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7 BEST TRADITIONAL DRESSES TO WEAR THIS DIWALI

ASSENG/2015/64205

Vol. II

Issue 141

Dibrugarh, Friday, December 9, 2016

It's Monetisation, not Demonetisation

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CM Khandu turns “santa” Plans to implement 7th Central Pay Commission as New Year’s gift ET Bureau Itanagar, Dec 8

In a historic development, State Cabinet headed by Chief Minister Pema Khandu decided to give New Year gift to more than 70499 regular State Government employees and 25919 pensioners by implementing the 7th Central Pay Commission Recommendation. The 7 CPC will be implemented from 1st January 2017 and will add financial liability of Rs 423.27 Crore for 2016-17 to the state exchequer.The implementation will be effective from 1st January 2016 to 30th September 2016, and the arrears will be paid in next Financial Year. Secondly, effective 1st October 2016 to 31st March 2017, arrears will be paid during current Financial Year. Thirdly, arrears will be paid in cash in two installments – May 2017 and September 2017. Furthermore, for those employees who want to get their arrears deposited in GPF, they can do so and their share of arrears will be credited to their GPF account in this financial year only.

As a mark of respect to Deputy SP Late Bomto Kamdak for his selfless service to the state by sacrificing his valuable life in line of duty, the Cabinet decided and approved for awarding Deputy SP rank to Late Bomto Kamdak’s wife, Moyir Kamdak Basar on compassionate ground. Taking note of acute shortage of subject teachers particularly in Science and Mathematics in various schools which has jeopardized the education scenario, State Cabinet decided for one time relaxation in recruitment rules.

IMPLEMENTATIONS PROCESS From 1st January 2016 to 30th September 2016, arrears will be paid in next Financial Year.

From 1st October 2016 to 31st March 2017, it will be paid during current Financial Year 2017.

Arrears will be paid in cash in two installments – May 2017 and September 2017.

For those employees who want to get their arrears deposited in GPF can do so and their share of arrears will be credited in their GPF account in this financial year itself.

TEACHER APPOINTMENTS

HONOUR TO NABAM RUNGPHI Nabam Rungkhi, who was instrumental in establishing Itanagar as State Capital will be conferred with Gold Medal in the coming Statehood Day and a cash award. He shall be alloted a plot of land in the state capital.

Cabinet approved to relax the recruitment criteria from existing 90:10 ratios to 50:50 ratio basis for APST and Non-APST

Cabinet approved to relax the recruitment criteria from existing ratio of 90:10 to 50:50 ratio for APST and Non-APST in order to facilitate best of subject teachers from across the country. Cabinet approved to confer Gazetted status to Post Graduate Teachers (PGTs) under education department. We have total 701 PGT in the state. Nabam Rungkhi, who was instrumental in establishing Itanagar as State Capital will be conferred with Gold Medal in the coming Statehood Day and a cash award. He shall be

State Government Spokesperson Passang Dorjee Sona addressing a press conference on the few landmark cabinet decision made today.

DCM Chowna Mein warms up with Pre-Budget consultative meetings

ARMY RECRUITMENT RALLY

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Former CM Gogoi slams BJP

allotted a plot of land in the state capital. Cabinet has issued specific directives to concern department/district administration for allotment of a plot of land in the capital. The Cabinet has enhanced the cash awards to the Gallantry Awardees. The Param Vir Chakra awardees will get monetary benefits between Rs, 30 Lakhs – Rs. 50 lakhs; Ashok Chakra awardees will get monetary benefits between 25 lakhs - Rs. 30 lakhs; Kirti Chakra awardees will get monetary benefits between 20 lakhs to Rs. 30 lakhs; Vir Chakra awardees will get monetary benefits between Rs 15 lakhs to Rs. 20 lakhs; last but not the least, Shaurya Chakra awardees will get monetary benefits between Rs. 15 lakhs – Rs. 20 lakhs. There is a something to cheer about police as well as President’s Police Medal for Gallantry has been enhanced to- Rs. 2 Lakhs – 3 Lakhs; Sena/Nao Sena/Vayu sena Medal’s monetary benefits has been enhanced to Rs. 2 Lakhs – 3 Lakhs; while Police Medal’s monetary benefits has been enhanced to Rs. 1 Lakh – 2 Lakhs

Assam former CM Tarun Gogoi in a press meet at Jorhat on Thursday. Photo by Nekib Ahmed ET Correspondent Jorhat, Dec 8

Former Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, addressing a press meet said that BJP only makes promises. In his press meet held in Jorhat Press Club, the former CM was candid in his criticism against the BJP government over myriad of issues. Expressing his anguish over the manner in which NRC is working he said, “I will first discuss with our party and if they did not come with me I will appeal in the Supreme Court individually". He also mentioned that the Assam -Bangladesh border fencing and lighting works was almost completed under his Congress regime. Gogoi also

attacked the government for lack of apathy towards developmental works in Assam. The former Chief Minister alleged that the current Government makes hollow promises, devoid of any concrete developmental efforts or steps. "For example, during our regime, we had constructed 5000 bridges in the state, but in this two and half years’ time BJP ruled government did nothing,” blamed the former Chief Minister of Assam. Coming down heavily against demonetization, Gogoi termed it as a “move for gaining political benefits”. “Demonetization has only affected the common man," said Tarun Gogoi in the press meet.

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ET Bureau Itanagar, Dec 8 Deputy Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Chowna Mein who is also the Finance Minister convened five day long Pre-Budget consultative meetings with various government departments of the state beginning from today. On the first day of the meeting with some key departments, he called upon the heads of the departments for proposition of people friendly innovative projects/schemes to be

incorporated in the next budget. He urged upon them to conceptualize bigger projects and suggest new ideas for a paradigm shift from the presentation of traditional budget. asserted that there is no dearth of fund with the Government of India but the need of the hour is to know how to avail the opportunities with the proposition of realistic and innovative projects that could institute landmark development in the state. The first day of Pre-Budget consultative meeting was held

under CSS, SADA, NEC, NLCPR etc with the Departments of Art & Culture, IPR, Research, Sports & Youth Affairs, Women & Child Development, Election, Police, Cooperation, District Administration, Department of Karmik and Adhyatmik, Department of Tirap & Changlang and Law & Judicial. Commissioner of Finance & Development, Ashish Kundra, Secretary (Planning), Dr Joram Beda, Additional Secretary of Finance Y W Ringu, Secretaries and Directors attended the meeting.

249 qualify in PMT, PFT out of 1666 applicants ET Bureau Aalo, Dec 8

Out of the 1666 aspirants who participated in the Army Recruitment Rally across Arunachal, only 249 candidates managed to make it past the physical fitness test, premedical test and medical test held at 1 Bihar Regiment, Aalo.

At least 15 candidates who passed the all tests are also in the line only after removal of tattoos. The selected candidates will now have to sit for written examination to be conducted at Branch Recruiting Centre, Jorhat for final selection in the Indian Army.

Brahma in a mission to reduce elephants’ deaths due to collision with trains, endorses to use thermal sensors A Staff Reporter Guwahati, Dec 8

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Promising scientific action to the issue of deaths of elephants as a result of collision by trains in Assam, the Assam government today said that it is contemplating to use thermal

sensors along the railway tracks to detect the movement of elephants particularly during night. Addressing a press conference at Guwahati today, Assam environment and forest minister Pramila Rani Brahma today said that the Forest Department is also mulling to involve local people as well as

to strengthen the coordination with railway authorities to stop elephant fatalities. "It is a fact that the number of elephants are increasing in Assam and their habitations are reducing. According to the last elephant census in 2011, Assam has 5,620 elephants. Besides the state also see large number of

elephant migration from Meghalaya and Bhutan," she said. Citing that these are major problems in the state, Brahma said that all these factors have reduced the elephant habitats in the state, forcing the animals to often come out from forests to be either engaging in conflict with humans or to get killed

by speeding trains on tracks. The state had lost a total of seven elephants till date since May this year after being hit by speeding trains. Apart from this, two elephants were killed by poisoning and one by poachers.

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Finance Minister convened five day long Pre-Budget consultative meetings with various government departments of the state

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DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9

Aries Money matters look uncertain and a bit deceptive, Aries. This isn't a good day to enter into any kind of investment program, negotiate salaries or commissions, or change banks. Your dreams may be a bit disturbing, but this likely reflects fears from the past rather than dangers in the future. Write them down, however. You may learn a lot about yourself by studying the symbols.

EAST ARUNACHAL P2 50-Miao Mandal Level House gutted in General Meeting held fire in Diyun at Kharsang

Taurus

The general meeting was orchestrated by G. Singpho and the main motto of the meeting was to strengthen and unite the grassroots fabric of the saffron party. During the meeting, the convenor opined that under the able leadership of Narendra Modi, India is striving forward who is taking all necessary steps to upgrade the status of the Nation in all fronts.

New people may come into your life today. If you get bad vibes from one of them, trust your instincts! Signs are that you will meet at least one new acquaintance who isn't trustworthy. This isn't a good day to enter into any kind of partnership, nor is it a good day to get married or even propose marriage. Put all plans for cementing partnerships on hold for a few days!

Gemini You might wake up feeling a little under the weather, perhaps too tired to go anywhere, and you'll want to stay in. Perhaps this is the best course of action for today. You may be tired and a bit stressed out, Gemini, and more vulnerable than usual to any bugs may be going around at this time. Drink lots of juices and get some rest. Tomorrow you will probably feel much better.

Cancer Today you might get the feeling that someone in your family is hiding something. The atmosphere might be strained and somewhat tense. Your natural inclination is to try to spread oil on troubled waters to return the situation to normal, Cancer, but this isn't likely to be the right course of action here. Let things ride. Whoever is hiding something isn't likely to reveal it.

Leo Gossip you hear today might make you angry. You're likely to sense it isn't true. Take nothing at face value today. Check the facts before making any judgments. Discontent is in the air, Leo, and when people are disgruntled, they tend to say things they don't mean. Avoid the temptation to be confrontational. It will only make things worse. Try to spend some time alone if you can.

Virgo There is more than meets the eye to a money situation today, Virgo. There could be errors in your financial records, or someone may not be telling the truth about an important item. You're a caring, trusting person, but this isn't the day to blindly accept anyone's statements. Check the facts and see for yourself, then act accordingly in order to see to your own best interests.

Libra Today, Libra, you probably aren't going to feel very friendly. You're most likely to want to sequester yourself at home and not see or speak to anyone. If your need for solitude is that strong, indulge it. You won't do yourself any good by forcing contact with others. You might feel a little out of sorts physically, so it's especially important to eat right and get lots of vitamin C.

Scorpio Self-control is the word for today, Scorpio. Others' unethical behavior could trigger some long-buried anger that might make you want to lash out at those responsible. This won't solve anything. The best way to handle these rather explosive emotions is honest communication, but today it could deteriorate into arguments. Try counting to ten before confronting anyone. It works!

Sagittarius Anger and resentment caused by past hurts could come up today, at times tempting you to burst into tears. Don't fight it. Just find someplace where you can be alone and let it out. This is only a symptom of personal and spiritual growth on your part. Releasing the past clears the way for breakthroughs in the future. You could wake up tomorrow morning feeling like a changed person!

ET Bureau Kharsang Dec 8: 50-Miao Mandal Level General Meeting was held at Kharsang Committee hall on 8th Dec 2016 under the chairmanship of the senior most party leader Samchom Ngemu. The main agenda of the meeting was to update the party activities of the saffron party. All the office bearers of the party gave their introduction before the house. The welcome address was made by Tangkam Langching, who is the vice president of Maha sampark. The National Council member S.Ngemu, district BJP president Ngilang Tangha, council member Chomjong Hadley, state council member Tikshal Morang, Dist. General Secretary Gumjanong Singpho, District Mandal president Hunpong Tangha besides Yuva Morcha president, Mathew khilak and Yuva Vice President Hatman Longri were present in the meeting.

He further stated that the government of Arunachal Pradesh is running a parallel government with the PPA party in the state which means that the BJP party is an equal stake holder in the whole machinery in the state. He further reiterated that Yuva, Mahila as well as the top level leaders should work in tandem putting all energy to make a party vibrant and victorious in the upcoming election that is due on 2019. He was of the opinion that being a resourceful constituency, the present incumbent could not have a way for engagement of unemployed youths of the constituency in any sectors in spite of opportunities available, needless to say, the youths are seen being drags into drugs cobweb day by day due to idleness. We must elect a people leader in the days to come so that the grim status of the posterity is uplifted. Further, the house has adopted a resolution to visit the grassroots members in the villages to collect a mass referendum for future torch bearer. The district BJP, President Ngilang Tangha also spoke in the meeting and highlighted the achievement of the party till date and as to how the party has been gaining momentum since its constitution in the district. Alongside, Hatman Longri, who is a present Vice President of BJP Yuva Morcha also spoke in length about the hardship the future generations has been facing for earning livelihoods in absent of government Job opportunities and how the farming sectors had been badly affected at the backdrop of developmental crunch.

Farmer’s clubs awareness at Roing by AMYAA ET Bureau Roing, 8 Dec: Under the Aegis of AMYAA NGO based at Roing, a day Orientation Programme for the 4 (four) newly promoted Farmer’s Clubs of Lower Dibang Valley District was held at AMYAA NGO training Hall today. These Farmers’ Clubs are being promoted by AMYAA NGO through the supported of NABARD RO, Itanagar. The Orientation Programme was attended by 36 farmers from four Farmers’ Clubs of Kangkong, Jimmy, Balek and Bomi Villages. R. K. Paul Chawang, Secretary made a powerpoint presentation highlighting the background of the launch of farmers club by NABARD in 1982 as well as explained the five principles of “Development through credit”. Through the presentation he spoke on the Farmers’ Club role and responsibility, new and emerging role, functions & initiatives, sustainability and NABARD’s financial

ET Bureau Diyun, 8 Dec: Dwelling house bearing house No. E166 situated at JyotsnapurII under Diyun Circle in Changlang District of Arunachal Pradesh turned was gutted in a fire accident today at around 08:30 a.m in the morning. The house belongs to one identified as Josu Chakma (35). "Though, there was no one in the house during the fire accident and hence no one

is hurt but my properties in the house have been gutted in the fire. The cause of the fire is unknown to us as our children were away in school and we were also in the farm at Mudoi", said Josu Chakma (35) the owner of the house. The properties lost in the fire accident include brand new CIG sheet 8 bundles, house construction wood of 240 cft kept to build new house. Apart from construction

Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Maitritya Abhiyan launched at Tirap District

ET Bureau Khonsa, 8 Dec: Tirap District DMO Dr. Neeba Lowang informed that Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan will be officially launched on Friday, 9th Dec at Tirap District. He have presented the details of the abhiyan through a power point presentation at the District Coordination committee meeting on Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan held today at Late Kamlesh Joshi, IAS Conference Hall at Khonsa under the Chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner I /c. Techu Aran. Power point presentation em-

phasized on the efforts and measures to be taken to improve the maternal health care system in the district through this programme and also to detect High Risk and ANC so as to improve the health care pregnant women. Deputy Director, ICDS Smti Aryoma Lowangcha suggested for line listing of pregnant women at village level. All the members took active part during the open discussion in the interactive session. Deputy Commissioner Incharge Techu Aran said that maximum benefit for

Aquarius Something underhanded is going on, Aquarius. Unethical people could be trying to manipulate certain situations in order to turn them to their own benefit. Be careful! Steer clear of any "political" conversations, and refrain from commenting on any situation or listening to gossip. On the positive side, your intuition is sharp, so you should be able to sense the trustworthy.

Pisces If you've been thinking about executing legal papers of any kind, Pisces, this isn't the day to do it. Any contract entered into today is likely to have confusing clauses and obscure language that you may not understand and that potentially could be used against you. This also isn't the day to start or even plan a journey of any kind. However, it's a great day for reading or meditation.

women’s health with full coordination from all stakeholders is expected for the grant success of the program adding that pregnant women of Rural area must be covered in order to ensure cent percent implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Matritva Abhiyan in the district. The meeting was attended by DD (ICDS), CDPO, Medical Superintendent, DANO, PO/ DVBDCP, Medical officers, District Programme Manager, NCD, IDSP and NHM staff. The meeting concluded with a vote of thanks by the DPM, NHM.

Jairampur battalion of Assam Rifles hands over a toilet block to girls of Govt Higher Secondary School, Vijaynagar

RK Paul Chawang, Secretary of AAMYA promoting through a power point presentation support to Farmers’ Clubs. Joseph Pertin, Chief Coordinator and Shri Okep Perme, Associate Coordinator from ParbukBolik Farmers’ Club gave demonstrative input session on record maintenance such as Meeting register, cash book entry, membership register and maintenance of Voucher File.

The farmers were also given information on the available Central sponsored schemes through NABARD for the financial year 2016-17 by the Secretary of AMYAA. The participating farmers expressed their enthusiasm and interest in working together for the greater cause of the farmers in the District.

Pranjal Bhuyan Jairampur, Dec 8: JairampurBn Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ DGAR, handed over a toilet block constructed for Girls atGovt Higher Secondary School, Vijaynagar, under Military Civic Action programmefor FY 2016-17on 07 Dec 2016. Speaking on the occasion, Commandant Jairampur Battalion of Assam Rifles asserted that the Jairampur Battalionis

committed towards overall development of Vijaynagar and is making all efforts for the development of one of the remotestcorner of India. The people of Vijaynagarand students of school expressed their gratitude for this kind gesture and mentioned that construction of Girls Toilet Block at Govt Higher Secondary Schoolhas substantially reduced the hardships being faced

by the girls of the school. Commandant, Jairampur Battalion added that the people should come forward and extend co-operation and work hand in hand to achieve peace and over all development of the region thereby achieving normalcy and progress. This effort reaches out to the masses and brings the motto “Friends of the Hill People” to the forte.

Cinema

Capricorn Someone you think of as a friend may prove less than trustworthy today, Capricorn. There are indications of deception all around you. Perhaps someone is keeping something from you or telling outright lies. Don't be too suspicious of anyone, but check the facts of a situation before you take someone's word for anything. It's always best to do that anyway.

materials, all other household goods have been burnt down to ashes which include utensils, clothes, battery, solar plate and even more than 15 Areca Nut plants are also been affected by the flame. “We have also lost 5 AADHAR Cards of our family members in the fire,” said Josu Chakma. The exact cause and the extent of damage could not be ascertained till the filing of this report.

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DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9

Pema Khandu chairs State Consumer Protection Council meeting ET Bureau Itanagar, Dec 8 : Chief Minister Pema Khandu today chaired the 20th meeting of the Arunachal Pradesh State Consumer Protection Council (APSCPC) organised by the Department of Legal Metrology & Consumer Affairs. During the meeting, the APSCPC discussed measures to protect and promote the consumers rights as enshrined in the Consumer Protection Act (CPA). It also discussed on various initiatives being planned by the department for creating mass awareness about the consumer protection activities in the state. Earlier opening the discussion, the Chief Minister observed that Arunachal being a hilly state with difficult terrain and landscape, it becomes difficult for the government to facilitate the departments with sufficient manpower and other facilities, necessary to carry out consumer protection activities. He, however, assured that during his tenure the state government will definitely try to meet up all the shortages the department is facing. The Chief Minister suggested the department that

ness to be first generated among the council members through regular sittings, thereafter which they would be wellequipped to generate awareness to the masses.

in trying to disseminate information on CPA to the public, they must target the students, panchayat and women so that the information on consumer awareness reaches to the masses. Also speaking on the occasion, member council and Parliamentary Secretary for Planning Zingnu Namchoom called for proper policy mechanism to check vegetables and other grocery items for adultery observing that the vegetables available in the market are injected with toxic chemicals to make them look fresh. Appreciating the government’s move to introduce prepaid meter system for electricity, he suggested

the department to carry out awareness at district level for people to install the machine. The Parliamentary Secretary also suggested the department to generate awareness on health insurance schemes and generate awareness on it. Earlier participating in the discussion, Member Secretary, LM&CA Jokey Angu informed that it is difficult to get qualified people as member of the council at district level due to which the importance of consumerism could not percolate to the masses. He suggested that honorarium per sitting of the council members be enhanced since it has not been hiked after its formation. Angu also requested

that lab testing facilities for consumers be also set up in each district. Director of Health Services, Dr Moji Jini emphasized that drug testing facilities be set up to check the widespread of spurious drugs being marketed informing that North East has become a dumping ground of such fake drugs. He informed that the centre has made available Rs 9.6 crore for food testing laboratory and Rs 6 crore for manpower fulfilling manpower requirement in those facilities. President of Arunachal Pradesh Chamber of Commerce & Industries, Techi Lala stressed on aware-

Appreciating the discussion as fruitful, the Chief Minister asked the department to initiate a note mentioning all the requirements of the department, which he assured to take it up on top-down approach so that no submission gets pending at the lower level. He also assured to fulfil all financial, manpower and vehicular requirement of the department. Further the CM asked the department to conduct regular sitting so that work progress and departmental requirements can be monitored easily. The discussion was also participated by Dilip Siram, BSNL General Manager, Pallab Chakraborty, Director, Doordarshan Kendra, Itanagar, Hoktum Ori, Controller (L&M), Taru Talo, Director (Industries), L Borang, Director (Food & Civil Supplies), Pallab Dey, Director (Planning), Dipti Bengia, Social Worker, Goken Bam, GHRO Chairman and Mihin Kani, Principal, GHSS, Naharlagun.

RSS refutes allegation of conversion in Arunachal Staff Reporter Itanagar, Dec 8 : Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) Prant Karyavah, Nido Sakter today refuted allegations that the RSS is attempting to convert the followers of indigenous faith of Arunachal Pradesh. Addressing reporters in a press conference today, Sakter said that the RSS is in not influencing traditional tribal practises, but only providing logistical support to followers of indigenous faith in the state. “The RSS does not believe in conversion. We respect the practises of the indigenous people and we are only their well wishers,” he

added Also evading questions on whether the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) is based on Hindutva ideologies, RSS Prant Karyavah, Nido Sakter said

GSU team inspects Hydel project, terms the progress as “nonfunctioning” ET Bureau Itanagar,, Dec 8: Following the controversy surrounding the inauguration of Liromoba MHS project at Ligo on 3rd December 2016, a joint team of Galo Students Union (GSU) led by its President Shri Binya Ronya and LCWA (Liromoba Circle Welfare Association) led by its President Adv. Marlo Romin along with senior citizens of the area carried out joint inspection of the said Hydel project. On close inspection and proper interaction with the on-duty officials present at the project site, the team found the project to be in non-functioning state since the very next day of its inauguration. The number one turbine engine is totally out of order. The operator cum in-charge of the project J.N.Das informed the visiting team about the pathetic condition of the machineries installed and further quoted that “Purana Biwi ko naya frock pehnane se aur lipstick lagwane se wo kabhi naya nahi ho jata hai". Later in the day, when the GSU president paid a courtesy visit to the local populace in the area, many of them have expressed their dismay

Television producer Siddharth Kak to produce series of short films on Arunachal Pradesh

over the non-functioning of the project even after its recent inauguration. It was also learnt that initially many had expressed their opposition to the inauguration of the project without proper functioning of required machineries but after initiative of the local MLA and his workers, many had given their consent. Even long before inauguration, the GSU had stated vide its Press Release dated 16th Nov 2016 that in case the project fails to run after its inauguration, the local MLA N.karbak and the Department concerned would have to take sole responsibility. Further, today after telephonic conversation with senior citizens in Liromoba, it is learnt that turbine no.2 of the hydel is also not functioning causing the power officials to manage electricity for Liromoba circle from NEEPCO. Therefore, the undersigned on behalf of the GSU would like to strongly condemn the negligent act of the local Mla and the Department of Hydropower. Further, they should take entire responsibility for non-functioning of the Liromoba MHS and should ensure proper functioning of the project by March 2017.

that the RSS is not a religious organization and affirmed that it works towards nation building. Meanwhile, the RSS is also holding an Arun Chetana Sammelan on December 11

at Indira Gandhi Park, Itanagar, where close to 10, 000 people are expected to arrive, Including several religious heads and political organizations The sammelan organizing committee president Taba Tedir informed that RSS Chief Dr Mohan Bhagwat will be on a three-day visit to the state from December 10 to 12 and will address the Arun Chetana Sammelan. During his visit, the RSS chief will hold a series of meetings with RSS functionaries of all North Eastern states, and also dedicate the newly constructed office of Arunachal Pradesh Charitable Trust at Lekhi

village. Tedir informed that the purpose of Dr Bhagwat’s visit to the state is to spread the message of brotherhood and unity, and to advocate the ideology of duty toward Bharat (India). Citing the importance of Arunachal Pradesh to the RSS as it shares its borders with several countries, RSS Prant Karyavah, Sakter added that the RSS chief holds a meeting every three years with zonal functionaries, and this is part of the routine process. “It is an opportunity to learn about the ideologies of the RSS and clarify doubts, if any, about the workings of the sangh”, Sakter added.

Nyishi Art & Cultural festival from Dec 16 Staff Reporter Itanagar, Dec 8 : The Nyishi Art & Culture Welfare Society (NACWS) today informed that it is organizing the second edition of the Nyishi Art & Cultural Festival (NACF)-2016 cum third general conference of NACWS from December 16 to 18 next. Held every three years, the NACF this year will have community members from six Nyishi-inhabited districts participate in an interdistrict cultural competition on folk dance and war dance of the Nyishis to showcase the traditional art

and culture in the form of folklore, folk songs and music. Traditional games and sports like apuk abranam (archery) and dejuk jugrana (long jump) and other such sports events will also be held on the occasion to preserve and promote traditional practises. Addressing reporters, festival organizing chairman Ashok Sonam Tajo informed that they will also hold a symposium on ‘Nyishi Dialect, its Status in School and Home’ to create awareness on the

importance of tribal culture among the masses. Keeping in tandem with the first edition of the festival, the committee will also host the Nyishi Film Festival and Award function on the sidelines of the NACF. Films in any local dialect are eligible for entry, provided it has Nyishi technicians and artists in the film. Also, the NACWS will felicitate an artist from its community by conferring the 2nd NACSW Lifetime Achievement Award and an upcoming artist with the New Talent Award.

ET Bureau Itanagar, 8 Dec: Documentary maker, television producer and presenter, best known as the producer and presenter of Surabhi (1993– 2001) aired by DDK, Siddharth Kak called on Chief Minister Pema Khandu here this morning. Kak informed the Chief Minister that he will be producing a series of short films on Arunachal Pradesh to be aired on DDK National, shooting of which is slated to begin by January first week next year. “In fact DDK has proposed to air a documentary every week for one year on all the North Eastern states basically focussing on skill development and entrepreneurship,” he said. Visiting Arunachal Pradesh for the first time, Kak acknowledged the huge potential of the state with regard to entrepreneurship in

varied fields. He sought advice from the Chief Minister on important sectors that can be highlighted in his short films on Arunachal Pradesh.

people of the state are highly creative and this quotient needs to be tapped and showcased so that opportunities can flow in for them.

Welcoming the ‘Mano Ya Na Mano’ producer, who is also an actor, Khandu assured assistance and cooperation to the unit that will come for the shoot. He requested Kak to focus and highlight the tourism potential of the state, which is going to be the major gamechanger in the future economy of the state.

When Kak informed that the episodes will also include reality shows, Khandu expressed confidence that entrepreneurs and achievers of the state would actively participate in all the categories proposed.

Informing of the various sectors the ‘films’ can focus on, the Chief Minister cited horticulture, games and sports, art and artefacts, fashion, etc in which people of the state have excelled and have potentials for more accomplishments. He, however, emphasized on highlighting the ‘Creative Quotient’ (CQ) of the youths while informing that

The reality shows, as told by Kak, would facilitate healthy competitions among entrepreneurs and achievers in different fields from across the North Eastern states. At the end of the show winners will be declared and prizes given. The short films are expected to be aired on DDK National by mid-January next year every Sunday and will run through the year. SubuTabin, Director, Skill Development, also accompanied Kak.

Seminar on Occupational Hazards risks held at Naharlagun ET Bureau Naharlagun, 8 Dec: The first ever one day seminar was organized by Tomo Riba Institute of Health and Medical Science, Naharlagun at the conference, New Block on “Occupational Health Hazards Risks and Perils on Health Care Industry” sponsored by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) New Delhi. While addressing the gathering Nursing Students of various Nursing School of Capital Complex, Hento Karga (EAC), Naharlagun who was attending as a Chief Guest, he said nurses are chosen by god and give their service to humanity as responsibility nurse. Emphasing on the importance of the seminar Karga said to students be patience while they are imparting a training by resource persons especially from ICMR , Delhi and take advantage a knowledge given by them and give a quality service to the patients as a responsible nurse and teach their neighbors to keep clean their surroundings to prevent any health hazards, he added. He also said that be take careful while look af-

ter and serving their patient and themselves otherwise their simple false may lead their patient life in perils. Nurses are being faced pathetic condition in terms of salary and other facilities, however, they should proud themselves as responsible nurse as their services have been recognized globally, Karga added. Speaking on the occasion as Guest of Honour Dr. R. Doye (Jt. DME) said, nursing is like other s profession is as doctor, engineers beaurocrats etc. so “ be proud” yourself as responsible nurse and do not diluted to money what knowledge they have gained in workshop. Further, he asked the students to maintain their dress code, behavior and care their patients as like their parents”. Doye also said be learned many things from such seminar and go back to their institutions and give a valuable service to the people. He also said do not become a individualistic instead become a quality nurse. He adding that so long they are alive their service will be required by the people and adopt the philo-

sophical of Mother Teresa who was known by in this world as Florence Night angle. He also advice the student that while serving their patients alongwiths they should also care on themselves. Over viewing on “Occupational Hazards in Health” Mrs Radha Saini From ICMR, Delhi who is also resource persons said that live cleanliness and avoid use of drugs and consumptions of drugs leads once life in period, she also asked the students to give attentive in the workshop and asked them to get a benefit from resource persons. Further she said that so long they have not knowledgeable and skillful their professions then they cannot give good service to their patients. Saini also advised the students that treat their patients as like their parents and give love to the patients and maintain professional ethics. During the inaugural programme Mrs. Kenjum Karga (Registrar) APNC – cum- Organizing Secretary, ICMR and Principals of various nursing schools of capital complex were presents.

Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Martitva Abhiyan launches at Ziro ET Bureau Ziro, Dec 8 : The Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Martitva Abhiyan (PMSMA) was launched today by Deputy Commissioner Kemo Lollen in the conference hall of General Hospital, Ziro. Addressing the gathering, Lollen said that the healthier the mother is, the healthier the child will be. “As every pregnancy is special, every pregnant

woman must receive care”, he said. Reiterating the important role of ASHAs and trained health service providers, he said that they have to focus their efforts to reach out to pregnant women and guide them. Terming the abhiyan innovative, DMO Dr Tage Kanno called for unified efforts from all stakeholders to make the programme a

success. He appealed to all clinics and private practitioners to volunteer their services on the 9th of every month for the noble abhiyan. DRCHO Dr Derin Likar presented a PowerPoint on Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) and informed that it has been introduced to ensure quality antenatal care to over three crore pregnant women in the

country. Under this campaign, a minimum package of antenatal care services would be provided to the beneficiaries on the 9th day of every month at the PMSMA clinics to ensure that every pregnant woman receives at least one check up in the second or third trimester of pregnancy by a doctor. If the 9th day of the month is a Sunday or a holiday,

then the clinic should be organized on the next working day. He also informed that even with improved access to maternal health care services, MMR still remains high at 167/100000 live births. Therefore timely detection of risk factors during pregnancy and childbirth can prevent deaths due to preventable causes. In phase-I, General Hospital, Ziro will be the designated clinic and free ante-

natal checkups will begin from this month, he further added. Gynocologist Dr Michi Tajang briefed about the logistic facilities available in General Hospital, Ziro and assured to put in extra efforts for the first day of the PMSMA. The launch programme was attended by Dr K Horming, MS General Hospital, doctors, nurses and health workers.

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9

Governor to visit Lakhimpur and Dhemaji on Dec 11 and 12 ET Correspondent Lakhimpur; Dec 8: Banuwari Lal Puruhit, the Governor of Assam is visiting Lakhimpur and Dhemaji Districts on December 11 and 12 with a two-day long program. He will arrive at Lilabari Airport of Lakhimpur at 9am on 11 and then take part in a Swach Bharat Abhiyan program at Lakhimpur Girls' Higher Secondary School. Then he will participate in a meeting with all Heads of the Departments of Lakhimpur District at the Conference Hall of the DC Office at 9.30am. At 10am, he will have a meet with the Public representatives of the district. He will depart to Dhemaji on that day and spend the night at the Lakhimpur Circuit House returning from Dhemaji. He will leave Lakhimpur next day.

North Lakhimpur Press Club organises voluntary Blood Donation Camp ET Correspondent Lakhimpur; Dec 8: North Lakhimpur Press Club, the common platform of the journalists of the Lakhimpur district head-quarter, organised a voluntary Blood Donation Camp in its office premises today. A total of 16 persons representing various organisations of the district, voluntarily donated blood in the camp and made it a grand success. The camp was inaugurated by Dr. Ruhini Borah, the Pathologist of North Lakhimpur Civil Hospital(NLCH), in a formal meeting held at 11am. Surajit Bhuyan, the ExPresident of Lakhimpur District Journalist Association; Champak Baruah, the Counsellor of the NLCH Blood Bank and the members of the Club took part in the program which was anchored by Vice President Jibon Goswami. Shyam Sunder Taporia, the President of Lakhimpur District Maheswari Yuba Sangathan(MYS) delivered a brief lecture on the noble work of blood donation. It is to be noted that the members of MYS, AASU, AJYCP, Astha NGO and other individuals voluntarily donated blood in the camp. On the other hand, Laboratory Technician kalyan Gogoi, ANM Golapi Doley of NLCH besides the members of the Club extended their solemn services in order to make the camp a grand success.

1st Elite Men's National Boxing Championship kicks off at Guwahati A Staff Reporter Guwahati, 8 Dec: 1st Elite (Senior) Men’s National Boxing Championship has got off to a colour start at Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium, Sorusojai in Guwahati today. Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal while inaugurating the Championship appreciated Boxing Federation of India (BFI) and Assam Amateur Boxing Association (ABA) for holding this mega sports event in the state and said that the Championship would boost Government’s effort to make Assam as the Sports Capital of the country. Chief Minister Sonowal also said that during 2017 several other mega sports events will be played in Assam. “State Government

"We have taken the matter seriously. We cannot let this happen again and again. Our department is mulling over a host of measures to reduce incidents of elephants’ death as well as human elephant conflicts," she said. "We are also going to sit with the Railway Department so that we are in a position to strictly implement the minimum speed of trains while crossing elephant corridors," she said adding that antidepredation squads have

destination of India”, Chief Minister Sonowal said.

Assam Chief Minister inaugurated the National Boxing Championship on Thursday at Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium, Guwahati will host the Himalayan Sports Festival in 2017 where 11 states of the country and several Himalayan

nations will take part. Assam is also an important venue of the Under 17 FIFA World Cup Football Tour-

nament which will be played next year. These events will bolster Assam’s image as emerging sports

Stating that India is a rising star in world sports especially individual sports like Boxing, the Chief Minister commented that Boxers from North East like Mary Com, Sarita Devi and Shiva Thapa have made the nation proud by bringing laurels in international sports events. “If talent is properly harnessed, North East can produce more acclaimed sportspersons who can lead the nation in the field of sports at world events”, Sonowal said. Recalling his days as Union Sports Minister which helped him to understand the Sports mechanism of the country and develop close bonding with top

sportspersons of India, Sonowal said that successful sportspersons help in building the image of the country by showcasing their sportsmanship spirit and promoting social and cultural values. Further Sonowal said that the elite boxing championship would immensely help the upcoming Boxers of the state and motivate young generation to take up Boxing as a career. The Chief Minister also advised the Boxers participating in the championship to develop their skills and foster brotherhood through this event. The BFI President Ajay Singh delivering his speech lauded the State Government’s support in successfully holding the

Boxing Championship and said that the Boxing Federation would make best efforts to hold 2020 Olympic Qualifying Matches in Guwahati. He also said that a Franchise Team from Assam will also participate in the proposed Boxing League. The inaugural ceremony was marked by colourful Sattriya and Bihu Dance performance which enthralled the Boxers and the audience. State Sports Minister Naba Kumar Doley, Chief Secretary Vinod Kumar Pipersenia, Commissioner & Secretary (Sports) PK Tiwari, BFI Secretary General Joy Kohli, ABA President Kalikanta Bora were present amongst others in the inaugural programme.

Guwahati High Court orders Sonitpur Mismanagement in District Administration to demolish historic Mahabhairab illegal construction in Tezpur Idgah Temple dampens visitors

Shambhu Boro, Tezpur, Dec 8: The bench of two justices of Guwahati High Court Chief Justice Ajit Singh and Justice Kalyan Rai Surana in a verdict against a PIL filed by Advocate Nilakshya Sarma of Tezpur Court seeking intervention of the Guwahati High Court in the illegal construction of many business sheds in the Tezpur Idgah area located at the heart of the Tezpur, has ordered the Tezpur Iddgah Committee to demolish all the said construction making the religious area free from all sort of encroachments. The court order says that during inquiry it is known that the Iddgah field situation at Tezpur town as sarkari khas land Vide Dag Number 1828 and 1829, under Mahabhairab Mouza reserved for Tezpur Iddgah Committee for the purpose of Idd Prayer now is being used for construction of some structure by some people. “It is seen that government notification being number RSS- 114/71/68 dated

Dispur, Ghy. 781006 of September 9, 1975 state that “The Governor of Assam having considered all aspects of the matter and also for strengthening of understanding among different sections of the people is pleased to order that the Tezpur Iddgah field comprising Dag Number 1828 and 1829 under Mahabhairab Mouza is being reserved for the Tezpur Iddgah Committee for the Iddgah Prayer. The committee will look after the upkeep of the field. The field will remain sarakari khas and it will remain under the custody of the Deputy Commissioner, Darrang who will whenever give necessary permission for the games, holding social public and public function etc. while giving permission will see that the field is not used for such purpose as may affect the Muslim religious sentiment.” The order said adding the deputy commissioner may allow the Iddgah Committee to construct walls around the fields as boundary for its

proper upkeep. It is to be mentioned here that the field was initially called “Chitraban Bakori” which is now commonly known as Iddgah Field. There was some dispute between the Madhya Tezpur Rangali Bihu Sanmilan and the Iddgah Committee for which some lands of Tezpur Mahakuma Parishad measuring about 2 kotha 4 lessa was sold to the Madhya Tezpur Rangali Bihu Sanmilan vide registered sale deed. The field has been used as playground for the Tezpur Academy Higher Secondary School and the Bengali Boys Higher Secondary schools. The elderly people of the town used to do morning walk in the field, but since February 2014 the gate has been kept locked by the Iddgah Committee. The government order allowed the Muslim Community of Tezpur to hold Iddgah Prayer on two days of the year and also allowed the Madhya

Tezpur Rangali Bihu Sanmilan to use the playground as a venue for the audience and general public for enjoying the Bihu functions. Now some persons under the banner of Tezpur Iddgah Committee has been trying to make two number of sheds in front of the Bihu Mancha and stop the students from carrying out their sports activities thereby leading discontentment among different communities in the area for which there was an apprehension of law and order situation due to which the further construction over the land were stopped by the Iddgah committee. However, it is noticed that the Iddgah Committee is yet to be responsive in demolishing the illegally constructed business sheds for which the Guahati High court has ordered the District administration to move for the demolishing of the said illegal construction in front of the Bihu Mancha inside the Iddgah Field.

Drug peddlers apprehended at Duliajan ET Bureau Duliajan, 8 Dec : On an intelligence tips off, Duliajan Police led by Inspector Ishwar Singh apprehended two drug peddlers with a huge amount of drugs, mostly brown sugar today at Pengrai. Interrogation revealed that the duos are part of a large scale drug business. Drugs are being smuggled from Assam and neighbouring Arunachal Pradesh to Uttar Pradesh. The apprehended local peddler, Dependra Chetry (35) son of Ganesh Chetry, a resident of Pengrai Charali Aamguri was caught with one Sakhil Khan (46) belongs to Bareli in Uttar Pradesh. They were about to leave for Uttar Pradesh by a train on Thursday night when they were caught by the police. The duos further revealed that one Raju Rai from Dhekiajan under Digboi Police Station (Kherjan Gaon) supplied them the drugs to be taken to Uttar Pradesh.

Brahma in a mission to reduce elephants’ deaths due to collision with trains, endorses to use thermal sensors Contd. from Page 1

been formed in association with local youth and training is being imparted to them to deal with man-animal conflict as well as to prevent untoward incidents regarding the safety of wild animals. The Minister admitted here is scarcity of welltrained veterinarians in Assam to attend to the wild animals. "We have decided to ask the veterinary university to open up a specialised wing so that their services can be hired for treating animals in wild during emergencies," said Brahma.

sands of devotees every year. Near the entrance of this ancient temple, the idols of Lord Ganesh and Lord Hanuman stand as “Dwarpaals” and the gateway also bears elaborate embellishment, intrinsically carved out. Remnants of the original temple can still be seen in the numerous huge pillars scattered all around the temple. In the recent times, many new renovations and reconstructions of the historic place have been planned and carried out by the district administration with the contribution of various charitable institutions. A wall surrounding the temple has also been construction intending to guard its precincts. Moreover, during recent past some other activities like construction of guest rooms; shopping arcade and landscaping in the premises, to help develop the place into a convenient pilgrimage centre have been executed. The Shivratri mela celebrated with much pomp and gaiety draws thousands of devotees and tourists from across the country seeking blessings from Lord Shiva who returns with a positive image of the historic town. However, these days the devotees have who come for offering puja and other purposes have to return back with a negative impression following various

mismanagements including unhygienic atmosphere. One of the devotees who didn’t intend to mention his name here lamented that the people engaged in the historic temple including pujaris are seen giving more priority in the money collected every day from various sources than keeping the temple clean to attract the visitors. “Visitors come here for performing various activities like Marriage ceremony, Anna prasanna, birth day and many other purposes, expecting clean and peaceful performance, but the management system fails to satisfy the people, even some times maximum charge is seen imposed from the Temple authority upon the people in the name of giving service. Day by day the surrounding of the Temple is becoming filthy for the ill-maintenance. It is very unfortunate that at a time when entire country is stressing on clean and green environment through commendable programme like Swach Bharat, Historic place like Mahabhariab Temple that has been standing as a major attraction for both domestic and foreign tourists is in a sorry state.” He rued and urged the authority concerned including the Temple management Committee and the District Administration to take initiative to sustain itsa dignity forever.

Bogdoi Mohotshav all set to kick off on 15 December

Open field encroachment evicted at GTC A Staff Reporter Pasighat, Dec 8: In a step to restrict rampant encroachment, the district administration led by magistrates, police and official of DLRSO evicted illegal encroachment taking place at open field in GTC today. Though the trend of encroachment is not new in the towns like Pasighat where almost all the government lands have already been encroached either by the occupants of the government quarter/office by concern officials/staffs or by private individuals, the new trend of encroachment like occupying the open field/playground of school/village shows the height of people’s greed for land. To restrict such open field encroachment which can later turn out to be a wrong example for

Shambhu Boro, Tezpur, Dec 8.The historic Mahabhairab Temple located at the heart of the Tezpur town that has been a major attraction for both the domestic and foreign tourists has now a days failed to attract the people as it is beginning to loss it’s past glory for the alleged mismanagement and lackacidical attitude of the members associated with its management body. It is to be mentioned here that located atop a small hill in the northern part of Tezpur, Mahabhairab Temple is considered as a major landmark of Tezpur city and contributes a lot to the magnetic charm and beauty of the place. It is believed that the original temple was made of stone, constructed by Banasura, the demon king who had his capital at Tezpur. It was mainly dedicated to Lord Shiva and has one of the largest Shiva lingams in the world. However, the original temple was destroyed in the 1897 earthquake and the present one was constructed during the early part of the 20th century. The present structure of the temple was built by Naga Baba (Sri Swayambar Bharati) and was later developed by Sri Mahadeo Bharati and other devotees. The place has now become a very important pilgrimage spot of Assam and attracts thou-

others if not checked, the town magistrate led by John Modi, DLRSO O. Nangkar and team of police evicted the newly under construction of structures at GTC field today by engaging a JCB. It is worth adding there that, encroachment has became a cancer today which will be difficult to get cured anytime soon as the most of the government officers who are

supposed to pass orders or act against encroachments have taken the major bulk of government lands despite knowing its illegal. Hence, voice are often raised from poorer section of the society about selective eviction as most of the eviction drives only touched the huts and temporary structures of poor people, not of the big and rich man or officers.

Rituraj Phukan JORHAT, Dec 08: “The second edition of second Bogdoi Mohotshav is all set to begin on 15th of December on the bank of Bhogdoi River,” the press release by the organizing committee, Indigenous, stated today. The Bogdoi Mohotshav is an endeavour to propagate and preserve the indigenous culture and tradition of North Eastern caste and

communities. "We are trying to focus on the indigenous culture of Assam," said Dipanjit Changmai in the press meet. “There will be around 90 stalls showcasing indigenous culture; ten stalls have been already reserved for other participating states like Kashmir, West Bengal, Manipur, we have one stall from Bangladesh as well,”

Dipanjit Changmai added. These apart, well known artistes are expected to enthral the audience with live performances. The Kamar community of Assam, well known for making intriguing household tools will be another attraction. The festival will have plenty to offer to foodies with different exotic indigenous cuisines lined up for satisfying one’s yearning for food.

Tezpur Karate Club bags Gold and Bronze medals ET Correspondent Tezpur, December 8 : The Tezpur Karate Club has brought glory to the historic town by bagging Gold and Bronze medals in the 28th National AIKF Karate Competition re-

cently held with a four day long Programme in Jharkhand. Representing Assam, Hirakjyoti Patangia and Babin Limbu bagged gold medal while Nayajyoti

Nath, Prantar Pallab M a j u m d a r, Raisa Iashmin Khan, Jahida Akhtar and Sansayita Sujan Sharma bagged bronze medals. They were today felicitated at the Tezpur Karate Club.

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9

REST OF

NORTHEAST

NCSU hosts visiting ECI team Sharad Sundari 2016' unveils season's most awaited festive look in Tripura

Eight member ECI team led by Chairman Venkat Rao with DC, SP Kohima and NCSU officials. Dimapur, Dec 08: Nagaland Contractors' & Suppliers Union (NCSU) hosted a nine member team of ECI Engineering & Construction Company, Hyderabad during their visit to Kohima for the Hornbill Festival at Naga Heritage Village Kisama on December 6 and 7. A press note by NCSU secretary, Imsunok Jamir stated that NCSU officials and members led by president Pele Khezhie organised a welcome programme in Kohima on December 6, wherein

Get Gorgeous Society, Dimapur enthralled the visiting guests led by ECI chairman Kaza Venkat Rao by showcasing a fusion of traditional and modern wear from Nagaland and also other North Eastern States as well as special music. ECI board member V. V. Prasad while expressing happiness over the warm welcome described Naga people as beautiful and filled with warmth. He also appreciated the existence of gender equality in the Naga society. He also lauded

Nagas for the good sanitary habits such as avoiding open defecation and urination. Meanwhile, on the ongoing four-lane work of Dimapur-Kohima National Highway, Prasad maintained that the Company would work towards completing the project within two years and help the Nagas in improvising the lifestyle without any pot-holes on the said route. Earlier, NCSU general secretary John Kath delivered the welcome address. (Agencies)

MPTC seeks Guv's intervention Imphal, Dec 08: ManipurPradesh Trinamool Congress (MPTC) has urged for the Governor's immediate intervention into the protracted issue of economic blockade and the retaliatory counter economic blockade besieging the State. Speaking to media persons at their office today, former MP and MPTC president Kim Gangte said that people of the State have been facing lots of hardship due to the economic blockade imposed by the United NagaCouncil (UNC) on the National Highways of the State against creation of SadarHills and Jiribam districts which have not yet been announced by the Government Asking the UNC why they have been prolonging the economic blockade for such a long time, Kim Gangte urged the UNC to lift the economic blockade along the Na-

tional Highways in the larger interest of the public. Various organizations have already appealed to the UNC to lift the economic blockade but UNC has not been paying any heed. Anguished by the prolonged economic blockade, some sections of people have imposed counter economic blockade. It is rather confusing that the Government is not able to solve the issue till today, she remarked. She went on to ask why the BJP led Central Government has been acting as a silent spectator all these days without ever bothering to intervene. Both the State and Central Governments have failed to address the issue with the degree of seriousness it deserves. She said that it is not the time for political parties specially Congress and BJP to blame each other

and urged the ruling Congress party to reach out to other political parties and talk with all stake holders and resolve the issue amicably. Kim Gangte also said that the issue cannot be solved by arresting UNC president and other members. It's time for the Governor of Manipur to step in and intervene into the issue before the situation turns uglier and graver. Regarding demonetization of Rs 500 and 1000 notes, she said that Trinamool Congress is against black money as every citizen is but the party opposes undue harassment of citizens in the name of fighting black money Those who have been standing in long queues are the poor people. None of the officers, politicians and Ministers was found standing in front of banks or ATM booths, she added. (Agencies)

KSU against rly projects till govt tackles influx Shillong/Nongpoh, Dec 08: The Khasi Students' Union (KSU) has reiterated their opposition to railway projects in the State asserting that it would to threats of influx. KSU president Daniel Khyriem, who was speaking at a function to observe the 22nd death anniversary of Bull Lyngdoh at Shillong Law College in Malki on Wednesday, vowed to uphold the ideology of the union's late president. The strong-worded remark came two days after Minister of State for Railways Rajen Gohain said survey for the final location for a part of the two railway projects - the 22-km Tetelia-Byrnihat tracks and the 108-km Byrnihat-Shillong line was completed. Khyriem said, "We will uphold the ideology of our late leader in his op-

position to the railways in the State as the presence of immigrants will be a threat to the minority indigenous communities here. If there is no proper mechanism to check influx, we will continue our opposition to the projects." Meanwhile, the North Khasi Hills unit of the Union refuted Gohain's claim that the survey was over. KSU's district president Ferdynald Kharkamni told media persons in Nongpoh on Wednesday that the Union minister's statement in the Lok Sabha session is false as "the survey is still kept in abeyance" following the union's opposition. Also, the Khasi Hills Autonomous District Council is yet to issue a no-objection certificate for the survey. "The State government's

failure to tackle unabated influx is a matter of great concern," he said. Gohain had said the issues hindering the survey were ironed out through regular meetings with the State government and KSU. In Shillong, Khyriem too expressed concern that the demands to implement laws to safeguard the indigenous community of the State from immigration has not yet picked up pace. Expressing surprise over the Union minister's comment, Kharkamni said KSU members took this issue up with Chief Minister Mukul Sangma who had assured that the survey would be put on hold. He warned any entity against taking up the survey work and said KSU would not take any responsibility for untoward incidents. (Agencies)

Agartala, Dec 08: Beauty is power, and so was witnessed in the Grand finale of the season's most awaited festive look 'Sharad Sundari 2016' by Shyam Sundar Co. Jewellers. The sixth edition of the beauty pageant saw the top twelve finalists, sizzling the ramp competing to win the crown with Showstopper Tollywood Diva Rituparna Sengupta along with Actor Suchandra Vaaniya. The judges' panel included Actor Indrani Halder; Bengali Film Director Sudeshna Roy, Veteran Photographer Vivek Das, Mrs. India International Riecha Sharma and Mrs Arpita Saha, Director, Shyam Sundar Co. Jew-

ellers. The beauties were all set to win over the title to be 'Sharad Sundari 2016'. The finalists had to face three rounds of the Grand finale. The first round was based on self introduction; second round was on judges' question-answer session and the final round was on the distinct writing skill of the contestant on one common question, time allotted was one minute. Besides the main pageant award there were awards for three other special categories namely Best Hair, Best Skin and Sharad Sundari Tripura. The top 12 finalists vying the crown were Ahiri Biswas, Anindita Maity, Banhisikha Bhattacharya,

Gov bats for skilling ESM fraternity Dimapur, Dec 08: In line with the Centre's scheme for re-skilling ex-servicemen (ESM) in order to provide them gainful employment, Nagaland governor, PB Acharya, on Wednesday said eligible dependents of ESM should pursue skills development like nursing, driving, tailoring and plumbing, which he said were in great demand and would lead to employment. Interacting with a team of ESM led by Brig (Retd) KK Roy Choudhury, Directorate of Sainik Welfare & Resettlement (RSB) at Raj Bhawan on the occassion of Armed Forces Flag Day, Acharya emphasized on the need for ESM fraternity to visit schools and colleges to educate the youth on scarifies made by Armed Forces in defending the country against external aggressive and share

their experience. Acharya also felt the need to ensure optimum utilization of available resource for welfare of the ESM fraternity. Governor mentioned that various facilities and schemes introduced by the central government under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, like Jan Dhan Yojana, Insurance scheme and skills development must be availed to accrue maximum benefits. Further, the governor said ESM fraternity should reach out to the population and make them understand the benefits of such schemes. Meanwhile, the governor conveyed his best wishes and appreciated the contribution made by the Armed Forces and the veterans. (Agencies)

Debjani Ganguly, Jazz Sarkar, Malancha Rath, Puja Mukherjee, Rai Chowdhury, Rituparna Dhar, Sanjana Chetri, Suchismita Bar and Usri Nirjhar Ganguly. The concept of the most coveted beauty pageant "Sharad Sundari" that begun in 2011 by spotting faces at popular puja pandals, is a hunt for the season's face with the most festive look who would be an embodiment of beauty, power and knowledge with the zeal to excel. With an aim to discover individuals who have a positive approach towards life with special focus on passion and creativity, this glamorous event witnessed the national participation of

3712 girls this year, mainly from West Bengal and Tripura from different walks of life like Students, Doctors, CA, Journalist, Engineer even house wife. Speaking on the occasion Mr. Rupak Saha, Director, Shyam Sundar Co. Jewellers said, "The hunt to find the real beauty finally comes to an end. The journey started from the most glorified festival of ours that is Durga Puja and ended with the hunt to find the best among the best. I am overwhelmed with the response received from across the country. Sharad Sundari is growing bigger day by day as it is not only a competition of the outer beauty

but also highlights the inner beauty and the talents one possess. I thank all the gorgeous participants and congratulate the winner of the year." Every woman is beautiful, to add on to this notion best 60 participants appeared before judges on 6th November 2016 with an elimination round. Judges first short listed 25 beauties and then finalized the best 12 who were spotted at the popular puja pandals and prominent housing societies during that period of time when one is full of festive mood and glory. This was indeed a matter of tough choice; the Jury had a hard time judging and picking the best Sundari. (Agencies)

TIT Principal invites VC's irk in Tripura Agartala, Dec 08: Deeply unhappy over the kind of behaviour of Tripura Institute of Technology's Principal Arup Kumar Das Chowdhury, Vice Chancellor of Tripura University Dr. Anjan Kumar Ghosh asked him to tender apology for his 'misconduct in a meeting', according to sources. The tug of war between two technical institutionsTIT and Techno India over preparation of question papers was on for the past few months. Of late, the Controller of Examinations exhorted the TIT authority to prepare question papers with the help of Techno India at a meeting. However, TIT's Principal was against the Varsity's request and has reportedly behaved roughly with the nominees of Techno India.

Sensing trouble, the VC has convened a meeting to take final call on the matter. At the meeting, the VC asked TIT's Principal to obey the instruction passed by the Controller of Examination. "Varsity's decision- to prepare question papers jointly by TIT and Techno India should be implemented without any further delay", the VC has told in the meeting. Side by side, the VC has also asked TIT's Principal to seek apology for his alleged rough behaviour in the meeting held earlier. In the meantime, TIT's Principal has written a complaint letter to the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) mentioning his objection over the proposal of giving responsibility to Techno India.

Anger at the Chowhdury's role bypassing Varsity's instruction, the VC has taken it variously seriously. He may consider it as misconduct in service. Now question arises why TIT authority is so much interest in preparing examination papers? Is there any financial benefit? There are allegations faculty members of TIT are involved in private tuition which is not desirable. The caught of the game is that some faculty members prepare question papers and they check answer scripts giving a wide scope of match fixing in the results. And, it seems TIT authority is ready to miss the monopoly business by sharing responsibility with Techno India. (Agencies)

Shillong, Dec 08: With scarcity of cash still prevailing, Chief Secretary KS Kropha held a meeting with the RBI and SBI officials on Wednesday to ensure that there is no hurdle in releasing the advance salary of state government employees for the upcoming festive season. Every year during Christmas, government employees get advance pay, but with demonetisation, there is shortage of cash flow. "The meeting was held to ease the problem and we hope that by December 20, we will be able to disburse the advance pay," Kropha said. A month after Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced demonetisation

on November 8, normalcy is yet to be restored as far as flow of cash is concerned. In several banks and ATMs, there is still shortage of new Rs 500 notes and the old Rs 100 notes. Many shopkeepers and city residents said release of new Rs 2,000 notes by RBI was not necessary since getting change for Rs 2,000 is a difficult task. With the cash withdrawal limit of Rs 2,500 per day from ATMs, several customers are getting only the new Rs 2,000 notes and not the new Rs 500 or currency of smaller denominations. There was no new announcement either from the Centre or from RBI

on raising the cash withdrawal limit from ATMs. Moreover, many in the State are averse to carry on with cashless transactions though several shops had introduced Paytm facility, but with less takers. A section of the people is also apprehensive about using swipe machines for transactions due to security reasons coupled with the possible reduction of certain percentage of amount during purchases. A trader said that both cash and cashless transactions should go simultaneously as complete restriction on the use of cash will not be practical in a country like India. (Agencies)

Church leaders' appeal to UNC to lift blockade cuts no ice UCM urged Govt explores ways to release to roll back ultimatum advance pay in Meghalaya Imphal, Dec 08 : Tribal Church leaders have today appealed to the United Naga Council to lift the economic blockade imposed along the National Highways of the State. All Manipur Christian Organisation (AMCO) president Dr Prim Vaiphei in a press meet held at Manipur Press Club today said the UCM's economic blockade has worsened the suffering of the people who are already reeling from cash crunch post the demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1000 notes. AMCO, Tribal Churches Leaders Forum Manipur and other Church leaders met the UNC and Naga Mothers' Association and different Naga student organisations at Senapati recently. During the meeting, the Church leaders related the miseries endured by people in the valley due to the economic blockade and appealed to the UNC leaders to lift the economic blockade. UNC and Naga Mothers'

Association in the meeting had said that the economic blockade is not targeted against any particular section of the society or community but the State Government. Even so, the UNC should lift the economic blockade keeping in view the hardships it has caused the people, the Church leaders stated. On the other hand, the United Committee Manipur's (UCM) has set December 7 as the deadline for the UNC to lift the economic blockade. Fearing that unwanted incidents could occur, the Church leaders, in the press meet today urged the UCM to withdraw their ultimatum and the UNC to lift the blockade in the larger interest of the people. Urging for a dialogue, the Church leaders said the indefinite economic blockade has all the potential to jeopardise the bond of fraternity shared by the people of Manipur.(Agencies)

Investigation ordered into child death in GB hospital owing to blood problem in Agartala Agartala Dec 08: The GB hospital authority has ordered an intensive investigation into the death of a child Swapnil Das (3) in the hospital on last Sunday due to delayed requisition of blood. The superintendent of GBP hospital Dr Subrata Baidya has constituted a three member of team of inquiry comprising a doctor each of medicine, pediatrics and pathology departments and instructed the team to file a report by Friday . It was because of alleged negligence of doctors and nurses in GBP hospital on last Sunday that the three yearold

child Swapnil Das of Jirania who had met with an accident breathed his last . The guardians of the child alleged that the doctors on duty had treated the injury sustained by the child and profuse bleeding from his body with utter negligence and had delayed the matter of blood transfusion. As a result the child died on emergency bed . Sources in GBP hospital said that the inquiry report would be sent to director of health services and health commissioner for action. (Agencies)

Shillong civil hospital shows multiple 'ailments' Shillong, Dec 08: Congestion in the Oncology department, absence of a trauma centre and burn units and non-functional MRI and CT scan were among the problems ailing Shillong civil hospital. A group of health officials, led by Health and Family Welfare Minister Roshan Warjri, went on a surprise inspection of the hospital on Wednesday. Though apparently it looked well-maintained, a closer look revealed that the hospital lacks basic medical facilities. The crowded Oncology ward was far from providing a healthy environment to the critical pa-

tients. The minister suggested that the department should take care of the patients in some other space available in the hospital and the superintendent was directed to take necessary action in this regard. Also, the hospital requires a trauma centre and burn units for which the superintendent was asked to submit a proposal to the government for examination and sanction. There is also a need for strengthening the casualty ward and the hospital authorities have already placed their request for deployment of

more doctors and nurses. The non-functional MRI and CT scan machines are inconveniencing patients for some time now. The Minister directed the technical committee to submit a report on whether the machines should be repaired or replaced. Though the hospital scored higher marks in hygiene and cleanliness, Warjri asked the authorities to ensure that both male and female wards have proper sanitation. Later, the inspection team held a review meeting with doctors in the hospital. (Agencies)

EDITORIAL

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9

Today's quote

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Sometimes by losing a battle you find a new way to win the war. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Donald Trump

The Reserve Bank of India's big surprise The Reserve Bank of India has surprised markets by opting to keep benchmark interest rates unchanged and cutting the outlook for full-year growth in the wake of last month's decision to withdraw legal tender status to high denomination currency notes. In the fifth bimonthly monetary policy statement, the RBI cited a "backdrop of heightened uncertainty." It listed global factors including the imminent tightening of U.S. monetary policy and the rise in oil prices, and "disconcerting" domestic inflation trends that could potentially endanger its price stability goals. Expectations that the U.S. Federal Reserve will resume its normalisation of policy by raising interest rates on December 14 have combined with a homeward-bound flight of capital from emerging markets in the wake of Donald Trump's win in the presidential election to buoy the dollar at the expense of other currencies. The rupee has not been spared, forcing the RBI to intermittently intervene to reduce volatility. Given that the exchange rate has the potential to exert upward inflationary pressure as a bulk of the country's commodity imports, including crude oil, are largely paid for in dollars, the RBI had little choice but to ensure that at least interest rates don't end up being another alibi for capital outflows. On the domestic front, food prices other than those of vegetables are showing sustained firmness. More worryingly, inflation excluding food and fuel has stubbornly displayed a "downward inflexibility" that could, coupled with volatile energy costs and further financial market turbulence, jeopardise the RBI's end-March retail inflation target of 5 per cent. That the central bank has adopted a "wait and watch" approach in the wake of the liquidity shock to the banking system sparked by the withdrawal from circulation of about 86 per cent of the bank notes, is instructive. Trimming its Gross Value Added (GVA) growth projection for 2016-17 by 50 basis points to 7.1 per cent, the RBI cited an unexpected loss of momentum in the second quarter, particularly in industrial activity, and the impact from the withdrawal of currency. The RBI observed that the currency replacement exercise was likely to have the biggest impact on cash-intensive sectors. The resultant disruptions could drag down growth in this fiscal and more data are needed before conclusions can be drawn on the full impact and persistence of such an impact. It is understandable therefore that the RBI has opted for caution. Observing that economic growth could rebound strongly if the impact is "transient" as widely expected, the central bank has for now chosen to hedge its bets by reiterating an "accommodative policy stance".

Cho Ramaswamy, wit and analyst It was the eighteenth century satirist Joseph Addison who said his task was "to enliven morality with wit, and to temper wit with morality". For veteran journalist, satirist and playwright 'Cho' Ramaswamy, the task may well have been "to enliven politics with wit, and to temper wit with political analysis". Cho was a lawyer, writer, dramatist, comedian, journalist and commentator, but will chiefly be remembered as a playwright for his 1968 satire Muhammad bin Tughlaq, and as the editor of Thuglak magazine for his refusal to be cowed down by the Emergency. Many looked up to him for political analysis and even voting guidance. Often moving beyond the journalistic role, he utilised his numerous political friendships to bring together parties and leaders and sought to influence major developments. Seen as an upstart when he founded Thuglak in 1970, Cho managed to reflect the unspoken angst of the middle class, which held a dim view of politics and politicians, especially because of the ease with which political loyalties would swing from one end to another. His early years in journalism coincided with the authoritarian phase of the ruling Congress. Therefore it was no surprise that his brand of journalism, somewhat unique at the time in south India, had an antiestablishment resonance for many years. It is easy to sum up Cho's political views: he was a committed nationalist, a right-of-centre analyst, and a firm believer in a strong Central government. He tended to be disdainful of regional parties and their aspirations. He was a fierce critic of the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam, and the misuse of Article 356 of the Constitution for political ends. With a readership that strongly echoed his own worldview, Thuglak shaped the thinking of the middle class for many years. However, with the rise of other political forces to take on the dominant and unpopular ones, Cho's appeal was later limited to the right-wing middle and upper classes. Being a strong critic of the Emergency and a spirited lampooner of authority, he could have been a liberal. However, there was a streak of conservatism in his political outlook, which influenced the manner in which he addressed the issues before the country, both as an analyst and as a playwright. But ultimately, what will remain in memory is his inimitable humour, withering sarcasm and vigorous espousal of democracy against authoritarian intervention. His journalism was rooted in ethics, rarely allowing scope for gossip or baseless charges. His Tamil readers will definitely miss his sharp analysis and their weekly fix of middle-class wisdom.

It's Monetisation, not Demonetisation This cashlessness, if intended to promote a longterm cashless economy is not demonetisation; it's actually the monetisation of the economy. Indeed, the monetisation is not mere the use of currency in the transactions; rather it's the process of inclusion of all the productive activities within the monetary system of the economy. In essence, the quantum of money multiplication through the banking system should be truly determined by the productive forces of the economy. Certainly, the critical aspect is that the fiscal policies should also work in tandem with the monetisation drive in view of the vulnerable unorganized sector. Generally speaking, the surplus by authoritarian coercion is feudal wealth and surplus by productivity is the formation of capital. Indeed, the element of coercion subsists in the much debated historical process of capitalistic development owing to the simultaneous persistence of rent seeking wealth and chaste productivity-linked capital. The anatomical features of the contemporary human societies have also silhouetted this inevitable juncture. In this transition, the collateral political process legitimises the socioeconomic relations. In the erstwhile colonies like India, this transition phase has certainly been bewildered by a prolonging colonial economy. Concurrently, there has also been transformation in the monetary front from mere currency in circulation to the creation of money by the banking system, which represents the value of the economic activities within the ambit of fiscal policies. The quantum of multiplication can be understood by

the fact that presently, with all leakages, the currency in circulation in the Indian economy amounts to 12% of GDP, even though it's much higher than other emerging economies (4%). Likewise, the monetary policies have been struggling to value the industrial output in competing with the real returns from the industrial investment. Nevertheless, the fiscal policy has been the only linkage between the monetary and real economy. Once the socioeconomic forces are ensued from the commingling of rent seeking wealth and capital in a developing economy, eventually, the fiscal system is channelized for the leakage within the economy. This leaking marginal money, which is the highflying black money, creates a parallel economy - as per different economic analysis - to the size of 30-70% of our GDP. The creation of black money in independent India has been a historical process. The process has been championed at the behest of the persistence of an unreformed version of British Administration adopted at the interests of a neo-feudal incarnation in the safe haven of liberal democracy and the consequent bureaucratic impediments to the capital formation. The black money is created due to the illegal transactions of legal tenders. The plundering of public money has been the main source for it. Since independence, in the name of populist policies and projects of the government, such plundering has been masterminded by the bureaucratic system. And, under the garb of irregularities (planned?) and lack of necessary reforms in different departmental services of the government, the feu-

dal excesses collected as has reduced the productivkickbacks by the bureau- ity and deprived the much cratic lords may not be the intended objective. Essendirect plundering of public tially, the corruption-free money, but a big share of it implementation of public is the legitimate income of policies needs administrathe people. Again, the ille- tive reforms and the techgal transactions evading nological innovations can the income and service revolutionise this. The taxes are also large sources monetisation of public for black money. Even if the spending must be the most black money from these essential step towards cursources are tailing black originated in genIndrajit Borah money the form of eration. The c u r r e n c y, cashless the actual black money in transactions can prevent the economy must be much the black money generation more than the illegal cur- from the evasion of income rency leakage from the mon- and service taxes. etary system predominantly due to conversion to tanEspecially in the developgible/intangible assets, and ing economies, the lag bealso multiplication of the tween the real economic acblack money in circulation tivities and their passively by the banking monetisation has been a system. Ultimately, a small historic phenomenon. Likepart of the black money in wise, the conspicuous conthe economy remains as sumption driven by either currency in hoarding i.e. mi- black money or corrupt nuscule 2-5% of GDP in money can create an artificase of Indian economy. cial industrial demand in the Can the government an- economy even for a longer nouncement of discarding term. As a sizable percentold 500 and 1000 rupees age of transactions in the notes cleanse the portion of real estate, gold and inforthe black money of the mal sectors involves only economy hoarded as cash cash, even temporarily, the of these denominations? disincentive to investment Even if a portion could be due to monetisation may legitimised with the help of slow down the economic whitening contrivances, activities in these sectors. the volume of the portion of The role of cash transaction black money will be the sum in case of real estate and of the non-returning notes gold is mostly questionable, of those denominations to however in case of the inthe banking system within formal sectors it is the susthe deadline issued by RBI. tenance. The cottage or small scale enterprises and Now, if the sources of the informal sectors of the black money in different economy catering directly transactions are not elimi- to the bulk of our populanated in totality, new cur- tion are running on currency notes may also con- rency transactions. The tinue as a medium for black monetisation of these inmoney generation. As a dustries requires fiscal meamodern Avatar of feudal re- sures such that there can be lations, the politically minimal adverse impact on organised trickle down of these sectors and overall fiscal money from the policy industrial demand. makers to the bottom of the administrative machinery By no means, the promi-

nence of monetary system in an industrialised capitalist economy can be repudiated. The monetization limits economic transactions only through the use of legitimate money and bars unorganised activities in the economy. Conversely, a highly monetised economy can also make the fiscal policies ineffective to generate fiscal money, because the externalities like the unorganised sector created by the administrative technology can only be internalised by fiscal policies that are based on the aggregate and per capita level of national production and planning. Therefore, the conflict between the fiscal and monetary mechanisms as empowerment methodologies is imminent in the transitional economy. The contemporaneous history of fiscal and monetary policies in India indicates the growth potential of a developing economy. In India, once the fiscal policy had resulted in the monetisation of fiscal deficit by creation of money by RBI, which was completely discontinued in 1997 and further reforms were done under the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act in 2003. Thereafter, the RBI changed its strategy to ensure that the domestic money market had enough liquidity to facilitate government borrowings. Again, higher public debt levels in the populist economies also constrain monetary policy and have negative implications for long-run growth. Many economies have adopted formal fiscal rules and most have abolished direct central bank financing of deficits, and thereby reduced the threat of fiscal dominance. However, lower fiscal deficits are also associ-

ated with lower inflation and it is considered as a disincentive for investment in developing economies. Likewise, the debates on the probable profits to be earned by RBI in lieu of the non-returning old 500 and 1000 rupees currency notes and the inflation inducing potential in transferring it to the fiscal system, have already been started in different forums. The complete monetisation is the model objective step to get rid of black money menace and the benchmark for the financial prudence of every definite entity of an economy. However, in case of developing economies, abrupt monetisation drive without adequate fiscal measures can imbalance the power equation in favour of the big corporate and thwart the enterprises of the unorganised sector. Monetisation should not be a manoeuvre to wipe out the tiny enterprises from the race, rather a step towards organising them. There are two distinct historic roots of a parallel economy beyond the boundary of a monetary system -the persistence of feudal remains in the administrative mechanism and the unorganised enterprises in the periphery. At this juncture, the expansion of banking services and a digitised cashless economy are the necessities for monetisation of an economy. The monetisation should transform the fiscal money into actual public expenditure in the physical economy, because the monetisation of deficit financing can also be effective only if the leakages from the monetary system are plugged.

Guardians of federalism The AIADMK and the DMK have a shared legacy of social reform, commitment to State autonomy and fiscal federalism. In this phase of centralisation, they need to forge a political culture to cooperate on key issues It is not easy to fill the vacuum caused by the departure of a popular and charismatic leader. However, this vacuum is not a permanent state. If personalities of equal or even slightly less stature are unavailable, significant political space opens up for other players, principally political rivals or those of a similar ideological persuasion, to capitalise on the situation. Or, as a temporary phenomenon, pretenders claiming to be true legatees of the departed leader, or those claiming to espouse the same causes as her, could emerge as key players. Bargaining power with the Centre In Tamil Nadu, the unexpected demise of Jayalalithaa hardly six months into her fourth substantive term as Chief Minister seems to have created such a vacuum. There is no second-line leadership, none with a stature even remotely akin to hers within her All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK). However, the question of filling the vacuum is only academic as O. Panneerselvam has become Chief Minister, this being his third stint. On two earlier occasions, he saw himself as a stand-in until Jayalalithaa got rid of her legal disability to hold office. However, this time, it is a substantive innings. He cannot afford to display the reticence of a substitute. It was, of course, inevitable that someone who is

familiar and reliable and has represent a State that is not been the second in command one's home turf. There are in her Cabinet has been sworn voices advocating Constitution in her successor. Waiting in the amendments to curtail the role wings is the principal opposi- of the Rajya Sabha in enacting tion party legislawith a K. Venkataramanan tion. sizeable T h e presence emerging in the Legislative Assembly. dynamic in Centre-State relaTherefore, right now, the questions is unquestionably going tion of succession or the avail- to be a new order. States will ability of an electoral alterna- be under great pressure to contive is not an issue. What mat- form to a national narrative, ters in the aftermath of lest they be seen as derailing Jayalalithaa's departure from an emerging national consensus the scene is the ideological and or institutional framework. It political challenge faced by a is here that the need for a strong State that has repeatedly political personality helming elected regional parties to the States assumes significance. power for nearly half a cen- This need not immediately tury. The principal challenge conjure up the image of an anlies in retaining their relevance gry Mamata Banerjee or an in the national scheme of things acerbic Arvind Kejriwal hurland their bargaining power ing accusations at the Centre. with the Centre. On the contrary, there are, and This is an era of a return to ought to be, Chief Ministers centralisation. The economy is who argue for their States and on the verge of being united by their interests in a rational and a common taxation system that reasonable manner, and articuwas seen by Jayalalithaa as a late genuine problems arising serious compromise of feder- from questions that impinge on alism. After about two decades the federal features of the Conof dependence on regional par- stitution. ties for support, the Centre The role Jayalalithaa played now is being manned by a reJayalalithaa was undoubtgime which has its own major- edly one such leader. She vigity in the Lok Sabha and is in a orously questioned the impact position to assert itself. A com- of the introduction of the mon market and a common Goods and Services Tax on the political economy are emerg- taxation and fiscal powers of ing. The character of the Up- the States and the composition per House as a chamber that of the GST Council. She has represents the interests of the voiced similar opposition to States has already undergone a the National Counter Terrorchange with the electoral sys- ism Centre, and had reservatem that now allows one to tions about implementing the

Testing for gossip In ancient Greece, Socrates was reputed to hold knowledge in high esteem. One day an acquaintance met the great philosopher and said, "Do you know what I just heard about your friend?" "Hold on a minute", Socrates replied. "Before telling me anything I'd like you to pass a little test. It's called the Triple Filter Test." "Triple filter?" "That's right", Socrates continued. "Before you talk to me about my friend, it might be a good idea to take a moment and filter what you're going to say. That's why I call it the triple filter test. The

first filter is Truth. Have you made absolutely sure that what you are about to tell me is true?" "No,",the man said, "Ac-

tually I just heard about it and ..." "All right", said Socrates. "So you don't really know if

it's true or not. Now let's try the second filter, the filter of Goodness. Is what you are about to tell me about my friend something good?" "No, on the contrary." "So", Socrates continued, "you want to tell me something bad about him, but you're not certain it's true. You may still pass the test though, because there's one filter left: the filter of Usefulness. Is what you want to tell me about my friend going to be useful to me?" "No, not really." "Well", concluded Socrates, "if what you want to tell me is neither true nor good nor even useful, why tell it to me at all?"

National Food Security Act and joining UDAY or the Ujwal DISCOM Assurance Yojna in the power sector. During her prolonged hospitalisation of over two months, the State government decided to join the power sector scheme as well as implement the food security law. This is not to suggest that Jayalalithaa would not have shown accommodation with the Centre, as she has since 1991 embraced the positive aspects of economic reforms. However, these two examples show that those running the administration in her absence are likely to be seen as being more amenable to Central pressure. In the last two months and more of Jayalalithaa's hospitalisation, a visible phenomenon was the gradual effacement of the State administration. The Tamil Nadu government appeared to have no presence or voice in the scheme of things, as none in the Cabinet or the bureaucracy stepped forward to give an official update on her health, or utter a word of reassurance to the public. In the couple of days after Jayalalithaa suffered a cardiac arrest, the administration became completely invisible, as the spectre of a law and order situation among the restive party cadre arose. It was left to the Centre to step in by asking the Governor to rush to the State and inquire about her health status. Updates were given and rumours were scotched only by the hospital.

The Centre hinted that its forces were ready to assist in the event of a need, but none in the State government either said it would manage the situation on its own or that it would ask for help, if needed. Of course, the administration and the police were quietly doing their job, but the political executive was unfortunately silent. Ultimately, it was after the hospital announced her death that the ruling party's decision to elect Mr. Panneerselvam as its leader in the legislature was made public. The atmosphere was thick with speculation that a Union Minister had expressed the Centre's opinion on who it favoured as a successor, a subject that is surely not in the Union government's domain. If this is true, it could be an indication of what is to come: the Centre or its representatives actively guiding the State government in its functioning. The Bharatiya Janata Party is undoubtedly justified in looking for political space in Tamil Nadu. However, this should be achieved by overt political activity rather than the use of the Centre's power to bear down on the State administration. Both the regional party and the national party are free to forge a formal or informal alliance, but the State cannot afford to lose its independent voice, and it is the AIADMK's duty to dispel the impression that it may be arm-twisted or pressured into submission on any significant question. The rul-

ing party in the State is now particularly vulnerable to the charge that the Sasikala family is an extra-constitutional power centre. Avoiding this impression is in the hands of Mr. Panneerselvam's ministry. Causes peculiar to Tamil Nadu A notable feature after Jayalalithaa's demise is the manner in which leaders of the opposition Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) joined the ruling party supporters and the public in paying homage to her. No one can doubt that the level of personal animosity between Jayalalithaa and DMK leader M. Karunanidhi played a serious role in the State's political culture lacking the sort of bonhomie seen between rival party leaders in other parts of the country. With the former's departure and the impending emergence of the next generation in the DMK, there is a clear opportunity to usher in a new political culture marked by cooperation on key issues. Both the AIADMK and the DMK have a shared legacy of social reform, commitment to State autonomy and fiscal federalism, and the vigorous espousal of causes peculiar to Tamil Nadu such as backward class reservation and the abolition of entrance tests. They would be better off, as would the State be, if they dealt with these matters jointly, shedding the vexed propensity of the past to look for opportunities to score political points over each other.

Cash only for visa fee Demonetisation has hit travel agents hard. Even in these days of a severe monetary crunch, a lead bank which is the authorised visa fees collection agent bank of the U.S. Embassy/consulates in India still insists on payment of visa fees in cash; no cheques, demand drafts, online transfers or debit to bank account to even those who hold an account in the same bank or branch. Travel agents like me find it very hard to find cash to pay the visa fee for clients who pay only by cheque as banks still do not allow withdrawal of money above a certain limit a day. I hope the authorities concerned take remedial measures. Abdul Rajaq Doomdooma, Assam

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9

P7 WOMEN 9 Beauty tips to 7 Best Traditional Dresses look beautiful in To Wear This Diwali this Diwali

Cleansing

Diwali is coming in a couple of weeks and I am sure that all you girls would be wanting to look your best. It is a festival of light, sweets and crackers and I am sure all of you want to shine bright, look sweet and crack the perfect look. Well keeping this in mind I shortlisted some traditional wear for all of you to wear this Diwali. Diwali is not just a time to share happiness it can also be a time when we go back to our native places and strengthen our roots. So how about going traditional this Diwali…? Just for this I collected some of the traditional Indian dresses which will not only make you beautiful and fashionable but also give your look a flavor of our centuries long tradition. From the north to Gujrat to Maharashtra to down south we have different ways of wearing the same sarees. The color and the texture changes, the way of wearing differs. Here we will look at all these kinds of sarees and in adition to it a ghagra choli along with some suits that can make you shine this Diwali.

Toxins from the body and pollutants from the environment give the skin dull look, soap is good to remove oil for teenagers, but a later skin becomes dry. So, use a face wash or wipe of cleansers at least 3 times a day.

MARATHI SAREE Are you living in Delhi, but miss that Marathi mulgi look? Or you just want a different look, just to surprise all this Diwali? Well this saree is quite an option. It looks great when matched with beautiful accessories. I quite love this look it's hep, stylish and has a beautiful Marathi flavor. You can even show some lavni moves on Diwali party wearing this…!

SOUTH INDIAN SAREE

Moisturizing

Want a fragrance of the south? Or want that silky saree you might have seen vidya balan wear 10's of times and surprisingly, look good..! Well this saree makes everyone look their best and if you completely wanna go the south way you can add gajra to your bun. Beautiful is the word to describe this saree. It is neatly drapped and is just a treat to the eye. Well as for me I like it with open hair not a bun. But choice is always yours..!

Different skin types need different ones choose from creams for dry skin, lotions for normal skin and gels for oily skin, always moisturize 10 minutes before stepping out and include the neck areas.

GHAGRA CHOLI

Scrubbing

People say save the best for the last, but I would begin here with my favorite, that's a beautiful and perfect ghagra choli. It's a dream come true kinda attire. With a beautiful ghagra going down to your feet and a perfect choli covered with a netted duppata. Just as shown in the image, if go with a perfect color combination this look does wonders. If looks could kill, I bet this one surely would.

Exfoliation removes dead skin cells; but skin cells shed every 28 days so use scrub only once a month after 25 yrs of age; use bran soaked in water, moong dal scrub or ones available in the market. Young people should use only peel off masks, no scrubs needed.

A LINE SUIT Well to completely go simple, you can go for a beautiful A line suit like the one in the image. It is simple yet beautiful, sophisticated and classy. Well isn't that what we want from what we wear…?

Masks

The saree is such a beautiful thing, drape it the other way and the look completely changes. Well gujrati saree is another way of going to the basics. An amazingly stylish way of dressing and celebrating this Diwali the "land of dandia way". Match it with perfect accessories and feel the magic.

Fruits like papaya, banana have the capacity to dissolve toxins when applied, oily skin can use Multani mitti pack but use them not more than once a month or before an important day out.

Protection Never go out without a layer of protection at any age, which can be compact powder, foundation, moisturizing lotion or sunscreen to prevent dust and dirt harm you.

Water spray Sprinkle water on face and neck every morning. Use a spray bottle and take care not to rub with a towel but to pat dry. Spraying removes toxins collected at night and increase circulation of blood.

Moisturize Use moisturizer when skin is still damp then wait for 10 minutes before stepping out in fresh air.

Water intake lukewarm water to which honey can be added takes away the puffiness of face caused by fluid retention at night.

Meditate If not daily at least once a week to have calming effect and for the inner glow to show on skin

G U J R AT I SAREE

ANARKALI SUIT Well I am a big fan of this suit, it makes you feel like a queen and surely your beau or husband like a king. Just its making and the look that this suite offers is of some other world. That is the reason it features in this list. Plus not many accessories required just one long earrings and to add to it open hair will look perfect. Not much "do do", but a big thumbs up

LEHENGA SAREE Each attire goes well with an occasion and this lovely lehenga saree is nearly perfect for you this Diwali. Going to a Diwali dinner? Or hosting a Diwali party? If you wear this I bet not a single guest will pass you by without a flattering complement. Match this with a perfect neckpiece and bangles and you are ready to burn that floor where you walk..!

Butter Chicken Recipe Servings: 8 Cook Time: 30 Minutes + Marination time (overnight) Straight from a Punjabi kitchen, butter chicken has been an instant hit through the years. Marinated overnight, the chicken is roasted and cooked in tomato puree, cream and masalas.

Recipes and Cooking Tips

Add the raw chicken pieces to the marinade and mix well. Keep it in the refrigerator overnight or minimum 6 hours. Roast the marinated chicken in a tandoor or an oven for about 10-12 minutes until it is threefourth done.

Ingredients

For the chicken gravy

700 gm raw chicken For theMarinade: 1 tsp red chilli powder 1 tsp ginger and garlic paste Salt to taste 1/2 kg curd

Heat half the quantity of white butter in pan.

For theGravy: 175 gm white butter 1/2 tsp black cumin seeds 1/2 kg tomato, pureed 1/2 tsp sugar 1 tsp red chilli powder Salt to taste 100 gm fresh cream 4 green chillies, sliced

1/2 tsp fenugreek leaves, crushed Method For marinating the chicken In a mixing bowl, mix red chilli powder, ginger garlic paste, salt and curd.

Pour in the tomato puree, and saute for 2-3 minutes. Add cumin seeds, sugar, red chilli powder and salt. Mix well. Add the prepared chicken, white butter, fresh cream, sliced green chillies and crushed fenugreek leaves. Saute for 3-4 minutes and let the chicken cook. Cook till chicken is done. Serve hot with rice ornaan.

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9

NATION P8 President anguished over Mamata flight row: Pilots played 'naughty' Parliamentary paralysis for early landing, says DGCA official

New Delhi, Dec 8 : In a stinging attack on the opposition over Parliamentary paralysis, President Pranab Mukherjee today said the House is not a place for dharna and disruption which amounts to "gagging of majority" by the minority. He told Parliamentarians that they are meant to discuss and transact business and not to disrupt. "Disruption is totally unacceptable in Parliamentary system. People send representatives to speak and not to sit on dharna and not to create any trouble on the floor," he said speaking on "Electoral reforms for a stronger democracy" on the occasion of Defence Estates Day Lecture here. Himself a veteran Parliamentarian before he became the President, Mukherjee said, "Disruption means you are hurt, you are gagging

Pranab Mukherjee majority. Majority never participates in this disruption. Only minority comes to the well, shouts slogans, stops the proceedings and creates a situation in which the Chair has no option but to adjourn the House. This is totally unacceptable". Mukherjee's sharp attack on Parliamentary disrup-

tion comes in the midst of paralysis of Parliament for over a fortnight over the issue of demonetisation. The President noted that Parliament is in session for only a few weeks in a year. "For demonstration, you can choose any other places. But for God's sake, do your job. You are meant to transact

PM singularly responsible for economic mess: CPI(M)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi New Delhi, Dec. 8: CPI(M) today held the Prime Minister "singularly responsible" for the "mess" in the economy due to demonetization and said it has renewed its contempt notice against him for continuously making policy statements outside Parliament and "running away" from a debate in the House. Referring to Modi's November 8 demonetization announcement, CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury said, "The Prime Minister is singularly responsible for the entire mess in our economy because it was his announcement, as his personal decision and not that of the Union Cabinet. Let him be accountable to the House. Why is he running away from Parliament?" Observing that Modi was

not present in Rajya Sabha today when questions on the PMO were listed to be answered, he said, "The Prime Minister avoids coming to the House, but continuously makes policy statements outside in public speeches. He is continuously violating parliamentary norms and practices." "Even today, there was clear violation as the waiver of service tax on credit and debit card transactions was made outside Parliament. ... No tax proposal can be made anywhere else but in Parliament," Yechury said, adding that the Consolidated Fund of India "will now get less service tax receipts because of the Prime Minister's proposal". "That is why it is a con-

tempt of Parliament. That's where the stalemate is. It is completely against the norms and traditions of Parliament. I have renewed my (contempt) notice today and urged the (Rajya Sabha) Chairman (Hamid Ansari) to consider it and give his ruling. A meeting of the Privileges Committee has been called tomorrow," he told a press conference here. Referring to Finance Minister Arun Jaitley's statement that there was no rule to make the PM sit through any debate in Parliament, he said there are precedents when the then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh sat through two debates on the 2G spectrum allocation scam and the coal scam and replied to it. "But here the Prime Minister is running away from debate," he alleged. He said the demand for a Joint Parliamentary Committee to go into "all aspects" of effects of demonetization including "the deaths of over 100 people", the "harassment" caused to the public and "several" BJP leaders allegedly being caught with large amounts of cash, has been supported by several major Opposition parties in Parliament. (PTI)

business. You are meant to devote your time for exercising the authority of members, particularly Lok Sabha members over money and finance," he said. Maintaining that he is not targeting any single party or individuals, he said the responsibility is of everyone. "Fact remains that this (disruption) has become a practice which should not be acceptable at all. Whatever be the differences, we have the opportunity, to speak our mind, to speak freely and no court can interfere in what I say on the floor of the House," he said. Mukherjee said that even if a member is levelling an allegation against someone, no court can prosecute him because he has said so on the floor of the House. "This type of freedom should not be misused by causing disruption," he said. (PTI)

New Delhi, Dec. 8: Cockpit crew of the three aircraft reporting short on fuel over Kolkata recently was "crying wolf" and played "naughty" to seek early landing to show good on-time performance, a top DGCA official said today and justified the action of derostering them. All the three aircraft had, in fact, "enough" fuel and the pilots wanted "early" landing to show "good on-time performance", the official said, requesting anonymity. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had ordered an inquiry to find out how three flights, including the IndiGo aircraft which had West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee onboard along with other passengers, could fly low on fuel into Kolkata at the same time. Subsequently, it directed the three airlines - IndiGo, Air India and SpiceJet - to take off duty the entire cockpit crew of the three aircraft. A row had erupted after the Trinamool Congress alleged that the IndiGo aircraft carrying its chief Banerjee was

Paneerselvam holds discussions with Sasikala, avoids media Chennai, Dec. 8: Tamil Nadu chief minister O.Panneerselvam, on Thursday, held discussions with his predecessor Jayalalithaa's confidante Sasikala Natarajan at the Poes Garden residence of the departed AIADMK supremo. The meeting lasted for about two hours. Panneerselvam did not speak to the waiting media after emerging from the meeting. He was accompanied by senior ministers of his cabinet, which included C.Srinivasan and Edappady K.Palaniswamy and P.Thangamani. It was not known what

was discussed in the meeting, which comes in the wake of the death of Jayalalithaa. AIADMK will now have to select a replacement to lead the party, even as Panneerselvam has taken over the administrative reins following Jayalalithaa's demise. Speculations are rife that Sasikala might be given a significant role in AIADMK. A close confidante of Jayalalithaa, Sasikala had even performed the last rites of the former chief minister on Tuesday, when she was laid to rest at the Marina beach with full state honours. (PTI)

Protesters try to set empty railway bogie on fire Kolhapur , Dec. 8: A group of protesters allegedly tried to set on fire an empty railway bogie at the Kolhapur railway station here, railway police said today. The Maharashtra Express was on the pit-line for cleaning yesterday. At around 7 PM, around 1015 persons were shouting slogans and throwing handbills protesting the delay over a decision on reservation for the Maratha community, a police official said. The accused allegedly hurled kerosene inside the bogie. They initially set the grass near the bogie on

fire. Other passengers at the railway station were alerted after seeing the blaze and informed the authorities concerned, he said. The railway officials and police rushed towards the bogie and immediately doused the flames. However, the accused fled from the spot. Following a complaint by the station master Meena Sugriv, a case has been registered in this regard and a probe was underway, said police. Meanwhile, Railway Police DSP Tushar Joshi and other railway officials will visit the spot today, another official said.(PTI)

Govt stands-by four militants theory in Pathankot attack New Delhi, Dec 8 : The Union Home Ministry will not change its statement given to the Parliament that there were four terrorists, who carried out terror attack at the Pathankot airbase, and not six as was announced by the government. A top Home Ministry official said the written question asked in Lok Sabha on November 29 was related to how many terrorists came from Pakistan. Since the investigation carried out by the NIA has found that only four Pakistani terrorists had cross over to India, it was decided that there would be no clarification. There may be two more terrorists, who attacked the Pathankot airbase, but investigations on that was still continuing, the official said. The answer given in Par-

liament is contrary to a statement made by Home Minister Rajnath Singh on March 4 when he had said that charred remains, apart from four bodies of terrorists, were found at the debris after security forces searched the Pathankot airforce station when the operation ended. "Charred remains were found and sent for forensic examination. We are awaiting for reports," he had said. Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar too had said that six terrorists were involved in the attack. The National Investigation Agency, which was probing the case, has been maintaining that the investigators had found only four bodies. In the reply to a query in Lok Sabha on November 29, Minister of State for

Home Minister Rajnath Singh Home Hansraj Gangaram Ahir had said only four militants had entered the air force station to carry out the strike. "Four Pakistan-based terrorists entered Punjab via Janial road, Dhusi turn, near Ravi river bridge, Gulpur Simli village -

Akalgarh and attacked air force station in Pathankot," he said in a written reply to a question by Ravneet Singh. The Congress MP had asked about the number of terrorists who entered Punjab for Pathankot attack and the route used

by them as well as the details of terrorists killed and arrested along with the weapons recovered from them. Ahir said all these terrorists were neutralised by the security forces. The security forces recovered 4 AK rifles, 32 AK magazines, 3 pistols, 7 pistol magazines, one under barrel grenade launcher, 40 hand grenades and one dagger from them, he said. The Home Ministry had in the past been left red faced over answers to Parliament questions including one Pakistan related controversy where it informed the House that they did not know about whereabouts of most wanted terrorist Dawood Ibrahim, forcing the government to retract and clarify that Dawood was in Pakistan. (PTI)

Mamata Banerjee not accorded priority in landing despite fuel shortage. "All three aircraft had enough fuel, enough not only for holding pattern but also to land twice at the diversionary airport, which in this case was Bhubaneswar. In the landing sequence, Air India was on sixth position while IndiGo flight was on eighth slot. SpiceJet aircraft was on the last position of the three. "However, despite, this IndiGo pilot sought early

landing from the ATC saying it was short on fuel. Before giving it clearance, the ATC asked Air India pilot since it was ahead in slot, but he also reported low on fuel. Just then, SpiceJet pilot also jumped in and reported short fuel. But none of them sought priority landing as that would have put them under scrutiny," the official said. "These pilots actually played naughty. It was like cry wolf," he said.

Norms mandate an aircraft to carry enough fuel to enable hovering for 30-40 minutes as well as to carry it to the nearest diversion airport, which in this case was Bhubaneshwar. As a fallout of the entire row, all the six pilots were taken off duty for one week while the air traffic controller, who handled these flights was directed to undergo "corrective training". "The ATC was instructed to undergo corrective training as he should have taken a decision on his own," the official said. IndiGo on its part had said that its November 30 flight carrying the Trinamool Congress supremo was delayed due to congestion over Kolkata before making a normal landing and had adequate fuel. In a statement, IndiGo had said the flight made a "normal landing" at Kolkata airport and that its captain did not declare a fuel priority or an emergency, though there was some misunderstanding between ATC and the pilot. (PTI)

Demonetisation by Modi sarkar not a bold decision, it's foolish: Rahul Gandhi New Delhi, Dec. 8: Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi slammed the Narendra Modi government for its failure to efficiently implement demonetisation, causing hardships to lakhs of people across the country. Opposition parties cutting across political lines gathered at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi inside Parliament complex Thursday morning in protest, observing a one-month anniversary of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's demonetisation announcement. MPs gathered at the statue sported a black band on their arms and carried posters hitting out at the government. This protest, they said, will not include any sloganeering but a two-minute silence to pay respect to those who lost their lives as a result of demonetisation. Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi said: "Layoffs are happening, farmers are dying because of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's financial expertise. It's not a bold decision, it's foolish." Speaking about the ongoing protests in both Houses of Parliament, Rahul said the responsibility to run the House is the government's and the Speaker's. "We want a

Rahul Gandhi vote (following debate) because people from BJP will vote for us on demonetisation." "The idea behind a cashless economy is that a few people must get maximum benefits from these transactions, this has damaged the nation. He (PM Modi) is laughing, having a nice time while the people of the country are suffering. Lok Sabha mein agar mujhe bolne diya jaye toh main sab bata doonga ki Paytm kaise "PAY TO MODI" hota hai (If given a chance to speak in Lok Sabha, I will reveal how PayTM becomes Pay to Modi). Trinamool Congress said it wants to discuss demonetisation with an adjournment or under

Rule 184 but the government won't allow it. Lok Sabha leader S Bandopadhyay said the party joined the protests this morning and "observed death anniversary of Rs 500/1000 currency notes as well as paid respects to those who died of demonetisation." However, Union Minister Venkaiah Naidu responded to the protest, saying: "Ye 'kala diwas' nahi, kala dhan ke samarthan diwas hai. (This isn't a black day but the death anniversary of black money). Gandhi ji gave call for Satyagrah to see that victory of truth prevails; What are so-called namesake Gandhis doing? Observing a protest." (Agencies)

Cyclonic weather condition continues in Andamans, no casualty Port Blair, Dec. 8: With the cyclonic weather condition persisting in the Andamans, around 1,400 tourists remained stranded in two islands on Thursday and naval ships deployed for evacuation were unable to enter the harbour due to strong winds. There were, however, no reports of any casualty from either Havelock or Neil islands hit by the cyclonic weather since Monday. The rains have stopped since morning but the wind is still blowing hard. "The weather continues to be bad. Navy ships which were deployed for evacuation have not been able to enter the harbour because of strong winds

and choppy seas," a Defence official said. In the morning, two ships from the administration had sailed from Port Blair but could not berth in the jetty of the islands due to strong winds and rough seas, administration officials said. Speaking to the media after a meeting with Lt Governor Jagdish Mukhi, Deputy Commissioner of South Andamans Udit Prakash Rai said, "A decision has been taken that hotels where tourists are stranded will not take any room rent from them, besides giving them food and water for free." "The administration will make all arrangements to send tourists back home once

they are rescued," he said. Flight operations are normal since morning today. "Today we are hopeful that the stranded tourists will be brought back to Port Blair. There is no need to panic as everyone is safe," the administration official said. The official said that there was no report of any loss of life or major damages to property. However, trees in the islands have been uprooted and electric posts twisted. Besides the tourists, 600 of whom are from West Bengal, local population in ten villages of Havelock and Neil islands has been affected due to limited supply of essential commodities. (PTI)

EDUCATION

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9

PAGE 9

How to Prepare for an Exam in 10 Days Regardless of how often you take exams, they are often very frustrating. Remember, thinking of failure will often lead to failure. You need to change your attitude first. Test preparation includes a number of things that lead up to you sitting in for the actual exam. Here are some tips on what you can do to ensure success on your next test. Small efforts are enough if applied technically. Gather Your Materials Most students don't really think about what their limits are. When we don't know what to do, it's useless to think about how to prepare. First and foremost, you should be gathering your course outline and materials. Make sure that you have all the required books and your notes in front of you. If you don't have great notes, ask a peer if they're willing to help you out by lending you theirs. Before

you can succeed, you at least need to have the opportunity to do so and in order for that to happen you'll need resources. The more you have your weapons prepared, the higher your chances are of winning the battle. Believe in Yourself If you hesitate to say "I can win," you're only hindering yourself from winning. It doesn't cost you anything to say and believe that, so go ahead-make sure that at the core of your beliefs, you know you'll win. It's important that before you actually prepare for the exams themselves, you believe you'll be able to get through them. The stronger your determination, the stronger your final results will be. Don't think about your previous failures. If your determination is strong, anything is possible. Don't think about words like can't, fail, and impossible. Say out loud, "this is possible!" Believe in yourself. Allocate Your Time Wisely I was a former med student,

books but this attitude must be avoided. Make sure that you focus only on what's going to be tested. You have to be very specific and to-the-point. Many of the problems we incur in our educational career arise because we create them ourselves. Focus only on what is important and relevant, and forget the rest. Prioritize Your Schedule It's a crucial time and you'll need to prioritize your time. Fun may have to be delayed for now. so you can imagine what my course load was like. It was the lengthiest and toughest among all the degree and graduate programs. Regardless of your concentration or program, you'll get through it. I did. Make sure you give yourself 7-10 days and if you properly study and are focused, you'll be able to successfully get through the test. Have faith in God and trust in your abilities. When

you have a plate full of rice, you take it in by the spoonful. Not all at once. The same concept applies to your exam studies. Divide the workload among those 10 days equally and commit to the load you've assigned yourself on each given day. This helps to break your huge course into small, digestible pieces. Now, it is easier to get through. Focus on the Important

Material Only While studying, you'll definitely come across many irrelevant facts and pieces of information that will likely not be tested. While going the extra mile is great in life and in one's career, it's not necessary in these 10 days of studying. I've always been a student who was just fair in academics. In other words, I preferred to focus on things outside of the

Set your phone on silent mode and stop the usual wasteful texting. Don't waste time watching your usual movies and TV shows, and only listen to songs if they help you study. Parties are fun, but they'll need to wait until your exams are over-you have far more important things to achieve in this period. Promise your friends that they'll see you more after this 10-day study period.

This time is crucial in all aspects. Don't waste it on activities that can hurt your grades. Lastly, don't forget to breathe! The oxygen will help calm you and is destressing. Can I Study Everything in Just 10 Days? No, it's not possible. Your desire to do so might be just your nervous system firing off. You're pumped and hyper, and your entire body increases its metabolism almost tenfold. If this is the situation, it is nearly impossible to carry on with your whole course of subjects. You must control your present situation to study, because once your nervous system suspect's over activity, it increases the secretion of neurotransmitters that makes you ready for fight and flight. This may seem like a good thing, but the tradeoff is that there may be a degeneration of memory and creativity. That could lead to the moment of real destruction-imagine sit-

ting in the test hall and not remembering anything, despite just reading about it the night before. It's all about your attitude, and you'll need to pace yourself and try to remain calm. Cool-minded average students score higher than really tense, above average students. You have a choice here, believe me! You can do it. Just relax. General Instructions for Preparation 1. Take care of your personal health and hygiene. 2. Sleep well and rest up. Remember, "Rest is best for the test!" 3. Study periodically, and consider the exam period as a "natural event" of life. 4. Be social. Sometimes, a comforting friend helps more than any book. 5. If you have too much leisurely time on your hands and are depressed, remember that you have other things to focus on.

Smart Food: Eating 10 Tips to Study Well During Exam Time Smart and Save Time When you're studying for exams, good nutrition often slides down the priority list. However, a long exam is like a mental marathon in which endurance is critical. The right food and drink can energise your system, improve your alertness and sustain you through long exam hours. On the other hand, the wrong dietary choices can make you feel sluggish and jittery. Follow these simple tips below to help you eat your way to success!

Scott H Young I recently got my marks back from University. My grade point average was a 4.2 out of a possible 4.5, resting between an A and a perfect A+. In itself, this isn't an incredible achievement. But I managed to do this while spending only a fraction of the time studying than many of the people I knew. Is it just natural talent? Perhaps. I've always had a knack for understanding concepts and learning new ideas. But I also believe the way I learned the information played a role. Instead of cramming last minute or memorizing details, I try to organize information in a way that makes it easier to recall. This strategy of organization I label holistic learning. Holistic learning is simply the process of organizing information into webs, that interconnect ideas. Instead of forcing ideas into your skull, you focus on the relationships between information. Linking ideas together to see the whole, instead of just the parts. Building an Understanding Learning is a process similar to building a house. You aren't fed the complete picture. Limitations on communication prevent the instantaneous transmission of knowledge. Instead you listen to lectures, read textbooks and take painstaking notes to try and comprehend a subject. You are fed building supplies, bricks, mortar and glass. It is up to you to assemble the building. Unfortunately, most learning strategies fall into two basic types: 1. Memorization - Instead of building anything you simply stare at each brick for several minutes trying to record its position. 2. Formulas - This is the equivalent to being blind, fumbling around a new house. You can't see the building itself but you learn to come up with simple rules to avoid walking into walls.

There is nothing particularly wrong with either of these strategies, assuming they aren't your entire strategy. The human brain isn't a computer so it can't memorize infinite sums of knowledge without some form of structure. And formulas no longer work if the questions they are designed to solve change scope. Learning Holistically The alternative strategy is to focus on actually using the information you have to build something. This involves linking concepts together and compressing information so it fits in the bigger picture. Here are some ideas to get started: 1. Metaphor - Metaphors can allow you to quickly organize information by comparing a complex idea to a simple one. When you find relationships between information, come up with analogies to increase your understanding. Compare neurons with waves on a string. Make metaphors comparing parts of a brain with sections of your computer. 2. Use All Your Senses Abstract ideas are difficult to memorize because they are far removed from our senses. Shift them closer by coming up with vivid pictures, feelings and images that relate information together. When I learned how to do a determinant of a matrix, I remembered the pattern by visualizing my hands moving through the numbers, one adding and one subtracting.

3. Teach It - Find someone who doesn't understand the topic and teach it to them. This exercise forces you to organize. Spending five minutes explaining a concept can save you an hour of combined studying for the same effect. 4. Leave No Islands When you read through a textbook, every piece of information should connect with something else you have learned. Fast learners do this automatically, but if you leave islands of information, you won't be able to reach them during a test. 5. Test Your Mobility - A good way to know you haven't linked enough is that you can't move between concepts. Open up a word document and start explaining the subject you are working with. If you can't jump between sections, referencing one idea to help explain another, you won't be able to think through the connections during a test. 6. Find Patterns - Look for patterns in information. Information becomes easier to organize if you can identify broader patterns that are similar across different topics. The way a neuron fires has similarities to "if" statements in programming languages. 7. Build a Large Foundation - Reading lots and having a general understanding of many topics gives you a lot more flexibility in finding patterns

and metaphors in new topics. The more you already know, the easier it is to learn. 8. Don't Force - I don't spend much time studying before exams. Forcing information during the last few days is incredibly inefficient. Instead try to slowly interlink ideas as they come to you so studying becomes a quick recap rather than a first attempt at learning. 9. Build Models - Models are simple concepts that aren't true by themselves, but are useful for describing abstract ideas. Crystallizing one particular mental image or experience can create a model you can reference when trying to understand. When I was trying to tackle the concept of subspaces, I visualized a blue background with a red plane going through it. This isn't an entirely accurate representation of what a subspace is, but it created a workable image for future ideas. 10. Learning is in Your Head - Having beautiful notes and a perfectly highlighted textbook doesn't matter if you don't understand the information in it. Your only goal is to understand the information so it will stick with you for assignments, tests and life. Don't be afraid to get messy when scrawling out ideas on paper and connecting them in your head. Use notes and books as a medium for learning rather than an end result.

Don't skip meals, particularly breakfast Despite the brain being one of the smallest organs in the body, it uses up to 20% of the energy we need every day. Keeping a steady supply of glucose (energy) throughout the day, will ensure you do not lose concentration during both your study and exam times. When you wake up, your body hasn't had any food for several hours. Breakfast gives us the energy we need to face the day, as well as some essential vitamins and minerals. Check out our information 'Breakfast - a Great Start to Your Day' for some fantastic breakfast suggestions, even if you're short on time. Time is precious choose quick and healthy meals The key to achieving the right balance is to enjoy a wide variety of foods, as no single food can provide all the nutrients your body needs. This can easily be overlooked at exam times since the temptation is to prioritise fast foods - in other words, meals that involve little shopping, little preparation and little mess so that precious time can be devoted to study. This is particularly true if you are living away from home and have only yourself to rely on for meal preparation. Try to avoid the pitfall of eating only high-fat, nutrient-poor food choices like frozen dinners and take away meals, just because they are convenient, by trying some of

the super-easy suggestions below: Breakfast Ø Wholegrain cereal with milk and glass of orange juice Ø Wholemeal bread toasted with chopped banana and glass of milk Lunch or Tea Ø Bowl of vegetable soup and wholemeal bread with an apple and yoghurt ØChicken / tuna salad wrap and pure fruit smoothie Ø Baked beans on whole-grain toast ØBaked potato topped with tinned tuna, baked beans or grated cheese Scrambled egg on toast with grilled tomato TOP-TIP! A 'baked' potato can be easily prepared in a microwave in about 5 minutes Dinner ØChicken or beef stir fry with noodles Ø Egg omelette with cheese and baked potato Ø Pasta with tinned tuna topped with cheese TOP TIP! Frozen vegetables are packed with nutrients and are great when you are pressed for time.

Prepare, Prepare, Prepare! You have heard this a thousand times in relation to study, but preparing some home-made meals and freezing them in individual portions can be a life-saver at exam times. This way you get to eat healthy food without the hassle of shopping, chopping and washing up! All you have to think about is taking it out of the freezer the night before! Smart snacking Opt for healthy snacks such as fresh fruit, popcorn, fruit scones, dried fruit, yoghurt or nuts to keep you going throughout the day. These are better choices than cakes, biscuits, chocolate and sweets that are high in refined sugars that give you a 'sugar rush' after eating them but leave you feeling flat and in a bit of a slump shortly afterwards. If you are taking a long exam and are worried about concentration levels falling, take a healthy snack with you to eat either during or before the exam. Keep hydrated - aim for 1.5 to 2L of fluid per day Dehydration can make you feel lethargic, irritable and tired. Worst of all, it affects your concentration which may make it more difficult to study and perform to your best.

Keep a glass of fluid (fruit juice, herbal teas, water) within easy reach while studying and take a bottle of water into the exam (if you can). Try to reduce your intake of drinks that contain caffeine, such as tea, coffee and some colas as they can act as mild diuretics. This causes the body to lose fluid and increase the need to use the toilet, which is not ideal during an exam! Although some studies suggest that small amounts of coffee can make us alert, other studies suggest that taking excess caffeine can upset our blood sugars which can affect your concentration levels. Work, rest and play All work and no play made Jack a dull boy. It also makes Jack a tired and stressed boy. Adequate sleep is essential to ensure you can recall the information you have worked so hard to learn as well as to absorb the new information you read. Allow yourself time to relax before bedtime. Avoid caffeinecontaining drinks late at night. To help relieve stress, clear your mind and lift your mood, break up your study with short bursts of exercise. You could go for a jog, a swim, a cycle, or even just walk to your local shop.

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9

Russia, China veto UN resolution seeking ceasefire in Aleppo United Nation, Dec 08: Russia and China vetoed a United Nations (UN) Security Council resolution seeking a seven-day ceasefire in the war-torn Syrian city of Aleppo. Reports state that Venezuela also voted against the resolution, however, the remaining 11 council members were in favour of the ceasefire in Aleppo to provide humanitarian aid. Reports state that the Syrian government forces have taken a majority of the besieged rebel-held areas in Aleppo, causing more than 10,000 civilians to flee the violence-struck region as the forces pressed for an offensive. Rebels have, for months, been engaged in battle with the Syrian government and their Russian allies in eastern Aleppo, and want to topple the government. The Syrian government had also refused the United

Nations offer for a truce in battle-struck Aleppo last month and asked the rebels in the region to withdraw. The UN had proposed a truce in Aleppo by asking the Syrian government to grant autonomy to rebel-held regions of eastern Aleppo in exchange for peace. This was the sixth time Russia blocked a resolution proposed by the UN council on the ongoing Syrian conflict which began in March 2011. This was China's fifth time blocking a UN resolution for Aleppo truce. Russia is a close ally of the Syrian President Bashar alAssad and on several occasions has expressed its reservation to the ceasefire proposal in Aleppo. Moscowalso attempted to postpone the recent voting of the resolution until Tuesday; however, the main supporters of the resolution, Paris, London and Washington, decided

to go ahead with it. Russian and US officials are scheduled to meet in Geneva, and the Russian side said that the talks will mainly concern about a plan to make all the rebel fighters in the eastern Aleppo to be withdrawn from the region. Russia's UN ambassador Vitaly Churkin said that both the sides are "close to an agreement on the basic elements." However, deputy US ambassador Michele Sison said that there was no such agreement made with Russia and accused Churkin of making up an alibi. "We will not let Russia string along the Security Council. We will continue bilateral negotiations (with Russia) to relieve the suffering in Aleppo, but we have not reached a breakthrough because Russia wants to keep its military gains," Sison said. (Agencies)

China: 11 miners dead in coal mine accident The Badong government has ordered a safety overhaul and production suspension for all mines in the county, state-run Xinhua news agency reported on Thursday. all mines in the county, state-run Xinhua news agency reported on Thursday. This is the third major mine accident in recent days. Last week, at least 53 people were killed after two separate explosions rocked coal mines in northern China. All 11 workers trapped in a coal mine in central China's Hubei province following a gas explosion have died, taking the death toll in the recent mine accidents in the world's top coal-producing country to 64.

Beijing, Dec 08: All 11 workers trapped in a coal mine in central China's Hubei province following a gas explosion have died, taking the death toll in the recent mine accidents in the world's top coal-producing country to 64. The accident took place on Monday in Xinjia

Coal Mine in Badong County. Five managed to escape straight after the explosion, leaving 11 trapped. The cause of the mine accident is being investigated. The Badong government has ordered a safety overhaul and production suspension for

Thirty-two people were killed following an explosion at a coal mine in Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region and 21 workers trapped in a coal mine in China after an explosion on Novemeber 30 were confirmed dead. Demand for coal in energy hungry China increases especially in winter as the it is extensively used for heating. (PTI)

Pak, US discuss Kashmir, LoC tensions Washington, Dec 08: Pakistan and the US have discussed the regional situation, including Kashmir and the escalation of tensions at the Indo-Pak border, with Washington calling for a dialogue to resolve issues. The issues were discussed during a meeting between Special Assistant to Pakistan Prime Minister (SAPM) Syed Tariq Fatemi and Deputy Secretary of State Antony Blinken here, a Pakistan Embassy statement said. "The regional situation including the escalation across the Line of Control and the Working Boundary were discussed during the meeting. The SAPM briefed the Deputy Secretary on the frequency of ceasefire violations by India in recent weeks with particular reference to targeting of civilians across the LoC," the statement said. Fatemi also accused India of "human rights violations" in Kashmir which he claimed had resulted in "hundreds of casualties and debilitating injuries to the civilians including

women and children". "While expressing concern on the increasing escalation at the LoC, Deputy Secretary Blinken reiterated the US position on the need for reducing tension in South Asia and promoting closer cooperation and dialogue between the two largest countries of the region," the statement said. During the meeting, Fatemi asserted that Pakistan would be forthcoming in cooperating with new Donald Trump administration, in achieving peace in Afghanistan and improving Indo-Pak relationship for the sake of peace in the region, it said. Fatemi expressed hope that after the completion of ongoing transition process, the two sides would resume their regular engagement on the bilateral track. "The two sides expressed satisfaction on several achievements in areas of peace and security, counter terrorism, defence and economic cooperation. It was agreed that Pakistan-US rela-

P10

INTERNATIONAL

tionship was important to regional as well as global peace and security and should continue to be strengthened under the next Administration," the statement said. Meanwhile, talking about the meeting, State Department Deputy Spokesperson Mark Toner, said, "They discussed a range of bilateral and regional issues, including regional stability and counter-terrorism cooperation." Fatemi, who is on a US visit, also interacted with mainstream US print and electronic media at the Pakistan Embassy on Monday. Fatemi apprised the media that he is currently visiting US to have interaction with the current US Administration and to reach out to the officials likely to join the new administration following the recent US Presidential election. Fatemi stated that Pakistan was looking forward to working closely with the new US Administration and wanted the bilateral relations to be further strengthened in future. (PTI)

Ships, jets, giant crowd mark Pearl Harbor anniversary event The crowd bowed their heads on Wednesday at the precise moment decades ago when Japanese planes began their assault on the U.S. naval base at the harbor. Pearl Harbor, Dec 08: Thousands observed a moment of silence and watched jets streak across the clear blue sky at a ceremony at Pearl Harbor, marking the 75th anniversary of the attack that plunged the United States into World War II and left more than 2,300 service people dead. The crowd bowed their heads on Wednesday at the precise moment decades ago when Japanese planes began their assault on the U.S. naval base at the harbor. And they stood and clapped when a few dozen survivors joined activeduty servicemen and women and National Park Service rangers in dedicating wreaths to those killed. Attendees also gave a lengthy ovation to Adm Harry Harris of the U.S. Pacific Command when he spoke in favor of standing for the national anthem. "You can bet that the men

and women we honour today and those who died that fateful morning 75 years ago never took a knee and never failed to stand whenever they heard our national anthem being played," Harris said to nearly a minute of clapping, whistles and whoops. The anniversary is tribute to "what freedom does when it is faced with fascism," said Paul Hilliard of the National World War II Museum. "America went abroad to gain freedom for millions of other people," said Hilliard, a Marine veteran and one of several dignitaries and officials who presented wreaths for the fallen at a memorial over the sunken hull of USS Arizona. "We are kind of unique. We are an exceptional nation." Wednesday's ceremony started with the USS Halsey sounding its whistle to mark the start

A Navy sailor salutes the USS Arizona memorial as the USS Halsey passes by the memorial, Wednesday, Dec. 7, 2016, in Honolulu. Survivors of the Japanese attack, dignitaries and ordinary citizens attended a ceremony at Kilo Pier to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Japanese attack on the naval harbor

of the moment of silence at 7:55 AM. It ended with F-22 fighter jets flying in formation overhead. Harris told the crowd that the servicemen attacked at Pearl Harbor "engaged the enemy as best they could," and there is sorrow for those who died. "Yet we are also inspired by their great gift to the

world the gift of freedom itself," he said. His comments about the national anthem come after San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick and others have knelt through the song in recent months to protest police brutality and the treatment of minorities, drawing criticism and ac-

claim alike. Reached later, Pacific Command spokesman Robert Shuford said Harris' remarks "speak for themselves." The event wrapped up with Marines firing a gun salute and the Pacific Fleet band playing taps. Laura Stoller accompanied her adoptive grandfather and Pearl Harbor survivor Stan VanHoose of Beloit, Wisconsin, to the ceremony. At one point, she watched as crowds jostled for autographs and photos with survivors. "All of these men who for so long didn't get the recognition they deserve they're soaking it up. And it's so fun to see," Stoller said. VanHoose, 96, served on the USS Maryland. Fellow survivor Jim Downing of Colorado Springs, Colorado, said he returns to Hawaii for the anniversary commemorations to be with his shipmates. (Agencies)

40 cadres of Nepal's India 'defiant and intransigent' opposition CPN-UML to resumption of talks: Pakistan held for protest Foreign Office spokesperson Nafees Zakaria said talks with India should not be for the sake of it but result-oriented and sustainable.

Members of the ethnic Madhesi people have been protesting Nepal's new constitution, saying it divides the Madhesis among a number of states across Nepal. Kathmandu, Dec 08: At least 40 cadres of the main opposition party CPN-UML have been arrested while protesting against the Constitution amendment bill in Nepal. Twenty one party activists were allegedly injured by police while demonstrating against the bill that will address the demands of the agitating Madhesi parties and the other ethnic groups. The opposition parties have been opposing the bill registered in the Parliament that aims to divide parts of the Province No 5 and merge them into the Terai region bordering India. Meanwhile, CPN-UML issued a statement asking the government to immediately

release its party workers arrested during the demonstration. Nepal opposition parties UML, CPN-ML, Rastriya Janamorcha and Nepal Workers Peasants Party had also obstructed the parliament proceedings against the constitution amendment proposal. Speaker Onsari Gharti had then postponed the Parliament meeting until 3 PM today. Nepal has been facing political crisis since the adoption of a new Constitution in September last year that divides the country into seven provinces. The agitating Madhesi parties want the hilly districts not to be mixed with the plains while demarcating the provincial boundaries. (PTI)

"Dozens killed & wounded in west Iraq air strike" Baghdad, Dec 8 : An air strike in the jihadist-held western Iraqi town of Al-Qaim, near the Syrian border, has killed and wounded dozens of civilians, the parliament speaker said. Speaker Salim al-Juburi yesterday condemned in a statement the air strike "that targeted a market area for civilians and resulted in the death and injury of dozens of them." He said he "holds the government responsible for such mistakes" and demanded the immediate launch of an investigation into the alleged strike. If confirmed, the blunder would be one of the worst cases of civilians being killed in strikes in Iraq since the start of the air campaign against the Islamic State group in 2014. Officials in Anbar, the western province in which Al-Qaim is located, said dozens were killed in the afternoon strike, although AFP could not reach sources in the town to confirm the casualty toll. A spokesman for the provincial council of Anbar claimed the strike was carried out by an Iraqi aircraft in the afternoon and demanded a government probe. "The strike hit a market at peak hour, there were retirees queue-

ing up pick up their pension, people collecting salaries and social security payments," Eid Ammash said. "Entire families were killed," Ammash said. Maath al-Jughaifi, a tribal leader in Haditha, the nearest city, said "between 70 people and 80 people were killed" in Al-Qaim but claimed the strike was carried out by the US-led coalition that has carried out thousands of strikes against IS. There was no immediate comment from Iraq's Joint Operations Command supervising the fight against IS or from the US-led coalition. Amaq, an IS-affiliated propaganda website, released a video purporting to show the aftermath of the strike and claimed 120 people were killed. AFP could not authenticate the footage, which showed devastation in a market area and a large number of dead and wounded strewn across the street or being treated. Al-Qaim lies a few kilometres from the border with Syria, around 320 kilometres (200 miles) west of the capital Baghdad, and is the last major town in Anbar still under IS control. (AFP)

Islamabad, Dec 08: Pakistan today accused India of being "defiant and intransigent" to resumption of talks and said any bilateral dialogue should be result-oriented leading to the resolution of the Kashmir issue. Foreign Office spokesperson Nafees Zakaria said talks with India should not be for the sake of it but result-oriented and sustainable and regretted that despite a number of gestures by Pakistan, "India remains defiant and intransigent to resumption of dialogue," according to a Radio Pakistan report. Pakistan believes the international community has a role to play in the resolution of the Kashmir dispute and welcomes US Vice President-elect Mike Pence's statement on mediation on the issue. Pence had told an Ameri-

can network that US President-elect Donald Trump can use his "extraordinary deal-making skills" to lessen tensions and solve problems around the world when he was asked whether Trump can be a mediator in deciding Kashmir. Pakistan has previously welcomed the statements of Trump, the UN secretary-general and friendly countries such as China and Iran, Zakaria said. He said India has so far denied undertaking any fact-finding mission to Kashmir but the international community will have to make New Delhi accept such demands. The Foreign Office spokesperson condemned "blatant human rights violations" by Indian security forces in Kashmir. On a question of India's focus on purchasing arms

for its forces, he said the "consequent conventional asymmetry" due to the action poses threat to regional peace and stability. He said Pakistan does not want to indulge in arms race and believes scarce resources of the region should be devoted to socio-economic uplift of the people. About the recently-concluded Heart of Asia Conference in Amritsar, which was attended by Pakistan Prime Minister's Adviser on Foreign Affairs, Zakaria said India resorted to negativity during the meeting to hide its crimes in Kashmir. "This also exposed India's claims of commitment to the prospects of peace in Afghanistan as it misused a platform meant for promoting peace and stability in the war torn country," he said. (PTI)

Have voiced concern to Pakistan over terror safe havens: US The US has also voiced concern after India and Afghanistan hit out at Pakistan at the Heart of Asia conference for tolerance of terror safe havens. Washington, Dec 08: The US has said it has voiced concern to the Pakistani leadership over the country's tolerance of terror safe havens for Afghan Taliban groups like the dreaded Haqqani Network, days after India and Afghanistan hit out at Islamabad for its support to extremist outfits. "We have consistently expressed our concerns to the highest levels of Government of Pakistan about their continued tolerance for Afghan Taliban groups such as the Haqqani Network operating from Pakistan soil," State Department Deputy Spokesperson Mark Toner told reporters. "We continue to encourage the Government of Pakistan and Afghanistan, rather - both governments to cooperate in their counter-terrorism operations and efforts because that's only going to contribute to regional stability," Toner said in response to a question. Meanwhile, Special Adviser to the Pakistan Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Tariq Fatemi met Under Secre-

The US have expressed its concerns to Pakistan with regard to tolerance for Afghan Taliban groups operating from Pakistani soil tary of State Tony Blinken on December 5."They discussed a range of bilateral and regional issues, including regional stability and counter-terrorism cooperation," Toner said. Toners remarks come days after India and Afghanistan hit out at an isolated Pakistan at the Heart of Asia conference for sponsoring and supporting terrorism and called for "resolute action" against terrorists as well as their masters. Short of naming Paki-

stan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his inaugural address at the Heart of Asia meet had said,"The growing arc of terrorist violence endangers our entire region. As such, support for voices of peace in Afghanistan alone is not enough." Afghan President Ashraf Ghani had accused Pakistan of launching an "undeclared war" against his country by covertly supporting terror networks including the Taliban. (PTI)

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9

P11

BUSINESS

Sensex zooms over 450 points, China likely to import more Nifty reclaims 8,200-mark food grains as output declines Mumbai, Dec 08: The benchmark Sensex surged over 450 points in mid-session trade Thursday taking a lead from overseas, with the Dow surging to a record for the third straight session. Also, the broader NSE Nifty again went past the key 8,200-mark in the process. The 30-share index was trading higher by 452.34 points or 1.72 percent at 26,689.21 after moving in range of 26,721.9326,357.35. The gauge had lost 155.89 points in the previous session yesterday following the RBIdecision to leave interest rates unchanged

Image for Representation purpose. that caught the market by surprise. Also, the NSE Nifty regained the key 8,200mark by rising 135.55 points or 1.67 percent to 8,237.60. Overseas rally has been sparked by hopes President-elect Donald Trump

Rupee good run continues, gains 19 paise in early trade

and the Republican-led Congress will enact policies that fuel stronger growth and loosen regulation in the world`s biggest economy. Hopes of stimulus extension by the European Central Bank (ECB) also supported the market senti-

ment. The European Central Bank is widely expected to prolong massive monetary stimulus today to spur an economy crimped by a rise in political uncertainty as exemplified by Trump`s upset win, Brexit and the rise of the far right in Europe. In the Asian region, the Nikkei 225 rose 1.45 percent, or 268.78 points, to end at 18,765.47, while the broader Topix index of all first-section issues gained 1.48 percent, or 22.07 points, to 1,512.69. The US Dow Jones Industrial Average ended at a new high by rising 1.55 per cent in yesterday's trade. (Agencies)

Beijing, Dec 08: China is likely to import more grains after its output this year dippedby about 5.2 million tonnes compared with last year as the planting area shrank and per unit yield edged down, according to official data. National grain output stood at about 616 million tonnes in 2016, down by about 5.2 million tonnes, about 0.8 per cent, compared with last year, data released by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said. Grain planting area has shrunk by 3.15 lakh hectares, while the per unit yield dropped by 30.7 kilograms per hectare, it said.

Mumbai, Dec 08: The rupee gained 19 paise to 67.44 against the dollar in early trade today on sustained selling of the US currency by exporters and banks amid a higher opening in the domestic equity market amid foreign fund inflows. This was the third consecutive day of rise for the domestic currency. Forex dealers said weakness in the dollar against other currencies overseas supported the rupee.

A higher opening in the domestic equity market gave the uptrend some momentum, they added. Yesterday, the domestic unit gained 27 paise to end at over three-week high of 67.63 even as the Reserve Bank unexpectedly left policy rates unchanged. Meanwhile, the benchmark BSE Sensex rose 285.05 points, or 1.09 per cent, to 26,521.92 in early session today. (PTI)

Gold futures decline Rs 59 on profit-booking

with the Communist nation resorting to massive grain imports in recent years not commensurate with growth of population which is over 1.3 billion. Grain production last year was over 621 million tonnes, higher than 2014's 607 million tonnes. Excluding imports the supply was 25 million tonnes less than what was needed, China's Agricultural MinisterHan Changfu said. "More people will live in cities. Compared with rural residents, urban dwellers eat less rice, but consume more meat, eggs, milk, fruits and vegetables. Based on our calculation, a person living in cities generally consumes

far more agricultural products than a person living in villages," he was quoted as saying by Hong Kong media in March this year. Han said the large amount of grain imports were due to the shortage of specific products and lower prices in international market. Among the 120 million tonnes of grain imported, more than 80 million tonnes were beans that came mainly from the US and Brazil. The rest were mostly cereals. During the 13th five-year plan, which started this year the country will not pursue a continuous growth of grain output, but a bigger capacity, the minister said. (PTI)

Pakistan lifts ban on RBI may cut rates by up to Indian cotton imports 50 bps next year: Kotak Earlier, the Ministry of National Food Security and Research put cotton imports from India on hold through Wagah and Karachi port from November 23.

An Indian one rupee coin is seen in this picture illustration taken in Mumbai

Facing unbalanced supply and demand among grain varieties, many areas reduced corn planting in favour of soy and used the grain for feedstuff and oil, to Huang Bingxin, a senior statistician with NBS said. The reduction in the planting area impacted highyield grain and severe national extreme weather such as drought and heavy rain also dented grain productivity, Huang was quoted as saying by state-run Xinhua news agency today. As it resorted massive urbanisation, converting the largely agrarian country into urban settlements, China's agricultural output slowed over the years

Islamabad, Dec 08: Pakistan has lifted an "undeclared" ban on import of ginned cotton from India, days after rejecting a consignment of 10,000 bales of cotton from India citing violation of plant quarantine rules by importers. Earlier, the Department of Plant Protection (DPP) of the Ministry of National Food Security and Research put cotton imports from India on hold through Wagah and Karachi port from November 23, saying the shipments did not fulfil phyto-sanitary conditions, Dawn newspaper reported. The rising border tensions between the two neighbours had prompted Islamabad to impose the ban on 10,000 bales of cotton worth USD 3.3 million from India. "The DPP has started issuing permits for importing cotton from India via Wagah. But the DPP has also made it clear to importers that only the consignments free from cotton seeds will be accepted and allowed into the coun-

The rising border tensions between the two neighbours had prompted Islamabad to impose the ban on 10,000 bales of cotton worth .3 million from India.

try," a DPP official said. "If implemented strictly, we will not be able to import cotton from any country in the world, let alone India, because no consignment is completely free from cotton seeds," he said. Last year, Pakistan imported ginned cotton worth more than USD 800 million from India which accounted for two-thirds of India's cotton exports. Traders are expecting cotton imports from India and elsewhere to surge

this year in view of the anticipated shortfall in the domestic crop while the government expects cotton output to remain close to 10.5 million bales of 170kg each against a reduced industry demand of 14 million bales owing to widespread factory closures in Punjab because of higher energy prices. Last year, a drop of 27 per cent in domestic cotton output shaved 0.5 per cent of gross domestic product growth rate of Pakistan. (PTI)

New Delhi, Dec 8: The rate cut cycle may not be over, and the Reserve Bank may go for a 25-50 bps cut in calender year 2017, as the underlying disinflationary forces are expected to continue next year, says a report. RBI surprised with a status quo on policy, premised on upside risk to January-March quarter inflation and limited transient growth drag owing to demonetisation. According to Kotak Institutional Equities, "The tone was hawkish and we do not rule out another status quo in February, albeit contingent on the CSO advance estimate of FY2017 GVA". If the CSO's advance estimates of GVA indicate a significant slippage in third quarter (October-December) of FY2016-17 growth compared to RBI's estimate, "RBI may favour a cut in February", the report said. On December 7, RBI kept interest rate unchanged despite calls for lowering it while it slashed the economic growth projection by half a per cent to 7.1 in the first policy review post

On December 7, RBI kept interest rate unchanged despite calls for lowering it. demonetisation. Even as RBI sharply lowered its real GVA forecast for FY2017 by 50 bps to 7.1 per cent, it noted that the revision is largely owing to the downside surprise in the second quarter of FY2016-17. As per RBI's assessment, the negative impact of demonetisation on growth would be to the tune of around 15 bps and is likely be transitory. However, according to Kotak Institutional Equities' assessment, based on estimated sectoral cash dependency, the impact on growth is likely to be "much

higher". "While we do see medium-term economic gains, short-term disruption could slow FY2017 real GVA growth at 6.4 per cent," the report said. On prices, the report said that while the JanuaryMarch inflation target of 5 per cent being comfortably met, inflation is likely to inch lower as we go into FY2018 (averaging around 4.2-4.3 per cent). This should keep RBI's stance accommodative, with case for further 2550 bps cut possible in CY2017. The next monetary policy meet is on February 8. (PTI)

World Bank cancels USD Demonetisation: Old Rs 500 notes not 100 million loan for Pakistan to be accepted at railways, buses and metro after December 10

Gold rose 0.4% to $1,178.36 an ounce in Singapore

New Delhi, Dec 08: Gold prices fell by Rs 59 to Rs 27,855 per 10 ten grams in futures trading today as participants indulged in profit-booking at prevailing levels even as the metal strengthened overseas. At the Multi Commodity Exchange, gold for delivery in far-month April declined by Rs 59, or 0.21% to Rs 27,855 per 10 grams in a busi-

ness turnover of six lots. Similarly, the metal for delivery in February eased by Rs 8 or 0.03% to Rs 27,903 per ten grams in 361 lots. Analysts attributed the fall in gold futures to profit-booking by traders at existing levels but a firm trend in global market, capped the fall. Globally, gold rose 0.4% to $1,178.36 an ounce in Singapore. (PTI)

New Delhi, Dec 08: The government has cut short the deadline of using old Rs 500 notes at railways, bus and metros. After December 10, old Rs 500 will not be accepted. As per earlier guidelines, old notes were to be accepted for the other utility bill payments as well as at railway ticketing counters and counters of government or public sector undertaking

buses for purchase of tickets till December 15. With effect from December 3, 2016, old Rs 500 notes were banned for purchase of petrol, diesel and gas at the stations operating under authorisation of public sector oil marketing companies and for buying airline tickets at airport counters. While junking old 500 and 1,000 rupee notes on November 8, the government

Mumbai, Dec 08: The Reserve Bank of India today fixed the reference rate of the rupee at 67.43 against the US dollar and 72.61 for the euro. The corresponding rates were 67.87 and 72.75 yesterday. According to a RBI statement, the exchange rates

for the pound and the yen against the rupee were 85.24 and 59.44 per 100 yens, respectively, based on reference rates for the dollar and cross-currency quotes at noon. The SDRrupee figure will be based on this rate, the statement added. (PTI)

had allowed their use for utility bill payments for 72 hours. This deadline was extended twice and when the last one was to expire on November 24, it amended it to state that only the old 500 rupee notes could be used for payment of utility bills like electricity and water, school fees, prepaid mobile top-up, fuel purchase and airline ticket booking. (Agencies)

Hyperloop train runs faster than aircraft! Travel from Mumbai to Pune in less than half an hour

RBI sets rupee reference rate at 67.43 against dollar Bengaluru/New Delhi, Dec 08: Elon Musk-backed Hyperloop Transportation Technologies (HTT) is ready to build Hyperloop between Mumbai and Pune. Hyperloop runs faster than an aircraft at a speed of 1,120

kmph. You can reach from Mumbai to Pune in just 25 minutes. Hyperloop train between Chennai to Bengaluru is also being contemplated. Company's Co-Founder Bibop G Gresta has said the decision is left with Union Transport

The ministry of petroleum and natural gas was keen on the reduction of UFG, which was on the rise at the time of the project preparation and increased further during the project implementation phase.

Minister Nitin Gadkari to go ahead with the project. Among the prominent cities and countries where the Hyperloop will be built are California, Utah, Illinois, Florida, Indianapolis, Canada, Mexico, Chile, Spain, France, Slovakia, Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Botswana, South Africa, Russia, China, Malaysia, India, Indonesia and Australia. Gresta said the company has received an investment of over USD 100 to build Hyperloop in these countries and cities around the globe. "We have received over 100 million dollars to build Hyperloop in as many as 20 countries," he said. Replying to a query, Gresta said the first Hyperloop is expected to be launched in Abu Dhabi.(Agencies)

Illegal connections, one of the drivers of UFG, were increasing at a rate faster than the countervailing reduction of technical losses. Islamabad, Dec 08: The World Bank has cancelled a $ 100 million loan to Pakistan for a natural gas efficiency project due to no progress in achieving the development objectives and a lack of interest on the part of the gas distribution company. The project, which was to be carried out by Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) in its distribution areas in Karachi, interior Sindh and Balochistan, was aimed at enhancing the supply of natural gas by reducing physical and commercial losses of gas in the pipeline system. A World Bank report said the failure of the project led

to its closure and, as a result, the levels of unaccounted-for gas (UFG) remained high while continuing to drain the precious natural resource, Dawn reported. Illegal connections, one of the drivers of UFG, were increasing at a rate faster than the countervailing reduction of technical losses. Justifying its rating of "unsatisfactory", the World Bank report said it should have exercised caution and not proceeded with a project that did not receive sustained interest from the board and management of SSGC, which had insufficient ownership in the project.

Against the original commitment of $ 200m, the bank had disbursed only $ 0.25m. The ministry of petroleum and natural gas was keen on the reduction of UFG, which was on the rise at the time of the project preparation and increased further during the project implementation phase. Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (Ogra) had imposed a penalty on gas companies for UFG beyond the benchmark of 4.5 per cent. Bureaucratic processes within SSGC also contributed to procurement delays and bid expiration. The SSGC management attributed the failure of the project to the procurement process. Most of UFG comes from dilapidated or deteriorating pipelines, leaking joints, gas theft in the form of tampered-with metres, illegal connections and malfunctioning metering equipment. The World Bank undertook a strategic review of the project, which identified strong implementation challenges with no progress towards achieving the development objectives of the project as well as no disbursement against project-related activities. (PTI)

cmyk

DIBRUGARH, FRIDAY, DECEMBER 9

P12 India v England, 4th Test: India hit back with late strikes after Jennings ton

Keaton Jennings New Delhi, Dec 8 : Ravichandran Ashwin took the centre stage late in the day as India roared back into the contest after Keaton Jennings had driven England into a strong position with a debut century. At the close of play on the opening day of the fourth Test at Wankhede in Mumbai, England were 272/5 thanks largely to Jennings 112. India will be content with their performance which was driven by Ashwin's 4/69 - three of the scalps coming in the final session. With the score 196/2 at tea break and a set pair in the middle, Alastair Cook must have thought England have done a more than an impressive job by keeping Indian spinners at bay on track which is already turning and gripping. England switched a

gear with Moeen Ali carving Ravindra Jadeja for a four and a six over deep midwicket right after the start of the third session. He then slog swept Jayant Yadav for two fours in three deliveries and England were now beginning to dominate. But there's a reason why Ravichandran Ashwin is the top-ranked bowler in the world currently and in three deliveries, he shifted the momentum in India's favour. Ali, moments after completing his halfcentury, played one shot too many, top edging a sweep to Karun Nair off Ashwin. A delivery later, Jennings, who looked in top control while playing on the front foot, ended up edging one to gully where Cheteshwar Pujara completed a good catch to end his memorable knock. Jonny Bairstow

soon followed him to the dressing room, caught in the deep for 14 off Ashwin. Before the late strikes, Jennings became the 19th England batsman to hit a century on Test debut, carrying his rich domestic form to international level. After a nervy startm he slowly settled in, going on the back foot to pull with aplomb and stretching forward to play crisp drives. The most memorable of his shots was a reverse sweep for four that took him to three figures. His temperament and confidence was on full display as he pulled out a surprise reverse-sweep to release the pressure the Indian spinners had steadily following the dismissal of Joe Root who was given a life when Parthiv Patel missed a stumping chance. But

thanks to Virat Kohli's superb reflexes in the slips as he made late adjustment to complete a sharp catch, ending Root's knock at 21. That dismissal signaled a change in momentum as the spinners took over, troubling the new man Ali with turn and bounce. Jennings though broke the shackles with two stunning fours employing reverse sweep and a cover drive. The proceedings were briefly halted when Bhuvneshwar Kumar's loopy throw from the deep caught umpire Paul Reiffel flush in the head. He left the field after being briefly attended by the England physio and was replaced by Marais Erasmus. Ashwin tried luring Jennings into drives but the left-hander stood up to the challenge, not falling for them. He refrained from playing any rash shot considering the help India were extracting from the pitch. Cook, expectedly, opted to bat after winning his second toss in a row and for company at the top had debutant Jennings, who became his 11th opening partner in the last four years. Both began nervously. Cook edged Bhuvneshwar past the gully fielder early on for his first boundary while Jennings was given a life when he was yet to open his account as Karun failed to hold on to a difficult catch at gully. But right afterwards, he gathered himself to score back-to back fours - a neat cut past the point region followed by a confident pull. Ashwin was soon drafted in to bowl the eighth over and extracted extra bounce and turn but was dealt with appropriately. Bhuvnes

HIGHLIGHTS

India v England, 4th Test: First instance of no Mumbai cricketer playing on home ground

Keaton Jennings scored a century on debut Offspinner Ravi Ashwin picked up 4/75 England ended the day at 288/5 hwar continued from the other end, bowling a rather long eight-over spell that ended after Jennings cover-drove and pulled him for two boundaries before the drinks-break. The pitch has been predicted to assist spinners more by the end of the day and Ashwin put his rubber stamp on it when he drew Cook forward but the ball turned to beat the edge. However, with pace from the other end, England kept a positive intent to score runs and soon offspinner Jayant Yadav was pressed into action to join Ashwin as the session drew to a close. Cook then struck consecutive boundaries off Ashwin which was followed by Jennings completing his half-century. Cook was uncharacteristically positive and often danced down the track and even converted them into boundaries. However, it was one such charge that resulted in his fall as he was stumped off Ravindra Jadeja on 46. Ben Stokes (25*) and Jus Buttler (18*) were then subjected to a stern test and they survived the nervy phase, remaining unbeaten. Brief scores: England 288/5 (Jennings 112; Moeen 50) vs India (Ashwin 4/75)

Ajinkya Rahane has been ruled out from the remainder of the series. (AFP image)

Mumbai, Dec 8 : For the first time since India played their first e v e r Te s t h e r e i n 1933, no Mumbai player could make it to the playing eleven of a Test played in the nursery of the country's cricket. Although Mumbai player Shardul Thakur was included in the squad for the fourth India-England Test that commended on Thursday at the Wankhede Stadium, he was not included in the playing XI at the eleventh hour to mark a rare happening. Since 1933 when the Bombay Gymkhana, also in South Mumbai,

played host to the first Test not only in this city but in the entire country, no Indian team has been without a Mumbai player in the eleven. However with Ajinkya Rahane being ruled out of the remainder of the series after sustaining a finger injury during practice on Wednesday and Thakur, who was in the squad as a cover for Mohammed Shami, also not included, meant there was no representation from Mumbai. There have been instances in the past when a playing eleven had six to seven players from Mumbai. This is also the 25th Test

HIGHLIGHTS Since 1933, every Test match Mumbai has featured at least one player from the city before today Ajinkya Rahane sustained a finger injury a day before the Test match Although Shardul Thakur is in the squad, he wasn't part of India's XI

being played at this ground, since the first one in 1974-75, and 44th overall with the Brabourne Stadium, on the south side of the Churchgate railway station, having hosted 18 games from 1948 to 1972.

CCD win in style Dibru Suarez set to sign Neelam, another hockey United new six-year gem from Rourkela Barcelona contract win

Sanjeep Xess Neelam was born into a family of peasants. (Image source: BCCL)

Mumbai, Dec 8 : True, it may be known as the hockey capital of India, but almost all among the several hockey players Rourkela has produced have a story behind their success. A story of suffering... a story of hardships and poverty... a story of grit and determination. South Central Railway, Secunderabad, (SCR) defender Sanjeep Xess Neelam's story is written along such lines. Born into a family of peasants, Neelam, an aspiring exponent of the drag flick, scored two goals in the final of the 51st edition of the Bombay Gold Cup hockey tournament against Punjab National Bank at the Mumbai Hockey Association Limited-Mahindra Stadium on Wednesday. His effort was instrumental in the Secunderabad side clinching the final 4-2 and subsequently walking

home richer with a purse of Rs 3 lakh along with the glittering Bombay Gold Cup trophy. Hockey is so popular in Rourkela that it is a given for youngsters to pick up a stick at a very young age. Neelam was no different. Of course, he could still afford an occasional game of football, but hockey stuck with him. After learning the nuances of the game, he came in touch with some quality coaches and some seniors like fellow former India defender Birendra Lakra. In 2010, he started taking serious strides and it was not long before he began to get noticed. With the help of those coaches and Lakra, he started developing his game and was picked by the Sports Hostel. At the Sports Hostel, he found a platform that would pitchfork him in to the national scheme of

things. Soon, he got a national call-up to the subjunior camp. His staunch defending abilities earned him an India cap and before he could realise it, he was handed the reins of the team in a tournament recently held in Dhaka, Bangladesh. But despite getting offers from reputed clubs in India, he could not play for them because the Sports Hostel rule doesn't permit its students to play for outside clubs on a stipend. But because of the possibility of Neelam landing a job with SCR, the officials gave him special permission to play in Mumbai. "This is for the first time I am playing in an all-India tournament for a different team. The officials and coaches at the Sports Hostel were kind to grant me permission to play here. Hopefully I will do well in the future," the 18year-old said.

Luis Suarez New Delhi, Dec 8 : The striker will follow Neymar in committing to the club, with confirmation of the deal potentially coming before the end of 2016 Luis Suarez will become the next Barcelona star to sign a new contract, according to president Josep Bartomeu. The Uruguayan's six-year deal comes less than two months after his forward partner Neymar commited to the club until 2021, and it could be confirmed before the end of 2016. Javier Mascherano and Ivan Rakitic have also recently penned fresh terms, with Lionel Messi expected to follow suit. "Suarez is going to renew [his contract] now. It's already done," Bartomeu told Radio Vision. "There are only a few small details outstanding. In the coming days or weeks we

will announce it. "Maybe, why not, as a big Christmas present. Not for Luis, who already knows that he is going to continue here, but for football fans. "For them he is a very important character who forms part of this spectacular front three that we have at the club." Suarez, who arrived from Liverpool in a deal worth around ÂŁ65 million two years ago, turns 30 in January and Bartomeu hopes to the player sees out his career at Camp Nou. "We want [his contract] to be even longer, but for the moment he will sign until 2022. You have to adapt to the rules, which have a maximum contract length. "We want Luis Suarez to be at this club for many years. And when he retires he will always be welcome at Barcelona."

Sports Reporter Dibrugarh, Dec. 8: Cricket Club of Dibrugarh defeated Duliajan Cricket Academy by 92 runs in the senior division cricket league tournament organized by Dibrugarh District Sports Association at DDSA stadium here today. Put into bat, CCD scored 219 for six in stipulated 35 overs. Saurav Bhagwati remained unbeaten on 52 off 47 balls, hitting seven boundaries. Antanu Sharma contributed 35 off 39 balls with three boundaries and one six while Siddharta Doshi scored 31 off 44 deliveries laced with three fours. Jyotiraditya Chetia chipped in with 30 off 32 balls. Arindam Deb scalped

three for 35 in 7 overs for Duliajan Cricket Academy. In reply, DCA were bundled out for 127 in 31. 3 overs. Chetan Singh scored 17 off 22 balls, hitting three boundaries to the fence and Arindam Deb contributed 15 off 22 balls with two boundaries. Amit Urang scored 15 and Tarun Meach remained unbetean on 14 runs. For CCD, Dipak Gohain took four for 24 in 7 overs while Antanu Sharma scalped three for 4 in 4 overs. Phanindar Sonowal took two wickets. Saurav Bhagwati was adjudged man of the match. Tomorrow, Namrup Cricket Academy will play Jeoti Moral Sangha.

Sports Reporter Dibrugarh, Dec. 8: Dibru United beat Shiupur Club 2-0 in the A-division football league 2016-17 Tinsukia Zone of Tinsukia District Sports Association organized by Dibru United at Janamukh playground today. Bhaskar Gohian opened the account for Dibru United in the 25th minute converted a right flank kick. Papu Hazarika made it 2-0 in the 66th minute. Hazarika got a pass from the left flank and found the back of the net.

Eng 196/2 against India at tea on day 1 of 4th Test PTI Mumbai, Dec 8 : India could take only one wicket in the second session as England reached 196 for two at tea on the opening day of the fourth cricket Test, here today. Debutant Keaton Jennings (103) and Moeen Ali (25) were at the crease at the break. Brief Score: England 1st innings: 196 for 2 in 62 overs (K Jennings 103 batting, Alastair Cook 46; Ravindra Jadeja 1/29).

Eng 196/2 against India at tea on day 1 of 4th Test

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Editor: Prahlad Hammey

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