HIV/AIDS situation in North-East India

The HIV/AIDS epidemic in north-eastern states is becoming heterosexual in nature.It is an ominous sign for India's AIDS control programme.Experts from NACO have evidences of intravenous drug-users in the north-eastern states infecting their partners with HIV by having unprotected sex.Nagaland has already reported such a trend.

India is home to nearly two lakhs IDUs.of these over 50,800 people are from Nagaland,Manipur,Mizoram and Meghalaya.Over 20% of them are HIV+ solely due to sharing of contaminated needles.The situation is really threatening as now IDUs are indulging in high risk behaviour.Manipur may soon follow.NACO experts said another worry was the large number of IDUs living in non-classical states like Orissa,West-bengal and Punjab.The MSM population in India had started to swell.

At present thatpopulation is estimated to be 2.5 million.They indulge in very high -risk behaviour.Under India's $ 2.5 billion NACP-III NACO will try to work with this community.NACO will increase the number of interventions meant for the MSM community from 30 at present to 232 in the next five years.Studies have found HIV infection rates as high as 16% in MSMs in India.Data in Asia show that without interventions MSM will become one ofthe main sources of new HIV infections in the region.

IUDS will officially be given bupernorphin and syringes from the government.While clean syringes will help reduce the risk of addicts getting infected with HIV through sharing needles,bupernorphin will help them get over hard substances like heroin and cocaine.First addicts will be asked to exchange their syringes with safe needles.They will then be put under the 6-9 month long OST programme.This strategy has worked very well for China,US,Holland,Germany and Australia.

Cong for seat adjustments in States

Spl Correspondent NEW DELHI, Jan 29 – In a move that may have a significant bearing, the Congress party has formally ruled out alliance at the national level, limiting poll pacts to adjustments at the State level in the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls. “We do not have an alliance at the national level. We have alliance partners and seat adjustments at the State level,” All India Congress Committee general secretary Janardan Dwivedi said.He was briefing newsmen after the meeting of the Congress Working Committee here this afternoon.“An alliance is basically a game of numbers. It depends on who gets how many seats. This will be clear only after the elections,” Dwivedi said. The Congress leader said that seat sharing will differ from State to State. “The State leadership of Congress will keep in view the local situation and the State-level party and take a decision with the support of the AICC,” he added. “The Congress will seek votes on its own, except where it is in an alliance”. In those States, where the party has entered into an alliance, it would seek the votes for its alliance partners also, Dwivedi saidThe decision of the CWC, arrived at after a two-hour-long sitting at 10 Jan Path, is significant in the context of Assam as well, where a section within the party has been advocating an alliance with Asom United Democratic Front (AUDF). Though Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi’s camp ensured an overwhelming opposition to a pact with AUDF, describing it as ‘communal’, today’s decision came as a shot in the arms for his baiters in the party.One of the reasons behind the decision of the CWC could be to avoid seat-sharing pressures from its allies. UPA allies like the Nationalist Congress Party, Lok Janshakti Party and the Samajwadi Party have been exerting pressure on the Congress Party for seats outside the States of their main influence.“Of course, there is UPA. But the UPA does not fight elections. It is the political parties in UPA which contest elections,” he said replying to questions on the future of UPA. source: assam tribune

AGP, BJP fail to break Guwahati impasse

Spl Correspondent NEW DELHI, Jan 29 – The latest round of alliance negotiations between AGP and BJP failed to break the deadlock over sharing Guwahati Lok Sabha seat. The two sides are again slated to meet in the first week of February. Despite the tough bargaining, both the parties sought to convey that the seat sharing arrangement was on track and they would sort out the differences at the next round of talks. “There will be a solution and the seat adjustment will take place,” asserted AGP president Chandra Mohan Patowary after the talks. The negotiations scheduled to take place last evening had to be postponed at the last minute because the AGP president’s flight got delayed. The two sides formally met here this morning at BJP national president, Rajnath Singh’s house. Patowary, Padma Hazarika, Phani Bhusan Choudhury, Kumar Deepak Das and Biren Baishya represented AGP among others. The BJP team was small comprising Singh, Sushma Swaraj and Sudhansu Mittal, who used to be a close aide of Pramod Mahajan.Sources said that both sides remained adamant on Guwahati seat and the discussions today mainly centred on it. The BJP has stepped up pressure on AGP to relent. Sushma Swaraj, in particular was very keen that the BJP fight from Guwahati seat and she has reportedly suggested that Bijoya Chakraborty stood a better chance of wresting it. Swaraj, sources said, met couple of AGP leaders separately to resolve the impasse.Trying to drive a hard bargain, AGP leaders told BJP that Guwahati seat was a prestigious seat for them, as their headquarter was in the city. Besides, it was pointed out, that they were in an advantageous position to win the seat, as AGP held four Assembly segments under the Parliamentary constituency.The meeting on Thursday ended on the note that the two sides meet again in the first week of February. Patowary and BJP national president would meet on January 30-31, when Singh would be in Guwahati, en-route to Arunachal Pradesh. The BJP national president keen on announcing the alliance at Guwahati, but it may not happen, as AGP insisted on hold another round of talk. The negotiations, so far is struck over the Guwahati seat, even as the two parties have managed to negotiate rest of the 13 seats. Meanwhile, talking to reporters, Patowary said that AGP and BJP were unlikely to fight the forthcoming polls on a common agenda. “We are not part of the NDA and our pact is limited to only seat sharing arrangement,” he said.However, said the AGP president, “ We have requested the BJP leadership to include some of the common points in their agenda, as well.”The ‘common points’ included sealing of the Indo-Bangladesh border, declaration of the flood and erosion problem as a national problem and negotiated peace settlement with all insurgent outfits, disclosed the AGP president.Meanwhile, the BJP is making some changes in its organisational set up in Assam, ahead of the Parliament polls. Sources indicated that S.S. Ahluwalia, Rajya Sabha MP and Sudhansu Mittal might be appointed as in-charge for the State.The case of Mittal, a businessman by profession, is curious because of his keen interest in Assam politics. Considered a moneybag in the party, he was a very close associate of late Pramod Mahajan and came in contact with Assam politics, when Mahajan was in-charge for the State. The State BJP leaders, who eye him with suspicion, have resented his growing closeness with AGP leadership. source: assam tribune

Bangla to crack down on terror

DHAKA, Jan 29 – Bangladesh’s new government is proposing a South Asian anti-terrorist task force to tackle cross-border movements of militants. The proposal for such a force was floated in the election manifesto of the ruling Awami League party of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajed and envisages setting up a cooperative mechanism with police forces and judiciaries of neighbouring countries to “track down militants and bring them to justice”. Hasina outlined this proposal while speaking in the Parliament, where she said her new government has issued orders to uproot militancy in the country while an initiative was under way to pursue the formation of a South Asian Anti-Terrorist Task Force. “I have already directed the ministries concerned to deracinate militancy and asked all intelligence agencies to activate themselves,” Hasina said. “I have also asked concerned authorities to find out their (terrorists’) patrons and financers and source of their weapons,” she said. The premier’s remarks assume significance as a number of Indian outlawed north-eastern insurgent groups are reported to have established safe havens in Bangladesh. New Delhi has been asking Dhaka to extradite some of the top leaders of the banned ULFA. Hasina said she has also asked madrassas to keep their institutions free from extremism, while warning of tough actions against banks and other institutions found involved in financing terror. “We will have multifaceted sincere efforts to control militancy,” the Prime Minister said.Foreign Minister Dipu Moni earlier said terrorism would be the priority agenda of their new government, installed with three-fourths majority in the December 29 general elections, while it would play a pioneering role for effective regional cooperation to fight militancy in South Asia. “Terrorism turned out to be a matter of worldwide concern (but) we will take effective steps in consultation with our neighbouring countries against it,” she told reporters on the first day in office earlier this month. Awami League proposed the formation of the regional taskforce to fight terrorism and militancy while Hasina in her post-election press conference reiterated it saying it could end the mutual blame game on the issue of terrorism “between the countries in our region”. – PTI

Asom Ratna conferred on Dr Bhupen Hazarika

Staff Reporter GUWAHATI, Jan 29 – The State Government today conferred the first Asom Ratna award on legendary musician Dr Bhupen Hazarika. Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi presented the award to Dr Hazarika in a glittering and well-attended function at the Pragjyoti ITA Centre for Performing Arts, Machkhowa here this evening. The award carries with it a memento, a plaque, a citation and a draft of Rs three lakh. Chief Minister also presented a gramophone to Dr Hazarika.Accepting the award, Dr Hazarika said that it was a great honour for him, particularly because the laurel came to him while he is still alive. He also reminisced the accident he met with while rendering his immortal song “Bistirna Parore…” at a city function two years back. With the blessings of the people and the unstinted support from the State Government he could overcome the crisis even though the treatment is still on. The second part of his speech was presented through a video projection, which started with ever inspiring “Akasi Ganga….” He said that though he was not in a position to fathom the contribution he made to the people, the love and affection rained on him by the people had kept him over obliged. He also remembered the contributions made by Sahityarathi Lakhminath Bezbaruah, Jyotiprasad Agarwala and Bishnuprasad Rabha, in shaping his outlook and in bringing out the artiste in him. The State should direct its march towards light and overcome the darkness that has been imposed on it by the acts of violence. For, violence is a major hurdle on the journey towards prosperity, he said switching over to immortal “Manuhe Manuhor babe….”He then asserted that the dream he dreamt in 1948 in “Jilikabo Luitore Par…” has now come true enabling him in 2009 to sing “Jilikiche luitore Par….” . Now is the time for celebration, for, India, world have ushered into a new era of glory. The election of Barrack Hussain Obama as the President of USA has scripted the end of discrimination.Dr Hazarika lauded the efforts of the State Government to present computers to each of those high school final examinees placed in first division as a progressive and described the award and love bestowed on him as “ashirbad”.He concluded his video recorded speech with the immortal composition of Paul Robson – “we are in the same boat brother.”Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi described Dr Hazarika as the most deserving son of humanity and said that he deserves a ratna award on behalf of humanity. He also announced the plan of the State Government to institute an annual award in the name of Dr Hazarika. Describing Dr Hazarika as a philanthropist, Gogoi said that the maestro has the quality of the great men like Abraham Lincoln, Nelson Mandela and Martin Luther King junior, to whom Dr Hazarika himself referred to in his speech. The ideals espoused by Dr Hazarika should be the ideals of the people of the State. “We must broaden our hearts or else we would remain isolated” Gogoi said. Dr Hazarika inspires the people with his songs and deeds and the people of the State should draw inspiration from him to turn the State into a beautiful, progressive one. He made an appeal to the artiste community for the development of the society. The State Government is made proud by Dr Hazarika by accepting the award, said the Chief Minister.The function was also addressed by Cultural Affairs Minister Bharat Chandra Narah and Commissioner in charge of the Cultural Affairs Department Rabendra Kumar Das. A large number of people including prominent writers and artistes attended the fuction. source: assam tribune

EC notice sends government officials into tizzy

From our Correspondent JORHAT, Jan 28: The government officials posted here have reportedly been in a tizzy over the Election Commission notice regarding transfer before the Parliamentary elections which are round the corner. According to sources, several officials have gone on an overdrive to prevent their transfers. These officials include those who are permanent residents of the district and others who have been working here for more than three years. It may be mentioned here that the Election Commission notice requires the transfer of officials from their home districts and those who have completed more than three years of service in a district. The State Election Commission has already sought a list of all officials, who are either permanent residents of the district or who have worked here for more than three years, from the Jorhat district administration.Several officials are reportedly trying to cancel their imminent transfers from the district by “mobilizing their resources.” There are still others who are trying to get districts of their choice. The sources alleged that a few officials are citing their earlier home addresses to evade transfer from the district. Significantly, a number of officials have set up their permanent residences here. source: sentinel assam

CBI arrests one more top NBCC official

Correspondent
GUWAHATI, Jan 27 – Close on the heels of arrest of National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC) deputy general manager BC Dhiman from the city on Saturday, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) today arrested another top official of NBCC from Shillong. Additional general manager of NBCC PK Mittal, who is posted at Shillong, surrendered at the CBI office (in Shillong) this morning and was immediately taken into custody.

Dhiman, during CBI interrogation, had contended that he had offered a bribe of Rs five lakh to the CBI officer at the behest of Mittal.

A transit remand has been sought and Mittal will be brought to Guwahati as soon as possible,” CBI sources divulged.

The CBI was on the lookout for Mittal since Dhiman’s arrest after the latter had tried to bribe an investigating officer of the CBI, probing anomalies in road construction undertaken by the NBCC in Guwahati city.

Mittal, during questioning, maintained that he had been away on a site visit to an interior location in Meghalaya and had reported at the CBI office right after arrival in town when he came to know that the CBI was searching for him.

The Shillong residence of Mittal was raided today, though no substantial evidence was found. “We have unearthed four bank accounts of Mittal in New Delhi and will be seeking bank statements,” a senior official of the CBI said.

He added that Dhiman and Mittal, among the top bosses of the NBCC, have been booked under anti-corruption charges and the reported anomalies in the construction work would be dealt separately.

Dhiman was the project manager between 2002-05, while Mittal was the unit head at that time.

The CBI was probing the anomalies in road construction works by NBCC in Guwahati between 2002-08. The final report of the probe would be submitted very soon, which is expected to open a Pandora’s box. source: assam tribune

ARC moots unique I-card system to thwart influx

Spl Correspondent NEW DELHI, Jan 27 – Yet another official agency has raised alarm over the threat posed by illegal influx, with Administrative Reform Commission (ARC), in its latest report, warning that illegal immigration into the country was posing a serious threat to national security, strongly recommending a unique identity card for citizens. “One way of dealing with the issue of illegal immigration, is by means of a citizen’s identity number or card,” the second ARC report on promoting e-governance said.The ARC’s observation is significant because it comes from a Commission headed by none other AICC general secretary, in-charge for Assam, M Veerappa Moily. The 186-page report is also a confirmation that a large number of illegal Bangladeshi migrants continue to cross over to India. The report released on Saturday also referred to the pilot project for a ‘Multi-purpose National Identity Card (MNIC)’ in select areas of 13 districts in 12 States and one Union Territory. Highly sensitive Karimganj district in Assam and West Tripura district is among the areas where the pilot project is under implementation.“Thus this project has focused on select border areas of the country with illegal immigration in mind,” the report said.“One aim of the project is “to act as a deterrent for future illegal immigration”, the ARC report further added.It said the MNIC project was completed in March last and over 12 lakh identity cards have been issued to persons above 18 years. The MNIC proposed to create a credible individual identification system, allow speedy and efficient transactions between the individual and the service provider – both government and non-government, create a user-friendly interface between the citizens and the government and facilitate improvement in the services to the peopleThe ARC, on the other hand, has suggested creation of a separate unique identity card system would only be useful if it was exhaustive, accurate and tamper-proof. “To start the process immediately, it may be desirable to give unique IDs prospectively for all future births that take place in the country. As the system stabilises, this could then be extended to all citizens in a phased manner,” the report addedThe ‘unique identity’ was expected to reduce significantly identity-related fraud and allow for better targeting of government schemes.As reported earlier, Government of India has already cleared a proposal to create a new body to issue all Indian citizens, UID- based smart cards with their personal details embedded in them. Even infants will have tag numbers, and will get smart cards in due course.The permanent identifiers will be place of birth, date of birth and name of parents. The headquarters for the mammoth project will be in Delhi with offices in all States and Union Territories.An empowered group of ministers, headed by External affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee approved the setting up of the authority in November last year. Last week, Cabinet Secretary KM Chandrasekhar reportedly asked the Planning Commission to expedite the process of setting up the national UID authority through a gazette notification in the light of India’s new security concerns.The vote-on-account next month is likely to have a mention of the proposed expenditure on this project, sources said.The ARC report said the need for such a card has been considered necessary “not only for security reasons, but also for delivery of services to citizens and taking the development programmes to the target population”.In the absence of a database, identification of target population is done every time a new scheme is implemented. “Even where database do exist, its reliability remains doubtful as there is no system of continuous corroboration with the field situation and regular updates,” the report said.Meanwhile, the ARC report came at a time, when the Assam Government and the Centre are in the process of finalising the modalities for updating the National Register of Indian Citizens, a key requirement for detection and deportation of illegal migrants. The Assam Government has already submitted the draft modalities to the Centre for clearance and several rounds of negotiations have been held to finalise it before Government of India notifies it. sourcE: assam tribune

Mathur urges ultras to shun violence

Staff Reporter
GUWAHATI, Jan 27 – Assam Governor Shiv Charan Mathur, in his Republic Day address, appealed to those involved in insurgency and militancy to shun the path of violence and get involved in a negotiation process within the ambit of the Constitution. “We are committed to bring peace to Assam and shall keep our doors open for dialogue but we will not leave any stone unturned to fight anti-national forces,” he declared.

The Governor in his address at Latasil playground after hoisting the National Flag then spoke on the State’s preparedness to confront extremist violence. He mentioned that 9,000 posts of constables and 256 Sub-Inspectors in the Assam Police have been filled recently, while 45 new police stations have been notified. A new battalion, the 23rd AP (IR), has been raised and another sanctioned, he added.

With reference to the Assam Accord, Mathur, asserted that the Government was committed to its implementation “without causing any harassment to any genuine Indian citizen”. He revealed that the implementation of the NRC was going on and data entry of electoral rolls will soon be completed.

On expected lines the Governor’s address then went to dwell on a string of achievements of the State Government. A revenue surplus of Rs 2,581 crore and a fiscal surplus of Rs 554 crore in 2007-08, he said, indicated better financial consolidation. The annual plan for the current year witnessed increase of Rs 1,200 crore over the previous year that he reasoned would accelerate development.

On the crucial livelihood providing agriculture sector, Mathur alluded to the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana that seeks to rejuvenate agriculture and help achieve a growth rate of 2 per cent by the end of the 11th plan. He also stated that 25,000 ha of additional land have been brought under horticultural crops and there is a proposal to build a storage capacity of 62,000 MT to support horticultural activities.

As in the years before, floods and efforts to mitigate its effects did find mention in the Governor’s speech. He said, “While most of the schemes started for this purpose have been completed, 29 schemes under different sources are nearing completion. With the completion of these schemes, more than 35,000 ha of affected agriculture land will be protected.

Cooperatives and Panchayati Raj Institutions figured in the Governor’s speech along with the status of Self Help Groups. He pointed out that during the current year 15,867 SHGs were formed of which 5,624 were provided with subsidies and bank loans. This has increased the number of SHGs to 1.68 lakh in the Assam.

On the employment front, he stated his government’s efforts in the form of NREGA, Mukhya Mantrir Swaniyojan Achani and Kalpataru scheme. The Government has taken steps to fill up to 64,800 posts of different categories in the Government sector.

The State Government’s efforts in education found place in his speech to some extent. Sarva Siksha Abhiyan, he noted, aims at providing 10,758 additional class rooms and 2,799 girls’ toilets for elementary schools in the State. While new job-oriented courses will be introduced, infrastructure of universities and colleges is being improved, Mathur claimed.

On the area of environment and forests, the State Governor said, “Forest and wildlife are our precious heritage. The population of rhinos in the State has risen consistently to around 2,000 making this a conservation success. We are committed to protect and preserve our natural heritage.”

He informed that the Government has taken measures to improve the power scenario, which include the proposed commissioning of the 37 MW Lakwa Waste Heat Recovery Project this year. Two new thermal power plants of 250 MW capacity each are in the proposal stages, he added.

Commenting that health and welfare of women and children were among the priorities, Mathur said, “institutional delivery and immunisation programmes are our thrust areas”. Over 26,000 Accredited Social Activists (ASHA) have been mobilised towards this end. For the welfare of children, the number of Anganbadi centres in the State will be increased to 50,000.

Regarding the welfare of ST and other backward classes, he revealed that six new development councils for Ahoms, Muttucks, Morans, Koch Rajbongshis, Chutias and Adivasis are being set up, and another for the Gorkhas would follow.

Earlier at 9 am on a cold, cloud-covered day, the Governor unfurled the Tricolour in the presence of dignitaries including Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, and senior police and Army officials. He took the salute from several contingents of Assam Police, CRPF, NCC, scouts and guides. Ganesh Thapa, a deputy superintendent of the Assam Police commanded the Republic day parade. sourcE: assam tribune

Research on ethnic languages State govt to provide aid

Correspondent
DERGAON, Jan 27 – The Assam Government will accept a scheme for the research on different old languages of the State. Since the developement of all the ethnic groups and their dialects are extremely neccessary for the all-round development of the Assamese nation, the State Government has taken up various schemes. This was stated by Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi at the open session of 28th biennial session of Purbanchal Tai Sahitya Sabha at Khumtai on Monday. He also opined that Assam is famous for unity among different ethnic groups. He also released a book published in memory of Jiba Kanta Gogoi. Earlier the open session held with Dr Jogendra Nath Phukan in the chair was formally inaugurated by minister Ajanta Neog. In the meeting MP Deep Gogoi, MLA Prabin Gogoi, Forest minister of Nagaland AC Kanyak, Education minister N Kanyak, Doly Gogoi and Niva Konwar were present along with others.

It is pertinent to mention that the four-day-long programme started at Dam Chao Jiba Kanta Gogoi khetra on January 16 was ended on Monday.

Through the presidential speech Dr JN Phukan opined that no such study in Tai language was carried out in Assam so far. So he urged the government to do something in this regard.

Earlier the cultural procession competition was formally inaugurated by Dr Prabin Konwar. In the competition Tinsukia district team was adjudged as the best team. source: assam tribune

Sir Jagadish Chandra Bose remembered

: From our CorrespondentHALEM, Jan 25: Remembering the numerous contribution that Jagadish Chandra Bose made in the fields of science, his 150th birth anniversary was celebrated recently at the Ananda Chandra Agarwalla Junior College under the auspices of Bijnanbharati and in co-operation with the local celebration committee. A day-long programme was held with various competitions on the occasion. A seminar on science was opened by Lakshminarayan Sastri with illumination and also with a Borgeet by Jahnabi Bora. In his welcome and inaugural address Principal of the college Surmani Dhal spoke on the life or Bose. Dr Siba Acharjya also spoke on science that was studied since the days of Vedas and explained it with slokas. He also referred to the epics in this respect. The maiden speech was delivered by Biswanath College ex-lecturer and a renowned explorer of science Khiradhar Barua explained in details about the contributions of Bose as scientist. During his speech, Barua also said that though Mercury received Nobel Prize for wire-less but Jagadish Chandra Bose had actually invented it two years before, but never earned the name for it. He also invented electron and proved that plants and iron also have lives. The language of computer is borrowed from vedic-sum, he said. Bose was also inspired from the Mahabharata and Ramayana and also proved how Gromite is dangerous to plants. He invented the memory-metal which is now used in medical science and space, Barua concluded. Songs were presented by Timsina of Singari. ACA College Sr lecturer Arup Rajkhowa anchored and also offered the vote of thanks. The seminar was conducted by Suresh Chandra Barthakur. He also gave away the prizes. source: sentinel assam

Magh Bihu celebrated by Asomiya people at Pune

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Magh Bihu celebrated by Asomiya people at Pune

: By our Staff ReporterGUWAHATI, Jan 25: In the mid-January, Magh Bihu, the main and traditional festival of Asom is celebrated all over the State, this time with no exception with the people residing at Pune in Maharastra. The day between two months is called Sankranti, and the day between the Asomiya months of Puh and Magh is very important for the celebration of Magh Bihu. The day of Sankranti betwween the aforesaid months—Uruka bears great meaning in the Magh Bihu festivities. People prepare different food items like pitha (cake made of flour), doi (curd), chira (flat rice), apart from collecting fish, meat and other items to have it in Uruka as well as during the Bihu celebration, and people offer prayer to God.It was a time to reinstall the feeling of belongingness in a land away from home. It was the time during which the Asomiya community in Pune celebrated the Bihu in its own way. In the Uruka night, people indulged in the grand feast with all Asomiya items.On the cold evening of January 17, some 200 people assembled at Parsi Gymkhana Camp in Pune to celebrate the Bihu. The function was inaugurated by Brig RJ Sharma, president, Pune Cantonment Board, followed by lighting of the meji by Dr Kaur, a veteran fellow from Asom.The function was marked by presentation of Bihu Dance and Asomiya songs. At the end, there was a grand feast for all.The beautiful function was organized by HN Bhuyan, Utpal Sarma, Pulak Borthakur and Pranjal Saikia to celebrate the Bihu with the people of Asomiya community residing in Pune. source: sentinel assam

Our Flag, our Republic

Our Flag, our Republic

For about three decades now, the ULFA and other insurgent/terrorist outfits have taken away the flag from us — especially from our children. This has been done by the simple expedient of telling people to stay away from Republic Day and Independence Day functions. Three decades is more than one generation. Many of our children do not know what our flag looks like. Those who do, are often not sure whether the top band is saffron or green. This is a sad state of affairs for growing children — not to have a flag and a country that one can proudly call one’s own just because some groups have been trying to carve out a land of their own for 30 years. Children and their parents stay away from these functions because the guns of militants talk louder than the guns of frightened policemen. And the ULFA did not spare women and children in Dhemaji. Let us all have our own celebrations — in our schools and our homes. The militants cannot get to all homes and all schools. Let us show the world that we do have a flag and a country. And let us do this with pride. source: sentinel assam

New Pluses and Minuses

New Pluses and Minuses

The swearing in of Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States has brought in new equations for India as it has for many countries of the world, notably Pakistan. The eight-year stint of George W. Bush as US President had not gone down very well with many countries all over the world. If anything, President Bush managed to get the Islamic world strongly aligned against the US after the US reduced many parts of Afghanistan to rubble in its search for just one man whose terrorist persona, ironically enough, was the creation of the US itself, and also after the forcible occupation of Iraq and the execution of Saddam Hussein on trumped-up charges of possessing weapons of mass destruction in huge quantities. At home, in his own country, George Bush was an unmitigated disaster. He lost no time in destroying the economy that his predecessor Bill Clinton had painstakingly built up, thereby turning a healthy surplus budget into a deficit of about 10 trillion dollars. Americans all over the world were counting the days when he would step down at the end of his second term. With President Obama taking over the reins at Washington DC, we have a different equation now for very many reasons, the foremost of them being the fact that a democrat has been left with a legacy of responsibilities by a Republican that he can do very little to change, regardless of the fact that his key word has been ‘change’ right from the days of campaigning. One of these responsibilities is the lead role that the US set out to play in the global war on terrorism with the most accomplished exporter of terrorism — Pakistan — as its principal ally. And even though the US was not willing to listen to India and other countries about the total unsuitability of its choice, the attack on Mumbai of November 26 did not leave anyone in any doubt as to Pakistan’s support of terrorism. This time even the US was convinced (mainly through inputs from the CIA and the FBI), but there was not much that President Bush was willing to do. A Democrat President in the US is not likely to work any kind of instant magic, but immediately after assuming office, President Obama lost no time in telling Pakistan in unequivocal terms that unless Pakistan behaved, the US would have to think of cutting off economic aid. Apart from Pakistan’s irresponsible behaviour after 26/11, the Bush administration had learnt that the $7.5 billion economic aid that Pakistan had received from the US during the last five years for building roads, schools and health centres, had actually been diverted to assist terrorist groups. There is similar economic assistance of $7.5 billion from the US assured during the next five years. Obviously, the US does not wish to see its future dollops of aid to Pakistan used in similar fashion. This is a plus point in favour of India, and mercifully, unlike other similar occasions when India has received good news, there has been no outburst of euphoria this time. Islamabad has sought to play down President Obama’s warning about stopping economic aid by letting the US know that Pakistan is not dependent on US economic aid as long as its ties of friendship with China are intact. It has also reminded the US that its ties with China have remained strong even in times of adversity. Even this stance of Pakistan could turn out to be a plus point for India in the days to come, if the US does not capitulate with Pakistan for being braver than India.What is unlikely to be a plus point for India is that in all probability US President Obama is likely to take a stand on the Kashmir issue mainly because here is one conflict that has encouraged terrorist activity and led to the perpetuation of proxy war in India. His intervention in Kashmir will doubtless be made to look like friendly help and the task could be made easier by the appointment of Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State in place of Condoleezza Rice. This intervention is likely to work in two ways. One is to make the intervention look like a friendly gesture, and the other is to simply follow the bad US precedent of having no respect for the sovereignty of other countries. This was the kind of intervention that the US rammed through in Iraq and though this may not be easy with India, President Obama is likely to give it a good try. This is likely to turn out to be a minus point. The other minus point being commented on is that there was no mention of India as such among the countries with which President Obama is thinking of forging special relationships. There is no need to worry about this one. source: sentinel assam

DGP Srivastava inaugurates police station building

DIBRUGARH, Jan 23: Asom Director General of Police (DGP) Ghanashyam Murari Srivastav inaugurated the newly constructed building of Naharkotiya police station in Dibrugarh district during his tour to the region on January 22. Others present during the occasion included Dibrugarh Deputy Commissioner Ashutosh Agnihotri, Upper Assam DIG RL Bishnoi, Dibrugarh Superintendent of Police Anurag Agarwalla, Commanding Officer of 44 Field Regiment Colonel Jees Yamdani and Tinsukia SP Diganta Bora.Addressing the gathering, Srivastav stressed on the need to strengthen the police-public relationship and cooperation among various departments engaged in the maintenance of law and order. The DGP expressed his dissatisfaction over the lack of separate women cell and toilet in the newly constructed police station.The Naharkotiya Sports Association, Rotary Club, Nahorkotiya Marwari Yuba Mancha felicitated the DGP while officer in-charge of the Naharkotiya police station Hiranya Kumar Bora offered the vote of thanks. source: sentinel assam

American to make documentary on Barpeta Xatra

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: From our CorrespondentBARPETA, Jan 23: The Small World Television of United States of America (USA) is going to make a documentary covering the wildlife, bio-diversity, natural beauty and cultural heritage of Asom with an special emphasis on the historical and cultural tradition of Barpeta Xatra, the Venice of the East. The documentary will showcase the great creations of Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev and Sri Sri Madhabdev along with the tradition of Barpeta Xatra. Father of adventure world, noted naturalist, assistant executive producer of ‘Adventures with Purpose’, a travel show, and commentator Richard Bangs is presently in Asom in order to make the documentary prompted by the special request from the Government of Asom. Richard Bangs and his team visited Barpeta Xatra recently and recorded all the cultural sources of the xatra with technically advanced camera. They also took the image of the wooden sculptures curved in the surrounding of Barpeta Xatra’s mul griha. Richard Bangs also had a talk with Xatradhikar of Barpeta Xatra Basistha Debsarma. Richard wanted to know about the philosophy of Sankardev for wildlife and the nature. The Xatradhikar explained Sankardev’s philosophy in detail with the reference to the Kirtan Ghosa. Barpeta DC Phanidhar Kalita and Barpeta SP Debajyoti Mukharjee played a lead role in the conversation. Talking to reporters, Richard said that the documentary film, which will be made under the banner of Small World Television, will be telecast through the American television and about a billion spectators will experience it. In spite of having so many resources both natural and cultural, Asom remained unknown, unseen and undiscovered properly due to lack of publicity only. With the adequate publicity only the State can dream of development in the field. Director of the documentary Petty Conroy said that the culture and bio-diversity of Asom had really fascinated her. The people of Asom have to take the responsibility on their own to preserve the natural beauty or resources of the State, she said. Besides Richard and Conroy, photographer Ian Deviar, photo-journalist Dedrick Junk and assistant producer Douglous Newel also visited the xatra. After visiting Barpeta Xatra, they had left for Manas National Park. source: sentinel assam

Preparations in full swing for Me-Dam Me-Phi

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: From our Correspondent JORHAT, Jan 23: The Tai Ahom Sanskriti Sangrakshan Siksha Bikash Samiti (TAISSAB) will centrally observe Me-Dam Me-Phi – the Ahom religious festival in which blessings are sought from forefathers – with a two-day programme at Joya Bhavan here on January 30 and 31. A celebration committee with Surya Gogoi as president, Biju Phukan and Kushal Lahon as vice presidents, Munindra Konwar as secretary, Pranjit Baruah and Nilotpal Buragohain as assistant secretaries and Maniram Lahon as treasurer has already been formed. On January 30, after the flag hoisting at 9 am, an essay competition in memory of Rana Bikram Buragohain will be held for students from Class VIII to the higher secondary-level. An on-the-spot drawing competition in memory of Powal Baruah will be held among students of Class I to Class VII in two categories. There will be a history-based quiz in memory of Rameswar Bora for students of Class VIII to the higher secondary-level and an extempore speech contest in memory of Dilip Barua among the women. Union Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers Bijoy Krishna Handique will lay the foundation stone of the stage at Joya Bhavan on the same day. On January 31, Jorhat MLA Rana Goswami will flag off the cultural procession and later inaugurate the smriti tarpan programme at Rajamaidam. The open session at 11.30 am will be inaugurated by Jorhat Deputy Commissioner Ms LS Changsan. Asom Education Minister Gautom Bora will be the chief guest at the open session. Educationist Professor Lalit Shyam will be the distinguished guest. Dr Bijoy Neog will deliver the main speech at the session. Jorhat Zilla Parishad chairman Putul Buragohain will release a souvenir on the occasion. A cultural programme will cap the Me-Dam Me-Phi celebrations in the evening. TAISSAB president Membor Gogoi and its secretary Abani Kumar Chetia have appealed to all members of the Tai-Ahom community to extend their cooperation and suggestions to the celebration committee for the successful observance of Me-Dam Me-Phi. source: sentinel assam

Sadba introduces new courses BUSINESS REPORTER GUWAHATI, Jan 22 – Sadba Institute of Technology, a Guwahati based institute has introduced ‘O’ and ‘A

BUSINESS REPORTER
GUWAHATI, Jan 22 – Sadba Institute of Technology, a Guwahati based institute has introduced ‘O’ and ‘A’ level hardware courses for the students. Sadba is the first private institute in Guwahati to be accredited by DOEACC for conducting ‘O’ and ‘A’ level hardware courses.

The officials of the institute told this correspondent that the IT sector requires more hardware professionals and hence Sadba has introduced these courses for the students in the region. “We are providing adequate facilities so that our students can pursue their studies without any hindrance,” they claimed.

Sadba is an authorized study centre of PGCS under Gauhati University for conducting Post Graduate Diploma in Computer Application and various other management courses under the same. It is also an accredited study center under Krishna Kanta Handique State Open University to conduct BCA, BBA & BCOM. source: assam tribune

Forest officials recover arms from poachers

Forest officials recover arms from poachers
Correspondent
DERGAON, Jan 22 – Following confessions of arrested poachers, the forest team of Golaght Division recovered five handmade guns and a large cache of amunition from Kemeri Chapori on Tuesday. The team recovered the materials from the possession of poacher Nomal Doley(45), son of Munia Doley of Kemeri Chapori who was held on Monday.The team recovered 23 splinters,1 nozzle of rhino horn,gunpowder,rhino nail,dry meat of rhino along with other materials.The team also caught another hardcore poacher Bipul Kaman(40), son of Kosheswar alias Kukur Kaman of Afalagaon under Kamargaon PS on Sunday.Later the duo confessed that they were involved with a gang in the killing of a female rhino on December 25 at Afalagaon.
source: assam tribune

AGP opposes Photo I-cards sans NRC

Staff Reporter
GUWAHATI, Jan 21 – Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) today opposed any move to issue photo-identity cards to the citizens without completing the National Register of Citizens (NRC) updating process. The AGP executive committee in its meeting held at the Ambari headquarters of the party, observed that the bids to issue photo-identity cards to the citizens without completing the NRC updating process was contrary to a verdict of the Supreme Court.

It alleged that the Congress has been keeping the issue of foreign nationals alive for sake of keeping its (Congress) vote bank intact. Resenting the recent comment of Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi that there are more foreign nationals in other parts of the country compared to Assam, the AGP executive committee said in a resolution that future of Assam was not safe in the hands of such a Chief Minister who wants to belittle the State’s foreigners’ issue.

It described the failure of both the State and Central Governments to complete the NRC updating process within 2008 as per their assurances, as a deceit on the people and made an appeal to the people to register their protest against the lethargy of the Governments in this connection.

The AGP executive committee in a resolution, demanded firm steps from the Central Government to seal the Indo-Bangla border in eastern and North East part of the country in line with the steps taken to seal the western border of the country with Pakistan.

Criticising the silence of the State Government on the issue of determining the state’s borders with its neighbouring states, the meeting called for firm steps to ensure the security of the life and property of the people living in the border areas.

Describing the delay in solving the insurgency problem as a product of the lack of political will of the Tarun Gogoi led Government, the meeting , which was also attended by former Chief Minister Prafulla Kumar Mahanta and several other former Ministers, called for steps to resolve the issue through negotiations with the militant groups instead of effecting splits within these organizations.

The party demanded steps to redress the grievances of the six ethnic groups, which have been demanding ST status. It resented the local tax imposed on the petroleum products by the State Government, which has added to the burdens of the people. It also ridiculed the decision of the Congress to make development a plank in the next Lok Sabha elections.

The meeting formed four committees to look into the Lok Sabha elections preparations including one to prepare a charge sheet against the Congress Government. source: assam tribune

Scrapping of IM(DT) Act made no change

Correspondent GUWAHATI, Jan 21 – Meghalaya Governor RS Mooshahary today stated that neither the new Assam Police Act nor the scrapping of the IM (DT) Act has brought in any change in Assam as they were expected to in the respective areas. The Meghalaya Governor stressed, “it is the inherent will of the people concerned be it the politicians or the policemen that makes a difference and not just merely having a law or an Act.”“A lot of hue and cry was made about the loopholes of the old Assam Police Act. But, has things improved after the new Assam Police Act came into being? I do not see any visible change,” said the former chief of NSG and BSF while speaking during the valedictory function of the 39th Indian Police Congress here today.“In order to pave way for a congenial atmosphere, we must ensure that the perpetrators of crime must know that he would not be able to move scot-free after committing a crime and once he is caught, he would be slapped with adequate punishment,” said Mooshahary.“Unfortunately, police has not done enough to force the criminals to think about these aspects. The police have more or less failed to infuse fear in the minds of the wrongdoers,” he pointed out.Referring to the scrapping of IM (DT) Act, the Meghalaya Governor rued, “The apex court scrapped the Act in 2005, which for many was safeguarding the interest of the illegal migrants in the State. But, did the verdict result in any thing concrete so far. Not a single case of detection of any illegal migrant has taken place in the State under the Foreigners’ Act.”Mooshahary stressing for a skilled training for the police personnel said, “Training in Assam Police has been the last priority but things has to change for better.”“The onus is on the top officials to keep the men motivated and close to the common man,” he reiterated, adding that the cleansing process should begin from top level. He also hoped that the Police University, which is coming up in the country, would help in doing intensive research work for the benefit of the men in khakis. source: assam tribune

Jonbeel Mela, a mela where money has no value

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Jonbeel Mela, a mela where money has no value

JAGIROAD, Jan 19: Five and half decades after Frank McNmara changed the face of money by introducing credit cards, barter system continues to flourish in a healthy way, just an hour’s drive from Guwahati.

Driving past 50 odd billboards of credit cards and ATM cards through the crowded National Highway 37, one can reach Jagiroad in an hour’s time to see this unique event in this material world where every thing is counted with money.

"Not here. We still value goodwill and encourage the barter systems between participating tribes", said the Tiwa king Deepsing Deorajah. He is a king without a kingdom. But in the areas surrounding Jagiraod stretching up to Meghalaya and Karbi Anglong, his good will still commands unquestioned respect.

Every year during the third week of January, thousands of tribal people assemble in the annual Jonbeel Mela for this unique barter trade.

Despite mobiles, ATM cards and all kind of gizmos surrounding the whole area, thousands of tribal people assemble from all parts of the area to take part in the barter system.

Hundreds of Khasi people come down from the neighbouring Meghalaya hills with their produce to barter their goods with the subjects of the Tiwa king who is also known as Gobha Rajah.

"This is a tradition. The Khasi and Jaintia people come with ginger, turmeric, wild bee and betel nuts besides brooms. They exchange their products with dried fish, salt, vegetables and clothes with the local Tiwas", said chief executive member of the Tiwa Autonomous Council Ramakanta Deuri.

The council is a modern form of governance in the area but during the mela days it allows the traditional king to take over the proceedings.

Braving severe cold, the tribals from Khasi hills descend two days in advance and camp in the open area near Jagiroad, which the king and their subjects prepare before the mela.

The mela distinctly has two parts. One is the general mela where money definitely has a value and one can buy anything in a village weekly fair.

But the real character is in the other side of the mela, where money has no meaning. "Generally, the barter take place between the Tiwas and Khasis. The Tiwas are master weavers and their clothes are in great demand, hence these Khasi people do their annual marketing of clothes in this mela" said the Tiwa king.

Although there is no custom of marriage between the two tribes, but each consider the other as relatives and hence along with the head of the family, all move to Jonbeel Mela for that three days with extended session of feast, merry-making and various indigenous games.

The highlight of the mela is the community fishing where more than 2,000 people take part and the cock fight, which is literally an addiction amongst all the males of both the communities. This year alone, more than 400 cocks took part in the fight drawing hundreds of onlookers.

The mela because of its unique custom and tradition has now attained a status of tourist destination as many from the neighbouring towns flock in for the sheer enjoyment in a mela where money has no value. (Agencies)

Indefinite Darjeeling bandh from today

CORRESPONDENT
DOOARS, Jan 18 – An indefinite Darjeeling bandh has been called by Gorkha Janmukti Morcha (GJM) from tomorrow in protest of Malbazaar, Dooars incident today where several of its supporters were injured during a clash with groups opposed to the Gorkhaland demand.

Vehicles leaving Sikkim were stranded at Rangpo and Melli border towns. Around 150 vehicles were stopped at the check posts before they were finally allowed to leave after 5 pm.

Trouble began at Malbazaar when GJM took out a rally to press its demand that Terai and Dooars be included in the proposed Gorkhaland territory. In protest, the Adivasi Bikash Parishad put up road blockades at important points across Malbazar resulting in a clash when GJM supporters tried to cross one of these blockades at Malbazar College More.

At least 25 people including two senior police officials were injured in the clash. However, unconfirmed reports stated that over 110 people were injured, majority of whom were GJM supporters.

The police had to carry out a baton charge and fire 11 rounds of teargas shells to control the situation. “We have called the para-military force to help us maintain law and order here”, stated North Bengal IGP.

As soon as the news of the clash came, the entire Darjeeling hill region shut down in a flash strike. The bandh was total in Darjeeling, Kurseong and Kalimpong division and vehicular movement was paralyzed along NH 31 A, Sikkim’s lifeline.

Strongly condemning the assault on GJM supporters at Malbazaar, the party president Bimal Gurung announced an indefinite Darjeeling bandh. He said that the incident was a conspiracy of the local administration and West Bengal Government. He warned of an intensified movement if the culprits who were armed with bows and arrows, sticks and stones were not arrested by police within the next 48 hours.

GJM had today launched a Dooars Chalo movement to garner public support from these areas for Gorkhaland movement. A massive public meeting had been organized at Nagarkhatta in Dooars for this campaign. GJM had also started an Adivashi-Gorkha cultural festival at Gorubatan to promote friendship between the tribals and the hill people from January 14.

Adivashi Vikash Parishad had today called a bandh to derail the campaign of GJM prompting the local administration and police to slap section under section 144 CrPC in the area for maintaining law and order. source: assam tribune

Golden jubilee celebration of Makhibaha school from Jan

Golden jubilee celebration of Makhibaha school from Jan 22A CORRESPONDENT KAITHALKUCHI, Jan 18 – The golden jubilee celebration of Makhibaha Higher Secondary School, the premier and the oldest educational institution of Nalbari district, is going to be celebrated with zeal and gaiety with three-day long colourful programmes starting from January 22.The first day’s programme will begin with flag hoisting to be led by Malin Ch Sarma, president, celebration committee followed by main-gate opening, school flag hoisting, swahid tarpan, banti prajyalan and smriti tarpan, tree plantation. The cultural procession will be inaugurated by Dewijendra Kumar Goswami, Headmaster, Makhibaha Girls High School at 3.00 pm. The main stage will be inaugurated followed by opening of exhibition, banti prajyalan, cultural somaroh and cultural nite.The second day’s programmes include registration of ex-students and prize distribution ceremony. The souvenir will be opened by prominent social worker Krishna Kanta Goswami, Jyanendra Dev Tripathi, Nalbari DC will inaugurate the ex-students and teachers meet which will be conducted by Bhabani Prasad Adhikari.The guests will be Charan Deka, Dr Tarun Ch Sarma, Dr Nityananda Sarma, Hargobinda Pathak, Trailokya Sarma, Jatin Pathak, Niren Thakuria, Naba Kumar Talukdar and Naba Thakuria. The other programmes of this day will be banti prajyalan and cultural nite.A seminar will also be held on the third day which will be inaugurated by Ramcharan Pathak. Dr Basanta Kumar Goswami will conduct the seminar. The participants will be Chiranjib Jain, Dr Bir Deka, Madhab Deka, Mohan Das, and Munindra Narayan Goswami.The open meeting will be inaugurated by Dr Malaya Barman, Gautam Bora, Education Minister, Dr Himanta Biswa Sarma, Health Minister, Dr Bhumidhar Barman, Revenue Minister, Chandramohan Patowary, Dr Gobinda Prasad Sarma, Taburam Taid, M Mahchin Ali and Sankar Prasad Rai will attend the function as distinguished guests. The chairperson will be Malin Ch Sarma. The other programmes of the last day will be banti prajyalan, cultural function and felicitation, etc. source: assam tribune

Lahowal journalists’ conference concluded From our Staff Correspondent DIBRUGARH, Jan 17: The biennial conference of Lahowal Sangbadik Santha conclu

Lahowal journalists’ conference concluded From our Staff CorrespondentDIBRUGARH, Jan 17: The biennial conference of Lahowal Sangbadik Santha concluded here at Mottock Tea Estate Public Auditorium yesterday with a day-long programme. The day’s programme started with the hoisting of Santha’s flag by its president Uma Kanta Changmai. Santha secretary Parinita Baruah offered floral tributes to all those who had sacrificed their lives. Adviser of All Assam Journalists’ Union I Ahmed formally inaugurated the open meeting with Uma Kanta Changmai in the chair. The meeting felicitated noted educationist, columnist, writer, drama critic and senior journalist Dr Deva Ranjan Dhar, social activist of the Lahowal area Ms Deva Bala Hazarika, director of Upper Assam TV Nasimul Gani and chief news editor of the UA TV Dr Mala Rani Dutta on the occasion, for their contribution towards development of the society as well as media. Irrigation Minister Prithivi Majhi and Dibrugarh Deputy Commissioner Ashutosh Agnihotri also graced the occasion as chief guests. source: sentinel assam

Pak textbooks build hate culture against India

Pak textbooks build hate culture against India
http://indiasecular.wordpress.com/
By Arif Mohammed Khan
Jan. 11, 2009

The empowerment of terror in Pakistan has not happened overnight. This is the logical culmination of the politics and policies pursued by Pakistan for years now.

Terrorism in Pakistan has its roots in the culture of hate and the ethos of inequality on the ground of religious faith, leading to their being deeply ingrained in the Pakistani psyche and mindset.

One factor that has played a crucial role in creating this culture of hate is the educational policy of the government of Pakistan pursued since 1977.
The officially prescribed textbooks, especially for school students, are full of references that promote hate against India in general, and Hindus in particular.

A cursory glance at Pakistani school textbooks - especially the compulsory subjects like Pakistan studies and social studies - gives an idea of how history has been distorted and a garbled version prescribed to build this mindset and attitude.

The objective of Pakistan’s education policy has been defined thus in the preface to a Class VI book: “Social studies have been given special importance in educational policy so that Pakistan’s basic ideology assumes the shape of a way of life, its practical enforcement is assured, the concept of social uniformity adopts a practical form and the whole personality of the individual is developed.” This statement leaves no doubt that “social uniformity”, not national unity, is a part of Pakistan’s basic ideology.

The Class V book has this original discovery about Hindu help to bring British rule to India: “The British had the objective to take over India and to achieve this, they made Hindus join them and Hindus were very glad to side with the British. After capturing the subcontinent, the British began on the one hand the loot of all things produced in this area, and on the other, in conjunction with Hindus, to greatly suppress the Muslims.”

The Std VIII book says, “Their (Muslim saints) teachings dispelled many superstitions of the Hindus and reformed their bad practices. Thereby Hindu religion of the olden times came to an end.”

On Indo-Pak wars, the books give detailed descriptions and openly eulogize ‘jihad’ and ‘shahadat’ and urge students to become ‘mujahids’ and martyrs and leave no room for future friendship and cordial relations with India.

According to a Class V book, “In 1965, the Pakistani army conquered several areas of India, and when India was on the point of being defeated, she requested the United Nations to arrange a ceasefire. After 1965, India, with the help of Hindus living in East Pakistan, instigated the people living there against the people of West Pakistan, and finally invaded East Pakistan in December 1971. The conspiracy resulted in the separation of East Pakistan from us. All of us should receive military training and be prepared to fight the enemy.”

The book prescribed for higher secondary students makes no mention of the uprising in East Pakistan in 1971 or the surrender by more than 90,000 Pakistani soldiers. Instead, it claims, “In the 1971 India-Pakistan war, the Pakistan armed forces created new records of bravery and the Indian forces were defeated everywhere.”The students of Class III are taught that “Muhammad Ali (Jinnah) felt that Hindus wanted to make Muslims their slaves and since he hated slavery, he left the Congress”. At another place it says, “The Congress was actually a party of Hindus. Muslims felt that after getting freedom, Hindus would make them their slaves.”And this great historic discovery is taught to Std V students, ”Previously, India was part of Pakistan.”Commenting on this literature that spreads hate, leading Pakistani educationist Tariq Rahman wrote, “It is a fact that the textbooks cannot mention Hindus without calling them cunning, scheming, deceptive or something equally insulting. Students are taught and made to believe that Pakistan needs strong and aggressive policies against India or else Pakistan will be annihilated by it.” (The author is a former Union minister.)

NREGA: a historic legislation

— Dr H K GoswamiA key element that unexpectedly propelled the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) to power in May 2004 was the deep distress in India’s countryside. The passage of the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) in 2005 is an important action of the UPA fulfilling mandate-2004. The Act initially came into force in 200 economically backward districts of the country from February 2, 2006. The formulation and implementation of NREGA constitute a significant step towards poverty alleviation by providing an institutional framework for guaranting supplementary livelihood opportunity to the rural households.

NREGA is the first ever law internationally, that guarantees wage employment at an unprecedented scale. NREGA aims at enhancing livelihood security of households in rural areas of the entire country by providing at least one hundred days of guaranteed wage employment in a financial year to every household whose adult members volunteer to do unskilled manual work. The primary objective of the Act is augmenting wage employment. But its auxiliary objective is strengthening natural resource management through works that address causes of chronic poverty like drought, deforestation and soil erosion and so encourage sustainable development. The process outcomes include strengthening grassroots processes of democracy and infusing transparency and accountability in governance.

Unique features of NREGA include : time bound employment guarantee and wage payment within 15 days, incentive-disincentive structure to the State governments for providing employment as 90 per cent of the cost for employment provided is borne by the Centre or payment of unemployment allowance at their own cost and emphasis on labour intensive work prohibiting the use of contractors and machinery. The Act also mandates 33 per cent participation for women.

During the first year of implementation in 200 districts (financial year 2006-07), 2.10 crore households were employed. In 2007-08. 3.39 crore households were provided employment in 330 districts of the country. In 2008-09, up to mid-September, 2008, 2.9 crore households have been provided employment across the country. Comparing data on employment provided for phase-I and Phase-II districts from April to September, from financial year 2007-08 to financial year 2008-09, there is an increase of 17 per cent. Similarly, there has been an increase of 47 per cent in men generation in Phase-I and Phase-ll districts from financial year 2007-08 to financial year 2008-09 in the period from April to mid-September 2008. Moreover, the average wage paid under NREGA has increased from Rs. 75 to Rs. 80 in the financial year 2008-09 at the national level. The enhanced wage earning has led to a strengthening of the livelihood resource base of the rural poor. In 2007-08, more than 68 per cent of the funds utilized were in the form of wages paid to the labourers. In 2008-09, 71 per cent of the funds have been utilized in the form of wages (up to September 2008).

Significantly, the NREGA Programme had a high workforce participation of marginalised groups, namely, Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (57 per cent in financial year 2007-08). In financial year 2008-09, up to mid-September 2008, the participation of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes has been 55 per cent. Women workforce participation has also surpassed the statutory minimum requirement of one-third participation. In the financial year 2007-08, women participation was 43 per cent, which has increased to 49 per cent up to mid-September, 2008.

To avoid irregularities in wage payment, the Government of India has been encouraging the State governments to make wage payment through bank and post office accounts of wage seekers. Up to mid-September 2008, 4.2 crore NREGA bank and post office accounts have been opened to disburse wages. Workers are also being covered under Janshri Bima Yojana and Rastriya Swasthya Bima Yojana for accidental and health insurance.

Salutary effects have also been noted on natural resources through water conservation, land development, and afforestation projects taken up in large measures under NREGA. Enhancement of agricultural productivity has also been made possible through water harvesting, check dams, ground water recharging (particularly in Dungarpur district in Rajasthan and Villupuram district of Tamil Nadu), improve moisture content, check soil erosion and micro-irrigation works. The information from the field in the first year for which details are available shows that 75 per cent of the 8.3 lakh works have been water-harvesting structures, minor irrigation tanks, community wells, land development, flood control, plantations and so on. Benefits include the creation of over 12 crore cubic metres of water .storage capacity, three lakh km of drainage and embankments in water logged areas, 3.5 lakh hectares each of plantations and 1and development. These contribute also to drought proofing in low rainfall and semi-desert regions.

ln the financial year 2007-08, 17.88 lakh works were undertaken, of which 49 per cent constituted water conservation, 17 per cent rural connectivity, 16 per cent land development and provision of irrigation facility to individual beneficiaries constituted around 15 per cent and remaining 3 per cent works related to other activities. In the financial year 2008-09, up to mid- September 2008, 19.14 lakh works have been undertaken, of which 44 per cent relate to water conservation, 15 per cent rural connectivity, 23 per cent land development and provision of irrigation facility to individual beneficiaries constituted around 18 per cent and remaining 1 per cent works related to other activities.

Unlike many other programmes, programme implementation under NREGA has been entrusted to Panchyati Raj institutions which are the main planning and implementation authorities. Gram Sabhas have been assigned a pivotal role in planning. monitoring and social audit of projects under the Act.

A Central Employment Guarantee Council (CEGC) at the national level has been set up with the statutory mandate of monitoring and reviewing the Act. The CEGC and the Executive Council have been meeting regularly and the EC members visited Jharkhand. Tamil Nadu, Orissa in 2007 and Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra in 2008. For effective monitoring of the projects 100 per cent verification of the works at the block level. 10 per cent at the district level and 2 per cent at the State level inspections need to be ensured.
(The writer is former Principal, Mangaldoi College)
source: assam tribune

Economic meltdown: agenda for India in 2009

— Dr Subhrangshu Sekhar Sarkar2008 may not have been the best of all times but it was not the worst either. It experienced some volatility may it be in economy, politics, stock markets etc. Global oil and commodity prices reached skywards last year fuelling inflation and a hike in interest rate in India. This was followed by the tremors from the US financial crisis and India took a blow as GDP growth rate projection went down sharply from 9 per cent to 5.5 pe rcent. On the top there was a terror attack on Mumbai. But this does not exhaust everything of significance. There are positive signs in Indian economy. For example, where oil price plunged from record peaks of $147 in July 2008 to below $40 currently. Inflation is coming down and that should enable interest rate cuts to restart India’s consumption boom. Moreover, the current crisis has led to calls to redesign the global financial architecture and give a greater role to big emerging players such as India, a significant player in the world’s economic affairs. To this end, heads of the government of Group of 20 (G20) already met in Washington in November 2008. G8 may give way to G20, giving India a seat at the high table.

India certainly is not an exception to the global economic meltdown but fortunately the problem here is not as acute as in some other countries. Conservatism and excessive regulation of banking in India, perhaps, has helped us in this instance. This should not give any reason to halt reforms in the future. The current economic crisis provides us with a timely opportunity to review our basic pattern of economic growth and development. We have largely pursued a form of development that emulates the western industrialised world. Sometimes, it seems that this model is largely unsuited to our conditions. It is now seen as flawed even to the citizens of the developed world. It has created high level of economic disparity between different sections of society.

The Deloitte Global Economic Outlook: 4th Quarter 2008, a report published by five Deloitte economists which discusses the historical precedent of financial crisis while predicting the future beyond the current economic predicament for India. The report clearly highlights that currently India will face slower growth prospects with analysts predicting a fall of as much as two percentage points over the next couple of years. However in the longer term, the outlook will depend on the government’s ability to invest in infrastructure and the fundamentals of the Indian economy remain strong and a bounce-back, once set in motion, will be faster than other economies in Europe, North America and Japan. Commenting on the report Dr Kalish, Director of Global Economics, Deloitte Research, said "This report is meant to provide a strategic perspective about the economy for the business community. In the current environment, it is important for companies in both developed and emerging countries to understand the risks they face and the potential impact on their business strategies."

Currently the global economy remains at substantial risk, but the speed and size of the various governmental rescue efforts bode well for a recovery in the not-too-distant future. However, more than half of India’s services and merchandise exports go to the US and the ongoing slowdown in the US economy will likely to affect the future growth in India’s exports. Experts predict that US businesses would likely to reduce outsourcing or withhold expansion plans. Consequently, BPOs, financial services and other software exports contributing to about two per cent of India’s GDP are likely to be affected. Industry association National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM) has predicted that there is likely to be a significant impact of the global crisis on the Indian BPO sector. Despite significant Asian growth and India’s strategy to focus on non-US markets for exports, a slowdown in the US is expected to influence almost all economies worldwide which will have an eventual cascading impact on the Indian economy.

Notably, for quite some time, India has been demanding its rightful place in international financial institutions like the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank by arguing that they no longer represent the realities of the world and the balance of power in these organisations is tilted more towards the developed countries.

The RBI, in an attempt to ease the liquidity constraints in the economy, reduced the CRR rate several times in September and October, reduced the Statutory Liquidity Ratio and introduced other changes in the quantum of External Commercial Borrowings and foreign institutional investments into the capital markets through participatory notes." The fiscal stimulus package announced by the Government in the New Year 2009 includes several measures to address problems faced by the economy. Lack of access to credit; slow down of exports and domestic demand, as well as accumulation of inventories have been key sources of stress in the economy. Of course, the new package declared in the New Year demands mentioning of some facts. Firstly, with the reduction in interest rates, household loans would become more affordable, however, at the same time care should be taken to remove the apprehension in the minds of the lender regarding recovery of loans. There must be stimulus for lenders to reduce the risk. Secondly, even though repo and reverse repo rate cuts are positive, the CRR cut is not sufficient. Interest rates need to be brought down to the 2004 levels at around 8 to 9 per cent. This may be a way to spur demand and that will lead to economic growth. Thirdly, there is a feeling of many captains of India Inc. that significant benefit could flow to the economy from the additional funding options provided to IIFCL. If indeed, infrastructure projects worth Rs. 1,00,000 crore are implemented over the next 18 months, as envisaged in the package, it will provide a significant stimulus to the economy. Though Government has recognized the importance of infrastructure, yet IIFCL has their limitation that disallows it against lending more than the amount provided by the lead banker in the consortium. Fourth, the relaxation of ECB norms is a positive step as corporate can access borrowings outside India. However, a question is raised regarding the very existence of funds in the international market which could not be mopped up, considering drying up of liquidity in that sphere too.

As we enter 2009 some sad memories of 2008 could obviously cloud our outlook. But the world and India must move on in the New Year. Even though India is feeling the pinch of the financial crisis, however, India could benefit the most from this economic meltdown as this offers new opportunities to it. India has been hurt by the global financial crisis, but it may be better positioned for a quick recovery and for future growth than many of the other developing economies. Indian financial sector is relatively insulated; the rupee is not fully convertible; and Indian banks did not have significant exposure to sub-prime loans in the United States. However, its stock market has been badly hit as foreign institutional investors have sold almost $10 billion of their investments in Indian companies to cover losses accrued in their home markets. Even as there are lot of issues of concern and the Indian economy will be unable to avoid the fallout of a US and European recession, there are reasons for optimism about how quickly India could turn the corner.

The unhappy developments that took place in the last year must provide us determination and willpower to improve our governance and refurbish our institutions by taking care of structural infirmities and systematic failures that contributed to economic meltdown at the global level. There are plenty of things to look forward in 2009.
(The writer is Reader in Business Administration department, Tezpur University) source: assam tribune

Oscar ahoy

Oscar ahoy
— Indian cinema, like creative entities in other disciplines in this country, today looks to the West for value judgement on quality as well commensurate accolades. Nowadays, the outputs of Indian artists are not judged by aesthetic merit, but the price fetched in Western auction houses. A Booker prize is the ultimate El Doredo for Indian authors, never mind that native readers are none too pleased with their themes. Thus Bollywood cannot be faulted for considering a Western cinematic award as the acme of achievement. One can analyse such fixation as colonial hangover, but everyone, from clothes designers to athletes, are obsessed with applause from the West. Gone are the days when a thespian giant like Dilip Kumar would turn down a role in the Oscar winning epic Lawrence of Arabia. Today, a role in a Hollywood production would be the jewel in the crown of an Indian actor’s CV. Every Bollywood film director worth his or her salt aspires towards an Oscar, though these have been hard to come by. But now it appears that the dream of our dream-merchants are on the verge of being translated into reality, with the India-based film, Slumdog Millionaire, bagging no less than four Golden Globe awards, including those for the best motion picture drama, best director and best screenplay. The icing on the cake, of course, is the Golden Globe award for best music score to our very own AR Rahman.

Traditionally the Golden Globes have been pointers to which way the Oscar wind might blow. With the Critics Choice awards and the British Independent Film awards also in its bag, Slumdog Millionaire thus has more than fair chance of grabbing an Oscar or two, with AR Rahman too very much in contention. However, before we in India raise three cheers to such a possibility, it needs to be pointed out that the film itself is very much a British production, being directed by Danny Boyle, the screenplay being done by Simon Beaufoy. Though some Bollywood actors are in the cast, important characters such as the protagonist Jamal Malik are played by British born Indians such as Dev Patel. Almost predictably so, the setting is in the infamous Dharavi slums of Mumbai, while the rag to riches plotline panders to the predilection of Westerners for negative Indian stereotypes. Given such a predilection, past Oscar entries such as Lagaan, where upstart Indians defeated the white sahibs in a game of cricket, had not stood a chance! The sole Indian interest with Slumdog, therefore, would centre around whether Rahman gets an Oscar. Yet, musical genius that he indubitably is, Rahman hardly needs a Hollywood statuette to testify to his prodigious talent. source: assam tribune

Threat from Bangladeshis

Threat from BangladeshisThe Union Home Minister, P Chidambaram in a candid interview admitted that illegal immigrants were causing demographic changes in Assam and West Bengal. To him a Bangladeshi is a Bangladeshi irrespective of whether he was a Muslim or non Muslim and he had no business to stay here without a residential permit. He also expressed his annoyance at the large number of visas issued to them every year and voiced concern over the very ineffective monitoring system to check whether a Bangladeshi coming to India returned to his country after expiry of his visa or stayed on. He also made it clear that some parts of history cannot be retraced. So, one has to learn to accept it but to make sure that it does not continue for the next five or ten years. Chidambaram’s statement makes it clear that the Government of India is concerned with illegal migration of Bangladeshis to Assam and its helplessness to deport the large number of illegal migrants who had already settled in the State over the years. But the government was determined to stop further migration by sealing the Assam-Bangladesh border.

It is also heartening to note that the legislators irrespective of party affiliations discussed this grave matter in the recently concluded Assam Assembly and voiced their concern over illegal migration from Bangladesh. The opposition proposal to adopt a House resolution demanding immediate sealing of the border and sending an all party delegation to Delhi to meet the Prime Minister and the Union Home Minister to put pressure on them to expedite sealing of the border was gracefully accepted by the Government. Dr Bhumidhar Burman. Minister-in –charge of Assam Accord Implementation stated that the sealing of the border could not be completed because of border disputes and adverse possession of land by Bangladesh. He also admitted that the two Central government organisations, NBCC and NPCC did not give much importance to attend review meetings and send junior officials to such meetings. It is most unfortunate that a senior Minister like Dr Burman should express helplessness in dealing with the two Central government organisations entrusted with a most important task. The non cooperating attitude of these two organisations should be brought to the notice of the Prime Minister for taking the top officials to task. We hope that sealing of the border would be expedited if both the State and the Central Governments join hands and sort out the problems through face to face discussion without resorting to delaying official routine procedure. source: assam tribune

Tea company’s bid to promote Bodo weavers

Tea company’s bid to promote Bodo weavers

: From our CorrespondentJORHAT, Jan 15: McLeod Russel India Limited, which owns and operates 47 tea estates in different parts of the State, has been executing an ambitious scheme to promote Bodo weaving skills since 1995. Billed as the Bodo Handloom Scheme, the project was initiated at Borengajuli Tea Estate, located 10 km from the Bhutan foothills in Udalguri district, for the economic uplift of Bodo women in the nearby villages through the handloom enterprise. An exclusive Bodo handloom showroom was opened at Behora Tea Estate of McLeod Russel India Limited recently as part of the Bodo Handloom Scheme. The range of products for display and sale include garment fabrics, table mats, table cloths, bed sheets, bed covers, cotton rugs, aprons, bathroom sets, shirts, kurtas and others. These handloom items are also sold at trade fairs, clubs, hospitals, schools and households both in Asom and outside. The products are also lapped up by the tea fraternity. The tea company has been funding a total 140 weavers under the scheme. They are provided the cotton yarn which is dyed locally, mainly in ethnic colours showcasing their culture and heritage. The weavers are guided in the colour combinations, patterns and designs. The subsequent processes of stitching, knotting and correct-sizing are supervised by the Bodo Handloom Scheme centre and its tailors. A release from the company said that the weavers earn 40 per cent of the total cost of the finished product. The biggest advantage under the scheme is that the weavers can work at their own pace at home and on their own handlooms, the release added. This is a self-sustaining venture which has been functioning on a no-profit, no-loss basis in order to promote a good cause, the release maintained. McLeod Russel India Limited, which claims to be the largest bulk tea producer of the country with its annual production standing at 70 million kg, has guaranteed the quality and resilience of the fabrics produced by the weavers under the Bodo Handloom Scheme. source: sentinel assam

Illegal coal trading continues at Margherita

Illegal coal trading continues at Margherita

: From our Staff CorrespondentDIBRUGARH, Jan 15: The illegal trade of coal continues to flourish at Margherita in Tinsukia district. A section of traders have been running this business without paying any taxes to the authorities. People alleged that the trade goes on with the active support of a section of Coal India Limited officials.Several student and environmental organizations have tried to draw the attention of authorities towards the coal mafia running their business in the mines at Tirap, Tikok, Borgolai and Namdang.The open cast mining in the area is posing a serious threat to the environment as well as residents living in the area. Poisonous water and gas from the mines run by multinational mining companies have damaged fields in and around the area. However, nothing has been done by Coal India to prevent this or even compensate and rehabilitate the villagers. The public enterprise has failed to live up to its responsibility of ensuring of healthcare to its employees not to talk of the local general populace. While people rush to Margherita hospital run by CIL, the establishment is yet equipped with the state of art technology. Serious patients are referred to either AOD Hospital in Digboi or to Assam Medical College and Hospital in Dibrugarh. In a recent mining accident, the victims had to be taken to these two places for treatment since the facilities in CIL Hospital at Margherita were not such as to handle these cases.Huge tracts of forestland on the Patkai hills have been cleared to carry out mining. There has been alarming decline in flora and fauna while cases of tuberculosis and other lung diseases are on the rise. Around 22 coke industries are running in and around the area causing air pollution.Locals say that the illegal coal business has been running with the connivance of a section of police officials. Media have repeatedly reported on it but the concerned authorities have remained silent spectators. Meanwhile, the coal mafia is also pushing Coal India Limited to closure. Coal-laden trucks slip out of the town every night. Petty traders smuggled out coal in sacks. While the general people are fully aware of these going on, the police and CIL securitymen seem to have no knowledge about it, if one goes by the fact that they have never acted against any one in this regard. source: sentinel assam

north east news

PATH organizes workshop at Laluk

From our Correspondent
N Lakhimpur, Jan 13: A three-day worshop-cum-training was organized by the People for Action Truth and Humanity (PATH), an active NGO of Laluk in collaboration with the Rastriya Gramin Vikash Nidhi, Guwahati at Laluk on recently. The inaugaration meet was held with Ashim Saikia in the chain while Prof Joytiprasad Chetia, programme co-ordinator, PATH, explained the aims and objectives of the workshop. Participating as the resource person Dr Uma Tamuli, Assistant Professor, college of veterinary science, Lakhimpur said that unemployed youth will be benifited through rearing of piggery, goat etc. Accountancy was also a subject matters of the training camp where members of 57 numbers of SHG took part.

Xatriya workshop held

From a correspondent
JORHAT, Jan 13: A 15-day Xatriya workshop held under the aegis of the Directorate of Cultural Affairs concluded at the Rongdoi English ME School, here yesterday. Borbayan Janardan Barbayan initiated 108 participants in the steps and mudras of maakhara, jumura and Krihsna nritya as part of Xatriya nritya. Among those who addressed the concluding function were DIPRO Dushyanta Madhav Sharma, dancer Kamal Gogoi, Gubind Bora and Jaganath Agni Bora. The vote of thanks was offered Rajiv Kumar Nazir.

Ultras explode grenade in Manipur hotel

IMPHAL, Jan 13 – Unidentified militants exploded a powerful grenade inside a private hotel near here in Imphal West district, official sources said today. The militants triggered the explosion near the reception of Hotel Bheigo at Wahengbam Leikai area here last evening, sources said. Nobody was injured in the blast but windows and a motorbike parked near the hotel was damaged in the blast, police said. Senior police officers visited the spot for investigations. No individual or group has claimed responsibility for the incident. Police said some militants of banned Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP) allegedly had demanded money from the hotel authorities a few months ago but the matter was settled after negotiations with the militants. – PTI

Assam, Assamese will survive: Gogoi

Staff Reporter GUWAHATI, Jan 10 – The Assamese nationality and the State of Assam will survive in the days to come and nothing can pose threat to their existence, said Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi in the State Assembly here today. He was taking part in the debate on the supplementary demand for grant of the Police Department.Gogoi said that there should not be any attempt at harping on corruption in the Police Department. For, this will send a wrong signal to the people. He however, admitted that corruption was there in the Department.Contrary to the allegations of the Opposition, he said that in the counrty, officers of the Assam Police were known as the most efficient ones.Asserting that there was no political interference in the functioning of the Police Department, he said that there was no formal complaint of such interferences. He also apprised the House that the State Government was going to introduce a bill limiting the tenure of the officers and personnel of the Department at a place to two years, going by an order of the Supreme Court of India.The Government is also setting up a police academy to train up the officers and personnel of the Department in a better manner and a committee has been set up to suggest measures to brighten up the image of the Department, he said.Commenting on the manpower shortage in the Department, he said that new police battalions were being set up, but, here, fund crunch was posing problems. The State Government wants that the Central Government should bear 50 per cent of the burden against the salaries of the officers and personnel employed in these battalions for the next ten years, he said.He reiterated that the State Government was keen on modernising the Police Department and much modernisation of the Department had taken place under the present regime. However, in containing terrorism, cooperation of the people is also needed and people should be made security conscious, he said and asserted that confidence of the people in police had been growing these days and more feed back on the movements of the terrorists were now received from the people.He also claimed that during the seven and half-a-year rule of the Congress 1,544 people were killed in terrorist attacks, whereas during the five-year rule of the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) 1,535 people were killed. At present, the terrorists are taking recourse to bomb blasts.If things were allowed to go on as they were during the AGP rule, the number of persons killed during the past seven and half-a-year would have stood at around 2,300, he claimed.In all, he said, police recovered 2,550 bombs and grenades during the rule of the present Government, said Gogoi. The Chief Minister reiterated that his Government was determined to deport the aliens and claimed that his party had no vote bank politics as alleged by the Opposition. He announced his readiness to hold a discussion on secret killing in the Assembly and also agreed to the Opposition’s suggestion that such a discussion should cover the entire period since 1991.After the speech of the Chief Minister the demand of the Police Department for a supplementary grant of Rs 1,520. 65 lakh was passed by the House. source: assam tribune