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FRIDAY, AUGUST 23, 2013

JKENG/2012/41612 Vol. 2 No: 113

SYRIAN WAR DISPLACES 1 MILLION CHILDREN, UN SAYS

Career in BIOPHYSICS
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ROBERT MUGABE SWORN IN FOR FIVE MORE YEARS AS ZIMBABWE'S PRESIDENT

INDIA SAYS LOC INCIDENTS TO COST TIES; PAK URGES TO CONTINUE DIALOGUE
backdrop of series of ceasefire violations on the LoC in Jammu and Kashmir with the two sides trading charges. Reports from Islamabad said that Pakistan Thursday expressed willingness to continue talks with India, saying all channels of communication should be kept open as suspending dialogue serves the purpose of only those who do not wish to see peace between the two countries. Pakistan also said the Prime Ministers of both countries could meet on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly next month to discuss issues and bridge the trust deficit. "Suspending dialogue or slowing down dialogue does not serve the two governments or the people. It serves the objectives of those elements who do not wish to see peace," Foreign Office spokesman Aizaz Chaudhry said. Pakistan is clear that continuation of dialogue and talks is the way to go, he told a weekly press briefing that was dominated by violations of the ceasefire on the Line of Control and India-Pakistan talks. Mr Chaudhry said there is a "need to build confidence so that there are no misunderstandings". Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's offer to use next month's possible meeting to hold talks with his Indian counterpart Contd p2

violated again in Omar, Dr Farooq say ceasefire Ceasefire Poonch, 2 women injured violations detrimental
KATHUA/JAIPUR, AUG 22: Asking Pakistan to stop ceasefire violations along LoC, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said people on both sides of the border were bearing the brunt of it and the incidents will not improve bilateral relations between the two countries. "The best thing is, we (India and Pakistan) should accept and respect the ceasefire and ensure safety of people living on two sides of the border," Omar told reporters during an assessment of flood-hit areas in Kathua district today. The Chief Minister was responding to questions on ceasefire violations by Pakistan along the Line of Control (LoC) and prospects of improving relations between the two countries. "People living close to LoC have to suffer...Whether it is from this side or the other...They have to bear the brunt of ceasefire violations," he said. "This (ceasefire violation) is nothing new...We have been repeatedly saying that leaders of India and Pakistan ...Accept ceasefire...For people's benefit

Pak passes resolution against LoC firing, says 1 solider killed

JAMMU, AUG 22 : Two women were on Thursday injured in indiscriminate firing by Pakistani troops in Kerni area along the Line of Control in Poonch sector in fresh ceasefire violations, drawing retaliation from Indian troops. Pakistan Army troops opened fire with small and automatic weapons on forward posts in Poonch today at around 12:00 pm, defence spokesman Col RK Palta said. The firing from across the border prompted Indian troops to retaliate, leading to intermittent exchanges which were on when reports last came in, he said. 12-year-old Hassana and 32-year-old Noor Jahan sustained injuries in the firing by Pakistani troops, Shamsher, SSP Poonch, said. Pakistani forces fired on Indian forward areas in Kerni-I and Kerni-II in Poonch sector, the third ceasefire violation since yesterday in the district. Pakistan Army had Contd p2

N E W DELHI/ISLAMABAD AUG 22 : India today asked Pakistan to uphold the sanctity of the Line of Control and abide by the ceasefire commitment of 2003, asserting that unprovoked incidents on the Line of Control by the Pakistan Army have consequences for bilateral ties. However, Pakistan Thursday expressed willingness to continue talks with India, saying all channels of communication should be kept open as suspending dialogue serves the purpose of only those who do not wish to see peace between the two countries. "India is committed to resolve all outstanding issues with Pakistan, through a peaceful bilateral dialogue in an environment free from violence and terror which has been conveyed to Pakistan. "Continued terrorism emanating from Pakistan and ter-

ritories under its control remains a core concern for us. Unprovoked incidents on the Line of Control by the Pakistan Army, also have consequences for our bilateral ties," Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs E Ahmed said in reply to a question in Rajya Sabha. The minister also emphasised the need for Pakistan to show determined action to dismantle the terrorist networks, organisations and infrastructure and show tangible movement on bringing those responsible for the 2008 Mumbai terrorist attack to justice quickly. Ahmed also noted that the newly elected Prime Minister of Pakistan has publicly articulated his commitment to seek a relationship with India defined by peace, friendship and cooperation. The remarks come in the

(living close to the LoC on both sides)," Omar said. "I cannot understand what Pakistan achieves by breaking ceasefire ... Wherever they violate ceasefire, we strongly retaliate and they (Pakistan) suffer losses," the Chief Minister said. The 225-km long LoC in Poonch-Rajouri sector has witnessed daily firing since August 10 with over 28 ceasefire violations this month alone. There have been over 80 ceasefire violations by Pakistani troops till now from January 1 this year. Replying to another question on India's hope in the Nawaz Sharif government for improvement of Indo-

Pak relations, Omar said, "How much hope we will keep in the Nawaz Sharif government depends on several factors, as Pakistan is not controlled by the civilian government alone...There are others too...The ISI, Army and other factors." At Jaipur, Minister of New and Renewable Energy Dr Farooq Abdullah said that Pakistan must honour ceasefire along the border before talks can take place between New Delhi and Islamabad. "If they (Pakistan) want friendship, they will have to stop supporting militancy, they will have to stop intrusion and firing on the border," he said.

Govt to work out flood protection project to tame major rivers: Omar
Visits flood-hit areas of Jmu region
SRINAGAR, AUG 22 : Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah Thursday said that State Government would work out a comprehensive flood protection programme with the Union Government to tame all major rivers including Jhelum, Chenab, Ujh and Tawi to relieve the people of the repeated devastation caused by these rivers year after year in the State. The Chief Minister said that these rivers are causing great damage to the land, crops and property besides endangering human lives. "There is a need of formulating a well-drafted holistic plan to tame these and rivers and ensure protection from floods", he said maintaining that the State Government would seek liberal Central assistance in the implementation of this stupendous programme. The Chief Minister was talking to flood affected people at Chang Ghatti in Contd p2

POLICE FOILS EMPLOYEES' PROTEST MARCH

SRINAGAR, AUG 22: Police on Thursday used batons and water cannons to disrupt a protest march here by government employees who tried to march towards Chief Minister's residence over the demand of retirement age enhancement and end to pay anomalies. On the Joint Consultative Committee (JCC) call, hundreds of employees tried to take up a march from Sher-e-Kashmir park towards high-security Gupkar Road residence of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah.against the 'failure of the government to fulfil their demands.' However, police swung into action and dispersed the protesting employees. Dozens of employees, including some union leaders, were detained by the police. Scuffle between police and protestors created panic and traffic movement was affected for around 30 minutes in the area. "The government signed an agreement with the Contd p2

Except SKIMS, hospitals sans anti-venom vaccine

SRINAGAR, AUG 22 : In a bolt to Valley's health sector, all the hospitals here except Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) lack the all-time required lifesaving vaccine antivenom. The shortage, despite claiming so many lives earlier, continues to prevail with medical authorities seeming totally indifferent towards the concern. According to details all the hospitals across the Valley except SKIMS are without anti-venom which is a lifesaving vaccine. The deficiency of vaccine severely affects the patients particularly snake-bitten who have to, without any choice, reach SKIMS, Soura, Contd p2

Dr Kamaal doubts absence of PDP MLA on Eid Army thrashes youth,

Says communal elements instigated riot
Stone-pelting, aerial firing in Pampore
PAMPORE, AUG 22 : Panic gripped in South Kashmir's Samboora area of Pampore town when Army personnel on Wednesday evening alleged resorted to unprovoked firing and thrashed the youth including some Bihari labours who were playing in Stadium. People alleged that Army personnel were drunk who jumped from their armoured vehicles and started beating everyone present in the playing ground. Eyewitnesses said that Army personnel from 50 RR arrived in their armoured vehicles at Samboora playground and without any reason thrashed youth and some labours from outside state. People and youth who were outside stadium resented the action of the Army personnel and they pelted stones on them. Soon, scores of people gathered there who resorted to heavy stone pelting. Army personnel according to eyewitnesses responded with stones too. Reports said that Army called SOG personnel to disperse the agitated people and during the ensuing clashes, Amy personnel resorted to heavy aerial firing which created panic in the area. The clashes continued till late night. Locals said that they spent the night in their yards. "We failed to understand why Army personnel thrashed people without any reason and why they tried to disrupt the peace when everything was normal," one of the locals said. When contacted, PRO, Army Ankur Varishi said that he doesn't know anything about the incident. "Let me verify the facts and I would let you know whether Contd p2

non-local labours

JAMMU, AUG 22 : Additional General Secretary National Conference Dr. Mustafa Kamaal addressed senior office bearers here today on the first day of his three day visit to Jammu.He received first hand information regarding recent incidents of violence at Jammu and Kishtwar instigated at the behest of communal ele-

ments in BJP, VHP and Bajgrang Dal and the separatist groups. Eye brows are being raised at the absence of a local MLC of PDP on the day of Idd-ul- Fitr who chose to remain at Srinagar on this fateful day when communal violence erupted in Kishtwar. He complimented rank and file of National Conference party in playing a leading

role in restoring peace in the region especially Kishtwar in keeping with the rich secular ideals and traditions of the National Conference party so dear to its founding father Sher -e- Kashmir and others. On this occasion he impressed upon them to be ever vigilant against these destructive forces and preempt any untoward incident aimed at disturbing communal and social harmony. He directed the State Vice President Shri Rattan Lal Gupta to plan a good will delegation visit to Kishtwar to express Contd p2

Over 60% polling for LAHDC Kargil

KARGIL, AUG 22: The 3rd General Election for Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Kargil, started at 8 am today and continued till 4 pm. People both men and women were seen in que since morning 6 am and according to some voters they reached the polling station at 5 am, which shows the eagerness of the voters towards this democratic system. According to Election Authority/Deputy Commissioner 6070% vote has been cast till last report received and reports from Zanskar is yet to receive. According to Haji Hussain from Baroo who is of 102 years old, and is the oldest voter, it's the attraction of the democratic from of the Indian Constitution and his belief in it, which he is voting at this age and feels proud after casting his vote. According to voters this Local Body which came into existence in 1995 in Leh Ladakh and in 2003 in Kargil, people has seen great development and change in the society. Contd p2

CONGRESS DESTINED TO PLAY SECOND FIDDLE?

HINDSIGHT
ROHIT SINGH RANA A brave attempt was made by the Congress to put a show of solidarity in the view of factionalism that is not a secret now. The State Congress is divided between Soz and Azad factions. Despite that Saifu-din Soz, the State Party President tried to cobble up a joint front by organizing a rally in which some of the members of both factions were seen together. But the show did not run well as the rally was to be addressed by Ghulam Nabi Azad and Ambica Soni both AICC General Secretaries. The taste of the cake turned sour when both these leaders did not turn up for the rally, so assiduously crafted by Soz. Did Azad pour cold water over Sozs efforts to project himself as a great binder in the State Congress is any bodys guess? But grape wine cannot be stopped from having its own versions ready. Some say that it was exactly for the purpose of showing Soz his place that the two senior central functionaries from Delhi did not attend. Though in such circumstances, the ready phrase available is that they could not come because of some pressing engagements. What more pressing engagements could be for senior party functionaries than to attend a rally aimed at reducing the mistrust and putting up a joint and united face in the wake of coming elections? Here something smells foul, more so because some die-hard Azad loyalists like Saroori, Manohar lal, G S Charak, Jugal Kishore were not seen in the rally. Conspicuous by their absence suggests something deep inside the body of the state unit of the largest political party of the country. Every person is watching with deep interest, what is Congress up for in the coming elections. In a coalition with National Conference it is playing second fiddle and in the crucial matters its MLAs have openly clashed with the members of NC on the floor of the house. Not long ago, Soz had raised heckles by saying that they could form a government on their own, but at the recently held rally Soz was a little subdued and muted when he said that Congress cannot form government on its own. Here the real politik seeped into the wisdom of Soz which is the most likely possibility. As per his statement that his party will emerge as the largest one in the State is something that does not seem likely given the fluid nature of States political reality. With factionalism still a problem and Soz-Azad differences not subdued, how Congress can with thumping chests, proclaim that it will emerge as the largest party. A new strategy is on although subtle one that Congress may finally cobble up a Coalition with its present partner National Conference. The Statement of Soz that AFSPA is a temporary measure is a subtle signal to Omar Abdullah that on this count they are one. Having said so, it will be unwise for Congress not to put its own house in order so that they emerge with a sizable number of MLAs in the elections. In politics nobody has permanent friends or foes. Congress is destined to play perhaps a second fiddle, if so then why not to change partner and go with PDP if they come up with a viable alternative. Congress for all practical purposes has lost ground in the State since 1975. To share power without which it perhaps cannot, it will have to switch sides, unfortunately with those with whom it has divergent political ideology. This is the tragedy of the Grand Old Party in the State. How well it would have been taken if Soz had said that the State Congress will like to remain in opposition but not compromise on its principles and political ideology. Alas those times of clean politics are now gone, it is opportunism and nothing else that it has been reduced to.

BEHEADING DOES NOT MATTER TO GEELANI

A police constable goes to his home on a holiday. He earnestly wants to spend some time with his family. One day when he along with his wife goes to nearby forest in Kupwara to collect wood for fuel, a group of militants pounce upon them. In front of his wife, the police constable is beheaded. Imagine the scene and the ghastly contours of the mindset of militants who are hailed as the soldiers of Jihad. Not a ripple is raised, nobody cries for the policeman. Geelanis heart does not stir a bit nor the eye brows of other separatists are twitched a bit at this sinister crime against humanity. This is the great and large hearted dimension of people like Geelani and others who are instigating poor and ignorant Kashmiris to join terror. The result is for all to see only beheadings, killings, and mayhem. Should not such separatists be tried for war crimes for inciting passions and treason? Our hearts go to the wife and children of the poor constable. His wife had to endure what she had never dreamt in life. Was it the justice of Jihad or madness of deranged minds, only likes of Geelani will have to explain? RANASAHIB

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CONTD
hospital but whenever there is requirement subsequently we will order them." Dr. Nisar ul Hassan, President Doctors' Association of Kashmir (DAK) said it is mandatory to keep lifesaving vaccines available at every district hospital. "If first dose is delayed to the victim, the chances of rabies are high which ultimately results in his death," he said. "Whosoever says that we will order the vaccines if required, should be booked under medical criminal cases for the loss of life caused due to absence of these lifesaving drugs," Dr. Nisar added.

2
and harmony in these sensitive polling stations and the polling is going smooth at all places in Kargil Except at two polling stations, where small scuffles were reported and polling was stopped for some minutes and later polling goes smooth. Deputy Commissioner and SSP Kargil thanked the people of Kargil for making this Polling for the 3rd LAHDC general Election smooth and Free and fair. The Counting will take place on 28th of August and by 2nd of September the New members of LAHDC will from the new Council.

CONTINUATION
India says ..
Manmohan Singh was precisely for these points, he said. "The steps that are required to reduce tensions, to build confidence, to improve relations - I think that would help in bridging the trust deficit," Mr Chaudhry said. On the ceasefire violations on the Line of Control, he said there are channels available for investigation. "From our side we have offered to the Indian side that if these channels are used optimally, it would serve the intent of observing ceasefire and the Prime Minister has even offered that if the Indian side feels that these channels are not sufficiently robust, then we are ready to discuss modalities to further strengthen them," Mr Chaudhry said. Asked about the killing of a Pakistan Army captain on the LoC yesterday, he said it was a matter of "grave concern". The Foreign Office yesterday summoned the Indian Deputy High Commissioner and lodged a protest over the incident. "We believe the Indian government needs to look at the policy that the leadership of Pakistan has pursued in terms of the need for restraint and responsibility, and dialogue in the spirit that it is meant," he said. Asked by a local journalist if seeking peace with India was Pakistan's weakness, Mr Chaudhry said the desire for peace by the country's leadership is a "very wise approach". "Responding to provocations with provocations does not serve the purpose of peace. However, at the same time, the people, leadership and institutions of Pakistan are quite capable of defending their territory and their interests," he said. "Our policy of restraint and responsibility is the only and best way to serve the interest of the region. It should not be construed as a weakness."

OVER 60% ..
Election Authority/Deputy Commissioner Kargil Fida Hussain inspected voting booths in Town Area and SSP Kargil inspected with a team of Officers various Super Hyper Sensitive Polling Stations and talking to our correspondent SSP told that there is peace

Videshi degrees, desi shores

involve a semester or more on the overseas campus of the foreign university, the official said. In 2009, the U.K.-based Leeds-Metropolitan University became the first foreign university to establish a higher-education, offshore campus in collaboration with the non-profit Jagran Social Welfare Society (JSWS). However, barely had its first batch graduated, than it came to light that their degrees were not recognised by the AICTE. A group of outraged students dragged the university to court, but were disappointed when the court ruled against them, stating that the admission brochure had no mention of the degree being recognised by the AICTE. Education counsellors say that students should always ensure that the university they are applying to is officially recognised. Students can also approach bodies such as the AICTE and the Association of Indian Universities for further inquiries. Education counsellor Viral Doshi says that lack of accreditation means that such degrees are not recognised in India, so students may face difficulties if they wish to pursue further studies in India. However, he adds that most students who take up such courses intend going abroad, where their degrees are recognised and may even put them at an advantage compared to students who have completed their degree, especially an undergraduate course, from an Indian university. Charu Mittal, who completed B.A. (Hons) in Business Studies from De Montfort University in the U.K. through the Daly College Business School Indore, agrees. I always wanted to go abroad and this seemed like a good way of preparing myself. I spent two years in the Indian campus and then went to the U.K. for my final year. This meant that I was somewhat shielded from the culture shock in a new environment, while getting my degree abroad. After completing her undergraduate studies, Mittal completed her MBA from the University of Coventry, U.K., and started working in the country. Placement hurdles Job placement, however, is not easy. The institute had a placement unit that helped students prepare for interviews and suggested places where they could apply, says Mittal. However, students were responsible for finding jobs. For many students, this is a herculean task. In an online discussion on pursuing such courses, several students from these institutes complained about the lack of placements. Doshi feels that companies in India do not approach these institutes for hiring as they are not recognised. However, students may find the course useful if they are looking at placements abroad. Moreover, some universities are recognised globally, and if a student has completed his/her education from such an institute, employers would tend to take notice. Besides, the concept of overseas institutes offering qualifications through offshore campuses is not new. It has been practised with much success in several countries, most notably Singapore. In fact, many Indian students have gone to Singapore for pursuing courses from universities in the U.K., U.S. and Australia, among others. Samyuktha Reddy, who pursued a bachelors in Business Management from the Royal Melbourne University of Technology through an offshore campus in Singapore, says, If such arrangements come to India, students would get the opportunity to pursue a foreign degree at a cheaper cost, in a culturally familiar environment. I went to Singapore for the same reason it was cheaper and culturally Asian. Doshi corroborates that it is a fantastic option, if it gets the proper validation. Such courses are close to 50 per cent cheaper than the same course overseas. At the same time, students get to spend up to a year abroad. If implemented properly with tight quality controls, it will be the best of both worlds for students. Currently, these colleges are drawing flak from educationists and counsellors alike. Education Consultant Karan Gupta says Students consider these institutes mainly because they do not have good grades to make it to Indian colleges. If students cannot get admission into a good college in India they should do distance learning and work at the same time. However, Doshi is a bit more optimistic. Although few and far between, there are some foreign institutes that do offer good programmes in collaboration with Indian institutes, such as the Schulich School of Business, London School of Economics, Lancaster University and Raffles, among others. The government has set up an ambitious target of increasing the gross enrolment ratio (the number of students enrolling for education) from 18 to 30 per cent by 2020. This translates to an estimated 40 million students enrolling for higher education in the coming years.

DR KAMAAL ..
solidarity with the locals cutting across party and religious lines. Others present included Sheikh Bashir Ahmad Provincial Secretary , Th. Kashmir Singh Ex -MLC and S. Peter, Farooq Mughal Political Advisor to Dr. Sheikh Mustafa Kamaal, Bushan Lal Bhat Ex- MLC, Nar Singh State Central labour Union , Karan Singh

ARMY THRASHES ..
such type of incident have really occurred or not," he said. Colonel Ashok from 50 RR said on phone that some miscreants pelted stones on a patrolling party and Army exercised restraint and called the respectable citizens of the area who claimed that even parents don't have control over these children. "It is absolutely baseless that Army resorted to aerial firing. The fact is that some miscreants pelted stones on us. It has become a routine for them to indulge in stone pelting and today we called a meeting in which respectable citizens participated. They assured us that in future no miscreant would be allowed to resort to stone-pelting on Army," Colonel Ashok said adding few days ago such miscreants also pelted stones on the cavalcade of a Minister.

Ceasefire violated ..
last night twice violate ceasefire by firing mortar shells at LoC posts in separate sub-sectors of Poonch district, drawing retaliation from Indian troops, Palta said. Firing on several Indian posts in Hamirpur sub-sector along the LoC started at 9:30 pm last night, he said. Troops from across the LoC opened fire with automatic weapons and medium mortar shells, he said. "Our troops retaliated effectively and the exchanges continued till 10:30 pm," he added. Pakistan troops had also fired at Indian posts in the Mendhar sub-sector of Poonch at around 10:30 pm. The firing there continued till 11:00 pm, Palta said. However, the Pakistan Army today claimed one of its soldiers was killed in firing by Indian troops on the Line of Control (LoC). A senior military official said the latest casualty occurred in Rakhcahri sector of the LoC near Rawalakot, in Poonch. "Sepoy Habib (was killed) due to unprovoked firing," the official said on condition of anonymity. Yesterday, an army captain was killed in shelling by Indian troops. Pakistan protested the incident by summoning the Indian Deputy High Commissioner to the Foreign Office. The latest death was reported shortly after the lower house of Pakistan's parliament passed a resolution that deplored the death of the captain as an "act of aggression" and called for a "constructive" engagement with India. The Pakistani Parliament expressed concern over the violation of the ceasefire and called for a constructive engagement with India. This is the second time in a month that Pakistan has passed a resolution condemning India. Earlier this month, Pakistan had passed a resolution accusing Indian troops of unprovoked aggression on the LoC.

GOVT TO ..
Kathua, Barota in Samba, Makwal in Jammu, Jordian and Bakore in Akhnoor, Majalta in Udhampur during his visit to these and other areas in the districts of Kathua, Udhampur, Samba and Jammu to receive first hand appraisal of the damages caused by the floods in these areas. The Chief Minister inspected flood damages at Chang Ghatti, Barota, Ujh, Babey Majalta, Dansal, Madeen, Jindhra, Khore, Bakore, Akhnoor, Makwal and other places in Jammu. The Chief Minister also had aerial appraisal of various other flood-hit areas in these districts. The Chief Minister assured the people of all possible help from the State Government and said that he has already directed the administration to formulate damage assessment reports. He said the administration has also been sensitized about the promptness regarding rescue, relief and rehabilitation of affected families. Minister for PHE and Flood Control, Sham Lal Sharma and Minister of State for Revenue, Ajaz Ahmad Khan were accompanying the Chief Minister. Deputy Chief Minister, Tara Chand also joined the Chief Minister in Akhnoor area.

CHENNAI, AUGUST 22: Foreign universities are setting up campuses in India. But what is in store for Indian students, with some of these courses not being recognised here? Foreign universities offering courses in India have been around for nearly 10 years. However, with The Foreign Educational Institution (Regulation of Entry and Operation) Bill, 2010, gathering dust in Parliament, there is hardly any regulatory regime to oversee the functioning of such institutes. No accreditation Today, more than 100 foreign institutions, mainly from the U.K., are operating in India. However, in the absence of adequate regulatory mechanisms, many of these institutions are not accredited by the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) the only official body which has notified regulations for the entry and operation of foreign universities. According to a list of institutions approved by the AICTE under the Foreign University Regulations, fewer than 10 foreign universities have an approval from the council to collaborate with Indian institutes. An official from the regional office of the AICTE, who did not wish to be named, said that although the office had not received proposals from foreign universities, it had got several requests from local institutes wanting to sign MOUs with foreign universities for collaborative programmes. However, only a small percentage of these had managed to get accreditation. We do a thorough check on institutes to ensure that students are provided with the necessary infrastructure and that the MOU is valid, especially because many such programmes

SYRIAN WAR DISPLACES 1 MILLION CHILDREN, UN SAYS

BEIRUT, AUGUST 22: The number of Syrian children who have fled war in their homeland has now reached 1 million, as the conflict has entered its third year, two UN agencies said on Friday. This 1 millionth child refugee is not just another number, UNICEF Executive Director Anthony Lake said. This is a real child ripped from home, maybe even from a family, facing horrors we can only begin to comprehend. We must all share the shame because while we work to alleviate the suffering of those affected by this crisis, the global community has failed in its responsibility to this child, Mr. Lake said. UNICEF and the UN refugee agency warned that the 29-month conflict has exacted a high price from children. What is at stake is nothing less than the survival and well-being of a generation of innocents, refugee High Commissioner Antonio Guterres said. The youth of Syria are los-

EXCEPT SKIMS, .
which is the sole hospital where some Anti-Venom vaccines are available to cater entire Valley. "There are so many people who die from venomous snakebites as such people, though living in remote areas can't make it to SKIMS on time," Farooq Ahmad, who worked at Help Poor Voluntary Trust said. He said the toxins in the venom of snakes like cobras and Kraits slowly paralyze their victims, who ultimately die of suffocation. "A child from Chitragul, Anantnag was bitten by snake last week. He was shifted to SubDistrict Hospital Anantnag but due to the absence of life saving vaccine in the hospital he was shifted to SMHS Hospital, Srinagar and later to SKIMS, Soura". The bite of a cobra or any other dangerous snake can paralyze its victims. It is estimated that more than 75 percent of patients in India who die from snakebites never make it to the hospital. When contacted Medical Superintendent, SMHS, Hospital Nazir Ahmad Chowdary said: "As of date, we do not have Anti-Venom vaccine in our

POLICE FOILS .
JCC leaders to solve all those issues pertaining to sixth pay commission in a time bound manner. However, the government failed to do so," an employee leader told KNS. JCC president Abdul Qayoom Wani told KNS that if state government will not fulfil their demands immediately the next protests will be massive. "The protest will shake the roots of this government. We won't be responsible for that," he added. The state employees will observe strike tomorrow. All the government offices will remain closed for the day, he added.

ing their homes, their family members and their futures, he said. Even after they have crossed a border to safety, they are traumatised, depressed

and in need of a reason for hope. Children make up half of all refugees from Syrias conflict, and the latest figures showed that about 740,000 Syrian

refugees are under the age of 11, the two agencies said. The Syrian civil war, in which rebels are trying to oust President Bashar al-Assad has displaced

about 6.8 million people, including 4.2 million inside the country, the UN said in July. More than 100,000 people have been killed in the war, it said.

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STUDENT AGE FRIDAY, AUGUST 23, 2013

STATE

3
SRINAGAR, AUGUST 22 Minister for Agriculture, Mr Ghulam Hassan Mir on Thursday directed the executing agencies to complete all on-going projects in Tangmarg Constituency within the prescribed time limit for benefits of these schemes to reach common masses at the earliest. The direction to this effect was given by the Minister during his day long tour to the far flung areas of his constituency to take on-the- spot stock of the development works and to address the grievances of the people. The villages, the Minister visited include Gonipora, Ratnipora, Bungam, Parsiwan, Ganiwani, Dharakhasi and Gogaldara. During the tour, the Minister said that adequate funds are available for all the on-going projects and stressed upon the concerned executing agencies to speed up the construction work. He asked them to personally monitor

CM visits flood-hit areas of Kathua, Udhampur, Samba, Jammu

State to work out a comprehensive flood protection project to tame major rivers: Omar
SRINAGAR, AUGUST 22Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah on Thursday said that State Government would work out a comprehensive flood protection programme with the Union Government to tame all major rivers including Jhelum, Chenab, Ujh and Tawi to relieve the people of the repeated devastation caused by these rivers year after year in the State. The Chief Minister said that these rivers are causing great damage to the land, crops and property besides endangering human lives. "There is a need of formulating a well-drafted holistic plan to tame these and rivers and ensure protection from floods", he said maintaining that the State Government would seek liberal Central assistance in the implementation of this stupendous programme. The Chief Minister was talking to flood affected people at Chang Ghatti in Kathua, Barota in Samba, Makwal in Jammu, Jordian and Bakore in Akhnoor, Majalta in Udhampur during his visit to these and other areas in the

Govt to seek Rs. 84 cr under Mir tours Tangmarg Constituency, BRGF, Rs. 55 cr under takes stock of development works RGPSA from GoI: Sagar

districts of Kathua, Udhampur, Samba and Jammu to receive first hand appraisal of the damages caused by the floods in these areas. The Chief Minister inspected flood damages at Chang Ghatti, Barota, Ujh, Babey Majalta, Dansal, Madeen, Jindhra, Khore, Bakore, Akhnoor, Makwal and other places in Jammu. The Chief Minister also had aerial appraisal of various other flood-hit areas in these districts. The Chief Minister assured the people of all possible help from the State

Government and said that he has already directed the administration to formulate damage assessment reports. He said the administration has also been sensitized about the promptness regarding rescue, relief and rehabilitation of affected families. Minister for PHE and Flood Control, Sham Lal Sharma and Minister of State for Revenue, Ajaz Ahmad Khan were accompanying the Chief Minister. Deputy Chief Minister, Tara Chand also joined the Chief Minister in Akhnoor area.

SRINAGAR, AUGUST 22 To boost development of Backward Districts of the State, Minister for Rural Development & Panchayat Raj, Mr Ali Mohammad Sagar on Thursday said that an amount of Rs. 84 crore under current year's plan under the Backward Regions Grant Fund (BRGF) has been sent to Union Government for allocation. The Plan has already been approved by State Empowered Committee under the programme recently. The Minister said this at a

Shabir inaugurates workshop on RMNCH

JAMMU, AUGUST 22:- A two-day workshop on development of strategic approach to Reproductive Maternal New Born Child and Adolescent Health (RMNCH), a Sub-Plan for High Priority Districts of Jammu and Kashmir, was organized by department of Health and Family Welfare in collaboration with National Rural Health Mission (NRHM), Norway India Partnership Initiative (NIPI) and United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) here on Thursday. Minister of State for Health, Shabir Ahmed Khan inaugurated the work shop. Director Health Services, Jammu, B.S. Pathania, Mission Director Rural Health Mission (NRHM), Dr. Yash Pal Sharma, Deputy Director (HQ), Health Services, Dr. Baldev Sharma, Director NIPI, Dr. Kali Prasad Pappu, Chief Medical Officer, Jammu, Dr. Javed Rana, Programme Managers from Doda, Kishtwar, Rajouri, Poonch, Ramband, Leh besides CMOs, BMOs and senior functionaries of the department were present on the occasion. Speaking on the occasion,

high level meeting convened to review the Physical and financial achievements of the department here this afternoon. The Meeting was attended by Chief Secretary, M.I .Khanday, Principal Secretary, Finance Mr B.B Vyas, Commissioner Secretary Rural Development, Farooq Ahmad Peer, Director, Rural Development, Kashmir Mr. Altaf Ahmad, Deputy Commissioners of Doda and Kupwara districts, Prof. Alam from IMPA, Assistant C o m m i s s i o n e r s Development of BRGF districts. Threadbare discussion were held on various issues including proper implementation and judicious use of funds under Backward Regions Grant Fund, Rashtriya Gram Sawaraj yojna (RGSY), Rajiv Gandhi Panchayat Sashaktikaran Abhyian(RGPSA) schemes and e- Panchayat.

the works regularly and resolve bottlenecks, if any so that construction work does not get hampered and delayed. At Darakasi, the Minister assured the people that construction work on Bunkoal road would be taken next year under PMGSY and approach road for the bridge would be completed within one week adding that Zandpal road would also be taken under PMGSY soon.

He said that filtration plant at Bunkul is being revamped and will be completed by the end of September, 2013 to provide filtered drinking water to the people of the area.. At Gogaldara, the Minister directed the R&B to macadamize the inner links of 2km road length of the area at the earliest and also start earth work of the 4Km road length from Chohan Mohalla to Poshakar.

Red Cross plays a supportive role in relief and rehabilitation of the flood effected families
SRINAGAR/JAMMU AUGUST 22 -Red Cross has played a supportive role in relief and rehabilitation of the flood effected families in Jammu. When the floods hit the Jammu division, especially the districts of Jammu, Kuthua, Samba, Udhampur and Pounch, each Deputy Commissioner in his role as Chairman District Red Cross Committee immediately distributed tents, blankets, kitchen sets along with rations from Red Cross funds. Red Cross is also grateful to the Chamber of Commerce of Samba and the people of the State for their humanitarian contribution in rehabilitating the effected families. On the directions of Honorary General Secretary Indian Red Cross JK, Ms. Roma Wani, a truck load of relief material was also sent from Srinagar to support the efforts of Divisional Commissioner Jammu.

Mian Altaf for raising awareness on need, importance of plantation

Shabir said that this is for the first time that such informative workshop is being organized in the state which has immense importance in upgrading and improving our health structure in the state. He appreciated NIPI and UNDP for doing yeomen service towards providing technical support to six high priority districts identified by Government of India. The Minister further stated that these workshops are aimed at to keep a check on health indicators like Infant Mortality Rate (IMR), Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) and Total Fertility Rate (TFR) and with the technical support of NIPI and UNDP the IMR, MMR and TFR rate has recorded significant decrease. Shabir said that our state has witnessed substantial growth in health sector due to serious efforts and keen interest of Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare, Ghulam Nabi Azad. Director Health Services, Jammu, gave a power point presentation on activities of the department. He said that Border Cluster District Programme, RCH-1, RCH-2, NRHM besides numerous reforms have been launched in the state to provide upgraded health infrastructure. He also threw light on goals and prospective needs of the workshop which would help in removing weak links and to overcome the shortcomings. He apprised that our health indicators are one of the best indicators in the country. Mission Director National Rural Health Mission also spoke on the occasion and expressed gratitude to the Center for identifying Doda, Kishtwar, Rajouri, Poonch, Ramban and Leh as priority districts. He appreciated the efforts of development partners from NIPI for providing technical support to the department. JAMMU, AUGUST 22Minister for Forests, Environment & Ecology J&K State Mian Altaf Ahmad impressed upon the functionaries of Social Forestry Department to organize massive awareness programmes on need and importance of plantation for survival of mankind. He was speaking at the 64th 'Van Mahotsava' function organized by Social Forestry Department at SOS Hermans Geminar SchoolJammu here on Thursday. The Minister said that nature has bestowed Jammu and Kashmir with abundant natural wealth which needs to be preserved for posterity. He said that forests and human beings are inter dependent for their survival and it is our prime duty to that in view of the growing requirements of people especially in rural areas in respect of Fodder, Fuel, wood and timber, the department has a very significant role to play. He asked the officers of different wings of the department to work in coordination so that benefits of different schemes of the government reach the targeted populace. He exhorted upon the department to further intensify their efforts of increasing green cover and meeting the requirements of the people especially in rural areas. Later, he also planted a sapling of Accica Gulaica tree. It was informed that the department will cover an area of 486.67 ha with plantation of 4.964 lakh plants during this monsoon season.

DC reviews Janamashtami arrangements

KAS probationers meet Div Com

JAMMU, AUGUST 22KAS Probationers of 2013 batch on Thursday called Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Shantmanu and discussed various issues. The Divisional Commissioner exhorted upon the probationers to maintain personal integrity and be accessible to the stakeholders. Shantmanu asked these officers that they should be open to positive suggestions and consider innovative solutions. He said that the primary role of officers should be to redress the grievances of the general public with all efficiency and sincerity. He asked them to take impartial decisions for better services to the community as service to community is service to God He also provided many suggestions for improving the training course.

preserve the forests besides focusing on plantation of more and more trees. Mian Altaf lauded the role of Social Forestry department

in taking up plantations which is of utmost importance at present in view of increasing population and rapid urbanization. He said

Dr Manohar inspects State Motor Garages, reviews functioning of SRTC, SMG, RTO
SRINAGAR, AUGUST 22: Underlining the need for conducting workshops at district, block and tehsil levels to sensitize drivers about the driving rules and disastrous consequences of rash and negligent driving besides streamlining and easing the issuance of driving licenses, the Minister of State for Finance, Planning and Transport, Dr. Manohar Lal Sharma emphasized upon the authorities of Transport Department to improve traffic regulations in order to contain road accidents. Minister was reviewing the functioning of Transport Department at an officers meeting here on Thursday. Secretary Transport, Mehraj Ahmad Kakroo, Transport Commissioner, Sanjiv Verma, Director State Motor Garages, G. A. Sofi, MD, State Road Transport Commissioner has been asked to identify the land for the purpose. The meeting was informed that Rs. 140 crore revenue generation has been targeted for current financial year while the RTO has earned Rs. 125 crore during previous fiscal. MD, STRC was asked to improve workshop inventory and operation and make sure that vehicles coming for repairs are set right in minimum possible time. Regarding manpower shortage at SRTC, State Motor Garages and RTO office, the Minister asked Secretary to take up the matter with SSRB and get all the vacancies, referred to them, filled in time bound manner. Later, the Minister visited State Motor Garages, Bemina and took stock of the working of the department. He went round different mechanical units and asked the concerned to work with full dedication. Stressing for making the vehicles road worthy in shortest possible time, the Minister asked concerned heads of the units to keep in account the importance of the time and administrative needs. The employees apprised the Minister about their difficulties and put forth certain demands pertaining to promotion, two and a half days salary, Uniform and provision of staff bus facilities for the employees. The Minister assured them that all genuine demands would be looked into and asked Director to come up with recommendations in support of the demands of the employees so that matter is taken up with concerned Ministries.

Rs 140 crore revenue generation targeted for this year

KISHTWAR, AUGUST 22- Deputy Commissioner, Kishtwar, Baseer Ahmed Khan on Thursday finalized arrangements for Shri Krishan Janam Ashthami and Shoba Yatra at a meeting with the representatives of Sanatan Dharam Sabha Kishtwar. The IGP Jammu and DIG DKR Range besides other officers participated in the meeting.

The Sanatan Dharam Sabha gave the details of the areas where the services of district administration and police are required for smooth and successful culmination of the festival. The DC assured the Sabha that all the arrangements regarding security, sanitation, medical facilities, drinking water and yatra route shall be put in place.

Corporation, Mr. Tandan, Joint Transport Commissioner Transport, Sheikh Fayaz Ahmad were present on the occasion. Secretary Transport gave detailed account of the working of the departments including State Road Transport Corporation, State Motor Garages and Regional Transport Office.

It was given out that several initiatives have already been taken to improve the working of the department and traffic regulations while ground work for setting up of two high tech driving Institutes at Jammu and Srinagar has been completed. It was informed that 100 kanals of land stands already identified at Jammu while in Srinagar the Deputy

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STUDENT AGE FRIDAY, AUGUST 23, 2013

EDUCATION AGE

4
two years of post-degree clinical (residency) training is required. Course areas of Biophysics include molecular biophysics, membrance biophysics, neurobiophysics, biophysical techniques, bioenergetics, medical biophysics. Personal Attributes : Biophysicists must have an aptitude for physics, biology and mathematics, and be able to pay close attention to detail. Interest in scientific phenomena, patience, perseverance, precision and tremendous inclination to search for real solutions is the strength of all bio physicists. Personal qualities of being able to think creatively and work independently as part of a professional and interdisciplinary team will be helpful. They should have excellent writing and computer skills, and have patience with and curiosity about the physical world. The motivation for scientific work should be intense, as often, sustained efforts to pursue research is required. JOB PROSPECTS & CAREER OPTIONS The field of Biophysics is the perfect choice for those who are fascinated by physics and biology. There are wide range of careers open for Biophysicists. Those with Ph.D have much scope for employment than graduates and post graduates. Career avenues include the following: A biophysicist can find employment as a biophysics researcher or scientist with research institutes or government organizations in various academic grades for research oriented programmes. A biophysicist can also find employment in a biophysics related industry. Biologically-oriented high-tech companies, pharmaceutical companies and the like will hire the services of a qualified and experienced biophysicist. A biophysicist can even find employment as a professor or member of faculty in a university, medical or dental college offering a program in biophysics. Forensics laboratories, chemical companies, foodprocessing plants, drug manufacturers, cosmetic industry, and manufacturers of agricultural chemicals (fertilizers, pesticides etc.) also employ biophysicists. There is a wide range of opportunities abroad in Biophysics, to carry on higher studies and to work. Some of the World class organisations that hire biophysicists are National Institute for Research in Reproductive health (NIRRH), Mumbai; All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi; Institute of Microbial Technology, Chandigarh; Indian Institute of Science (IISC), Bangalore and National Institute of Virology (ICMR), Pune. REMUNERATION The pay scale varies tremendously, based on your skill level and experience. However, even at the entry level, biophysics jobs offer good pay. Freshers can expect a pay scale of Rs. 15,000 to 20,000. With experience and performance it increases. Those in the research sector in universities, the pay scale is much lucrative including various allowances.

CAREER IN BIOPHYSICS
INTRODUCTION Biophysics is an interdependent science discipline that employs unique methods of physics and physical chemistry to acquire knowledge on the biological systems present in our world. It applies the principles of Physics and Chemistry and the methods of Mathematical Analysis and Computer Modeling to understand how biological systems work. Biophysics explains biological function in terms of the molecular structures and their properties. Biophysics is a bridge between biology and physics. This discipline is concerned with applications of the principles and methods of physical sciences to biological problems. Biophysics is one of the most fascinating and intellectually challenging fields of scientific study because it deals with humans. Biophysics has a great importance in all our lives today. Biophysics shares a strong bond with other advanced biological fields biochemistry, bioengineering, systems biology, nanotechnology, and agro physics, it can be said that Biological systems is the very root of all our existence. Biophysics incorporate the study of all levels of biological organization, from molecules to ecosystems. The main aspect of biophysics is the use of the ideas and methods of physics and chemistry to study and explain the structures of living organisms and the mechanisms of life processes. The applications of Biophysics depend on society's needs. One of the first major findings in biophysics was the discovery of the double helix structure of the DNA molecule in 1953. Biophysics helped create powerful vaccines against infectious diseases. Biophysical methods are increasingly used to serve everyday needs, from forensic science to bioremediation. Medical imaging technologies including MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), CAT (Computed Axial Tomography) scans etc. are the invention of Biophysics. One who study the field of biophysics is known as Biophysicist. They study life at every level, from atoms and molecules to cells, organisms and environments. Biophysicists attempt to explain why our biophysical environment behaves as it does. Biophysicists study how organisms develop, see, hear, think and live. They investigate how the brain processes and stores information, the heart pumps blood, muscles contract, plants use light in photosynthesis, genes are switched on and off and many other questions. Biophysicists usually work with groups or teams of other scientists and professionals with other backgrounds to collaborate on solving common problems. For example, they work along with those in medical and criminology fields to find solutions to various problems they come across. The major areas of biophysics are the following: * Molecular biophysics -is the study of large molecules and particles of comparable size which play important roles in biology. * Radiation biophysics- consists of the study of the response of organisms to ionizing radiations, such as alpha, beta, gamma and x-rays and to ultraviolet light. * Physiological biophysics- called by some as Classical biophysics, is con-

cerned with the use of physical mechanisms to explain the behavior and the functioning of living organisms or parts of living organisms and with the response of living organisms to physical forces. * Mathematical and theoretical biophysics- deals primarily with the attempt to explain the behavior of living organisms on the basis of mathematics and physical theory. * Medical biophysics - deals with the study that uses physics to describe or effect biological process largely for the purpose of medical application. The areas of research combining Physics and physiology include medical imaging such as MRI, computed tomography and PET (Positron emission tomography); oncology and cancer diagnosis using radiolabelling and molecular imaging; and vasculature and circulatory system

function. ELIGIBILITY Educational : Eligibility for those who intend to pursue biophysics career is that they must basically have an undergraduate degree with Physics, Biology and Chemistry. Some institutes also offer undergraduate programmes with special attention given to biophysics. In India, however there are only few universities that offer courses in biophysics at the undergraduate level. Most biophysicists begin their career with a four-year Bachelor of Science degree in Biophysics, and then go on to earn a master's and a PhD in physics or a sub-discipline of physics. Biophysicists who wish to do research generally need to obtain a PhD and spend one to five years in post-doctoral research in a university or government laboratory. In medical biophysics, one to

Colleges to have disabled-friendly DUSU poll booths

NEW DELHI: With the Delhi University Students' Union (DUSU) elections scheduled next month, authorities have directed colleges to ensure that polling booths are disabled-friendly, so that students with disability can vote. "We have issued notices to the principals of the colleges to provide adequate facilities for students with disabilities so that they can participate freely in the democratic process of the varsity," said Bipin Tiwari, duty officer, DU Equal Opportunity Cell. "The provisions that the colleges are asked to comply with are mandatory under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability, the 2007 order of the Supreme Court and the letter (in this regard) of the Election Commission of India," Tiwari said. Among the facilities the colleges are expected to provide are: Free access to polling booth, location of booths on the ground floor, wheelchair facility, sign language interpreter for students with hearing impairment and adequate volunteers to assist disabled students. The Delhi University Students' Union (DUSU) polls this year will be held Sep 13.

Pitroda calls for educational reforms

KOLKATA: Sam Pitroda, adviser to Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Thursday voiced concern over the quality of education in India and called for educational reforms by replacing age-old systems and changing mindsets. Some people in authority are living in the dark ages, he said. "Leaving aside the top five percent universities, I feel the quality of education in India is pretty bad and I say it with a great deal of concern," Pitroda said at the first convocation of Presidency University. The advisor to the prime minister on public information infrastructure and innovations - known for heralding the telecom revolution in India - accused some in the ministries concerned and educational authorities of "living in the dark ages". "How to think out of the box and restructure education? This is where mindset comes in... The mindset of government, the ministries and UGC (University Grants Commission) is just not changing fast enough... Some of these people are living in dark ages," he said. "I am quite concerned about our abilities to focus on reforms and development," he said. Pitroda, however, lauded the government for focusing on "democratisation of information" through the right to public information, and ensuring connectivity of the panchayats. Describing technology as the key driver for development, he said it was time India focused on restructuring educational institutions "and not take great pride in old model (of education). The old model is about to die. "We need to create a new model of learning and fortunately web offers great deal of opportunities. "Institutions all over the world are in crisis...major crisis...and these institutions are in need of major reforms," he said. Drawing attention to the National Knowledge Network that seeks to interconnect knowledge institutions with gigabyte capabilities for sharing and research, Pitroda rued that people "don't capitalise on it". "It is the challenge of mindset. We have this huge bandwidth but we don't capitalise on it. Technology has a great role to play in modern university systems. We go to take some risks, experiment and learn to fail." He also highlighted the need for teachers to deliver as mentors. "Today most teachers spend their talent in creating content and delivering content. I don't think we need teachers to create content and nor do I need teachers to deliver content. "Teachers need to be mentors but most of the teachers are not trained to be mentors. So there's a disconnect," Laying emphasis on the role of universities to create jobs and entrepreneurs, Pitroda stressed the need to create wealth. "The need of the hour is to create wealth. It is one thing to do research and development and it is another to innovate. "Teachers do little research and scientists don't teach. We need to couple our universities with our industries," explained Pitroda. According to Pitroda, India needs to tap into its best brains to solve problems at the grassroot levels as the country has the largest amount of poor in the world.

IGNOU's new booklet to clear doubts of applicants

NEW DELHI: To clear doubts over its courses and admission process, the Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has launched a booklet compiling frequently asked questions (FAQ), officials said on Thursday. Of the 10 chapters in the booklet, the first eight chapters deal with issues like registration, practical examinations, assignments, etc. Chapter nine answers queries on courses being offered by the varsity, which are structured differently from conventional ones. Chapter ten is on the open distance learning system of IGNOU. "It was observed that learners, including prospective applicants as well as alumni, guardians, teachers and other stakeholders, had many misgivings regarding the norms and procedures, rules and regulations followed in the University," IGNOU said in a statement. "This booklet is going to provide useful compilation and act as a reference material for all the full-time and parttime functionaries of IGNOU," it said. "It contains questions sent by learners and varsity functionaries from all over the country, along with the answers." The FAQ e-book is uploaded on the University's websitewww.ignou.ac.in under the "Student Zone" tab on the home page. IGNOU is the world's largest open university system, with a pan-India and international reach. It allows flexible entry qualifications, and a wide range of academic programmes, at an affordable cost.

UPSC changes pattern, to opt for shorter answers

HYDERABAD: The Union Public Services Commission (UPSC) has changed the answering pattern in its exam, with students now having to write in a consolidated question paper-cum-answer book. Instructions would ask candidates to write the answers only in the pre-defined areas below each part/sub part of the questions. Students are being told that 'any attempt outside the pre-defined space shall not be evaluated'. "This is a major departure from the conventional free answer type of essay writing which was being followed for the longest time. The new pattern will help people from technical backgrounds as they are used to a point-wise presentation," said Gopala Krishna, director of BrainTree, an institution which trains candidates for the UPSC exams. "The UPSC seems to have borrowed from the USA model which follows the short answer type of questions in its recruitment. This would benefit many who did not have the need to hone their English skills due to their choice of technical subjects in graduation," he added. The new pattern would also mean that students will not be allowed to take home the question paper. The UPSC will, however, provide the question paper after the examination is over

In JNU, gender studies to be compulsory

NEW DELHI: Jawarharlal Nehru University will be introducing gender studies as a compulsory credit course across all programmes if the recommendations of a 10-member committee formed to probe what led to the July 31 murder of a female student inside the classroom by her classmate are to be implemented. The committee is likely to submit its report on Monday. It is also likely to propose a separate centre for students' counselling and decentralization of the counselling system on the campus. Until recently, JNU was known as one of the safest campuses in the city where even during student union elections there would be no police deployment and female students were seen moving about without fear of assault. But the July murder has alerted the JNU community to the need for greater gender sensitivity as well as security. The 10-member committee, instituted by the vice-chancellor, consulted a large number of students, faculty members and non-teaching staff during a series of public discussions in hostels and other campus pockets. "The event has made everyone sit up and take note. So many apparently-insignificant incidents were earlier ignored as aberrations. These are now being taken seriously. The committee is likely to finalize its report by this week and submit it to the administration on Monday along with a series of recommendations," said a member of the committee. Members also feel that a 24X7 in-house counseling facility is an urgent requirement besides continuous gender sensitization initiatives on the campus. Although the committee felt it is not possible to place every activity under surveillance and put up metal detectors and CCTVs at all points, "security arrangements should be reviewed and stepped up", a member said.

Patna University yet to declare exams results

PATNA: Even as Patna University (PU) is striving hard to maintain its academic calendar, the results of various undergraduate and postgraduate examinations of 2013 are still pending. Most of these examinations were conducted three months back. The results of MSc zoology and statistics and MA Hindi and geography final year examinations (old course) have not been published so far though the examination results of other subjects have been published. Similarly, the results of BA, BSc & BCom Part I examinations are yet to be published. The examinations were held in the month of May. The BA examination is still going on and the LLB final semester examination is scheduled to commence from Aug 22. PU examination controller B K Jamuar said that all the pending examinations would be completed by the end of the current month. The pending examination results would be published by the first week of Sept. The results of these examinations could not be published in time owing to some technical reasons, he said. Jamuar pointed out that the delay in publication of examination results is mainly due to failure of some examiners to turn up for evaluation of answer-books. Appointment of fresh examiners takes time and the entire process of evaluation gets delayed. Moreover, the examination section of the university has also been facing shortage of staff for the last several years, causing great hardship in the conduct of examinations, evaluation of answer-books and publication of results. PU conducts more than 200 examinations in a year and the number has increased considerably following the introduction of semester system.

India to build library for Nepali academicians

KATHMANDU: India has agreed provide NRs.4.41 crore to build a three-storied library for the Nepal Academy. The Indian embassy, the department of urban development and building construction and the Nepal Academy signed a memorandum of understanding under the India-Nepal Economic Cooperation Programme on Thursday. Established in 1957, Nepal Academy is a premier national institution for promotion of languages, literature, culture, philosophy, research and development of intellectual fields by bringing together and coordinating national and international activities. The Academy does not have a library. The new library building will provide better facilities to researchers and academicians of Nepal for research and reference of invaluable books. Besides the library, five projects in Kathmandu district have already been completed with Indian assistance. Work is going on in 12 others at a cost of NRs.42.73 crore. India has also gifted 31 ambulances, 26 school buses and three special medical vans to various organisations in its northern neighbour. India has also undertaken construction of a trauma centre in Kathmandu at an estimated cost of NRs.160 crore. Arrangements are being made to operationalise the centre soon.

Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya will run without NAAC accreditation this year
INDORE: Apparently the D e v i A h i l y a Vi s h w a v i d y a l a y a (DAVV) will run without NAAC tag this year as NAAC's peer team visit is not scheduled at varsity till mid-Dec 2013. The National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) grading for the varsity is expiring midSeptember but the varsity's name is missing from the list of 59 institutions where the team would visit by Dec 14, 2013. The varsity has applied for re-accreditation in the beginning of this year and believed that the team will visit the varsity by September. To keep up with the pace, the varsity is leaving no stone unturned for inspection preparations. The varsity is almost finished with internal quality assurance cell. It has documented works done by the varsity in past five years and all HoDs have been asked to submit self study report of their department. As of now, the varsity is graded 'B' by NAAC but the ambitious vicechancellor of DAVV DP Singh is eyeing Grade 'A' from NAAC this time.

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STUDENT AGE FRIDAY, AUGUST 23, 2013

EDITORIAL

HOPE HAS WINGS, AT LAST

With the landing of the C-130J Super Hercules aircraft on the world's highest airstrip at Daulat Beg Oldie, the Indian Air Force has bettered its own best record. The C-130s are among the most time-tested of transport planes, and by parking one of them on the worlds highest airfield, the IAF has set a new standard in global military aviation. But Tuesday's feat, carried out by the Veiled Vipers' squadron, is not just one for the record books; it is a tremendous boost to the operational capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces. The Air Force will now have all-year round access to this remote forward post on the India-China border that was in the news earlier this year for being violated by People's Liberation Army troops. Until now, the IAF could only deploy to Daulat Beg Oldie the An-32 a twin-engine turboprop military transport aircraft which could not perform fixed-wing operations throughout the year. Also, the C-130J aircraft which has four engines and can carry a load of 16 tonnes, translates into fewer flights to deliver more number of men and machines. This means that it will be much easier for the Air Force to meet the requirements of ground troops positioned in one of the country's most inhospitable regions. The C-130J's landing at Daulat Beg Oldie also signals that India will not tolerate external interference in internal operational matters. This is important given that China has opposed India's activation of forward posts in Ladakh the 20-day long face-off in April ended only after the Army took down the observation tower it had raised in Chumar, a post that has since been vandalised again in June by PLA troops. Moreover, if Tuesday's C-130J landing at Daulat Beg Oldie is followed up by renovations to the airstrip so as to allow for the landing of bigger aircraft, then it is a positive indicator that India will continue to develop key infrastructure projects along the Line of Actual Control, irrespective of so-called Chinese sensitivities. The need for India to keep up its guard along its contested border with China cannot be over-emphasised. That even as the country celebrated the C-130 success, reports of PLA troops having intruded into eastern Arunachal Pradesh's Chaglagam area last week, speak volumes. The Air Force's stellar achievement in Daulat Beg Oldie has been matched by the Navy which recently launched its first indigenously built aircraft-carrier ship, INS Vikrant. Once commissioned, this warship will dramatically increase the Navy's operational capabilities. However, here too Beijing's strong reaction to the achievement the state-run Chinese daily, Global Times, described it as a threat to the Middle Kingdom is a telling comment on the geopolitics of the region. But while India is not in the business of threatening anybody, least of all a powerful neighbour, it must also not shy away from augmenting its defence capabilities in order to protect its territorial integrity

WILL THE RUPEE SINK UPA'S FORTUNES?

The Government needs to take the nation in confidence about the economic woes so that austerity measures can be implemented soon
Will the slumping economy and the falling rupee become a major poll issue in the forthcoming Assembly and the Lok Sabha polls? For now, political parties seem to be strategising only on caste politics and communal/secular divide, without addressing issues like spiralling prices, inflation and slow economic growth that deeply affect the common man. The Congress is hoping that its welfare schemes like the food security Ordinance, MGNREGA will be a gamechanger, even as some regional parties clamber on the populist-scheme bandwagon to woo the electorate. The Indian economy is facing its worst-ever crisis. And Prime Minister Manmohan Singhs assertions that there is no question of going back to the 1991 situation, when the country had to go with a begging bowl to the International Monetary Fund, have failed to lift the gloom. Consider the depressing scenario: Industrial production has declined and economic growth was just five per cent last year, the lowest in the past decade. Inflation has touched dizzying heights; the manufacturing sector is static while the service and industrial sectors too have shrunk. The huge fiscal and current account deficits, expected to increase further after the implementation of the food security scheme and other welfare measures. The foreign exchange reserves are inadequate; the rupees steep fall amid fears that it may weaken further, touching 75 to a dollar has hit the financial sector and the stock markets. What has led to this situation? Worsening current account deficit and insufficient flow of foreign direct investments, despite promises of the continuation of the reforms, are two main reasons for the crisis. Reportedly, overseas investors have withdrawn about three billion dollars recently from the capital markets. Add to this the rising import bill and the depressing global economic scenario and the bleak picture is complete. It is not as if the Government has not done anything, but it

KALYANI SHANKAR
is not enough or timely. The Reserve Bank of India has come out with its own set of remedial measures, but these steps have not been effective. The Government hiked import duty on gold and silver to contain inflation, but the yellow metal being smuggled in from Dubai via Sri Lanka and Nepal, is proving counterproductive. Union Minister for Finance P Chidambaram is making bold attempts to reduce Government expenditure by borrowing, but doubts persist on whether the targets will be met. The Opposition has got an issue to beat the Congressled UPA with. The CPI(M), which blocked economic reforms in UPA1, blames the Government for the high current account deficit and its neo-liberal policies. The BJP chief Rajnath Singh blamed, the Government for failing to take effective steps to revive, restart and recharge the economic situation in the country. The JD(U) has urged the Centre to strengthen the infrastructure rather than concentrate on foreign investment. The question is why did the Government not see what was coming? There is clearly a lack of direction and economic vision. The Government is in denial but country should be told of the

real crisis so that austerity measures could be adopted and implemented expeditiously. Did we not do that in 1991? Black money stashed away in foreign banks should be brought back, and voluntary disclosure scheme initiated to tide over the crisis in the immediate future. It is imperative to build investor confidence and restore the countrys sagging image. Also, Indian industrialists should be barred from investing abroad and instead be persuaded to put their money in India. A more amenable and productive economy would be the best way to deal with the fiscal and current account deficits. The political class too cannot evade responsibility for the present crisis. If Parliament had functioned properly these past four years, important legislations like the Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Bill could have been passed to improve economic growth. Political parties are vying with each other to launch populist schemes, in a game of oneupmanship. The poor and marginalised should be taken care of, but they should be helped to help themselves and not be dependent on doles. The falling rupee is a warning that it is every Indians responsibility to help build the countrys economic wealth and defend its standing in the comity of nations. China has proved that economic muscle gives the real power and global status.

ERA OF GLOOM AND DOOM IS UPON US

Philosophically speaking, yes, these difficult times of which most of us are simultaneously victims and perpetrators, shall also pass. But by then, so will a generation or two
A SURYA PRAKASH
To say that there is a general sense of gloom in the environment, is to state the obvious. What is amazing is how life continues to be as usual for the high and mighty of the land. The high-end restaurants continue to run packed, the airlines are full of business-class passengers, the roads are clogged with expensive cars and the political elite with, some notable exceptions, continues to be inaccessible, aloof as if to say that such things keep happening. The public domain is full of tokenism. There is an air of nonchalance. Official and classified files tend to disappear and when an occasional catch is made, alibis are available more easily than ever before. If there is a police encounter, it is fake; if there is a grisly act at the border, there are strenuous efforts to underplay it. Matters of rape and murder do not any longer make shrieking headlines. The response is a shrug or reconciliatory stoicism. The attraction for Western degrees remains unabated. Even for an academic to be recognised in the country, he must have foreign publications and foreign jaunts to his credit. How a nation as talented as Bharat and as populous as it is, has come to such straits is inexplicable! There was a time when the country had a moral reference point be it in Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, Vinoba Bhave or Jayaprakash Narayan. But that list has almost disappeared. Once in a while, one hears a name like Anna Hazare. His description by the serving Minister for Information and Broadcasting over a year ago, as the spokesperson of the ruling elite, would be in many memories. Statements like that are not made off the cuff or as an emotional outburst. They are carefully rehearsed and deliberately mouthed. The Anna Hazare movement finally split, not without some help from quarters who did not wish for it to be around. Baba Ramdevs movement, apart from the episode wherein state forces descended with full might on unsuspecting protesters in the dark of the night, is an unprecedented event in the annals of history. Yet, there was applause in some quarters for the firm action taken. The citations can be large, the examples numerous, and they can be found in all parts of the country. The reason is simple: There are elites in all parts of the country, they are entrenched, they are powerful and there is nothing random about their behaviour. The battle is no longer for the minds but for the ability to get away with anything. If the Comptroller and AuditorGeneral raises questions, he is accused of crossing his constitutional mandate. If those without a voice take to the street, it is desecration of parliamentary democracy. If there is a hue and cry about poisoned mid-day meals, it is suggested that the resultant deaths were part of a political conspiracy. If somebody is caught in the act of cor-

JANUS-FACED PAKISTAN
Fourteen years after the 1999 War, when Pakistani troops breached the ceasefire in the Kargil sector for the first time last week, their unprovoked firing should have been enough to shatter the illusion of peace-building that New Delhi continues to harbour. The first violation happened in the intervening night of August 11 and 12, initially at Kaksar and then at Chenigund post, incidentally the same post from where Captain Saurabh Kalia was taken in April 1999. The ceasefire was then violated again on Thursday, August 15, when Pakistani troops fired with automatic weapons at Sando Post in the Drass sector making it amply clear that Pakistan is looking to provoke, rather than seek peace. Ceasefire violations in the Kargil sector have been followed by similar breaches all along the Line of Control. Viewed together, its evident that Pakistan wants to widen the conflict. In fact, since the August 6 firing at Chakan da Bagh post in Poonch sector that killed two Indian jawans and fuelled an outrage across the country, there have been as many as 18 ceasefire violations. And that is not all. The ceasefire violations are part of a package deal that includes, as usual, an increased number of infiltration bids. The Indian Army has reported that it has killed as many as 28 terrorists in the past two months. In effect, then the Pakistani Army is providing fire cover to jihadis as they sneak into India, while also inciting the Indian Army which has, of course, returned fire with full force. Apologists for Pakistan could get away with blaming irregulars or armed men in Pakistani Army uniforms for the attacks, but the sheer scale and intensity of the violation gives the game away. It is unimaginable that 18 attacks in just about 10 days could have been carried out without express orders from Rawalpindi and at least tacit consent from Islamabad. Of course, the so-called peaceniks will be quick to claim the Pakistani Army's shenanigans at the LoC do not have Islamabad's approval and are designed to weaken the position of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, supposedly India's new best friend. Even if that were the case, it only proves that Mr Sharif has no control over his Army (much like, as he has claimed, he didn't have during Kargil). Either way, the end result is the same for India. In spite of all this, those in New Delhi who still believe that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh should meet with his Pakistani counterpart on the sidelines of the annual UN jamboree in New York in September, must consider this: Even though it is Pakistani troops who violated the ceasefire, it is Pakistans Government that passed a resolution in the National Assembly which blamed the Indian Army for unprovoked aggression. And this is a step that has been taken by the civilian Government in Islamabad led by Mr Sharif himself. Sure, India too passed a counter-resolution but it was Pakistan that made the first move. And it did so despite knowing that New Delhi seemed from all indications then, committed to the Singh-Sharif meeting in New York. To that end, the Sharif Government's resolution, which has vitiated the atmosphere further, complements the actions of the Pakistani Army along the LoC. It also exposes the hollowness in the argument that Mr Sharif is sincere about friendly relations with India

What has led to this situation? Worsening current account deficit and insufficient flow of foreign direct investments, despite promises of the continuation of the reforms, are two main reasons for the crisis. Reportedly, overseas investors have withdrawn about three billion dollars recently from the capital markets. Add to this the rising import bill and the depressing global economic scenario and the bleak picture is complete.

ruption, it is a frame-up. The skill to spread confusion has become a fine art. Corruption has been so professionalised, that the corrupt may as well run degree and certificate courses. It is possible philosophically to argue that this too shall pass but then so will generations. In an era where ineptness raises no hackles and efficiency seems to be the choice of a miniscule minority, it is not surprising that the lack of capability and concern is an enduring reality. Electrocution from naked wires in public places or accidents by untrained drivers is merely the more dramatic expressions of the lack of concern for capability and competency. In an era where jobs and skills stand disconnected, and new wrongs are being institutionalised to right the old ones, optimism can only be a compulsion. One can only hope that these testing times, of which most of us are simultaneously victims and perpetrators, will come to pass as a generational tragedy.

Autonomy and the CBI

READER SPACE

Dear Editor, The constitutional state of the CBI continues to mirror our loss of faith in our legislators (editorial page, A charter for the CBI, Aug.21). They seem to craftily handle any tide that turns against them by getting together and eventually coming out with unanimous amendments. Joseph Kamalesh,GedilamOne of the arguments of Mr. Noorani in placing the onus on politicians seems flawed his example of Morarji Desai. Morarji Desai cannot be held responsible for the fault of Jamshid Nagarvalla. Nagarvalla was under no obligation to seek permission from the Home Minister if he was sure of his actions. In reality, the executives prefer to work as political stooges in order to gain favour from politicians, who in turn use them for their personal tasks. Instead of acts being passed, what we need is action. Acts and charters only exist on paper. Yours etc, Krishna Chandra Misra, New Delhi

wanting to professionalise journalism through licensing. Even academically qualified candidates turn out to be mediocre journalists. Can we ignore incompetence merely because the journalist has been licensed on the basis of a selection process? By the same argument, why should we discourage those who have the potential and aptitude to become committed and responsible journalists from entering the profession merely because they fail the test of standardisation? Yours etc, T.K.S. Thathachari, Bangalore

Mowed down at Dhamara Ghat

Dear Editor, Railway Minister Mallikarjun Kharges observation in the Rajya Sabha (Aug.20) that the driver failed to see the victims is untenable. While he could have done precious little to stop the train on sighting the people, the fact is that he failed to continuously sound the horn from an adequate distance, as provided for in the statute book. Station staff, taking into account the huge congregation, could have stopped the train at the first stop signal and then arranged to pass it so that the driver would have been in full control of the train and stopped it in the event of an eventuality. In the context of the Indian milieu, addressing safety issues, woeful infrastructure and staff shortages must take precedence over bullet trains and superfast corridors. Yours etc, N. Sadasivan Pillai, Kollam

Journalist qualifications

Dear Editor, When more and more people pursue higher education and secure degrees, the result is the phenomenon of academic inflation. The bar for entry into various professions is raised under the false presumption that the higher the academic qualification, the better the job-readiness of the candidate. This myth has now caught the fancy of those

There was a time when the country had a moral reference point - be it in Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, Vinoba Bhave or Jayaprakash Narayan. But that list has almost disappeared. Once in a while, one hears a name like Anna Hazare. His description by the serving Minister for Information and Broadcasting over a year ago, as the spokesperson of the ruling elite, would be in many memories. Statements like that are not made off the cuff or as an emotional outburst. They are carefully rehearsed and deliberately mouthed. The Anna Hazare movement finally split, not without some help from quarters who did not wish for it to be around. Baba Ramdev's movement, apart from the episode wherein state forces descended with full might on unsuspecting protesters in the dark of the night, is an unprecedented event in the annals of history. Yet, there was applause in some quarters for the 'firm action' taken.

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STUDENT AGE FRIDAY, AUGUST 23, 2013

NATIONAL

Rains lash Uttarakhand; CM visits Chamoli

Its fake, says Amitabh on video that shows him endorsing Modi
You can hear his familiar baritone on the radio enticing listeners to breathe in a bit of Gujarat. But now, the States most famous brand ambassador has been confronted with an endorsement he was never part of. A furious Amitabh Bachchan has objected to a fake online video, which started circulating on Wednesday suggesting he backed the Gujarat Chief Minister as prime minister. The 70-year-old tech-savvy star immediately went onto Twitter and Facebook to say, FAKE! FAKE! FAKE! Appalled by this act of illegality. Mr. Bachchan said he participated in the Lead India campaign of a newspaper in 2007, where he had spoken in praise of the country. Somebody has made a fake video of me, using my voice and text of what I spoke in the original and falsely and mischievously interspersed it with visuals which indicate a campaign for the promotion of the Hon Chief Minister of Gujrat, Shri Narendra Modi. The original Lead India video shows the actor talking about the search for a leader who will help lay the world at our feet and concludes by saying the leader is among us.The actor has threatened to take legal action. This is an illegal act, inviting strong action. One that I am appalled by and one that has no concurrence from me at all. This is a blatant misuse and infringement of the Copyright Act and needs to be condemned by all those that become part of this platform. Infuriated and angered!! Mr. Bachchan said on Facebook. The morphed video was uploaded from a YouTube account called Jitega Bharat, and has since been removed. Jitega Bharat has apologised to both to the actor and to Mr. Modi through its twitter account, claiming that the video was not its creation. Sincere unconditional apology for reposting a video without verifying. Distress to all is regretted, is the latest tweet. pologise profusely to both Mr Bachchan and Narendra Modi, it says.As tweets supporting the actor flew thick and fast, Mr. Modi himself stepped in, perhaps to counter an impression that the video was concocted by his media machine. Agree with @SrBachchan. The author of the fake video should take action immediately and apologize to Amitabh ji, Mr. Modi

DEHRADUN, AUGUST 22: Chief Minister Vijay Bahuguna on Thursday made a visit to Chamoli to review relief operations in the district, which was one of the worst hit areas in the mid-June calamity, while light to moderate rains lashed several areas of Uttarakhand. Though most places in the state received light to moderate rains, Haldwani in Naninital district was lashed by heavy showers receiving a maximum of 150 mm of rainfall in the last 24 hours followed by Tanakpur in Chamapwat which received 78 mm of rains, State Disaster Management and Mitigation Centre (DMMC) here said. Dharchula in Pithoragarh district received 59 mm of rains while Koshiyakuteli area in Nainital district

recorded 40 mm of rains, DMMC said. However, Dehradun was among places which received minimum rainfall recording 1.1 mm of showers, it said. The MeT department predicted similar weather conditions for the next 24 hours with light to moderate rains likely at most places barring a few where it may rain heavily. Meanwhile, with the weather bright and sunny in Dehradun, Chief Minister Vaijay Bahuguna on Thursday visited Chamoli to meet the disaster-hit people of the district and take stock of the relief operations under way. Mr. Bahuguna had to cancel his visit to Chamoli several times in the past due to inclement weather.

tweeted.The tweet trail has now reached a Rajkot music composer, who has apologised for uploading the video on YouTube though he has also denied creating it. Music composer Utpal Jivarajani told PTI, he received the video on Mr. Bachchan on

WhatsApp. I found it very interesting so I uploaded it. But when I realised that has enraged him and our Chief Minister Narendra Modi, I apologised to both of them deleted it from YouTube, said the composer who claims he has no political

affiliations. The busy actor among the first to embrace social media seems vindicated. He offered this tribute to his Facebook fans late on Wednesday night, Thank you all my Ef Sena!! Off to bedtravel tomorrow!!

Centre rejects Maharashtra govts proposal to ban Abhinav Bharat

NEW DELHI, AUGUST 22: The Centre has rejected Maharashtra governments proposal to ban right wing group Abhinav Bharat, which is accused of carrying out the bomb attack at Malegaon in 2008. The decision has been taken by the Home Ministry after it came to a conclusion that the group has not been involved in any terrorist or anti-national activity in recent years, official sources said. Before rejecting the Maharashtra governments proposal, the Home Ministry took views of central intelligence agencies and National Investigation Agency, which has been probing most of the terror cases since 2009. Abhinav Bharat, a closed group of right wing Hindu activists, was allegedly set up to counter jehadi terror attacks. It was set up in 2006 and mainly operates in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. Himani Savarkar, daughter-in-law of Vinayak Damodar Savarkars brother and niece of Nathuram Godse, is also reportedly associated with Abhinav Bharat. The Maharashtra governments proposal came after state anti-terrorism squad (ATS) recommended for its ban claiming that Abhinav Bharat members were allegedly involved in the 2008 Malegaon blast. The state government had also informed Bombay High Court in October 2012 about its intention to ban the group. Abhinav Bharat has been at the centre of a war of words between BJP and Sangh Parivar on the one hand and their detractors on the other. Opponents of BJP have cited the presence of alleged members of RSS in the ranks of the group and their alleged involvement in acts of terrorism to dub the Sangh Parivar as equivalent to jehadi outfits. BJP and Sangh Parivar have strongly refuted the charge.

With GJM exemption, schools in Darjeeling may reopen from Sept. 1

jeopardise the future of their wards. GJM sources also indicated that offices might also come under the exemption ambit, but no final decision was taken. Meanwhile, the Lepcha community, who are the original inhabitants of the Darjeeling hills, are preparing for bestowing their highest honour to state Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee who might visit the hills on September two. Sources in the Darjeeling Lepcha Development Council on Thursday indicated that Ms. Mamata would receive the honour at Siliguris Bagha Jatin Park. In last Mondays devastating storm, the house where Hindi film Barfi, featuring Ranbir Kapoor in the lead, was shot extensively was damaged. The Additional District Magistrate of Darjeeling, Gopal Lama, said that the house known as Bhutia Bustee is near the picturesque Lebong village. Mr. Lama said 12 wards in the Darjeeling town suffered large-scale damage in the storm, estimated at Rs 2 crore.

Heavy security in Ayodhya

MUMBAI, AUGUST 22: A massive security network is in place in and around Ayodhya to deter the Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) from undertaking chaurasi kos yatra on August 25. Security personnel have fanned out to the neighbouring districts and a tight vigil is being kept on trains coming to Ayodhya and Faizabad. Bus stations are also under the scanner of security agencies. The police face an uphill task to identify VHP and Bajrang Dal activists from common passengers, knowing that in October-November 1990 hundreds of kar sevaks infiltrated into Ayodhya and adjoining villages by using trains and buses as the common mode of travel despite tight security. An official spokesman said the Uttar Pradesh government is in touch with the Railways and roadways authorities. While the borders of Ayodhya and Faizabad district are likely to be sealed on Saturday, 10 companies of the Rapid Action Force (RAF) and 14 companies of the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC) have been deployed in Faizabad, Barabanki, Bahraich, Ambedkar Nagar, Basti and Gonda districts. The VHPs proposed yatra for mobilising support for the construction of a Ram temple will pass through these six districts from August 25 to September 13.IG (Law and Order ) Raj Kumar Vishwakarma told reporters on Thursday that in addition to the RAF and PAC deployment, two SPs, 16 additional SPs, 32 DSPs, 80 inspectors, 240 sub-inspectors and 600 constables have been drafted for security in Ayodhya and neighbouring areas. People would not be allowed to enter Ayodhya on August 25. Reports said many sants associated with the VHP have gone underground, fearing arrest. Uttar Pradesh Congress Committee president Nirmal Khatri has hit out against the VHP. Mr. Khatri, MP from Faizabad, said the chaurasi kos parikrama is traditionally held in the month of Baisakh, but by deciding to take out a yatra on August 25, it is clear that it was associated with construction of a Ram temple.

DARJEELING, AUGUST 22: All schools and colleges in the Darjeeling hills would be exempted from the purview of the agitation for a separate Gorkhaland state and reopen from September one, a top Gorkha Janmukti Morcha leader on Thursday said.

The decision to keep the educational institutions, which were closed since July 29, out of the ambit of the agitation would be formally announced in the next few days, GJM publicity head Harka Bahadur Chhetri said. As classes were not held regularly in the 45 or so schools

in the three hill sub-divisions of Darjeeling, Kalimpong and Kurseong, most of the outstation students began to vacate the hostels from August 1.Mr. Chhetri, GJMs Kalimpong MLA, said the exemption decision was taken after considering the pleas by the guardians not to

M.P. teenager facing trial for trespassing into Pakistan

ISLAMABAD, AUGUST 22: Young Jitendra Arjunwar is cooling his heels in the youthful offenders section in the Hyderabad central jail after he crossed into Pakistan on August 12 and was picked up by the Pakistan Rangers. A senior police official from Umarkot district in Sindh province told The Hindu over phone on Thursday that Arjunwar, 15 or 16 years old, was from Bargad in Madhya Pradeshs Seoni district. His fathers name is Asurya Prasad Ghadiwal. The Rangers caught him at the Cheetah check post, which is 30km inside Pakistan, on August 12 and handed him over to the Khokrapar police station the next day. Charged under the Foreigners Act, Arjunwar was remanded to judicial custody on August 15 and is facing trial for trespassing into Pakistan. He would remain in jail till he is chargesheeted and trial begins, the police said. They do not know why the boy crossed the border. At Khokhrapar police station, a policeman said the boy spoke Hindi and was not much educated. He also didnt know he had crossed the border, which is fenced with barbed wire. The police official did not confirm the news reports that said he dug his way under the fence and entered Pakistan. According to one account the boy had a fight at home and ran away. The police are puzzled that he ran away so far from his home and managed to get through such a difficult fence. Meanwhile, Pakistan will release 337 fishermen and 25 crew members of two vessels MSV AL-Buran and MSV AL-Faruqi this week. Thecrew members were arrested in April 2013 from Chur Bandar. They pleaded guilty of entering Pakistani waters and were sentenced to 10 days rigorous imprisonment and fined Pakistani Rs. 1000. They have completed their sentence, official sources said. The ships transport sheep and goats from Gujarat to Dubai and other countries. The nationality of one of the fishermen, however, is not confirmed and so he will not be released, it is learnt.

Dabholkars murder: blurred Asaram case being probed by CCTV footage fails to offer lead Jodhpur Commissioner: Gehlot
PU NE/MUM BA I, AUGUST 22: Two days after rationalist Narendra Dabholkar was shot dead during a morning walk, police are yet to achieve a breakthrough with hopes of getting some leads from a CCTV footage being dashed due to blurred images. According to an eyewitness, two youths aged between 25 and 30, had fled the crime scene riding a bike after firing shots at the 69-year-old anti-superstition activist. Police is also verifying the number plate details as given by the eyewitness to trace the vehicle. The CCTV footage, recovered by cops immediately after murder of Dabholkar on Tuesday, has not yielded any concrete clues on the identity of the unknown assailants who gunned down the activist on a city bridge during morning walk as it was blurred and unclear, police said. We are still examining the CCTV footage which has only shown images of two motorbike riders. But it is blurred and unclear to establish identity, an official incharge of the investigation said. The investigations are on and so far no individual or organisation has been identified for involvement in the murder, he added. Eight squads have been formed by Pune police crime branch to track down the killers who continue to be at large after more than 48

JAIPUR, AUGUST 22: Rajasthan chief minister Ashok Gehlot on Thursday said the allegations of sexual assault on self-styled godman Asaram Bapu by a sixteen year old girl were being probed and the truth in the matter would soon be established. Mr. Gehlot also urged godmen to conduct themselves properly to avoid hurting public sentiments. Most sadhus conduct themselves in a proper way and their names never come up in such controversies. But those whose names keep coming up should conduct themselves in a way that leave no scope for false allegations, said Mr. Gehlot. The society revers sadhus and so they should take care to not hurt that sentiment and

behave in a way thats beyond suspicion, he said. The Chief Minister said he had asked the Jodhpur police commissioner to probe the matter in detail and then act accordingly. Asaram Bapu, last in news over his inappropriate comments over the Delhi gangrape case, invited fresh trouble when a sexual assault case was registered against him at New Delhi's Kamla Market police station on Tuesday. The case was filed by a sixteen year old girl who accused Asaram Bapu (74) of sexually assaulting her at a farmhouse in Jodhpur on 15th August. The victim, belonging to Uttar Pradesh, is reportedly an inmate of Asaram Bapu's ashram in Chhindwara,

Madhya Pradesh. A prominent local daily in Jaipur published the victim's testimony on Thursday, where she claimed to be an inmate of Bapu's Chhindwara ashram. When she fell ill, aides of Asaram Bapu called her to Jodhpur on the pretext of treating her and then sexually assaulted her at an ashram on 15th August, she alleged. Bapu's spokesperson Sunil Wankhede has rubbished the allegations, claiming the godman was not even present in Jodhpur on 15th August. Jodhpur police commissioner Biju George Joseph said a case had been registered against Asaram Bapu and the investigation had been assigned to a female officer of ACP rank.

hours. In Mumbai, Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan announced an award of Rs 10 lakh to anyone giving information about the activists murder. He blamed opponents of the anti-superstition bill for the killing and said organisations behind such acts should be isolated and their activities stopped. The state government had on Wednesday cleared a proposal to promulgate an ordinance to check black magic and inhuman religious rituals. The forces which did not want this Bill to be presented and passed into a law were the people responsible for silencing his voice, Mr. Chavan said. Those who targeted Dabholkar were not political organisations. This is ideological rift. People who carried out such assassinations, they are not political parties, he said.

Based on the eyewitness account, police has circulated the sketch of one of the two suspects allegedly involved in the killing. The investigators are also exploring the possibility of Dabholkar being tailed by the assailants right from Mumbai from where he landed in the city on Tuesday morning, sources said. As part of man hunt, police teams have also been sent to neighbouring district of Satara from where the activist hailed and also to adjacent Sangli. A Mumbai police team has arrived in the city to assist in the probe. Dabholkars broad daylight murder triggered public outrage with political parties and social organisations staging demonstrations demanding that the assailants be nabbed. The activist was running an anti-superstition movement in Maharashtra and had even drafted a Bill for the purpose in the late 1990s.

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STUDENT AGE FRIDAY, AUGUST 23, 2013

INTERNATIONAL & ECONOMY

7
India can quiz witnesses in marines case: Italian minister
ROME: Italy's Defence Minister Mario Maurohas said that Italy would only be happy if prosecutors question the four other riflemen who were guarding an oil tanker with the two Italian marines facing trial in India for murder. "Italy has not refused to allow the four riflemen to make witness statements," Mauro, said. "But this can be done here in Italy or via video conference," he said, adding that Indian law did not require the four witnesses to travel to India to give evidence in the case. Italian marines Salvatore Girone and Massimiliano Latorre are due to stand trial over the killings of two unarmed fishermen in the southern state of Kerala in February 2012. The marines allege they mistook the fishermen for pirates. "It is to be hoped that Italy and India's behaviour is transparent over this matter and that a rapid and equitable solution is found," Mauro said. "We continue to raise the issue of jurisdiction," he noted. Italy claimed the incident took place in international waters, meaning India should not have jurisdiction over the case. New Delhi in March refused to allow Italy's ambassador to India to leave the country amid an escalating diplomatic row that erupted between the two countries when Rome broke a promise to return Girone and Latorre to India for trial after India granted them a month's home leave. The row was defused when Italy sent back the two marines - who had been allowed home to vote in national elections - after receiving assurances they would not face the death penalty. No trial date has so far been set for the pair. Indian media reported earlier this week that Italy's refusal to send the four witnesses to India for interviews could delay the conclusion of the probe.

Robert Mugabe sworn in for five more years as Zimbabwe's president

HARARE: Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, Africa's oldest leader at 89, was sworn in today for a new five-year term in the face of criticism from opponents and the West that his re-election in a July vote was not credible. Mugabe, who has ruled since independence from Britain in 1980, has told critics of his re-election to "go hang" and has vowed to press ahead with nationalist policies forcing foreign firms to turn over majority stakes to black Zimbabweans. He took his new oath of office before bewigged Chief Justice Godfrey Chidyausiku at a ceremony held in a 60,000-seat football stadium in Harare witnessed by thousands of cheering supporters, diplomats and delegations from the region. His longtime rival and opponent in the last three elections, Morgan Tsvangirai, boycotted the ceremony. He has denounced the July 31 election as a "huge fraud" and a "coup by ballot", alleging massive rigging by Mugabe's ZANU-PF party. Mugabe and his ruling party have rejected these allegations. This will be Mugabe's fifth term as president of the southern African state. He had also served two terms as prime minister after 1980 independence ended white minority rule in the country previously known as Rhodesia. Mugabe and senior officials from his ruling ZANU-PF party are the target of sanctions imposed by governCatherine Ashton said on Thursday. The EU's verdict on the fairness of the elections will be crucial to a decision on whether it continues to ease sanctions. Soon after the July 31 vote, which went ahead peacefully in contrast to 2008 election violence, domestic monitors from the Zimbabwe Election Support Network said registration flaws may have disenfranchised up to a million people out of 6.4 million registered voters. But observer missions from the regional 15-nation Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union broadly endorsed the vote as free and peaceful and called on all parties to accept its results.

ments in the West, which has accused them of staying in power through massive human rights violations and vote rigging. Britain said on Thursday Mugabe's re-election could not be deemed credible without an independent investigation into allegations of voting irregularities.

US officials this week said the election was flawed and Washington had no plans to loosen sanctions until there were signs of change in the country. The European Union will review relations with Zimbabwe given its "serious concerns" about the election, EU foreign policy chief

NSA unlawfully gathered domestic emails

WASHINGTON: The National Security Agency (NSA) illegally intercepted thousands of e-mails from Americans with no connection to terrorism and misled the court about the scope of what it was doing, according to latest declassified documents. Officials disclosed the history of that unlawful surveillance, releasing three partially redacted opinions of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court that detailed the judges' concerns about how the NSA had been siphoning data from the Internet in an effort to collect foreign intelligence. The documents were released in response to a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit filed by the Electronic Frontier Foundation, an advocacy group based in San Francisco. According to a redacted 85-page opinion by the chief judge of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court, the National Security Agency (NSA) may have been collecting as many as 56,000 "wholly domestic" communications each year. "For the first time, the government has now advised the court that the volume and nature of the information it has been collecting is fundamentally different from what the court had been led to believe," John D. Bates, the then surveillance court's chief judge wrote in his October 3, 2011 opinion. U.S. intelligence officials sought to portray the matter as a technical glitch that the intelligence agencies caught and fixed. But in the court opinion, judges said the NSA repeatedly had misled them about the scope of what it was doing. "The court is troubled that the government's revelations regarding NSA's acquisition of Internet transactions mark the third instance in less than three years in which the government has disclosed a substantial misrepresentation regarding the scope of a major collection programme," Mr. Bates wrote. The latest revelations come amid growing criticism from members of Congress and privacy groups about the NSA surveillance programs and charges that the agency has far overstepped its bounds in collecting information on U.S. citizens. In a late night statement, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) strongly refuted media reports that the U.S. has unfettered access to some 75 per cent of the country's online communication. "The reports leave readers with the impression that NSA is sifting through as much as 75 per cent of the United States' online communications, which is simply not true. In its foreign intelligence mission, and using all its authorities, NSA "touches" about 1.6 per cent, and analysts only look at 0.00004 per cent, of the world's Internet traffic," ODNI said.

Storm lashes China after Pakistan to release 365 killing 17 in Philippines Indian prisoners
Southern China was hit by fresh flooding on Thursday as the second storm in a week lashed the region after killing 17 people in the Philippines. Typhoon Trami skirted Taiwan before landing in China's Fujian province early Thursday morning and weakening into a tropical storm. It was heading northwest, bringing heavy rain to a region still feeling the effects of Typhoon Utor, which ground across Guangxi, Guangdong and Hunan provinces over the weekend. Minor damage from Trami was reported in coastal areas, but no deaths or injuries were reported as a result of the storm by Thursday afternoon. Flooding around China over the past week has left about 250 people dead or missing, including 21 who were killed on Tuesday when a construction site in remote Qinghai province was struck by a flash flood. Conditions have been especially bad in the northeast, where the Heilong River, known as the Amur in Russian, burst its banks on Thursday, forcing thousands of people to evacuate. Trami wreaked havoc in the Philippine capital of Manila and in outlying regions, but caused only minor damage in Taiwan. ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has decided to release 365 Indian prisoners as a goodwill gesture, the interior ministry announced Thursday. The prisoners include 340 fishermen and 25 crew members of their boats, reported. All the Indian prisoners have completed their jail terms and will be sent back to India through the Wagah border crossing Saturday. Eight juveniles are also among the prisoners to be freed from the Youthful Offenders Industrial School in Karachi, officials said. The announcement to release the Indian prisoners came at a time when tension has increased between the two nuclearpowered neighbours over cross-border shelling. Pakistan and India routinely arrest fishermen as there are no maritime boundaries between the two nations. Both the countries have held series of talks but have not yet reached any agreement. Pakistani authorities have already informed Indian officials about the decision.

China to set up first Consulate in Nepal

KATHMANDU: Due to the growing trade between the two neighbours, China will set up its first Consulate in Nepal even as the Himalayan nation is preparing to open a third Consulate in China. Nepal has been preparing to set up its Consulate-General office in Guangzhou while China has proposed to establish the office in Pokhara, a tourist hub in western Nepal, reported. So far, Nepal has three diplomatic missions in China - the Embassy of Nepal in Beijing and Consulates in Lhasa and Hong Kong. Nepal's trade with China has significantly increased through Guangzhou, making the city a trade hub for Nepal in recent times. A decision will be taken at a bilateral meeting in Beijing on Sunday. "The establishment of the office of consulate general in both countries will be the major agenda of discussion," Nepal's foreign secretary Arjun Thapa said.

ECONOMY

No need for unwarranted pessimism: Chidambaram Anil Ambani appears as a witness in 2G case
MUMBAI: The Finance Minister today held a briefing for the media in which he said that quarter one GDP is expected to be sluggish. Chidambaram today said that the rupee has crossed appropriate level. He said that although he wasn't in a position to comment on Federal Open Market Committee minutes, however, he said that we should brace for the Fed's comments on easing stimulus. However, it is expected growth to pick up in second quarter or fourth quarter. He said, there is was no reason for unwarranted pessimism in markets. The FM said there is widespread concern over volatility in rupee. However, there is volatility in all Emerging and global. However, he said, "we have taken many measures to revive investment and growth and they were committed to reduce fiscal deficit, and Current Account Deficit will be met". He said, increasing coal production was a part of their structural plan. However, increasing duty on luxury items was not a priority. Chidambaram added that, reducing bond yields would be considered in the RBI policy. He further said that the government will infuse Rs 14,000 crore in PSUs in 2014. NEW DELHI: Reliance ADAG Chairman Anil Ambani today appeared as a prosecution witness before a special CBI court in Delhi for the 2G spectrum case but said he does not recall the board meetings of the company AAA Consultancy Services as the minutes were not prepared by him. The CBI had alleged AAA Consultancy Services was one of the associate companies of Reliance ADAG, whose group firm Reliance Telecom used Swan Telecom, an ineligible company, as the front to get the 2G licences. The board meetings for setting up of the firm were held from Jan 2005. "I attend a large number of meetings and I do not recall. I am going by the records only," Ambani told Special CBI Judge O P Saini. Saini then asked Ambani, "But you do not maintain false records. Your record must be correct". "The records should be correct," Ambani said in response to the judge's query."Sir I want to take a call. One I do not recall now. Second, minutes are not prepared by me. It is prepared by the secretarial staff. I do not recall and I do not prepare the minutes," Ambani said. Ambani's examination-in-chief by the prosecution will continue. Tina Ambani, the wife of Ambani, is also expected to appear Friday in the court as a witness. Yesterday, the Supreme Court refused to pass any order on a petition seeking a stay on trial court summons to him. Anil was earlier asked to come on July 26, but the court allowed him exemption after he pleaded that he had "pre-scheduled" business engagements. The court had then issued fresh summons for Thursday. The special court in its July 19 order had said that CBI's plea to summon Anil Ambani, Tina and 11 others as prosecution witnesses was essential for arriving at a just decision in the case. CBI is investigating the 2G case. CBI had told the court that Ambani was part of the decision to invest Rs 992 crore in Swan Telecom and that he should made a witness to further the cause of justice. The agency also said that Tina Ambani had presided over the meetings of the holding companies of Swan Telecom.

Market currencies. FDI inflows in the first quarter were at $9.4 billion. He said, the Indian economy is currently challenged due to local

CPI asks govt to revisit decision to hike gas prices

NEW DELHI: CPI leader Gurudas Dasgupta today asked the government to revisit the recent decision to hike gas prices and "clear the air of suspicion" that the move was undertaken to benefit a corporate house "undermining national interests." "If the cost per unit (of natural gas) is only $2.74, then how the Rangarajan Committee has come to the conclusion that it should be $8.4 per unit to be given to the contractor. Evidently, it is lack of due diligence. "The next question that arises is how the Cabinet had approved the price almost four times the cost so hurriedly," Dasgupta said in a letter to PM PManmohan Singh. He urged Singh to revisit the question of natural gas pricing forReliance Industries Limited (RIL) and "clear the air of suspicion that the government had only acted to benefit the corporate giant undermining national interest." Maintaining that "no governmental agency" had clarified the issue of per unit cost of production in RIL's KG-6 Basin, Dasgupta said only earlier this month, the Petroleum Ministry while replying to a question of the Standing Committee "has officially admitted that ..... The cost of production, including the levies, works out to $2.74 MMBTU." The Ministry arrived at the figure after computing the data from the financial statement of the Company for 2011-12 on the projected level of production, the CPI leader said.

India to export power to Bangladesh from October

KOLKATA: Amid concerns over widening current account deficit, India soon will have an addition to its export basket. Come Oct, India will become an exporter of power to Bangladesh, courtesy, NTPC and West Bengal State Electricity Distribution Company Limited (WBSEDCL), the power discom of the state. With West Bengal turning powersurplus, partially due to lack of industrial demand, it will be selling 250 MW of power to neighbouring Bangladesh via Power Trade Corporation (PTC). This will be part of total 500 Mw power export to Bangladesh as stateowned power major NTPC has already committed 250 Mw power supply to Bangladesh. "We have entered into an agreement with PTC, through which we will be selling 250 MW power to Bangladesh for three years. This will hopefully start in October," Malay De, principal secretary of the state power department, said. Banking on this surplus-power with West Bengal, for the first time that India will be exporting power on such a scale, earlier the country has sold power to Nepal and Bhutan, which has been around 20 to 30 Mw. According to industry experts, the total export will translate into supply of 4000 million units of power to the neighbouring country. "In Bangladeh the price of power per unit is about 7 Taka (BDT). Taking this as a standard and given the exchange rate, the power export could fetch over $ 350 million for India annually," an official close to the development said. The export will on the basis of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between the two countries in 2010, during Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina's New Delhi visit. According to that India will be exporting 500 Mw of power to its neighbour. Apart from West Bengal's contribution, another 250 Mw will be supplied by NTPC directly. NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam (NVVN), a subsidiary of NTPC and the nodal agency for supply of power to Bangladesh had signed an agreement with Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) for supply of power for 25 years. There was also a proposal to export 500 Mw of power to Pakistan, however, according to recent reports in Pakisat media, India has backtracked from the offer in wake of recent tension at the Line of Control . The supply of power to Bangladesh will be through electrical grid interconnection between the two countries as works to set up substations with HVDC (high voltage direct current) link had started soon after IndoBangladesh MoU in 2010. The substations on both sides of the border at Murshidabad's Nabagram in India and at Bheramara in Bangladesh are expected to be ready for operation by September-end. The power discom of the West Bengal, WBSEDCL, has about a 10% surplus, which has been on the rise. In the last one year about 30,000 million units entered its system and it sold about 3,000 million units. It was so far, either banking the surplus power or selling it to the domestic market through power exchanges. Although the state showcases this as an achievement, officials suggest, industrial demand, which accounts for 40% of total power consumption in Bengal, has not gone up in the last one year as it was expected, contributing to surplus power.

13 central schemes under DBT for direct cash transfer: Minister

NEW DELHI: As many as 13 centrally sponsored schemes have been identified under direct benefit transfer (DBT), subject to cash transfer directly into the account of beneficiaries, Parliament was informed today. "13 Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSS) have been identified under DBT, which are subjected to cash transfers through Aadhaar-enabled bank accounts in 121 districts," Minister of State for Planning Rajeev Shukla said in a written reply to Rajya Sabha today. He said the benefits have begun to be credited into the account of the beneficiary under the DBT scheme, which started in a phased manner. In the first phase, 43 districts were selected in January, 2013 and another 78 districts have been added in July, he said. Asked whether there is any monitoring system for these transfers, he said Aadhaar Payment Bridge (APB) has been created by National Payment Corporation of India for monitoring the scheme-wise and district-wise payments, which would be transferred into the Aadhaar enabled bank accounts of beneficiaries. Further, he said the Central Plan Scheme Monitoring System, controlled by CGA, monitors payment advice which includes

scheme-wise, state/district-wise APB and non-APB transactions. In reply to a separate question on Aadhaar number, Shukla said a total of 39.36 Aadhaar numbers have been generated as on July 31, 2013 against a total population of 121 crore (as of 2011 census). Shukla said generation of Aadhaar number is an ongoing process and currently there is no target date for completion of these activities. On an average, 10 lakh persons are enrolled every day for Aadhaar number through 25,000 enrollment stations in 4,500 locations, the minister added.

STUDENT AGE FRIDAY, AUGUST 23, 2013

MISC
Ashes 2013: Is it a day late and a dollar short for Shane Watson?
NEW DELHI: Shane Watson scored a big hundred on the first day of the fifth and final Ashes Test at Oval. Its undoubtedly a big relief for the Australian team, as they dominated the opening day. Though the Australian team is at the driving seat, courtesy to Watsons 176 runs knock, and will try to cross the mark of 500 runs on the second day, but isnt it too late for the Aussies, who have already lost the series and urn? Watson flopped badly till the fourth Ashes Test and didnt manage to impress with the bat. In fact its his first century in almost three years his last Test hundred was against India, when he scored 126 in

8
Goalball: Englands secret to Ashes success!
LONDON: England`s cricketers have revealed that they had used Goalball, which is a sport devised for the visually impaired, during practice sessions as one of the secret weapons in their successful battle against Australia in the Ashes. According to the Mirror, English cricketers have used Goalball equipment like black-out goggles, which extinguish every scrap of light, and have laid themselves down in front a ball hurled at 60 mph while wearing those goggles, during training and warm-ups to promote trust and togetherness. According to Broad, when a player loses one of his senses, especially his vision, then he relies much on his teammates, he said.

Gaganjeet Bhullar to defend Venetian Macau Open title

MACAU: Indian golfer Gaganjeet Bhullar today said he will return in October here to defend his Venetian Macau Open title, which he won in emphatic style last year. "I have great memories of my win last year in Macau. I played consistently well throughout the four days and managed to hold off some really big names, which gave me a lot of confidence. I have every reason to believe I can repeat what I accomplished last year. I am looking forward to the challenge," Bhullar said. Leading from start-to-finish, the young star triumphed on 16-under-par 268 total to win by two strokes ahead of Thaworn Wiratchant of Thailand was crowned champion. Bhullar has four Asian Tour victories and 10 professional wins on the domestic Indian circuit to his name and will be eager to defend his Venetian Macau Open title, which takes place from October 17-20, to add to his impressive CV. Bhullar will be in good company this year as multiple major winner Ernie Els of South Africa, who recently accepted an invitation to become an honorary members and international ambassador with the Asian Tour, confirmed his participation in the tournament a few weeks ago.

American Jonathan Moore and Thai Thitiphun Chuayprakong. The impressive Macau Golf

& Country Club is a happy hunting ground for Bhullar, who also recorded a runnerup finish in 2009 when

Mohali in October 2010. But Watson realised it as he stated after scoring his biggest hundred in Test cricket. It is only a consolation. The most important time was the first three Test matches and I wasn`t able to do that. I`ve had a lot of soul searching to do because I knew how important it was to set up the series. It was important for

me to score runs as a senior player and I wasn`t able to do it. I have been asking myself a lot of different questions over the past five Tests with my cricket, stated Watson. Whatever it might be but the senior and arguably the second most technically sound batsman in the current Australian squad must have found some solace in this ton.

Hope Faisalabad is allowed New Zealand appeal for more Tests Zimbabwe move on from crisis to cricket in CLT20: Misbah-ul Haq
KARACHI: The political tension between the two nations notwithstanding, Pakistan captain Misbah-ul Haq is hopeful that Faisalabad Wolves would be allowed to compete in the upcoming Champions League Twenty20 in India next month. The participation of the team, which is led by Misbah, has come under a shadow after the tension at the Line of Control rose between the two countries. The Faisalabad team is due to play in the qualifying round of the event from September 17. "I hope we are able to play in the league because it is a great opportunity for our new players who don`t have international exposure to play against the top players," he said. Misbah will leave this weekend to lead Pakistan in the ODI and Test series against Zimbabwe. Misbah reiterated that budding players in Pakistan are suffering due to lack of international cricket at home. WELLINGTON: New Zealand batsman Martin Guptill joined calls for more international matches for the Black Caps as they struggle to lift their profile. Guptill, who has been in impressive form in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), on Wednesday said New Zealand would struggle to improve on its eighthplaced Test ranking without a steady diet of matches against quality opponents. Legendary all-rounder Richard Hadlee recently said New Zealand needed more Tests but the perception in other countries was that the team was not box-office material. "It appears our value to other countries is not significant enough to keep us long enough in their country to make decent money. I think there should be some commitment to honour future tour programmes," Hadlee said. His comments came as officials continue to thrash out India`s itinerary for their New Zealand tour next February. India, ranked number two in the world, want to reduce the H A R A R E : Zimbabwe go into Fridays first Twenty20 international against Pakistan at Harare Sports Club with captain Brendan Taylor confident that the players have put their most recent scuffle with the board behind them. The month-long tour will see the two sides face off in two Twenty20 matches, three one-day internationals and two Tests, but Zimbabwe`s preparations were thrown into disarray last week when the players refused to train after negotiations over unpaid salaries and future contracts broke down. Although the players came to an agreement with Zimbabwe Cricket last Friday and returned to training, fast bowler Kyle Jarvis announced on Sunday that he was quitting international cricket in favour of a county contract. Nevertheless Taylor expects his side to move on mentally as they look to present a challenge to Pakistan.

"Other countries have established their own T20 professional leagues and their players are getting a chance to gain experience against the top players and they are sharp," he said. Misbah said Indian cricket has benefited a lot from the Indian Premier League -- the biggest T20 franchise-based league in the cricket world. "The IPL has allowed India to not only find new players but also groom them and put them in the national team." The Pakistan captain urged the Pakistan board to also launch its own professional

franchise T20 league. "Even if we can`t have this league at home because of the ensuing problems we should have it in Dubai. We need to have our own league to give our players more competition and exposure and good earnings at a time when there is no international cricket in Pakistan," he added. The Pakistan Cricket Board had announced to hold a Super T20 League in March this year with the participation of foreign players but the event was not launched due to time constraints.

scheduled three-Test programme to two. Guptill, who will miss the rest of the Caribbean tournament with a broken bone in his right hand, said it was time other countries took note of the quality of New Zealand cricketers. Guptill scored 198 runs at an average of 33 for the Warriors, who topped the group stage of the CPL, while team-mate James Franklin tops the averages with 170 runs at 42.50 and Ross Taylor has scored 141 runs for Trinidad and Tobago Red Steel. "It puts us out there and hopefully people will take notice," Guptill said in a

statement. "From what I read, Sir Richard`s comments were more to do with Test cricket than anything else and we are struggling a little in the Test game at the moment. "The only way we can get better is by playing more Tests and if that can come in the next few years and we can keep developing as a team then who knows where we can go from there." Guptill had been filling a dual role in the CPL -- opening the batting for the Warriors while gathering information on West Indies players ahead of their tour of New Zealand starting in November.

"I think we`ve all been around long enough to put that aside now," Taylor said in a telephone conversation. "ZC have met us in the middle and there`s nothing more to harp on about it. "We`ve discussed this as players and it`s time to move forward and try and represent our country as well as we can." Taylor admitted that Jarvis` decision had come as a surprise to his teammates and hoped that the 24-yearold will return to play for Zimbabwe in the future. "I just felt he was a little bit premature to leave Zimbabwe cricket, but he`s old enough to make his own decisions and see what`s right for him," Taylor said.

John McEnroe cannot see another US Open: Tim Henman backs Andy grand slam win for Roger Federer Murray to bounce back to top form
LONDON: John McEnroe finds it hard to envisage Roger Federer adding to his record 17 grand slam titles and believes the Swiss maestro is showing signs of slowing down. The 32-year-old Federer heads into next week`s US Open seeded seventh, his first time outside the top three in any slam in the past decade, and his recent form offers no suggestion of a quick improvement at Flushing Meadows in New York. McEnroe, a four-time US Open champion and threetimes Wimbledon winner, is not ruling Federer out of contention for the latter stages of the tournament but he feels it may now be too much to expect the Swiss to go all the way. "To me, it`s obviously going to be a lot more difficult at this stage," McEnroe, now a television commentator with ESPN, said on a conference call. "I don`t see at this stage him being able to go through all seven (rounds) and have to beat at least two of these (top) three LONDON: Former British tennis player Tim Henman has backed Andy Murray, saying that the British No.1 will have no problem in raising himself for a defence of his US Open crown while still in the afterglow of his Wimbledon triumph. According to Metro.co.uk, Murray lost for the first time since May when beaten in the second round of the Rogers Cup in Montreal by Ernests Gulbis and was eliminated in the quarter-finals in Cincinnati last week. However, Henman insisted that the Scot would be back to his best and ready for another assault on Flushing Meadows and even expected him to be in contention for a third Grand Slam there, saying that he does not read too much into Murray`s losses at Montreal and Cincinnati. According to Henman, although Murray might have a bit `undercooked` in

Sharapova withdraws from US Open citing shoulder injury

LONDON: Third-seeded Russian Maria Sharapova has pulled out of next week`s US Open due to a shoulder injury, tournament organisers said on Wednesday. "Maria has informed us that she will be unable to compete at the US Open this year due to a right shoulder bursitis and has withdrawn from the tournament," tournament director David Brewer said in a statement. "We wish her a speedy recovery and look forward to her return to New York next year." The four-times grand slam winner, who triumphed at Flushing Meadows in 2006, fired coach Jimmy Connors last week after just one match together. Sharapova lost to American teenager Sloane Stephens in the second round of the Western and Southern Open in Cincinnati last week. Defending champion Serena Williams is the top seed for the U.S. Open at Flushing

guys. "Maybe he would use that type of thing as incentive. When you`ve won 17, you clearly think you can win another one. To me, there comes a point, even as great as Roger has been for so many years, that it catches up to you a little bit," McEnroe added. Beaten by the 116th-ranked Sergiy Stakhovsky in the second

round at Wimbledon, Federer also lost to Federico Delbonis in the Hamburg semi-finals and 55th-ranked Daniel Brands on home soil in Gstaad. He fared a little better in Cincinnati last week, reaching the quarter-finals where he was beaten by eventual winner, and U.S. Open favourite, Rafa Nadal.

Canada, he will however, be even more confident in the US Open this time, although he expected Murray to face tough competition from Spaniard Rafael Nadal . The report mentioned that although Nadal suffered a shock first-round exit at Wimbledon, sparking fears of a nagging knee problem, he bounced back to bag the Rogers Cup last week- his 48th win in 51 matches and tenth final in 11 tournaments in 2013. Stating that hard court should suit Nadal better, Henman, who is the ambassador for the UK`s largest junior grass tournament- the HSBC Road to Wimbledon, also said.

Meadows in New York, ahead of Belarussia`s Victoria Azarenka and Poland`s Agnieszka Radwanska, who now moves up to third.

China`s Li Na faces scrutiny over fiery temper

BEIJING: China`s fiery tennis superstar Li Na heads into next week`s US Open eyeing a second Grand Slam crown but with questions over her temperament mounting in Chinese media after two furious outbursts. Winning the 2011 French Open title sealed Li`s place as the country`s tennis darling as 116 million people at home tuned in to watch her become Asia`s first Grand Slam singles champion. But the world number six, now a veteran at 31, has where sports stars typically keep their emotions strictly in check after years in the rigid state sports training system. After her second-round exit at the French Open and her quarter-final defeat at Wimbledon, Li turned on Wang Zijiang of official news agency Xinhua when he asked if she had a message for fans back home. "I lost a game and that`s it. Do I need to get on my knees and kowtow to them? Apologise to them?" she snapped in Paris.

developed a reputation as a prickly character in a nation

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