September 15, 2016, Thursday

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PAGE 12

Vol. II

Issue 63

Dibrugarh, Thursday, September 15, 2016

10 THINGS FOR HIGHSCHOOL STUDENTS TO REMEMBER

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CM Sonowal reviews meeting on law and order Association demands situation in Upper Assam

Police Officer found dead proper investigation

The body of Sub-Inspector Hano Chatung was found in his vehicle (Registration number AR-01H-9709) this morning at around 7.30am at 6 Mile, between Itanagar -Naharlagun road, with a gunshot wound on his head.

According to Capital Complex Superintendent of Police Dr A Koan, passersby called the Itanagar Police Station when they saw that the vehicle with the body had crashed and fallen into a drain.

Reportedly, SI Chatung was heading for his morning duty at Doimukh Police Station from Itanagar where he was posted, and was alone in the vehicle when the incident occurred.

During preliminary investigations, the police found one entry and exit bullet wound, which shot out through the roof of the vehicle. Though the police are currently viewing

ET CAPSULES State BJP reshuffles Itanagar, 14 Sept: In a major reshuffle in the BJP state unit under its state president Tapir Gao for the session 2016-2019, former general secretary Dominic Tadar has been endorsed as the party’s vice president, along with Kenyir Ringu, Nani Ljie, Nakul Chai, Wanglong Rajkumar and Tame Phassang.

Former corporate head and journalist-turned politician Jarpum Gamlin has been appointed as general secretary (GS), while former party general secretary B R Waghe will continue with his position.

Further, Tagin Siga, Ojing Tasing, Doni Nich, Lelong Lingfa, Dr Taba Nirmali and Hollai Wangsa have been appointed as secretary, along with other officer bearers here today at BJP office.

The reshuffle has been announced after delay of almost four months of appointment of former MP and national general secretary Tapir Gao as state president on April last. The BJP currently has the strength of 11 MLAs in the 60 member Legislative Assembly and is the key opposition party against the Congress ruled-state of Arunachal. (Staff Reporter)

Tinsukia boy commits suicide

Akshay Dev Amrit

cmyk

Tinsukia, Sep 14: Sensation prevailed in Tinsukia after a boy named Akshay Dev Amrit committed suicide in his home by hanging himself in the ceiling fan.

The deceased had a mobile shop at TDA market in Tinsukia. Police are investigating the case. (Correspondent)

A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Sept 14

Meanwhile, the Confederation of Service Associations of Arunachal Pradesh (CoSAAP) and the Tanw Supuñ Dukuñ (TSD) have deeply mourned the untimely demise of SI Chatung.

SI Chatung, 20 years old was found dead between Itanagar-Naharlagun Road it as a case of suicide, the SP said that post mortem reports are awaited to ascertain the actual cause of death.

However, no suicide note was found on the spot of the

incident.

The incident is still under investigation, with SubInspector P Mirit as the investigating officer.

However, on reports that it was a case of suicide, the CoSAAP said that Chatung’s family and close friends considered him to be a strong and dedicated police officer and that he could not have taken such a drastic step.

The CoSAAP and TSD demanded that a proper investigation of the case be

“The statement of former Governor of Arunachal Pradesh J.P. Rajkhowa published in media that he has not recommended for President’s rule in the State made it clear now that the entire episode of President’s rule was created, designed & masterminded by the Modi Govt. going beyond the Constitution of India just to topple the popular elected Congress Govt. in the State”, stated Arunachal Pradesh Congress Committee.

On Wednesday, JP Rajkhowa who was sacked by the President said that he did not recommend President’s Rule in the state.

APCC while criticizing the BJP party said that it will damage the dignity of the BJP party at the National Level with the humiliation that it has to go through with the statement of the outgoing Governor.

Mr. Rajkhowa succumbed to pressure and tactics of double standard BJP party and when they failed to install the BJP Govt. in the State, they blamed and sacked Mr. Rajkhowa as Governor of Arunachal Pradesh to hide their own misdeeds, APCC added. Mr Rajkhowa was made to be a scapegoat while all the episodes of the political consequence and instability of the Govt. have been created by few BJP leaders from Arunachal

Pradesh. They have even successfully misguided the central Govt, alleged APCC in an official communiqué.

APCC stated that few BJP leaders of the state have tried to form the govt. through the backdoor entry not by popular mandate. The political upheaval in Arunachal Pradesh will hampered the BJP party in the upcoming elections in few states.

APCC while heartily welcomes the Designated Governor of Arunachal Pradesh V. Shanmuganathan said that the BJP party will be sole responsible if Arunachal Pradesh witness Kashmir like situation as BJP is not allowing Democracy in the state.

Further, CoSAAP in its strongest term condemned the brutal attack on the Lohit Sub-Inspector, his team and the Namsai Superintendent of Police by people of Silatoo Village, Namsai district on September 10 last. It demanded immediate arrest of the culprits and exemplary punishment as per law.

State BJP distances itself from the dismissal of Rajkhowa A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Sept 14

The state BJP unit today categorically distanced itself from the premature dismissal of former Governor J P Rajkhowa during a press conference held today to inform of the reshuffle in the state party unit.

A day after Rajkhowa disclosed that he had not done anything wrong, and that the President’s Rule on January 26 was not his decision alone, Contd. on Page 4

Changlang DC, SP refute rumour of ‘Head Hunters’ ET Bureau Changlang, Sept 14

of the Police Stations in the district.

Superintendent of Police, Changlang Amit Sharma called an emergency meeting among PRI members, Senior Citizens, Executives members of various organizations in his Office Chamber today, to discuss the rumors of head hunters “Murkatta” wondering in Changlang dist headquarters and their involvement in human trafficking, smuggling of human organs, etc which has created ripples of panic among all walks of people in the district.

He appealed all and sundry to shun spreading rumors as it might help criminals trick victims with serious crimes citing with an example of a crime committed at Bordumsa wherein a juvenile entered a house and committed theft in disguise of driving Murkatta.

Refuting the rumors, he stated that not a single instance of such case has been reported so far in any

However, the SP promised to intensify night patrolling in the area with moveable as well as static patrolling team to instill sense of security and confidence among the public. The SP said that ILP checking will also be intensified to check influx of antisocial elements in the

district.

Deputy Commissioner, Changlang Wayong Khimhun who was also present in the meeting appealed tpeople of the district not to spread baseless, unfounded and false rumors in the society.

He said that every false rumor has a kind of detrimental effect citing the example of an employee of Veterinary Department who was beaten up in the night of 13th Sept last by mob suspecting him to be a member of Murkatta. He immediately issued an executive order to prohibit carrying of lethal weapon from 6 AM to 6 PM and restrict the movement of people after 9 PM unless a valid reason.

Govt to deal with Iron hands to stop the rise in extortions and militancyrelated incidents in Tinsukia district

undertaken to unearth the truth behind the death of SI Chatung. The CoSAAP demanded that the state government offer a job to his wife and pay ex-gratia as per government norms.

The organizations also prayed to the Almighty God for eternal peace of the departed soul and conveyed deep condolences to the bereaved family members.

Rajkhowa was sacked to hide the misdeeds of the state BJP, alleges APCC A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Sept 14

IMPROVEMENT IN SECURITY

The DC also said that a meeting among the GBs will soon be convened to generate mass awareness among the villagers in this regard.

Earlier PRI members, Senior Citizens, Executives members of various organizations highlighted the possible consequences out of the rumors and put forward the positive suggestions to overcome the panic situation as well as to avert untoward incidents.

It may be mentioned here the following the rumors people in large group equipped with doa, rode, axe, etc came out in the evening of 13th September last to drive away the suspected Murkatta(s).

Police force will be provided with improved and modern equipments

Sarbanand Sonowal at a law & order review meeting in Tinsukia DC office with officials of the administration and the Army.

A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Sept 14 Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal today chaired two security review meetings in Dibrugarh and Tinsukia concerning the law and order situation of the upper Assam.

The chief minister was briefed about the prevailing law and order situation in Dibrugarh district during the hour-long meeting held at the Dibrugarh circuit house.

Emphasizing on the safety and security of the citizens was the topmost priority of his government; he urged the various security agencies to work with greater coordination. Sonowal said that his government would extend all possible support to the security forces deployed in the state while emphasizing that maintaining conducive law and order was essential for the overall progress of the state.

Dibrugarh DC Laya Madduri,

SP Gautam Bora and top officials from the CRPF, army and air force were present in the review meeting.

Sonowal also participated in another security review meeting at the Tinsukia circuit house. Tinsukia DC Ranjan Kumar Chakraborty, SP Mugdhajyoti Mahanta, top army and CRPF officials were present during the meeting.

The officials present in the meeting updated Sonowal on the overall law and order situation in the district.

Expressing concern about the sudden rise in extortions and militancy-related incidents in Tinsukia district in recent times, he said that their government will dealt them with an iron hand. He urged the police and other security agencies to work in coordination to prevent such incidents. Sonowal said that the police force will be provided with improved and modern equipments so that they are able to discharge their

Chief Minister handed over a cheque of Rs 5 lakh each to the family members of the eleven victims who were killed in Pengeri on April 11 when a high-tension electric wire fell during a protest rally duties efficiently. Sonowal was apprised on the present strength and activities of the security forces in the district.

He later handed over a cheque of Rs 5 lakh each to the family members of the eleven victims who were killed in Pengeri on April 11 when a high-tension electric wire fell during a protest rally. He also met the widow of slain CPI (ML) leader Gangaram Kaul who appealed to the CM to speed up the investigation process of her husband’s death.

On March 25, 2013, 43-year old Kaul was brutally hacked to death by unknown assailants in Panitola area of Tinsukia district. Earlier, Duliajan MLA Terosh Gowala contributed his one-month salary of Rs 60,000 to the CM’s relief fund for the flood affected victims. He personally handed over the amount by cheque to Sonowal at his Dibrugarh residence. A sum of Rs 1 lakh was contributed by the Dibrugarh Zila Parishad to the CM’s relief fund.

AdiSU condemns attack on police personnel at Silatoo A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Sept 14

The Adi Students’ Union, Lekang unit has condemn the recent incident of Silatoo village, where police personnel had been assaulted, and urged the concerned authority to arrest the culprits involved in the incident immediately.

Further, AdiSU- Lekang has also urged all the students’ organizations, NGOs and CBOs of Namsai district not to give any communal color to the incident.

“We want to clarify that the actual place of incident occurred at Silatoo Khamti village and the culprits

involved in the mayhem are from various community, So, we request the concern authority and every organization not to blame particular community as appeared in various media and social networking sites.

Instead, we should stand united against drug menace and such mayhem in the district”, stated a release.

Assam submits Rs. 10,000 crore projects to centre to tackle floods PTI Guwahati, Sep 14

Union Minister of State for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Sanjeev Kumar Balyan today said the recurring flood and erosion problems of Assam will be tackled in an "attacking mode".

"So far we have been in a defensive mode in tackling the flood and erosion problem of Assam. But, from now on we will go for an attacking mode," Balyan said at a press meet here.

made in a phased manner.

A fund Rs 1,500 crore lying with the World Bank, Rs 367 crore with Asian Development Bank and Rs 400 crore with the Union DoNER ministry could be utilised for flood and erosion control, he said adding NABARD could also be approached for loans with the Assam government chipping in with their own contributions.

The Union Minister said Assam has lost four lakh hectares of its land to erosion.

For this and construction of embankments, 66 projects have been submitted by the state government to the Centre requiring Rs 10,000 crore, he said.

Pointing that out only 10 per cent of agricultural land in Assam is irrigated, Balyan wanted more land to be included so that farmers go for multi-cropping with incentives such as solar powered tube wells provided to them.

Stating that the Centre has asked the Assam government to sort out the projects according to priority, Balyan said the allocation would be

Speaking about three irrigation schemes started in the 1980s remaining incomplete till now, he said funds would be released by this

month for their completion by March next year.

The three projects were the Rs 567 crore river Dhansiri scheme for irrigating 83,000 hectares, Rs 309 crore river Champaboti scheme for 16,581 hectares and Rs 157 crore Borolia river scheme for 13,562 hectares.

Speaking about the Brahmaputra, Balyan said there was a consensus that a study should be undertaken to understand the river and come up with long lasting solutions for the recurring floods and erosion problems caused by it.

Assam and central government officials with experts could also work together for resolving the problem, he said.

On Majuli, considered Asia's largest river island in the Brahmaputra, Balyan said the DoNER Ministry would soon announce an Rs 260 crore project for tackling its flood and erosion problems.

cmyk

A Staff Reporter Itanagar, Sept 14

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

CITY

PAGE 2

Dibrugarh, Tinsukia

68 Battalion of Jareeguri CRPF distributes playing toys at Tinsukia ET Correspondent Tinsukia, Sep 14: Today 68 Battalion of Jareeguri CRPF distributed playing toys in various schools of Tinsukia like Hatigar M.E School, Dhelaghat M.E School, Bordoloi Nagar M.E School and Borguri High School under the banner of Civic Action Programme.

Duliajan MLA Terosh Gowala on Wednesday handing over his one-month salary of Rs 60,000 to CM Sarbananda Sonowal by cheque for the CM relief fund for flood victims. Pic - Manoj Pandey

Anger in Charaideo: Army allegedly drags its boots into mosque Sivasagar, Sept 14: Situation turned volatile at Doulbagan in Charaideo district after Indian Army personnel allegedly entered the Doulbagan mosque with shoes. Irate locales alleged that the Army jawans also warned them to

stay away from slaughtering of cows. Subsequent to this, the irate locales took to streets and staged vehement protest against the act. However, senior police officials reached the spot and prevented further outrage.

2nd Commanding Officer of 68 CRPF Battalion, Rajiv Kumar, Vice-Commanding Officer, U.R Rameswear, Medical Officer, Dr. Rajesh Putta, School headmaster and local citizens were present during the programme.

Forest department rescues leopard at Mankhusi

HOROSCOPE Aries

You may get the feeling that you're operating in an emotional crossfire today, Aries. On the one hand, you may have a "me first," selfish feeling that demands attention from others.

You may also sense the need to work to serve others and bring like-minded people together.

Realize that both of these energies are valid and deserve your attention. Balance is the key. Work to soothe your fluctuating emotions.

Taurus

You'll enjoy a day of high spirits and friendly interactions. The energy of the day is in your favor, although it may not seem like it. Your emotions may become cloudy and it might seem like people are working against you. Although this may be true to some extent, realize that much of this paranoia comes more from your emotional insecurity than another's plot against you.

Gemini

Ask for help if you need it, Gemini. Your nature is to serve others, but in order to maintain that energy, make sure that you're taken care of as well. Offer extra hugs to the people you love. In work-related issues, make sure that you aren't biting off more than you can chew. Delegate tasks to others. Pamper yourself tonight with a hot bath and a good meal.

Cancer

Keeping your emotions in balance is going to be the key to a successful day, Cancer. Don't get swept away by a fanciful situation that could send your mind spinning. Maintain control at all times.

This might be easier said than done. Give yourself a break and avoid excess alcohol or any sort of drug use. It will be hard enough to keep your mind clear without them.

Leo

You may feel like you're running into a brick wall at every turn, Leo, especially when it comes to emotions. The intensity of the day may have you feeling like you're in a pressure cooker. Try not to blow things out of proportion. Realize that much of the drama is more a figment of your imagination than reality. Clear away the clouds and get to the heart of the matter.

Virgo

Bask in the sunshine of today, Virgo. Focus on the positive aspects of your life and work to expand these energies. There's a great deal of opportunity open at this time. The key to taking advantage of this is to stay close to the things that truly bring you the most happiness. The details will work themselves out with almost no effort. Have faith that you'll succeed and you will.

Libra

Scorpio

A Staff Reporter Dibrugarh, Sept 14: A leopard was rescued from Mankhusi tea estate under Digboi Forest Division in Dibrugarh district on Tuesday. According to locals, the leopard had been preying on domestic animals in the nearby areas and comes out from forest in search of food in human settlement areas to look for easy prey i.e., cow, goat, dogs etc.

The officials of tea estate informed the Digboi Forest Division and they provided a trap case on September 3.

“As per the plan, the leopard was successfully trapped on Tuesday night.

The leopard got inside the chamber to eat the goat and trapped in the cage,’’ a forest official said.

The forest officials arrived at the spot to inspect the

Make sure you're getting enough sleep, Libra. You may seem groggy and your head could be a bit cloudy today, but try not to let this stop you from getting your work done. Much of what you perceive may not exactly correlate with reality. Your emotions could be especially distorted. You may have a strong desire to escape into a fantasy world. Try to keep both feet on the ground.

There may be an area of your life that seems completely fanciful now, Scorpio. The issues regarding it have become a bit hazy. You may no longer be sure of the reality of the situation. Today's energies will bring these issues into focus. Your emotions are especially heightened, and they, too, will seem a bit clouded. Try to stay balanced and gain a new perspective on the situation.

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

Your fantasy life is especially active today, Sagittarius, so enjoy this little break into your dream world. Coming back to reality may be difficult.

Keep tabs on your emotions so they don't get the better of you. The impressions you receive from the outside world may not be accurate today. Keep your wits about you and try not to get caught up in drugs and alcohol.

You're in a fun-loving and jovial mood today, Capricorn, and you should make time to enjoy it with friends. The one caveat to the day is that your emotions may be a bit clouded. You may not have the most accurate impression of a situation. You might feel that people have the wrong impression of who you are. Try not to feel insecure. Have confidence in yourself and take the lead.

You may have a strange paranoia that people are out to get you today, Aquarius, but don't let this feeling paralyze you. Your emotions are more than likely getting the better of you. The reality of the situation is much different than your sensitive emotions perceive. Avoid the tendency to escape even further into this fantasy world. Stay away from drugs or alcohol.

Your fantasy world is piqued today, Pisces. Your imagination is running wild. Maintain a certain amount of control over your emotions or they may get the better of you. You could find yourself in a cloud of confusion by afternoon. Avoid this by making an effort to ground yourself throughout the day.

Make sure your actions result from an equal balance between thought and emotion.

ET Bureau Dibrugarh, Sept 14: The National Democratic Front of Boroland (NDFB) observes its 28th national Martyrs Day at different places today to mark sacrifices of cadres of the militant outfit organization for the cause of Boroland state issues. NDFB-Progressive observed the day at three designated camps, which included Kumguri in Kokrajhar, Barbari in Baksa and

forces on today's day step good positive. in 1988.

Congress led UPA govt had interested on In Kokrajhar, B Boroland issue with Benga, speaker of emphasized of soluNDFB-P hoisted orga- tion ways. BJP led nizational flag in half, NDA govt has not been Lawrence Islary, gen- taking good step to the eral secretary of issues. Solve Boroland ABSU lighted the issue through way of lamp on the occasion, Mizo solution way of B Jaikolong vice 1986 settlement and president of NDFBP sustain good situation. paid rich floral tribute to the martyrs’ tomb. We want early solution of separate Boroland S Sanjarang, publicity state and NDFB issues secretary of NDFB-P through political way.

Sapkaiti in Udalguri district. NDFB-Ranjan Daimary faction observed at Odla Kashibari in Udalguri district. While NDFBSongbijit faction observed in Myanmar foreign country. The NDFB has been observing the martyr’s day since 1988 on the death day of B Bangburgwra, then area commander of the militant outfit, was killed by security

slammed the government for not taking stern step to the solution of Boroland state and issues of NDFB problems.

captive leopard. The members of Evergreen foundation helped the forest staffs in the rescue operation. The Leopard was shifted to the Soraipung forest with the assistance of staff members of Mankhusi tea estate.

They provided a Tata DI vehicle to shift the captive leopard and it was successfully released at Soraipung forest under Digboi Forest Division.

New Local Train for Tinsukia-Ledo-Dibrugarh

Sagittarius

NDFB-P observes martyrs’ day

Cinema Galleria Cinema Dibrugarh Junction Mall Screen-1 FREAKY ALI 1ST show at 10:15 AM 2ND show at 12:30 PM

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FREAKY ALI 5TH show at 08:15 PM

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9TH SEPTEMBER to 15th SEPTEMBER, 2016

The govt has been tactically delayed the peace process. Govt should initiate for early solution of Boroland issues", Sanjarang said. Lawrence Islary, general secretary of ABSU demanded early solution of Boroland issue to meet healthy and good governance in the region.

He said that the militant outfit reached ceasefire with government since June, 2005 to meet healthy solutions on the issues of Boroland state. The militant outfit took up “We recalled contriarms to seek separate butions of martyr cadBoroland state since res, who sacrifice their lives for the cause of 1986 and made ceasefire for separate homeland. reaching main stream. He has Over five thousand urged govt to take strong measures cadres of various milito the Boroland issues. He has tant outfits, organizaexpressed resented over govern- tion and civilians lost ment for not taking any suitable their lives due to the measures while bringing solution m o v e m e n t for of Boroland state and NDFB prob- Boroland statehood. lems, for which why militant out- We a r e o rg a n i z i n g fit fought any government. mass agitation to put pressure government He also slammed Prime Minister to the Boroland deNarendra Modi, who had prom- mands”, Isalry said. ised to solve Boroland issue during 2014 parliamentary elections BTC MCLA in the state. He has urged govern- Jyotirindra Brahma, ment to fulfill commitments kept Garjan Moshahary, during election manifesto in deputy chief convener Assam.

PJACBM,R Daokha, assitatnt publicity "We are waiting good response s e c r e t a r y N D F B - P from government as they prom- were prominent atised to the Boroland issue, but to- tendees on the occaday we are seeing govt has yet to sion.

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

AROUND THE

STATE

NSCN(KN) cadre nabbed with arms in Dimapur Guwahati, Sept 14: The Assam Rifles has apprehended one NSCN (KN) cadre with arms and ammunition in the civilian areas of Dimapur town. A release issued by the PRO of the Inspector General of Assam Rifles (North) yesterday said based on specific input regarding presence of an armed person in general area Diphupar B area of Dimapur town on September 8, troops of 32 Assam Rifles along with Police representative launched a search operation.

During search operation, one Point 22 Pistol with magazine, One point 22 Rifles with magazine, one 12 bore Shot gun, Point 22 rounds and 12 Bore rounds ammunitions were recov-

ered from the individual.

The apprehended individual, identified as one Tuloho, aged 47 years, re-

vealed that he is an active cadre of NSCN (KN) holding rank of Under Secretary.

The apprehended along

with the recovered items was later handed over to Diphupar Police Station in Dimapur for further investigation, the release said.

AASU stir over price rise Guwahati, Sept 14: The All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) today asked the Sarbananda Sonowall-led State Government to bring the much awaited ‘change’ in State by controlling the spiraling prices of the essential commodities.

The student body would launch a statewide dharna programme on September 15, demanding immediate action in this regard.

“It was the unabated price rise that caused the total downfall of the Congress government in State and people opted for the BJPled government expecting better governance and succour from price rise.

Though the Chief Minister, after assuming office, directed the DCs and the Supply Department officials to prepare reports and take measure to control the situation, it has not made any difference insofar as the

market rates are concerned,” the AASU said.

“Rates of rice, pulses, potato, onion and many other essential commodities have gone through the roof, badly affecting the common people,” a statement issued

by AASU president Dipanka Kumar Nath and general secretary Lurinjyoti Gogoi mentioned.

The dharna would be staged in front of all the DC offices

of the State demanding strict measures to curb price rice and action against hoarders and black marketers.

The student body also expressed concern over the pest onslaught on thousands hectares of cropland, hitting the farmers hard. “The government must take immediate measures to provide adequate compensation to the affected farmers,” the statement added.

Special Doordarshan telecast tomorrow Guwahati, Sept 14:To mark the celebration of the foundation day of Doordarshan, which was founded on September 15, 1959, Programme Production Centre (North-East), Doordarshan, Guwahati, has produced a special programme titled Yadein, to be telecast on DD North

East from 7 pm to 8 pm on September 15.

The programme includes songs by Bengia Hemanta (Arunachal Pradesh), Surabhi Dev Burma (Tripura), Pulak Banerjee (Assam), Genevie Knonjee (Meghalaya), western music by Suman

Dutta, Chitrangada (dance drama), documentary on Amal Prava Das, Katha Ek Jajabar Ki (documentary), Campus-Campus, Healthcare, Dhoon Dhamaka, DD-Kisan, A Journey of Commitment (feature), etc.

Interaction by a few emi-

nent personalities like Abdul Mazid, Dilip Kumar Hazarika, Neel Pawan Baruah, Nipon Goswami, KC Santra, Smt Nayan Sarmah, Purnima Saikia, Ramlal Singha and Hiranya Deka, among others, will form part of the programme.

Man-Animal Conflict ; Wild Tuskers Wreak Havoc in Goalpara Goalpara,Sept 14: A herd of wild elephants went on a rampage in a village in Goalpara district of Assam, damaging several houses, uprooting trees and destroying residential property."The elephants entered from a nearby forest area. It has destroyed many houses and people are scared and helpless," said a local.No injuries have been reported . Attacks by elephants have been on the rise in Assam. Wildlife experts say the destruction of animal habitats in the country is one of the main reasons for the increase in encounters between wild animals and villagers in rural areas of India.

A File Photo

rhino horn.

The conditions of the rhino horns of the Barpeta treasury are in not good condition as dampness from the old treasury building have damaged most of the rhino horns. Three of the horns are in soiled condition and the composition of them could not be ascertained from the FSL test. The sample of them have been sent for DNA test.

Barpeta treasury contains horns from the Manas Wildlife Sanctuary. The committee will finally check the Guwahati treasury on Thursday which contains 99 rhino horns.

Arunachal Pradesh

two to three trees and its difficult for them stay together in these trees. So, the solution is to plant more trees to provide them shelter and protect them from storms and heavy rain," he added.

Meanwhile, another resident in Majuli also said that there were This incident is the first dead birds in his where a large number colony. of birds have been killed in heavy rain As many as different near Garamur in Majuli species of birds, includdistrict. ing Stork, Cattle egret , A resident said he was Pond heron, crows very sad to see that hun- among others, were dred birds lost their killed. lives in the storm.

These birds, which de"In Garamur birds pend on the horticulture colony we have seen crops in the vicinity, that thousands of birds roost on the coconut are living together in trees in the surrounding.

schools in Assam will soon be declared tobacco-free zones as a mission of the state education department.

There are 4,316 government secondary schools in the state and out of these, all secondary schools in the districts of Lakhimpur, Baksa, Tinsukia, Udalguri, Sonitpur, Golaghat, Goalpara and Bongaigaon have been reported to be Tobacco-free Educational Institutions (TFEI), as per the submissions made by school inspectors to the Secondary Education Department (Rastriya Madhyamik Siksha Abhiyan).

Secretary for Secondary Education R C Jain said educational institutes must be tobacco-free to ensure an atmosphere for imparting quality education and as such this has been accorded priority to this endeavour.

Sustained efforts have been leading to positive results in this respect, he said.

on April 26 to all school inspectors and these included a set of questions for the school principals who have now started sending declarations that their institutes are tobacco-free, which are now being forwarded to the RMSA office.

The mission to make schools tobacco-free in the state is being pursued by Healis Seksaria Institute for Public Health, education department and Dr B Barooah Cancer Institute, in association with Tata Trusts.

As many as 78 secondary schools in Bongaigaon, 189 in Baksa, 79 in Udalguri, 197 in Sonitpur and 120 in Goalpara have also been declared tobacco-free zones.

Other districts are also working towards achieving this goal and the endeavour will enable us to save the future generations from the deadly clutches of tobacco addiction, Jain added.

AJYCP submits memorandum to CM Sonowal for speeding up of sub-division works Bikul Gogoi Naharkatia, Sep 14: A long pending demand of the people of Naharkatia was fulfilled when the government granted sub-division to Naharkatia. A long decade of fight and sacrifice of the people of Naharkatia has finally came true.

AJYCP Naharkatia unit too was among the various organisation who fought for the sub-division.

AJYCP of Naharkatia on 11th Sep, 2016 held a public meeting where the process needed for completing the required works for a full fledge sub-division, finalising the four boundary of Naharkatia sub division and also the expansion of Naharkatia town was discussed in the meeting.

A group of Senior citizens

accompanied by Naharkatia MLA Mr. Naren Sonowal and the under the aegis of AJYCP Naharkatia unit met the chief Minister Mr. Sarbananda Sonowal at Dibrugarh and submitted a memorandum for speeding up of sub-division works.

Mr. Naren Sonowal, Mr. Kusumbor Tarai Gogoi on behalf of senior citizen along with Ram Rajkonwar,

Jyoti Prasad Knowar, and Humen Borgohain General Secretary of AJYCP district unit, Deepjyoti Gohain, Gogon Nahardeka, Nabo Sarma, Raju Rajkonwar and Gurango Gogoi were among the members present in the meeting with the Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal where Chief Minister assured all help need for speeding up of the sub-division works.

As pest attacks in Assam croplands spread, Agri Minister faces farmers’ ire Guwahati, Sept 14: Assam Agriculture Minister Atul Borah Wednesday rushed to New Delhi as incidents of pest attack on croplands spread to other areas amid angry farmers in his home district of Golaghat.

Fgarmers are now hitting the streets, protesting alleged inaction and what they accuse was agriculture officials providing them with insecticides overshooting expiry dates.

Farmers took to the streets in Bokakhat, the Assam Agriculture Minister’s home constituency, for the second straight day protesting supply of insecticides overshooting expiry dates. The protesting farmers also demanded of the government to provide them with adequate compensation for the crops they have lost as a result of infestation by ‘armyworms’.

Rhino Verification Committee completes checking Barpeta treasury, 1913 of 2018 horn examined so far ET Bureau Barpeta, Sep 14: A total of 1913 horns of the total 2018 rhino horns stored in various treasuries of Assam have been examined so far, as today the Rhino Verification Committee completed checking Barpeta treasury.

So far the Rhino Verification Committee (RVC) examined rhino horns in Golaghat (1193), Tezpur (56), Mangaldoi (59), Nagaon (550), Morigaon (22) and today Barpeta (22). In Tezpur a box said to have contained three rhino were not checked yet as the box was found with missing key while Nalbari treasury has one

Residents plan to grow Assam Govt secondary trees after heavy Assam schools to be declared rain claims lives of hun- PTI tobacco-free zones Guwahati, Sept 14: All Jain had launched the misdreds of birds government secondary sion by issuing instructions ANI Majuli, Sep 14: With hundreds of birds killed in the in the heavy rain accompanied by hailstorm that lashed in Assam's Majuli district, residents are now of the view that more trees need to be planted to provide shelter and protect the birds.

Arms & ammunition recovered from the NSCN (KN) cadre.

PAGE 3

On the other hand, Agriculture Minister Atul

Borah said after meeting Union Minister Radha Mohan Singh that the Central government has assured him of all-possible support to deal with the

crisis.

Croplands in as many as 22 districts of Assam have been afttected by the giant ‘armyworm’ infestation.

The rice swarming cater-

pillars, locally known as the ‘Sur Puk’, are considered one of the most dangerous pests as widespread damage to food crops have been reported in Assam.

Special Awareness Programme on "Hindi Language" to mark Hindi diwas held at Tezu ET Bureau Tezu: Sept. 14: Directorate of Field Publicity (DFP), Govt. of India Tezu unit organized a Special Awareness Programme on "Hindi Language" to mark Hindi diwas today at Govt.

Middle School, Khoraliang, Lohit district of Arunachal Pradesh.

Altogether about 200 students including teaching staffs participated in the programme.

Sobem Karap, Headmaster describe about the importance of Hindi language to communicate himself to other at Arunachal Pradesh in particular and country as a whole. He disclose that

Hindi language is the main lingua-franca in Arunachal Pradesh because there are many tribes and their own separate dialect/ mother tongue but they do not understand the dialect one tribe to other tribe, so they communicate each other in Hindi language perfectly. So we can say that Hindi is the main and very important language for Arunachal Pradesh.

Jay Singh, Teacher describe about the development of Hindi language to become and accepted in the constitution as National language. He said that on 14th September 1949 the Hindi language, which is written in Devanaagari script accepted by constitution of India as National language and since

then on 14th September observed as Hindi Diwas every year.

Mihir kumar Jha, In-charge, DFP, Tezu unit also briefed the gathering about the Hindi language. He informed that the 15 days long "Hindi Fortnight" (Hindi Pakhawada) began from today and culminating on 28th of this month. Shri Jha however applied to the students, teachers and all try to uses Hindi language maximum as possible in your daily life without fear and disgrace.

Hindi poem, Essay and Song competition among the children also organized during the programme and prize distributed to the winners.

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

REST OF

PAGE 4

ARUNACHAL

Social Organisations of Lohit Deputy CM Chowna Mein motivates District appeal govt to deny students at the NIT 3rd Convocation bails to drug peddlers ET Bureau Tezu, Sept 14: With due respect, we, the executive members of the prominent social organisation of Lohit District would like to draw your kind attention towards the following issues for your needful action.

Prominent social organisations of Lohit District comprising All Lohit Students Union, Cultural and Literary Society of Mishmis and All Mishmi Welfare Society today appealed to the Deputy Commissioner not to grant bails to drug peddlers. “The recent crackdown on the drug/ opium peddlers in the

district by the police is laudable and we expect that the whole racket of drug traffickers will be busted by the police in order to create a drug free society in the days to some. Since such offences are punishable under the NDPS act 1985, it is our sincere appeal to the authorities concerned not to grant bail to such offenders so as to deter others from indulging in such crimes.

The need of the hour is to send a strong message to the wrong doers that the law of the land prevails”, stated the three organisations in their memorandum to the DC. The three organisations

Shri V. Shanmuganathan sworn-in as the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh Itanagar, Sept 14:The Governor of Meghalaya Shri V. Shanmuganathan has been sworn-in as the Governor of Arunachal Pradesh in the Darbar Hall of Raj Bhavan, Itanagar on 14th September 2016. The Governor of Meghalaya Shri Shanmuganathan has been given the additional charge of Governor of Arunachal Pradesh.

Hon’ble Chief Justice of Gauhati High Court Mr. Justice Shri Ajit Singh administered the oath of office.

Chief Minister Shri Pema Khandu, Cabinet Ministers, members of State Legislative Assembly, former Chief Minister Shri Nabam Tuki, Chief Secretary Smt Shakuntala Gamlin, senior officers, public leaders, special invitees and distinguished guests attended the function.

The swearing-in ceremony was followed by State Guard of Honour presented

by Arunachal Pradesh Police commanded by Inspector Shri Duyu Aago at Raj Bhavan, Itanagar.(DIPRO)

State BJP distances itself from the dismissal of Rajkhowa Contd. from Page 1

newly appointed vice president of state BJP, Dominic Tadar said that the party had nothing to do with the dismissal of Governor Rajkhowa as the chair of the governor is a constitutional post.

He also said that after the denial of Rajkhowa to step down from his position, the President of India, after proper procedure had dismissed him.

Responding to media

queries on whether the dismissal of Rajkhowa was a major blow to the BJP as the Congress party as well as some other political parties in the state were demanding his immediate dismissal before and after the Supreme Court verdict, Tadar stated that the entire episode was a creation of the Congress leaders, and reiterated that the BJP should not be questioned here as the party had nothing to do with the dismissal of Rajkhowa.

further raised concern on the recent arrests of some policemen for their involvement in drug peddling is a matter of grave concern. They demanded stringent action against them. It is reported that some of the police personals are opium/drug addicts, which is unbecoming of the men in uniform.

Hence, the department concerned needs to look into the matter seriously, the memorandum added.

The recent arrest of sexual offenders for their alleged involvement in sexual assault/ molestation has created a kind of fear psychosis among the general public of Tezu, stated the memorandum while stating that the peace loving and law-abiding citizens of Lohit resent

such detestable and unlawful incident, which are unheard of in the past.

They appealed to the authorities concerned not to grant bail to such offenders and further ensure that the culprits are brought to justice.

The three organisations have also appealed the District administration to intensify the ILP checking at the police check gates at Dirak and Sunpara. Besides, the District Administration needs to carry out ILP checking in an around Tezu at regular intervals to check unabated influx people with dubious antecedents since they feel crimes of such magnitude are generally committed by some anti-social elements from outside of the state.

MGNREGA payment norms relaxed in Arunachal Pradesh PTI Itanagar, Sept 14: As an interim arrangement, the Union Rural Development Ministry has relaxed norms for Arunachal Pradesh in regard to payment of wages and non-wages under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Generation Act. After the state government’s request, the ministry relaxed the norms for payment of wages and non-wages under MGNREGA through bank and post office accounts to the wage earners where outreach bank and postal service is inadequate, state RD Commissioner Indra Mallo said in a release in Itanager on Wednesday.

“The payment of wages and non-wages under MGNREGA to the job card holders can be made in cash by considering constituting a pay-

ment committee (PC) at each gram panchayat,” he said.

The payment committee should comprise of gram panchayat president and chairman, gram panchayat member of concerned villages, two women selfhelp group members wherever available, traditional tribal head gaon burahs, minimum three MGNREGA workers, including a woman member of the concerned gram panchayat.

Videography of the cash payment proceedings should also be made, Mallo said.

The district DC should constitute the payment committee, she said adding, arrangement for cash payment to the job card holders is an interim arrangement till proper banking and postal arrangement are established.

Sponsored

“Aruna Coke Coal Industry is operating under the knowledge of the Arunachal Govt” Kharsang, Sept 14: On 4th August last few persons claiming to be news reporters from Assam approached the proprietor of M/S Aruna Coke Coal Industry, Kharsang and demanded 10 lakh rupees which was flatly denied by the proprietor of M/ S Aruna Coke Coal Industry, as they had no single reason to impetuously pay such heavy amount to them, given the fact those people were not their business allies nor were they involve in any work carry out by the industry, stated the proprietor of the Aruna Coke Coal Industry based in Kharsang.

The proprietor further said that when she has denied they have threat-

ened the industry of defaming it and that they would block the LAMC transportation which passes via Margherita.

But since the M/S Aruna Coke Coal Industry is licensed Coke Coal Industry not much attention was given to their treat.

All the work undertaken by it is done through knowledge of Govt. of Arunachal Pradesh.

“M/S Aruna Coke Coal Industry participated in the open tender process and was declared the successful bidder on security of the tender papers, the open tender was held on 5th December, 2014 where in 20,000 M.T of seized coal was to be disposed off through public auction from Jairampur area. Af-

ter depositing the required amount to the Govt. of A.P. on 16th Jan, 2015 the industry was given the acceptance letter/deposit of royalty.

Thereafter, lifting of the seized load (Raw Coal) from Jairampur to Kharsang was received from the Govt. of A.P. after quite some time and transportation process lasted till the month of April, 2016. Since then the raw coal are being converted into finished products (LAMC and Coke breeze) which are sent for Marketing to Assam” state the industry in an official press communiqué.

“However, after few days of the demand of the amount, a local Hindi print daily has published

against the industry. And on 16th August, 2016 even a local TV Channel reported false news against M/S Aruna Coke Coal Industry in the most unprofessional and unethical fashion possible, claiming the work as illegal by branding it with various cheap and derogatory titles, calling out the proprietor’s business partners, family, friends and even her children’s and her husband as Coal Mafia “, claimed the proprietor of the industry.

She blamed the channel that it has twisted fact and that it should do its homework on the ethics of journalism. Twisting the truth and bashing someone under serving for personal gain is unacceptable, she said.

A Staff Reporter Itanagar, 14 Sept: National Institute of Technology (NIT), Arunachal Pradesh achieved another milestone as the third batch of students has been awarded their degrees in its third Convocation today.

Deputy Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Chowna Mein while attending the third Convocation of National Institute of Technology, Arunachal Pradesh as Chief Guest said that the higher educational institutions including the NlTs have to play a larger role in the progress of the regions in which they are based.

He called upon them to establish connection with stakeholders, identify problems hindering the development of the regions, and use their academic and research expertise to find solutions, beyond their academic domain.

He said, “in a state like Arunachal Pradesh with extremely poor road conditions and harsh climatic conditions and difficult terrains frequented with landslides and erosion due to flooding of rivers, inadequate quality control and supervision mechanism, technological bottlenecks, earthquake impact etc., the NIT- AP and other such Institutes located in the region have to play an active role in advisory capacity”. He exuded confident that central institutions like NlTs will spur the development of our nation through the collective development of their regions.

He said, “Each of the institutions should be an island of excellence in Innovation, Design, and Research in specific areas, but these islands should have synergized strategy to collaborate and grow together”.

He emphasized to give preference on research and innovation in academic development of NITs. He said that MOUs for research collaboration executed with foreign institutions have to be tracked regularly to ensure their efficacy.

He further said that the IITs /NITs are centers of creative excellence, which have al-

ways believed in promoting entrepreneurship and appealed to the students to make best use of the resources and come up with innovations through Research & Development activities, which leave behind a deep imprint in the annals of history.

He compliment the common counseling implemented for NITs, IITs, IIEST and other Government Funded Technology Institutes (GFTIs) for the admissions in above institutions and lauded the CSAB (Central Seat Allocation Board) team for the achievement. He suggested for constitution of a Student Grievances Redressal Cell at the Council level in coordination with Directors of institutions to address them effectively.

He further said that the govt under the leadership of young dynamic Chief Minister, Pema Khandu is according top priority on education sector, especially in higher and technical education for human resource development. He exuded hope that more such Higher Educational Institutions will come up in the state and shall provide employment opportunities to the educated youths and focus on quality education and skill development training to make our youths self-reliable.

He exhorted the passing out students to be teacher of tomorrow, a leader of the nation and global missionaries in the fields of science, engineering and technology

in particular and said, “you are going to be the part of the country’s scientific, engineering and technological manpower, which is a crucial constituent of our developmental framework”.

He exhorted them to continue to work hard with dedication, perseverance and imagination.

He praised the management and faculty members of NIT Arunachal Pradesh for their energy, dynamism and commitment for steering the Institute in its formative years. He expressed happiness that the Institute has been ranked at grade ‘B’ out of the existing A, B, C, grade of accreditation. He said that the achievement had placed NIT-AP at a high national rank of 19 in the NIT ranking system among 31 NITs in the country.

Director of NIT-AP, Prof.

C.T. Bhunia informed that NIT-Arunachal Pradesh is the fastest growing NIT among the 10 new NITs established

by Ministry of Human Resource Development, Govt. of India in 2010.

Over the last 5 years, the Institute has grown vastly and profoundly and the Institute is running seven 4-years B . Te c h programmes, six M.Tech programs four MS programs besides several Ph.D programmes and MBA online. It is catering more than 700 students and 100 employees.

He informed that NIT-AP has produced a brilliant

pool of young engineers who are working in reputed Industries like IBM, Infosys, Power grid, Wipro, L&T Construction, AMDOCS, Huawei, Robert Bosch, L&T Infotect, Musigma etc and a chunk of outgoing students are pursuing higher studies & research in high ranked Institutes and Universities nationally and globally.

On the occasion, D. Lit degree (Honorary) was conferred upon Mamang Dai, a noted poet, novelist and Padmashree awardee for her outstanding contribution to the cause of societal development by NIT-AP. The premiere institute also awarded Doctorate Degree in Engineering to Dr Santanu Maity besides113 M.Tech Post-Graduates and B.Tech Graduates which was given away by the Chief Guest.

The institute also awarded Gold Medals to highest scorers in four categories viz., Tagore Gold Medal to Sourabh Prakash Roy in Humanities subjects, Vishvesraya Gold Medal to Vishnu Priya in Engineering subjects, S N Bose Gold Medal to Bhawna Kumari in Science Subjects and J C Bose Gold Medal for best hardware project to 2 teams in group of four.

Among others, Chairman, Board of Governors, Members of Board of Management and Senate, Deans, Heads of Departments, Faculty Members, Registrar, DC & SP Yupia, Staff Members of the Institute and students were present.

Deputy CM urges for more training of engineers at ATI ET Bureau Itanagar, Sept 14: Deputy Chief Minister, Chowna Mein stressed on the need of training of all ranks of engineers on a regular basis instead of it being a once in a while activity. He said this in his inaugural speech of the three days training on “CPWD works manual, construction of flexible and rigid pavement” at Administrative Training Institute, Naharlagun today.

He said, “the regular training on professional of any discipline are absolutely necessary to keep themselves up-to-date with the latest management and technological developments”. He asked the department to come up with annual calendars for training on the lines of CPWD and other similar construction organisations. “This will benefit our engineers to take innovative and cost effective infrastructure projects in future” Mein said.

“As the State government is embarking upon firming up a long term development goals in the shape of Vision 2030, it will not be out of place to say that, amongst others, engineers will bear a huge responsibility to realise the goals” said the Deputy Chief Minister.

He further said that the govt

DCM Chowna Mein addressing the gathering at the ATI Training on CPWD manual works has already started introduction of modern method of construction of road by introducing construction of concrete roads. He added that the Concrete road or rigid pavement construction which was introduced in district HQs in the recent past is fast picking up, and is the right solution to do away with the present stock of roads in India which are out-dated, congested, wasteful of resources and extremely unsafe.

He urged the faculty trainers to impart training especially on construction of concrete road, so as to acquaint the engineers with the latest advancement in the construction technology suitable for this heavy rainfall, slide & flood prone and

hilly terrains of the state.

He further said to assure good quality in construction of roads, bridges and buildings etc to ensure durability and to impart training to learn the methods of construction with total quality assurance.

While citing CPWD Works Manual as one of the important subject, he said, “CPWD Works Manual provides a basic frame work of planning, designing and execution of Construction Works in PWD. Strict adherence to Manual will help avoid many pitfalls in award of contract works which in turn drastically cut down on arbitration and litigation suits”.

He exuded hope that the

training will reinforce acquaintance with the latest amendments and help to formulate more realistic estimate, carry out contract works with effective contract administration and shall also hone project monitoring skills and quality assurance.

Secretary PWD, Ashok Kumar, Chief Engineers Atop Lego, Kuru Charu and Hage Apa were present on the occasion.

Senior SEs and faculty members from National Council for Training & Social Research, New Delhi shall imparts training to Assistant Engineers and Junior Engineers of four circles viz., Capital, Yachuli, Bobia and Daporijo in the first phase.

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

BUSINESS

PAGE 5

Oil price rises but IEA's supply glut warning limits gains

Sensex extends losses, down 30 points on weak IIP data, global cues

Singapore, Sept 14: Oil edged higher in Asia Wednesday but hopes for a sustained rebound were dashed by fresh warnings a global supply glut would persist longer than expected.

As the market eyed a producers' meeting later this month for some reprieve, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said Tuesday that growth in oil demand was slowing while supply was rising.

The Paris-based organisation warned the glut would linger "at least through the first half of next year", reversing its earlier projection the oversupply would be soaked up in the latter part of 2016.

At around 0315 GMT, US benchmark West Texas Intermediate for delivery in October was up 21 cents to $45.11 and Brent crude for November added 18 cents to $47.28 a barrel.

IEA's forecast followed a report on Monday by the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries which predicted that nonmember countries would see output rise in 2017, revising its previous expectations of a drop.

HIGHLIGHTS Oil edged higher in Asia Wednesday but hopes for a sustained rebound.

Market eyed a producers' meeting later this month for some reprieve.

US benchmark West Texas Intermediate for delivery in October was up 21 cents to $45.11 and Brent crude for November added 18 cents to $47.28 a barrel.

OPEC and the International Energy Agency revised their oil demand figures for 2017 down.

For Graphical Representation purpose.

"Another nail in the coffin overnight, as both OPEC and the International Energy Agency revised their oil demand figures for 2017 down," said Jeffrey Halley, senior market analyst at OANDA trading.

"Long-suffering oil bulls will now turn nervously to the US EIA's commercial crude inventory numbers to be released this evening in New York," he said.

The US Energy Informa-

Jharkhand has immense prospects in textile sector: Das

Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das Ranchi, Sept 14: Jharkhand has immense prospects in textile sector, which could create employment opportunities, state Chief Minister Raghubar Das said today.

People of the state could be attracted to this sector with the goverment helping the textile companies evincing interest in setting up industries; an official release said quoting Das, who had a meeting with a delegation of Orient Craft.

As per the decision, the Orient Craft would set up an apparel unit in Ranchi and would begin construction from March next year, the release said.

The company would also assist in constructing Textile Park in Jharkhand, the release said.

Das said the company would help train the youth in the villages for employment with main focus being on districts where more migration take place.

The first phase of the training would be held in Gumla, Dumka, Khunti and Simdega, the release said.

It added that the company has a training centre in Lohardaga and imparts a three-monthly course.

Chief Secretary Rajbala Verma, Development commissioner Amit Khare, the Chief Mnisters Principal Secretary Sanjay Kumar, Building Construction Secretary K K Soan, and the Chief Ministers Secretary Sunil Kumar Burnwal were present in the meeting.

(PTI)

tion Administration will release later Wednesday data on US commercial crude inventories in the week to September 9, a closely watched measure of demand in the world's top oil consumer.

US stockpiles fell the most in 17 years the previous week, surprising the market, although analysts said the decline was because of the suspension of imports

and shutdown of some production owing to a severe hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico and not due to robust demand.

Traders will be watching for any deals to freeze or cut output when OPEC and non-OPEC producers meet in Algeria later this month.

"There are still major doubts about whether a deal can be done," IG Markets said in an analysis.

World's largest producer, Saudi Arabia, is lukewarm about a freeze, while Iran and Iraq are still increasing output following wars and sanctions.

"The world's largest producer, Saudi Arabia, is lukewarm about a freeze, while Iran and Iraq are still increasing output following wars and sanctions and they're unlikely to support a deal until they're pumping at full capacity."

(PTI)

Plan to save Tata Steel UK said to be shelved Mumbai ,Sept 14: As if the setbacks witnessed by Tata Steel, mainly pertaining to its Europe business, were not enough already, in yet another blow, the UK government's plan to save the company's UK business with pension reforms is said to have shelved.

Quoting industry figures, a Financial Times' report today said that a government plan to save Tata Steel's UK business by changing pensions law has been halted.

Due to the failure to resolve the pensions issue the ÂŁ15 billion British Steel scheme is in deficit - Tata's talks with Germany-based T h y s s e n Krupp over a potential tie-up of their European steel operations could get complicated, it said.

To help facilitate a deal, or even persuade Tata to keep the business, ministers wanted to detach it from the company and make it financially self-sufficient.

But nearly three months after a public consultation closed the proposal is now in effect off the table, according to three people briefed on the matter reported financial times.

The plan has been dropped

for several reasons such as Sajid Javid, former business secretary, has moved to a different cabinet post, new ThyssenKrupp proposals have emerged, and ministers feared that the plan was likely to be blocked in the House of Commons.

The plan involved changing the annual uplift in pensions - for existing pensioners - to a lower measure of inflation, plus other cuts to benefits. These changes would have reduced the scheme's longterm liabilities by about ?2.5bn but would have

take on the liabilities of the British Steel Pension Fund," the report quoted Roy Rickhuss, general secretary of the Community union as saying. "Tata needs to resolve the issue with the BSPF so talks can progress," he added.

In the quarter ended June, Tata Steel's consolidated net loss widened about 10 times to Rs 3,183 crore as against a Rs 317-crore loss in the corresponding period last year mainly on account of divestment of its long steel products division in the UK. The management at its post earnings conference held here mentioned that success of its talks w i t h ThyssenKrupp depended on several factors including pensions.

The management also informed that it continues to explore options for a strategic collaboration through a potential joint venture for its UK business. "We cannot make any definitive disclosures at present, but we are in talks with all stakeholders to find a sustainable solution for UK operations," said Koushik Chatterjee, group executive director (finance and corporate) at Tata Steel.(Agencies)

"Tata Steel management says company in talks with all stakeholders to find a sustainable solution for UK operations." required a change to the 1995 Pensions Act. Pensions experts and politicians warned this could set a dangerous precedent and could lead to the dismantling of other defined benefit schemes.

Meanwhile, calls made by Business Standard to Tata Steel officials went unanswered.

"The understanding is that ThyssenKrupp have been explicit that they would not want the joint venture to

Rupee loses 7 paisa against Earn right to grow, dollar in early trade Mistry tells firms MumbaI, Sept 14: Extending losses for the third day, the Rupee dropped by another 7 paise to 66.99 against the US dollar in early trade today at Interbank Foreign Exchange market as the American currency strengthened overseas.

Forex dealers said fresh demand for the US currency from importers and a lower opening in the do-

Pic. For Representation.

mestic equity market put pressure on the rupee.

The rupee had depreciating by 24 paise to end at 66.92 against the US dollar on Monday. The forex market remained closed yesterday on account of "Id-ul-Zuha".

Meanwhile, the benchmark BSE Sensex fell further by 30.22 points or 0.10 per cent to 28,323.32 in opening trade today.(PTI)

Abhineet Kumar , Mumbai, Sept14: Every company in the Tata group would have to earn its right to grow, said Chairman Cyrus Mistry in his first-ever interview since taking over the reins four years back.

In the interview to the group's internal communication website, Tata.com, Mistry said the group was focused on enabling individual companies to "earn this right by building strong operational cash flows

and looking at their capital structures."

The group would be supporting the growth focus with required capital expenditure investments. In the last three years, it had invested $28 billion and about $79 billion over the last decade. "It was clear to me relatively early that one needed to confront the challenging situations facing some of our businesses, and ultimately this would entail hard decisions on pruning the portfolio," said Mistry.

Mumbai, Sept 14: Continuing its downward trend, the benchmark BSE Sensex fell over 30 points in early trade as investors indulged in cutting down their bets on disappointing macroeconomic data and weak trend in Asian markets.

The 30-share barometer declined by 30.22 points or 0.10 per cent to 28,323.32 with metal and FMCG stocks trading in the red, falling by up to 0.43 per cent. The gauge had lost 691.74 points in the previous two sessions.

The market remained closed yesterday on account of "Id-ul-Zuha".

On similar lines, the NSE Nifty shed 7.25 points or 0.08 per cent to 8,708.35.

Brokers said market mood took a hit after IIP data, which was released after trading hours on Monday, showed indus-

Retail inflation eased to a five-month low of 5.05 per cent in August.

trial output contracted by 2.4 per cent in July, registering the worst performance in eight months mainly on account of declining output in manufacturing and capital goods sectors.

Meanwhile, Retail inflation eased to a five-month low of 5.05 per cent in August.

A weak trend in other Asian bourses, in line with overnight losses at the US

market following fall in global crude oil prices, also dampened sentiment here, they said.

Hong Kong's Hang Seng was down 0.10 per cent, Shanghai's Composite index fell 0.30 per cent while Japan's Nikkei shed 0.24 per cent in their early trade.

The US Dow Jones Industrial Average ended 1.41 per cent lower in yesterday's trade. (PTI)

WPI inflation rises to 3.74% in August despite fall In food inflation Indivjal Dhasmana New Delhi, Sept14: Unlike deceleration in its consumer price index (CPI) counterpart, the Wholesale price index (WPI)based inflationrose to 3.74 per cent in August from 3.55 per cent in July. However, even then it remained lower than retail price index-based inflation at 5.05 per cent that had declined from 6.07 per cent in July.

This was the fifth straight month of WPI inflation after continued deflation for over a year.

The opposite trend in the headline numbers was despite the fact that food inflation in both the indices declined. This was because the food index has lower weight age of over 14 per cent in WPI against

over 45 per cent in CPI. This presents contrasting picture for RBI new governor Urjit Patel for any monetary tweaking in October. However, the fact that WPI inflation is still sub-four per cent would give some comforts to the central bank in case it wants to cut the policy rate to spur dwindling economic growth.

The WPI food inflation fell to 8.23 per cent in the month from 11.82 per cent in July. The CPIbased food inflation declined to 5.91 per cent from 8.35 per cent over this period.

However, inflation in pulses in terms of WPI remained elevated at 34.55 per cent in August despite slight moderation from

35.76 per cent in July. The same was the case with CPI inflation in pulses.

There it declined to 22.01 per cent from 27.53 per cent.

While WPI inflation in potatoes rose to 66.72 per cent in August from 58.78 per cent in July, onions turned cheaper at higher rate of 64.19 per cent from 36.29 per cent.

Inflation in manufactured products, constituting almost 65 per cent of the WPI, rose to 2.42 per cent in Augusts from 1.82 per cent in July.

Here processed food products also saw higher inflation at 11.35 per cent against 10.19 per cent.

Fuel and power saw inflation at 1.62 per cent against deflation at one per cent.

Passage of GST shows unity of political parties: Indian MPs Washington Sept 14: The passage of the historic Goods and Services Tax (GST), which would subsume a number of indirect central and state levies, is a reflection of political parties working together in national interest, a group of Indian parliamentarians has said here.

Describing the GST as a major tax reform, BJD MP from Orissa Baijayant Panda said yesterday it shows that various political parties, despite their differences, can come and work together on key national issues.

"It is one of the biggest reforms that India has seen, thanks to the co-operation from all political parties," said BJP MP Anurag Thakur, who along with Panda and several others are currently part of an Indian-Parliamentarian delegation on a visit to the US. "Silently, we have worked our way through various reforms," said Congress MP Sushmita Dev during an interaction organised by the Carnegie Endowment for InternationalPeace, a top American think-tank.

The passage of the GST bill and the Congress supporting other major reforms, she said, does not mean that there will be no differences with the ruling party.

Responding to questions, the three MPs agreed in one voice that India is a tolerant country and there are enough avenues for the people to air their views.

"India as a country have a conservative and contemporary side to it. Yes, there was a rhetoric... What hap-

Pic. For Representation pened is we actually debated in the parliament. We aired (our views) out. Under no circumstances we can say that India is becoming an intolerant country. Nobody is saying that India is intolerant. The debate is what the attitude of this government towards tolerance is," Dev said.

Thakur said that image of a nation, including that of the US, cannot be based on one big event or incident.

"That does not give the right picture. India has been a tolerant nation. It will be a tolerant nation," he said.

Thakur asked what would happen when someone in the US would show the people behind 9/11 as

something rather than terrorist.

"Nation should be a priority," he said and rued about the nature of coverage of some unfortunate incidents by the media.

The three MPs refrained from commenting in their views on the American presidential elections. But were confident that IndoUS ties would move ahead at the same pace as it has in the last decade and a half.

The GST, which will subsume over a dozen central and state levies including excise duty, service tax and VAT, is one of the most important tax reforms in India.

It was passed from Rajya Sabha in August.(PTI)

"Anurag Thakur said that image of a nation, including that of the US, cannot be based on one big event or incident"

EDITORIAL

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

Today's quote

“

“Don’t take rest after your first victory because if you fail in second, more lips are waiting to say that your first victory was just luck.”

A.P.J Abdul Kalam

Only court orders cannot solve the Cauvery problem In India, sometimes politicians get away with just about anything. Here is a fine example: After two days of raging violence in Karnataka that led to large scale destruction of expensive public property, Karnataka chief minister Siddaramaiah came out on Tuesday to make an appeal for peace. However, his appeal did not sound convincing because he added that the Supreme Court order on sharing of Cauvery water with Tamil Nadu (12,000 cusecs water to Tamil Nadu per day till September 20) was an “unfair” decision and that it would be difficult to carry out the order.

Bengaluru has been placed under curfew after deadly violence erupted over the long-running dispute. Around 15,000 police officers were deployed on the largely deserted streets of the country’s IT capital to enforce a curfew, after rampaging, stone-pelting mobs set buses and cars ablaze.

Instead of this petty and emotional ‘we are the aggrieved party’ remark, Mr Siddaramaiah’s message should have been to the point: People must accept the highest court’s order with grace, not indulge in violence and his government will help the people in whatever way it can to fix any water shortage in the state.

The Karnataka CM’s half-hearted appeal for peace also cannot cover one more critical failure of the state government: Why did it allow things go out of hand when it was known that Cauvery waters is an emotive issue and any decision on sharing the water during lean monsoon years can lead to trouble?

The 124-year-old Cauvery water dispute is among the rare water disputes that have not been resolved because it is linked to inadequate rain. In fact, until 1991, the dispute did not lead to violent protests. The two state governments would talk to each other and decide on the quantum of water to be released. But everything changed after 1991 thanks to chauvinistic politicians on both sides, who used identity politics to further their political ambitions.

On Tuesday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the “dispute can only be solved within the legal ambit”. Along with a legal solution, there has to be several other concurrent efforts for a long-term resolution. First, political parties have to desist from playing chauvinistic identity politics; second, there has to be dialogue among stakeholders like the Cauvery Family dialogue, which was functional from 2002-03 till about 2012, to understand their requirements; third, the cropping pattern both in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu has to move towards less water-intensive crops; and finally, better water management in the river basin

Why the Indian voter does not punish the rogue Shaming is an arrogant word. It is effort masquerading as feat. The fact is that the consequence of shaming is not always shame. To be shamed you have to first give the world the right to shame you, which some do not grant because they wish to persist with what they believe is right.

Others, many Indian politicians especially, have the gift of shamelessness, the reason why they are successful politicians in the first place. Long before Trump, they were Trump.

Indian journalists know the feeble relationship between shaming and shame very well because they are, among other things, in the business of shaming. Journalism is also a complaint to the people about rogue public figures, chiefly politicians. In this aspect, too, the profession appears to have very little impact. For decades, journalism has exposed political crime, corruption and other forms of immorality. For decades, the same politicians or their types have thrived.

As another election season begins there might be more video clips of sex scandals and many revelations of corruption. But the shaming would have little effect at the polls. As to why this is so, the middle class often whisper in private that the average Indian voter is a fool. People who do not even whisper honestly would say that the poor elect the rogues because there are no better options in the fray. But there could be a deeper reason why our politicians survive revelations and shame, and why there is no such thing in Indian politics as a career-ending scandal.

The elite presumption that a typical voter wants his politician to be a representation of the common man is fundamentally wrong. He may even say things to that effect parroting respectable views, but he appears to condone, and even admire, the politician who is uncommon. In an unequal nation, an equal man is probably an unremarkable man. For long, the voter has granted a status to politicians that is similar to a concession he has made for actors — that they are a special class of human beings who need not be like regular people, or even ideal people, who are generally useless. As a result, the voter’s real reasons for rejecting a politician are seldom moral. .

In Chennai, where I was raised, the media never spoke about the nature of the relationship between J Jayalalitha and her mentor MG Ramachandran, but the voters — the autorickshaw drivers and maids and bus conductors — openly admired her for her unusual social status. The media, at least then, never used to mention the fact that her rival M Karunanidhi had two wives, but his marital status never bothered his followers even though they themselves did subscribe to popular notions of morality. In the near future, overt homosexuals and eunuchs, too, may fare well in Indian politics.

Apart from small material benefits, the voter also expects his politicians to be strong enough to protect him from caste and religious violence. Such a capacity, again, is widely perceived as something that the street-smart possess more than the righteous. The upper classes, who are not vulnerable to communal violence, would claim that the Right-wing is a lesser evil than the corrupt. Those who are easier to hack into pieces would have the contrary view.

In either case, there is too much at stake for the average Indian voter to reject a politician just because he has been shamed on moral grounds.

PAGE 6

15th September is International Day of Democracy

15th September is International Day of Democracy Every individual want food and shelter; education and health care and more economic opportunity. All of us want to live without fear. People want to be able to trust their Governments and global, national and local institutions. Everyone must get human rights ad government must make sure that people have human rights. When we talk about people and their rights and government one word that strikes our mind is democracy.

In India, democracy is one of the most commonly used words. Democracy is vital in Indian policts as well as global politics. India being the largest democracy needs to re look at the true spirit of democracy because it still in confusing due to some instances whether it is farce or reality. In simple democracy is with the common people or masses where a system a managed or governed by the people. There is no monarchy or there is no king as the people are supreme. People are governed by the people who are elected through

voting or other means of Goal is both an end in itself democratic selection. and a crucial part of delivIn September 2015, all ering sustainable develop193 Member States of the ment in all countries. It has United Nations adopted the been seen by many com2030 Agenda for Sustain- mentators as the transfora b l e mational Develgoal and opment Ranjan K Baruah key to -- a plan ensuring f o r that the achieving a better future for Agenda can be accomall, laying out a path over plished.

15 years to end extreme poverty, fight inequality and To achieve SDGs democinjustice, and protect our racy is important. Every naplanet. At the heart of the tion especially developing Agenda are the Sustainable nations must focus on good Development Goals, which governance and transparcall for mobilizing efforts to ency. To avoid corruption end all forms of poverty, and make sure that poor fight inequalities and tackle people gets benefits, it is climate change, while en- important to have accountsuring that no one is left ability in government activibehind. ties. In spite of being the largest democracy India Sustainable Development must work for the welfare Goal (SDG) 16 addresses of its citizen as there are democracy by calling for millions without some of inclusive and participatory the basic amenities. societies and institutions. It The International Day of aims to "Promote peaceful and inclusive societies for Democracy provides an opsustainable development, portunity to review the state provide access to justice for of democracy in the world. all and build effective, ac- 15th September has been countable and inclusive in- observed as International stitutions at all levels." The Day of Democracy. Democ-

racy is as much a process as a goal, and only with the full participation of and support by the international community, national governing bodies, civil society and individuals, can the ideal of democracy be made into a reality to be enjoyed by everyone, everywhere.

ments covering group rights (e.g. indigenous peoples, minorities, people with disabilities) are equally essential for democracy as they ensure an equitable distribution of wealth, and equality and equity in respect of access to civil and political rights.

The values of freedom, respect for human rights and the principle of holding periodic and genuine elections by universal suffrage are essential elements of democracy. In turn, democracy provides the natural environment for the protection and effective realization of human rights. These values are embodied in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and further developed in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights which enshrines a host of political rights and civil liberties underpinning meaningful democracies.

Ban Ki-moon, SecretaryGeneral's Message for 2016 has said that "democratic principles run through the Agenda like a golden thread, from universal access to public goods, health care and education, as well as safe places to live and decent work opportunities for all. Goal 16 addresses democracy directly: it calls for inclusive societies and accountable institutions."

The rights enshrined in the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights and subsequent human rights instru-

He also added that "our new Agenda aims to leave no one behind, which means we must reach those who are rarely seen or heard, and who have no voice or group to speak on their behalf. The implementation of the Goals must be underpinned by a strong and active civil society that includes the weak and the marginalized.

We must defend civil society's freedom to operate and do this essential job."

Apart from government, civil society, media also has to play vital role. There must be space for civil society who can make the democracy more vibrant. The future is secured and vibrant when there is democracy in true sense. When there is act like Armed Forces Special Power Act then we need to think whether democracy is farce or fact.

Let us make our democracy more vibrant and government also needs to look the acts or polices which are not pro people and they must be scrapped. Human right is integral in democracy and violation is human rights is a challenge. Let there be more transparency and accountability around the world so that Sustainable Development Goals can be achieved by 2030.

Together we can all contribute towards sustainable future and let us take part in achieving SDGs. (Feedback may be sent to bkranjan@gmail.com)

Why healthcare access eludes India T he importance of ensuring healthcare access cannot be overstated for a developing country like India. This is because apart from the straightforward thesis that links health care to the well-being of citizens, it also enhances the productive capacity of its population thereby enhancing economic growth of the country.

Part IV of the Constitution of India talks about the Directive Principles of State Policy. Article 47 under part IV lists the “Duty of the State to raise the level of nutrition and the standard of living and to improve public health”.

Despite the consensus among political and academic circles of living up to the principle, successive governments have failed to address India’s health-care needs for a vast majority of its population.

This state of affairs has persisted for a number of varied reasons.

First, India’s healthcare infrastructure is largely inadequate to serve its vast population. To begin with, the total number of hospitals and health-care professionals, public and private included, fall short of addressing the total demand for healthcare services, despite being large in numbers.

According to the latest KPMG report, around 80 per cent of all doctors and 75 per cent of dispensaries serve 28 per cent of the country’s population.

Also, the focus of policymakers has been to address the demandside issues rather than the supply-side inefficiencies. This is evidenced by the focus on improving hygiene and environmental concerns to prevent the spread of ailments and diseases.

Although commendable, these efforts have failed to match demand with supply.

Second, dismal Behind the healthhealth-care expenditure care deficit

has aggravated the inad- pede the normal develequacy of our health- opment of this sector. A care infrastructure. In- large number of institudia accounts for over 17 tions and health-care per cent of the world’s providers like doctors, population while spend- equipment manufacturing less than 1 per cent ers, drug companies, of the world’s total and hospitals are not health expenditure. Our formally recognised by total healthcare expen- the state due to a host of diture stands at 4.1 per laws and regulations. cent of This G D P, h a s which inhibAMIT KAPOOR i s ited among a c the lowest in the world. cess to health care, and The way these funds are it is important to see disbursed to the States how this can be imand utilised adds to the proved, and more effecproblems. tive health care is provided to a larger numThere is usually a con- ber of people. The inefsiderable delay of funds ficiency in the sector disbursed for utilisation also creeps up with the in critical government widespread corruption schemes rendering them that ails both the public ineffective. Moreover, and the private sector. the funds allocated for skill building of healthFinally, the lack of care professionals are awareness and monitorusually not utilised ow- ing of diseases as well ing to lack of such hu- as the steps needed to man resources. eradicate them pose a serious challenge to the Third, problems of health-care problem. governance deficit and The success of polio regulatory capture arise eradication in the coundue to myriad laws and try provides a case in regulations which im- point. It was the result

Main Goal in Life A man was visiting a jungle where he found many arrows hitting the bulls eye on trees.

He looked around and found a boy with a bow and arrows.

thing to achieve this goal.

The fact is that people don’t know what their goal is.

We follow different things in life and

He complimented him, “You are such a great archer. All your arrows are hitting the bulls eye. Can you show me how you do it?”

The boy admitted shyly, “I am not such a good archer. I actually hit the arrow first and make the circle later.”

This is the case with most of successful people. Once they are successful, they build stories around their success as if they already know their goal from the beginning. They connect everything of their past with the goal to give an impression that they did every-

we discover our goal when our talents match with our pursuits. Your efficiency is much better in the field of your interest and you get far better results and rewards when you work in such field.

We get bored with anything soon and start trying

something else. Bill Gates has not stopped merely as an entrepreneur or as the richest man of the world .

He is now doing a lot of charitable work for the world. Tomorrow he may choose to contest for the President of USA post ,and if he feels so, he can do it.

Gandhi was an unsuccessful advocate. However, during his trip to South Africa, he discovered that he can be a great mass leader. He then became a politician.

Don’t worry if you don’t know what your main goal is because there is actually no predestined goal for anyone.

It is you who make that goal and it is you who have to accomplish that goal.

Your goal is your creation.

Set realistic goals for your life that suits your aptitude and abilities for leading a happy and contented life.

of incessant awareness campaigns and active participation of all stakeholders from healthcare providers to the beneficiaries, supplemented by strict monitoring by the government.

This kind of holistic approach is required for tackling the large number of diseases that still exist in India and are proliferating among its vulnerable population.

India remains one of the few countries where both communicable and non-communicable diseases are so largely prevalent. The changing disease patterns pose another serious challenge to the health-care sector and finding innovative drugs that can cure a large number of diseases should remain a priority.

Need for an integrated plan India requires an urgently integrated action on health care to make it universally accessible and affordable at the same time.

This will not just address the country’s health needs but also have a positive impact on its poverty and growth levels. Professor Amartya Sen has repeatedly argued for the same. He has been critical of the suggestion that countries should grow economically first and then invest in their social sector later. Comparing India’s and China’s growth rates, he argues that the main reason for the latter’s explosive growth cannot be attributed to the nature of its government, but to its higher investment in health and education.

Similarly, Japan’s rapid growth since the second decade of the 20th century can be understood in light of the higher investment in health and education after the Meiji restoration.

India needs to follow a similar strategy to make its citizens more competitive and act as an asset to the country’s growth.

Prevention Is Better Sir, It is often seen that our government wakes up from slumber only when an incident assumes an alarming proportion. For instance, spread of 'Dengue', no government worth its salt can escape the ignominy of underestimating it initially. Government wakes up only when several deaths occur. Even our national capital New-Delhi cannot claim immunity as several mosquito-borne deaths, have been reported.

Guwahati, meanwhile, is also afflicted with this mosquito-borne disease. We fail to understand, why the municipality of several towns of Assam fail to live up to the people's expectation - keeping the towns in a shabby stat. Dibrugarh is not an exception.

Dibrugarh municipality undertakes the works of removal of garbage from the bins as a routine exercise, ignoring flow of dirty water from myriad of small or big canals which remain stagnant. Only on certain selected canals near the main market cleaning is undertaken from time to time. Normally, small children fall easy prey to such diseases. Surprisingly, the

garbage bin in front of the Nursery section of the Salt Brook School near the Amolapatty Railgate is nauseating, so is the case with the one in between the Amolapatty L.P. School and the Salt Brook School (Amolapatty Chariali).

Even if the Dibrugarh municipality removes the garbage from the bins yet the cleaning left much to be desired. In the evening sometimes we walk along the road (foot-path being fully occupied by the vendors) in our evening stroll, a foul smell always welcomes us near the garbage bin. Garbage bins near the schools is a bad omen.

That apart, the municipality would do well if it can resort to fogging some areas fraught with stagnant water and thick jungles applying insecticides to prevent the mosquitoes from breeding. Preventive measures are always safe guards before it is too late.

Yours etc.

Ashok Bordoloi Dibrugarh

REST OF

PAGE 7

NORTHEAST 4 new border haats in Tripura parties to push demands Meghalaya delayed due to to empower tribals pending joint inspection: CM

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

IANS Agartala, Sep 14: Seventeen months ahead of crucial assembly polls in Leftruled Tripura, political parties, especially tribal-based parties, have stepped up their actions to push their demands including for a separate state.

Two tribal-based political parties -- Indigenous Nationalist Party of Tripura (INPT) and Indigenous People's Front of Tripura (IPFT) - would organise "Delhi Abhiyan" (march to Delhi) to press their demands to the central government.

"A five-member team of IPFT would leave here for New Delhi on Thursday to meet union Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Tribal Affairs minister Jual Oram and others to pursue our long pending demands," IPFT President Narendra Chandra Debbarma said on Wednesday.

NEIGRIHMS to get new director soon Agencies Shillong, Sep 14: The Centre has assured Rajya Sabha MP Wansuk Syiem that it will soon fill the vacant post of NEIGRIHMS director.

Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare Jagat Prakash Nadda has said in a letter to Syiem that "the Ministry has initiated the process for filling the vacant post of director".

Wansuk is a member of the Governing Council of NEIGRIHMS (North Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences). The super-specialty hospital is running without a head since July.

Earlier, Wansuk had demanded autonomous status for the institute similar to AIIMS. "Growth and expansion of NEIGRIHMS has been consistently stymied by the ad hocism on the part of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare," she had said.

No-confidence motion: Speaker to decide today Agencies Shillong, Sep 14: Speaker AT Mondal will inform the House on Wednesday, the third day of the autumn session of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly, whether the notice of the Opposition on no-confidence motion against the Government will be admitted.

On the second day of the session on Monday, Mondal had said if 10 members supported the motion, it could be considered for discussion in the House.

The Opposition served the notice of no-confidence motion on Monday citing overall failure of the State government at a time when the resolution seeking removal of the Speaker was fixed for discussion on Friday. The letter was jointly signed by NPP legislator James Sangma, UDP member Jemino Mawthoh and HSPDP's Ardent Basaiawmoit.

It was learnt that Chief Minister Mukul Sangma held a meeting with some Independents and his close associates on Tuesday to secure their commitment to the MUA-II government.

According to the Opposition, law and order problems, financial crunch and crime against women and children are causes for concern.

He said: "We would apprise the union Home Minister about the August 23 incident in Agartala. The indigenous tribal people are deprived in Tripura.

They need more empowerment."

IPFT's acting general secretary Maybar Kumar Jamatia would lead the team for the "Delhi Abhiyan" and submit a memorandum containing their demands to the union ministers.

In the ethnic trouble, at least 24 people, including five policemen, were injured and 17 vehicles badly damaged on August 23 in Agartala after activists of IPFT took out a rally demanding a separate state.

Both the INPT and IPFT have been demanding more power to Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council

(TTAADC), a constitutional elected body, introduction of inner-line permit in Tripurato protect the tribals, recognition of tribal language - Kokborok - in the 8th Schedule of the Constitutions, reservation of 50 per cent seats for the tribals in the 60-member Tripura assembly.

The IPFT has been agitating for the creation of a separate state, carved out by upgrading the TTAADC area. The TTAADC was formed in 1987 under Sixth Schedule of the Constitution to protect and safeguard the political, economic and cultural interests of the tribals.

The politically important council constitute two third of Tripura's 10,491 sq.km area.

The INPT, which opposes the separate state demand, would organise a six-

hours sit-in-demonstration in Delhi and meet the central ministers in the first week of December.

"We would highlight our demands during our "New Delhi Abhiyan". We have taken this decision at our central working committee meeting held here on Tuesday," INPT spokesman Srota Ranjan Khisa said on Wednesday.

He said that the INPT would organise a mass campaign during the next two months in support of its demands across the state. The INPT would hold a meeting with its four frontal organisation leaders on September 22 to make successful the upcoming party programme.

In Tripura politics, tribals and tribes-based political parties play a vital role as 20 seats in the 60-member Tripura assembly are reserved for the tribals,

who constitute a third of Tripura's four million populations.

Political analyst Tapas Dey said that though almost all political parties, including the ruling CPI-M (Communist Party of IndiaMarxist), CPI (Communist Party of India), opposition Congress, Bharatiya Janata Party and Trinamool Congress strongly opposed the IPFT's separate state demand, the tribal party has gained base among the tribals spearheading the demand.

"Except the CPI-M, all other opposition political parties have to forge electoral alliance with either INPT or IPFT to get the tribal reserved seats in the Tripura assembly. That's why the political parties have maintained a close rapport with them and other tribal parties," Dey told IANS.

PTI Shillong, Sep 14: The construction of four new border haats designated along the Indo-Bangladesh border in Meghalaya is delayed pending a joint inspection of officials from both the countries, Chief Minister Mukul Sangma said on Wednesday.

"The constructions of the new border haats could not be started as a joint inspection of the sites with Bangladeshi officials is yet to be conducted," Mukul told the Assembly during Question Hour on Wednesday.

He said officials from that country have been repeatedly postponing the dates of inspection for which the construction could not be taken up.

India and Bangladesh have approved setting up of four more border haats along the Indo-Bangladesh border in Meghalaya

Chief Minister Mukul Sangma aimed at increasing bilateral trade between the two countries and improving border residents' living conditions.

Of the approved haats, two would be in East Khasi Hills Bholaganj and Ryngku and one each in South West Khasi Hills (Nolikata near Ranikor) and South Garo Hills

(Sibari), Mukul said.

According to the Chief Minister, the matter has been brought to the notice of the Centre and they have assured to take up the issue with Bangladesh.

Two border haats are in operation in the state at Kalaichar in South West Garo Hills district and Balat in East Khasi Hills district.

184-ft statue to honour Tripura's last king BJP will win Manipur election, says Shah

184-ft statue of Tripura's last ruler Maharaja Bir Bikram

Agencies Agartala, Sep 14: Following the initiative to rename the Agartala Airport after Tripura's last ruler Maharaja Bir Bikram, BJP has announced it will build a 184-feet-high statue of the king at Malancha

Niwas, the royal family's holiday palace inAgartala.

The committee for the statue of unity Tripura MBB memorial was formed and headed by senior BJP leader Parikshit Debbarma, BJP president Biplab

Deb said. The committee has decided the statue will be erected as a tribute to the ruler for his contribution to the development of the state.

"The statue will be made of bronze. The ongoing construction of the 182metre-high Sardar

Vallabhbhai Patel inspired us," Parikshit Debbarma said.

The statue will display names and details of the 184 kings of Bir Bikram's dynasty. "We will discuss the proposal with those in charge of Malancha Niwas. We will also seek permission from the ministry of civil aviation," Debbarma added.

Born in 1908, Bir Bikram ascended the throne in 1923. He was the 184th ruler of the Manikya dynasty. Having travelled across India, Europe and America, Bir Bikram had encountered leaders from across the world - an experience that he drew upon to develop Tripura as a modern state.

Before India gained Independence, Bir Bikram had decided that his kingdom would be a part of India and not Pakistan. He died three months before India gained Independence. He had, by then, settled Tripura's accession to the newly independent India.

Mini composting Kukis observe 'black day', plant at Marten seek justice for 'genocide' almost complete Agencies Shillong, Sep 14: The mini composting plant at Marten in Mawiong is almost ready and all set to be inaugurated next week.

Sources said the indigenous method of composting will be practised in the new plant at Marten. They added that the work for scientific landfill is going on in full-swing and 80 per cent of it has been completed.

The landfill, once complete, will be a relief for the residents of Mawiong as the stench will no longer pervade the area.

The present condition of Marten was also discussed in the ongoing Autumn Session of the Meghalaya Legislative Assembly and many MLAs have expressed concern over the deplorable condition of the wholesale market nearby.

According to sources, the distribution of 1.03 lakh dustbins to around 50,000 families living in the nonmunicipal areas of Shillong under the Asian Development Bank project will start shortly and the dustbins are likely to reach Shillong at the end of this month.

The dustbins will be distributed for segregation of biodegradable and non-biodegradable wastes on residents' doorstep. The process of distributing the green and blue dustbins is complete in the municipal areas of the city.

In addition, 16 vehicles will reach Shillong from where they will be distributed in different localities.

When asked about the poor response of the shopkeepers who were asked to buy their own colour-coded dustbins, sources said the Shillong Municipal Board would publish a final notice in newspapers at the end of this month after which the civic board will start imposing fines on shopkeepers who fail to use the dustbins. Also, the Board workers will get uniforms for easy identification.

It may be mentioned that the Shillong Municipal Board in the last couple of months has apprehended many people who dumped their garbage in open places and streams.

A straight fine of Rs 5,000 was imposed on such defaulters.

Agencies Imphal, Sep 14: Kukis from across the state staged rallies on Tuesday denouncing what they describe as an act of genocide perpetrated on them byNational Socialist Council of Nagaland (Isak-Muivah) militants in the 1990s.

Between 1992 and 1997, NSCN (IM) had launched attacks across Manipur, killing 905 Kukis and burning down 360 Kuki villages.

One lakh villagers became refugees on their own land.

Forming the third largest community in Manipur, Kukis observe September 13 as a 'black day' every year.

Observing Sahnit Ni or 'black day' to mourn the victims, the Kuki Inpi Manipur (KIM) submitted a memorandum to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, demanding that these criminal acts be brought to and resolved in a court of law before the Centre and NSCN (IM) reach an agreement in the ongoing peace talks. KIM is the apex body of Kuki civil bodies in Manipur.

"The demand for justice has not been met despite the fact that the government is morallu obliged to

resolve it," the memorandum, signed by KIM president Thangkhosei Haokip and general secretary Khamliankhup Lianzaw, said. It added that the Kuki Inpi will be "forced to decide the collective political fate of the people" if the Centre fails to address this.

The 'black day' was observed across Manipur in all Kuki-dominated areas under the aegis of KIM and the Kuki Students' Organisation (KSO).

Six successive prime minister have shown complete disregard for the Kukis' cry for justice, KIM alleged.

"If the government is trying to protect the NSCN (IM) by feigning ignorance of its acts of genocide, there is every reason for us to believe that the government was instrumental in the grand design of the Kuki genocide," the memorandum said.

"As such, the Prime Minister is fervently requested to consider the demand for justice by the Kuki people because what is a peace agreement for the government could only indicate the beginning of another tumultuous period in the region," the memo said.

IANS Imphal, Sep 14: The Congress is bound to lose the Manipur assembly election and the BJP is sure to take power, Bharatiya Janata Party President Amit Shah said on Wednesday.

Addressing a meeting at Hafta Kangjeibung here, Shah said: "The non-performing and corrupt Congress government has to go. From the huge gathering here, I am confident there will be a BJP government in the state."

Accompanying Shah to Imphal were HRD Minister Prakash Javedkar and Assam Finance Minister Himanta Bishwa Sarma. Assembly elections are due in Manipurearly next year.

There was no sign of development in Manipur although there was no shortage of funds, the BJP leader asserted.

"The CAG has established that the Manipur government cannot produce utilisation certificate for Rs 5,000 crore," he said.

"As and when people start asking questions about this looted amount, the Congress shall not be able to face even the elections."

Shah said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had said even before taking office, that the northeast should get special attention.

"Modi's directive is that a central minister should visit the northeast region

every 15 days. This is to ensure speedy development of the backward region."

The entire northeastern region is to be brought on the rail map, Shah added.

"The road connectivity is being extended to Myanmar and other Southeast Asian countries."

Sarma compared Manipur's Chief Minister Okram Ibobi to former Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi.

Javedkar added: "Developmental funds have gone into private pockets."

During his two-day stay, Shah and his team are expected to chalk out a strategy to wrest power in 2017.

Roy dares Congress 'rebels' to revolt or support Govt Agencies Shillong, Sep 14: Opposition Leader Donkupar Roy has dared the 'rebel' Congress legislators to come out openly if they want to effect a change of leadership or else to express their allegiance to Chief Minister Mukul Sangma to end the episode of uncertainty in the state politics.

Speaking to The Shillong Times, Roy said there should be an end to uncer-

tainty in the wake of the no-confidence against the Congress-led government as well as the Speaker.

"I want this drama to end, let them (those opposing the chief minister) express their wish openly," said the former chief minister.

According to Roy, there are reports that some legislators within the Congress might side with the Opposition to overthrow the current government.

"Whatever be the support and intentions we hope this should be the last attempt, and if the Chief Minister wants to remain, let it be, but if the opponents feel that there is a need for change, let them express it openly and solve the matter so that everything is clear," Roy said.

The UDP leader said the intention of the pro and anti-regime should be that the government functions properly in the long run.

Illegal charcoal trade flourishes in WKH Agencies Nongstoin, Sep 14: Illegal charcoal business in the Mawlangsu area of West Khasi Hills is continuing unabated even after the massive operation conducted by forest officials two months ago.

On visiting the area after a gap of two months, this correspondent found that many charcoal pits were still functioning along the road and labourers were loading trucks, which will take the charcoal to Byrnihat through Umsaw Road.

A source privy to the developments said the

charcoal is being used

by Shakhambani Ferro Alloy Private Ltd located at Riwiang in West Khasi Hills. This could not be verified immediately.

When this correspondent enquired whether there is patrolling in the area, it was revealed that the charcoal mafia here are running the business with connivance of forest officials. When asked to disclose the name of the forest officials involved, the charcoal mafias refused but assured that nothing would happen to them.

Two months ago, forest officials had seized more

than 100 tonnes of illegal charcoal from West Khasi Hills.

When Manjunath C, DFO-Territorial Division (Shillong), was informed about the involvement of some forest officials in the illegal business, he said he was not aware of this but at the same time refuted the allegation.

He, however, promised to send a team to inquire the matter.

Manjunath also said if the Department found that the allegation is true, it will have no option but to take action against the erring officials.

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

INTERNATIONAL

PAGE 8

Typhoon Meranti, world's strongest Obama mulls easing Myanmar sanctions as Aung San Suu Kyi visits storm this year, hits Taiwan Taiwan, Sept 14: More than half a million homes lost power across Taiwan on Wednesday and five people were injured as Super Typhoon Meranti, which is believed to be the world's strongest storm this year, hit the island.

Taiwan's Central Weather Bureau warned that the Category 5 storm threatened several southern and eastern cities, including Kaohsiung and Hualien, with strong winds, torrential rain and flooding.

Meranti, which grew in strength the closer it got to Taiwan, was carrying maximum winds of 227 km per hour (141 mph) as it clipped the south of the island, the weather bureau said.

"This typhoon is the world's strongest so far this year," weather bureau spokeswoman Hsieh Peiyun said.

Taiwan's Central Emergency Operation Centre said five people were injured, while many power lines were brought down, some by falling trees, cut-

More than half a million homes lost power across Taiwan. ting electricity to 550,000 households.

"The damage from Meranti will continue to rise as the storm slams the island," said emergency centre spokesman Li Weisen.

"Losses probably cannot be avoided, but we'll try to minimise casualties."

Trains and shipping services were disrupted, while offices and schools in Kaohsiung and other

cities were closed and almost 1,500 people were evacuated, the centre said.

Most domestic flights have been cancelled, including all of those from Kaohsiung airport, where international flights were also severely affected.

Taiwan will feel the full force of the typhoon through Wednesday and into Thursday before it barrels into China, meteorologists said.

Washington, Sept 14: President Barack Obama hopes to highlight a foreign policy success Wednesday when he hosts Myanmar de facto leader Aung San Suu Kyi in the Oval Office, a symbolic image of his moves toward repairing broken US relationships across the globe.

Coming only days after Obama departed Asia for the final time as president; the visit also underscores the administration's driving foreign policy pivot toward the continent, an approach that's come with mixed success.

In his meeting with Suu Kyi, Obama hopes to ascertain whether the time is right to remove further economic sanctions on leaders in Myanmar,

which he hopes could spur greater economic development in the country. In November, when Suu Kyi was elected to her post, the US removed certain government-run businesses and some banks from a blacklist in an attempt to jump-start trade.

A latest round of sanctions relief could ease restrictions on Myanmar's military, which ran the country for decades and still controls important government functions like its borders and armed forces.

It's not clear whether Suu Kyi would support such sanctions relief, however, given the military's stilloutsized role in governing her country.

The US is also looking to end restrictions on imports of jade and other precious

One of Japan's most active volcanoes is due for a major eruption within the next 30 years, say scientists who have studied a build-up of magma there.

Sakurajima volcano, located 49km (30 miles) from the Sendai nuclear plant, is also close to Kagoshima, a city of 600,000.

Japan, Sept 14: The Sakurajima volcano on Japan's Kyushu island poses a "growing threat", researchers at the University of Bristol say.

The volcano, located 49km (30 miles) from the Sendai nuclear plant, is also close to Kagoshima, a city of 600,000.

Sakurajima's last deadly eruption was in 1914, when 58 people died.

The Japanese archipelago, which sits on the Pacific "Ring of fire", has more than 100 volcanoes.

Sakurajima regularly spews ash and there are many small explosions there each year, with the latest eruption being in February.

It is closely monitored by Japanese authorities and

one of two volcanoes at Level 3 out of 5 levels in Japan's volcanic warning system, which means that people are warned not to to approach the volcano.

"The 1914 eruption measured about 1.5km cubed in volume," said the study's lead author Dr James Hickey, who has now joined the University of Exeter's Camborne School of Mines.

"From our data we think it would take around 130 years for the volcano to store the same amount of magma for another eruption of a similar size meaning we are around 25 years away." Their research showed that 14 million cubic metres of magma is accumulating

Israel ex-prez Shimon Peres in serious condition after major stroke Israel, Sept 14: Former president and Nobel Peace Prize winner Shimon Peres, the last of Israel's founding fathers, was in serious condition on Wednesday after suffering a major stroke and doctors were treating him in intensive care.

Nationwide concern mounted over the condition of 93-year-old Peres, widely respected as an elder statesman both in Israel and abroad, after his stroke on Tuesday.

"Mr. Peres passed the night without any other incident," Yitzhak Kreiss, director of the Sheba Medical Centre at Tel HaShomer in Ramat Gan, told reporters outside the hospital near Tel Aviv.

"He is in a stable but still serious condition."

Kreiss spoke in Hebrew, but when speaking in English a short time later, he described

Peres's condition as "critical."

Peres's personal physician and son-in-law, Raphy Walden, said that Peres was responsive when his sedation was lessened.

"He seemed to follow what we were telling him," he said.

"Next time that we try to lessen his sedation I hope that we will be able to get in touch with him."

Kreiss had late Tuesday described Peres as having suffered a "major stroke with a component of bleeding."

He had been sedated in the intensive care unit and was breathing with the help of a respirator.

Doctors later decided not to operate for the time being.

Israeli newspaper Haaretz quoted the head of the hospital's stroke unit as saying "the damage isn't the main issue currently."

"We're working on getting

him to a state in which his life won't be in jeopardy," Dr. David Orion said.

Peres's son Chemi told journalists late Tuesday that "we are going to have to take difficult decisions apparently later, but not yet."

"Myself and my family members are going through difficult times, difficult hours," he said.

"I know that my father did not care about anything as much as he cares about people, as much as he cares about Israel, the Jewish people, and the people in Israel," he said.

"And I will take this opportunity on his behalf to send all of you his love."

The last of Israel's founding fathers, Peres has held nearly every major office in the country, including prime minister twice and president, a mostly ceremonial post, from 2007 to 2014.

The visit underscores Obama's foreign policy pivot toward Asia It is unclear whether Aung San Suu Kyi will support lifting sanctions

Aung San Suu Kyi meeting Obama. gems, which could prove a boon to Myanmar's fledgling economy.

"I think the biggest thing we can do is help their economy grow by opening up greater trade between Myanmar and the United States and other

countries around the world," US deputy national security adviser Ben Rhodes said last week during Obama's stop in Laos.

"Some of that involves us working with them so that they're strengthening the environment for in-

vestment and trade. Some of that involves sanctions relief, and we've taken steps to relax the sanctions and to authorize greater activity," he said.

"It's something that we continue to look at, because the purpose of the sanctions regime was to support a democratic transition, and some of the sanctions even were tied to the treatment of Suu Kyi specifically."

Indonesian clerics Maldives opposition leader in talks to 'topple' president issue fatwa against forest fires

Japan's Sakurajima volcano due for major eruption within 30 years, say scientists each year, enough to fill London's Wembley Stadium 3.5 times over.

They added that the rate at which the magma is accumulating is faster than it can be expelled in its regular smaller eruptions, which led them to infer that a major eruption is likely in the next 30 years.

They made these assessments based on new ways of studying and modelling the volcano's magma reservoir. Scientists say they hope these findings can help authorities plan for major eruptions.

"We know that being forewarned means we are forearmed and providing essential information for local authorities can potentially help save lives if an eruption was imminent," said Dr Hickey.

According to an associate professor at Kyoto University, new evacuation plans have already been prepared.

"It is already passed by 100 years since the 1914 eruption, less than 30 years is left until a next expected big eruption," said Dr Haruhisa Nakamichi, Associate Professor at the Disaster Prevention Research Institute, Kyoto University.

"Kagoshima city office has prepared a new evacuation plan from Sakurajima."

HIGHLIGHTS

Pic for representation.

Jakarta, Sept 14 : Indonesia's top Islamic clerical body said that it has issued a fatwa against intentionally starting forest fires in a bid to stop the blazes that cloak Southeast Asia in haze every year.

The religious edict by the Indonesian Ulema Council said it was "haram," or against Islamic law, for Muslims to start fires on purpose in forests or on plantation land.

"The Koran states that we are not allowed to harm the environment, and forest burning causes damage not only to the environment but also to people's health - even neighboring countries are complaining," Huzaemah Tahido Yanggo, head of the body's fatwa council, said.

The fires and subsequent smog occur annually to varying degrees in the archipelago's Sumatra island and the Indonesian part of Borneo during the dry season, and are started to quickly and cheaply clear land for palm oil and pulpwood plantations.

The blazes last year were among the worst in memory and cloaked large parts of Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore in choking smog for weeks.

Environment and Forestry Minister Siti Nurbaya Bakar welcomed the fatwa and said she hoped Islamic preachers would

spread news of it to local communities: "The most important follow-up is communicating it to the public."

Fatwas have no legal force and are aimed at encouraging the devout in the world's most populous Muslim-majority country against taking a certain course of action.

But it remained unclear whether the latest edict, issued Tuesday, would have any practical effect in the sprawling archipelago of more than 17,000 islands and 255 million inhabitants.

The council has previously issued fatwas to protect the environment, including one against the illegal hunting and trade in endangered animals in the biodiverse country, which environmentalists said was the world's first.

The move by the clerics follows efforts by Jakarta to prevent a repeat of last year's haze disaster. Authorities plan to stop granting new land concessions for palm oil plantations, and have established a new agency to restore millions of hectares of carbon-rich peatlands susceptible to fires.

The blazes have not been as serious this year with Singapore so far suffering just one day of serious haze, although it is unclear whether that is due to official efforts or a late rainy season.

US voices concern over Chinese money in Australian politics Canberra, Sept 14: The American ambassador to Australia has voiced U.S. concerns over China's impact on Australian politics, saying the United States wants the system reformed to remove the influence of Chinese political donations. Ambassador John Berry said in an interview with The Australian newspaper that the United States is "surprised" by the amount of Chinese money and influence in Australian politics and wants Australia to resolve

the foreign donation issue. The embassy confirmed in a statement that Berry had been accurately quoted in the interview, published Wednesday.

Last week, the opposition Labor Party called for foreign political donations to be banned after Labor Sen. Sam Dastyari stepped down from a senior role for asking a Chinese company to pay a 1,670 Australian dollar ($1,250) travel bill.

Colombo Sept 14: Exiled Maldives opposition leader Mohamed Nasheedhas said he is in talks with the former president, who repeatedly threw him in jail, to "legally topple" the current leader of the troubled honeymoon islands.

Nasheed became the first democratically elected president of the Maldives in 2008, but now lives in exile in London after he was jailed on terrorism charges that he says were politically motivated.

In the past he has accused Maumoon Abdul Gayoom, who ruled the Maldives for 30 years and is still regarded as the power behind the throne, of being behind his downfall.

But yesterday he indicated he wanted to bury the hatchet with Gayoom, amid reports of a rift between the former strongman leader and his half-brother, current President Abdulla Yameen.

"How can you build a future if you always want to go back to live in the past," Nasheed told reporters in Colombo via a

video link from London.

"Yameen's days are numbered. He has lost the support of the people and the international community.

We can restore democracy in the Maldives."

Nasheed said he had forgiven Gayoom and was in talks with his faction of the ruling Progressive Party of Maldives (PPM) "for a new political alignment".

He did not disclose details, but said he had visited Colombo late last month to meet fellow dissidents and map out a strategy to "legally topple" Yameen.

He served repeated jail terms under Gayoom's autocratic leadership before winning the country's first democratic election in 2008.

There was no immediate comment from Gayoom, however, and diplomats in Colombo were cautious about the prospect of such an alliance.

"The opposition was expecting Gayoom to get a section of his party to withdraw support for Yameen late last month, but for some reason that

did not happen," said one western diplomatic source in Colombo, speaking on condition of anonymity.

"It is not easy for the opposition to organise any agitation inside the country because all their leaders are either in jail or in exile."

An alliance between the 78-year-old Gayoom and Nasheed was unthinkable even a few months ago.

But an intensifying crackdown on political dissent in the atoll nation of 340,000 people has dented its popular image as an upmarket holiday paradise.

Almost all key opposition leaders and a number of ruling party dissidents have either been jailed or gone into exile since Yameen took office after winning a controversial run-off election against Nasheed in 2013.

In July, Gayoom's daughter Dunya Maumoon quit as foreign minister saying she did not agree with a plan to bring back the death penalty after nearly seven decades. (PTI)

Baloch activists protest against Pakistan outside UN The protest was organised by the Free Balochistan Movement (FBM) on Tuesday across the street from the world body's headquarters.

New York, Sept 14: A group of Baloch activists has held protests against Pakistan outside the UN headquarters here, demanding freedom and highlighting Pakistan's crimes against humanity in Balochistan.

The protest was organised by the Free Balochistan Movement (FBM) on Tuesday across the street from the world body's headquarters, around the time the 71st session of the General Assembly opened in the UN. Waving the US and Baloch flags, the small group of protesters held banners of 'Stop Human Rights violation in Baluchistan', 'Stop Bombing Balochistan' and 'Balochistan is not Pakistan' and stood around five dolls, smeared in red colour to portray blood and placed on the ground on a white banner that read 'Save Baloch Children'.

Some wore white T-shirts with the slogan 'Dire Human Rights Violations in Balochistan' written in black.

The men and women pro-

testing shouted slogans of 'India help Balochistan', 'Freedom for Balochistan', 'Stop Genocide of Baloch People', 'UN UN Where are you', 'Stop funding Pakistan', 'Balochistan is another Bangladesh' and 'Stop breaking Balochistan'.

The protestors accused Pakistani forces of killing around 5,000 over the past few years and causing nearly 20000 forced disappearances in Balochistan.

FBM said in a statement handed out at the protest that the demonstration aims to highlight the "illegal occupation and Pakistani state's crimes against humanity in Balochistan, and to give awareness about Baloch national struggle for freedom."

"It is the responsibility of the United Nations to take notice of the violations of its charter and state brutalities by Pakistan in Balochistan," FBM said.

The organisation said Pakistan has been committing gross human rights violations and killing innocent Baloch people since it occupied Balochistan in

1948 and "Pakistani state has made life difficult for Baloch by target killings, indiscriminate bombardment and enforced-disappearances."

The protests come just a week before heads of state and government descend at the world body's headquarters for the highlevel General Debate of the 71st UNGA session.

Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif will address the General Assembly on September 21, five days before External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj addresses the gathering of world leaders.

The US has said it does not support independence for Balochistan and respects the unity and territorial integrity of Pakistan.

In his address from the ramparts of the Red Fort on the occasion of 70th Independence Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had talked about the situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, Gilgit and Balochistan and said people from there have thanked him for raising their issues.

PAGE 9 EDUCATION What is Law?

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

10 Things for High-School Students to Remember Believe it or not, if you're in high school right now, you're at a great point in your life. You have your whole life in front of you. And now is a good time to start thinking about your future, to make some initial plans; just remember that plans can be easily changed.

Remember too, that experts predict that the average person will change careers - not just jobs more than five times in his or her lifetime. Now is the time to pursue your dreams!

And as you start thinking about one or more potential educational and career paths, here are 10 things to remember in the days ahead.

1. Take time to think about what you like to do; dream and imagine ideal careers : There are so many opportunities, so many different types of jobs and careers in a wide variety of industries - and there are also other career paths that are just emerging. Even if you are fairly sure of a career choice, take the time in high school to explore similar (or even vastly different) careers. Explore all your options. Examine your likes and dislikes and take a few career-assessment tests. Answer the question, if you could have any job right now, what would it be - and why? Don't let any barriers hold you back from finding the perfect career.

Example: Take the time for some career assessment and career exploration to expand your vision of potential majors and career paths.

2. Challenge yourself in high school, but don't overwhelm yourself. Do get the most out of high school as possible : When you can, take the tough and challenging schedule of classes; you'll learn more - and it will look good to the college admissions staff. Obviously, you need to stay focused on getting good grades, but

don't overload your schedule - or yourself so that it makes you sick or burnt out. Be sure to include at least one fun course in your schedule.

Example: If you have a passion for something, such as photography, find a way to schedule a photography course along with your other tougher college-prep courses.

3. Work, volunteer, or otherwise gain some experience : As with your education, the more you are exposed to, the more options will open to you as you search out careers. There are even a growing number of internship opportunities for high-school students.

Seek work and volunteer experiences in and out of school. And from a practical standpoint, work experience looks good on college applications - and on future job applications and resumes. And one other benefit if you are working in a paid position: spending money!

Just remember that school and grades have to come first, so only work if you can balance your schedule, manage your time.

Example: If you're interested in a career in journalism, start writing for your school newspaper and look into a parttime job at a local newspaper.

4. Get as much education as you can. We are now a society in which many jobs and careers require additional education or training beyond high school : Some careers even require a graduate degree before you can work in the field. Take advantage of all educational opportunities that come your way, such as summer educational opportunities and educational trips abroad. If financially possible - and there are many ways to help make it so - attend college; college graduates make a much higher salary, on average, than high-school graduates.

Example: If you have a passion for science or

math, instead of spending a summer goofing around the community pool, consider a summer math enrichment program or a space-agency program.

5. Talk with as many adults as possible about careers and colleges: The best way to find out about different careers is to ask people family, neighbors, friends, teachers, counselors - to tell you about their career and college experiences.

If you have not already, begin to build a network of adults who know you and are willing to assist you in your educational and career endeavors.

And for careers that truly interest you, consider asking each person if you can shadow him/her at work.

You could also consider conducting informational interviews at the same time as the shadowing, or as a less intrusive method of learning more about jobs and careers.

Example: If you have a passion for history and are considering a career as a college history professor, contact a local college and ask one or more of the history professors if you can shadow them or conduct an informational interview.

6. Remember that everyone must follow his or her own path in life : Don't spend too much time worrying what other people in your high school are doing - or letting their opinions about your dreams and ambitions affect your decision. And don't worry if you leave high school with no clear career path - that's partly what college is all about, discovering who you are and what you want to do in life. Everyone develops/ matures/grows at their own pace, so don't feel the need to rush to make a decision now… but don't use the fact that you have plenty of time to make a decision as an excuse not to at least start learning and researching potential career options.

Example: Many col-

leges offer special "discovery" programs for entering first-year students who have no real idea of majors and careers.

These programs expose you to a wide variety of classes, events, and speakers to help lead you onto a path of career discovery.

not summon the courage to tell her family. When she finally did confess her dislike, the world did not end, and her parents actually encouraged her to follow her passion.

Law is a system of rules that are enforced through social institutions to govern behavior.[2] Laws can be made by a collective legislature or by a single legislator, resulting in statutes, by the executive through decrees and regulations, or by judges through binding precedent, normally in common law jurisdictions. Private individuals can create legally binding contracts, including arbitration agreements that may elect to accept alternative arbitration to the normal court process. The formation of laws themselves may be influenced by a constitution, written or tacit, and the rights encoded therein.

laws, and (b) common law systems, where judge-made precedent is accepted as binding law.

Historically, religious laws played a significant role even in settling of secular matters, which is still the case in some religious communities, particularly Jewish, and some countries, particularly Islamic. Islamic Sharia law is the world's most widely used religious law.

The adjudication of the law is generally divided into two main areas referred to as (i) Criminal law and (ii) Civil law.

Criminal law deals with conduct that is considered harmful to social order and in which the guilty party may be imprisoned or fined.

9. It's never too The law shapes politics, early nor too late to get organized and be- economics, history and gin making plans : No society in various ways Civil law (not to be con7. People change; matter where you are in and serves as a mediator don't feel locked into high school, now is the of relations between fused with civil law jurisdictions above) deals with any college or career time to plan the remain- people.

A general distinction now : It's great to have der of your high-school can be made between (a) the resolution of lawsuits

an ideal plan for your life, but remember that things happen, and your plans may need to change… so keep an open mind - and keep your options open.

Some of your friends - or perhaps you - already know, or think you know, what you want to do in life. If so, that's fantastic, but don't become so myopic that you lose sight of other interesting opportunities. There are career paths that have not even started today that may be big in five or more years.

Example: One of my college students, whose parents are both lawyers, is certain his fate is to be a corporate attorney, and his plans currently include law school after his undergraduate education; however, he is also taking a full set of business courses, as well as some interesting electives, in case "things change" by the time he graduates.

8. Don't let anyone control your dreams and ambitions : You will

years - as well as your plans after high school.

Research your options for after graduation - technical schools, community colleges, four-year universities, etc. Start or continue your preparation for the various standardized tests (such as the SAT and ACT). Start thinking about teachers who might be willing to write letters of recommendation for you - and approach them when the time is near. Finally, make plans to fill any gaps in your plans - such as striving for better grades, taking tougher courses, gaining experience, or earning community-service hours.

Example: Many teachers get swamped with last-minute requests for letters of recommendation for college admission, so the earlier you approach the teachers who can write the best recommendations for you, the better off you'll be.

civil law jurisdictions (including Catholic canon law and socialist law), in which the legislature or other central body codifies and consolidates their

(disputes) between individuals or organizations.

Law provides a rich source of scholarly inquiry into legal history, philosophy, economic analysis and sociology.

Law also raises important and complex issues concerning equality, fairness, and justice. There is an old saying that 'all are equal before the law', although Jonathan Swift argued that 'Laws are like cobwebs, which may catch small flies, but let wasps and hornets break through.' In 1894, the author Anatole France said sarcastically, "In its majestic equality, the law forbids rich and poor alike to sleep under bridges, beg in the streets, and steal loaves of bread. Writing in 350 BC, the Greek philosopher Aristotle declared, "The rule of law is better than the rule of any individual." Mikhail Bakunin said: "All law has for its object to confirm and exalt into a system the exploitation of the workers by a ruling class".

Cicero said "more law, less justice" Marxist doctrine asserts that law will not be required once the state has withered away. Regardless of one's view of the law, it remains today a completely central institution.

Here are some best collages for studying law in India

National Law School of India University (NLSIU)

National Academy of Legal Studies and Research University (NALSAR)

10. Never stop learning… read, grow, be horribly miserable at best if you let a parent or other family member dictate your major or your career. Students often feel pressure to follow in an adult family member's career path, especially if s/he is footing the bill for college, but the worst thing you can do is choose a career to please someone else.

Example: A former student of mine came from "a family of accountants," and everyone was supposed to join the family CPA firm. The problem, however, was that she had no aptitude for numbers and hated accounting - yet could

and expand your mind.

Don't pass-up opportunities to learn and experience new things. Many teachers offer or assign summer and supplemental reading lists - look at these as opportunities for growth rather than a drag on your summer. The more you read, the more you'll know. It's a cliche, but knowledge is power.

Example: One highschool student was sure he wanted to be a teacher, but the more he read about cutbacks in educational spending and the decline in the educational experiences in many parts of the country, he decided he would be better off becoming a political activist for educational reform than as a teacher stuck in what he saw as a decaying system.

Campus Law Centre, University of Delhi

Final Thoughts About High School High school is a real transition time for teens, as you move into adulthood and the more adult issues of work, careers, and college. It should be a time of growth as well as a time of challenge.

Have fun, but get the best education you can so that you are positioned to take advantage of further educational opportunities… and no matter where you go after high school, never stop learning and growing.

Symbiosis Society's Law College National Law Institute University (NLIU) Faculty of Law, Aligarh Muslim University I.L.S. Law College Gujarat National Law University Faculty of Law - Banaras Hindu University

NATION

PAGE 10

India hits out at UNHCHR, says 'ambiguities' in its governance

Hit-and-run: BJP woman councilor, father killed

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

Geneva, Sept 14 : In yet another sharp rebuff to the UNHCHR's reference to Jammu and Kashmir, India today said it was concerned at "persisting ambiguities" in the UN body's governance and asserted that the violence in the state was "choreographed" from across the border.

Hitting out at Pakistan, India also emphasized that it has shared evidence of terrorists who came across the border with instructions to target the security forces by mingling with protesting crowds and using them as human shields.

"Terrorism, I would emphasize, is the most egregious violation of human rights," India's Ambassador and Permanent Representative at the UN in Geneva, Ajit Kumar, said during the General Debate on the oral update by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHCHR) during the 33rd Session of Human Rights Council here.

India also stated that the whole state of Jammu and Kashmir is its integral part

India today said that it was concerned at "persisting ambiguities" in the UN body's governance.

while Pakistan remains in illegal occupation of a part of its territory and the "two cannot and should not be equated".

"The neutrality of the phrase 'Indian-administered Kashmir' is, therefore, artificial. Furthermore, the state of Jammu and Kashmir has an elected democratic government that represents all sections of the people unlike the situation in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir," the Indian envoy said.

India in its statement said,

Heavy to very heavy rainfall to lash some parts of Odisha

People walking on road during heavy rainfall.

Bhubaneswar,Sept 14: Heavy to very heavy rainfall coupled with gusty surface wind is likely to lash some parts of Odisha in next 24 hours due to the formation of a low pressure area over Bay of Bengal on Sunday. Under the influence of upper air cyclonic circulation, a low pressure area has formed over Gangetic West Bengal and adjoining northwest Bay of Bengal, the meteorological centre here said in a bulletin.

Under its impact, rain or thundershower is likely to occur at most places over Odisha during next 24 hours. The system is also

likely to trigger heavy to very heavy rainfall at a few places with extremely heavy rainfall at one or two places over north Odisha, it said, adding heavy rainfall may take place at one or two places over South Odisha during next 24 hours.

Strong gusty surface wind with speed reaching 35 to 45 kmph and gusting up to 55 kmph would prevail along and off Odisha Coast. Sea condition would be rough to very rough and fishermen are advised to be cautious while venturing into the sea, the MeT office said.(PTI)

"Under the influence of upper air cyclonic circulation, rain or thundershower is likely to occur at most places over Odisha during next 24 hours".

"We have noted the reference in the High Commissioner's statement to the situation in the Indian State of Jammu and Kashmir".

"The current violence in Jammu and Kashmir has been choreographed from across our border since the death of a known terrorist belonging to an internationally proscribed terrorist organisation in police action in July this year.

"We have shared evidence of terrorists who came

across the border with instructions to target our security forces by mingling with protesting crowds and using human shields," he said.

In sharply critical comments, India said it has been appreciative of the High Commissioner's efforts at improving efficiency and streamlining OHCHR's work, however, it remained "concerned at persisting ambiguities in OHCHR governance and administrative arrangements.

High

Commissioner's proposed Change Initiative requires more clarity."

Kumar also stressed that Jammu and Kashmir has started to move towards normalcy after sustained and system-wide efforts by both the central and the state governments, including the exercise of maximum restraint by the security forces, 7000 of whom have sustained injuries till date.

India's statement came in reaction to the remarks by the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein on the situation in Jammu and Kashmir.

In his opening statement at the meet, Hussein had said, "We had previously received reports, and still continue to do so, claiming the Indian authorities had used force excessively against the civilian population under its administration. We furthermore received conflicting narratives from the two sides as to the cause for the confrontations and the reported large numbers of people killed and wounded. (PTI)

Shivpal says he will abide

by Mulayam's decision Saifai (UP), Sept 14: Amid speculation that he will resign from the UP cabinet, senior Samajwadi Party leader Shivpal Yadav, who was stripped of key portfolios by his nephew and Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, today said giving and taking portfolios is the discretion of the CM and he will abide by the decision of Mulayam Singh Yadav.

"It is the discretion of CM to give (or take) portfolios and remove officers and keep his advisors. I will follow netaji's directions and will fulfill responsibilities given by him," he told reporters when asked about speculation on his resignation.

Asked about his future course of action, Shivpal said, "I will talk to netaji.

People of the state have full faith in netaji and the Samajwadi Party".

"I will be going to Lucknow and discuss (with party workers). We will fight elections together," he said.

Over thousand of supporters of Shivpal gathered outside his residence in Saifai and the PWD guest house to express solidarity with him as speculation was rife

SP leader Shivpal Yadav

that he might resign.

The Chief Minister had yesterday stripped his uncle Shivpal Yadav of key ministerial portfolios, hours after his removal as the party's state unit chief and appointment of the latter in his place.

Sharp differences in the Yadav family came out into the open as the Chief Minister shunted Chief Secretary Deepak Singhal, considered close to Shivpal, barely two months after his appointment, setting off a chain of developments that saw the SP supremo ousting his son as state party chief and replacing him

with Shivpal.

Hours after Mulayam made his bother and senior cabinet minister the UP unit head of the ruling party, in an angry retort, Akhilesh clipped his uncle's wings by stripping him of the plum PWD, irrigation and cooperative portfolios.

Differences between Akhilesh and Shivpal have been reported on several occasions, including on the choice of official to be appointed as the state's chief secretary after Alok Ranjan's term ended, and stalling of Qaumi Ekta Dal's merger with SP. (PTI)

Dharamshala film fest to be held in November Dharamshala, Sep 14: The fifth Dharamshala International Film Festival (DIFF) will be held from November 3-6 at M c L e o d g a n j , Dharamsala.

DIFF is presented by White Crane Arts & Media, a trust founded by veteran filmmakers Ritu Sarin and Tenzing Sonam to promote contemporary cinema, art and independent media practices in the Himalayan region of India.

"This is our fifth year and it means a great deal to us to have reached this milestone," Sarin said in a statement.

"DIFF has surpassed all our expectations; from starting out as a small

event in a town with no cinemas to becoming a truly international festival, with filmmakers, guests and audiences looking forward to coming to here each year from all over the world," Sarin added.

Sonam said they hope to continue building on the qualities for which DIFF has become known -- showcasing a selection of indie films from India and around the globe, encouraging discussion between filmmakers and film lovers in an intimate yet casual atmosphere.

"At the same time, a priority this year is to expand its outreach to local communities, schools and colleges," Sonam

added.

This year, DIFF unveils a new look designed by Wieden+Kennedy Delhi, who have come on board as the Creative Partners for the festival.

Hemant Sreekumar, Director of Experience, explained: "DIFF's new logotype was evolved out of the linear aspects of Buddhist art, whereas the colour thematic was inspired by the artistNicholas Roerich's ethereal himalayan hues."

For the fourth year in a row, the shorts selection has been curated by filmmaker Umesh Kulkarni, who has been a DIFF participant and supporter from the first edition.

DIFF's Children's Film Programme is curated by children's media specialist Monica Wahi, who selected the films last year as well.

DIFF will also present a selection of videos from the collection of its longterm collaborator, Thyssen-Bornemisza Art Contemporary.

DIFF has announced the first six films from this edition. These include: 'A Syrian Love Story' by British director Sean McAllister; Rajeev Ravi's third directorial v e n t u r e 'Kammatipaadam'; South Korean director Jeon Soo-il's 'A Korean in Paris'; Iranian director Rokhsareh Ghaem

Maghami's 'Sonita'; Thailand's director Pimpaka Towira's "The Island Funeral"; and Marathi film 'Lathe Joshi' by Mangesh Joshi.

The gala also continues its Film Fellows programme, which was first set up in 2014 to enable budding filmmakers from the Indian Himalayan region to attend the festival and participate in mentorship sessions with established filmmakers. Filmmakers Umesh Kulkarni and Anupama Srinivasan will mentor the fellows.

This year sees a change of venue from the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts to the Tibetan Children's Village.(PTI)

Kollam, Sep 14 : In an apparent case of hit-and-run, a 23-year-old BJP councillor here and her father, returning home after Onam celebrations, were killed when their two-wheeler was hit by a car near Altharamoodu, police said today.

Police later found that three youths, who are suspected to have been be in an inebriated condition, were in the car when the mishap occurred last night.

Kokila S Kumar, a councillor of Kollam Corporation, died on the spot while her father Sunil Kumar, 50, succumbed at a private hospital in neighbouring Thiruvananthapuram in the wee hours today.

The accident occurred when they were returning home after attending an Onam celebration organised by a local resi-

People, who reached the spot immediately, said the occupants of the car were allegedly in an inebriated state.

dents association.

The car was cruising at a high speed when it hit the two-wheeler from the rear and halted briefly before speeding away, police said.

Local people, who reached the spot immediately, said the occupants of the car

were allegedly in an inebriated state.

Police have identified the owner of the car, which was found abandoned at a house at near Sakathikulagara.

Police said a search is on for the three youths. (PTI)

CBI files probe report in 1984 riots case New Delhi, Sept 14: The CBI on Wednesday filed a report in a Delhi court on its further probe into a 1984 anti-Sikh riots case in which Congress leader Jagdish Tytler was earlier given clean chit for his alleged role.

The report was filed in a sealed cover before link magistrate Rakesh Kumar Singh who fixed its consideration by the concerned court for September 28.

During the hearing, the court rejected CBI prosecutor's submission seeking a long date on the ground that he was busy in other matters.

"You (prosecutor) have other cases listed in courts is no ground for seeking a long date. Why are you not filing the report as asked by the concerned court earlier," the magistrate asked.

When the prosecutor said the report was ready and he would file it before the court, the magistrate said "you file the report now and take the next date when the concerned court hears the matter."

CBI's plea seeking a long date was vehemently opposed by H S Phoolka, senior advocate representing riot victims, saying it had sought time thrice for the purpose and the court had given it the last chance at the last hearing on July 11.

The court had given a last

The case pertains to Congress leader Jagdish Tytler who was earlier given clean chit for his alleged role.

chance to CBI to complete its further probe in two months, observing that justice delayed amounted to justice denied.

After the court's earlier direction, CBI had recently questioned Tytler in connection with the riots case on September 9 when he had answered questions put by the investigating officers.

The court had earlier pulled up the agency for not taking proper steps to complete the probe and had made it clear that if no fruitful results are shown in two months, CBI's Superintendent of Police would have to explain.

It had also directed CBI to write to the Canadian High Commission for information regarding the case.

The case pertains to the riots at Gurdwara Pulbangash in north Delhi where three persons were killed on November 1, 1984, a day after the assassination of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

The court had said it would monitor the probe every two months so that no aspect of the matter is left uninvestigated.

The CBI had re-investigated the case of killing of Badal Singh, Thakur Singh and Gurcharan Singh near the gurdwara after a court had in December 2007 refused to accept the closure report.

CBI had filed three closure reports in it.

Tytler has denied any role in the riots. (PTI)

Jet Airways Boeing 737 aircraft pilots to use iPads New Delhi, Sept 14: Over 1,000 pilots of Jet Airways Boeing 737 fleet are all set to go digital with the aviation regulator DGCA allowing the private airline to switch over to use of iPads from the from voluminous printed documents in the cockpit for flight operations.

As of now, these pilots are required to take numerous documents with them, including navigational charts, a flight operations manual, a minimum equipment list, among others, on each flight they operate as part of the DGCA regulations.

The iPads will come preloaded with documents and performance charts that pilots normally have to fill out as well as an onboard performance tool allowing them to gauge the aircrafts operating parameters with extreme accuracy, Jet Airways said in a release Jet Airways has already

trained 500 crew to operate the iPad as part of the first phase of the switch. The remaining pilots would be provided with the new electronic gadget in a phased manner over the next six to eight months, the airline said today.

The Mumbai-headquartered airline has over 1,000 pilots operating its narrow body B737 planes. The airline has 77 such planes in the fleet.

"With the introduction of the iPad, we are giving our pilots the tools to operate the aircraft more efficiently, safely and sustainably, all of which add up towards ensuring an even more exceptional flying experience for our guests," Jet Airways senior vice president for operations Nikhil Ved said.

The airline will thus become one of the first domestic carriers to issue iPads to all its pilots across its Boeing 737

fleet, having received clearance from the DGCA, it said.

The airlines wide-body B777-300ER planes already equipped with an Electronic Flight Bag, which contains all the route maps, charts, aircraft manuals and associated paperwork in a digital format.

The introduction of the iPad on the airlines B737 fleet, however, will make it even more convenient for pilots to access key flight information, and in greater detail than ever before, the release added. `The iPad will have capabilities to offer up a precise calculation of the payload an aircraft is carrying, allowing crew to maximize the aircrafts payload capacity, it said adding based on this success, the remaining fleet of Jet Airways would also be covered with iPads as Electronic Flight Bags (EFB) in a planned manner.(PTI)

DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

AGRICULTURE

PAGE 11

Engaging farmers in food research

GM mustard is tolerant of herbicides, says geneticist

With the global limits of land, fertiliser and freshwater use having being surpassed, it is a universal imperative to use optimal farming methods and attain higher levels of food production. Individual farmers hence need to own and use scientific practices of selecting crop variety, fertiliser use, timing of sowing and harvesting custommade for different regions.

The journal Nature Communications carries a report

by Weifeng Zhang, Guoxin Cao, Xiaolin Li, Hongyan Zhang, Chong Wang, Quanqing Liu, Xinping Chen, Zhenling Cui, Jianbo Shen, Rongfeng Jiang, Guohua Mi, Yuxin Miao, Fusuo Zhang and Zhengxia Dou, at the China Agricultural University, Beijing, the Hebei Academy at Shijiazhuang and the University of Pennsylvania, of the Science and Technology Backyard platforms, an innovative technology-transfer initiative of the China Agricultural University, which has raised farm produce in 22 provinces in the country.

STBs were first tried out in 2009 with small farmers in Quzhou county and then extended around the country. The model was adopted by other institutions and by late 2015 there were 71 STBs in action. Each of the early STBs had one faculty member and two graduate students from the university and the platforms set up by other organisations are also supervised by an academic scientist. The academics lived in the villages and got the farmers to participate in research, education and ex-

dations. The government also issued special logos to makers of trusted seeds or fertiliser products and the maker firms contributed money to yield contests and field demonstrations. They also followed STB events and recommendations and offered crop or region-specific products and marking or labels, for example, specifying target crops and providing instructions by linking application rate with yield.

Assessment

tension activities, sharing knowledge for effective transfer of Integrated Soilcrop System Management technology.

The Nature Communications paper describes a survey that the STBs first carried out, with 150 farmers randomly chosen from 10 villages in Qunzhou county.

A questionnaire covering the price of seed, method of selecting varieties to plant,

fertiliser, manure, irrigation and pesticide use, machinery services and labour, as well as farmers' information sources and knowledge base was administered and the re sponses analysed to isolate 50 factors that may impact the farms' output. An Experimental Station that had been set up at Quzhou in 2007 to estimate the potential yields then developed recommendations to improve the different factors affecting performance. The STBs then carried out single factor experiments, where

two treatments of land were tried side by side, one the existing practice and the other following a recommended change of only one of the factors identified to assess the separate the benefit of controlling each factor.

Farmer engagement The STB staff provided on-site assistance in recom-

mended practice, like sowing date, timing or rate of fertiliser use, and factors that were found to increase yield were tested on more farmers' plots. The record of benefits that came even to poor plots of land helped convince reluctant farmers.

Other farmers who came forward to participate more closely and also contributed to help adapt recommended practices to local conditions were denoted as "leading farmers", and they carried out trials where the top 10 recommended practices

were followed simultaneously. The Experimental Station then made changes in recommendations, based on the results of the farmers' experience.

"The single- and multifactor experiments served as live exhibits," the Nature Communications paper says. "Field days", where practices and benefits were discussed, were held through the growing season and workshops were conducted during the winter months to consolidate learning outcomes. Eye-catching posters presented sciencebased technology and the community was engaged with "yield contests" and production-oriented events, along with cultural and social activity to bring the STB staff and farmers together.

Briefing sessions were held before each crop management stage, with reminder messages sent by cell phone. While STB staff was available for on-site advice, the farmers elected leaders who coordinated field tasks and took decisions in consultation with STB staff. Uniform practices helped implement "deep tillage" and coordinate irrigation schedules.

The STB also devised fertiliser formulae custommade for each plot grouping and got manufacturers to create the necessary blends. Government officials were drawn in to increase support and services and practices like deep tillage were subsidised. Two full-time agricultural assistants were even assigned to each county to help implement the CAU recommen-

In 2012, there was a review of performance and also a follow-up survey where questionnaires were completed in three groups of farms - in villages where farmers had access to STB, in neighbouring farms and in a control group of farms that were far removed. The neighbouring and control farms had similar cropping patterns as the first group, but they received no direct or on-site inputs from the STB. The results (see Tables 1 and 2) clearly show that the STB farmers did better than the other two groups and had a better understanding of key agronomic factors and higher adoption of recommended practices.

We can see that the STB has created a positive increase in productivity and awareness. Even if we consider that the increase in the control group represents a trend, the record unmistakably points to the effectiveness and the influence outside selected villages, of the STB.

chases from the famers on behalf of the paper mills by offering a remunerative price, Prakasam district Development Forum president Ch. Ranga Rao said.

But they now rue their fate with the paper mills allegedly not honouring the agreement reached at the behest of the State government in January this year.

The marketing system under the aegis of the AMCs worked well, and the acreage under social forestry plantations went up to two lakh acres before falling to 1.5 lakh acres in the last three years with the paper mills bypassing the AMCs and making purchases through their agents, explained Rythu Sangham district secretary D. Gopinath.

Threatening to call it quits, they warned that the country would be forced to import the costly wood pulp spending valuable foreign exchange or fell trees in the forest adversely affecting the environment.

Ahead of the meeting convened by the district administration to break the deadlock on Saturday, representatives of the farmers' organisations insisted that the government put in place the old system wherein the farmers sold to the paper mills only through the Agriculture Market Committee (AMC).

The AMCs should be provided with a revolving fund to make pur-

"Already, farmers have uprooted the plantations in over 20,000 acres.

More farmers will follow suit if the government remains indifferent to the plight of the peasants," cautions Acharya N.G. Ranga Kisan Samstha general secretary Ch. Seshaiah.

This would mean import of the costly wood pulp from abroad by spending the precious foreign exchange, or felling trees in the forests

affecting the environment.

The paper mills, through their brokers, looted the farmers by paying Rs. 700 to Rs. 800 less per quintal than the agreed price in the case of Subabul and Rs. 2,000 less in the case of eucalyptus, complained Subabul Rythu Sangham secretary K. Veera Reddy.

This came at a time when the pulp wood imported from various countries ranged from Rs. 33 to Rs. 60 per kg, excluding import duties and inland freight costs, said Prakasam district Rythu Sangham president M. Srinivasa Rao. The government should insist on payment of at least Rs. 4,400 per tonne for Subabul and Rs. 4,600 per tonne for eucalyptus by the paper mills.

The government should ensure that the purchases were made only by AMC-authorised stock points, added Congress' farmers' wing district president V. Rajagopal Reddy.

If cleared by the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee, a regulator that reports to the Ministry of Environment and Forests it will be the first time a herbicide tolerant crop would be cleared for commercial use in India.

Activists objections In 2002, India's biotech regulators had refused to clear a herbicide tolerant plant developed by Bayer Crop Science. Activist

organisations from Greenpeace to the Alliance for Sustainable and Holistic Agriculture have protested over decades that using herbicide tolerant genes in plants locks farmers into using select brands of agrochemicals.

Dr Pental, however, said such an argument was bizarre. "Germany uses four times more herbicide than India…There is no agriculture without herbicide in Western countries - even in countries that swear by organic farming," he told The Hindu.

E n a b l e s hybridisation Dr Pental, a former vice chancellor of Delhi University, perfected a system over two decades that allows seed companies to more easily develop hybrid mustard varieties. This is done using a system already perfected in the 1990s and employed in Canada to make hybrid versions of rapeseed, he said. Two genes - that

weren't patented in India called barnase and barstar are used to make mustard varieties more amenable to becoming hybrids. Crossing Indian and East European varieties of mustard improves their yield.

"We've perfected this system…and I've only applied for an Indian patent," said Dr Pental.

With these Indian seed companies can take wild mustard varieties, those that have generally been hard to make into hybrids, and tweak them to develop new kinds of mustard that could be made to yield more oil, or more seeds.

The third gene, called the bar gene, was necessary because when seeds varieties are crossed to make hybrids, only a fixed proportion of the next generation of seeds carry all the desirable genes.

Spraying these seeds with the herbicide Basta would ensure only the right kind of seed remained.

Feud over Bt cotton licensing gives birth to industry body

Lessons But apart from the benefits to the output of the farms is the value of the experience in communicating with and including farmers in the application of scientific methods in the practice of farming. While the rest of the world, in its race to raise food production, has created better genetic strains and less invasive, but effective methods of farming, it is the actual transfer of knowhow to the farmer that would multiply the value of ad_vances. The CAU experience is a model for many administrations to emulate and attain sizeable gains even before newer things are discovered in laboratories.

Farmers favour sale of wood pulp to paper mills through AMCs Farmers in the droughtprone Prakasam district took to social forestry plantations in a big way with the authorities promoting them as an alternative to tobacco.

Former vice chancellor of Delhi University and geneticist Deepak Kumar Pental, who spearheaded the effort to develop transgenic mustard called DMH-11 that contains three genes sourced from soil bacterium, confirmed to The Hindu that one of the DMH-11 genes, called the bar gene, made the plant resistant to a herbicide (or weed killer) brand-named Basta, a product sold by multinational company Bayer Cropscience.

Several multinational seed companies in India have grouped to form a new seed association, which marks a split among seed companies engaged in the research and sale of genetically modified seeds in India.

Though the reasons for the split were never made explicit - even at a press conference convened on Friday to announce the newly-registered Federation of Seed Industry of India (FSII) - they stem from differences among seed companies that have come to boil over the past year, on still-evolving government rules on how contracts, royalties and intellectual property agreements ought to be drawn between seed companies that held licenses over certain technology and those who were recipients.

The dispute majorly deals with Bt cotton, the only transgenic crop commercially permitted in India.

Since 2002, when Bt cotton became legal, it has benefited 75 lakh farmers and buoyed the cotton industry from Rs. 450 crore in 2002 to Rs. 4,000 crore in 2015, according to independent estimates. This has been amidst reports on pests which Bt cotton technology targeted - becoming resistant, and a near-dominance of Bt cotton-tech supplied

by Monsanto Mahyco Biotech Ltd. (MMBL), even though at least eight other alternative Bt technologies have been developed by other Indian partnerships.

The FSII includes multinational companies such as Monsanto India, Bayer Crop Science, DuPont Pioneer, Dow Agrosciences and Syngenta, and Indian companies such as Mahyco

and Namdhari seeds, which are involved in developing hybrid seeds for rice, wheat, jowar, bajra, cotton, maize and several vegetables.

Part of another body once Many of these companies, including Monsanto India, were once part of the National Seed Association of India (NSAI), another industry group.

Differences emerged after NSAI earlier this year said Monsanto and its technology partner Mahyco ought to be compensating farmers for losses that farmers registered in Punjab due to damage to Bt cotton.

Moreover, NSAI, led by Prabhakar Rao, Managing Director of the Hyderabadbased Nuziveedu seeds and once the most important licensee of the MahycoMonsanto combine, has supported a controversial order - passed in May by the agriculture ministry but later withdrawn - that said seed technology companies were bound to license out their know-how to whoever requested it, for a fee that didn't exceed Rs. 25 lakh.

Reduction of tech fees Moreover, NSAI has said, companies were bound to reduce their tech fees every year and couldn't charge seed companies if they didn't meet certain performance parameters. Crucially, NSAI holds that legally genetically-modified seed varieties aren't patentable in India and so, by extension, MMBL couldn't enforce a patent on its Bt cotton technology.

The 49 seed companies, who have licensed Bollgard

technologies from MMBL, now provide farmers with 95% of the cotton in India.

Monsanto is separately fighting court battles with Nuziveedu Seeds, a former licensee, on royalty payments.

FSII, and that includes Monsanto, while proffering comments sought by the agriculture ministry for fresh technology-licensing guidelines, holds that the Indian Patent Act makes recombinant DNA and protein sequences - the essence of MMBL's technology - patentable, and therefore valid intellectual property.

"If the real time implementation of IP acts is not in harmony with industrial policy…it will lead to discouragement of research," the organisation told the agriculture ministry.

Monsanto and Mahyco didn't refer to Nuziveedu Seeds or their differing positions on seed technology laws in India when announcing the creation of FSII but averred that a new body was necessary so that "like-minded seed companies who are committed to the seed business, IP creation, IP protection" had a platform. "A market economy should be prevalent," said Raju Barwale, Managing Director, Mahyco, "and that should be done through a transparent policy."

Kalyan Goswami, Executive Director, NSAI, said he couldn't fathom why a new federation was needed.

"There's already an Association of Biotech-Led Enterprises which has all these companies…we are confident that we've got the law right. Monopolies can't be permitted in Indian agriculture," he told The Hindu.

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DIBRUGARH, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15

PAGE 12

2nd Thansen Wangchadong Memorial Football Tournament 2016, Tirap TODAY' MATCH

Striker FC & Kingfisher FC win

An action moment of the match.Dr. Chanwang Mongchan

ET Correspondent Khonsa, Sept14: Striker FC and Kingfisher FC registered victory in the respective matches of the 2nd Thansen Wangchandong memorial Football tournament 2016 organized

by W.Lowangdong and

family in collaboration with Tirap district administration at Nehru Stadium in Khonsa here today.

In the first match, Striker FC edge past Luthong 3-2. Luthong opened the account in the 4th minute through

Khuntang Sonyang.

Khuntang collected the ball from the right flank and found the back of the net. Changhang Wangsa equalized the goal for Striker FC in the 17th minute. Wangrum Hosai scored the second goal for Striker in the 23rd minute with a firm strike from the midfield.

Luthong scored their second goal in the 49th minute through Benwang Lowang.

Benwang received a pass from the left flank and found the back of the net. Jutyang Hosai scored the final goal for Striker in the 69th minute.

Jutwang Hosai of Striker FC booked with yellow card in the 47th minute while Luthong player Khangwang Lowang received yellow card for unruly behavior in the

fisher came strongly and scored their fourth goal through Winlat Tangjang in the 53rd minute.

Jopha Wangjan scored the fifth salvo for his team in the 68th minute.

The final goal was scored by W angjun Wangsam in the 75th minute.

Dated : 15-09-2016 1ST MATCH TIME : 01:00 PM

Lamsa FC scored their lone goal through Phodi Hallang in the 78th minute.

Tonwang Moidam and Mulnang Khutsia of Lamsa FC booked with yellow card in the 12:30 and 50th minute for unruly behavior in the field.

LAHO FC V/S

LAPNAN 2ND MATCH TIME : 03:OO PM

LAPTANG V/S

HAWK - 16

TOMMOROWS MATCH Date: 1-9-2016NG DC of Tirap Ravi Jha (R) along with SP Tirap JK Meena (L) at the stadium. Dr. Chanwang Mongchan

1ST MATCH TIME : 01:00 PM

79th minute.

In another match, Kingfisher FC trashed Lamsa FC 6-1.

Winglat Tangjang opened the floodgates for Kingfisher FC in the 9th minute with a spot kick. Soamlin Mema scored the second goal in the 27th

minute. Soamlin received a pass from he left flank and found the back of the net. Sanja Khetey with his lone effort scored the third goal in the 33rd minute by striking from the midfield.

In the Second half, King-

PANIDURIA V/S ZARO FC 2ND MATCH TIME : 03:OO PM

DEOMALI V/S THINSA FC

Kingfisher FC sealed their victory in the second thrilling match at Khonsa.Dr. Chanwang Mongchan

Tafragam FC Lifted IX T Chai Memorial Football Running Trophy Tezu, Sept 14: Tafragam FC lifted the IX T Chai Memorial Football Running Trophy in a one sided final match here today amid jam packed spectators by thrashing out Mishmi Rifle SC by 3 – 0 goals. The winner team received a trophy and cash prize of Rs 50,000/ however runner team walked with trophy with a cash award of Rs 25000/.

Highest scorer of Tezu Bazaar FC Sokhiyam Korah, Best Goalkeeper Ageso Gam Tafragam FC and Best Player Susel Tayang Tafragam FC respectively were awarded cash prize of Rs 5000/ each. Tezu Bazaar FC was adjudged discipline team with cash prize of Rs 10,000/.

Gracing the occasion as Chief Guest Muchu Mithi MLA Roing advised the player to opt Football as career. “The government has given due preference in job quota for

Tafragam FC lifted the IX T Chai Memorial Football Running Trophy sportsperson. 10% sports quota in Police and 5 % in other general department”, he says.

Laisum Simai Nampong MLA as a special guest termed the football as most popular sports which has

tremendous future if choose as career. He also extended deepest gratitude to the organizing committee for creating platform to hunt talent. Simai also realized the pioneer task of late T Chai who contributed ad-

Santner, Craig, Sodhi bowl lengthy spell at nets

New Zealand team plays football during the team practice at the Ferozeshsh Kotla Stadium in New Delhi on Wednesday.

New Delhi, Sept 14: New Zealand team management knows what lies ahead for them during the next six weeks in India and it was no wonder that spin troika of leg-spinner Ish Sodhi, off-spinner Mark Craig and left-arm spinner Mitchell Santner bowled a lot during their two hour net session at the Kotla in New Delhi on Wednesday.

With New Zealand captain Kane Williamson admitting that it will be a tough challenge to play Indian spinners on pitches that is unlikely to be proverbial belters, the Kiwi batsmen spent a lot of time in batting against their own spinners as well as the net bowlers.

In fact among the net bowlers, there were more spinners in action at the two dedicated nets

for the slow bowlers.

Santner, however, started bowling from the second hour of the nets as Sodhi and Craig were bowling in the spinners' nets.

Craig bowling at nets with brand new 'SG Test' ball was an indication that he is in the scheme of things as far as opening the bowling is concerned if the pitches in question start offering turn.

Sodhi was like a workhorse, who bowled for the maximum time among the three spinners.

When Santer came into action in the second hour, he was handed over an old ball which looked pretty scuffed up as he did his routines.

The focus on spinners was evident when skipper Williamson after completion of his batting, started bowling off-breaks.

The New Zealand skipper has 29 wickets from his 52 Test appearances and it will not be surprising if one finds him bowling his tweakers on rank turners.

Pacers Tim Southee and Trent Boult also hit the straps pretty soon while left-arm fast bowler Neil Wagner was seen bowling with an old ball. The accent was certainly on the reverse swing considering the pitch at Green Park will be an abrasive nature.

equate land to create Tezu Township and appeal the youth to follow his suit.

Meanwhile, Mohesh Chai local MLA while appreciating the entire team in entertaining the spectators with their best skill and bet-

ter sportsmanship spirit.

“We are delighted to host this tournament to give better platform to the budding players and to trace out the hidden sports talent among the young generation”, he said.

Overall 21 teams from Anjaw, Lower Dibang Valley, Namsai and Lohit participated in the 15 days knocked out match which was organized by Chai family under the chief Patron of MLA in association with the District Administration & Sports and Youths Affairs Lohit district.

Earlier the finale was kicked off in the tune of dance from Jumping Jack Tezu and fabulously performed solo modern dance.

Isaac Pertin SP Lohit, Nakul Chai former Minister, HoDs and government staffs participated to enjoy the final match.

Goel congratulates Jhajharia on winning gold at Rio "This is the fourth medal for India in Rio Paralympics, which includes two gold, one silver and one bronze".

Rio Paralympian Devendra Jhajharia.

New Delhi, September 14: Sports Minister Vijay Goel on Wednesday congratulated Devendra Jhajharia on his outstanding feat of winning the Gold medal in men's javelin throw F46 event at the ongoing Rio Paralympics.

In a message Mr. Goel said bettering his own world record to win gold in the Games shows exemplary dedication and determination of Devendra Jhajharia and his win will inspire all especially the young generation of the country.

Jhajharia became the first Indian to clinch two gold medals

at the Paralympics after he broke his own world record to clinch the top honours at the Rio Games.

Devendra, who won his previous gold in the 2004 Athens Games, bettered his own world record to finish on top in the men's F46 event.

Devendra, whose previous best was 62.15 metres (achieved in the 2004 Games), improved the mark with an attempt of 63.97 metres at the Olympic Stadium (Engenhao).

This is the fourth medal for India in Rio Paralympics, which includes two gold, one silver and one bronze. (PTI)

Mitchell Johnson. A file photo

Johnson backs Starc to be more menacing Melbourne, Sept.14 :Ahead of Australia's upcoming tour to South Africa, former fast bowler Mitchell Johnson has warned the opposition batsmen that pace spearhead Mitchell Starc will turn out to be a more menacing force after his record-breaking performance in an otherwise disappointing Test series against Sri Lanka.

The 26-year-old was one of the few Australian players who managed to produce a brilliant performance in his side's 3-0 Test series whitewash in Sri Lanka, topping the wicket list with 24 at a staggering average of 16.

Starc endured a injuryplagued season, having suffered a stress fracture in his foot during the inaugural day-night Test against New Zealand in Adelaide last November before missing Australia's tour of New Zealand ahead of the World Twenty20 in India in March.

The pace spearhead, however, returned to cricket with a bang, dominating the ODI tri-series in the Caribbean and featuring in every match of Australia's Qantas Tour of Sri Lanka,

including setting a new world record for the fastest bowler to bag 100 wickets.

Reflecting on Starc's impressive return, Johnson said the former had shown that he was really committed to working hard, referring to his terrific performance in testing Lankan conditions.

"But it was really exciting to see Mitchy Starc perform well. I thought he was close when we went over to England for that (2015) Ashes series, and he wasn't quite there," Johnson was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au. "But he's shown after his injury he's really committed to working really hard. I've kept in touch with him and he was really positive going into that series. To be the leading wickettaker in Sri Lanka in those conditions was really positive and a good step forward."

"He's still pretty fresh in Test cricket and he's only going to get better. He's going to keep breaking records I think as well.

It's really exciting," said Johnson, whose decision to call time on his career came soon after similar

moves by fellow Australians Michael Clarke, Brad Haddin, Chris Rogers and Ryan Harris last year.

While speaking in Perth to mark 50 days until the start of the Commonwealth Bank Test series against South Africa at the WACA Ground, Johnson admitted that he was expecting Starc to dominate the three-Test series in Australia as well when it gets underway on November 3.

"He can dominate again.

On wickets that will provide bounce - with his height, it's going to be very difficult (to face him). He bowls a fuller ball, he definitely gets the ball up there, and especially on a wicket like the WACA where you can get good bounce, it's really vital to be up there. He'll swing the ball when he pitches the ball up. That yorker he's got is very dangerous, and he's always working to improve his game," he added.

Australia will play a fivematch ODI series against South Africa from September 30 in Centurion before heading home for the Test series.

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