award Shambhu Boro Tezpur, Nov 15: The frontline Cultural Organization ‘Chatak” conferred the “Chatak-2016” award to Noted Playwright-Novelist Arun Sharma and renown Kamrupia lukageet artist Snehalata Das in a befitting occasion at historic Ban Theatre here today. On behalf of the Cultural platform noted researcher, Prof. Sunil Dutta, Department of Cultural studies, Tezpur University presented the late Ram Prashad BhuyanPhuleswari Bhuyan memorial “Chatak” award to the duo artists. The award carries case money citation, ‘Chatak” memento and a

LAKHIMPUR BYPOLL CAMPAIGN

Jyoptiprashad Agarwala, Kolaguru Bishnu Prashad Rabha and Natasurya Phani Sharma.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Sunil Dutta appreciated the organizers for their noble endeavor to provide adequate honour to an artist who selflessly works for building a balanced society through their cultural effort.

In the programme a story book “Nimantran Pratakhyan” was also released. The event conducted by president of ‘Chatak” Anil Bhatta and Central Executive of Asom Sahitya Sabha, Pamkaj Baruah was graced by a host of dignitaries.

Muzahid Ali, who is employed with the State Bank of India's Gaurisagar branch in Sivasagar district, echoed Gogoi.

Officials posted in bank branches in the city also welcomed the day's

break on Monday.

"This situation might continue for several days. Surprisingly, the rush has only increased since the announcement was made, instead of decreasing. Now, we can only hope that it gets over soon," said Swapan Sinha, an official of Canara Bank's Chandmari branch.

Meanwhile, people continued to stand for hours in front of ATMs to draw Rs 2,000 per card.

Though Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday night revised the maximum amount that could be withdrawn from an ATM, people could still withdraw only Rs 2,000 instead of the promised Rs 2,500.

dispensed cash to plantation workers. As on Tuesday, salaries of major gardens are paid.

Taking a cue from the Assam example, Indian Tea Association requested intervention of West Bengal government on Saturday.

West Bengal contributes nearly a quarter of country’s tea output. Sixty per cent of the total comes from large estates having over 2.5 lakh people on pay-roll.

At a hurriedly called meeting in Siliguri, the State officials verbally promised to implement the plan. On Sunday, meetings were held at district levels and tea producers were asked to submit requisitions.

While producers duly submitted the requisitions on Monday, the State govern-

ment is yet to handover the bank details for money transfer.

“We are eagerly waiting for further instructions from the West Bengal government to give effect to the plan,” a tea official told BusinessLine on condition of anonymity.

Meanwhile, cash shortage is acute in the tea region of Bengal as most of the banks including State Bank and United Bank (that has maximum penetration in the State) in Banarhat, Binnaguri, Birpara, Nagrakata areas of the tea heartland have gone dry.

According to tea officials, almost all ATMs are closed.

And, a few branches as the State Bank in Binnaguri is dispensing cash, witnessing a kilometre long queue.

(With inputs from agencies)

Children’s day celebrated at Nabaprabhat orphanage in Tezpur ET Correspondent, Tezpur, Nov 15: Several organizations alongwith the Nabaprabhat Orphanage located at Ketekibari here celebrated the Children’s day on Monday.

Hemanta Baruah in his speech spoke on the importance of the day and urged the trust that has been running the orphanage to motivate the sheltered children to live their life with the ideology of personalTo mark the day the ity like Jawaharlal o r p h a n a g e o r g a - Nehru. nized art and quiz competitions among the chilThe children were dren.

B e s i d e s awarded after the other personalities, declaration of the president of Tezpur competitions held Sahitya S a b h a , among them. DifferH e m a n t a B a r u a h ent performances inand Vice President cluding presentation o f t h e o r p h a n a g e of songs and dances Pankaj B a r u a h by the children mesg r a c e d t h e o c c a - merized one and all sion. present in the event.

Assam Pavilion inaugurated at IITF, 2016 PTI Guwahati, 15 Nov: The Assam Pavilion was inaugurated at the IndiaInternational Trade Fair (IITF), 2016 in New Delhi by Additional Chief Secretary (Industries and Commerce Department) Ravi Capoor yesterday.

The pavilion with the theme and logo of 'Digital Assam' was showcasing various e-initiatives like Ease of Doing Business, NRC up-dation, edistrict, Community Service Centres, Land Records, e-procurement and Call Analysis and

Tracking System, an official release said here today.

This year, 13 government departments/ agencies,

44 MSME units and four handmade organic tea producers have participated in the Assam Pavilion.

'Assam Day' will be celebrated on November 22 at Pragati Maidan's Lal Chowk Theatre, the release added.

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16

NORTHEAST

Demonetisation of currency : agony and estasy of black holders Agartala, Nov 15 : Tripura is widely known to be a tiny state with more than 67% of its people officially living below poverty line . But the cash deposits in banks across the state following the November 8 note ban negate the estimate and brings into sharp relief the huge money stashed in safe places within homes or convenient spots , away from the glare of feared income tax department and enforcement directorate (ED). According to information provided by banking sources who refused to be identified, on November 12 alone the 'Bazar Branch' of the state bank of India (SBI) close to the Maharajganj market had a net deposit of Rs 5 crores within a single day while the UBI branch at remote

Kanchanpur subdivisional town had a deposit of Rs 1.5 crore within the span of the same day. More bizarre is the reality of the Tripura Gramin Bank (TGB) branch at backward Aralia area , northeast of Agartala across the river Hawarah.

Altogether Rs 57 lakhs was deposited yesterday in that branch for exchange of banned notes. The Aralia area is mostly peopled by depressed classes and BPL sections.

While bankers insist on confidentiality and preparedness to disclose information about deposits later on at a convenient time , reports emanating from the business community indicate intriguing developments. But the most endan-

gered communities have turned to be narcotics smugglers, land sharks and blockhead businessmen who stashed their illegitimate money within homes and supposedly in 'safe spots' for tax and penalty evasion. A big wholesaler in perishable goods in the Maharajganj market is reported to have stashed Rs 230 crores even as many of his collegues hold illegal stocks ranging from Rs 100250 crores. Not only Maharajganj market or other big markets, the posh Shantipara area of Agartala , inhabited by most of the Hawala traders, gold stockists and money lenders , have been groaning in agony ever since the proclamation of note-ban. They did not even have time

enough to convert their illegal money into other untaxed or low-taxed wealths.

Highly placed sources privy to goings on in the black market said that a narcotics smuggler in Belonia sitting on the tinder box of Rs 5 crores earned from his illegal smuggling euphemistically called business has been spending sleepless nights, moving from door to door in the houses of relative for depositing his stock with banks under their names. In order to perform a penance , a big black money stockist in a local market, is bearing the cost of 'Mahaprasad' upon conclusion of ritual 'Kirtan'. 'He can not deposit his stock with banks or post offices because the tax and penalty will outstrip his money and

NPF coalition will return to power in 2018: Patton

delve further into his legal and legitimate money' said an authentic source. There are of course few people including politicians sitting pretty as they had the foresight to show inflated incomes and pay higher taxes to make their black money white.

Meanwhile, the banks operating across the state have continued paying money to customers though at lesser rates than necessary. The branch of union bank of India (UBI) at Bardowali which paid at the rate of Rs 10 thousand per customer yesterday has not been able to start paying today owing to lack of cash. But other banks have kept up the outflow of payment. A number of market

Himanta calls for regime change in Tripura Agartala, Nov 15: Tripura should go for a regime change to turnaround 'misfortune' of the people of the Marxist ruled state, felt Assam Higher Education Minister Himata Biswa Sarma.

Tripura is having 68 percent BPL population which is a shame for those who has been ruling the state for long years, he said while addressing a press conference here on Sunday.

"During the Marxist regime, Tripura turns into a MGNREGA economy with no industry coming up. The number of unemployed youth has already touched to 4 lakh of 34 lakh population", he said.

Patton and Vikheho along with others at the Thuwu-ni festival celebration in Pughoboto Dimapur, Nov 15: State home minister Y. Patton expressed confidence that NPF-led DAN coalition would return to power in 2018 provided assembly elections are held as per schedule.

Patton also admitted some "hiccups" in the DAN alliance but said: "No matter what people in the street talk about", this government will compete its full term".

The minister, who graced the inaugural function of the three-day, Thuwu-ni festival at Pughoboto on Monday also highlighted on the various initiatives by the government to uplift the

Fake coin rumour in city, banks allay fears Shillong, Nov 15: At a time when the Centre is trying to curb fake currency notes, people in the city are facing a new crisis.

Shopkeepers here are refusing to accept Rs 10 coins following a rumour that is doing the rounds for the last few days that these coins are counterfeit.

This has created trouble for many residents who are using the coins in absence of lower denomination currency notes.

This correspondent visited several shops with a Rs 10 coin but most of the sceptical owners of these shops, including Delhi Mistan Bhandar in Police Bazar, refused to accept it after examining it for a moment.

The shop owners informed that they are accepting those Rs 10 coins where the inscription crosses the silver circle and which have 10 smaller inscriptions. A fake coin has 15 such inscriptions.

However, a senior SBI official said it was only a rumour and people should not believe it.

"If somebody makes a fake coin, his costing price will be more than its value as it has a lot of metal and silver," the official said.

The official also said earlier, there was a shortage of Rs 10 coin but now it is available in huge numbers and this has led people to conclude that there are fake coins in the market.

(Agencies)

economic condition of the villagers.

On the occasion, Patton also announced that R&B minster, Y. Vikheho Swu would be the official NPF candidate of Pughoboto A/ C and appealed the people to support him.

He also urged the people to extend unflinching support to the present government so that various ongoing development works/schemes that are on the pipelines, would be implemented without any hindrance.

On Naga political issue, Patton reiterated that it was

the ardent desire of the Naga people that the political issue should come to a logical conclusion. He lauded the Sumi community for producing great leaders like late Isak Chishi Swu, whose leadership has been admired both by friends and foes.

Further, Patton while extending Ahuna greetings to the Sumi community wished that progress and harmony would prevail within the community.

He further said that the festival (Thuwu-ni) hosted by Y. Vikheho Swu should be appreciated since it was a new initiative with an aim to bring positive changes.

He also called for preservation and promotion of Naga culture and traditions.

Patton also asserted that the citizens of Pughoboto area were fortunate enough of being near to state capital, and for which they have the advantage to enhance the village economy. This, he encouraged the youngsters to take the advantage of the festival. Earlier, Patton also inaugurated 24 stalls set up by 24 villages under Pughoboto sub-division. The festival was marked by indigenous games competition and various activities. (Agencies)

Traders, residents benefit from railway Shillong, Nov 15: At a time when the Byrnihat-Shillong railway project is facing opposition due to the fear of influx, the people from Garo Hills who travel by train from Mendipathar to Guwahati have no such apprehensions.

The KSU has already stopped the survey and investigation for the proposed 108-km Byrnihat-Shillong railway project and the KHADC is yet to issue NOC stating that the entry and the exit points should be set up first to check influx.

Moreover, some portions of land are yet to be acquired for Tetelia-Byrnihat railway project though a major portion of the land is in the possession of Northeast Frontier Railway.

But a visit to Mendipathar railway station in North Garo Hills last Tuesday on the occasion of the second anniversary of the arrival of trains to the State revealed a contrasting picture.

The railway staff and the commuters at Mendipathar - the rail head here was inaugurated

by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on November 29, 2014 said it has helped the people of the area in many ways.

Local farmers and vendors carry vegetables and other items from Garo Hills to

Guwahati paying only Rs 30 as fare. They return to Mendipathar in the evening after selling their produces in Guwahati markets.

Besides, a portion of the platform is used by local vendors who sell vegetables and tea since 6 am.

Take the case of Stance Sangma and Lechna Marak. They buy vegetables from the vendors at the railway station, take the train to Guwahati and sell the same at a higher price there.

They get a marginal profit for the vegetables.

Many people who have work in Guwahati also use the same mode of transport.

Former deputy chief minister Timothy D. Shira, who regularly travels by the Mendipathar train, said this has benefitted the people a lot.

"Unlike travelling in buses and other means of transport, which are tiring, the train provides us a comfortable journey at a cheaper fare," Shira said and added that a person has to spend at least Rs 120 to reach Guwahati if he uses other means of transport.

The train ranging from ten to twelve coaches with 72 seats each leaves Mendipathar at 7 am daily and reaches Guwahati at 11 am and the same train leaves Guwahati at 4.20 pm on

the same day to reaches Mendipathar at 8.30 pm covering 130 km.

The train, which has 20 stops, halts for more than 30 minutes at Dudhnoi for changing engine and also to facilitate crossing of other trains.

The number of rail passengers who travel on this route is below 100, but the railway employees say if there is a direct train to Delhi, the flow of passengers will increase.

There is a plan to extend the railway service to Tura, which will also increase the flow of passengers.

Prakash Kumar, who is in charge of Mendipathar railway station, said there was no law and order problems in running the train despite the insurgency in Garo Hills. Moreover, there was not a single case of accidents on the route in the last two years.

Both Kumar and North Garo Hills DC SC Sadhu agree that there were no instances of influx after the train was made operational.

When asked about the problem of influx, the passengers who were in the train said more people from outside are coming to Garo Hills through other means of transport. (Agencies)

committees have been taking banned notes to keep transactions going with the hope that during the remainder of the relief period they will be able to deposit the amounts with banks.

There is however complete peace but palpable disappointment among those standing in the queue but this is laced with the cryptic comment : " there is inconvenience but we have to stand in queues for many other things also ; the step against black money is a really good and a daring move". Naturally, a second rung Congress leader, tempted to create trouble in the UBI branch at Bardowali , finally backed out for fear of antagonising people.

(Agencies)

Sarma, who was on a whirlwind poll campaign, alleged almost all opposition parties are having understanding among them.

"While Congress plays to the tune of Chief Minister Manik Sarkar as I had seen in the last Assembly elections, Mamata Banerjee is all set to link with CPM. It is all about match fixing among opposition parties", he alleged.

Asserting that only BJP could bring a change for the betterment of the state,

Sarma said it is going to become a strong opposition in real sense before 2018 Assembly elections.

Referring to the Marxist government's deprivation towards to the state government employees here, he said BJP government has completed only few months in Assam. "We have already declared 125 percent DA to the state government employees despite huge financial burden. If BJP led government could give such amount of DA why is deprivation towards the employees in Tripura", he asked.

Asserting that BJP wants to expand its geographical base in the Northeast, Sarma said the party looks set to form next government in Manipur which is scheduled to Assembly elections within next three months.

"As of now we are not considering to forge alliance with any regional parties as it will hamper the normal growth of BJP in Tripura", he said.

Sarma summed up with alleging that Congress is having link with CPI (M) stumbling block to much needed change in Tripura.

(Agencies)

P5 Agartala press club to celebrate national press day on Nov 16 Agartala, Nov 15: Agartala Press Club in association with Information and Cultural Affairs (ICA) department of Tripura government will organize a discussion to mark the 'National Press Day' on November 16 next.

Agartala press club through a press communiquĂŠ said that during the discussion , renowned speaker like veteran journalist Sekhar Datta and vice-chancellor of MBB University Gautam Basu will deliver their speeches on the subject title "reporting from conflict area, a challenge to media'.

Agartala Municipal Corpo-

ration (AMC) Mayor Dr Prafullajit Sinha will remain in the meeting as special guest. Veteran journalist and president of Agartala press club Satyabrata Chakraborty along with other senior journalist of the state will also remain present during the discussion meeting.

The communiquĂŠ added that this year during the celebration of national press day, the Agartala press club will felicitate veteran journalist and editor of Bengali daily 'Syandan Patrika', Subal Kumar Dey and veteran journalist cum editor of 'Tripura Samay' news paper, Subrata Deb. (Agencies)

IPFT to demonstrate at Jantar Mantar on November 29 Agartala, Nov 15: The Indigenous Peoples Front of Twipra will organize a 100hour sit in demonstration at Jantar Mantar in Delhi on November 29 in support of their demand for creation of a separate state comprising the areas of the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council.

Narendra Chandra Debbarma, president of the IPFT said they have booked two compartments of the Tripureswari Express that will leave Agartala on No-

vember 24 and to reach at Delhi on November 27. Over four hundred party workers are expected to join the demonstration, he said.

In response to a question he said the convener of the North-East Democratic Alliance and finance minister of Assam Himanta Biswa Sharma neither contacted them during his visit to Tripura on Monday nor extended any invitation to join NEDA, So, he refused to make any comment about it.

(Agencies)

Himanta avoided IPFT, INPT, said own organization is our priority Agartala, Nov 15: The finance minister of Assam Himanta Biswa Sharma declined the speculation that he is keen to rope in the tribal based regional parties of Tripura into the NorthEast Democratic Alliance, an outfit floated by BJP and instead said increasing the own organization in the state is the priority for his party at the moment.

Mr Biswa Sharma who is the convenor of the NEDA made a brief visit to Tripura, addressed a public meeting in support of his party candidate Sishta Mohon Das for the by-election of the Barjala assembly constituency but avoided meeting

any of the regional parties as speculated earlier.

Addressing a press conference he said BJP is getting huge and spontaneous response from the people of Tripura and our party workers are also very much encouraged. So, at this moment our priority is to build our own organisation.

Mr Biswa Sharma who was accompanied by the BJP national secretary Ram Madhab and in-charge for northeast Ajoy Jawamal elaborating their organisational plan said our target is to form all the booth level committees by next two months and formation of all frontal organizations.

(Agencies)

DAN most corrupt govt: NPCC Kohima, Nov 15: Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) has demanded that the beleaguered chief minister T.R. Zeliang "resign from office or the Governor should step in to dismiss the government without further delay", in the light of the Governor's attack on his own government and the NPF ally BJP's candid admission of DAN being corrupt.

This was contained in a statement issued by NPCC working president Ayang Aonok who had attacked the DAN government under T.R. Zeliang on various corruption issues and the series of ultimatum served on the government over corruption and mismanagement by various organisations.

NPCC cited the anguish expressed by the Governor of Nagaland at a press conference in Kohima on November 10 over the manner in which funds were siphoned off and appealing to people to catch those siphoning money.

It said such a candid manner in which a Governor expressed anguish in the media was "unprecedented" and spoke volumes of the morass that the state had landed in. Buttressing the Governor's remarks, NPCC said NPF's ally, the BJP had "boldly gone on record" to call DAN government as "corrupt" which showed that it had crossed all limits while people suffered in misery.

The NPCC said no government in history has been mired in so

much corruption as the present DAN regime and which were pointers to the fact that Nagaland was headed towards a "despotic and kleptocratic regime".

NPCC hit out at NPF-led DAN for "lapses, blunders and corrupt practices" where voices of dissent were trampled upon by a dictatorial tendency due to "solid majority" that led to curtailing of assembly session to hardly an hour and debarring MLAs from raising questions in the house.

NPCC cited various issues such as the deteriorating financial health and the "can of worms" tumbling out of the DAN government despite its avowed closeness with the NDA government at the Centre.

NPCC said despite the present DAN government having a record contingent of Advisors in the state's history; yet it has been afflicted with policy paralysis and mishandling of almost every issue which has led to "total collapse of governance".

Further, NPCC slammed the NPF-led DAN government for its treatment of employees with disdain where salaries have been withheld in many departments while backdoor appointments continue unabated and for which government servants were blamed for consuming a major chunk of the budget.

In particular, NPCC said teachers were being extolled but in

reality, they were made to work as bonded labour without salaries for months; exemplified by throttling their legitimate demands for salary with use of water cannons.

NPCC said the DAN erred in joining the GST regime of one nation and one tax whereas Jammu and Kashmir has been exempted from the purview.

However, it said that without proper consideration and despite Article 371A, the Nagaland legislative assembly ratified GST "in a hurry ostensibly to please the centre."

It also hit out chief minister T.R .Zeliang for his U-turn over the issue of calling for election to urban bodies despite his role as chairman of the assembly select committee in 2012 .

NPCC said Zeliang had tabled the resolution to reject applicability of Part IXA of the constitution he opined that it contravened provisions of Article 371A. NPCC also said Zeliang also recommend passing of a resolution to frame own laws for conduct of urban and town council polls.

However, NPCC said T.R. Zeliang "changes his stance at his whims and fancies" on crucial issues and therefore, urged the CM's advisors to "bring him to sense and convince him to make an unequivocal statement on this crucial and sensitive issue".

Taking a dig at T.R. Zeliang's controversial educational qualification issue which is under litigation, NPCC pointed out

the recent Supreme Court judgment, whereby it ruled that a candidate's election be set aside for making false declaration on education qualification in the nomination papers. It said on the issue of educational qualification, chief minister T.R. Zeliang was "hiding behind legal nicety and refuses to speak the truth, unlike N. Rio, who had openly clarified through the print media."

NPCC said the issue before T.R. Zeliang is merely to admit where he passed or failed in the BA examination, before people and nothing more or nothing less.

Taking a jibe NPCC said it was "hilarious and downright unethical of a person holding the position of chief minister to let his qualification known to the people through a cumbersome legal process."

NPCC also referred to disclosures that have been made through RTI applications which had led to skeletons tumbling from all key departments. NPCC pointed out the petroleum adulteration issue as a case which it said, could have been handled with sincerity and sensitivity. Instead, NPCC said the DAN unleashed police force to contain protestors, proving that "power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely" and added that "insensitivity and callousness is the hallmark of the DAN government headed by TR Zeliang". (Agencies)

EDITORIAL

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16

Today's quote

“

“You yourself as much as anybody in the entire universe deserve your love and affection.” –

Mahatma Gandhi

Demonetisation and after The long, anxious, and frustrating wait by people outside banks and ATMs across the country over the last five days is an inevitable consequence of the decision to demonetise notes of Rs.500 and Rs.1,000. When 86 per cent of the value of notes in circulation turns suddenly invalid, as it did with Prime Minister Modi’s ‘surgical strike’ last week, a certain degree of disruption and pain is unavoidable. But the question is whether this chaos could have been anticipated and managed better than it has been. Replacement of the demonetised notes is a time-consuming exercise that requires planning of the highest order. The experience of the last few days shows that preparation was lacking and the transition could have been handled much better. ATMs are running out of cash quickly while banks are dispensing more of the Rs.2,000 notes than those of lower denominations. What use is a high-value note if there is not enough smaller currency to make an exchange? Of course, it was never an easy task for the Reserve Bank of India and the Centre to strike the right balance between secrecy and storing adequate quantity of notes for quick distribution. All the same, there are at least a couple of issues that could have been addressed differently.

The new Rs.500 notes that hit the market on Monday could have been released immediately after the announcement last week. Putting out new Rs.500 notes along the Rs.2,000 notes would have placed much less strain on those of the Rs.100 denomination, which are anyway in short supply. Second, it appears that officials woke up a little late to the issue of recalibrating ATMs. At least a day, if not more, was lost as banks realised the ATMs would not be able to dispense the new notes. The communication with the public, who were in a state of panic, could have been better, too. Thankfully, the Centre has woken up to ease the pressure on the system by increasing withdrawal limits, allowing for petroleum outlets and hospitals to accept the old series of notes until November 24 and pushing more cash through post offices. The worst-affected are people in rural areas and villages where cash is king and the banking system’s penetration is poor. The decision to relax cash-holding limits for banking correspondents, the crucial link between banks and villages, to Rs.50,000 and allowing them to replenish multiple times a day should help in faster distribution. This ought to have been done much earlier. The cash crunch of the last few days is certain to have an adverse impact on consumption spending, especially in the rural areas, with the resultant effect on the economy in the third quarter.

Hope floats in Colombia The fresh peace deal announced by Bogota and the rebels of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) may look no less fragile than the previous accord that Colombians rejected in a referendum in October. But signs that the gathering economic momentum depends on lasting reconciliation could trump other outstanding concerns. The current endeavour to secure peace has been four years and more in the making. It involved political heavyweights in Latin America and beyond, whose influence should make a reversal of recent gains especially difficult. The Nobel Peace Prize, awarded days after the referendum reversal, has enhanced the stature of President Juan Manuel Santos as a relentless crusader for peace in the midst of formidable if not insurmountable hurdles. But it is not inconceivable that having had the earlier accord rejected in a vote, the risks of a repeat referendum, or alternatively the moral and political deficit likely to arise from dispensing with one in this instance, will cast a shadow over the current effort. Foremost is the question whether the leaders of the FARC should be allowed to participate in the political process.

President Santos has defended the retention of the provision in the revised deal, arguing that the promise of a legitimate route to politics for rebel groups has been the hallmark of any peace process the world over. Those opposed to the deal contend that according political eligibility to criminals who have not been brought to justice amounts to a violation of the rule of law.

In fact, the popular perception that the government was seeking to reward top FARC leaders with public office had decisively tilted voter sentiment against the deal in the October vote. The mere provision to obtain an inventory of the assets of rebels, with a view to compensate victims, or to elicit disclosures on the drug mafia, may not be enough to placate the people. Former President Alvaro Uribe, who spearheaded the No campaign, has yet to pronounce on the new agreement.

But Mr. Santos and Mr. Uribe, erstwhile allies, must be acutely sensitive to the economic implications of continued political instability, in their search for a reasonable compromise. The commodities downturn has hit Colombia’s economy hard, and the government has already scaled down expectations of a boost to the tourism and agriculture sectors from the peace accord. Yet, the President’s proactive engagement with the international community to attract investment, and Washington’s backing for the peace accord, hold out the promise of a return to prosperity. A peace deal would help win over investors.

P6

The trail Trump’s blazing The Trump phenomenon will play out in Austrian, Dutch, French and German elections soon, and the prospects of uncertainty are only going to grow.

Fifteen years ago, on the eleventh day of the ninth month in 2001, the U.S. mainland was attacked and a stunned world watched as history took a new turn. The two numbers came together, this time on the ninth day of the eleventh month in 2016 and once again, the world watched spellbound as Donald Trump was declared the President-elect of the U.S., wondering how it would change American engagement with the rest of the world. Clearly, there is something about the combination of 9 and 11 and the 21st century in the U.S. that needs to be investigated by the numerologists!

Both events were a shock; in 2001, the aircraft slamming into the World Trade Centre were a bolt from the blue; and in 2016, while it is true that Mr. Trump was the Republican nominee, in terms of probability, his chances of winning had receded dramatically after the Access Hollywood tapes emerged in early October, even though these referred to a conversation in 2005, which he tried to play down as “locker room banter”.

Mainstream media endorsements were strongly in favour of Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton; in print media, the ratio was running at 57 to 1! In terms of TV advertisements at a national level, she enjoyed a definitive edge — the Clinton campaign numbered 3,21,748 spots while the Trump team was reduced to 99,141. U.S. elections are often funding driven, and here too, the Clinton election fund contributions were in excess of $680 million compared to a war chest of $307 million for the Trump campaign. Given these odds, it is not surprising that the U.S. think tanks,

media and polling pundits gave a Clinton victory a high probability of over 80 per cent. Therefore, the Trump victory is no less of a shock than the 9/11 fifteen years ago.

correctness. He fractured the Republican Party whose nomination he had secured in a bruising primary.

Nothing mattered because he was convinced that he had tapped into a deep vein of resentment running through A brutal campaign U.S. society that would propel him to the White House.

As election campaigns go, In fact, he could not have this was the most brutal and changed his campaign style polarising campaign ever and kept his loyalists with seen in the U.S. Marred by him. He was an unlikely canscandals and name-calling, didate for the middle-aged, coloured by worried, white invective and American character asmale, scared Rakesh Sood sassination, of and unpretarnished by pared for the corruption, sex, lies and future. videotape(s), this election has Mr. Trump symbolises the shaken the faith of the people moneyed elite, an inheritor of in the American electoral family wealth (his father was process. It surpassed the estimated to be worth more spectacle of the 2000 election than $200 million in the which had thrown up ludi- 1950s), a real estate mogul crous images of poll enu- who schmoozed with the merators looking at hanging bold and the beautiful, the chads in ballot papers in owner of the Miss Universe Florida to discern voters’ in- pageant (1996-2015), a realtentions, till the Supreme ity TV star, thrice married, Court stopped the manual living in a three-storey pentrecount, took back the house apartment on the Fifth Florida electoral votes from Avenue in Manhattan, partyAl Gore and confirmed ing and jetting to his various George W. Bush as the 43rd palaces and casinos. How did President of the U.S. Then this group adopt someone too, Mr. Gore had received a like Mr. Trump as their rephigher percentage in terms of resentative? popular votes, just as this time Ms. Clinton is around a Divided States of percentage point ahead of America Mr. Trump.

This year’s was a camMr. Trump’s skill was to paign that demolished the overcome his background idea of the innately decent and invoke a mix of populism and wise aam aadmi, at least and majoritarian nationalism. in the aggregate. The irony is It did not matter if he that even though during the sounded sexist, xenophobic campaign Mr. Trump came or even hateful. He was across as arrogant and vain, guessing (and rightly, as it used offensive language for turns out) that this would women, the disabled, His- serve to energise and cement panics and Muslims, and was his support base. Mr. Trump unable to present coherent is not the first politician to policy programmes in his take recourse to populism. speeches or in the presidenIn his fight for the Demotial debates, he felt little need cratic nomination, Senator to apologise for his gaffes, Bernie Sanders also took rerevelling in his political in- course to populism, of a dif-

ferent kind. He too wanted to restore American democracy but by increasing welfare through progressive economic tax reform that would impact the rich. It was a populism that had a strand of liberalism woven into it.

Mr. Trump replaced the ‘liberal’ strand with a narrowly defined ‘nationalism’, which appealed to his support base that was scared; scared of immigrants, of globalisation, of new technologies; scared that in their old age, their life would be less certain than it had been for their parents. Mr. Trump’s support base had been Bill Clinton’s support base (remember –‘it’s the economy, stupid’) but Ms. Clinton could no longer claim that as hers, and in the final analysis, she remained unable to inspire and energise the African-Americans, Hispanics, women and the immigrant communities that would have helped her break the glass ceiling.

Today, the U.S. is a society in turmoil. A look at the electoral map shows the extent of the divide. Barring a handful of exceptions like Illinois and New Mexico, it is the States on both the east and west coasts that have voted staunchly for Ms. Clinton. California, at $2.46 trillion, is the sixth-largest economy in the world, having overtaken France. On the east coast, New York State boasts of the 12th largest global economy at $1.44 trillion (and third among the States within the U.S., after California and Texas). Add to it the other half a dozen States on the two coasts like New Jersey, Massachusetts, Virginia, Maryland, Washington and Oregon, and it is clear that these coastal economies account for nearly half of America’s $18-trillion GDP. These States play host to large immigrant populations,

support globalisation, invest in R&D and are in the forefront of cutting-edge technological developments.

Waiting to happen While every election is local, the Trump phenomenon reflects a trend which is straining the Western, liberal, international order that emerged after World War II, supported by the U.S. Since then, political trends in Western democracies have reflected certain convergences.

For the first quarter century, the focus was on economic growth, creation of international institutions, expansion of social security and welfare systems, prevention of conflict in Europe and finally, a convergence around the political middle.

The oil price hike and the inflationary trends in the 1970s led to a rightward shift in western politics. President Ronald Reagan (Republican) in the U.S. and Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher (Conservative) in the U.K. reflected this shift. In Germany, Chancellor Helmut Kohl (Christian Democratic Union) was in office for an unprecedented 16-year term, from 1982 to 1998.

The successful unification of Germany contributed to his long innings. The French enjoy being different and though President Francois Mitterrand (Socialist) was bucking the trend from 1981 to 1995, from the mid-1980s, France enjoyed cohabitation with a Right-of-Centre Prime Minister in Jacques Chirac who eventually succeeded Mitterrand as President.

The 1990s saw the growth of the new Left. In the U.S., President Clinton (Democrat) came to power in 1992 and Tony Blair (Labour) was PM in the U.K. from 1997 to 2007. Both shifted the politics and the economics to the

Right-of-Centre. In Germany, Gerhard Schroeder (Social Democratic Party) replaced Mr. Kohl. France remained the odd man out with President Chirac continuing till 2007 and it is only in 2012 that a Socialist President Francois Hollande regained the Elysee. By this time, the art of finding the political middle had started coming under strain, in the West.

Post the Iraq invasion and the 2008 financial crisis that gripped first the U.S. with the sub-prime mortgages and then the Eurozone, there has been a persistent questioning of existing political structures and governance systems. Four phenomena have added to the uncertainties.

Ageing of populations in a number of Western countries, rising immigration being seen as a threat, growing inequality particularly in the Anglo-Saxon world as vividly brought out by French economist Thomas Piketty, and finally, a diffusion of authority under the twin onslaughts of globalisation and the technologies spawned by the Internet.

Like Brexit, the Trump phenomenon is a sign that the centre of gravity of political discourse is shifting away from the predictable and orderly towards fragmentation and disorder. Within the U.S., the Trump voter is part of the shrinking share of the population but because it sees itself as threatened, it is ready to come out, vote and assert itself.

The Trump phenomenon will play out in Austrian, Dutch, French and German elections soon and the prospects of uncertainty are only going to grow in the years to come as politicians in democracies (and elsewhere) increasingly take recourse to the rising tides of nationalism.

The breakthrough with Japan Abe, an admirer of India, has been a strong advocate of New Delhi-Tokyo strategic ties Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Japan packed quite a punch: from supporting India’s membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and rationalising the MumbaiAhmedabad bullet train timeline to the easing of Indian student visas, training of 30,000 Indians in Japanesestyle manufacturing practices, and merging of India’s “Act East Policy” with Japan’s “Free and Open IndoPacific Strategy”. Even as Japanese business leaders and investors sought more “free and open” investment climate and relaxation of land acquisition policies, Mr. Modi called for greater participation and engagement of Japanese industries in India, saying it would benefit Japan and India’s MSME (micro, small and medium enterprises) sector. In the context of The Hague tribunal’s ruling on Chinese activity in the South China Sea, India and Japan also reiterated their commitment to respect freedom of navigation and overflight, and unimpeded lawful commerce,

based on the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. The nuclear deal But the signing of the civil nuclear deal was the biggest item on the agenda. With this, Japan is making an exception to its rule of not conducting nuclear commerce with any state that is not a signatory to the Nuclear Non-ProlifHarsh e r a t i o n T r e a t y (NPT). Though this pact has been the subject of intense negotiations between the two countries for the last six years, Mr. Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s personal ties managed to give it new momentum. Against the backdrop of China’s reluctance to support India’s candidacy for the membership of the NSG, the import of IndoJapanese nuclear cooperation assumes great salience.

years and froze all political exchanges. The former included halting aid for new projects, suspension of yen loans and imposition of strict control over technology transfers. Tokyo called on the G8 countries to condemn the Indian and Pakistani nuclear tests.

The U.S.India civilian V. Pant nuclear energy cooperation pact ratified during the Bush administration ought to have assuaged many of Japan’s concerns. The deal effectively legitimised India’s nuclear programme and created formal channels for nuclear technology and materials intended solely for civilian use. Yet although Japan nominally supported the deal, it persisted in predicating any bilateral civilian nuclear cooperation on India signing the NPT and the Comprehensive This is a remarkable turn- Test Ban Treaty. around in many ways. After Ending the impasse India tested nuclear weapons in 1998, Japan suspended The impasse had created a economic assistance for three

problem for Japanese business and for India. Current Japanese law allows nuclear exports only to states that are either party to the NPT or allow the International Atomic Energy Agency to safeguard all their nuclear facilities. As a result, Japanese companies with expertise in civilian nuclear technologies are barred from doing business in India, perhaps the reason why Japan's Ministry of Economics, Trade and Industry has long supported the deal. It also deprives Indians of the opportunity to buy high-quality civilian technology.

With the nuclear pact, bilateral defence ties will also get a boost with New Delhi’s decision to buy 12 US-2i amphibious aircrafts from ShinMaywa Industries in one of Tokyo’s first arms deals since Japan’s 2014 decision to lift its 50-year ban on arms exports. India had proposed assembling 10 of the planes in India as part of its ‘Make in India’ initiative and both sides had agreed on transfer of military technology. Tokyo

tide.

The man was stuck by the the apparent futility of the task. There were far too many starfish. Many of them were sure to perish.

As he approached, the person continued the task of picking up starfish one by one and throwing them into the surf.

The relationship between India and Japan is perhaps the best it has ever been, largely because both countries have Prime Ministers who view the region and the world in very similar terms. Abe, a longstanding admirer of India, has been a strong advocate of strategic ties between New Delhi and Tokyo. He was one of the first Asian leaders to envision a “broader Asia”, linking the Pacific and Indian Oceans to form the Indo-Pacific. And as he has gone about reconstituting Japan’s role as a security provider in the region and beyond, India seems most willing to acknowledge Tokyo’s centrality in shaping the evolving security architecture in the IndoPacific.

The U.S.-India-Japan trilateral engagement is gaining

momentum. The three countries held their first trilateral meeting at the foreign ministerial level in September 2015, followed by the six-day Malabar 2015 naval exercise in the Bay of Bengal a month later, which reflected a convergence of India’s Act East policy, Japan’s growing focus on freedom of navigation in the South China Sea and the Obama administration’s “strategic rebalance” towards the Indo-Pacific. Other trilateral configurations are also emerging with Japan, Australia and India interacting at a regional level. There is a growing convergence in the region now that the strategic framework of the Indo-Pacific is seen as the best way forward to manage the rapidly shifting contours of Asia.

Though Beijing views the framework with suspicion, many in China acknowledge that the Indo-Pacific has emerged as a critical regional area for India, and that China needs to synchronise its policies across the Indian Ocean region and the Pacific.

Economy without cash

The starfish Once a man was walking along a beach. The sun was shining and it was a beautiful day. Off in the distance he could see a person going back and forth between the surf's edge and and the beach. Back and forth this person went. As the man approached, he could see that there were hundreds of starfish stranded on the sand as the result of the natural action of the

is also stepping up its infrastructure investment in India with the two sides even taking forward potential Japanese investment in India’s development of the Chabahar port in Iran.

As he came up to the person, he said: "You must be crazy.

There are thousands of miles of beach covered with starfish. You can't possibly make a difference."

The person looked at the man.

He then stooped down and pick up one more starfish and threw it back into the ocean. He turned back to the man and said: "It sure made a difference to that one!"

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s emotional appeal to the nation, asking for a time of 50 days to weed out black money, needs to be considered favourably. It will be appropriate to wait for some time before passing judgments on the efficacy of the bold step taken by the government. The politicians in the Opposition need to exercise restraint and not present themselves as being against this war on black money.

Raju Kalita Chwkidinghee, Dibrugarh

TRAVEL & TOURISM

DIBRUGARH, WEDNEDDAY, NOVEMBER 16

Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir is a paradise for tourists. It is situated on the top most part of the country and it is set

like a jewelled crown on the map of India. The majestic Himalayan Mountain Range and the Pir Panjal

Range in Jammu and Kashmir, represent the awe-inspiring supremacy, beauty, and opulence of Nature.

Nature Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir

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Pilgrimage Tourism in Jammu and Kashmir Jammu and Kashmir is a home to several sacred places of worship. There are many lofty temples, which attract a large number of Hindu pilgrims. The sacred cave shrine of Vaishno Devi, in Jammu and Kashmir, is flooded with devotees almost all throughout the year. A pilgrimage to the Vaishno Devi mandir is regarded as one of the holiest pilgrimages. In the cave there are images of three deities, Mahakali, Mahasaraswati, and Mahalakshmi.

The Amarnath cave, located on the mount Amarnath, is another holy place for the Hindus. In the month of Shravan, on the full moon in August, thousands of

Hindu religious devotees go on a pilgrimage up to the cave. The Mahakali temple at Jammu, in Jammu and Kashmir, is considered second to the Vaishno Devi in respect to spiritual power.

The Khir Bhawani temple, in Srinagar, is a very important Hindu Shrine. It is dedicated to the Hindu goddess Ragnya Devi. Khir Bhawani temple is visited by Hindus in large numbers to offer prayers to seek the blessings of the deity. Charar-e-Sharif in Jammu and Kashmir is the mausoleum of Shaikh Noor-ud-Din Noorani, and is a holy place for the Muslim devotees.

This shrine draws people from all division of life to seek his blessings and

favour. The most important Gurudwara in Jammu and Kashmir is Chhatti

Padshahi Gurudwara, situated near the Kathi Darwaza, Srinagar, which is

held in great awe and reverence by devotees of all faiths especially the Sikhs.

right. For the would-be golfer, there are golf sets on hire, pros to coach one in the game, and provi-

sional memberships. A range of rafting options is available on the Indus and its major tributaries.

Leisure Tourism in Adventure Jammu and Kashmir Tourism in

The beautiful natural landscape of Jammu and Kashmir makes it one of the most coveted destinations in India. The outstanding beauty of the Himalayan Mountain range attracts tourists from all over the world. The valleys in Jammu and Kashmir are an indispensable part of its tourism. The natural splendour of the Kashmir valley is bound to mesmerise the visitors. The Puga valley of Jammu and

Kashmir is renowned for its borax and sulphur deposits and hot water springs. This valley is a major crowd pull.

The Suru Valley forms the foundation of the Kargil district in Jammu and Kashmir.

It is a fertile valley and a much visited destination of Jammu and Kashmir. The Nubra valley of Jammu and Kashmir, portrays some characteristics which are not seen any where else in the Himalayan valleys. The exquisite water bodies of

Jammu and Kashmir enhance the beauty of the state. These water bodies are of great environmental and socio-economic implication.

Jammu and Kashmir has a number of monuments which are of prime historical importance. The Hari Parbat fort of Jammu and Kashmir was built in the 18th century and is a much visited site of the state. The Baghe Bahu fort in Jammu is the oldest structure built almost three thousand years ago by Raja Bahulochan but restored by Dogra Kings.

Beautiful gardens and wa-

The most well-known of these are Dal Lake and Nagin Lake of Srinagarwith their multi-faceted eco system and magnificence. National and international tourists horde to the place fascinated by the awe-inspiring beauty of the places.

Top 5 Places to Visit in Kashmir Gulmarg

Sonamarg Located on the SrinagarLadakh Highway, around two and a half hours drive northeast of Srinagar, scenic Sonamarg ("Meadow of Gold") is famous for its Thajiwas Glacier. What's remarkable about this glacier is how accessible it is.

From the highway, you can hike up to the glacier and back in around five hours.

If you don't have so much time to spare, it's possible

Pahalgam Pahalgam, the "Valley of Shepherds", is around three hours drive from Srinagar and is near the departure point for pilgrims going on the Amarnath Yatra (avoid visiting during July as it will be very busy then). Visitors commonly head to Pahalgam's Betaab Valley(the Bollywood movie "Betaab" was shot there), with its fresh flowing Lidder River and surrounding snow-capped

to ride a pony instead, or take a taxi part of the way there and walk. It is costly though. Pony owners will charge at least 600 rupees per person for a return trip.

Do bargain hard. Scenes of many Bollywood movies have been filmed in the area, and you won't have to try very hard to feel like you're in one! There are a number of options for eating and staying at Sonamarg. Ahsan Mount Resort has fabulous Swiss tents for glamping. hills. However, what you need to be aware of, is that you'll only be allowed to take your vehicle up to a certain point to reach the Valley. After that, you'll need to hire a prepaid vehicle provided by the local transport association, or walk. Entrance to the Valley is regulated and costs 10 rupees. Other possible activities around Pahalgam include golfing, trout fishing, and river rafting. It's a popular destination for adventure tourism.

terfalls enhance the exquisiteness of this fort. Palaces in Jammu and Kashmir also have a great historical significance.

Numerous palaces were built in the land of Jammu and Kashmir, but at present only a few survives. The Amar Mahal Palace in Jammu and Ram Nagar Palace in Udhampur Districtare the most wellknown palaces of the state.

Gulmarg ("Meadow of Flowers"), India's version of a ski resort, is situated less than two hours drive east of Srinagar. The season runs from mid December to mid March. If you're not into skiing, you may still want to let the gondola whisk you more than 13,000 feet up Mount Apharwat for outstanding views. Apparently, it's the world's highest cable

car.

And, it's very popular, so you should buy your tickets online to avoid a long queues. Unfortunately, you'll still have to wait to board it though. Ubiquitous pony rides are also available in Gulmarg, and their owners are particularly aggressive in pestering tourists for business. If you feel like splashing some cash, treat yourself to a couple of nights at the Khyber Himalayan Resort and Spa.

Jammu and Kashmir

Jammu and Kashmir is an ideal place for adventure and sports tourism.

The most popular tourist activities in Kashmir include camping, surfing, white-water rafting, backpacking, kayaking, bicycling, canoe trips, snow skiing, fishing, skiing, hunting, water skiing, rock climbing, hiking, snowboarding transHimalayan jeep safaris and paragliding.

Gulmarg in Jammu and Kashmir has one of the world's highest green golf courses, as well as a clubhouse, which is a historical building in its own

6 authentic Kashmiri food you must try The history of Kashmiri cuisine can be traced back several hundred years to the invasion of India by Tumur and the migration of merchants, craftsmen and cooks

from Samarkand to the verdant Kashmir valley.

The descendants of these cooks, the wazas, are now regarded as the master chefs of Kashmiri cuisine, which

Sinthan Top Sinthan Top is becoming a sought after alternative to the other, often crowded, tourist places in Kashmir. Interest in it has grown since construction of the Kokernag-Sinthan Top-Kishtwar Road, connecting Kashmir with Jammu, began. It's yet to be developed though, so there's an absence of facilities for tourists. Hence, it's a good idea to stop in Daksum on the way. The drive from Srinagar to Sinthan Top takes around two and a half hours. It's possible to stay in Daksum, or Kokernag where there are more options.

These are excellent places to go trekking and exploring the great outdoors.

which takes hours of preparation and consists of an elaborate multi-course meal.

Here's a list of dishes made by the wazas of Kashmir that you must try

Rogan josh Lamb in Kashmiri maval petals and red onion gravy This dish is a huge hit with people who like their food spicy hot. The combination of hot spices and the red colour derived from maval, the dried flower of the cockscomb plant make it a treat for the eyes and tastebuds. While rogan

stands for fat that the meat is cooked in, josh means hot and passionate.

Tabak Maaz

Charar-i-Sharief and Yousmarg Yousmarg, a sprawling meadow around two hours drive southwest of Srinagar, is refreshingly underdeveloped (only a couple of restaurants are there). The highlight is the Doodh Ganga river, which is reached by a picturesque 30 minute walk along a forested trail down a hill. Alternatively, it's possible to take a pony. The pony owners will insist you do so and they are quite annoying (don't give into them though if you do want to walk). On the way to Yousmarg you'll pass numerous apple trees (if you spot anyone selling apples on the roadside, get some as they're delicious!) as well the town of Charar-i-Sharief. It's worth stopping there as it's home to one of the most holy Sufi Muslim shrines in India and some of the biggest halwa parathas you'll ever see!

is rich and redolent with the distinct flavours of spices such as cardamom, cinnamon, cloves and saffron. A formal banquet in Kashmir is called the royal Wazwan

Lamb ribs with turmeric, cinnamon and saffron The front ribs of a fatty goat poached in moval essence, spices and fennel and then seared in ghee makes tabak maas, the Kashmiri lamb chops worth a try.

Rista Small lamb dumplings in an onion, chilli and saffron gravy This traditional recipe

consists of lamb meatballs made with minced meat and poached in turmeric water to cook in a stock.

Gushtaba Lamb meatballs in a yoghurt gravy The lamb meat is beaten with a walnut hammer to make it gooey after which fat and salt is rubbed in it. The meat balls are then poached to make the texture spongy after which they are cooked in a yogurt-based gravy called yakhni.

Kashmiri haakh A traditional Kashmiri collard green preparation Made with Kashmiri collard green that is grown in lake water and known for its bitter sharp taste, haakh is collard green cooked with fennel.

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16

Be alert and aggressive, Army chief asks troops at LoC Jammu, Nov 15: Army chief Gen Dalbir Singh Suhag on Tuesday reviewed security situation along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir and asked the troops to be alert against any inimical activity, in the wake of heightened tension in IndiaPakistan ties.

"The Chief of Army Staff, General Dalbir Singh visited Headquarters Northern Command at Udhampur today", a senior Army officer said.

The visit comes a day after Pakistan said the Army

KEY HIGHLIGHTS Army chief Gen Dalbir Singh Suhag on Tuesday reviewed security situation along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir

Army chief Gen Dalbir Singh Suhag killed seven of its soldiers in shelling.

Gen Suhag exhorted the

troops to be alert against any inimical designs and be aggressive in their approach.

Army chief commended the soldiers for boldly responding to ceasefire violations along the LoC The General interacted with the Formation Commanders and reviewed the situation

along the Line of Control (LoC) as well as internal security situation in the Command theatre, he said.

The Army chief commended the soldiers for boldly responding to ceasefire violations along the LoC. He also lauded the synergy and co-operation between the Northern Command, Air Force, Paramilitary Forces, Civil Administration, Central Police Organisations operating in the region.

The firing at the LoC has intensified ever since the surgical strike of September 29. (PTI)

Right hand to be inked for old currency exchange Department of Economic Affairs and the Department of Financial Services are preparing standard operating procedure (SoPs) for ink marking as well as additional steps to be taken to manage the crowds.

New Delhi, Nov 15 (PTI) A small mark of indelible ink, used mostly during elections to prevent multiple voting, will be put on the right hand finger of those exchanging banned 500 and 1,000 rupee notes for new ones from tomorrow to prevent crowding at banks by repeat exchangers.

The move comes amid long, unending queue at banks even after a week of Prime Minister Narendra Modi announcing withdrawal of old Rs 500/1000 notes in biggest crackdown on black money, corruption and counterfeit currency.

As per the assessment of Finance Ministry, bank counters are getting overcrowded due to same people turning up again and again to exchange old notes.

"Ideally, the ink mark should have been put on the left hand as is done when a person casts his vote. But with by-elections due in some states, an ink mark for exchange or withdrawal of currency note on the left hand will lead to unnecessary difficulties. So it has been decided

that the ink mark would be put on right hand," an official said.

available to banks and post offices from tonight.

The ink manufactured at the Mysore Paints and Varnish Ltd - the firm that has supplied indelible ink to the Election Commission since 1962 to mark voters, will be made

Banks in major cities will start marking note exchangers with the ink, the official said.

With 95% exam attendance, J-K students gave befitting reply to militants' New Delhi, Nov 15: Students from Jammu and Kashmir have given a befitting reply to terrorists as 95 per cent of them appeared for their class XII board examination in the state, which is in itself is a powerful "surgical strike", HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar said today.

"In Kashmir Valley, for the past several months, schools were shut, over 30 had been burnt. But students from J-K, Leh and Ladakh have given a befitting reply to terrorists with a presence of 95 per cent in the board exam held yesterday," he said.

Emphasising that this was "India's reply", Javadekar said the country believed in education and progress and the message was that no design to break the country would succeed.

"I'm proud of those children and their parents who are the strength of India. Education is the way to progress. They have understood and given this befitting reply. We have seen the surgical strike of the army, but this reply given by students is also a powerful surgical strike," he said.

Javadekar, who was speak-

ing at an event 'Kala Utsav', said all should get a basic level of education that supports them in life but added that unique talents should be brought to the fore as well.

Later speaking on the sidelines of the event, he made it clear that compulsory class X board examinations will be introduced for CBSE students from the next academic session 2017-18.

"There is no confusion, today more than 23 million students appear for tenth board examination over the country through state boards. For CBSE also half the students appear for the exam, while half don't appear because there was an option available," Javadekar said.

Now those 2 million who chose the option will also have to take the exam, he said.

The measure, however, he emphasised will be implemented from the next academic year, saying goalposts or rules should not be shifted mid-course.

The move will bring about parity with state boards, he said. (PTI)

Also, an expert committee comprising of officers from the

The notes withdrawn accounted for 86 per cent of the cash circulating in the Asia's third-largest economy.

The source said the use of indelible ink would prevent "unscrupulous persons" from use conduits for exchanging notes.

A persons, as per the revised

guideline, is allowed to exchange old notes totalling up to 4,500 on a single day.

Earlier in the day, Economic Affairs Secretary Shaktikanta Das said it was noticed that the same people were coming back again and again to exchange notes, causing the long queues and creating hassles for genuine people to get their cash.

By-elections for four Lok Sabha seats - Cooch Behar and Tamluk in Purba Medinipur district in West Bengal, Shahdol in Madhya Pradesh and Lakhimpur in Assam will be held on November 19.

As many as 8 Assembly seats in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Tripura and Puducherry will go to polls on the same day.

Failure to start women's league is my only regret: Batra New Delhi, Nov 15: He looked into the abyss, pulled it out, turned Indian hockey's fortunes singlehandedly and as the tenure of Narinder Batra as Hockey India boss draws to a close, the administrator says his only regret is his failure to start a women's league on the lines of HIL. Batra, who first served as the secretary general and then president of Hockey India, will soon take up his new responsibility as International Hockey Federation (FIH) chief.

The 59-year-old Batra became the first non-European president of the FIH after he was elected to the top post by an overwhelming margin during the penultimate day of the 45th FIH Congress last Saturday.

It means he will have to leave his other administrative posts, which also includes Hockey India President's chair.

But Batra seemed a contended man and hoped the legacy and professionalism he brought will continue long after his departure.

"Hockey India has now become a professional set-up and it should continue the way it is going for the last 4-5 years. My satisfaction is that I have prepared a base and I hope it doesn't go down," an emotional Batra said during his first media conference here after being elected to the top post of world hockey body.

"I never judge myself. I have my style of working but I work honestly. Now it's upto the people to decide whether they like my style of working or not.

"I feel we made progress. The men's team rose from 12 to 6 in world rankings and the women's team qualified for Olympics after a long gap. I desperately wanted to start the women's league but I failed in that. That's my only regret," he said.

Batra's win means the power centre of the sport will now move to Asia from Europe, which had been ruling international hockey for decades.

Batra, who became President of Hockey India in October 2014 after serving as its secretary, succeeds Spaniard Leandro Negre, who has been the FIH chief since 2008.

Batra is solely credited for changing the fortunes of Indian hockey by bringing in money to the sport via sponsors and his business acumen.

He turned India into the epicentre of world hockey and made Indian players financially independent by creating a successful IPL-style Hockey India League, which will enter its fifth season next year.

Batra also brought international hockey to India and ensured that the country got to host a major international tournament every year in the last four years.

According to reports, under Batra's leadership Hockey India's income has grown from USD 500,000 to USD 14 million over the last six-year period.

But Batra said till he hands over the charges of Hockey India to a new president, he won't be involved in any financial or commercial decisions.

"I will have to give up all my posts which has conflict of interest. As per our Constitution within 15 days the Executive Board of Hockey India will select or elect a new president but I will abstain from that decision," he said.

"During this period I won't be taking any financial or commercial decisions."

Batra has five conflict of interests issues, which include Hockey Jammu and Kashmir President, Hockey India League Chairman, Hockey India President, Asian Hockey Federation VicePresident and Associate VicePresident of Indian Olympic Committee.

Highlighting the latest decisions taken under his leadership, Batra also informed that from 2018 HIL will be seventeam affair after JSW Sports brought a new franchise.

Men's World Cup and Asian Champions Trophy in 2018 and Hockey World League next year. (PTI)

"The ink and silver thread supplier is supplying the same thing to Pakistan as well. So, what is the government going to do about it ? [to end counterfeit menace]," he asked. well. So, what is the government going to do about it ? [to end counterfeit menace]," the Hyderabad Lok Sabha member asked, while talking to PTI here.

Maintaining that the demonetisation move has caused "immense problems to every one", Mr. Owaisi said the government should give ample time -- at least a couple of months -- for people to

exchange old notes. He said if anyone deposits huge amount of money, it can certainly be tracked.

He said ample time was given to the people when there such a move (demonetisation) in the Philippines, as also in Europe when Euro was introduced. "This [giving ample time for people] has been the norm in various countries".

Mr. Owaisi said he would give a notice for adjournment motion in Lok Sabha, where winter session commences on Wednesday, to discuss the demonetisation move which, he said, has put farmers, rural and urban economies in distress.

People are finding huge difficulty in usage of newly introduced Rs 2,000 note because "no

Black money helped Indian economy during global recession: Akhilesh Yadav Lucknow, Nov 15: In a controversial remark, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav today said economists were of the opinion that black money helped the Indian economy in times of global recession.

"I am very clear on this...black money should not be generated. Economic experts say the magnitude of the global economic crisis at times is not felt in India because of strong (parallel) economy of black money," he said.

"I am opposed to black money . I do not want it," he said on the sidelines of Indo-Myanmar-Thailand Friendship Car Rally flag off here.

His remarks come in the wake of the government's sudden decision to demonetise Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes to stamp out black money, resulting in serpentine queues outside banks and ATMs.

one has change", he claimed.

"86 per cent of our currencies are in the form of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes.

You [government] have not planned for it, you have not prepared for it.

Re-calibration [of ATM machines] would take more than 100 days. The worst part is: my money is in the bank but I cannot take it out," he said. (PTI)

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav Akhilesh also said that whichever government had troubled the poor, it was shown the door by the masses. "This government has caused immense pain to commoners," he said.

The chief minister was of the view that demonetisation will not serve the purpose of checking black money .

"It's good that corruption is checked and people become aware that there should not be (any) corruption. But this problem cannot be overcome merely by changing Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes...Those who used to keep such notes are now waiting for Rs 2000 notes...," Akhilesh had said on Saturday.(Agencies)

India, Israel to intensify defence, anti-terror cooperation New Delhi, Nov 15 :Reflecting their growing proximity, India and Israel today decided to further "broad-base" their already close defence partnership and intensify cooperation in combating radicalisation and extremism, while calling upon global community to act tough against terror networks and States harbouring them.

The two countries also agreed to deepen their cooperation in a variety of areas including trade and investment, agriculture, water resources and cyber crime during extensive talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Israeli President Reuven Rivlin, who is on his first visit to India.

Giving gist of his talks with the Israeli leader, Modi, in a media statement, said people of both countries were constantly threatened by forces of terrorism and extremism and both sides agreed to intensify cooperation in combating them effectively, particularly having "prac-

tical and specific" engagement such as in the cyber domain.

"We recognize that terrorism is a global challenge, knows no boundaries and has extensive links with other forms of organized crime," he said.

In an obvious reference to Pakistan, the Prime Minister said, "Regrettably, one of the countries of its origin and spread is in Indias neighbourhood.

"We agreed that the international community must act with resolve and determination against terror networks and States that harbour them. Failure to act and silence of speech only encourages the terrorists," he said.

Noting that Rivlins visit has given a "crucial push" to efforts to build new pillars in bilateral ties, Modi said both sides noted the strength of the growing defence partnership and agreed on the need to make it "more broadbased" through production and manufacturing partnerships.

Demonetisation will have adverse effect on GDP: Cong

New Delhi, Nov 15: On the eve of the winter session of Parliament, the Congress today stepped up its attack on the government over demonetisation arguing that the move would have an "adverse effect" on the Batra also listed some of the major events India would be GDP due to "freezing" of hosting in the next two years, 86 per cent of banknotes prominent among them are in value terms.

Currency ink, silver thread supplier same for Pakistan: Owaisi Hyderabad, Nov 15: AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Tuesday claimed that the supplier of ink and silver threads used in currency notes is the same for India and Pakistan, and sought to know what was government's strategy to deal with it.

"The ink and silver thread supplier is supplying the same thing to Pakistan as

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NATION

Seeking to expose the claims of the BJP-led dispensation on the issue of black money, the AICC wondered as to why Prime Minister Narendra Modi was not divulging the names of those holding black money as sought by the Supreme Court.

"Where is black money?

As far as black money is concerned, Modiji is yet to give the names to the Supreme Court," Congress spokesman Kapil Sibal told reporters.

He said the Congress was opposed to marking

people exchanging nowdefunct notes with indelible ink and insisted that the move meant the government is preventing people from replacing their own money.

"This measure will have an adverse effect on the GDP. Rs 16 lakh crore of currency, out of which 86 per cent was frozen. But, what do they care about the people?" he asked.

Singling out the Prime Minister for attack, Sibal asked why the people should believe him on the issue of black money when he had "lied" about it earlier.

He said that during the Lok Sabha polls campaign, Modi had claimed Rs 80 lakh crore is stashed in foreign banks and he would bring it back in 100 days. He had also promised to deposit Rs 15 lakh in each bank account. (PTI)

India is Israels largest buyer of military hardware and the latter has been supplying various weapons systems, missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles over the last few years but the transactions have largely remained behind the curtains.

The two sides inked two pacts to strengthen cooperation in agricuture and water resources management sectors.

Referring to growing collaboration between the two countries, particularly in defence sector, Rivlin, the first Israeli President to visit India in two decades, said his country is ready to "make in India and make with India".

He also asserting that nothing can justify terrorism. "We stand together in defending our people and our values," Rivlin said.

The two sides inked two pacts to strengthen cooperation in agriculture and water resources management sectors. (PTI)

Air quality monitoring mobile lab setup in Amritsar Amritsar, Nov 15: An observational mobile station for air quality monitoring was inaugurated today by Guru Nanak Dev University Director Tarlok Singh Banipal in the varsity premises here.

The unit will assess the background pollution in Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh, he said.

Air quality is getting worse during the winter period due to inversion phenomenon (minimal dispersal of air due to cap created by temperature difference), Banipal said.

Smoke emitting from bruning of coal burning, crop stubble, solid waste, and the vehicles in presence of catalysts like ozone and peroxyacetyl nitrate further aggravates the problem, he said.

(PTI)

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16

EDUCATION

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How to Be a Successful Business Owner 8 Back To School Tips Every Student Should Know It's that time of year again and we can hear the school bells ringing! It can be hard to adjust from the dog days of summer to the busy and fast pace of the school year.

Here are eight tips to get back into the school mode and start this year off right!

Tip #1: Have the Proper School Supplies that you need for your classes!

I highly suggest getting folders and binder with patterns and designs to make note taking more fun. During the first day of class most teachers will tell you everything they require for their courses. Make sure that you get the specified supplies so that you are able to keep up with the class work and stay organized.

Tip #2: Get an Agenda!

During the school year is such a busy time! Between taking test, doing home work, attending activities, and school events it can be really hard to keep track of everything. By keeping an updated agenda you can better manage your time and know what you have to accomplish. Having an agenda will definitely help you with time management.

Time management is key to being successful and staying on top of everything you need to do!

Tip #3: Know your Course Syllabus Knowing your class schedule is so important for being successful in the course your taking. Teachers will typical hand out your syllabus in class or post it online. I highly suggest keeping it in a safe and convenient place so you can frequently view. Knowing when you have papers and projects due is so important for passing the course and keeping up your grades. Having the syllabus will allow you to plan ahead and give yourself proper time to complete every assignment and get great grades!

Tip #4: Do Not Procrastinate This is something that we have all been guilty of in the past and have learned the stressful repercussions. A habit is created in three weeks so if you study for every course your taking daily in 21 days that will be a new habit for you. Dedicating a little bit of time everyday to the courses you are taking is definitely going to positively impact your grades and make you a better student!

Tip #5: Know What is Expected of You rIt is very important to know what your teachers are expecting from you. Pay attention to what the teacher is saying about the workload of the class and what they are hoping for

you to get out of it. Teacher is supposed to want you to succeed so most likely they will provide you with what you need to do to thrive.

Knowing their expectations and achieving them will help your year start smoothly. Always remember that communicating with your teachers is key for understanding their expectations.

Tip #6: Get Involved Getting involved with your school community is great because you can pursue your interest and meet peers who have the same and similar interest as you.

Many studies have shown that students who are involved in sports and school activities are able to achieve higher GPA's. If you enjoy playing sports try out for the school team. If you are a musician or actor then join your school band or theatre company and share your talent with your fellow peers. Join clubs that you are interested in and attend all the meetings. If your school doesn't have the sports you play, a club you want to join, or a musical or theatre program then talk to your school administrators and see if you are able to start your own! It is amazing to have something that you are passionate about and enjoy doing so never be afraid to pursue your interests.

Tip #7: Learn What Type of Leaner You Are Everyone is individual and so is the way you learn!

There are three main types of learning styles which are auditory, visual, and kinesthetic. Knowing what type of leaner you are is going to help you be a better student and have better studying habits.When you are able to determine the type of learning style that is best for you, you will find better results when you are studying and it will result in higher test scores! I highly encourage you to do some research and determine the type of learner you are so you can personalize your studying.

Tip #8: List of academic goals Write out a list of goals that you want to achieve for the upcoming school year!

Do you want to make the lead role in the play, get that varsity spot on the basket ball team, improve your grades; you can reach all the goals you set for this year! When you write down every goal you are able to plan and realize what you need to do to prepare for them. Having that list can be a driving and motivating force to help you work to achieve those goals.

Every new school year is a opportunity for a fresh start, new friends, and to make it count. You have the potential to make this year one of the best ones yet!

Most business owners will tell you that starting a business is both one of the most challenging and most rewarding ways to earn a living. Being a successful business owner requires a large amount of hard work and dedication, but also generally relies on a set of personal qualities and business practices that are common characteristics of successful entrepreneurs.

These characteristics lie as much in a business's founding principles as in its dayto-day operations and dictate every decision the entrepreneur makes. By following these guidelines, you can up your chances of founding a successful business or getting your existing business back on track.

Finding the Right Mindset Do what you know That is, you should start a business that focuses on what you have experience in. That experience can be either prior work experience or a personal hobby that you're ready to turn into a career. Even if a business idea seems highly profitable

used on a smaller scale. This proves to potential investors that your idea is a valid way of making money, and increasing your odds of ever getting investment money (if that's what you're looking for). ØFor example, imagine that in our example, you want to start a large operation that sources, imports, roasts, and packages its own coffee beans that are then either sold or served to customers at its coffee shops. Rather than seeking huge contributions from investors to buy all of this equipment, you should start with a small coffee shop first, then maybe try sourcing and importing beans, and work up from there to build a brand.

Create a support network One of the most important parts of successful business ownership is getting over your own ego and seeking help. Your biggest sources of advice are going to be your group of business associates and other professionals that share your goals. Surround yourself with knowledgable and

ample, imagine that you see another coffee shop making money by selling customized coffee-related merchandise. This may make you want to jump into this market as well. However, doing so before establishing your primary objective, making coffee, would introduce significant risk, and may detract from your ability to focus on coffee quality.

Keep detailed records In order to be successful, you'll have to make a habit of recording each and every expense and revenue that your company has, as well as every dollar that flows through it. By knowing where exactly your money is coming in and where it's going, you're more capable of recognizing financial difficulties before they arise. In addition, doing this will give you a better idea of where exactly you can make cuts to expenses or increases to revenues. ØFor example, in our example, you would keep detailed records of how much coffee you bought and sold in a given month and what you paid for it. This could

your profits, depend on a successful supply chain organization. By fostering good relationships with your suppliers, organizing deliveries, and consistently providing customers with timely service, you can increase your profitability and reputation. Successful supply chain management can also help you eliminate any part of your business with wasted resources, like raw materials or labor. ØFor example, our example coffee shop would want to be on good terms with its coffee bean supplier and have an organized supply chain structure for a number of reasons. This is especially crucial for ensuring that you never run out of coffee, but could also mean that you could get more consistent deliveries, try new types of coffee bean when they become available, or negotiate lower prices.

in theory, don't start that business unless your heart is in it. While profit is important, it likely won't keep you coming in early every day and driving growth. ØFor example, imagine you have experience making coffee as a barista or waiter and want to turn your passion for good coffee into a small business. You would already know a good amount about the industry and be able to apply not only your knowledge but your passion to your work.

Start with a well-defined purpose While the financial benefits of business ownership can be great, most successful business owners don't start with money in mind. To get your business off the ground, you'll need a clear purpose. This purpose should be something more intangible than money, like giving back to your community by creating jobs, solving a problem that you see in your daily life, or pursuing a passion. This doesn't mean that you shouldn't also strive for profitability, just that your primary goal should be the achievement of a greater purpose. ØFor our coffee shop example, your purpose would be serving the perfect cup of coffee to every customer.

Alternately, it could be to form a community in your coffee shop where people can meet and spend time with friends.

Find a first step instead of a destination You should always start with a business model that can be up and running quickly on a low budget.

Too many small businesses start with grandiose goals that will require a large amount of startup capital and investors. However, successful businesses will have a model that can be

successful people and feed off of their ideas and enthusiasm. ØAlso seek general small business tips online; the web is a goldmine of information. Just be sure your information is from a reliable source.

Find a mentor A good mentor in this case is someone who has already run or is running a successful business of their own. A good example would be a family member or family friend that has been successful in business. This mentor can help you with anything from knowing how to manage your employees to properly filing your taxes.

Because their knowledge comes from direct experience, they're able to help you more personally than any other source could. Ø While your mentor doesn't have to have founded the same type of business you are starting, it would help. For example, another coffee shop founder would be the best source of information in our coffee shop example, but a restaurateur could also be of significant help.

Running Your Business Efficiently Focus only on your primary operations at first That is, avoid being caught up in every business opportunity that comes your way. It's better to be perfect at one thing than mediocre at five. This applies as much to making decisions to diversify your business as it does to deciding to take on additional projects for yourself outside of your primary business. Focusing on one thing will allow you to commit all of your resources there and be more productive in that endeavor. ØContinuing with our ex-

you help you identify if, for example, the price of coffee beans was steadily increasing and help you plan whether or not to raise your own prices or consider switching suppliers.

Limit expenses as much as possible While this may seem obvious, just try to think of areas where you could generate the same effect by spending less money. Consider using pre-owned equipment, finding cheaper forms of advertising (for example, fliers rather than newspaper ads), or negotiating better payment terms with suppliers or customers to save a few dollars here and there. Try to maintain very low spending habits and only spent money when and where you absolutely have to. Ø In our example, this could mean starting out with used coffee grinders (as long as they still functioned well) and trying to get as many supplies as possible from the same supplier (cups, lids, straws, etc.).

Consider supply chain efficiency Your costs, and therefore

Consider finding strategic partners Much like a good mentor, a strategic partner can provide you the boost you need to grow your business.

Foster strategic partnerships by reaching out to businesses you think could benefit yours, whether they are suppliers, technology providers, or complementary businesses. A good relationship with another company can provide you both free advertising, lower your costs of doing business, or allow you to expand to new markets, depending on the partners you choose. ØFor example, your coffee shop could benefit from a strategic relationship with a supplier that gives you access to discounts or new products. Alternately, a strategic partner in a complementary business, such as a pastry shop, could help you both reach new customers and increase your revenues. This could be done either through recommending each other or by offering product's from your partner's business and vice-versa.

Be responsible when it comes to debt It's very important that you realistically assess your ability to pay back any debt that you take on. While starting and running a business is always risk, try to minimize your liabilities by

only taking out as much as you absolutely need. And when you do take on debt, be sure to structure your cash flows such that you are paying it off as quickly as possible. Prioritize debt repayment before you do anything else. ØFor example, if you took out $20,000 to get your coffee shop started, don't think about expanding your product offerings or upgrading your coffee grinders until you've paid that loan back.

Growing Your Business Perfect your business pitch Have a 30-second speech ready that explains your business as briefly and efficiently as possible, including information about your purpose, your service/products, and your goals. Having a practiced pitch that you can rattle off to anyone can help you in situations where you're trying to make a sale to a customer as well as it can when you're trying to bring an investor on board. If you can't explain your business in this short time, your business plan needs refining. ØFor your coffee shop, you'd want to explain what you do (sell coffee), your services (the drinks you offer), what makes you special (maybe the coffee you serve is rare or locallyroasted), and what you plan to do next (expand to another location, new products, etc.).

Earn a reputation for good service Earning a positive reputation is like free advertising; your customers will spread the word of your business to friends and come back frequently. Treat each and every sale like the success or failure of your business depends on it.

This also means that you should be consistent with every action your business takes and every interaction with customers.

you're starting out. Chances are, they're doing something right. If you can figure out what that is, you can implement it in your own business and avoid the trial-and-error they probably went through to get there. ØOne of the best ways to do this when you're starting out is to examine your competitors' pricing strategies. In our coffee shop example, it would be much simpler to price your coffee similarly to competitors rather than to experiment with different prices on your own.

Always be looking for growth opportunities Once you've gotten established, you should always be on the lookout for places you can expand.

Whether that means moving to a larger storefront, increasing manufacturing space, or opening a new location will depend on your business and goals. Successful business owners realize that one of the primary opponents to longterm growth is remaining stagnant. This means taking the risk of expansion rather than resting on your laurels at one, original location. ØFor our coffee example, maybe there is a nearby area that you find is underserved by coffee shops. Once your primary location is up and running smoothly, you should investigate opening a new shop in that area. This could also mean moving up from a small stand to a full coffee shop, depending on your circumstances.

ØFor your coffee shop, this may mean throwing out a burnt batch of coffee so that your customers are always served the absolutely best product you can offer.

Diversify your income streams Another way to increase the value of your business is by seeking out other areas where you can make money. Assuming you've already established your primary business, look around and see where you could offer a different service or product. Maybe your customers frequently visit your store for one item and then immediately go to another store for a different item. Find out what that other item is and offer it.

Watch your competition closely You should always look to your competitors for ideas, especially when

ØSome easy diversification options for your coffee shop would be offering pastries, sandwiches, or books for purchase. (Wikihow)

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16

INTERNATIONAL

Donald Trump May Announce Cabinet Appointments This Week Washington, Nov 15: US President-elect Donald Trump is in final stages of giving shape to his Cabinet and announcements in this regard could be made anytime this week, his aides indicated on Tuesday.

The vice president-elect Mike Pence, who also heads presidential transition team, is arriving in New York on Tuesday to hold meetings with Trump.

"They'll be reviewing a number of names," Jason Miller, a transition communication advisor said.

"If the Vice President-elect is getting together with the President-elect to discuss names, then I would say that its serious, obviously," Miller said.

Meanwhile, the American media was abuzz with speculations on potential

President-elect Donald Trump gives his acceptance speech during his election night rally.

Cabinet picks of Trump. picks being talked about are The former New York Senator Jeff Sessions, SenaMayor Rudy Giuliani along tor Bob Corker and Newt with the former US Ambas- Gingrich, the former sador to the UN John Speaker to the US House of Bolton was speculated to be Representative. in the race for being the Sec- However, Miller cautioned retary of State. against finalising any names Other potential Cabinet as of now.

"You can't believe everything you read. I don't want to play the speculation game as far as names," he said.

"There's a thorough, detailed process that the Vice President-elect and the transition team are going through and the Presidentelect will make the decision and let us know," he said.

Sessions was seen entering the Trump Towers fuelling the speculation about his role in the Trump Cabinet.

"I'm a huge fan of Senator Sessions and the Presidentelect will be lucky to have him in any capacity," Miller said.

There were also reports that Laura Ingraham is under consideration for WhiteHousePress Secretary.

"You're going to see a num-

India's NSG bid: China still stiff on its stand Beijing, Nov 15: China, which has been blocking India's NSG bid, on Tuesday maintained its tough stand on the issue and called for a two-step "non-discriminatory" solution to admit non-NPT members into the 48-member elite grouping. China's remarks came as the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) at its meeting in Vienna November 11 discussed a formula acting on India's application to join it.

"We maintain that we should follow two-step approach. First we should find out a solution that is applicable to all non-NPT members applications to the NSG through consultations and discussions," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told a media briefing here outlining China's stand at the Vienna meeting.

The second step is to discuss specific non-NPT (Nuclear non-Proliferation Treaty) members' admission into the NSG, he said.

"We believe that the solution should be non-discriminatory and applicable to all non-NPT members and it must not damage the core value of the NSG as well as the authority, effectiveness and integrity of the NPT," he said.

"We hope that we can enter

China, which has blocked earlier India's entry on the ground that India has not signed the NPT, has held two rounds of talks with India and Pakistan about their admission into the group. into the second step after finishing the first step at an early date which is to talk about specific non-NPT members joining the NSG," he said. China's stand for a non-discriminatory criteria is regarded significant as Pakistan, a close ally of Beijing too has applied for the NSG membership along with India.

China, which has blocked earlier India's entry on the ground that India has not signed the NPT, has held two rounds of talks with India and Pakistan about their admission into the group. India has secured the backing of the

Finance Minister Ishaq Dar yesterday made it clear that the government was not considering demonetisation of Rs 5,000 currency notes and withdrawal of Rs 40,000 prize bonds.

The minister said that these rumours are baseless and no such proposal is under consideration of the government, Dawn reported.

Haroon Akhtar Khan, Special Assistant to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif yesterday had said the proposal to discontinue currency notes and

US and majority of the NSG members based on its non-proliferation record in comparison to Pakistan which faced serious allegations of nuclear proliferation in the past specially with regard to its nuclear scientist Dr A Q Khan.

Geng said at the Vienna meeting of the NSG, members talked about the technical, legal and political matters relating non-NPT members accession to the NSG. He said this is the first time the group talked about entry of the new members.

Earlier a statement by the Chinese Foreign Ministry said, "It is the first time a discussion, not only since

the Seoul Plenary, but also since the NSG's inception in 1975, for the Group to formally take up the issue of non-NPT states' participation in an open and transparent manner".

Geng said the discussion about the entry of new members is a "good start".

"We believe it is good start and we will continue to support the NSG in following through on the first step and explore the final solution at an early date," he said.

India has been maintaining that NPT membership was not essential for joining the NSG, as was the case with France. (PTI)

US condemns terrorist attack in Balochistan At least 52 people, including women and children, were killed and more than 100 others injured in a suicide bombing on Saturday at a popular sufi shrine in Balochistan province.

prize bonds of the highest denomination was "under consideration", the daily said.

Khan said the proposal came from the Tax Reforms Commission before the 2016-17 budget but the final decision was postponed and a tax reforms implementation committee was asked to look into it after the budget.

Presently, prize bonds are sold and purchased against cash without recording any identification of the seller and buyer. These are also traded in the open market and remain a major source of fraud and illegal activities.

Pakistan People's Party Senator Osman Saifullah Khan last week submitted a resolution in the Senate to demonetise 1,000 and 5,000 rupee notes to tackle corruption, citing the example of India which has withdrew 500 and 1,000 denominations of notes. (Agencies)

Washington, Nov 15: The US has condemned the terrorist attack on a Sufi shrine in Pakistan's restive Balochistan province that killed over 50 people while asserting that it would continue to work with its partners in Pakistan and across the region to combat the threat of terrorism. "The United States condemns in the strongest terms the attack on Saturday on a Sufi shrine in Balochistan that killed 52 innocent worshipers and wounded over a hundred more. We extend our condolences to the victims and their families," State Department Spokeswoman, Elizabeth Trudeau, told reporters at her daily news conference.

"Attacks like this only deepen our shared resolve to defeat terrorism and end the targeting of religious minorities," she said. "We stand with the people of Pakistan at this difficult hour and remain committed to supporting religious freedom. We'll continue to work with our partners in Pakistan and across the region to combat the threat of terrorism," Trudeau said.

At least 52 people, including women and children, were killed and more than 100 others injured in a suicide bombing on Saturday at a popular sufi shrine in Balochistan province, an attack claimed by the Islamic State terror group.

(PTI)

Pakistani gurudwara reopens in Guru Nanak's birthplace Lahore, Nov 15: A pre-Partition gurudwara in Nankana Sahib, the birthplace of Sikhism's founder Guru Nanak, has been reopened in Pakistan's Punjab province.

"Gurudwara Kiyara Sahib which was closed over 75 years ago has finally been reopened for the yatris," Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) spokesman Amer Hashmi said.

He said thousands of Sikhs gathered in Nankana Sahib to attend the festivities on the 548th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak visited Kiyara Sahib on Monday when it was reopened by ETPB chairman Siddiqul Farooq.

Farooq also laid a foundation stone of a memorial of Bhai Mardana, a close associate of Guru Nanak, in Nankana Sahib. He said Gurudwara Kiyara Sahib

Visiting sikh pilgrims attend their religious festival at Nankana Sahib near Lahore, Pakistan has been reopened on the wish of Sikh 'yatris'.

He said on November 19, Angetha Sahib at Darbar Sahib Kartarpur will be reopened and the groundbreaking ceremony for the Baba Guru Nanak University in Nankana Sahib is scheduled for January.

On Monday, the main event of Palki was held in

Gurudwara Janamasthan Nankana Sahib, 80 kms from Lahore, in which more than 15,000 people mostly Sikh pilgrims from India (2,100), US, Canada, Britain and other European countries participated. Indian Sikhs will also visit other gurudwaras in Punjab province before their departure for home on November 21. (PTI)

University of Michigan student wearing a US: 17-year-old hijab was threatened with being set on fire Indian-origin Michigan, Nov 15: A University of Michigan student was approached by a stranger who threatened to set her on fire with a lighter if she didn't remove her hijab, police said.

The incident occurred between 5:30 and 7 p.m. on Friday just outside the campus in Ann Arbor. Police said the woman complied and left.

Pakistan won't demonetise higher currency notes: Finance Minister

Islamabad, Nov 15: Pakistan, unlike India, will not demonetise Rs 5,000 notes or withdraw Rs 40,000 prize bonds, with Finance Minister rebuffing media reports, saying "these rumours are baseless and no such proposal is under consideration".

ber of different names that are ultimately becoming a part of the President-elects administration.

"There will be non-traditional names, a number of people who have had wideranging success in a number of different fields; wideranging success in business...People will be excited when they see the type of leaders the President-elect brings into this administration," Miller said.

The Trump Campaign Manager Kellyanne Conway also said that Cabinet appointments announcement are likely this week.

"Possibly (this week). Narrowing it down," she said in response to a question.

"I think we'll get more clarity on the senior team and the cabinet," she added.

(PTI)

P10

"We do consider this a hate crime," Diane Brown, public information officer for the university's Division of Public Safety and Security, told The Washington Post.

The Ann Arbor Police Department is heading the investigation.

Witnesses described the suspect as a white man in his 20s or 30s with an average height, an athletic build and an unkempt appearance. Police also said the man reportedly appeared to be intoxicated.

The investigation comes amid reports of threats and harassment in several parts of the country after the election of Donald Trump.

Many of the incidents were directed toward African Americans, immigrants, Muslims and the LGBT community, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center, which tallied more than 200 incidents nation-

Myanmar to export 100,000 tonnes of pulses to India Nay Pyi Taw, Nov 15: Myanmar will export about 100,000 tonnes of pulses to India annually and a Memorandum of Understanding is being established in this regard, the media reported on Tuesday.

India has proposed to increase its demand for Myanmar's mung beans and pigeon peas by 25,000 tonnes per year starting next year, Xinhua news agency reported.

However, the country's yield has declined since last year although the country produced over 600,000 tonnes of mung beans and over 200,000 tonnes of pigeon peas before.

The country exports on an average about 240,000 tonnes of various pulses per year.

Myanmar pulses are mainly exported to India, followed

by China, Indonesia, the European Union and Japan, according to the Myanmar Pulses, Beans and Sesame Seeds Merchants Association. (Agencies)

wide.

The incidents were reported on the news, on social media and directly to the organization's website. The center, however, cautioned that not all incidents involved direct references to Trump and that not every incident could be independently verified. Many involved vandalism, while others were direct attacks.

Trump's campaign rhetoric against immigrants and Muslims has energized white supremacy groups and members of the "altright" movement. On the campaign trail, the president-elect had promised to keep Muslims from entering the United States. He later backed off from a complete ban, saying his proposal would keep immigrants from countries that have been "compromised by terrorism."

In his victory speech, Trump sent a conciliatory message, promising to be a "president for all Americans."

But the aftermath of the election is anything but conciliatory, as anti-Trump protests spread across the country while people from certain backgrounds report being harassed or threatened.

In a statement released Saturday afternoon, the university's public safety officials said they are "very

concerned and disturbed" by the alleged crime.

"Officers are conducting additional patrols in that area and the Ann Arbor police are actively investigating," according to the statement.

A similar incident occurred in Georgia, where a Muslim high school teacher said someone left an anonymous note in her classroom telling her that her "headscarf isn't allowed anymore.".

The note, scribbled in black ink, also told her to "tie" her headscarf around her neck and "hang yourself with it."

In Ohio, a Muslim woman, her children and her elderly parents were threatened by a man while they were stopped at a traffic light, according to the Ohio chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. The man allegedly approached the family's car, banged on the window and told the woman that she "doesn't belong in this country" while yelling obscenities and taking pictures of her children.

At the University of Pennsylvania, several black freshmen received racist messages - which included images of people hanging from trees and a "daily lynching" calendar - from a student from another school. (Agencies)

Afghan female teacher in former Taliban stronghold Kabul, Nov 15: Overcoming all traditional barriers, an Afghan female teacher goes to a school in a remote village in Kandahar province every morning to teach the children of the most unprivileged families.

Aisha, 36, goes to the dilapidated school building in the Spin Boldak district, a border town linking Kandahar province to Quetta city of Pakistan, Xinhua news agency reported.

"My sole aim of teaching children in the village school is to help the poor children get education and become literate, especially for girls who were traditionally kept away from school," Aisha said.

Working outside home for females in Kandahar, the spiritual capital of the former Taliban regime where people deeply believe in traditions, is regarded as taboo and a breach of family honour, but Aisha, a mother of eight, dared to start teaching children in her village school four years ago.

"My school has only one classroom with 32 students, including girls, who go to school six days a week," said the brave lady, whispering "due to tribal culture, most of the students have no interest in getting education and, therefore, I take them from their homes to school".

The ongoing conflict, domestic violence and tribal traditions and cultural barriers in parts of conservative Afghanistan often bar girls from attending school or getting higher education.

According to the Afghan government, more than 10 million children -- with 40 per cent of them girls -- attend 15,000 schools across the country while more

than 1.3 million school age children have no access to education due to poverty, conflicts, traditional obstacles and insurgency.

In Kandahar and neighbouring Helmand, Zabul and Uruzgan provinces where Talibanmilitants are active, many students are leaving school for fear of conflict and insecurity.

"Out of 470 schools in Kandahar, 150 have already closed down due to insurgent activities and conflicts," Mohibullah Qaderi, head of Kandahar's Education Department, said.

According to the official, no school is open in Shorabak, Rigistan and Ghorak districts due to security problems at the moment.

In Kandahar province alone, according to Qaderi, more than 100,000 school-age children have been deprived of their right to go to school.

"How can we attend school when around our villages and school is conflict, on the road are militants, and most of the families don't allow their children to bear the risk for study," Zarmina, 18, a female student, said in Lashkargah, capital city of the southern Helmand province where lingering fights between Taliban and government forces have claimed hundreds of lives over the past several months.

Kandahar and the neighbouring Helmand have been regarded as populous but troubled provinces in Afghanistan.

A few hundred girls complete the 12th grade of school annually and only a smaller number of them get a chance to enroll in universities. (IANS)

Sikh student shot dead

Famliy of Gurnoor Singh Nahal, who was a highschool student, says he was coming home from work when he was shot San Fransisco, Nov 15: A 17year-old Indian-origin Sikh boy has been shot dead when he was returning home from work, prompting police to launch an investigation. The incident took place last week at his home in his garage on Kandinsky Way in California.

Famliy of Gurnoor Singh Nahal, who was a high-school student, says he was coming home from work when he was shot. They do not suspect anything was taken and cannot understand why.

"We cannot imagine it. We are lost," his uncle Tejinderjit Singh was quoted as saying by the CBS Local News. Nahal's grandmother found him lying in the garage. She said he cried for help, but it was too late.

"She heard it and it was very loud and I think when she heard that, she came out and then she saw him," Singh said.

His neighbours say that things like this do not happen in their North Natomas neighbourhood.

"It was a young kid. We have kids to a 19-year-old and a 17year-old, so it's really sad," said a neighbour, Gil Garcia.

Gurnoor went to Inderkum High and was supposed to graduate this spring.

Police responded to the scene and investigated the area for hours asking witnesses for help. They have not determined a motive in this case, the report said. (Agencies)

New superparamagnetic crystals to manage future drug delivery Beijing, Nov 15: Researchers have developed new superparamagnetic crystals that could zip down drugs around your body, revolutionising drug delivery to tumours and other sites in the body that need to be targeted precisely.

In the past, this was thought to be impossible -- the crystals, which have special magnetic properties, were so small that scientists could not control their movement.

However, in the new study, a team of Chinese researchers developed a method of producing superparamagnetic crystals that are much larger than any that have been made before -a discovery which has opened new applications that could use these crystals to improve and perhaps even save many lives.

"These larger crystals are easier to control using external magnetic fields, and they will not aggregate when those fields are removed, which will make them much more useful in practical applications, including drug delivery," Kezheng Chen from Quingdou University of Science and Technology in Quingdou, China.

Further, Chen's crystals might, be useful in the many engineering projects that need "smart fluids" who change their properties when a magnetic field is applied.

They can also be used to build more comfortable and realistic prosthetic limbs, the researchers said, in the paper published in the journal Physics Letters A. (IANS)

DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16

P11

BUSINESS

India's income will go up by 27% with women participation: IMF

Rupee tumbles 42 paise against U.S. dollar

India's national income would increase by 27 per cent if the participation of women in the workforce matches the level of men, IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde has said.

Mumbai, Nov 15: India's national income would increase by 27 per cent if the participation of women in the workforce matches the level of men, IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde has said. Delivering a speech on "Women's Empowerment: An Economic Game Changer" in Los Angeles, 60-year-old Lagarde said equal pay and better economic opportunities for women boost economic growth and create a bigger pie for everyone to share. "Empowering women can be an economic game changer for any country.

For instance, if women were to participate in the labour force to the same extent as men, national income could increase by five per cent in the US, nine per cent in Japan, and 27 per cent in India," she said yesterday. Better op-

RBI sets rupee reference rate at 67.7173 against US dollar Mumbai, Nov 15: The Reserve Bank of India today fixed the reference rate of the rupee at 67.7173 against the US dollar and 72.7758 for the euro.

The corresponding rates were 67.0292 and 73.1155, last Friday.According to an RBI statement, the exchange rates for the pound and the yen against the rupee were 84.4232 and 62.61 per 100 yens, respectively, based on reference rates for the dollar and cross-currency quotes at noon. The SDR-rupee figure will be based on this rate, the statement added.

(PTI)

Demonetisation: Police grievance cells set up in Maharashtra Police are on their toes to prevent any law and order situation during exchanging of old notes in the state.

Mumbai, Nov 15: In the wake of the problems faced by citizens while exchanging demonetised currency, Maharashtra Police have set up grievance cells in every district and police commissioner offices. After the government's decision of scrapping Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes, citizens have been facing problems due to the cash crunch.

Police are on their toes to prevent any law and order situation during exchanging of old notes in the state.

Grievance cells have been set in every district at the office of Superintendent of Police and at the office of Commissioner of Police in cities, a senior police official said.

Nearly 46 grievance cells have been set up, including one at the state police headquarters, he said.

Police have issued contact numbers as well as WhatsApp numbers of every SP and CP office on which citizens will be able to complain about their grievance during exchanging currency at banks, ATM centres, petrol pumps and hospitals. Police will forward the complaints to authorities concerned, the official added. (PTI)

Tax reforms to help low-income families, which are disproportionately headed by women. portunities for women also promote diversity and reduce economic inequality around the world, she added. "To put it differently: if you discourage half the population from fully participating in the

labour market, you are essentially behaving like an airline pilot who shuts down half his engines in midflight. Sure, your plane will likely continue to fly, but it would be such a crazy thing

to do," Lagarde said. Noting that across the globe women were still facing a triple-disadvantage and are less likely than men to have a paid job, Lagarde said only half of the world's

working-age women were employed. "If they do find paid employment, it is more likely to be in the informal sector. And if they eventually get a job in the formal sector, they earn, on average, three-quarters as much as men even with the same level of education, and in the same occupation," she said. Lagarde said governments have a key role to play when it comes to economic incentives that provide women a fair shot in the labour market. "We need to promote affordable childcare, parental leave, and workplace flexibility.

We need to increase women's access to finance and remove legal barriers that still exist in most countries," she said. "We also need to push for smarter tax policies, including here in the US. Think of tax reforms to help low-income families, which are dispro-

portionately headed by women. And think of the benefits of reducing taxation on secondary earners in households, who are again mostly women," she added.

"So if you add up all things that can be done in each country, you get a powerful global impact. A global economic game changer," Lagarde said, adding that most important countries have understood the need for gender equality, including the G20 grouping that account for 85 per cent of the world GDP and two-thirds of its population. "These countries, including the US, have pledged to reduce the gap in women's labour force participation by 25 per cent by the year 2025 which would create an estimated 100 million more jobs by 2025.

This would be a huge impetus to growth and would reduce poverty and inequality," Lagarde said. (PTI)

Cash crunch: No respite from Vodafone loss doubles long queues at banks, ATMs to $5.5 billion due to India write-down

New Delhi, Nov 15: People in large numbers started queuing up outside ATMs and banks since early morning today to withdraw valid currency notes from vending machines and exchange demonetised bills.

While banks remained closed yesterday on account of Guru Nanak Jayanti in many parts of the country, cash-starved customers again were disappointed today with most of the ATMs running out of the cash.

Even at some ATMs which had cash were facing server issues, making people wait in the queue frustrated.

Many households are running out of even piggybank money saved by their children for meeting essential daily provisions.

Banks' infrastructure is unable to handle the huge rush resulting in long serpentine queue where average waiting time is 4 hours, especially for exchange.

ATMs will still take two more weeks before they start dispensing new high-value

Banks' infrastructure is unable to handle the huge rush resulting in long serpentine queue where average waiting time is 4 hours, especially for exchange Rs 500 and 2000 notes. Currently, they are dispensing Rs 100 notes which make them go dry in few hours.

With public anger rising across the country over limited cash availability, the government eased key restrictions, including raising daily withdrawal limit from bank counters and ATMs as well as hiking the amount of old and now defunct currency notes that can be exchanged.

The limit of old and now defunct Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes that can be exchanged for freshly minted Rs 2,000 and new Rs 500 notes was increased from Rs 4,000 to Rs 4,500 per day.

The weekly limit of R s 20,000 for withdrawal from bank counters has been increased to Rs 24,000. The maximum limit of Rs 10,000 per day on such withdrawals has been removed. (PTI)

Indelible ink to check syndicates: Govt on currency woes New Delhi, Nov 15: After a review meeting taken by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last night to discuss the situation, the government has set-up a high-powered group under the Cabinet Secretary to monitor supply of essential goods in the wake of disruption of trade due to shortage of currency notes.

Besides, a task force has been constituted to monitor circulation of fake currency notes in vulnerable areas and to keep a watch on black money being deposited in the system.

"It has come to notice of the government that in many places the same people are coming back again and again and we have also received reports that certain unscrupulous elements who are trying to convert black money into white have organised groups of innocent people and are sending them from one branch to another branch to exchange notes and get Rs 4500," Economic Affairs Secretary Shaktikanta Das told reporters.

"As a result what is happening is that the benefit of withdrawal of cash is getting restricted to smaller number of people...to prevent such kind of misuse, the branches of banks to take recourse to use of indelible ink marks for disbursement of cash," he said.

This would prevent certain syndicates and certain kind of

people coming to branch again and again, he said.

Das said the government is keeping a close watch on deposits in Jan Dhan account as in many cases such account are being misused for parking black money.

"Any legitimate deposit in Jan Dhan account, the person concerned would not be put to any inconvenience. I take this opportunity to appeal all the Jan Dhan account holders not to allow themselves to be used by other people for putting (illegitimate) money in their accounts," he said.

There are reports that many Jan Dhan accounts are getting deposit of Rs 49,000. The deposit limit of Jan Dhan account is Rs 50,000.

With regard to indelible ink mark, Das said the operational guidelines would be decided by the banks.

On augmenting delivery channels, Das said cash availability with the District Central Cooperative Banks (DCCBs) and 1.3 lakh post offices has been enhanced which should be able to meet the requirements of rural population.

Besides, the religious organisation or temple trust are encouraged to deposit smaller

denomination of notes which usually come to them, he said, adding that it will help increase supply of lower denomination currency into the market.

To promote electronic payments, he said, the government has decided to set up a technology team to popularise ewallet.

A task force has also been set up that will draw a plan of action for shifting of the old notes and storing of the old notes in other place so that banks and post offices continue to get new notes.

Asking people not to fall prey to rumours like shortage of salt and bankers going on strike, Das said the government will ensure adequate availability of cash as well as essential commodities.

"The supply of essential commodities is very closely monitored. The Cabinet Secretary is heading a group of secretaries and other senior official to monitor movement and supply of essential commodities across the country," Das said.

The Cabinet Secretary will also head a coordination group that will include senior representatives of the banks to monitors various decision taken by the government to ease currency availability in the market, he added. (PTI)

London, Nov 15: Vodafone said its loss after tax soared to 5.1 billion euros (USD 5.5 billion) in the six months to September 30, compared with a net loss of 2.5 billion euros one year earlier.

India's three big telecom players - Bharti Airtel, Vodafone and Idea Cellular - are being challenged by new entrant Reliance Jio Infocomm, backed by Reliance chief Mukesh Ambani.

"Competition in India has increased in the year, reducing revenue growth and profitability," Vodafone chief executive Vittorio Colao said in the results statement on Tuesday.

However, better than expected growth in Europe meant the world's second largest mobile phone operator reported earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation of 7.9 billion euros, beating a 7.8 billion euros consensus forecast.

"We have responded to this changing competitive environment by strengthening our data and voice commercial offers and by focusing our participation in the recent spectrum auction on acquiring frequencies in the more successful and profitable areas of the country," he said.

The firm said it had been hit by an impairment charge of 6.4 billion euros "in respect of the group's investment in India".

The London-headquartered major saw a 4.3 per cent rise in core earnings in the first half of the year, helped by improving trading in big European markets like Germany and Italy.

"We expect to sustain our underlying performance in the second half of the year and remain on track to meet our full-year objectives despite macroeconomic uncertainties," Colao said. (PTI)

Ratan Tata meets Arun Jaitley as boardroom battle rages with Cyrus Mistry New Delhi, Nov 15: Ratan Tata, back at the helm of India's biggest conglomerate, on Tuesday met Finance Minister Arun Jaitley as bitter boardroom battle continues to rage following the ouster of Tata Sons chairman Cyrus Mistry.

Tata, who reportedly wrote to Prime Minister Narendra Modi informing him about the changes at the over $100 billion group within hours of Tata Sons bringing him back in place of Mistry, met Jaitley for over 30 minutes.

The 78-year-old chieftain refused to comment on the discussion with Jaitley, who also heads the corporate affairs ministry.

Besides Jaitley, Tata is believed to have sought meeting with Prime Minister.

Mistry too had sought meetings with Modi and Jaitley.

The government has so far stayed clear of the row calling it an internal affair of Tata Sons.

Tata-Jaitley meeting comes amid escalation of feud between the Tata Grouppatriarch and his estranged successor.

On October 24, Mistry was abruptly removed as chairman of group holding company Tata Sons Ltd, less than

four years after he succeeded Ratan Tata triggering several rounds of allegations and counter allegations.

Mistry has said he was wrongfully terminated and alleged constant interference from his predecessor undermined his leadership, reducing him to a lame duck chairman.

Tata Sons on the other hand accused Mistry of being a poor leader who was seeking to wrest control of some of key units. The ousted chairman denied these allegations as unsubstantiated.

Though Mistry was sacked from the holding company, he retains chairmanship at key listed units. Tata Sons has removed him as chairman of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and has asked Tata Chemicals, Indian Hotels Co Ltd and Tata Motors to call extraordinary general meeting of its shareholders to remove Mistry from the board.

Independent directors at at least two of the companies Indian Hotels Co Ltd and Tata Chemicals have backed Mistry's leadership.

Tata Sons is also seeking to remove independent director Nusli Wadia, who is believed to be a force behind getting independent directors to back Mistry. (PTI)

Image for representation purpose Mumbai, Nov 15: The rupee was trading lower by 42 paise at 67.67 against the US dollar in early trade on Tuesday as the American currency strengthened overseas amid a lower opening of the domestic equity market.

Forex dealers said continued demand for the American unit from importers and the greenback's persistent gains against other Asian currencies since Donald Trump's unexpected win in the US presidential

election on November 8, putting pressure on the rupee.

On Friday, the rupee had lost 62 paise to end at over three-month low level of 67.25 against the American currency on fears of capital outflows amid resurgent dollar overseas.

Forex market remained closed yesterday on account of 'Guru Nanak Jayanti'.

Meanwhile, the benchmark BSE Sensex plunged by 344.27 points, or 1.28 per cent, to 26,474.55 in early trade on Tuesday. (PTI)

No change in foodgrain prices Chennai, Nov 15: Prices of all commodities remain unchanged for the fifth day today in the wholesale foodgrain market today.

Following are the wholesale rates of various agricommodities (rates in rupees per quintal, unless stated otherwise:

Thoor Dal Rs 15,600 Urad Dal Rs 15,100 Moong Dal Rs 10,300 Gram Dal Rs 6,500 Sugar Rs 3,000 Wheat Rs 3,000 Maida (90 kg) Rs 2,500 Sooji (90 kg) Rs 3,200.

A revolutionary step may have initial hiccups: Venkaiah Naidu New Delhi, Nov 15: Stressing that any shortage in supply of currency is being taken care of by the government, Union minister M Venkaiah Naidu today said that a revolutionary or transformative step may have initial hiccups, but it gives long-term gains.

He said the demonetisation of higher currency notes had to be implemented with all secrecy as otherwise the people would have "taken care of" their ill-gotten wealth.

"There is need for ending parallel economy. Our neighbour is hiding, abetting, funding and training terrorists. There is 20 lakh crore of rupees of counterfeit currency in India which is weakening our economy. There are also arm dealers, smugglers...," he said, addressing a legislators' workshop here on infrastructure in the states.

The move will also curb Maoist operations as they "thrive" on black money, he said, maintaining, "Nobody is going to give money to Maoist by cheque."

Referring to the hardships being faced by people with long queues outside banks and ATMs for withdrawing money, Naidu said, "Any revolutionary step or transformative step will have initial problems" and that "wherever there is shortage, it is being taken care of by the government."

He said if the government had given prior information about the scheme, then

people would have "taken care" of their ill-gotten money.

"If you had forewarned the people, you know what would have happened. Everybody would have taken care of it (black money)," he said.

On the delay in supply of notes, he said that it takes time to print currency and then supply it to various bank branches across the country.

"The printing of currency takes time. RBI has explained to us that the printing process takes 21 days and then transporting currency notes from the place of printing to local branches of banks takes time," he said.

Naidu said Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also asked the army to provide helicopters and whatever is required to airlift the money to the places witnessing shortage of notes, besides utilising banking correspondents as well as the services of post offices.

Noting that there are 82,000 bank branches in the country and 2 lakh ATMs, he said the ATMS have to recalibrated with weight, size and denomination which is "being done".

Naidu said that "ultimately" common man of the country will benefit from the move that will bring "more than Rs three lakh crore" to the government.

"Thereby interest rates will be reduced, prices will be reduced, spending on the poorer will also increase, fiscal deficit will come down considerably," he said.

(Agencies)

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DIBRUGARH, WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16

P12

Chennaiyin FC get back on their Assam take 245 runs feet against FC Pune City: 2 – 0 lead against Andhra Chennaiyin FC scored on both sides of the half-time whistle to secure a first win in four matches When they did, the forwards in the box were not ready for them and the attack just fizzled out on its own.

Two teams that have had

ments in the first half. In fact, Antonio Habas seemed to have won the tactical battle with Marco Materazzi in the first halfhour but tactics don’t matter when the players on the

Chennai, 15 Nov: Solidity at the back and a general discipline to structure was what pushed Chennaiyin FC to the title last season.

This has been something that was missing so far but today, that is exactly what they showed. It was clear that they came into the second half with a plan to extend their lead as early as possible. They did that through Davide Succi and then, they remained tight and made sure that FC Pune City found no cracks to exploit.

FC Pune City had their mo-

Momentum is exactly what Chennaiyin FC doesn’t have. They have not won a match since triumphing over NorthEast United in October and have had crushing defeats in their last two matches.

Jeje continued on his 100% scoring record against FC Pune City. field don’t deliver. The two wing backs could do not manage to get crosses into

the box and exploit the spaces left in the wide areas by the champions.

Golf

‘17th Servo Masters Golf’ commences in Digboi with 35 lakhs prize purse Laxman Sharma Digboi, 15 Nov: The 17th Indian Oil Servo Masters Golf 2016 will commence from 16th to 19th November 2016 here at the historic Digboi Golf Links being organized under the aegis of the professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) and hosted by AOD Digboi.

Addressing the media here at the office of the Golf Links, Sampath Chari, the Tournament Director PGTI told that the field boasts of some of India’s professionals such as Rolex Rankings former Champion Shamim Khan, Shankar Das (3 times champion) Mukesh Kumar (6 times Champion), Rookie Udayan Mane, Harendra Gupta and Om Prakash Chouhan, Amardip Sinh malik, Digvijay Singh, M Dharma and Anura rohana all being the multiple Winners on the PGTI. The field would feature a total 97 players including 93 professionals and four amateurs. The top fifty 50 players and ties would make a cut after round two.

Meanwhile, the local professionals in the field are Deben Bhumiz, Biren Karmakar, Bipon Mura and Jackson Naidu and Kishore Kumar Talukdar Both the amateurs in the field, Deep Raj Chetia and Zakir Hussain hail from Digboi.

Thanking the IOC AOD for partnering the PGTI in staging the much prestigious tournament beside keeping the prize purse of the tournament handsome at 35 lakhs ,Mr.Chari said “ The Indian Oil Servo Masters Golf, has over the years, played a pivotal role in promoting profes-

Pune City have had a slow start to the season but victories against Atletico de Kolkata and Mumbai City FC have given them some momentum coming into this match.

sional golf in the North Eastern region of the country. We look forward to a fascinating week of golf as the leading Indian professionals tee it up at the serene Digboi Golf Links.”

However, Mr. Bhagawati the General Manager (HR) AOD and Chairman of the organizing committee said that promotion of sports

by Indian Oil is aimed at providing opportunities for stable sports career. Highlighting the beauties of the landscape located amidst pristine location surrounded by lofty hills on its three sides, he added that the course was quite ready and the golfers would enjoy to the fullest making the event a memorable one besides promoting the sports cause of the organization. He added that to add a new feature to the tournament, the champion trophy has been designed locally employing local talents blended with local features and taste.

Meanwhile talking to the Eastern Today, a highly placed official at AOD told that the Indian Oil has been striving seriously and promoting the cause of various sports items including cricket, football, chess, badminton etc. on various fronts for different age groups to encourage the deserving talents and escalate them to the professional international arena to bring laurals for the Indian oil and nation as a whole.

Meanwhile, HS Dutta the General Manager (TS & HSE ) Indian Oil remarked' The 17th Edition of Indian Oil Servo Masters Golf Tournament in Digboi is a matter od pride for us and reiterates Indian Oil's commitment to the promotion of sports

in the country . Indian Oil id driven with zeal to care and serve for its communities in diverse ways and encouraging young sporting talent in Indian sports is a significant area of our association” Meanwhile, the top golfers of the PGTI Merit List are participating making it 97 players in all from different corners of the country including the international golfers from abroad like Australia is vying for the Mastership 2016 and with the prize purse of the tournament being 35 lakhs, more of the professionals are expected to find way into the tournament making it a finest episode ever played and tougher for the contenders. However, the prize money of the tournament includes 15 percent for the winner amounting to Rs 5,25000, 10 percent for the second amounting to Rs.3,50000 while 5.998 and 4.998 percentages for the third and the fourth position holder at Rs. 2,09930 and Rs. 1749300 respectively.

The tournament slated to be inaugurated on 16th morning would conclude with Pro- AM event slated on the 2oth November.

It may be added here that the venue, the picturesque Digboi Golf Links, is a golfer ’s delight. The course is a one of its kind in terms of ambience as it is situated among the lush tea estates and thick forest of eastern Assam. The historic Digboi Golf Links is bordered by the Dehing forest reserve on three sides and the magnificent Patkai range of mountains on the fourth. This 72 par course with a yardage of 6329 could also be termed as the best in the northeastern part of the country due to its magnificent layout.

contrasting fortunes in recent matches meet each other in Chennai today. FC

“We have good chances to make it to the qualifiers. Goa (placed at the bottom) is also hoping, (and) if they do, we can also hope to make it,” said Chennaiyin FC coach Marco Materazzi.

Sports Reporter Dibrugarh, Nov 15: Hosts Assam took a lead of 245 runs in the second day of their Cooch Behar Trophy under-19 Group A league fixture against Andhra Pradesh at Dibrugarh District Sports Association Stadium in Dibrugarh today.

Andhra Pradesh today were bowled out for 126 runs in 50 overs after resuming the day at 98/6. For them D G J Chaitanya scored 30 off 59 balls with the help of five boundaries. P Girinath Reddy chipped in with 23 runs while Maheep Kumar contributed 26 runs.

Assam seamers bowled in good areas and took wickets in regular intervals. Rahul Singh bagged five for 40 in 21 overs while seamer Mukhtar Hussian took three for 30.

Jitumoni Kalita and Hrishikesh Borah shared one wicket a piece.

In the second innings, Assam were 179/8 at stumps. Middle order bat Abhishek Thakuri was the top scorer for the side

Rahul Singh with a patient knock of 48 off 89 balls hitting eight boundaries. Openers Subham Mandal and Riyan Parag were out cheaply for 10 and 11 runs respectively. Captain Jitumoni Kalita contributed 23 off 60 balls(2x4). On day 3, Hrishikesh Borah and Mukhtar Hussain will resume the in-

nings who were unbeaten on 29 runs (2x4) and 16 runs (1x4) respectively.

Andhra seamer P Girinath Reddy scalped three for 31 in 16 overs while Maheep Kumar, Shaik Muddassir, S Ashish and Sandeep took one wicket each.

Local Sports

GSS Kiyit and UPS Romdum lifts the 1st ever AUPSLG & SM-16

Ajeetesh enters final qualifying stage of Japan Golf Tour PTI New Delhi, Nov 15: India's Ajeetesh Sandhu has advanced to the third qualifying stage of the Japan Golf Tour's Qualifying School for the 2017 season.

The 27-year-old Sandhu made it to the third stage after finishing ninth in the first event of the second qualifying stage played at the Tomioka Club in Gunma, Japan from August 30 to September 2.

Ajeetesh, currently second on the PGTI's Rolex Ranking, ended ninth at sevenunder-209 after shooting scores of 69, 70 and 70 at the Tomioka Club. The Chandigarh lad thus kept alive his hopes of earning

his card for the 2017 Japan Golf Tour season. The event featured a field of 106 players, out of which the top 38, made it to the next stage.

Ajeetesh, a winner on the

PGTI earlier this year, will now compete at the third stage, which will comprise of six events at different venues, scheduled to be held between October 25 and November 18 this year.

About 600 players are expected to participate in the third stage with about 100 players teeing it up at each of the six venues.

There are four stages in all.

The fourth and last stage is slated to be held from December 1 to 6, 2016.

Maksam Tayeng Pasighat, Nov 15: Playing in the final match of 1st ever Annual Upper Primary School Level Games & Sports Meet2016 at playground of Govt.

Sec. School, Kiyit Monday while involving entire Upper Primary Schools of Mebo SubDivision, the UPS Romdum beaten Kashturba Gandhi Balika Vidyalaya, Kiyit by 10 in girls category, while GSS Kiyit outscored Don Bosco, Mebo by 4-0 in boys category.

The all 4 goals of UPS section of GSS Kiyit came by four separate individual players, namely, Otil Darin at 29th minute, Sabbhish Modi at 46th minute, Gemin Tayeng at 51st minute and Super Pertin at 86th minute. While lone goal of girls football, UPS Romdum was scored by Miti Yommin in the middle of the second half. The best discipline team (boys) was awarded to UPS Borguli, while (girls) best discipline went to UPS Silluk. Individual awards like Best Player (boys) went to Gemin Tayeng (GSS Kiyit), best player (girls), Koko Daran (KGBV, Kiyit), best goalkeeper (boys) went to Tokgom Yirang, GSS Kiyit, best goalkeeper (girls) went to Mamta Pradhan of UPS, Romdum.

While golden boot (boys) was won by Maklek Mili of UPS Borguli with 9 goals and golden boot (girls) category was won

by Gebi Perme of UPS, Mebo with 5 goals.

The record set in the tournament was that, UPS Borguli got the distinction to score 14 goals in a match, while UPS Borguli’s Maklek Mili scored 8 goals in a match against UPS, Silluk.

And more interestingly, no team could score even a single goal against the winner team, UPS section of Govt. Sec. School, Kiyit in the entire tournament which is a record.

Speaking as a Chief Guest, in the football final, Addl. Dy. Commissioner, Mebo, Yemling Tayeng said that, young students need to re-divert their attention toward sports besides doing their studies as sports has today turn as good career option. He also appeals student community to shun bad habbits inclining toward illicit substances like drugs, Bhang, IMFL etc. While, Tamat Gamoh, President, District Olympic Association, East Siang, attending as Special Invitees along with District Football Association, President, General Jamoh, advised the students to be very discipline while pursuing the sports as their career. He specified that, discipline is the ‘Mul Mantra’ to success, without it, no one can stay long or succeed. As government has set sport quotas, students need to take up sports to earn medals or laurels for the state. While DFA President, General Jamoh has assured to give 4 pieces of football, 3 volleyball and nets.

While Lombo Tayeng, local MLA cum Advisor to HCM, who has personally taken keen interest to sponsor the tournament after being approached

by DDSE, East Siang, Jongge Yirang, has rededicated himself to improve the sports, literary and cultural activities along with the academic excellence across the students of Mebo area. Addressing the organizing committee of the AUPSLG & SM-16 at his residence, Motum village in a dinner party on the inaugural evening, Tayeng assured to earmark sufficient funds for revamping educational and its allied activities in his constituency for overall good of his area. He categorically said that, he feel ashamed of his colleagues when his areas are flashed in news for all bad reasons like drugs and other illicit substance menace. “I want my area to be seen as pioneering place and known for good things. As students are our future assets, I am ready to put aside Rs. 10-20 lakhs annually for revamping education in my area out of Rs. 2 crores MLA LAD. Now, instead of wasting funds to allocate MIC and other personal schemes to please or save vote banks, I will try to grand funds for education and its allied sector for brighter future of our students”, quoted Tayeng emotionally while appealing young & youthful committees to make coming year’s event bigger and outreached.

AIFF asks clubs to nominate footballers for U-17 World Cup trials IANS New Delhi, Nov 15: The All India Football Federation (AIFF) on Tuesday announced the organisation of three scouting camps under its director Abhishek Yadav in its quest to unearth talent ahead of the U17 football World Cup, to be hosted by India next year.

The AIFF has asked all the 55 clubs playing in the on-

going U-16 Youth League to nominate three players for camps where they would be further scrutinised for the present U-17 National Team.

Yadav, also the Chief Operating Officer of the U-17 World Cup, believes these three scouting programmes will help to find more talent who might eventually represent India.

"It gives us an opportunity

to see the three best Players of respective Teams playing in the League," he said, as per www.theaiff.com.

"With the advent of the U15 Youth League, we tapped on to more talents last year. Now this scouting programme will definitely churn out more talents ahead of the World Cup, which is less than 12 months away from now."

he said.

I-League CEO Sunando Dhar also sounded optimistic about the forthcoming scouting programme.

"We have already seen a jump in the numbers in participating teams this season. It rightly indicates the positivity amongst the clubs and academies towards grassroots development. Now this scouting

programme will further aid our U-17 World Cup campaign," he said.

Yadav said they will have a rigorous camp to unearth the best available talent.

"After having a look at the players we will zero down on the possible talent and if a particular player fits in, it will be a bonus."

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Editor: Prahlad Hammey

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