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8 Pages Rs: 1.00 Jammu Edition www.thestudentage.com

STUdenT aGe
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 2, 2013

JKENG/2012/41612 Vol. 1 No: 182

PAKISTAN, CHINA SIGN

CONTRACT FOR MANUFACTURING AL-KHALID-I TANK

Winter woes worsen in north India; claims 97 lives in UP this season

WORLD WELCOMES NEW YEAR 2013 WITH FIREWORKS, FESTIVITIES

IN BRIEF Govt operationalises roll out of Cash Transfer scheme in 20 districts

Govt for access to primary education for all children by 2017: Raju
NEW DELHI: Union Minister for Human Resources Development (HRD) M.M.Pallam Raju said that focus is being given to provide primary education to all children in the country by the year 2017. The Minister was speaking after laying foundation stone for H.K.Sherwani Centre for Deccan Studies at Moulana Azad National Urdu University in Hyderabad on Monday. He stressed the need to evolve inclusive education contd on page 2 NEW DELHI: The government's ambitious direct cash transfer of subsidies scheme is operational Tuesday. But, the first phase of the roll-out - which was meant to cover 51 districts and 34 welfare schemes - is being scaled down to cover just 20 districts and seven schemes. Gaps in infrastructure, like bank accounts and beneficiary lists, has forced the government to pare down the project, which it has pitched as a 'game-changer'. subsidies to bank accounts of beneficiaries will kick-off in six districts of Maharashtra Tuesday, an official said. Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan will launch the scheme in Mumbai and Mumbai Suburban District while guardian ministers of Pune, Nandurbar, Wardha and Amravati will launch it in their respective districts. "From today, beneficiaries will start receiving cash benefits under certain schemes. Later, more schemes will be added," an aide to the chief minister said Tuesday. Just how will this scheme play out? For example, scholarships for higher education for low-caste students, which were previously paid to a university, would instead be transferred directly to the individual who would then pay for his or her studies. The seven schemes that will be now employ direct cash transfers to beneficiaries are mostly related to student scholarships and stipends and the Indira Matrutva Yojna and Dhanalakshmi schemes. It is estimated that at least two lakh beneficiaries will receive cash benefits starting January 1. Cash benefits in the remaining 19 schemes will be available from February and March when the government will cover 23 other districts across the country. Advocates of the scheme say its advantage is that the government can confirm the welfare subsidy has reached the intended claimant, without them having to pay bribes to secure their due or officials diverting the funds for other purposes. The government has, however, said that there is no intention at this stage to start handing out cash in place of subsidised food, fuel and fertiliser -three key benefits for the poor in the country. But contd on page 2

"This is a game-changer for governance... this is a game-changer in how we account for money, it is game-changer in how the

benefits reach the individual," Finance Minister P Chidambaram said on Monday. The central government's direct cash transfer of

'Stay Alive, Don't Drink and Drive'focus of countrywide Road Safety Week
NEW DELHI: Road safety week focusing on the pitfalls of drunken driving began across the country today. The theme of campaign is 'Stay Alive, Don't Drink and Drive'. Road and Highways minister, CP Joshi has appealed to all stakeholders to join hands with the government in its efforts to make roads safer and develop a sustainable contd on page 2

Fiscal deficit hits 80% of Budget estimates in April-November

NEW DELHI,JAN 1: The government has run up a fiscal deficitof 80.4% of the budget estimates in the first eight months of the current financial year, marginally better than 85.6% in the same period last fiscal. Fiscal deficit stood at Rs 4.13 lakh crore during April-November, 2012-13, according to Controller General of Accounts(CGA) data released on Monday. Fiscal deficit in 2011-12 was 1.8% points higher than budgeted 4.1% of the GDP and this year the government has revised the estimate to 5.3% from 5.1% at the time of budget. The slight improvement in deficit numbers over the last financial year is largely on account of some tightening on the expenditure front. Though, the finance ministryhas put tight controls on the expenditure the revenue collections continue to be sluggish on the back of slowdown. This includes 10% mandatory cut on non-plan expenditure in the current year, ban on holding of meetings and conferences at 5-star hotels, ban on creation of plan and non-plan posts and restrictions on foreign travel. In order to bring down the subsidy, the government in September raised the diesel price by a steep Rs 5 per litre and contd on page 2

Youths arrested for protesting against Pulwama firing: PDP

JAMMU,JAN 1: Opposition PDP claimed that youths have been arrested on "flimsy charges" by the police for protesting against last week's firing in Pulwama district. Issuing a statement today, PDP leaders Naeem Akhtar, Syed Altaf Bukhari, Mohammad Khalil Bandh and Syed Bashir Ahmad alleged that while "no action is contemplated against the perpetrators" of the firing incident, youth are "arrested for having protested against it". They also demanded immediatecontd on page 2

J&K govt dedicates 2013 to daughters

JAMMU,JAN 1: The Jammu and Kashmir government has decided to dedicate the year 2013 to daughters and observe it as 'Save the Girl Child' year. "As part of a campaign against female foeticide and to promote the girl child, the state health department will dedicate 2013 to daughters and observe the year as 'save the girl child' year", Minister for Health and Family Welfare Sham Lal Sharma said yesterday. Seeking society's support to curb female foeticide, Sharma said only government efforts were not sufficient to deal with the menace, but the entire society has to contribute. He said the government has already sought help from religious

J&K to strengthen laws against gender crimes

JAMMU,JAN 1: The Jammu and Kashmir government plans to bring in changes in the state's laws against sexual offences and gender crimes. Minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs Ali Mohammad Sagar Tuesday held a meeting with department's officials to review the laws in the state. "It was emphasised that effective and stringent provisions are needed in the law against sexual offences to and social organisations to maintain a healthy sex ratio and added that a positive response has been received. Need of the hour is to step up efforts to achieve the desired results, make it a deterrent and in tune with public sentiments," Sagar said. He said the steps were being taken on the directions of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. The changes in law will deal with various stages of the case, including investigation, prosecution "The department will also consult experts to make the changes comprehensive and effective," Sagar said. contd on page 2 he added. Expressing concern over the increase in number of eve-teasing and sexual harassment cases, the minister said contd on page 2

Sanjiv Bhatt gets Mother Teresa award for social justice

AHEMDABAD: Mumbaibased Harmony Foundation delivered the 5th Mother Teresa Award for Social Justice to suspended IPS officer, Sanjiv Bhatt, in the city on Monday. Bhatt was chosen for the award for standing up against the communal forces and ensuring protection of the vulnerable and insecure minorities. "As Bhatt contd on page 2

J&K witnessed 71 border firing incidents; 7 killed

JAMMU,JAN 1: Jammu and Kashmir witnessed over 70 incidents of cross-border firing along Indo-Pak border in which seven persons including four security personnel were killed and 15 others injured this year. As many as 71 incidents of border firing took place along the Line of Control (LoC) and International Border (IB) this year, a recent report compiled by state Home Ministry said. Seven persons including four security personnel, two civilians and one Pakistani intruder were killed in the incidents of border firing, it said. As many as 15 persons, including 12 security personnel and three civilians, were injured, the report said. There has been increase in the incidents of crossborder firing this year, it said. There were 51 cases of cross-border firing and ceasefire violations along the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir in 2011 as compared to 44 cases in 2010 and 28 in 2009. The increase in firing incidents and ceasefire violations by Pakistan gain significance in light of detection of 400metre-long tunnel in Jammu and Kashmir's Samba sector on July 28 and subsequent lodging of strong protest on July 31.

Special Feature on achievements of Omar-led Govt in 2012

2012 - A year of consolidation, good-governance
ed for public empowerment, transparency, strengthening of institutions and making public service delivery legally time bound. In recognition of solid measures taken by Omar Abdullah Government, various independent organizations including media houses have conferred awards on the State for registering extraordinary achievements in different sectors of development. While many states have requested the Jammu and Kashmir Government for providing them salient features of SKEWPY to incorporate this path breaking initiative in their policy formulation for addressing unemployment problem and openJAMMU,JAN 1: Actions definitely speak louder than words and works on ground itself highlight the endeavour of author. Same holds true for the Omar-led coalition government whose achievements during last about four years on peace and development itself substantiate the commitment and determination government has exhibiting vistas of self-employment for youth, the Utter Pradesh Government has initiated a similar measure to that of VSA put in place by the Jammu and Kashmir Government to provide unemployment allowance to educated youth. After receiving best States Awards successively in the contd on page 2

DGCA to probe chopper's emergency landing in Vaishnodevi hills

JAMMU,JAN 1:Director General Civil Aviation (DGCA) will be conducting a probe into the emergency landing of a Pawan Hans helicopter in Trikuta hills in Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir, in which seven persons including a pilot were injured. A two-member inquiry team of DGCA is reaching Katra (base camp of Mata Vaishnodevi Shrine) tomorrow to probe the matter, Raj Bhawan Spokesman said tonight. Complying with the directions of Governor N N Vohra, who is also chairman of Shri Mata Vaishnidevi Shrine Board, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Board Naveen Choudhary wrote to DGCA to take immediate cognisance of the incident and commence a time-bound inquiry, he said. Following which, the DGCA ordered a probe into the matter, the spokesman said. A Pawan Hans helicopter with 6 pilgrims was returning from Sanjtichat-based helipad and made an emergency landing at SalalDabri area after the pilot detected a technical snag after take-off, he said. During the emergency landing around 12:10 pm, the helicopter tilted due to non-availability of proper space resulting in injuries 7 people including the pilot. The Shrine Board officials, a medical team, ambulances of the Board and the state health department and Katra Police immediately rushed contd on page 2

'Cyber stalker' arrested for harassing girl through Internet

JAMMU,JAN 1: In the first incident of its kind in Jammu and Kashmir, police has arrested an alleged 'cyber stalker' who was harassing a girl by putting objectionable contents about her on the Internet. "Police received a complaint from a girl in Srinagar that she was being harassed by some Cyber Stalker, who was disseminating obscene material and comments against her in cyberspace," a police spokesman said today. He said during the investigations, contd on page 2

Winter Sports kick started at Gulmarg

GULMARG, JAN 01: On the occasion event of New Year, Winter Sports kick started formally at famous tourist resort and centre of Winter Games of India, the Gulmarg yesterday. As many as 10 sports activities were held during the day from morning till late in the evening. Director Tourism, Mr. Talat Parvez flagged off the various activities which including Sledge Race, Snow Cycling, Snow Marathon, Snow Rugby, Free Style Skiing and Zorbing demonstration. The most attractive event of the snow festival was held in the evening. As many as 30 students representing various districts of the Valley participated in the Ice Skating. This event was followed by Night Skiing and Cracker show late in the night. These events were witnessed by large number of local and non local tourists and various stakeholders camping in snow capped hill resort, braving chilly breeze of sub zero temperature of Challan Kalan (January) nights. Later prize distribution function was held, in which Inspector General of Police, Kashmir Range, Mr. S. M. Sahai also attended besides Chief Executive Officer, Gulmarg Development Authority. Speaking on the occasion, the Director Tourism said that revival of tourism in the J&K has been expedited as the number of tourists visited Valley increased manifold. He said the number of tourists has gone to 13.50 lakh in the year 2012 while it was only 6 lakh in 1989. He said various new games have been introduced in this year's game plan, which include Marathon Race and Sledge Race to boost the tourism industry in the Valley. ''We make efforts to involve more and more youth contd on page 2

IAF to airlift 370 stranded passengers between Jammu, Leh

JAMMU,JAN 1: Indian Air Force will on Tuesday airlift 370 passengers stranded between winter capital city Jammu and Leh belt of Ladakh region, officials said. "IAF would be airlifting 370 stranded people between Jammu and Leh today," Public Relation Officer, Ministry of Defence, S N Acharya said. IL-76 would ferry 120 people, mostly belonging to Kargil district of Ladakh region, contd on page 2

Road safety Week -2013' takes off

Minister for Transport Qamar Ali Akhoon flagging off a massive rally from the Mini Stadium, Parade Ground, in connection with observance of "Road Safety Week-2013" .

JAMMU, JAN 01: The Minister for Transport Mr. Qamar Ali Akhoon today flagged off a massive rally from the Mini Stadium, Parade Ground, in connec-

tion with observance of "Road Safety Week-2013" starting from today. Being organized by the Jammu and Kashmir Transport Department and

Traffic Police in collaboration with other allied departments, the 'Road safety Week' aims at to create mass awareness about road safety rules to contd on page 2

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Pakistan, China sign contract for manufacturing Al-Khalid-I tank
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China have signed a deal for manufacturing the Al-KhalidI main battle tank (MBT), the latest version of the combat vehicle jointly developed by the two "all-weather" friends. The Al-Khalid tank was developed in the 1990s and introduced in 2001. The new version has improved capability and systems, an official statement said Monday. The contract for making the new tanks was signed by Pakistan's Heavy Industries Taxila and China's NORINCO at the Ministry of Defence Production. The joint marketing of the Al-Khalid tank with China would open up potential markets, the statement said. China is Pakistan's top arms supplier and leaders of the two countries describe their relationship as all-weather.

Ibrahim takes over as IB chief

NEW DELHI:Indian Police Service officer S.A. IbrahimTuesday took over as chief of the Intelligence Bureau (IB), becoming the first from the country's main minority community to hold the post. Home ministry sources said Ibrahim took over as IB director Tuesday. Ibrahim, an IPS officer of the Madhya Pradesh cadre, has taken over as from Nehchal Sandhu who retired Dec 31. He will hold the post for two years. Ibrahim was appointed officer on special duty in IB last month after the government decided to elevate him as the head of the organisation. He was serving as special director in the IB earlier. Sources said Ibrahim has direct experience in anti-terror operations and has handled responsibilites ranging from the Kashmir desk to cyber security cell. In his initial career, Ibrahim had field postings in Madhya Pradesh and had encounters with dacoits of Chambal ravines. Officials who have worked with Ibrahim describe him as a gentle, soft-spoken person with talent for information-gathering. A former Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) chief said Ibrahim was "one of the finest officers". Another former police officer, who has worked with Ibrahim in the IB, described him as a "soft spoken, very balanced person". "He will make a very good DIB," the officer, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, told IANS. The officer said Ibrahim had handled security in IB and his "heavy charter" included internal and industrial security. Officials said Ibrahim had influenced thinking on terrorism and suggested that agencies need to pay greater thrust to outfits having base in the country. They said that during his work in Jammu and Kashmir, Ibrahim laid emphasis on engagement with civil society for effectiveness of intelligence work. Ibrahim's appointment comes at a politically crucial juncture as he will be head of IB during the next Lok Sabha polls scheduled for 2014. Sources said the appointment will help counter an impression that members from the Muslim community do not make it to top posts in intelligence and also raise aspirations among members from the community to join the intelligence set up. External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid is also from the country's main minority community.

Air Marshal Kulwant Singh Gill assumes charge as Commandant of NDA Khadakwasla
PUNE: Air Marshal Kulwant Singh Gill, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Yudh Seva Medal, Vayu Sena Medal took over as the new Commandant of the National Defence Academy on 01 January 2013. Air Marshal Gill was commissioned in the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force in 1977 and has more than 7000 hours of accident and incident free flying to his credit. He is also a Qualified Flying Instructor. In his illustrious career spanning 35 years so far, the Air Marshal has had the distinction of commanding various frontline bases. He also has the distinction being the Contingent Commander for the first UN mission to Congo. While commanding Air Force Station Leh, he was instrumental in re-commissioning of two airfields. During his command, Air Force Station Leh was declared the 'Pride of Western Air Command'. * The Chief Minister inaugurated Officers Hostel at Poonch. * Omar Abdullah gives nod for development of 390 MW Karthai-I and 990 MW Karthai-II hydro power projects as fully State owned projects through EPC mode. He also approves construction of 9 MW Hanu and 9 MW Dah power projects and construction of 18 power projects with 245 MW for development under IPP mode of which 12 projects have been deserved for permanent residents of Jammu and Kashmir. * The Chief Minister and the Union Minister for Human Resources Development inaugurated Degree College at Dooru. * The Chief Minister and the Union Rural Development Minister handed over job letters in private sector over 600 youth. * The Chief Minister and External Affairs Minister inaugurated Srinagar Passport Office at Boulevard and laid foundation of Passport Bhavan at Srinagar. * Omar Abdullah launches Radio Taxi operation in Srinagar. * The Chief Minister inaugurated 350 meter via duct at Dalgate completed at a cost of Rs. 13.38 crores. * Omar Abdullah approves Bio-medical waste management projects. * The Chief Minister inaugurated ecotourism initiative at Pir Ki Gali. * Omar Abdullah carries government to Machhil, chairs Cabinet meeting, inaugurated bridge and administrative block besides laying foundation of various infrastructural development projects. * Omar Abdullah approved construction of Srinagar and Jammu Ring Road projects involving Rs. 3000 crores. The Srinagar Ring Road project will start at Galander and meet the National Highway at Narbal Junction in 1st phase and from Narbal to Ganderbal in 2nd phase. The Jammu project will start from Vijaypur and meet the National Highway at Akhnoor where from it will go to Nagrota Byepass. * The Chief Minister inaugurated Lethpora re-activated irrigation scheme. * Omar Abdullah launches FM Channel 2 of Radio Kashmir. * The Chief Minister inaugurated Bank branch and laid foundation of school building in Ganderbal. * The Chief Minister inaugurated Bulbul Shah Sahib new shrine complex. * Omar Abdullah inaugurated bridge over Raimbiara, Shopian constructed at a cost of over Rs. 6.7 crore. * Omar Abdullah and Jairam Naresh handover placement orders to 1423 Himayat trainees. * The Chief Minister inaugurated 4th floor of Mini Civil Secretariat at Jammu besides upgraded and computerized administrative halls of CAPD, G. P. Fund, Transport, Sheep and Animal Husbandry Departments. * The Chief Minister inaugurated Rs. 69.50 crore Rawalpora-Tengpora Storm water drainage system. * Omar Abdullah inaugurated Forensic Science Laboratory constructed at Bemina at a cost of Rs. 11 crore. * Omar Abdullah nods 328 kilometre Bhatinda-Srinagar Gas Pipeline. * Omar inaugurates bridges at Hanjana, Nowshera and Meramandarian, Akhnoor involving Rs. 14.13 crores and Rs. 24.25 crores respectively. * The Chief Minister dedicated 41 newly constructed Model Panchayat Ghars to panchayat institutions. * Omar Abdullah announces creation of Panchayat Lok Adalats. * The Chief Minister inaugurated Zainakadal Heritage Bridge and lays foundation of a new bridge. * The Chief Minister inaugurated free medical camp at Jammu and infrastructure facilities at Gulmarg. * Omar Abdullah receives best State Awards 2012 in health and poverty reduction sectors at New Delhi from India Today and IBN7 groups

Contd. from page 1...

J&K govt....
that an attitudinal change was must to keep a check on such crimes. He advocated a change in the educational set up and suggested introduction of moral education as a subject in every school from the primary level. Sharma went on to say that parents and teachers had a greater role to play in this direction and they must instill morals in the children. He said in the New Year "we all should take a pledge to save the Girl Child and raise our voice against the crimes against the females and to contribute for a healthy and prosperous society".

Winter Sports....
in the different activists of tourism and winter games for which services of national and international repute coaches are being hired to make our youth professionally sound", said the Director Tourism. He said by this year Gulmarg will get fully equipped Internet Centre which will cater the need of tourists besides media persons. Mr. Talat said that because of the efforts put in place by the Government, tourists from United States and various European Countries are visiting here, following relaxation in the Advisory to visit Kashmir. He said by now tourists from all over the world visit Kashmir, which is a good omen in boosting the tourist industry. Later, prizes were distributed among the best three position holders in each game by the Director Tourism at a function organised late in the evening. A musical concert was also played by the renowned musicians of the Valley.

rural and highly areas. He also called for holding regular road safety awareness camps across the state to make the commuters and transport operators aware about the road safety measures. The Divisional Commissioner, Jammu, Mr. Pardeep Gupta, Transport Commissioner, Mr. Mehraj Ahmad Kakroo and Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Traffic Mr. Shakeel Ahmad Beigh threw light on the observance of the Road Safety Week. The awareness rally flagged off by the Minister, comprising on the contingents of Traffic Police, NCC cadets, school children auto-Rikshaws and Bike riders which later on concluded at M.A. Stadium. Inspector General (IG) of Police, Traffic Mr. Munir Ahmed Khan, Director School Education, Mrs. Dev Lata, Director Garages, Mr. G. A. Sofi, MD JKSRTC, Mr. J.S. Tandon, RTO Jammu, Mr. Arvind Kotwal, Representatives of Transport Unions, Members of Automobile Industries, NGOs and Civil Defence besides school children and senior offices of Transport department traffic police and other allied departments were present on the occasion.

prestigious Mother Teresa Memorial International Award for Social Justice this year for their invaluable contribution towards social causes including Dr Sima Samar, chairperson of the Afghan Independent Human Rights Commission & former deputy prime minister of Afghanistan and Malala Yousafzai , student and education activist from Pakistan who was shot at by the Taliban for speaking up for right to education of the girl child. "In the wake of attacks by powerful and hostile forces in the state, Sanjiv Bhatt has been consistently standing up for the rights of others," said Fr Cedric Prakash, while giving away the award.

Fiscal deficit ....

capped the number of subsidised cooking gas cylinders to six per household in a year. Net tax receipts during the April-November period stood at Rs 3.7 lakh crore or 47.9% of the budget estimate. Total expenditure was Rs 8.67 lakh crore or 58.2% of the budget expenses showing that expenditure measures were working.

Youths arrested .....

release of those "arrested" for protesting. Condemning imposition of curfew in Pulwama town, the leaders demanded action against those guilty of the incident that resulted in injuries to seven civilians.

'Cyber stalker' .....

it was found that the accused was operating a fake 'Facebook' account. A case under Section 66 of the Information Technology Act was registered at Shaheed Gunj police station after the investigating team cracked the accounts and arrested the accused. Identity of the alleged stalker and his victim were not revealed by police.

J&K govt...
He said substantive changes would be made in Ranbir Penal Code, Criminal Procedure Code and Evidence Act. The state has its own constitution and penal code. "Necessary initiatives will be taken to provide for fast-track investigation and fast track trial," he said.

IAF to airlift.....
from Jammu to Leh and 250 people from Leh to Jammu, Acharya said.

DGCA to....
to the site, Choudhary said. The pilot and two others were brought to Katra Hospital in a rescue Helicopter, he said adding, ambulances were used to take the other pilgrims to the hospital. Four persons were referred to the Government Medical College (GMC), Jammu for further treatment, he said. "They were rushed to GMC, where doctors have declared their condition as stable and out of danger," he said. The injured pilot was later taken to the Command Hospital Udhampur, Choudhary said.

Govt operationalises....
critics counter that the government has been too quick in pushing forward a pet project and is bound to face enormous implementation problems because of the complex technology and public administration required. The scheme is linked to the government's Universal Identification Number (UID) or Aadhaar scheme, which provides a unique identification number to each citizen in the country. The mammoth exercise of making UID cards for the country's population has taken three 3 years. An estimated 280 million cards have been issued so far. Mexico and Brazil are considered the world leaders in cash welfare schemes, using their Progresa/Oportunidades and Bolsa Familia programmes respectively to target the poor.

Special Feature....
sectors of Health, Horticulture, Forest Protection etc, the Chief Minister recently received Best Diamond States Award 2012 by the IBN7 at a function in New Delhi in the category of Poverty Reduction. Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah had underlined 2012 as the year of consolidation of peace and development and further strengthening public empowerment measures. A significant move forward was witnessed in this regard in the current year. While maintenance of peace, despite many attempts by vested interests, was accomplished successfully resulting in the visit of about 13 lakh tourists to the Valley, over 6 lakh Yatris to Amarnath and over 101 lakh Yatris to Mata Vaishno Devi. This created huge economic activities for people particularly associated with tourism and trade sectors. In yet another step to strengthen Panchayat Institutions and empower these ground level democratic units, the election of Legislative Council seats reserved for Panchayats was conducted and completed successfully. A Coordination Committee of coalition partners has been set into motion to recommend amendments to the State Panchayat Act to make it at par with the Union Act. The State Government also brought the laws of Right to Information Act at par with the Central laws. The list of services classified under Public Service Guarantee Act for time bound delivery has been updated from 50 services to 70 services this year, and services like copy of FIR, verification report from CID for Passport, newly appointed candidates, certification of identity, issuance of character certificate, untraced report in accidents, stolen vehicles and theft cases in Police Department brought under its ambit. Other services covered under the Act are disability certificate, medical illness certificate, medical fitness certificate and post mortem report in Health Department and issuance of NOC by Pollution Control of installation of industrial unit/project in Forest Department. Some major decisions and works undertaken during the year 2012 are briefly enumerated for the readers for quick look.

Road safety....
make travelling on the state roads safe and secure. The slogan of this year's Road Safety Week is "Stay Alive, don't drink and drive". Speaking on the occasion, the Minister stressed upon the officers to take strict measures to minimize the graph of road accidents. He said due to the installation of traffic signals in the capital cities of Jammu and Srinagar, the regulation of traffic has been streamlined to a large extent. The Minister said that the Department of Transport was committed to make travelling on the state roads safe and smooth by strict enforcement of the safety rules and sought the cooperation of the Transporter and driver unions in making journey on the state roads safe. He said due care was being taken to enforce transparency in the issuance of the driving licenses, Fitness Certificates and making provision for adequate services on all the routes of the state. The Minister said that the department was making all out efforts to make roads safe and ensure that fit vehicles driven by well trained drivers ply on the roads. The Minister said that the state government was setting up 2 Hi-Tech Driving Institutes in the State for proper training of the drivers. Speaking on the occasion, Minister of State for Transport, Shabir Ahmed Khan asked the enforcing agencies to implement the road safety rules effectively and deal with the violators strictly. He said that huge loss of life in the road accidents demands strict enforcement of the rules, particularly in the

Govt for access....

system in which priority should be given to provide education to Muslims living below poverty line. He said the recommendations of Sachar Committee are being implemented for educational development of Muslims. He said steps have to be taken to rediscover and revive Urdu.

'Stay Alive, Don't ....

road transport system in the country. He said, the objective of the week is to give everyone an opportunity to promote road safety in their community, schools, work places and on the roads in general. The reports said that over 1.42 lakh people have been killed in 2011 whereas, about 4.9 lakh road accidents reported so far.

Sanjiv Bhat....
was not able to remain present at the function on November 28, we decided to present the award to Bhatt in Ahmedabad in the presence of Fr Cedric Prakash and sisters from the Missionaries of Charity," said Dr Abraham Mithai, president of the Harmony foundation. Bhatt couldn't attend the award ceremony function held at Hotel Grand Hyatt in Mumbai, on November 28. Several other persons also received the

* As many as 35 Cabinet Meetings were held during the 2012 to address development demands and public grievances. * The Cabinet took 228 decisions aimed at launch of projects, creation of posts, infrastructure development and regularization of adhoc, contractual and consolidated employees besides granting arrears and DA instalments to the employees. * The Cabinet approved 13 degree colleges in the State. * The Cabinet approved creation of employees and data-base centralized personal system in the State. * The Cabinet approved conduct of elections to the Municipal Corporations and Committees. * The Cabinet approved establishment of Special Mobile Magistrate and Additional Special Mobile Magistrates. * The Cabinet approved implementation of Baglihar Hydel Project Stage-II. * The Cabinet approved incentives for tourism as an industry. * The Cabinet approved National Population Register project NPR. * The Cabinet approved Convention Centre at Jammu. * The Cabinet approved constitution of State Planning Board. * The Cabinet approved revision of rates of Compensatory Allowance, Border Allowance. * The Cabinet approved upgradation of infrastructure facility at Industrial Estate at Gangyal and Bari Brahamana. * The Cabinet approved establishment of Jammu and Kashmir State Road Development Corporation. * The Cabinet approved improvement and widening of road network in Srinagar city and compensation for rehabilitation of dislocated families. * The Cabinet approved construction of residential flats for employees at Pampore. * The Cabinet approved construction of 18-hole Golf Course at Sidhra. * The Cabinet approved creation of posts of Village Level Workers. * The Cabinet approved revision of J&K RTI Rules. * The Cabinet approved setting up of Wullar Conservation and Management Authority. * The Cabinet approved enhancement in the income ceiling from Rs. 3 lakhs to Rs. 4.50 lakhs in respect of socially and educationally backward classes for availing reservation as per the provision of J&K Reservation Act 2004. * The Cabinet approved Jammu and Kashmir Protection of Interest of depositors' bills 2012. * The Cabinet approved amendment in Employees Provident Fund 1961. * The Cabinet approved J&K Hindu Marriage Rules 2012 and the J&K Marriage Laws amendment Bill 2012. * The Cabinet approved improvement and augmentation of Water Supply Scheme, Kishtwar Town. * The Cabinet approved enhancement of generation capacity of Ratle Hydro Electric Project from 690 to 850 MWs. * The Cabinet approved construction of alternate bridge at Rajouri. * The Cabinet approved revision of Master Plan of Pahalgam Development Authority. * The Cabinet approved dispensing with the cheque system and extension of the civil accounting system to the PWD, PHE, I&FC, PDD and Forest divisions and other cheque drawing units. * The Cabinet approved rolling out of National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) in the State. * The Cabinet approved creation of 322 posts of Dental Assistants in Health Services. * In addition, as many as 117 appointment orders have been approved by the General Administration Department under SRO 43 in relaxation of rules in other Departments. More so 1213 cases were settled by way of granti-

ng relaxation in upper, lower age bar and qualification bar and communicated to the concerned departments. * The Chief Minster approved regularization of 1032 adhoc, contractual and consolidated employees of various departments under Jammu and Kashmir Civil Services (Special Provision) Act 2011. * More 20 services were brought under the ambit of PSGA. Inauguration of projects * The Chief Minister inaugurated 50 MVA 132/33 KV Grid Station at Magam constructed at a cost of over Rs. 17.52 crores. He also energized 17 kilometre long transmission line between Pattan and Magam completed at a cost of over Rs. 4 crore. * The Chief Minister inaugurated 111 Jammu and Kashmir Bank branches and ATM centres to help extend lending and business facilities for people living in rural and far-off areas. * The Chief Minister inaugurated Rs. 21.38 crore Dredging Scheme at Jati, Duagah and Nigli in Baramulla district. * The Chief Minister inaugurated library, conference hall and multi-cuisine restaurant at Jammu Club created at a cost of Rs. 2.10 crore. * The Governor and the Chief Minister inaugurated Rs. 13.65 crore water supply scheme for Mata Vaishno Devi. * The Chief Minister inaugurated DC Office at Poonch completed at a cost of Rs. 5.57 crore. He also inaugurated Rs. 1.71 crore tourist centre at Poonch. * The Chief Minister inaugurated Rs. 13.88 crore power grid station at Chandak to benefit inhabitants of Chandak, Lasana, Mandi, Loran, Haveli, Bandi, Cheechina and adjacent areas. * The Chief Minister inaugurated 50 MVA 132/33 KV grid station at Pooni Check, Jammu at a cost of over Rs. 16.72 crore. * The Chief Minister inaugurated 6 upgraded offices and 3 digital meeting halls at Srinagar Civil Secretariat. * The Chief Minister inaugurated power grid stations of 320 MVA and 100 MVA at Budgam alongwith transmission line involving an expenditure of Rs. 125 crore. * The Chief Minister inaugurated 172 meter long double-lane pre-stressed concrete girder type bridge of 4 spans on River Jhelum at Mujgund completed at a cost of Rs. 12 crores. * The Chief Minister inaugurated 17 bedded additional wards block with X-ray, CT, USG, TMT, Echo, Mammography, Operation Theatres, Recovery Wards and Burn Care Incentive Unit at Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Hospital, Rainawari. * The Chief Minister inaugurated Joggers Park at Rajbagh developed at a cost of Rs. 2.54 crore. * The Chief Minister inaugurated faculty residential accommodation at BGSBU. * The Chief Minister and Union Minister for New and Renewable Energy inaugurated Solar Plant at Old Assembly Complex, Srinagar. * The Chief Minister inaugurated Qurat-ulAyn Haider Girls Hostel at Kashmir University and lays foundation of Sheikh-ul-Aalam Boys Hostel at Zakura to be completed at a cost of Rs. 20.70 crores. * Omar Abdullah gives nod to Rs. 24 crores Heritage Street from Nawakadal to Chattabal. * The Chief Minister inaugurated 5 bridges at Kishtwar-Simthan-Anantnag road. * The Chief Minister inaugurated Rs. 7 crore water supply scheme at Leh to augment 2.5 lakh gallons per day drinking water in the system. * The Chief Minister inaugurated JKI Sales-cum-Marketing Centre of silk products of Rajbagh Silk Factory. * The Chief Minister approves restoration of Peer-e-Dastgeer (RA) Shrine at Khanyar in its heritage characteristic. * Omar Abdullah launches e-procurement in Health and Medical Education Department.

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STATE
Dy CM pays obeisance at Shiv Khori shrine
REASI, JANUARY 01- Deputy Chief Minister, Tara Chand, today visited Shiv Khori in Reasi district and paid obeisance at the holy shrine. The Deputy Chief Minister described this religios destination as one of the most revered cave shrines of the region. He said that efforts are being made by the government to develop and promote this scenic spot besides Shri Shiv Khori Shrine Board (SSKSB) has launched various projects to create and upgrade facilities for the visiting devotees. While interacting with the devotees, the Deputy Chief Minister enquired them about the facilities there and appealed them to be messengers of peace for the State. He said the number of pilgrims to the shrine is increasing day by day and is expected to touch new heights in the coming year. Tara Chand said that it is a matter of great satisfaction that the Shiv Khori shrine is emerging as the second largest pilgrimage destination after Mata Vaishno Devi. The SSKSB has taken a number of development works, which included construction of sarai, shelter sheds, bathroom and toilet facilities, adequate provision of drinking water, power supply, development of parks and gardens for the convenience of the pilgrims. Among others, the Deputy Chief Minister was accompanied by District Development Commissioner, Reasi, Nirmal Sharma and other senior officers of various departments. AKHNOOR, JANUARY 01: Minister for Health, Horticulture & Floriculture, Sham Lal Sharma, has called for social renaissance to create a healthy and harmonious society. "In the present times when crimes are overpowering the society, need of the hour is to make collective efforts to create an environment, conducive for all to live with peace and dignity, said the Minister. Addressing a large gathering at a function organized by the prominent citizens of Akhnoor on the occasion of New Year, the Minister said that "we all should voice against the crimes against women folk and work for upholding their in the society". He said the Indian ethos have always taught us to consider women as image of Goddess Durga and Laxmi and give them respect so we should follow the trend. Strongly advocating for a social change to protect and promote the age old culture and rich ethos of our pluralistic society, the

NEWS IN BOX

District Magistrate Jammu imposes section 144

JAMMU, JANUARY 01: In view of Annual Darbar Move to winter capital, District Magistrate (DM), Jammu, Sanjeev Verma in exercise of the powers vested upon him under section 144 Cr P C ordered that no processions shall be taken out by any individual or groups of individuals and no provocative slogans shall be raised by anyone in the areas on routes, Bajaj Tower Shalamar to Library Chowk, Kachi Chawani, on flyover from Police Control Room to district institute of Education and Training behind New Secretariat Jammu, on flyover from Subash Chowk (Mahesh Pura Chowk) to district institute of Education and Training, rotary behind New Secretariat to New Secretariat and Shaheedi Chowk to DC office. However, this order shall not apply to marriage and funeral processions. This order shall come into force for the period of two month, from 5TH January or till rescinded, whichever is earlier.

Sham for social renaissance to create a healthy, harmonious world

Minister for Health, Horticulture & Floriculture, Sham Lal Sharma addressing a large gathering at Akhnoor

Handicrafts awareness camp held at Doda

DODA, JANUARY 01: To create awareness among the artisans the Department of Handicrafts today organized a Handicrafts awareness camp at Doda in which a huge number of Artisans participated. During the Camp Assistant Director Handicrafts Doda Mr. G.R Dar and other officers highlighted the avenues and the schemes of the Department for the welfare of the Artisans community. During the camp artisans were made aware about the various credit facilities in detail which are being provided to them under various schemes.

Minister urged upon the people to make collective efforts for social reforms. He expressed concern degrading moral values due to the impact of westernization and stressed the need to acquaint our younger generation with our culture and traditions. He said the social evils like dowry, alcoholism and drug abuse are eating the vitals of the society and the need is to contain those in a collective manner. The Minister shared New Year's greetings with the people of his home constituency and wished them a happy and prosperous coming year. He said the

Government will take new developmental initiatives in the new years and all out efforts will be made to accomplish the on-going developmental projects in the area. Member Parliament, Madan Lal Sharma, also greeted the people on this auspicious occasion and hoped the coming year will further add to the peace, progress and prosperity in the state. Sharma urged upon the State Government to abolish VAT on CSD canteen goods to facilitate the ex-servicemen and their families. He said the large number of ex-servicemen and their families

have been demanding for scrapping this tax since its imposition and State Government should resolve this issue on humanitarian grounds. Vice Chairman, OBC Advisory Board, Master Kuldeep Verma, Vice Chairman, Gujjar & Bakerwals Advisory Board, Ch. Bashir Ahmed Naz, MLC Ravinder Sharma also extended the new year's greetings to the people. Large number of people from every nook and corner of Akhnoor and Khour blocks, besides Sarpanchs/Panchs, prominent citizens and heads of various departments were present on the occasion.

MLA Kishtwar inaugurates five training centres under SCA-TSP

KISHTWAR, JANUARY 01The Department of Social Welfare, Kishtwar has established five training centres in villages Kawar, Cherji, Padhyarna, Pollar and Chicha of Nagseni Block in Kishtwar district under the SCATSP (Special Central Assistance for Tribal Sub Plan )where the female candidates of STCategory shall be given training in the trade of tailoring and knitting. MLA Kishtwar, Sajad Ahamad Kichloo inaugurated these centres and said that this was a major steps towards making the women of the area self reliant .He said that this programme launched by the Government specially aims at providing opportunities to the women belonging to the ST category to learn skills and become self dependent .He asked the people to come forward for availing the benefits of such welfare schemes and assured that more funds will be provided to cover more villages under this scheme. District Social welfare Officer, Prem Singh Chib gave a detailed account of various schemes of the social welfare Department and the purpose of such vocational courses. He asked the people of the area to take benefit of these schemes especially Contributory Social Security Scheme (CSSS) under which a beneficiary has to deposit Rs 200 on quarterly basis in his recurring account in which the department shall also deposit Rs 300 quarterly for five years provided that the annual income of the beneficiary does not exceed Rs 48000/ and also under this scheme beneficiary can withdraw the amount with interest after five years or can continue it for 10 years. The sarpanches of the Panchayats, Kwar, Bhagna, Cherji, Chicha, Bhatan Dimji, and panches also attended the function. The public of these villages appreciated the establishment of these training centers.

Republic day arrangements reviewed at Ramban

RAMBAN, JANUARY 01- A meeting was convened under the Chairmanship of District Development Commissioner, Ramban, Shabir Ahmad in which arrangements for celebration of Republic day 2013 were discussed. The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner, Ramban, B.A Khan, Assistant Commissioner Revenue, Ramban, Ghan Sham Singh, Commandant IR9th Bn., V.K Bali, Chief Medical Officer, Ramban, Chief Education Officer, Ramban, and other District/Sectoral Officers, besides officers from Police, Traffic police. It was decided that the main function of the Republic day will be held at District Police Line Ramban in which 18 contingents of school children, NCC, Police, IRP, and Forest Protection Force will participate in the march past, The Departments like PWD, PDD, PHE, Health, Education etc were also directed to work in close coordination to ensure timely arrangements for making the function a success. It was also decided that all Government Office buildings and venue of the function will be illuminated on the occasion. Necessary direction was issued to the police for making adequate security arrangements.

Junior Assistant caught red handed

SRINAGAR, JANUARY 01: State Vigilance Organization caught red handed Abdul Qayoom Khan, S/o Ghulam Mohammad Khan, R/o Nambla Uri, Junior Assistant SDM Office Uri, while demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs. 5000 from the complainant, Mr. Lal Din S/o Attah Mohammad R/o Balkote Tehsil Uri. Mr. Lal Din lodged a written complaint with SP Vigilance Organization Kashmir stating therein that his land under Khasra No: 144/Min in which walnut trees were existing came under road, being constructed under PMGSY programme at Balkote Uri. That 12 number of walnut trees were cut down from my land and an amount of Rs. 1,23,000/- has been estimated and bill prepared by the concerned department as compensation of these trees. The compensation papers are lying in SDM office, Uri. In order to process/release the said amount Junior Assistant Abdul Qayoom of SDM office Uri demanded illegal gratification of Rs. 5000 from the complainant. On the basis of said complainant, Case FIR No: 1/2012 u/s section 5 (2) PC Act r/w section 161 RPC P/S Vigilance Organization Kashmir was registered and investigation taken up. During investigation the officials of State Vigilance Organization organized a trap and accused Abdul Qayoom Khan, Junior Assistant, SDM Office, Uri was caught red handed while demanding and accepting phenolphthalein dusted amount of Rs. 5000 from the complainant in the presence of independent witness. The tainted bride money was recovered and the accused taken into custody for further investigations.

MLA Kishtwar, Sajad Ahamad Kichloo inaugurating Special Central Assistance for Tribal Sub Plan at Kishtwar.

Nasir releases Calendar 2013 of Bhaderwah Development Authority

JAMMU, JANUARY 01 - The calendar for the year 2013, published by Bhaderwah Tourism Development Authority, was released by the Minister of State for Tourism & Home, Mr. Nasir Aslam Wani, here today. The calendar showcases the vast potential of Bhaderwah as a tourism destination. Chief Executive Officer, BDA, Mr. Angrez Singh Rana, was present on the occasion.

He said that with establishment of these training centers the female candidates of the ST category shall not only get training but they shall also be given stipend besides employment to the trained candidates who shall work as trainers. He also asked the people to take benefit of various schemes of

Social Welfare Department like old age pension, widow pension, disability pension, scholarship to militancy victims, National family benefit scheme. He further asked the Sarpanches and Panches to work for the welfare of the weaker sections and take active part in implementing the various schemes

Programme under RMSA reviewed in Kathua

KATHUA, JAN 01- To review the progress on account of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme, RMSA in the district a meeting was held under the chairmanship of Hilal Ahmed, State Project Director, RMSA, J&K State in the conference Hall of Distt. Development Commissioner, Kathua. The District Development Commissioner, Kathua, Ms, Zahida Khan was also present in the meeting. CEO, Kathua welcomed gave a detailed account of the achievements made under RMSA in the district since the launch of the programme. State Project Director, RMSA took stock of the various ongoing projects taken up by SE, PWD(R&B) Jammu-Kathua Circle, Jammu. State Project Director, RMSA enjoined upon all the concerned to properly utilize the funds released under scheme so that the objective of the scheme are achieved and the benefits reaches the students. Manoj Kapoor, Chief Planning Officer, Kathua, P.L. Bhushan, Superintending Engineer, PWD (R&B) Jammu-Kathua Circle, Jammu, J.K Sudan, Chief Education Officer, Kathua, K.S Natheyal, Executive Engineer, PWD(R&B) Division, Kathua, Sh. Parshotam Kumar, Executive Engineer, PWD(R&B) Division, Basohli, Principal, DIET Basohli, Principals/Headmasters of HSSs/HSs of District Kathua and representatives of some Zonal Education Officers were present in the meeting.

Training camp for promoting Floriculture held

JAMMU, JANUARY 01Department of Floriculture, Jammu organized a training programme for Sarpanchs, Panches & progressive farmers at Sai Kalan R.S Pura Jammu to provide them the technical knowledge and information about various centrally sponsored schemes for promotion of commercial floriculture. During the program Dy. Director Floriculture R.S Bali appealed the farmers to take full benefits of training programme and get information about various centrally and state sponsored schemes regarding floriculture sector. President Flower Growers Association Tajinder Singh said that Government has been providing best incentives under centrally sponsored schemes and it is a golden time for farmers to diversify from traditional crops to profitable cash crops and avail the benefits from these schemes. During the training session, Dr Davinder Sharma Assistant professor SUKAST (J) gave presentation on systematic pest management.

Legislators contribute Rs. 75 lakhs for streamlining Power distribution system

KARGIL, JANUARY 01- In order to streamline the power distribution system in district Kargil about Rs. 75 lakh are being spent to strengthen the Power Receiving Stations. These funds have been contributed by the three legislators of the district. These include the Minister for CAPD and Transport, Mr. Qamar Ali Akhoon, MLA Zanaskar, Mr. Feroz Ahmed Khan and MLC Aga Syed Ahmed Rizvi, each contributing Rs. 25 lakhs out of their Constituency Development Funds (CDF). This step has been taken to improve power situation in the district during the winter.

Seminar on save girl child at Chrar-i-Sharief

BUDGAM, JANUARY 01- In connection with the save girl child week, an impressive seminar was organized by the Block Medical office at historic town Chrar-iSharief, the heavenly abode of revered Sofi saint, Hazrat Sheikh Noor-ud-Din Wali (RA), which was attended by a large number of senior citizens, school students, doctors, Para-medical staff, ASHA workers and prominent religious preachers. The speakers mostly students, ASHA workers and religious leaders on this occasion, urged upon the need for creating wide awareness among the masses about the sin of female feticide and called for strict implementation of P&NVA Act. It was stressed to impart moral education to the student right from the primary stage to develop a society free from social evils. Maulana Ikhlaq of Jama-i-Masjid, in his sermon, cautioned the people about the gender discrimination and declining malefemale ratio adding that if steps against this evil trend are not taken right now, the whole society would get engulfed with a ferocious volcano in which all the moral and spiritual values will get destroyed and push the entire humanity back into the wild age. Later, the first, second and third winner of the seminar were given Rs. 1000/, Rs. 700/ and Rs. 500/ which was followed by road show.

Altaf reviews working of SFC

JAMMU, JANUARY 01: The Jammu and Kashmir State Forest Corporation (SFC) is poised to achieve the target of extracting 30 lakh Cubic Feet (Cft) Timber during this financial year, which is expected to fetch the Corporation about Rs 105 crore. The information was given at a review meeting of the Corporation with the Minister for Forests and Environment, Mian Altaf Ahmed in the chair. The meeting was informed that the SFC has set a target of extracting about 30 lakh cft timber and transportation upto sale depot, which shall be achieved in full. The Corporation has set a target to generate revenue of around Rs 105 crores upto March 2012-13 by selling 20 lakh cft timber, the meeting informed further. Addressing the meeting, the Minister underscored the need to ensure distribution of timber to the people in time and asked the forest department to allot requisite quantity of timber to SFC in the month of April every year so that its extraction was completed as early as possible. Mian Altaf said that the first and foremost duty of the SFC was to meet the timber demand of the local consumers adding that it must be ensured that only genuine people are given timber as per the set norms and procedures. He asked the senior officers of the Corporation to gear up its men and machinery and work in close coordination to make it more profitable. He also called for taking regular review of the achievement of targets at different levels to improve the profitibility of the Corporation and making its working more transparent.

State recorded unprecedented development in last 4 years: Bhalla

JAMMU, JANUARY 01Minister for Revenue, Relief and Rehabilitation Mr. Raman Bhalla has said that the Government was committed to make available all basic amenities in every corner of the State, adding that liberal funding was being provided to the departments to meet the development related demands of the people. The Minister was interacting with the people at a Public Grievances Redressal Camp held at Upper Gaddigarh, here today. Mr. Bhalla said that the coalition Government was working under a comprehensive plan to develop modern line infrastructure facilities across the state. He said that there was no constraint of funds under development sectors like R&B, PHE, ERA, PDD, Health, Education and other sectors . The Minister said that unprecedented development has been witnessed across the State during four year tenure of the present Government adding that many new projects were in pipeline to upgrade the living standard of the people. Mr. Bhalla said that instructions have been issued to concerned departments to complete all the new projects being executed in their jurisdictions and make optimum use of funds. He urged the people to personally monitor the development works being executed in their respective areas. The Minister assured the inhabitants that their remaining genuine developmental demands would also be fulfilled on priority basis. Listing new projects sanctioned for his home constituency Gandhi Nagar, Mr. Bhalla said that Health Ministry has approved Rs. 71 crore for construction of 6storey Maternity hospital within Gandhi Nagar hospital premises. He said that the hospital would be constructed with all facilities at par with SMGS hospital. He said to ease rush in the city and Gandhi Nagar hospitals the Government has also approved Rs. 4.77 crore for construction of Primary Health Centre at Bhore Camp and Lower Gaddigarh, besides NS Urban Health Centre at Trikuta Nagar. Later, several deputations of refugees of 1947, 1965 and 1971 met the Minister and projected their problems. The Minister gave a patient hearing and said that central and state Governments were fully aware of the hardships faced by the refugees and were keen to resolve all their issues in one go. He said that for this purpose, a delegation of the J&K Ministers met Prime Minister, UPA chairperson and Home Minister and submitted a proposal demanding Rs. 1775 crore for one time settlement of the refugees. Mr. Bhalla said the central Government, headed by Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, has already released Rs. 49 crore for distribution of land deficiency compensation among the refugees, adding that the relief amounting to Rs. 1.50 lakh to each family has been distributed by arranging public grievances camp across the State. He said about 30 crore out of 49 crore has been disbursed among the affected families till date. Mr. Bhalla called upon the left out families to approach the Revenue Officers and fulfill required formalities to avail the relief. The Minister informed that most of the refugee colonies were being regularized under 254-C Revenue Act, adding that these areas would be developed on modern lines by providing all basic amenities at par with urban pockets.

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EDITORIAL

Gaza Attack: Dress Rehearsal for Iran

puters in Saudi and Qatari oil facilities, disrupting energy production. These two countries are close allies of the US. The US defence secretary, Leon Panetta, has admitted that the attack on the Saudi computer systems was a very sophisticated one though he took care not to blame Teheran directly. The presence of a few Iranian made rockets and drones in Israel's immediate neighbourhood have prompted senior Israeli officials and politicians to once again demand "a big bang" military strike against Iran. Israeli officials have conceded that the Hamas militia had developed its own weapons industry, though they claim that they have done so with Iranian help. David Rothkopf, a former national security official under Bill Clinton and having close connections with the Obama administration, recently wrote an article that appeared in the influential foreignpolicy.com website, claiming that Israel and the US were actively considering a joint "surgical strike" against Iran's uranium enrichment facilities. Reports in the American and Israeli media described the latest military assault onGaza as "a dress rehearsal" for the next war against Lebanon and a military assault on Iran. SECRET FORMS OF WARFARE AGAINST IRAN Israel has already blamed Iran and Hezbollah for the terror attacks targeting Israeli civilians and diplomats this year in Sofia, Tbilisi,Bangkok and Delhi and had said that it was contemplating military action against Teheran. Despite the repeated assertions of the Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, that there is "rock solid" evidence implicating Hezbollah and Iran in the terror attacks, the Israeli authorities have so far not been able to provide any proof to the international investigating agencies. The US Republican Senator, Lindsay Graham, has said that he is confident of getting a resolution passed in the US Congress before the year ends that would give the US president broad authority to take military action if Iran does not compromise on its nuclear programme. Panetta's predecessor as defence secretary, Robert Gates, has warned that any American or Israeli attack on Iran would have disastrous consequences. Speaking in the first week of October, he said that neither of the countries had the capability of wiping our Iran's nuclear capability. He warned that an attack "would make a nuclear-armed Iran inevitable." Gates also emphasised that the US should make it clear to Israeli leaders that "they don't have a blank cheque to take action that could do grave harm toAmerica's vital interests." But as the cyber attacks illustrate, secret forms of warfare are already going on between US/Israel and Iran and its allies in the region. The draconian economic sanctions imposed by the West on Iran can also be viewed as another form of warfare. On October 15, the European Union agreed to implement a further set of sanctions aimed at further crippling the Iranian economy. The current sanctions on Iran have been described as the harshest against any country imposed since the creation of the UN. The Iranian media has reported that the country is already facing severe shortages of essential medicines that have to be imported. Fatemeh Hashemi, the head of Iran's Charity Institute for Special Diseases, has said that six million Iranians suffering from serious ailments are finding it difficult to get their daily medicines and life saving drugs. He said that the shortage mainly affects patients suffering from diseases like cancer and thalasesemia and those needing dialysis. Runaway inflation coupled with the devaluation of the Iranian currency has mainly affected the poor. The Israeli finance minister, Yuval Stenitz, recently boasted that the sanctions were driving the Iranian economy towards collapse. The outgoing US secretary of state, Hillary Clinton, endorsed this view but said that the situation could be rectified if the Iranian government would work with the international community in "a sincere manner." BARBARIC SANCTIONS CUM SUBVERSIONS The Iranian leadership has been crying from the rooftops that it is not interested in acquiring a nuclear weapon or in the trappings of a nuclear power. In a recent speech, the US defence secretary had admitted that based on US intelligence estimates, Iran has not finalised a decision to produce a nuclear weapon. Iran's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, described the economic sanctions on Iran as "barbaric" and akin to a war against his country. "The West is angry and they have used Iran's nuclear energy programme as a pretext (to impose sanctions). They claim that they will lift sanctions if Iran backs down on its right to nuclear energy. They are lying. Out of spite and revenge, they decide to impose illogical sanctions against Iran," Ayatollah Khamenei said in a recent speech. Alongside the sanctions, the West is also trying to prop up small separatist groups in areas dominated by ethnic non-Persian minorities in Iran. Kurds, Azeris and the Arab populations in the oil rich province of Khuzestan are being targeted for subversion. Senior Israeli officials like the former Mossad chief, Meir Dagan have been openly saying that one way of confronting Iran is to stir up ethnic strife and smash the concept of a collective Iranian identity. The Baluchi terrorist group Jundallah till recently used Pakistanas a base to launch terrorist attack in Iran. The American media reported that Israeli agents posed as CIA officers in order to recruit ethnic Baluchis affiliated to the Jundallah in the Iranian provinces of Baluchestan and Sistan. A recent report filed by the Federation of American Scientists, a bipartisan body, has predicted that in case Washington escalates its confrontation with Iran, the world economy would lose up to 6.4 trillion dollars in the first three months itself. Senior officials in the Obama administration have aired many scenarios they may have in store for Iran. These include a military blockade of the Persian Gulf to bar the exports of Iranian oil. President Barack Obama has never ruled out the military option against Iran. Most oil industry experts are of the view that if open military hostilities break out in the Gulf, the price of oil will shoot up to 200 dollars a barrel. But with the US elections over, better sense seems to be prevailing in Washington. The American media has reported that the US andIran "have agreed in principle for the first time" to open direct negotiations. Both sides have not yet openly confirmed the news. Iranhas been insisting for many years that it wants direct talks with the US. Teheran has also indicated that it is willing to make compromises if the West recognises the country's fundamental right to nuclear enrichment. Iran is a signatory of the nonproliferation treaty (NPT). All NPT members have a right to nuclear enrichment for peaceful purposes.

fter months of sabre rattling against Iran, it was finally the hapless Gaza that was targeted by the Israeli defence forces (IDF). The ability of the Hamas fighters to retaliate and fire rockets into Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, piercing the much vaunted "Iron Dome" anti missile system put in place with American help, has rattled the Israeli military establishment. They are attributing Hamas's improved prowess in missile technology to help from Iran. Israeli authorities claim that many of the missiles which reached their capital were Fajr-5 rockets supplied by Iran to Hamas. A few weeks before the latest Israeli military assault on Gaza, the Israeli military and political establishment got another shock when a drone launched from Lebanon successfully penetrated Israeli airspace and flew over the facility which houses the high security Dimona nuclear reactor. SETBACKS TO US-ISRAEL Sheikh Hassan Nasrallah, leader of the Lebanese resistance group Hezbollah, subsequently claimed that it was his group which successfully launched the reconnaissance drone into Israel. The drone was shot down in the vicinity of the Dimona reactor by an Israeli jet after it had flown hundreds of kilometres into Israeli territory. The Hezbollah leader said that the drone had captured footage of sensitive Israeli security facilities, including the Dimona facility. Hezbollah has acknowledged that the drones they used originated from Iran and claimed the ability to deploy many more drones, including armed ones, at short notice. On their part, the West andIsrael are busy trying to effect regime change in Syria, Hezbollah's strongest backer along with Iran. Hezbollah, it seems, wants to make a point that it can confront Israel on its own now. It was only Israel and the US that till recently used their drone technology for military purposes in the region. Now their monopoly has been broken. Similarly, the US and Israel had used the malicious "Stuxnet" computer worm to wreak havoc on Iran's nuclear enrichment activity at the Natanz reactor facility in 2010. Stuxnet was part of an US-Israeli covert programme to wage increasingly sophisticated attacks on Iran's industrial and scientific infrastructure. Now according to reports in the western media, hackers whose origins are unclear have retaliated by severely damaging com-

Revamp the laws, reform the police

arious politicians including those at the very top of the ruling UPA have promised that the death of the victim who was raped and tortured in a moving bus in Delhi on December 16 will not be allowed to go in vain. If that indeed is a serious resolution, then the Centre must take certain immediate measures which will bring about effective changes in a system that not only allows such crimes to take place but also does not provide enough deterrent punishment promptly. Unfortunately, besides establishing various committees, the Congress-led Government has done nothing to instill any optimism among the people that it is planning any quick action following the sordid episode. If reports that have appeared in a section of the media are correct, then the Government will have before it by February a report on the proposed changes in the laws directed at effectively tackling crimes against women, especially sexual assaults. It means that the report will then be discussed and a firm view will be taken thereafter. We have no idea how long the process is going to take. It is amazing that the Government should have adopted this circuitous route to effect changes that ought to have happened yesterday, and rejected the suggestion made by the Opposition that a special session of Parliament should be convened at the earliest to discuss and finalise the various changes required in a time-bound fashion. It's still not late for the UPA to heed the Opposition's suggestion, because it is only in Parliament that a holistic view of the prevailing laws dealing with various kinds of crimes against women and their amendment can be taken and given effect to. The first and foremost aspect which should be discussed and implemented is a change in Section 376 of the Indian Penal Code to provide for death sentence to persons convicted of rape. Since the courts give the death sentence in the rarest of rare cases already for a variety of other crimes, the same principle can be applied in the case of rape too. Additionally, the minimum sentence of seven years, which exists presently for convicts of rape, must be enhanced. Having said that, it must be remembered that severity of punishment alone will not prove to be a good enough deterrent; it must be accompanied by the certainty of punishment. Several statistics have of late come into the public domain that demonstrate the abysmally low rate of convictions in instances of rape. According to one such report, there has been just one conviction out of 600 rape cases reported to Delhi Police in 2012. Equally dismal is the fact that the few cases which do end in verdicts do so after several years and even decades of tortuous journey. This is not the story of Delhi alone, but of the country as a whole. Therefore, the situation calls for the early establishment of fast track courts to try cases of sexual crimes against women across the country. Unfortunately, there has been no move on the UPA regime's part so far to make that move, although it has has scrambled to do so in Delhi after the December 16 incident. Even here, the Delhi High Court was swifter, taking suo motu cognisance of the December 16 incident and announcing the establishment of a fast track court to handle the case.

STATE WATCH

ANDHRA PRADESH No New Year celebrations for Andhra governor, chief minister
HYDERABAD: Andhra Pradesh Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan and Chief Minister N. Kiran Kumar Reddy are staying away from New Year celebrations in view of the gang-rape and death of a young woman in Delhi. Separate statements issued by their offices said they would not take part in any celebrations. The governor and the chief minister also decided not to receive any New Year greetings in person. "The usual exchange of greetings with members of the civil society has been cancelled at Raj Bhavan as the unfortunate incident, Chief Minister N. Kiran Kumar Reddy personally decided not to take part in any New Year celebrations," said a statement from the chief minister's office. Leader of Opposition and Telugu Desam Party (TDP) chief N. Chandrababu Naidu too declared he would not celebrate the New Year. Union Tourism Minister K. Chiranjeevi also made a similar announcement.

GUJARAT 12 arrested for gambling on IIMAhmedabad campus

AHEMDABAD: Satellite police arrested 12 persons for gambling in staff quarters during a raid at the residential campus of Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA). Investigation revealed that all of them either work as contract employees or peons at the old IIMA campus. On Sunday at around 11pm, P D Parmar, police subinspector of Satellite, received a tip-off regarding gambling activity at staff quarters for sweepers and peons at the old campus of IIMA. Parmar and his men raided the house of one Vanaji Parmar in the staff quarters and busted the activity. The arrested include Kaushik Sonria, 30, Jayesh Chaudhari, 34, Naresh Chaudhari, 32, Tulsi Solanki, 25, Nitin Vaghela, 22, Rakesh Chaudhari, 33, Chirag Bundela, 22, Jayesh Solanki, 25, Janak Soneria, 22, Narendra Patel, 29, Jayendra Parmar, 23, and Raju Vaghela, 50.Vanaji, who works as a peon at IIMA, managed to flee from his house. Cops recovered Rs19,300 cash and 14 mobile phones from these gamblers. Investigation by Satellite police revealed that Raju Vaghela too has been working as a permanent peon with IIMA for last 30 years. However, he initially claimed that he was just another contract employee. The remaining work as sweepers and cleaning staff at IIMA on contract basis. All of them live in the IIMA staff quarters, as their family members or parents work as permanent employees there.

RAJASTHAN

195 people caught for drunken driving on New Year's eve in Jaipur
JAIPUR: 195 people, most of them youths, were caught here for driving under the influence of alcohol on New Year eve, police said on Tuesday. Many of them were partygoers and had consumed liquor during New Year celebrations. "The number is much higher than routine days. We started a special campaign to deter drunken driving some time back which considerably had a good impact," DCP Traffic Lata Manoj Kumar said. "195 drunk drivers were caught at different places and their vehicles were seized. 106 were penalised for high speed and 164 drivers were caught without helmets," she said. Special arrangements were in place to check violation of traffic last night and additional policemen were deployed. The officer said that no major untoward incident occurred during the celebrations.

homage to the death of the 23-year-old whose life was cut short by a heinous incident at Delhi," a statement from the Raj Bhavan said. "In view of the sad demise of the Delhi girl following

PUNJAB Punjab, Haryana reel under dense fog, intense cold

CHANDIGARH: Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh today continued to reel under dense fog and intense cold wave crippling normal life, with air, rail and road traffic going haywire in the region due to reduced visibility. A thick blanket of fog enveloped the entire region affecting all modes of traffic, officials said here. Most of the flights remained grounded at Chandigarh airport and several trains passing through the region, including Howrah express, Malwa express, Tata Moori, Barmer express and Shan-e-Punjab were running hours behind schedule, they said. The minimum temperatures hovered between one degree Celsius above normal to four notches below normal in most parts of Punjab and Haryana, the Met office said here. Narnaul was the coldest place in the region recording a low of 0.7 degrees Celsius, four notches below normal. Bhiwani settled at a low of three degrees, while the minimum at Karnal was 4.4 degree Celsius, three notches below normal. Hisar braved a low of 4.8 degree Celsius followed by 5.2 degrees at Amritsar, two notches above normal, 5.9 degrees at Patiala and 6.3 degrees temperature at Ambala. Chandigarh had a low of 6.9 degree Celsius, two notches above normal, followed by seven degree Celsius temperature at Ludhiana. Tripping of power and low pressure water supply compounded the problems of people in the region. The Met has forecast dry weather in the region during the next two days with foggy conditions prevailing and minimum temperature plummeting in most parts of Punjab and Haryana.

Maoists to Punish Accused of Molestation Charges in Manipur

MANIPUR: Militant outfit Maoist Communist Party Manipur has said it will give "befitting punishment" to three youths who allegedly molested a 16-year-old school girl when she was returning to her village to celebrate Christmas in Senapati hill district of Manipur on December 24. An MCPM statement, dated December 27 and made available to the press today, said the crime committed by the three youths was "unpardonable" as their act was not only outrageous but was also intended to drive a wedge between the indigenous people of the hill and valley in Manipur. Official sources said three youths - Angom Chandra, Khaidem Kunjo and Tensubam Amitkumar - all aged 21, were arrested for allegedly molesting a girl at Napet Palli area in Imphal east district while the victim, along with friends, was returning to their village, Risophung, near Napet Palli, in Senapati district on December 24. Police said the three, who offered to escort the girl posing as members of a militant outfit, were now in Lamlai police station for further investigation. Several social organisations, including All Manipur Students Union (AMSU), United Committee Manipur (UCM) and International Peace and Solidarity Advancement (IPSA), strongly condemned the incident and demanded exemplary punishment to the three. The organisations, in separate statements, said the state was facing a series of agitations, including general strike by several social organisations against the alleged molestation of a Manipuri film actress by a Naga militant of NSCN-IM, identified as Livingstone Anal, in public view during a musical concert at Chandel district on December 18 and the December 24 incident had added fuel to the fire. Police viewed the threat by MSCP 'very seriously' as it may mean shooting the accused to death by the militants. Steps were being taken to speed up the investigation in the case to prosecute the three as per provisions of the law, police said.

MANIPUR

HIMACHAL PRADESH Panels to monitor women atrocity cases in Himachal

SHIMLA: The Himachal Pradesh government has decided to set up state and district-level committees to review progress of all cases of crime against women, an official said Tuesday. The official said that Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh had ordered the setting up of a state-level committee headed by the chief secretary and district-level committees headed by deputy commissioners to review all such cases of atrocities on women and action taken by authorities. The state committee will meet quarterly while the district panels will meet every month. Police have also been asked to post at least one woman constable at every police station and police post. The decisions were taken at the chief minister's meeting with top functionaries here Monday. "Atrocities on women and girls will have zero tolerance and police will have to ensure registration of first information reports and speedy trial," Virbhadra Singh said. Meanwhile, death of the Delhi gang-rape victim seemed to have no effect on the scale of New Year revelry in the state.

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STUDENT AGE WEDESDAY, JANUARY 2, 2013

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HISTORY OF NEW YEAR

in 153 B.C., began to observe January 1 as the beginning of the New Year. Before this, theRomansobserved their new year in late March (probably March 15 or March 25, the date of the Vernal Equinox). But with the change of Roman emperors, the Roman calendar was changed many times because every emperor wanted to set the calendar in his own way. Then in 46 BC, Julius Caesar established the Julian Calendar which again established January 1 as the Roman New Year. From this time, the Romans started to celebrate their New Year's Day on January 1. But in Europe of the Middle Ages, the early Catholic Church disapproved the New Year festivities saying these were against the Christian tradition. In 567 AD, the Council of Tours abolished January 1 as the beginning of the year. At various times and in various places throughout m e d i e v a l Christian Europe, the new year began to be celebrated on various dates like Dec. 25 (the birth of Jesus); March 1; March 25 (the Feast of the Annunciation) or during Easter. Then in 1582, Pope Gregory XIII established the Gregorian calendar to correct an error in the Julian calendar. This reform again restored the practice of observing New Year's Day on January 1. Although most Catholic countries adopted the Gregorian calendar almost immediately, it was only gradually adopted among Protestant countries. You will probably be surprised to know that January 1 has been celebrated as a holiday by the Western nations for only about the past 400 years. Germany took up the new tradition in 1700, Britain in 1752 and

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ew Year celebrations are believed to have first originated in ancient Babylon about 4000 years ago. Around 2000 BC, the Babylonians started the tradition of beginning their New Year with the first New Moon after the Vernal Equinox(first day of spring) in mid-March. Today, we observe our New Year for only a day, but the Babylonian New Year celebrations lasted for eleven days. And how grand their celebrations were! Our grandest New Year festivities are nothing compared to how they observed their New Year. It was the Romans who,

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Sweden in 1753. The Oriental countries, through the influence of religious groups such as the Hindus, Taoists, Buddhists and Muslims looked upon the new Calendar as the Christian Calendar, but also adopted it as their official one. Japan embraced it in 1873 and China in 1912. The orthodox eastern nations adopted it even later, in 1924 and 1927, Russia took it twice - first in 1918 and again in 1924, after trying out its own calendars. Today, with feasts, parades, resolutions, fireworks, partying and gettogethers, the New Year is celebrated all over the world on January 1.

Hat Craft
enough to fit the wearer's head). Cut it out using the craft knife. 4. Measure the diameterof the brim. Cut another circle of the poster board measuring about 6 inches larger for the crown. 5. Place the needle of the compass along the scale of the ruler. Drag the pencil 3 inches away from the needle. 6. Now pin the needle. Draw the 6 inches diameter circle by rotating the pencil. 7. Cut a slit from the edge into the center, after folding this circle into a cone shape to fit inside the brim. Staplethe conein position where the cut ends of the poster board overlaps. 8. Tape the coneto the brim on the inside.

FAMOUS LEADERS: VITHALBHAI PATEL

Born On: September 27, 1873 Born In: Nadiad, Gujarat Died On: October 22, 1933 Career: Freedom Fighter, Legislator Nationality: Indian Mahatma Gandhi was the soul of the Indian political movement. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel was its strength and Vithalbhai Patel was its character. Although Vithalbhai is a lesser known politician in the Indian freedom struggle than his brother Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, popularly known as the "Iron Man of India", he, nevertheless, surely holds a great role and an eminent position in the entire freedom movement. By entering into politics much before his renowned brother, Vithalbhai established the Swaraj Party that aimed at forming self-government and achieving freedom for the Indian people from the British Raj. He strongly opposed Mahatma Gandhi's decision to abandon the NonCooperation Movement with the occurrence of the Chauri Chaura tragedy. Early Life Vithalbhai Jhaverbhai Patel was born as the third of the five Patel brothers in Nadiad district in the Indian state of Gujarat. He was four years elder to Vallabhbhai Patel, a prominent Indian freedom fighter. Being raised and brought up in Karamsad, he the entire study course. Vithalbhai studied at the Middle Temple Inn in London and completed the 36-month course in just 30, thereby appearing as the topper of his class. He came back to India in 1913 and started working as a barrister in courts of Bombay and Ahmedabad. While his professional life was moving on smoothly, he met with a personal crises in 1915 when his wife died, leaving him a widower for the rest of his life. Political Career Much before Vallabhbhai Patel could enter politics, Vithalbhai got into the political world and became a prominent name in the Indian independence movement. He managed to win a seat in Bombay Legislative Council with the help of a band of supporters. Though the body did not have any real functions, Vithalbhai tried working hard for one year but failed to achieve anything for national independence, self-government, or public welfare. After the incident of Chauri Chaura and the end of Non-cooperation Movement in 1922, Vithalbhai left Congress and established his own party called Swaraj Party, along with Chittaranjan Das and Motilal Nehru. The basic aim of the party was to enter the councils and abolish the government run by the British. However, the party could get success in dividing the Congress and later itself as well. He became popular amongst the masses through his oratorical and witty speeches. Thereafter, he was elected to the Central Legislative Assembly in 1923 and later in 1925, became the Assembly's president. Despite not completely in sync with Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy and practices, Vithalbhai joined Congress and began his struggle for India's independence. He did not receive major support from any specific region, but still managed to get popular and influence people with this fiery and powerful speeches and articles published in the newspapers. Later Years In 1929, several supporters of the Government of India made attempts to remove Vithalbhai from the presidentship of Imperial Legislative Assembly, or Central Legislative Assembly, but were stopped by the Viceroy Lord Irwin who was trying to win the support of many important nationalists. On failing to do so, Gandhi launched the Civil Disobedience Movement in 1930 resulting in Vithalbhai resigning from his the Central Legislative Assembly on the pretext of support the movement. He declared Purna Swaraj (complete independence) and re-entered Congress. For this, he was even imprisoned but was released in 1931 due to his declining health. For the same, he traveled to Europe to get himself medically treated. With the end of Salt Satyagraha, Vithalbhai yet again stood against Gandhi and joined Subhas Chandra Bose. Both met in Vienna in 1933 when Bose was released from Bhowali Sanitorium and set to Vienna for treatment, while Vithalbhai also went to Vienna to get himself treated. Sharing similar political views and desire for India's freedom, both got closer to each other and traveled extensively throughout Europe gathering funds and political support. Death While touring Europe, Bose started showing improvement in his health, but Vithalbhai started declining further. On finding his immense support for the political work, Vithalbhai handed over the residual part of his property amounting to Rs. 1, 20,000 to Bose considering that the latter had no private means to earn nor would he receive a single penny from Congress. Vithalbhai passed away on October 22, 1933 in Geneva, Switzerland. His body was brought back to India and cremated in Bombay on November 10. He was 60 years old.

Materials needed: 1) Poster board, 2) Pair of compasses (the one in your geometry box) 3) Scissors 4) Craft knife 5)Cutting mat 6)Stapler 7) Paper adhesive

Instructions: 1. On a posterboard sheet, draw a circle large enough for the brim ofthe hat. 2. Cut out the circle finely using scissors. Trim the rough edges for a smooth finish. 3. Inside this circle, draw a secondcircle shape(large

FUN TIME
1. Ek dost dusre dost se: "Kya, tumne jhoot pakarne wali machine dekhi hai? Doosra dost: Deki nahi mere paas mein hai! Are maine to usse shadi ki hai." 2. A zookeeper approaches three boys standing near the lion's cage and asks them their names and what they're up to. The first boy says, "My name's Tommy and I was trying to feed peanuts to the lions." The second boy says, "My name's Billy and I was trying to feed peanuts to the lions." The third boy says, "My name is Peanuts." 3. Aman bought a car by bank loan. But he did not pay loan amount. So they took the car from him. After seeing that the man is thinking, "If I knew before, than I would have taken a loan for my marriage also. 4. Phone Call for Sehwag : Indian Team Manager : "Hello"(over Phone) Wife : "Can I talk to Sehwag, this is his wife." Indian Team Manager: "Sorry, he is just going to bat" Wife: "No P r o b l e m Manager, I will Hold on". 5. The girl asked to the boy, "Are you sure you love me and no one else?" The boy replied, "Dead sure, I have checked the whole list again yesterday." 6. A rich man needed blood for his heart surgery. He got it from a poor Bania. The rich man gave him 5 million dollars. Once again the rich man needed blood forsurgery. Bania was more than happy to donated blood again. This time, the rich just gave him a Cadburyes Chocolate. Bania asked the reason. The rich man now replied: "Now I also have Bania's blood in my body."

attained self education at Nadiad and Bombay. To earn his education and living, he worked as a pleader, or junior lawyer, at Godhra and Borsad. He was married off to a girl from Diwaliba village at a very young age. Following his footsteps, his younger brother Vallabhbhai Patel also educated himself and worked as a pleader. Since both were ambitious, they dreamt to study in England. To fulfill his dream, Vallabhbhai Patel had accumulated enough money and ordered for his passport and ticket to England. However, the parcel delivered by the postman was addressed to "Mr. V.J. Patel, Pleader". Though the parcel was meant for Vallabhbhai Patel, but Vithalbhai insisted on traveling on his passport and tickets on the pretext of preventing social criticism of an elder brother following the lead of the younger one. Left with no option and considering it to be his fate, Vallabhbhai let his elder brother travel to England. Additionally, he even paid for his stay during

BE HUMAN
Contd... e started meeting the Vilagers and started preaching about both the Religions.He went to Muslim People and Informed them what Bhagvat Gita is all about.He then started visiing Hindus and explained what is written in Khuran.He Started Awaking People About Humanity how human being can help human being in their bad time.He taught people that we can not differentiate people by Caste or Creed they are know by what kind of Human they are.People started understanding the thought of Maulana and Apreciated him for the good deed what he is doing.People Started following him and stayed united.Muslim Participated in Diwali and Hindus Participated in Eid.Emperor came to know about Maulana making people united in Village.He told Soldiers to bring Maulana to his Palace.Maulana came to Palace and Emperor Punished him for what he did and he decided Imprisonment for Life Time.People in Village came to know about it and people revolted against Emperor.Emperor was very Angry due to the Revolt and he Informed Soldiers to Hang Maulana till Death.Next Day Maulana was taken to hang and was asked for his

IMAGE TO COLOUR

last wish.Maulana said I want to Perform Hindu prayers and want to read Namaz for last time.Emperor came to know about the last wish and refused it but man who was going to Hang him arranged everything for him what he wanted.Maulana completed his prayers and read Namaz and finally he was Hanged.People in village came to know that Maulana is hanged and he is dead.Mob of people enterd the Emperor Palace with intention to destroy the Palace.Emperor came to know about it and he ran away.Maulanas Dead body was taken out of his palace and Muslim People said Maulana will be Burried as he was born as Muslim.Hindus says he will be given Fire as he was partly Hindu and followed Hindu tradition.His wife told it was the last wish of Maulana before his death was that he should become the food of Animals.As per Maulanas last wish his body was given to Animals.People made Maulanas Idol and was placed at open Ground which was not a Temple or Mousque.Everybody started performing Prayers and Namaz at that open Place This story is for all the people who are fighting for there Religion.Humanity comes first and Religion is secondary. Be Human.

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STUDENT AGE WEDESDAY, JANUARY 2, 2013

NATIONAL

TN govt takes steps to curb crime against women

'Jayalalithaa demands chemical castration for Delhi criminals'
CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu has become the first state to issue tough measures to deal with crimes against women after the horrific Delhi gangrape shocked the nation. Even as the nation stuggles to come to terms with the shocking gang-rape of a 23-year-old medical student in Delhi, Tamil Nadu government on Tuesday announced several measures aimed at curbing rising cases of crimes against women across the state. As per reports, these measures were announced by state's Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa, while she extended her greetings to the people of the state on the first day of the New Year 2013. In her message, the Tamil Nadu chief minister said that more fast-track courts will be set up in all districts across the state for speedy disposal of cases related to crimes against women. Similarly on the lines of Delhi, the Tamil Nadu government will also launch a helpline to help women in distress. undertaken to ensure safety of women in Tamil Nadu. police officials and speed up the process to get justice," the statement said. It added, "Goondas Act in Tamil Nadu will be amended to punish rapists. Fast track Mahila courts will be set up in all districts to deal with crime against women and women advocates will be appointed as government's pleaders. "The state would ask for existing laws should be amended to pronounce chemical castration and death sentence for rapists. The Tamil Nadu will undertake medical expenses of rape and sexual harassment victims and provide rehabilitation." The statement added that an exclusive helpline for women will be launched as soon as possible. "CCTV cameras will be used to identify criminals who harass women. Police in civilian clothes will be deployed at places where women turn out in large numbers," the statement said.

Winter woes worsen in north India; claims 97 lives in UP this season

NEW DELHI: A cold wave continues to sweep North India. North India continues to be in the grip of a severe cold wave as Delhi recorded its coldest night this season at 5.5 degree Celsius. Fourteen more people succumbed to extreme cold across the North, taking the death toll to 84. Dense fog in some areas too making matters worse of train and flight schedules. Biting cold claimed two more lives in Uttar Pradesh during the past 24 hours. With this, the toll in the state has gone up to 97 this season. The day's maximum temperature remained 2 to 10 degrees below normal in most parts of the state. Despite a sunny afternoon which provided much needed respite to people, the chill claimed three lives each in Jalaun and Bhadohi, two each in Azamgarh, Bahraich and Shrawasti and one each in Gazipur and Sonebhadra. Met office reports said that maximum temperatures were below normal by four to 10 degree Celsius at one or two places in the state. people of the region, officials said. In the plains of Punjab and Haryana, Narnaul braved the lowest temperature with a low of 1.9 degrees Celsius, which was four notches below normal. While Bhiwani settled at a low of 3.6 degrees Celsius, the minimum temperature at Hisar and Karnal was an identical 5.4 degrees Celsius, one notch each below normal. Patiala settled at a low of 5.8 degrees Celsius, one notch below normal followed by 5.8 degrees Celsius at Ludhiana, also one notch below normal, Amritsar six degrees Celsius, Chandigarh 6.4 degrees Celsius, one notch below normal and 6.8 degrees Celsius at Ambala, one notch above normal. Mercury dipped in the desert state of Rajasthan with Churu recording a minimum temperature of 1.9 degree Celsius, two degrees below normal. Shri Ganganagar which was the coldest place in Rajasthan on Sunday recording 0.6 degree Celsius, according to Met department.

Jayalalithaa has asked for existing laws to be amended to allow for chemical castration and death to rapists. She has promised fast-track Mahila courts as well and an exclusive helpline. Police in civilian clothing will be deployed at places where women turn out in large numbers as well. Jayalalithaa, in a statement, mentioned a slew of measures that would be

"Sexual harassment against women will be considered as a grave crime and will be investigated under the supervision of the senior level police officers. Sexual harassment cases will be viewed by district SPs and range DIG on a monthly basis. All pending cases in court and investigations on sexual harassment and rape cases will be reviewed by top

Kerala fishermen row: Marines will be back, says Italian government

New Delhi: Italy assured India that the two marines, facing murder charges in Kerala, will be back in the country within the first week of January as per the court order. "You can be assured that they will be back. The Republic of Italy has given its word in writing and we will honour that," a senior Italian government official told PTI here amid reports of uncertainty over their return. Recently media reports had said the marines would not be back as they are likely to contest elections there. Massimiliano Latorre and Salvatore Girone were allowed by the Kerala High Court this month to visit their family in Italy for Christmas. "This (allowing them to visit Italy) is a testimony of the Indian sensitivity towards the value of the Christmas festivities considered of the utmost importance by all Italians," Italian Foreign Minister Giulio Terzi said in Italy. The two marines were arrested from Italian vessel 'Enrica Lexie' on February 19 for shooting down two Indian fishermen off Alapuzha coast on February 15. The Kerala High Court permitted them to go home for two weeks while asking them to give a bank guarantee of Rs 6 crore and imposing stringent conditions. Italy has approached the Supreme Court for jurisdiction to try the marines at home, arguing the February firing took place in international waters. Italian government sources said the issue of marines is "highly sensitive and sentimental" and they were looking forward to early settlement of case. They said the Supreme Court here is likely to pronounce the judgement in the case in January.

Tamil Nadu: MDMK to contest Lok Sabha polls in 2014

CHENNAI: After boycotting the 2011 Tamil Nadu Assembly polls and a token contest in the Sankarankoil (SC) bypoll later, MDMK has decided to contest the Lok Sabha elections scheduled in 2014. "We have decided to contest in the general elections. We cannot say anything further," party chief Vaiko said, announcing the party's decision here. Asked whether he would contest and his party was forming an alliance with other parties, he said, "All I can say now is that my party will contest. I cannot say anything further." MDMK had boycotted the assembly polls in 2011 following breakdown of seat sharing talks with AIADMK and had fielded its nominee for the Sankarankoil (SC) bye-election. Replying to another query on the AIADMK supremo and Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa's walking out from the National Development Council meeting in Delhi, he said, "When a Chief Minister is making an important speech, the Centre should have permitted her to talk." "They (the Centre) could have been lenient on this. There was no need for the Centre to stop her speech. This is not good." On Jayalalithaa's proposal recommending harsher punishment for crime against women, he said liquor was the main reason behind them and harsher punishments can be effective only upto a point.

Night temperatures fell appreciably in Lucknow division. They were below normal in Gorakhpur, Bareilly, Moradabad, Jhansi and Agra divisions and normal in remaining divisions. Lowest minimum temperature in the state was 4.0 degree Celsius recorded at Muzaffarnagar. Fog threw normal life out of gear in Punjab, Haryana and Chandigarh today affecting air, rail and road traffic as the mercury plummeted sharply in the region on the New Year eve. Early morning dense fog reduced visibility to just a few metres adversely affecting air, rail and road traffic in the two states, official said in New Delhi. While

most of the flights from Chandigarh airport were cancelled or re-scheduled in view of low visibility, several trains passing through the plains of Punjab and Haryana are running hours behind schedule. A serpentine queue of vehicles could be seen moving slowly on highways due to the dense fog. Besides foggy conditions, the minimum temperature sharply fell in the region as the mercury hovered between four degrees Celsius below normal to one notch above normal in several parts of Punjab and Haryana, the Met office said. Tripping of power supply and low pressure of water further aggravated to the woes of the

Ministers ask president to resolve Telangana issue

HYDERABAD: Six ministers, including state Home Minister Sabita Indra Reddy and Major Industries Minister Geeta Reddy, met Mukherjee at Rashtrapathi Nilayam, the president's official retreat Bolarum in Secunderabad here. The ministers urged the president to ensure that immediate steps are taken for the formation of a Telangana state. They said people of the region had long been demanding a separate statehood and it was time the central government fulfilled their demand. Mukherjee, who headed a committee formed by the UPA government to look into the Telangana issue in 2008, told the ministers that he was aware of the issue. The ministers told reporters that the president hoped the problem would be solved soon. The ministers called on the president on the last day of his eight-day southern sojourn. During his visit, Mukherjee stressed the need for women's safety in the wake of the tragic gang-rape and subsequent death of a 23-year-old woman in Delhi. At an all-party meet in Delhi Dec 28, Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde had said the central government would find a solution to Telangana issue in a month.

Term of Commission probing 2002 Guj riots extended

AHMEDABAD: NanavatiMehta commission probing 2002 Gujarat riots has been granted yet another extension by the State Government. Mr.C.G.Patel- Secretary of the commission confirmed this on Monday evening. He said that the term of commission has been extended for six more months till 30th June. The reports said that this is 19th extension in over a decade. The Commission was set up on 3rd March 2002 as a one-member probe panel with retired HC judge K G Shah with mandate to probe the train burning incident of 27th February 2002. However, in May 2002, retired judge of Supreme Court G T Nanavati was appointed chairman of the commission and the Government asked it to probe post-Godhra riots also. In 2004, the state government widened the scope of its inquiry empowering it to question ministers including the chief minister. After Justice Shah passed away in 2008, retired High Court Judge Akshay Mehta was appointed as member of the commission. Earlier, the Commission had already submitted its interim report on the burning of S-6 coach of Sabarmati Express near Godhra railway station claiming that the attack was preplanned.

US supports India's key role in maintaining regional stability

WASHINGTON: The US has said it supports India's "critical" role as a leader in maintaining regional stability and both have a common interest in promoting global security and the free flow of global trade and commerce. "We have a shared interest in promoting global security, stability, and economic prosperity through trade, investment and connectivity," the State Department said in a background note on India. "The United States and India have a common interest in the free flow of global trade and commerce, including through the vital sea lanes of the Indian Ocean," it said. "The US supports India's critical role as a leader in maintaining regional stability. Security ties are robust and growing with bilateral defence and counter-terrorism cooperation reaching unprecedented levels," it said. The two countries also look continue to develop their defense partnership through military sales and joint research, co-production and co-development efforts, it added. The State Department said the US-India Strategic Dialogue, launched in 2009, provides opportunities to strengthen collaboration in areas including energy, climate change, trade, education, and counter-terrorism. The third annual meeting was held in June 2012. In 2012 alone, seven Cabinet-level officials made visits to India to deepen bilateral ties, it added. Noting that the strength of people to people linkages between the US and India has come to define the indispensable relationship between the two countries, the State Department said the increased cooperation of state and local officials to create ties has enhanced engagement in education. Additionally, state to state and city to city engagements have created new partnerships in business and the private sector and enhance India-US robust government to government engagement, it said. Stating that the US is one of India's largest trade and investment partners, it said US-India bilateral trade in goods and services has increased four and a half times over the last decade, to more than USD 86 billion in 2011. "Bilateral trade between our two countries is up 40 per cent since we began our Strategic Dialogue three years ago. The stock of Indian FDI in the United States has increased from USD227 million in 2002 to almost USD 4.9 billion in 2011, supporting thousands of US jobs," said the State Department. The US and India are negotiating a bilateral investment treaty as a key part of the effort to deepen the economic relationship, improve investor confidence, and support economic growth in both countries, it said. "India continues to move forward, albeit haltingly, with market-oriented economic reforms that began in 1991. Recent reforms have included an increasingly liberal foreign investment regime in many sectors," it said, welcoming the Indian government's move to allow FDI in retail. The United States supports a reformed UN Security Council that includes India as a permanent member, the State Department said India is an ASEAN dialogue partner, an Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development partner under its Enhanced Engagement program, and an observer to the Organization of American States. "India is also a member and the current chair of the Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation (IOR-ARC). In November 2012, the United States was admitted as a dialogue partner in the IOR-ARC with India's support," it said.

Home Min writes to all parties to send suggestions to Justice Verma Committee
NEW DELHI: Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde Tuesday said that he has written letters to all political parties asking them to send their suggestions on laws relating to crimes against women to the Justice JS Verma Committee. Talking to reporters in New Delhi, Mr Shinde, however, refused to comment on the opposition's demand for an all-party meeting to discuss the issue. The reports said that Finance Minister P. Chidambaram had yesterday dismissed the BJP's demand to convene a special session of Parliament to pass stringent laws on crimes against women. The post-mortem report of the 23-year-old Delhi gang-rape victim, is expected today following her death in a Singapore hospital. The young woman died on Saturday in a hospital in Singapore and the autopsy was done in that country before her body was brought back to India for last rites. The report is expected to be sent by Mount Elizabeth Hospital where she died and is expected to be handed over to the Delhi Police. It will be one of the most crucial pieces of evidence in the case the Delhi Police is building against the six men accused of raping and torturing the young woman in a moving bus in Delhi on December 16th. The police is also reportedly ready with the first draft of its chargesheet. The chargesheet is likely to be submitted in a Delhi court on Thursday. Peaceful protests continue in the national capital to demand the severest punishment for the culprits in the gangrape case of the paramedical student. Dozens of protesters comprising student groups and women activists are gathered at Jantar Mantar to press for safety and security of women in the city.

Kingfisher Airlines loses permit to fly

MUMBAI: Cash strapped Kingfisher Airlines has lost its permit to fly after a deadline to renew its suspended licence expired. DirectorateGeneral of Civil Aviation,DGCA, chief Arun Mishra told a news agency that the Kingfisher's flying permit has lapsed. Referring to Kingfisher's revival plan submitted to the DGCA last month Mishra informed that the airlines failed to provide additional details on the funding of operations. However, Kingfisher Spokesman Prakash Mirpuri said in a statement that there is no cause for concern as the rules allow for the renewal of

a permit within two years of expiry. The news is a fresh blow for the debt-laden carrier whose operations have been grounded since October after employees went on strike over unpaid wages. Kingfisher, controlled by liquor baron Vijay Mallya, owes millions of dollars to banks, airports, fuel suppliers and its staff and has been looking for a foreign investor to inject fresh funds. The firm has been the worst-hit of India's airlines in 2012, with the industry plagued by high jet fuel prices, fierce competition, price wars and shabby airport infrastructure.

Maha govt announces SIT to probe irrigation scam

MUMBAI: Maharashtra government announced a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by leading water expert Madhav Chitale to probe into the alleged multi-crore irrigation scam. The committee will also comprise of three retired bureaucrats and would submit its report in six months. The announcement of setting up the SIT was made by Water Resources Minister Sunil Tatkare in the legislative council in Nagpur. The terms of reference of the SIT and the appointment of members were to be finalised by December 31. Accordingly, the names of members and the terms of reference were announced by the government tonight. Apart from Chitale, the committee includes former ACS (Finance) A K D Jadhav, former irrigation secretary V M Ranade and former Agriculture commissioner Krishna Lavhekar. he committee will be headquartered in Aurangabad and they will submit their report to the government in six months. The scam, which came to the fore during Ajit Pawar's ministership, was pertaining to various irregularities which led to cost and time over run. Opposition's demand for SIT probe paralysed the proceedings of the state legislature recently as they claimed that the white paper released by the government on November 29 on irrigation sector was a white-wash. On the other hand, NCP said that white paper and the subsequent two documents released by it clearly show that the irrigation potential rose by 5.17 per cent and not by 0.1 per cent as observed by the Economic Survey. The white paper also gave a clean chit to Ajit Pawar who had resigned on September 25 following expose on irrigation scam rejoined on December 7. The committee will go into the details of examining the irrigated potential and actual irrigated land, reasons for the low actual irrigated area, reasons for cost escalations, delaying completion of pending projects, and suggesting measures for improving the irrigation sector.

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INTERNATIONAL
Afghan transition a 'sign of steady progress':Panetta
WASHINGTON: US Defense Secretary Leon Panetta has described the security transition process in Afghanistan as a "sign of steady progress". "It is another sign of steady progress that the government of Afghanistan has announced the fourth tranche of the transition process," media quoted Panetta as saying in a statement on Monday. Earlier in the day, Karzai announced that Afghanistan had entered the second to last stage of the transition of security responsibility from NATO's International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) to Afghan security forces. Afghanistan's security transition is scheduled to take place in five tranches, or stages. As part of the fourth tranche, 12 Afghan provinces entered the security transition process, ISAF officials said. The country now has 23 of its 34 provinces under transition process.US President Barack Obama has announced a withdrawal strategy that would see security responsibilities transferred to Afghans by the end of 2014.

Hindu Americans urge FBI to track religious hate crimes

WASHINGTON: Expressing shock at the tragic death of an Indian man, who was shoved to death in front of an oncoming subway train in New York last week, Indian Americans have asked the Department of Justice and FBI to separately track hate crimes against religious minorities in the country. "Such a violent and hateful attack on any individual, especially because of religious hatred is completely unconscionable in any society" said Suhag Shukla, executive director and legal counsel for the Washington-headquartered Hindu American Foundation "We need the Department of Justice to have a separate Hindu category to track anti Hindu hate crimes and urge Federal Bureau of Investigation to implement to raise the profile," Hindu American Seva Communities said in a statement. Police have arrested 31-yearold Erika Menendez in connection with the case in New York, and charged her with seconddegree murder as a hate crime. The defendant reportedly targeted 46-year old Sunando Sen out of hatred for Hindus and Muslims. Menendez pushed an unsuspecting Sen on to the subway tracks in front of an oncoming train at a Queens station as he was waiting on the platform on the night of December 27. Although not frequently reported, this incident is not an isolated event, Shukla said. "Though there is a high level of acceptance of our community in America, sometimes we see gaps through intolerance and violence. Unfortunately, innocent people are impacted when individuals turn against any group of people," HASC said. Urging Department of Justice and FBI to track Hindu hate crimes separately, HASC expresses grief over the tragic death of Sunando Sen and concern over xenophobia against Hindus, as well as Muslims and Sikhs. "Many of these heinous acts of are under-reported, and if reported are not tracked as hate crimes," it added. "We hope these heinous acts against our community will not go unnoticed and the death of Dr Sen will not be in vain. Just as the community improves its own security infrastructures we urge DOJ and FBI to track these hate crimes separately for appropriate data collection and action," HASC said.

Pakistan assumes rotating UN Security Council presidency

UNITED NATIONS: Pakistan Tuesday assumed the UN Security Council's rotating presidency for January. The presidency of the 15member security council rotates every month among its members according to their names in the English alphabetical order. Each president holds office for one calendar month. Pakistan, a non-permanent member of the security council, joined the 15-nation UN body for a two-year term in January 2012 and took over the month-long rotating presidency from Morocco Jan 1, 2013, media reported Pakistan's permanent representative to the UN Masood Khan is expected to brief the press here later this week on the work of the UN body in this month. Pakistan plans to hold open debates on "Counterterrorism - a comprehensive approach" as well as on "UN peacekeeping: a multidimensional approach", Khan earlier said. The country's Foreign Minister Hina Rabbani Khar will preside over the debate on counterterrorism, scheduled for Jan 15. In addition, an open debate on the situation in the Middle East is also planned for Jan 23. Under the UN Charter, the Security Council has the primary responsibility for the maintenance of peace and security in the world at large. The council comprises 15 members -- five permanent -- China, France, Russia, Britain and the US -and 10 non-permanent members elected by the UN General Assembly for twoyear terms.

Japan's new PM seeks security ties with India

TOKYO: Japan's new Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has sought to expand the Japan-US security partnership to India and Australia as it faces a bitter territorial row with China. "The Japan-US alliance is the cornerstone," Abe, sworn in as Prime Minister on Wednesday, said in an interview with media there. "It's good to expand it to security cooperation among Japan, the United States and India. (Co-operation) among Japan, the United States and Australia will also contribute to stability in the region," Abe said. "It is important to regain the region's power balance," he added without elaborating. Abe won conservative support in national polls earlier this month with forthright pronouncements on the Senkaku islands in the East China Sea, vowing not to budge on Japan's claim to them.

World welcomes New Year 2013 with fireworks, festivities

LONDON: Cities across the world ringed in the New Year 2013 with spectacular fireworks lighting up the skyline and a host of festivities and merrymaking marking the occasion from Sydney in Europe to Myanmar in Asia. Celebrations were held for the first time in Myanmar after a long span of five decades under military rule that banned big public gatherings. Over 90,000 people experienced the country's first New Year's Eve countdown in a field in the largest city of Yangon. Tens of thousands of people lined Hong Kong's Victoria Harbor to view a $1.6 million fireworks display, said to be the biggest ever in the southern Chinese city. In North Korea, cannons boomed at midnight in Pyongyang as people crowded the streets of the capital to watch a fireworks show over the Taedong River. After being in mourning a year ago regarding leader Kim Jong Il's death, North Koreans celebrated the end of a big year that included the rise of new leader Kim Jong Un and the recent launch of a satellite into space. Hotels, clubs and other sites in New Delhi, the Indian capital, cancelled festivities after the death Saturday of a young rape victim touched off days of mourning and reflection about women's safety. People were asked to light candles to express their solidarity with the victim. In Indonesia, Jakarta's street party centered on a 7-kilometer (4-mile) thoroughfare closed to traffic from nightfall until after midnight. Workers erected 16 large stages along the normally clogged, eight-lane highway through the heart of the city. Indonesia's booming economy is a rare bright spot amid global gloom and is bringing prosperity - or the hope of it - to its people. In the Philippines, where many are recovering from devastation from a recent typhoon, health officials have hit upon a successful way to stop revelers from setting off huge illegal firecrackers that maim and injure hundreds of Filipinos each year. Huge fireworks lit up skylines in Sydney, Hong Kong and Shanghai, and even the once-isolated country of Myanmar joined the countdown party for the first time in decades. Celebrations were planned around the world, including the traditional crystal ball drop in New York City's Times Square, where 1 million people were expected to cram into the surrounding streets. In Russia, Moscow's iconic Red Square was filled with spectators as fireworks exploded near the Kremlin to welcome in the new year. Earlier in the day, about 25 people were reportedly arrested in Moscow for trying to hold an unsanctioned demonstration. But President Vladimir Putin gave an optimistic New Year's Eve address, making no reference to the anti-government protests that have occurred in his country in the past year. In Australia, a balmy summer night was split by 7 tons of fireworks fired from rooftops and barges in Sydney, many cascading from the city's Harbor Bridge, in a $6.9 million pyrotechnic extravaganza billed by organizers as the world's largest. In austerity-hit Europe, the mood was more restrained - if hopeful. The year 2013 is projected to be a sixth straight one of recession amid Greece's worst economic crisis since World War II. In fact, the new year was starting with a 24-hour strike by subway and train workers in Athens to protest salary cuts that are part of the government's austerity measures. Still, in his televised New Year's Eve message, Prime Minister Antonis Samaras promised Greeks that the worst of the crisis is past, and declared 2013 a "year of hope" that will see the beginning of the country's rebirth. Celebrating New Year's Eve with a vespers service in St. Peter's Basilica, Pope Benedict XVI said that despite all the injustice in the world, goodness prevails. In his homily, Benedict said it's tough to remember that goodness can win when bad news - death, violence and injustice - "makes more noise than good." He said taking time to meditate in prolonged reflection and prayer can help "find healing from the inevitable wounds of daily life." German Chancellor Angela Merkel's New Year's message warned her country to prepare for difficult economic times ahead. Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus, decided to cancel celebrations in light of the economic crisis. Nicosia said 16,000 euros ($21,000) saved from the canceled event will be given to some 320 needy schoolchildren. In Spain, where a recession has left unemployment at a staggering 25 percent, people are hoping for a better new year.

ECONOMY

Five things to look forward to in 2013

NEW DELHI,JAN 01: The world didn't come to an end in 2012. But the economic gloom that hung heavily over most countries left many wondering if the Mayan prediction almost did come true. Still, every New Year does bring some hope to the horizon, and looking forward to some pleasant surprises might be the best way to step into the new calendar. 1. More Intent & Action from the Government 6.5% GDP growth likely in FY14 Reform measures intended to revive investment will hopefully lay the groundwork for faster growth in the years ahead. The year is likely to close to with GDP growth below 6%. The next year, FY14, will at best see a minor rebound, but no one is predicting a number greater than 6.5%, a far cry from 9% a few years ago. 2. Early Signs of Global Pick-up 3.6% IMF'S 2013 est. Growth for world economy, against 3.3% in 2012 Recent economic indicators point to the US economy expanding in 2013. In China, manufacturing expanded at its fastest in 19 months. Europe has avoided the worst possible outcome. 3. Interest Rates will Come Down, Finally 50-70 basis points rate cut likely in 2013 Some of the pre-conditions for a rate cut - lower rate of price increases and a decline in fi scal defi cit - are emerging. The magnitude of decline in interest rates will depend on crude oil and other commodity prices remaining stable, or falling. 4. Markets to be Upbeat 15-20% Sensex rally that Nirmal Jain, Chairman, India Infoline, expects in 2013 Markets will maintain their momentum, but it will depend on a reversal of the interest rate cycle, infl ation and a good monsoon. With the US and Europe likely to be in slow growth and low interest rates, accelerating fund fl ows into emerging markets, including India, will help. The downside? Any more political turmoil and a second monsoon failure. 5. IPO market will look up 50-100% Growth in IPO fund raising likely in 2013 More cos will roll out IPOs, but with a modest issue price. Also expect government disinvestment, debt-ridden cos issuing shares to qualifi ed institutional investors and mandatory issue of shares to pare promoter ownership in listed fi rms to 75%.

GC Chaturvedi, R Chandrasekhar & TS Vijayan in fray for top IRDA post

NEW DELHI,JAN 1: Two bureaucrats, petroleum secretary GC Chaturvedi and top official in the telecom department R Chandrasekhar, along wth former LIC chairman TS Vijayan are in the running to succeed J Hari Narayan as chairman of the Insurance Regulatory and Development authority (IRDA), Earlier this week, a selection panel headed by financial services secretary DK Mittal interviewed nine prospective successors to Narayan, including current LIC chairman DK Mehrotra, and ex CEO of Star Union Dai-ichi Life Insurance, Kamalji Sahay. The government appointed panel had receive around 30 applications for the post of IRDA chairman. The incumbent, J Hari Narayan retires in February. "It will be a close race as all the three contenders have huge experience and strong support from various groups," said a government official. GC Chaturvedi, a 1977 batch IAS officer, is considered to be the front runner. He has worked in different capacities in the finance ministry and was special director general (finance & accounts) of the organising committee for the Commonwealth Games before taking over as petroleum secretary. R Chandrasekhar is a 1975 batch IAS officer from Andhra cadre. Former LIC Chairman TS Vijayan who was battling corruption allegations who was recently given a clean chit by the Central Bureau of Investigation and the finance ministry, may also be a strong contender. The selection panel includes former SBI Chairman OP Bhatt, former Sebi chairman GN Bajpai, department of economic affairs secretary Arvind Mayaram and secretary in the department of personnel and training PK Mishra. In the recent past Narayan has publicly opposed a proposal by the finance ministry allowing LIC to own up to 30% of a company. IRDA norms prohibit insurance companies from owning more than 10% of a company and Narayan has insisted that the rule should apply to LIc also. However, LIC has insisted that it should be allowed to own higher stakes as it find it difficult to trade in stocks where the holding is around the 10%. The finance ministry has also been keen to allow LIC to cross 10% as the state-owned insurer acts as an anchor investor in the sale of stateowned companies.

NEW DELHI, JAN1: The combined output of eight key infrastructure sectors fell to 1.8% in November, from 7.8% in the same month last year and 6.5% in October, due to drop in production of coal, natural gas and cement. The decline in November was due to negative growth witnessed in coal, natural gas and cement and drop in growth rates of electricity, steel and petroleum refinery products, according to the official data released by the commerce and industry ministry on Monday. The cumulative expansion of the eight industries - crude oil, natural gas, cement, coal, electricity, steel, petroleum refinery products and fertilisers- was down at 3.5% in April-November 2012 against 4.8% in the same

Core sector growth dips to Urjit Patel seen as frontrunner 1.8% in November for RBI Deputy Governor's post
period last year. The eight industries have a weight of 37.9% in the overall Index of Industrial Production (IIP) and is bound to refelect in the factory output numbers expected next week. But, economists say it is difficult to draw a conclusion due to volatility of the data. "This data is very volatile so one cant draw any conclusion of any trend but it will refflect in the IIP numbers," said D K Joshi, chief economist, CRISIL. Production of natural gas and coal contracted by 15.2% and 4.4%, respectively, in November. Cement output too shrunk by 0.2% as against 17 % growth in the same month last year. Steel and electricity production slowed to 6% and 2.3%, respectively. MUMBAI,JAN 1: Urjit Patel, a consultant with the Boston Consulting Group, has emerged as the surprise frontrunner for the post of deputy governor at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and is likely to replace incumbent Subir Gokarn. The government is likely to announce the appointment of Patel as the new deputy governor - in charge of monetary policy - ahead of both Gokarn and Kalpana Kochhar, an economist with the IMF, said a person aware of the government's thinking. The race was largely supposed to have been between Gokarn and Kochhar, according to a story carried in this paper as well as others. Patel has worked in a diverse range of institutions, both in public and private sectors. These include stints with the IMF and as a consultant to the ministry of finance as well as two years at the RBI between 1995 and 1997. He has also been an executive director at IDFC, a private finance company , and has had a oneyear stint as president (business development ) in Reliance Industries. Patel's key strength is said to be his specialisation in infrastructure finance. A search committee, headed by RBI governor D Subbarao, had identified three names for the post. It considered giving an extension to Gokarn, besides considering the claims of Kalpana Kochhar and Urjit Patel. Gokarn completed his two-year term in November. Since the government had not finalised either a replacement or a new term for him, Gokarn was given a one-month extension. Gokarn, 53, was earlier an economist with rating company Crisil and had succeeded Rakesh Mohan in 2010. Kochhar, a Ph.d in Economics from Brown University has been the division chief and senior advisor at IMF. RBI has four deputy governors. Of these two are from the ranks of RBI officials. Of the remaining two, one deputy governor, who is in charge of monetary policy is appointed by the government while the other slot is reserved for the heads of public sector banks.

External debt rises 5.8% in April-September to $365.3 billion

NEW DELHI,JAN 1: India's external debt increased by 5.8% in April-September to $365.3 billion due to increase in non-resident deposits, short-term debt and commercial borrowings by companies. The long-term debt was $ 280.8 billion at endSeptember, an increase of 5.1% over the end-March 2012 level, while short-term debt increased by 8.1% to $ 84.5 billion, according to data by the finance ministry. Short-term debt accounted for 23.1% of the country's total external debt, while the remaining 76.9% was longterm debt. Component-wise, the share of commercial borrowings stood highest at 29.8%, followed by NRI deposits at 18.3% and multilateral debt at 13.9.

FIPB to take up IKEA plan next we

NEW DELHI, JAN 1: The Foreign Investment Promotion Board, India's top authority that clears foreign investment proposals, will review Swedish furniture major IKEA's application to invest Rs 10,500 crore to set up single-brand retail stores in the country next week. "IKEA's proposal will be taken up next week," Arvind Mayaram, the economic affairs secretary, said. "More information has been sought," he said after a meeting of the board. The FIPB, chaired by Mayaram, had on November 21 cleared IKEA's proposal with several riders and forwarded the proposal to Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) for consideration as FDIproposals of more than Rs 1,200 crore requires CCEA nod. But the board slashed a number of items including food and beverages from the list of products IKEA sought to sell in the country and turned down its request to operate its famed cafe in its outlets. The Scandinavian firm had also sought approval to sell items such as textile products, consumer electronics, leather products and lifestyle products. IKEA, which is keen to replicate the global format for its stores in India, approached the department of industrial policy and promotion (DIPP), requesting a review of the FIPB decision. DIPP, which formulates the FDI policy and also vets proposals in the retail sector before they can be taken up by the FIPB, forwarded IKEA's request to the FIPB to consider its case favourably.

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MISC

Serena imposes authority with crushing win

B R I S B A N E (AUSTRALIA): Serena Williams stamped her authority on the Brisbane International on Tuesday when she crushed Frenchwoman Alize Cornet 6-2, 6-2. On a day that saw second seed Maria Sharapova withdraw with an injured collarbone and fifth and sixth seeds Sara Errani and Petra Kvitova bundled out, Williams was all business as she disposed of Cornet in exactly one hour. The 15-time Grand Slam winner broke Cornet in the first game of the match and was never troubled after that, as she broke the Frenchwoman once more in the first set and twice in the second for a comprehensive victory. Williams had far too much firepower for Cornet, hitting 25 winners to four including six aces. One in the second set was clocked at 200 kmh (125 mph). The third-seeded American stepped up a gear from her opening-round win over fellow countrywoman Varvara Lepchenko. "She's (Cornet) a former top 15 player and we've had a Brisbane because of an ankle injury and went straight to Melbourne to prepare for the Australian Open, where she finished runner-up to Victoria Azarenka. Sharapova said she would do the same this year, passing up the opportunity of playing in Sydney next week to make sure she is fit for Melbourne. Former Wimbledon champion Kvitova, who won in Brisbane in 2011, went down 6-4, 7-5 to Russia's Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova, while Italy's Errani lost in three sets to 2012 runner-up Daniela Hantuchova 4-6, 6-1, 7-5. Top seed and world number one Victoria Azarenka plays her second-round match against German Sabine Lisicki on Wednesday. In the men's draw, Uzbekistan's Denis Istomin downed eighth seed Slovakian Martin Klizan 6-1, 6-2, while Austria's Jurgen Melzer, the seventh seed, beat US qualifier Denis Kudla 2-6, 6-4, 6-4. Australian qualifier John Millman set up a secondround clash against Andy Murray when he beat Japan's Tatsumo Ito 6-4, 6-1 and Tommy Robredo of Spain edged American Ryan Harrison 6-4, 7-6 (7/4).

Mahesh Bhupathi drops hints of playing the Korea tie

CHENNAI: Veteran Indian tennis player Mahesh Bhupathi on Monday indicated that all his issues with the All India Tennis Association (AITA) have been sorted out and he may represent the country in the upcoming Davis Cup tie against Korea. Bhupathi and Rohan Bopanna were banned by AITA for defying the London Olympics selection but Karnataka High Court had stayed the ban when the players appealed against it. Both Bhupathi and Bopanna had refused to team up with Leander Paes for the London Games. "Court case has been stayed for months and months ago. As far as I know, the AITA has sent me an email asking me whether I am available for selection. I have said that I am available. Obviously, it is good that they have done that," Bhupathi said ahead of the Chennai Open. Specifically asked if he is Bhupathi said it gives you a reason to be happy. "Over the years barring Roger Federer we are pretty much attracted. Quite an amazing group of talented players come for it from Rafa to Boris to Kaflinikov and so on. Even this year Tomas Bewrdych is six in the world. It all depends on how they want to plan their schedule for a new season. It is not very easy but I am glad that talents come to India." Bhupathi hoped that more Indian players will make the singles main draw here in future. "Obviously at some point we would like Indian boys to come through qualifying to main draw. Rohan did that a few years ago and Yuki had done that. There are lot of opportunities for Indian players as the tour is not as tough. Hopefully, we will see many Indians would be coming through qualifying to main draw," he said.

Serena Williams of the US waves at the crowd after she beat Alize Cornet of France 6-2, 6-2 during the Brisbane International tennis tournament in Brisbane. tough three-set match before so I knew I had to play really well," she said. "I tried to be more aggressive and tried to be more consistent." Sharapova was earlier forced to withdraw with a right collarbone injury. The Russian world number two sent scans of her injury to her doctor in New York, who advised her not to do any overhead training for at least a week. "So to be fair I haven't really given myself a chance to pretty much hit any serves or anything over my head, I've just been practising groundstrokes. So I just kind of ran out of time here," she said. It is the second year in a row that Sharapova has withdrawn from the tournament without playing a shot. In 2012 she skipped

ready to pair with any player, an apparent reference to Paes, Bhupathi said, "I have made myself available. That is the bottom line. There is no point in speculating as to who is going to play with me. They asked me whether I am going to play, I said yes." Talking about Chennai Open, the season-opener, Bhupathi there are several contenders for the title. "Daniel ask me about it last year and we have playing. Planning to play with him the whole season. Besides us, Leander and Roger are strong combina-

tion. Rohan and Rajiv Ram is a dangerous duo. Obviously we are all playing with new partners for the first time and it is going to be interesting," he said. Bhupathi said during the off season, he worked on a few aspects of his game to adjust to the style of play of Nestor. "I was working on my forehands for switching sides because Daniel is a strong AD court player. Few changes that I had to make. Many world stars, including Rafel Nadal, have come to play in Chennai Open and

Deepika wins seven medals in National Archery championships

CHENNAI: Deepika Kumari reigned supreme with seven medals, while veteran Dola Banerjee Representing SPSB, Deepika won two gold medals (70m, Olympic round), three silver (50m, Railway archer came back from a long injury lay-off to pick two gold (50m, team), two silver (mixed pair, olympic) and two bronze medals (60m, 70m). In the men's section, promising Railways archer Kapil had an impressive outing winning the individual Olympic round, even as Rahul Banerjee had the maximum number of five medals -- one gold (team), two silver (30m, mixed pair) and two bronze (70m, 90m). Rajib Basumatary of SSCB and Mangal Singh Champia of Railways also made it memorable winning two gold medals each.Basumatary won the two gold in 50m and 90, while Olympian Champia won gold medals in 70m and team event.

Mohun Bagan appeals to AIFF to review suspension

KOLKATA: Beleagured Mohun Bagan appealed to the AIFF for a review of its decision to suspend the club till 2015-16 seasons for abandoning the December 9 ILeague derby against archrivals East Bengal at the Yuba Bharati Krirangan. Refusing to reveal the content of the letter, addressed to AIFF president Praful Patel, Mohun Bagan media manager said, "We formally wrote to the AIFF , making a plea for a review to the suspension order." Violence had gripped Yuba Bharati Krirangan with spectators hurling missiles on the pitch soon after Mohun Bagan forward Odafa Okolie was red-carded during December 9 I-League derby. Down 0-1, Mohun Bagan had refused to play in the second-half after their midfielder Syed Rahim Nabi was hit by a stone during the violence-marred derby. Acting on a judgment by one-man committee of Justice A K Ganguly, the AIFF in an unprecedented decision had suspended the 123-year-old club for the next two seasons, while making their campaign in the ongoing season null and void.

Indian and Pakistani teams arrive in Kolkata

KOLKATA: India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, coach Duncan Fletcher, allrounder Ravindra Jadeja and local lads Ashok Dinda and Mohammad Shami arrived in Kolkata on Monday along with the Pakistani contingent for the second ODI against Pakistan slated for January 3. The remaining team India players will arrive in batches on Tuesday, CAB sources said. The players arrived by a chartered flight from Chennai and were taken to the team hotel amidst tight security. They will remain at the hotel and will be busy with private parties to usher in the New Year. The teams are slated to practice at the Eden Gardens on Tuesday afternoon, the local manager said. Down 0-1 in the threematch series, India must win the Eden one-dayer to keep their hopes in series alive. The third and final onedayer is scheduled in Delhi on January 6.

Mumbai enter quarterfinals of Ranji Trophy

NAVI MUMBAI: Mumbai are through to the knock out stages, despite a draw, after winning three points against Gujarat on the basis of their first innings lead, on the last day of the group A Ranji Trophy match on Tuesday. The hosts failed to register their second outright win of the season, as they were unable to chase the score of 135, after they had bundled out the opposition for 337. Their run chase started with a hiccup, as they soon lost opener Aditya Tare (7) caught behind off Kushang Patel with only 17 runs on board. Kaustubh Pawar and Hiken Shah ensured that there were no further casualties but the home side still needed 70 runs, when the play was called off before the beginning of the mandatory 14 overs. Middle-order batsman Manprit Juneja's valiant 98 wasn't enough for the visitors to impose a challenging total, but helped them to salvage a point. During the first session of the day, Juneja and debutant Chirag Gandhi batted well and shared a 97-run partnership to get past the Mumbai first innings lead of 203. Gandhi scored 64 runs and hit 13 fours before being trapped leg before by Abhishek Nayar. Juneja later forged a 63run stand with Rush Kalaria for the eighth wicket, and Kalaria knocked a quick fire 43 off 39 balls, with five fours and a six. Kalaria was caught at covers by Kaustubh Pawar off pacer Dhawal Kulkarni. The 39-time champions struck quickly, when they got rid off Juneja, who fell 2 short off his century, with the visitors leading by 133 runs. In his patient knock of 98 that guided the visitors to post a modest total of 134, Juneja hit 11 fours, before being caught in covers by Nayar off left-arm spinner Ankeet Chavan. Chavan, who scalped four wickets in the innings for 124 runs, struck again in the same over by getting rid off Kushang Patel to end the Gujarat innings.

marked her return to form picking six medals in the 33rd Sahara Senior National championships that concluded at the Anna University ground on Monday.

60m and team) and two bronze (30m and mixed pair) in the women's recurve section. But it was a memorable tournament for two-time Olympian Dola as the

Hockey India League signs title sponsorship deal with Hero MotoCorp
NEW DELHI: The upcoming Hockey India League has signed a multi-year deal with Hero MotoCorp, the world's largest two-wheeler manufacturer, for the title sponsorship of the event. With this sponsorship, the tournament will be called as "Hero Hockey India League". Announcing this here today, Secretary General of Hockey India and Chairman Hockey India League Narinder Batra said, "We are delighted to have Hero MotoCorp as the Title Sponsor of the Hockey India League. "Hockey India League thanks Hero MotoCorp for coming on board to become our partner for a long and joyful journey." Mr Pawan Munjal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Hero MotoCorp LtdBSE 0.01 %. said, "Hockey holds a special place in our hearts and we are pleased to partner with Hockey India League." "I am sure that the initiative taken by Hockey India to start this league will go a long way in developing the game and bring back its old glory." The inaugural Hero Hockey India League will be held from January 14 to February 10 involving 120 leading players, showing their finest skills in 34 matches.

Eden curator promises 'proper' ODI wicket

KOLKATA:Veteran curator Prabir Mukherjee on Tuesday said the Eden Gardens pitch for the India-Pakistan One-Day International (ODI) on Thursday would be a "proper one-day wicket" with something for everybody. "It will be a proper one-day wicket assisting stroke-play for the batsmen. There will be bounce for the pacers and spinners will get purchase in the later stages of the game," said Mr Mukherjee. Mr Mukherjee had courted controversy after slamming India skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni over his demand for a square turner in the Test match against England last month. Down a game in the three-match series, India will meet Pakistan for the second game in Kolkata on Thursday. "It will be the same pitch which was used for the Test match against England, but it will be a typical one-day wicket with lot of runs," said Mr Mukherjee.

Japanese boxer wins WBA super feather weight title

TOKYO: Japan`s Takashi Uchiyama retained the World Boxing Association (WBA) super featherweight title beatDuring Monday`s bout, Uchiyama was in control as he deflected the nervous jabs of Vasquez, who was visibly In the eighth round, Uchiyama delivered a heavy blow to Vasquez`s face and then followed up with a series of punches that forced the referee to suspend the fight and declare a technical knockout (TKO) by the Japanese featherweight. Vasquez`s defeat dashed any hopes Costa Rican boxing had of winning a world title before the close of 2012, or of winning a men`s world boxing championship for the first time ever. To date, the only Costa Rican ever to win a world boxing crown is Hanna Gabriel, Vasquez`s wife, who currently holds the World Boxing Organisation (WBO) super welterweight title.

Hockey India League signs title sponsorship deal with Hero MotoCorp
NEW DELHI: The upcoming Hockey India League has signed a multi-year deal with Hero MotoCorp, the world's largest two-wheeler manufacturer, for the title sponsorship of the event. With this sponsorship, the tournament will be called as "Hero Hockey India League". Announcing this here today, Secretary General of Hockey India and Chairman Hockey India League Narinder Batra said, "We are delighted to have Hero MotoCorp as the Title Sponsor of the Hockey India League. "Hockey India League thanks Hero MotoCorp for coming on board to become our partner for a long and joyful journey." Mr Pawan Munjal, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Hero MotoCorp LtdBSE -0.01 %. said, "Hockey holds a special place in our hearts and we are pleased to partner with Hockey India League." "I am sure that the initiative taken by Hockey India to start this league will go a long way in developing the game and bring back its old glory." The inaugural Hero Hockey India League will be held from January 14 to February 10 involving 120 leading players, showing their finest skills in 34 matches.

Gujarat government to come up with Sports Policy

GANDHINAGAR: Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi on Monday said that the state government will soon announce a Sports policy. Flagging off the torch relay for the third Khel Mahakumbh (2012-13), a state sport event, here, Modi said, "the state government will soon come up with a Sports Policy to encourage youth participation in sports and to develop a vibrant sports culture in the state." Khel Mahakumbh is a programme initiated by the state government in 2010 to encourage participation of youngsters, students studying in schools in sports events and activities for promoting sports culture in the state. State Sports, Youth and Culture Affairs Minister Raman Vora said that more than 21 lakh people across various age categories have registered in this year's Khel Mahakumbh. In 2011, a record 18 lakh sportpersons, including 60,000 differently able sportspersons, had graced the event. Modi highlighted that no one knew about sports, youth and culture affairs ministry in the past but on Monday it is at the centrestage just like Finance, Industries, Agriculture and Education Ministries. "Sports events or activities should not be organised as mere competitions. But it should be part of a person's social life. Competitions should be a mere by-product of sporting events," Modi said addressing budding sportspersons here. Modi said there was a time when playgrounds would be brimming with children playing different sports. However, with the advent of television and computers, children are staying indoors more, evincing less interest in sports.

ing Costa Rica`s "Tiquito" Vasquez.

Bryan

running out of steam as the fight progressed.

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