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

STUdenT aGe
FRIDAY, JANUARY 4, 2013

JKENG/2012/41612 Vol. 2 No: 4

Sakina distributes aids to specially abled persons at CRC Sgr

Winter Chill Continues in North India, Over 100 Die of Cold in UP

South Korean court orders chemical castration of child rapist

IN BRIEF
K'taka govt launches helpline for women in distress
BANGALORE: Karnataka Government has introduced a helpline for women in distress. Deputy Chief Minister in-charge for Home,Ashoka informed media persons in Bangalore today that Helpline 1091 will exclusively receive complaints of rape, sexual harassment, eve-teasing and kidnapping round the clock. contd on page 2

Prez inaugurates 100th Indian Science Congress at Kolkata

PM calls for scientific approach to settle 'complex issues'
Salt Lake Stadium. The theme for the Centenary Session is 'Science for shaping the future of India'. Our Kolkata Correspondent reports that the first session of the Indian Science Congress was held at the historic Asiatic Society in Kolkata way back in 1914. At the 100th Indian Science Congress in Kolkata, Dr Singh welcomed a debate on genetically modified foods, nuclear energy and space exploration and said faith and fear should give way to proper debate and analysis. Speaking at the Indian Science Congress centenary session here, he said "complex issues" including those of "genetically modified food or nuclear energy or exploration of outer space cannot be settled by faith, emotion and fear but by structured debate, analysis and enlightenment". "Scientific approach and understanding of these issues are, therefore, as vital as our core scientific capabilities," the prime minister said. His remarks come in the wake of controversy over the issue of Bt food products, especially genetically modified brinjal, against which there was a campaign. The Kudankulam nuclear power project in Tamil Nadu has also witnessed protests KOLKATA: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh Thursday unveiled the country's science, technology and innovation policy that he said aims to put India among the top five science powerhouses in the world by 2020. The Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh has announced the new Science and Technology innovation policy' 2013 at the Centenary Session of the Indian Science Congress in Kolkata Thursday. Dr. Singh handed over the first copy of the new policy to the President Mr. Pranab Mukherjee. The President inaugurated the five day long centenary session of the Indian Science over safety concerns. The prime minister said Indians "as a society, must enhance the spread of what Jawaharlal Nehru used to describe as the scientific temper. Our younger generations must adopt a sciencebased value-system in order to benefit from what science can offer and to make up for lost time". Manmohan Singh said science must help in establishing an inclusive society that sought to solve social problems through the application of science. The Jan 3-7 event will see participation of six Nobel laureates and 60 scientists from abroad besides 15,000 contd on page 2

TN to set up mobile monitoring team for firecracker workers safety

CHENNAI: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Jayalalithaa has announced the setting up of a mobile monitoring team under Joint Industrial Chief Inspector to safeguard employees of firecracker, matchbox industries in Virudunahar district. In a statement issued Thursday she contd on page 2

Congress in the presence of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, Union Science & Technology Minister Jaipal

Reddy, Union Communication & Information Technology Minister Kapil Sibal, West

Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and other dignitaries from the field of Science & Technology in

Slight intensity earthquake jolts Manipur, no damages reported

IMPHAL: An earthquake of slight intensity shook Churachandpur region of Manipur on Thursday morning. The quake, which struck at 3.37 AM, measured 4.2 on the Richter scale, the India Meteorological Department said. The epicentre of the quake was contd on page 2

Mushtaq presents dividend Intense cold in Kashmir; Dal Lake freezes cheques of Rs. 85.34 cr to CM
SRINAGAR,JAN 3: Kashmir Valley continued to reel under intense cold as temperatures across the state plunged further, even as the fringes of the famous Dal Lake here were frozen for the first time this winter. The summer capital Srinagar registered the coldest night of the season for the second time this winter as minimum temperature dropped to minus four degrees Celsius, a MeT Department spokesman said. Srinagar had registered the season's coldest night on December 23, when the MeT department recorded the temperature at minus four degrees Celsius. He said Kargil, in the frontier region of Ladakh, was the coldest recorded place in the state with a low of minus 16.2 degrees Celsius, while the nearby Leh town shivered at minus 16.0 degree Celsius. The famous ski-resort of Gulmarg in north Kashmir recorded a low of minus 9.0 degree Celsius, while Pahalgam in south Kashmir registered a minimum of minus 7.8 degrees Celsius, the spokesman said. The minimum temperature recorded at Qazigund, the gateway town of Kashmir on Srinagar-Jammu national

highway, was minus 5.0 degrees celsius, followed by Kokernag in south (minus 4.2) and Kupwara in north Kashmir (minus 4.0). The MeT office said the cold wave conditions will persist for some days in the Valley including Srinagar, as the weather will remain mostly dry across the state. Srinagar had recorded a minimum of minus 3.8 degrees contd on page 2

Fiji mulls redesigning national flag

SUVA: The Fiji government has plans to redesign the country's national flag, reports said citing the prime minister's office Thursday. The move will be the latest attempt by Fiji to distance itself from its colonial past, after the country was suspended from the Commonwealth following a bloodless coup in 2006 and its contd on page 2

Chairman Jammu and Kashmir Bank, Mushtaq Ahmad presenting two cheques worth over Rs. 85.34 crore to Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah as dividends to the State Government at Jammu. JAMMU, JAN 03:Chairman Government, Jaleel Ahmad crores in the same period. He Financial said that the Bank has exhibJammu and Kashmir Bank,, Khan, Finance, ited growth of 41.98 percent Mushtaq Ahmad today pre- Commissioner sented two cheques worth Mohammad Iqbal Khandey, since 30th September 2010 to over Rs. 85.34 crore to Chief Principal Secretary to the 2012 September end in its Minister, Omar Abdullah as Chief Minister, B. B. Vyas deposits while the growth in dividends to the State and senior officers of Jammu advances has been at 75.7 percent during the same periGovernment which holds and Kashmir Bank. The Chairman J&K Bank od. He said that growth in about 53 percent shares in the said that the Bank is poised CD ratio is expected to be Jammu and Kashmir Bank. Present on the occasion for attaining Rs. 1000 crore 109.40 percent by the end of were Minister for Finance, profit by the end of current current financial year when it Abdul Rahim Rather, fiscal and its business is like- stood at 63.96 percent in contd on page 2 Economic Advisor to ly to touch Rs. 100,000 2010.

J&K leaders condemn acid attack incident

SRINAGAR,JAN 3: Leaders across the political parties in Jammu and Kashmir on Thursday condemned the acid attack on a woman in the city, terming it "anti-human" and "moral degradation" and demanded harshest punishment for the accused involved in the case. State secretary of CPI(M) MY Tarigami said the incident should be taken as a wake-up call for the government and the society. "This incident should not be taken in isolation but it reflects the state of crime against women in Kashmir. The police should not take this case causally but instead complete the investigations without delay," Tarigami said in contd on page 2

Over 61,000 passports issued by Srinagar RPO

SRINAGAR,JAN 3: The Regional Passport Office (RPO) here has issued over 61,000 passports to applicants from Kashmir Valley during 2012, almost double compared to last year, an official spokesman said. "Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) under the jurisdiction of Regional Passport Office Srinagar, has issued around 61,400 passports during 2012," he said. He said the PSK issues 270 passports per day on an average, marking an increase of 48 per cent in issuance rate of passports from 2011. "The office also catered to the heavy rush of Haj applicants particularly during April last year when the contd on page 2

Anti-rape law: Women and Child Development Ministry recommends CBI-like cadre
NEW DELHI: The Ministry of Women and Child Development has suggested few measures to ensure safety of women in the country. Apart from pushing for stricter laws that inculcate the fear of crime and need for gender sensitisation, the ministry has also asked for a special cadre to be formed on the lines of the Central Bureau of Investigation or the Narcotics Control Bureau to deal with rape cases and expedite them. It has also suggested that standard operating protocols should be put into place and should be followed by all officials dealing with crimes against women. The ministry recommended that law enforcement officers, military personnel and government officials should not to be given any gallantry awards if any case of assault against women has been filed against them. One of the recommendations was that adequate number of forensic labs should be set up across the country to ensure that the medical examination of a rape victim was contd on page 2

Transformation of agriculture should be top priority: PM

KOLKATA,JAN 3: Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today said transformation of the agricultural sector should be the top priority of the country's public policies including those on science and technology. He also said that complex issues related to genetically modified food, nuclear energy or the exploration of outer space cannot be settled by faith, emotion and fear, but by a structured debate. "Nearly 65 per cent of our people live in rural areas. The12th Five Year Plan assumes that a sustained growth in agriculture at the rate of four contd on page 2

Centre, says drug trials are creating 'havoc' to human life

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Thursday slammed the Centre for its failure to stop illegal clinical trials of untested drugs by multinational companies, saying the drug trials are creating "havoc" in the country and causing death of many citizens. The comments were made during a hearing on a petition detailing deaths and health problems caused by clinical trials carried out on Indians, often without their knowledge or consent. The apex court said that the government has gone into "deep slumber" on the issue and has failed to put in place proper mechanisms to stop "rackets" of multinational companies, which are conducting illegal clinical trials. A bench of justices RM Lodha and AR Dave said in its interim order that all clinical trials will be done under the supervision of the Health Secretary at the Centre. "You have to protect health of citizens of the country. It is your obligation. Deaths must be arrested and illegal trials must be stayed," the bench said, contd on page 2

Urjit Patel appointed as RBI deputy governor

MUMBAI,JAN 3: Urjit Patel, a consultant at Boston Consulting Group, has been appointed a deputy governor at the Reserve Bank of India, succeedingSubir Gokarn who was aiding the governor in shaping the monetary policy. Patel, a doctorate in economics from the Yale University and a non-resident senior fellow at the Brookings Institution, a US-based think-tank , will serve a twoyear term at the regulator, said DK Mittal, secretary, Financial Affairs at the ministry of finance. He would be advising the governor D Subbarao amid an uncertain inflationary scenario and clamour for interest rate cuts due to slowing economic growth. sequently joined Reliance IndustriesBSE 1.51 % as president, in charge of business development. He has also served on the board of Multi Commodity Exchange of India between 2005 and 2008. The acclaimed economist has also been critical of the spending by the government , especially last February when things were just getting out of hand. "At present, India's fiscal position, as measured by such common indicators as the general government budget deficit and the general government gross debt (as shares of GDP) puts it in the same camp as recognised fiscally-stretched economies," contd on page 2

Patel carries a diverse work experience from a private lender to infrastructure projects and at a large industrial house. He has had roles in government departments too, including the RBI. Patel, a critic of fiscal profligacy , was executive director at IDFCBSE 1.34 % between 1996 and 2007 and sub-

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Five per cent cut in India's defence budget

NEW DELHI: Indian Government has imposed around five per cent cut in the Rs 1.93 lakh crore defence budget this year in view of economic slowdown. The Ministry of Finance recently conveyed to the Defence Ministry that there would be a cut of around Rs 10,000 crore in the Rs 1.93 lakh crore allocated for the defence sector, Ministry officials said. After the cut in budget, several key acquisition plans of the three forces including the procurement of 126 combat aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF) are expected to be pushed for the next fiscal, they said. Defence Minister A K Antony had given indications in this regard recently when he said that the Ministry would be struggling to get even the allocated amount. "I am struggling to get the budgetary amount," he had said when asked if he was hopeful of getting the additional Rs 40,000 crore sought by his ministry for modernisation of the three services. In view of the cost-cutting measures, defence forces have been asked by the ministry to concentrate on prioritising their procurements. Under the Rs 1.93 lakh crore budget, Rs 1,13,829 crore is for revenue expenditure including salaries and pensions and Rs 79,579 crore was allocated for modernising the armed forces by acquiring new assets.

Russian Navy to get over 50 warships by 2016

MOSCOW: The Russian Navy will get over 50 new warships by 2016, including strategic nuclear submarines and special operations support vessels, the Defence Ministry said on Thursday. According to the Defence Ministry, Russia is currently in the middle of a huge rearmament programme, with USD 659 billion to be spent on arms procurement by 2020. "By 2016, the combat strength of the Navy will be replenished with 18 surface warships of various ranks and designation, and also 30 special-purpose and counter-subversion vessels," the ministry said in a statement. "It is also planned to put six multi-purpose and strategic submarines into operation." The quality of new generations of surface warships and submarines being built for the Russian Navy will improve with stronger state acceptance control at the shipyards involved in the Navy's shipbuilding programme, it said. The Russian Defence Ministry announced on Wednesday unprecedented naval drills in the Mediterranean and Black Seas in late January with the involvement of warships from the Northern, Baltic, Black Sea and Pacific Fleets. "The Russian Navy's drills of this scope will be held for the first time over the past few decades and are designed to improve control, ensure and practice multi-service force interaction of the fleets in the far-off maritime zones," the ministry stated.

Iran reveals capture of 2 more US drones in past

TEHRAN: An Iranian navy commander claims the country's security forces had captured two small US drones in past missions in addition to at least four others reported earlier. Admiral Amir Rastgari says the two drones were of the small, low-altitude RQ-11 type, according to the semi-official Fars news agency. He said one was captured in the summer of 2011 and the other in November 2012. Rastgari claimed that most of the data from the unmanned aircraft was recovered. Iran's powerful Revolutionary Guard said last month that it had captured a ScanEagle American drone after it entered into Iranian airspace over the Persian Gulf. At the same time, Iran claimed it had taken possession of two other simple, small ScanEagles. In 2011, Iran claimed it brought down a more sophisticated CIA spy drone after it entered Iranian airspace from Afghanistan.

Contd. from page 1...

Prez inaugurates...
participants, including students. The President inaugurated the science congress and said he wished to see India win a Noble Prize in science. Inaugurating the centenary celebrations of the Indian Science Congress here, the president said: "Public and political understanding of science is crucial. For that, I would like to urge upon you all to apply modern tools for communicating science in a manner that can be understood by the common man." "This understanding would contribute to the creation of a science culture in the Indian society," he said at the five-day conclave that will see six Nobel laureates, 60 foreign scientists and 15,000 delegates participating. Citing the example of Indian scientists working a century ago, the president said they delivered lectures in a language that lay people could understand and thus motivated a generation of people to move towards scientific endeavour. "Culture of excellence is the second nature of creative scientists. Eminent scientists of the world have always been concerned as to how their understanding of natural phenomena could be applied to solve social problems of the future," said Mukherjee. He also released the Science, Technology and Innovation Policy that aspires to position India among the top five global scientific powers by 2020. The president said he was delighted to participate in a function that has been co-organised by the Calcutta University as he was an alumnus and remembers the "defining role" of the college in nurturing science. "We need an educational system that lays importance on development of a scientific culture within the society. Mere economic growth without knowledge capacity to manage the dimensions of change would neither suffice nor be appropriate," Mr Mukherjee said.

meeting of the Executive Committee here. The association said all the legal aid will be provided to the victim so that the real culprits are punished in accordance with law.

to cross even on non-travel days in case of exigencies with active support from all agencies concerned.

Fiji mulls...
repeated failure to hold elections. According to Fijian Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama's office, the national flag will be designed this year with a focus on uniting the island nation. The government will revamp Fiji's flag in the prime minister's New Year message. Pio Tikoduadua, permanent secretary to the prime minister's office, said Fiji needs a new identity and this is the way to do it. "Fiji is embarking on a new journey and a new vision. We have a new constitution, a new brand for our national airline, new currencies and we want the flag to include things that are found in Fiji," Tikoduadua told the Fiji Times. The new flag would be like the new currency released this week which captured Fiji's unique flora and fauna, he said. "While there is nothing bad in the current flag, the new flag will be for the people of Fiji." Fijians will be given the opportunity to design the new flag, Tikoduadua said. The government "will put up an advertisement for a competition and people will be asked to design the flag", but the criteria for the design has yet to be confirmed, the official added. It is widely believed the Union Jack will be dropped from Fiji's current national flag.

Centre, says...
asking the government to handle the "menace" on an urgent basis. It pulled up the government after it was contended that various committees have been set up to look into the issue and that it will come back to the court after getting suggestions from them. "You can get back to the court but what about those people who are losing their lives in such clinical trials. People who lost their lives can't get their lives back," the bench observed. "It is very easy to form a committee or a commission. It is done just to divert people's attention on the issue. It is the best way to divert attention on important issues," the bench said. The court said that the government is "shying away" from responding to its queries while noting that the affidavit filed by the Centre was not in consonance with its earlier order. On October 8, 2012, the apex court had sought the reply of the Centre and various state governments on the allegation that human beings were being used as guinea pigs for clinical trials by drug companies. It had directed the Union government to come out with details of the deaths, if any, and the side effects and compensation, if any, paid to the victims or their family members. The court's direction came during the hearing of a public interest litigation (PIL), filed by NGO Swasthya Adhikar Manch, alleging large-scale clinical drug trials across the country by various pharmaceutical firms using Indian citizens as guinea pigs in those tests. The bench had, however, refrained from passing any blanket ban on the trials and, instead, sought a comprehensive reply from the Centre on various issues. The NGO had alleged that the clinical trials by several pharmaceutical companies were going on indiscriminately in various states. However, the Madhya Pradesh government had contended that the states cannot be faulted for the tests as the permissions for trials were granted by the Central Government without consulting them. The argument, however, did not impress the bench which had pointed out that the said clinical trials were conducted in state governments' hospitals whose employees and doctors were under the control of the respective state governments. It had then proceeded to issue notices to all the states, through their chief secretaries, for their responses and posted the matter for further hearing after eight weeks.

Anti-rape law...
done in a stipulated time. It also suggested that SOS booths should be stationed in every locality to address violence against women and more grievance cells and counselling centers should be set up. The ministry also said that there must be zero tolerance towards all crimes against women and incidents of stalking and eve teasing should be treated seriously. It suggested that concrete measures should be taken for rehabilitation and compensation for survivors of violence. State support for treatment of acid attack victims was also one of the recommendations. These suggestions, which are a part of the minutes from a meeting that took place on December 28 , 2012, will be submitted to the Justice Verma Committee. The three-member committee headed by former Chief Justice of India JS Verma has been constituted to recommend provisions to amend the rape laws. The meeting was attended by few women groups and officers from Health, Law and Home ministries. Meanwhile, Women and Child Development Minister Krishna Tirath has said that she is in favour of death penalty for rapists. "We are debating the most suitable and strictest punishment that should be given. However, if the public says that the accused must be hanged, I will agree with them," she said.

65 percent expenditure made under current year's Annual Plan in Anantnag District
ANANTNAG, JAN 03: A meeting for reviewing the performance under District plan and centrally sponsored schemes for the period ending December 2012-13 was conducted at Dak Bungalow Khanabal Anantnag under the chairmanship of District Development Commissioner, Anantnag, Mr. Farooq Ahmad Shah. The meeting was attended by all District officers. While taking the review of the achievements made under various sectors, it was told that under R&B sector, 55.75 Kms and 38.40 Kms against targets of 81.47 Kms and 42.56 Kms of roads were metalled and blacktopped by making an expenditure of Rs 7.39 crores. Under PMGSY out of 116 schemes of phase III to VII 69 schemes were completed with an expenditure of Rs. 107 crores, In phase VII, (sanctioned recently) out of 43 schemes, 20 projects have been tendered. Under MGNREGA, an expenditure of Rs. 19 crores has been made thereby generating 8.59 lakh mandays and completing 2812 numbers of works against an availability of Rs. 22 crores. In lAY an expenditure of Rs. 8.12 crores against total availability of Rs. 12 crore has been made. 2272 number of lAY Houses have been constructed against the target of 5486 houses and the remaining 3114 IAY houses are under progress. Under PHE sector, out of 5 NO of targeted schemes, WSS Brimer Nersar has been completed at an estimated cost of Rs. 43.47 lakhs benefiting 1137 souls. An expenditure of Rs. 1.80 crore against availability of Rs. 2.86 crores has been made upto December 2012. Under Education sector, 83338 students have been provided with free text books, 248 girl toilets have been constructed and 93093 students have been provided Mid day meals. Under the SKEWPY, 5543 educated unemployed youth were provided VSA amounting to Rs. 3.34 crores. While concluding, the District Development Commissioner reiterated upon the officers to provide all types of service to general masses up to their satisfaction and incorporate ethical standards in their service delivery.

Urjit Patel appointed...

Patel wrote as per a paper put on the website of Bookings Institution. "India has had a run of four years of general government deficit of about 10% of GDP, of which the central government's share is twothirds . Against this background, it is difficult to reject claims that the recent growth performance has been propped up by unsustainable aggregate demand policies." In the initial years of his career in 1983 he worked as research assistant at the University of London and subsequently with Oxford University. He was also an intern at the World Bank. The government had given Gokarn, 53, one-month extension which ended on December 31. A committee headed by RBI governor D Subbarao had short-listed three candidates for the post - Gokarn, Kalpana Kochhar , division chief and senior advisor at IMF, and Urjit Patel for the post.

DDC Ramban convenes meeting with prominent citizens

RAMBAN, JAN 03: In order to redress the general grievances of the peoples of the District, a meeting was convened today under the Chairmanship of District Development Commissioner, Ramban, Shabir Ahmad at Ramban. SSP Traffic NHW, SP Ramban Sh. Anil Magotra, Addl DC Sh. B.A. Khan, Ghansham Singh, Mohd Saleem Malik, ACD, Ramban and District Officers of all the departments attended the meeting. Nearly fifty prominent citizens from all section of society participated. During the course of meeting the prominent citizens pointed out various issues relating to ration cards, shortage of staff in Health & Education Departments, issue relating to Ration cards, preparation of job card for MGNREGA works, restoration of disrupted power lines, menace of overloading and overcharging by Autoriksha operating in Ramban town, improvement of health services in the District Hospital Ramban, cleanliness and beautification of Ramban town, opening of HP Gas Agency counter, launching of afforestration programme to increase the vegetation cover. Participants unanimously voiced their demand for opening of women college in Ramban, Flyover/Bridge from Ramban town to Maitra, Bus Service from Ramban to Maitra and launching of anti drugs drive in the district. DDC, Ramban assured the participants that district administration will make all out efforts to redress genuine grievances of the peoples. DDC issued on spot instructions to the concerned officers of the different Departments for resolving the demands/issues put forth by the citizens. SP Ramban also highlighted the measures taken by the police in the maintenance of law and order in the district. He exhorted upon the participants/citizens to maintain peace, brotherhood and harmony.

Intense cold...
Celsius yesterday and the further dip in the temperature resulted in the freezing of Dal Lake and many other water bodies. The lake has frozen several times in the past during chilly winters.

Mushtaq presents...
Mushtaq Ahmad said that the number of Bank branches has gone up from 529 in September 2010 to 662 by the end of last fiscal. He said the Bank has financed 1148 units established under SKEWPY besides providing finances to 5767 artisans. He said the Bank has opened 133 new branches and 269 ATMs since September 2010 and has a plan of opening more 100 new branches and 150 ATMs by the end of current financial year.

Transformation of...
per cent per annum is essential to achieve food security," Singh told the centenary session of Indian Science Congress here. "This transformation of the agriculture sector must be the top priority concern of our public policies, including science and technology policies," Singh said. Noting growth was constrained by shortage of water and land, he said, "We need new breakthroughs in water-saving technologies in cultivation, enhancement of land productivity and development of climate-resilient varieties". Releasing the country's Science, Technology and Innovation Policy 2013, the Prime Minister said, "India aspires to be among the top five global scientific powers by 2020". He said development in science and technology had been central to the phenomenal material advancement and efficiency in the use of resources. "As India seeks a sustained growth in national income, we must endeavour to harness the tools of science and technology to cater to the needs of the underprivileged and to bridge the gap between have and have-nots," Singh said. The Prime Minister also called upon the younger generation to adopt science-based value system in order to benefit from what the discipline could offer.

K'taka govt...
The distress meassage would be flashed to more than 1000 mobile police vans and 365 motorcycles on duty,who will tehn rush to the help of the woman in distress. Mr.Ashoka also informed that Goonda act will be used against eve-teasers in the state. The state Government has also made it mandatory for all cab and bus drivers in the city to register with police stations and fit their vehicles with GPS devices. CCTVs are placed at strategic locations and an awareness campaign is being launched in the city to educate women about security and safety aspects. Mr. Ashoka also disclosed that the measures taken by the state will be conveyed to the Union Home Minister during a meeting in New Delhi tomorrow.

J&K leaders ...

a statement here. Tarigami said the guilty deserve harshest punishment so that it acts as a deterrent for any such incidents in future and demanded a speedy trial into the case. Chairman of Hardline faction of Hurriyat, Syed Ali Shah Geelani expressed grief and concern over the attack, terming it "anti-human" and "immoral". Demanding strictest punishment to the guilty, Geelani said such incidents have no place in the society as it is an attack on humanity. JKLF chairman Yasin Malik also condemned the incident, saying the attack has exhibited the moral degradation in the society. A 30-year-old school teacher suffered injuries when she was attacked with acid by a youth in the city's posh locality on Srinagar airport road yesterday. The youth identified as Riyaz Ahmad was later arrested by the police. The woman was admitted to SMHS hospital here and her condition is said to be stable. Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir High Court Bar Association today decided not to provide legal aid to the youth, arrested in connection with the incident. "The Bar Association has decided that the accused person will not be provided any legal aid," a statement of the association said after a

SDM reviews R-day arrangements at Bhaderwah

BHADERWAH, JAN 03:To review the arrangement for upcoming Republic Day2013, the Sub Divisional Magistrate (SDM), Bhaderwah, Dr Ravi Kumar Bharti convened a meeting of officers of different departments here today. A detail discussion on various arrangement issues which included security, power and potable drinking water facility, security, medical facility, fire safety measure, seating arrangements at the venue and issuance of invitation cards was held in the meeting. It was decided in the meeting that the VIP will hoist the national flag at 10 a m and shall take salute from the marching contingent to be drawn from JKAP, NCC, boys and girls and tiny platoons from the government/private school besides cultural programmes to be performed by the students of various schools. The meeting withheld the decision on the venue of the function. Among others, the meeting was attended by Tehsildar Bhaderwah, Addl SP, SDPO Bhaderwah, Principal Boys and Girls HSS and various officers of the other departments.

TN to set ...
said that the team will conduct surprise inspections and monitor the health and safety aspects of employees. She said that the team also create awareness about safety norms to be followed in such industries. It should be noted that 38 persons died in a firecracker accident in Muthalaipetti on 5th of September last year and eight people died in Salem firecracker accident last month. The government is to spend 38 lakh seventy thousand rupees for setting up this team. Jayalalithaa also issued orders to connect the industrial zones with the nearby ESI medical centres.

Provincial Veterinary Field Staff Association hails Secy Animal Husbandry

JAMMU, JAN 3: A meeting of provincial Veterinary Field Staff Association was held today. The association has expressed gratitude and appreciation to M. A. Bukhari Secretary, Animal/Sheep Husbandry Department and Dr. P. K. Magotra, Director Animal Husbandry Department, Jammu for affecting promotions of veterinary pharamacists, senior Veterinary pharmacists and livestock supervisors to the next higher cadres thereby meeting the long pending demand of promotion of Para Veterinary staff. The Association has assured the administration that they will work with zeal and dedication and achieve various targets for welfare of the farming community.

Over 61,000...
applicants were issued Haj passports against affidavit only," he said. In addition to passport related services, the office facilitated hassle-free travel across Line of Control at Kaman Post and Teetwal, the spokesman said, adding passengers were allowed

Slight intensity...
24.3 degrees north on the latitude and 93.1 degrees east on the longitude. No loss of life or property was reported from anywhere in the region. A slight intensity tremor had shook Nepal on Wednesday night, the Met Department said.

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STATE

3
Several deputations call on Gul
JAMMU, JAN 03: Several deputations and individuals from various parts of Kashmir and Jammu today called on the Advisor to Chief Minister Mr. Mubarak Gul and projected their demands. The deputations and individuals apprised him about the problems confronted to them and sought early redressal of the same. The deputation of All J&K Lumbardar Association demanded enhancement of honorarium and construction of a Lumberdar House at Jammu. The deputation of Rural Development Society (Migrant Cell) led by its Chairman, Mr. Ashok Koul demanded enhancement of cash Migrant Relief and full implementation of PM's package for Kashmiri migrants . A deputation from Ganderbal, led by NC Block President Sadpora, besides an individual, demanded construction of link roads at Ganderbal and opening of an Anganwari Centre at block Sadpora, at an earliest. Mr. Gul gave a patient hearing to the deputationists and individuals and said that he will take up the issues at the appropriate forum for early redressal of the same. He said that coalition government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, was serious to address the genuine problems of the public on priority, adding that the administration has been geared up to attend these problems. He said that several schemes in Social Welfare sector have been launched by the Government for the upliftment of people. He called upon the Panchs, Sarpanchs and village Lumberdars to make the people aware so that they could take maximum benefit of these schemes.

NEWS IN BOX

Omar Govt violated Constitution in certain appointments:JKNPP

JAMMU,JAN 3: Jammu and Kashmir National Panthers Party (JKNPP) today alleged the Omar Abdullah led government has violated the Constitution for appointing ministers through "back-door". "We urge the President of India and state Governor to take cognisance of blatant transgressions of the Constitution by state government as it has violated certain sections and appointed ministers through back-door," JKNPP chairman Harsh Dev Singh told reporters. Singh said that the Omar government has created certain extra-constitutional authorities in violation of Section 36 and 38 respectively of the Jammu and Kashmir Constitution. "Section 36 of the state Constitution categorically say that ministers shall be appointed by the Governor while Section 38 points that number of ministers shall not exceed twenty per cent of the total membership of state legislature," the JKNPP leader said. He alleged that the Omar government has appointed several of its political activists on key positions as advisor and political advisor and conferred ministers status upon them without the approval of the Governor.

Dy CM reviews functioning of H&UD

JAMMU, JAN 03: Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand has stressed upon officers of Housing & Urban Development Department to gear up for ensuring timely completion of prestigious urban development projects launched for all round urban infrastructure development of the state. He said ambitious initiatives have been taken in the field and need is to prioritize the works for their completion. Mr. Tara Chand chaired a high level meeting of officers to review the progress of different works and timely completion of various projects. Minister of State for Housing &Urban Development, PHE and Tourism Nasir Aslam Wani was also present in the meeting. The meeting held discussions with regard to the implementation of various Housing and Urban Development works, besides sanitation and other civic amenities being provided to the people. He took up a detailed review of all performance and achievements Stand. Other parking slots to be made at Panjtirthi, Sawaz Mandi, Parade and various other locations were also discussed in the meeting. Tara Chand said maximum benefit can be only be reaped when undertaken works are completed within the stipulated time frame and calendar for the works is strictly adhered too. He cautioned the officers that no laxity would be tolerated. The Deputy Chief Minister took a detailed review of the ongoing drainage projects by NBCC, ERA, UEED and other agencies and exhorted the need to gear up the men and machinery for timely completion of these works. Tara Chand said that action plans should be chalked out in advance and shared with the line departments for carrying out works as per timeline. The Deputy Chief Minister directed the executing agencies to speed up pace of different works so that benefits percolate to the poorest of the poor.

Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand addressing public gathering at Jammu. of H&UD Department under different central and state funded schemes and projects. While reviewing progress on Rehabilitation of Dal Dwellers, the Deputy Chief Minister said that 356 crore have been approved by the Government of India for the upgradation of Dal Lake. He exhorted upon the officers for early rehabilitation of Dal Dwellers so that the upgradation and beautification work of Dal Lake would be completed in a time bound manner. He also reviewed progress on proposal of multi tier parking at Bus

Court has banned use of curtains in all type of vehicles

JAMMU, JAN 03:The Inspector General of Police Traffic (IG) Mr. Munir Ahmad Khan today said that the Hon'ble Court has already banned the use of curtains in all type of vehicles including Government vehicles. The Public in general and the vehicle owners including drivers in particular has been advised to remove curtains from their vehicles besides black films/tinted glass or any allied material henceforth. He cautioned that if any vehicle including Government vehicles is found using curtains, black films/tinted glasses shall be impounded. Mr. Khan said the use of black films/tinted glasses/ curtains and other allied material shall not only amount to the violation of the Hon'ble Court directions but will also amount to contempt of the Hon'ble Court.

PDD appeals for judicious use of power

JAMMU, JAN 03:The Power Development Department has appealed the general public to use power judiciously by restricting their power load to bare minimum and to cooperate with the department. Due to extreme cold and foggy climatic conditions, the power demand has increased tremendously on one hand and self generation from Baghliar and other Hydel Power Projects of the state has come down to 150 MW and 935 MW against their capacity of 450 MW and 296 MW respectively due to lower river discharge leading to increased over drawl from Northern Grid. To maintain grid discipline repeated warnings are issued by NRLDC to restrict power load and unscheduled power cuts are enforced by Northern Grid by opening 220/132 KV lines. Opening of KishanpurBarn Line alone results in shutdown of seven grid stations namely Barn, Canal, Pounichak, Akhnoor, Jourian, Katra and Janipur. To tide over the situation additional power cuts are being enforced in unmetered as well as metered areas. The situation is likely to continue till the weather improves and the generation increases.

Sakina distributes aids to specially abled persons at CRC Sgr

SRINAGAR, JAN 03: The Rehabilitation Council of Jammu and Kashmir in collaboration with Composite Regional Centre (CRC), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, Bemina, Srinagar organized free rehabilitation/distribution camp for the persons with disabilities today at CRC campus. The Minister for Social Welfare, ARI Trainings and Public Grievances, Ms. Sakina Itoo inaugurated the camp. More than 400 beneficiaries, Rehabilitation workers attended the camp and 50 Hearing Aids, 30 WheelChairs, 15 Tri-cycles, 30 pair of Auxiliary Crutches and 20 Walking Sticks were distributed on the spot among the beneficiaries. Speaking on the occasion, the Minister highlighted the role of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation Council and urged that needy beneficiaries should avail benefits of these schemes, so that they live with dignity and honour. She also urged that Social Welfare department should in identify the beneficiaries in far flung areas so that they will also avail the benefits of various schemes and programmes. On this occasion, first Newsletter (Shehjar) was released by the Minister. The newsletter containing the detailed account of various schemes and programmes being implemented by the Social Welfare Department for the welfare of Women, Children, Old-age persons, militancy hit victims, specially abled persons and the student community. The Minister appreciated the efforts made by the Director Social Welfare Kashmir for taking bold initiatives for publishing of this Newsletter. Speaking on the occasion, Director CRC Mr. Bashir Ahmad Bhat highlighted the programmes and schemes being implemented by the CRC and Social Welfare Department in the interest of persons with disabilities in J&K. The Director CRC also focused the activities done by the CRC and Social Welfare department Kashmir like clinical activities, rehabilitation courses, distribution of aids and appliances, organizing of outreach Rehabilitation Camps to benefit the persons with disabilities and applauded the role of Minister in taking keen interest in these schemes and programmes. The Executive Director, Rehabilitation Council of Jammu and Kashmir, Ms. Hafiza Muzaffar highlighted the role of Council and stated that these types of rehabilitation camps shall be conducted in all districts of the State, where beneficiaries will be given aids and appliances free of cost under ADIP scheme.

Sagar visits Nowpora fire victims

SRINAGAR, JAN 03: Minister for Rural Development, Law, Justice, Parliamentary Affairs and Panchayati Raj, Mr. Ali Mohammad Sagar today visited Nowpora area of Khanyar where huge property was gutted in a fire incident on the other day. Minister expressed his grief over loss of property in the incident and expressed sympathy with the affected families Sagar was accompanied by Additional Deputy Commissioner Srinagar and other concerned officers.

Employment Fair at Smailpur

SAMBA, JAN 03: A meeting was held under the chairmanship of District Development Commissioner Samba, Mr. Mubarak Singh for making necessary arrangements for the Employment fair being organized by the District Employment and Counselling Centre, Samba on 10th and 11thJanuary at Sports Stadium Smailpur. DDC directed all the officers present in the meeting for their cooperation to make this fair a successful event. He said that such programmes are important to make masses aware about different employment generating schemes being implemented by various departments He also directed the concerned departments for making the necessary arrangements like water, sanitation, electricity etc. Additional Deputy Commissioner Samba Sh. Bikram Singh Jamwal, Assistant Director Employment, Chief Planning Officer, Chief Education officer were also present on the occasion.

ATMA governing board meet held

REASI, JAN 03: The Governing Board meeting of Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) was held here today under the Chairmanship of District Development Commissioner, Reasi, Mrs. Nirmal Sharma to review and approve the action Plan for its implementation in the district during 2012-13. The meeting was attended by all the Sectoral Officers of the district representing as Members of Governing Board. The action plan to the tune of Rs. 25.79 lakh was approved in the meeting for technology dissemination at the village level by involvement of active participation of farmers. The action plan include Rs. 15.17 Lacs for Agriculture Sector, Rs. 5.08 Lacs for Horticulture sector and Rs.5.54 lacs made available for other agriculture allied sectors. A considerable budget provisions has been earmarked for Human Resource Development, conduct of farmer's technical tours, trainings and interaction involved at the research stations through front line demonstrations to boost-up the production and productivity of Agriculture and allied sectors. Underlining the need for adopting a proactive, professional and scientific approach while formulating various programmes for the benefit and welfare of the farmers, DDC exhorted upon the officers to work in a coordinated manner so that farmers get benefits of the schemes in a hassle free manner. A Committee of officers was constituted which would nominate the farmers from four blocks of the district so that they could be awarded for their contribution in the sector. The committee would also be responsible for holding awareness camps for disseminating different income generating schemes of various departments.

2-days workshop on 6th Economic Census inaugurated

JAMMU, JAN 03: DDG, NSSO (FOD), Government of India Sher Singh inaugurated two day workshop on 6th Economic Census here today. The aim of this workshop is to train the master trainersregarding filling up of schedules of 6EC in the field and care to be taken while canvassing the schedules. The master trainers are supposed to further impart training to the field functionaries at various levels before launching of field operations of the Economic Census. Director Economics & Statistics B R Lachotra highlighted the importance of Economic Census. He intimated the participants that main aim of conduct of Economic census is to prepare a frame of all enterprises engaged in various economic activities which serves as a tool for conducting follow up surveys pertaining to any specific economic activity. He further said that Economic census is conducted by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, GoI in association with State Directorates of Economics & Statistics on quinquennial basis and the present Census will be 6th in a row. The DES has made elaborate arrangements for successful launch of the census. B. R Lachotra impressed upon the participants to take the workshop very seriously so that will prove productive and beneficial for them Sr Consultant from Ministry of Statistics, GoI H. K. Sharma, imparted training to the master trainers. He was assisted by Babu Ram, Assistant Director (E&S). The participants who attended the workshop included Tariq Ahmad, Dr H.S Arora, Rajni Charak, Joint Directors, DSEOs and Officers and officials of the Directorate of Economics & Statistics and its field Agencies.

Teachings of saints of great significance: Tara Chand

JAMMU, JAN 03: Saying that the preachings of great saints and gurus are of great significance to make a world of peace and prosperity, Deputy Chief Minister Tara Chand called upon people to enthuse in themselves such spiritual teachings to fight the challenges of today's era of confusion and chaos. The Minister was addressing a religious gathering here today. Devotees and followers of Guru Dwarka Nath Shastri Ji participated in 108th Kundia Yagya which started from 24th of December, 2012. Minister of State for CAPD Shabir Ahmed Khan was also present on the occasion. Tara Chand said that government is determined to develop religious places in the State as major religious tourist destinations. He asked Director Tourism Jammu to make a comprehensive proposal in this regard.

Nayak, Mehta to be Prpl Secys, Diwedi, Jamwal, Factoo to be Commr

JAMMU, JAN 03:The State cabinet which met here today under the chairmanship of Chief Minister, Mr. Omar Abdullah approved promotion of Mr. Sundeep Kumar Nayak and Mr. Arun Kumar Mehta to the higher administrative grade of IAS. Consequent upon this, the officers would be designated as Principal Secretaries to Government. The Cabinet also approved promotion of Mr. Manoj Kumar Diwedi, Mr. Dev Singh Jamwal, Mr. Farooq Ahmed Factoo to super time scale of IAS to be designated as CommissionerSecretaries to Government. The Cabinet also promoted Sheikh Mushtaq Ahmed, Mrs. Vineeta Gupta, Mr. Shahid Anayatullah, Mr. Tushar Kanti Sharma to the Selection grade of IAS. The Cabinet also approved the promotion of Mr. Shahid Iqbal and Ms Sushma Chouhan to senior time scale of IAS. Consequent upon their promotion, the officers have been designated as Additional Secretaries to Government. Meanwhile, the Cabinet also approved reemployment of Mr. Inayatullah Khan, Director Forensic Science Laboratory (J&K) and Mr. Harnam Chand Bhagat, Deputy Director Forensic Science Laboratory (J&K) for a period of one year.

RD arrangements Reviewed at Kathua

KATHUA, JAN 03: In Order to review the arrangements for Republic Day celebrations 2013, District Development Commissioner, Kathua, Ms Zahida Parveen Khan convened a meeting at Conference Hall of DC Office Complex, here at Kathua. It was informed that the main function will be held at Sports Stadium Kathua. The contingents drawn from CRPF, District Police, Police Training School, NCC and platoons from Government as well as private educational institutions will participate in the March past. Cultural Items on the patriotic theme would be presented on the occasion. The Day will start with playing of Shahnai Vadan by Information Department at Deputy Commissioner Office and SSP office in the wee hours. The flag hoisting ceremony will take place at 10 AM at the venue. The arrangements for security, Drinking water, Power supply, Sanitation, Barricading, medical aid were also reviewed in the meeting.

DDC Flagged off Students Rally

POONCH, JAN 03:As a part of Road Safety Week DDC Poonch Mr. A.K. Sahu flagged off a massive students rally from GHS Purnai Poonch which culminated at GBHSS Poonch today. Students were carrying playcards displaying road safety rules to be observed to save precious lives. Rally was organized by Asstt. Regional Transport Officer Poonch in coordination with educational institutions. An awareness function was conducted at GBHSS were DDC, SP, ARTO and other speakers threw light on importance of celebration of Road Safety Week. They impressed upon drivers and other participants to observe traffic rules in letters and spirits to avoid fatal accidents to ensure safety of roads and of precious lives. Speakers instructed the audience to avoid driving while talking on mobile phones and intoxication of any substance, use of seatbelts and fitness of vehicles be made a habit prior to driving. ARTO has chalked a comprehensive schedule to conduct such awareness programme throughout the district to aware the people regarding safe driving of vehicles.

Poonch deputation led by Jan calls on Rana

JAMMU, JAN 3:A deputation of Sarpanchs and Panches of Poonch district led by Aijaz Ahmad Jan, MLA Poonch met Political Advisor to the Chief Minister Devender Singh Rana here today. Conveying good wishes on the New Year they congratulated him on the victory of all coalition candidates in the recently held Legislative Council elections for the seats reserved for Panchayats. The deputation brought some issues of public importance into the notice of the Political Advisor which included providing water supply in Khanater area, ensuring supply of electricity in the snow-bound areas of Mandi Block and on-spot police

Awareness camp postponed

RAJOURI, JAN 03: Deputy Director, Sericulture Development, Rajouri informed the general public that the awareness camp being organized by J&K Advisory Board for Development of Kissan through Sericulture Development Department at Sunderbani on January 05, 2013 is postponed due to bad weather conditions and the fresh date shall be communicated later on.

Political Advisor to the CM Devender Singh Rana giving a patient hearing to Poonch deputation. recruitment in the area for the unemployed youth. They also expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister through the Political Advisor for opening new Middle Schools in the area and acceding to their other important public demands. The Political Advisor gave them a patient hearing and assured them that the demands raised by them will be brought to the notice of the Chief Minister.

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wealth in all important offices of State, in our churches, in our Armed Forces, in all parts of this beautiful country, France. We declared that the most humble man in this country is equal to the greatest. The freedom that we have gained for ourselves, we have offered it to all the slaves in the world". In the case of China, the tyranny of privileges is born with the Party. Was not the end the monopoly of birth and wealth the first objective of the Chinese Revolution in 1949? This has abysmally failed; it is certain that the leaders are today aware of this failure. Are Indian politicians ready to acknowledge that they failed since Independence? In China, the question remains: Will Xi Jinping and his colleagues manage to return to the basics, and offer a 'peaceful' revolution to the people? The problem is that they themselves have their roots in the system which has not succeeded. The reaction of the Chinese bloggers is interesting. They quote Tocqueville: "Great revolutions that have happened historically, such as violent revolutions, did not occur during a time of poverty. They occurred when economic situations brought polarisation to society. This is because at times like these, conflict between social classes is incited. It is easy for those in the bottom classes of the society to turn the flames of their anger into flames of war." Many scholars believe that the conditions in China are not different from the situation in France before the 1789 Revolution. One netizen wrote: "Tocqueville's description of the social conflict in France before the revolution and its development is a lot similar to today's China. If they remove the word 'France', it's like a high resolution picture of Chinese society. Due to the improvement of material life and increase in wealth, the amount of ignorance, arrogance, greediness, dissolution, shamelessness and depravity compared to the old days before the revolution in France is simply greater." But another microblog wisely advised: "It's better to watch what they actually do than to listen to what they say and try to guess what it means." In a recent report about the Chinese contemporary society, website Chinascope argues that the people have lost confidence in the Government. It quotes Xun Zi (313 BC-238 BC), the famous philosopher: "The Emperor is the boat and the people are the water. Water can carry the boat, but also capsize the boat." The report concludes: "If the Chinese people continue to distrust their Government and actions against the Government intensify, it may be inevitable for the Party-boat to capsize." During his first speech as CCP General Secretary, Mr Xi quoted an ancient Chinese proverb which stated, "Things must have gone rotten before insects can grow". He asked his partymen to stay clean and self-disciplined. Former Peking University professor Zhang Weiying has an interesting theory on the subject. He told a public forum in China that corruption poses a serious threat to the Communist Party and not the nation. Mr Zhang admitted that corruption in the Chinese Communist Party has been worsening; he even said that few officials would be found free of corrupt behavior if they were all put under investigation. The question seems to be, will China or the Party alone capsize, if corruption is not reined. The year 2013 should bring us some elements of answer. China's present leaders are not followers of Mao any more. The Great Helmsman had written: "Revolution is not a tea party. It is not like writing an essay, painting or embroidering flowers; revolution is an act of violence, it is the violent overthrow of one class by another." The new Emperors would prefer a gentler method. Will they succeed? India may soon face the same predicament, if burning issues are not acknowledged and acted upon in a timely manner. One solution is to have a 'non-partisan' Cabinet Minister to tackle the issue of corruption. Is the Union Government interested?

Take a leaf out of the mighty dragon's book

he new rulers of China have been quick and unambiguous in acknowledging the spread of corruption in Government. In India, the UPA regime remains in denial mode even after being hit by many huge scams Everyone knows that in terms of infrastructure development, China is today far in advance compared to India. Most observers will say that it is due to the authoritarian nature of the regime in Beijing: Decisions are taken and implemented, and that is it. India has the excuse of being the 'largest democracy in the world', with its pluses, but also with its impediments and negative collaterals. There is another field in which Beijing is more serious than Delhi: It is corruption awareness. I am not talking about combating the plague, but simply being aware of it and not brushing it under the carpet, as it is done in India where the Government does not even acknowledge that thousands of rich Indian have accounts in Switzerland and other tax paradises. Not many in India may have heard of Wang Qishan, one of China's seven new bosses. The official 'profile' of this member of the Standing Committee of the Communist Party's Politburo says: "He can do it". Xinhua website commented, "Wang Qishan took up a challenging new mission last month to lead China's top discipline watchdog [known as the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection], amid rising calls for crackdown on corruption". It added: "Simply more than a month into his new role, Wang has demonstrated the same style that previously won his fame as a troubleshooter in the economic field: Tough, resolute and confident in front of difficulties." Can you imagine a senior Cabinet Minister of India, responsible for tackling corruption at the highest level of the Indian State? Unfortunately for India, the senior politicians are mostly in denial mode: There is no 2G Spectrum scam, no Coalgate affair, etc. It is only an invention

By Claude Arpi

of the journalists (or the CAG), they say! At the end of November, soon after his election, Mr Wang told a symposium: "Ethics of the Party determines its survival or demise... In the fight against corruption, we must convince the public that we are making more and more concrete efforts and delivering more and more powerful blows." Is it because the disease in a terminal stage than China takes more seriously this critical issue? One of the blows suggested by Mr Wang is to recommend the 19th-century classic on the French revolution (The Old Regime and the Revolution) written by the French historian, Alexis de Tocqueville. An article on the website Global Voices says that this has attracted thousands of comments on the Chinese blogosphere. Mr Wang seems to believe that China could witness a 'French' Revolution, if it does not manage to rein corruption. Seventy wellknown Chinese academics and lawyers recently signed a proposal urging the new leadership to start political reforms, including the separation of the Party from the State. Professor Zhang Qianfan of Peking University Law School prepared the 'proposal' calling on the Party to manage the State according to its Constitution, protect freedom of speech, encourage private enterprise, foster judicial independence, and allow the people to elect their own representatives. It asked Beijing to take headon issues such as social injustice, corruption, and the abuse of Government authority; otherwise, it concludes, "China runs the risk of revolution or chaos if it does not change." Is the possibility of a Revolution la French looming over China's ancient Communist regime? By recommending Tocqu- eville's book, Mr Wang probably wanted to highlight the dark sides of the French Revolution, which nonetheless helped Europe to come out of the 'regime of privileges'. I wonder if Mr Wang read this speech of Danton, the great French revolutionary: "We ended the monopoly of birth and

Slashing budget for Armed Forces is wrong

fter a year that saw the Armed Forces significantly slow down its modernisation efforts despite outrage over its lack of operational preparedness, a reversal of this trend was strongly expected in the new year. Unfortunately, that does not seem to be happening. The Union Ministry of Finance has recently slashed the defence budget by a whopping Rs10,000 crore, ostensibly due to the economic downturn. The cut will be imposed entirely upon the capital acquisition section of the budget that deals with the purchase of weapons and equipment. Consequently, several efforts to upgrade and modernise the Armed Forces will come to a grinding halt. Primary among them is the deal between the Indian Air Force and Dassault Aviation of France - for the supply of 126 Rafale fighter planes - which is in the nearlast stages of finalisation. But now it seems like it will be a long time before the Air Force actually receives the much-needed and already much-delayed medium multi-role combat aircraft. Equally hit will be the Army's plan to raise, in collaboration with the Air Force, a new mountain strike corps to effectively respond to threats that may emanate from an increasingly belligerent China. Pegged at a cost of more than Rs60,000 crore, this project is possibly the most ambitious one planned for the 12th Five Year Plan Period. But its urgency is lost on the babus of South Block who are seemingly indifferent to the threat posed by the emerging ChinaPakistan military nexus. Moreover, there are also several other projects and proposals mooted by the Armed Forces regarding capital acquisition that will now surely be shelved for

lack of funds. For example, over the next five years, the Army had wanted to acquire new capabilities and plug operational loopholes in its artillery division and night-fighting abilities, among others. But given that the overhaul plan would cost about Rs10 lakh crore, it will probably be put in cold storage as well. After all, to begin with, in the 2012-2013 Budget, the Armed Forces were only allocated Rs1.93 lakh crore of the Rs2.39 lakh crore which they had sought in the first place. Union Minister for Defence AK Antony had in May last year promised that he would ask for a hike in the defence outlay - more than half of which is incidentally spent on revenue expenses (salary, pension etc) and not on capital acquisitions - keeping in mind "new ground realities" and a "changing security scenario". But now, not only is that budgetary hike a distant dream, the Armed Forces must also grapple with a further reduction in funds. Mr Antony has pleaded helplessness in the backdrop of the fiscal crisis. Of course, that does not take away from the fact that it is the UPA regime's large-scale, fiscal mismanagement over the years that has brought things in the first place to such a sorry pass. In the eight years that it has been at helm, this Congress-led coalition has engaged in the worst-kind of populist politics possible - preferring doles over development. As a result, so much money has been squandered on wasteful projects such as the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act that it is no wonder there is little left to ensure national security. Yet, there is no indication that any lessons are being learnt.

STATE WATCH

Direct cash transfer scheme a sham, says Mayawati

LUCKNOW: BSP chief Mayawati lashed out at the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government's direct cash transfer scheme here, describing it as a ploy to hoodwink voters in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. "This is an old book with a new cover," the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) supremo told reporters, pointing that scholarships for the Scheduled Castes (SC) and the Scheduled Tribes (ST) in the state initiated under her chief ministership was already in place where financial aid was transferred straight to the bank accounts to the allurements," she said. 'Aapka paisa, aapke haath', the credo coined by the UPA government was nothing but a "sham and a political stunt aimed at fooling the electorate," she alleged. Her remarks came a day after the central government began the New Year by rolling out the ambitious direct cash transfer of benefits covering seven welfare schemes in 20 districts across the country. Mayawati asked people to keep the Congress away from power as it has never worked for the people, Dalits and minorities. The former chief minister condemned the Dec 16 Delhi gang-rape and called for evolving a political consensus for tougher laws to check crime against women. The victim died of her injuries Dec 29 in a Singapore hospital. The union government should also seek opinion of legal luminaries, chief justices of all state high courts and judges of the Supreme Court on the issue, Mayawati said. "In such horrifying times, a tough response and stern action is required," she said. She said political parties should refrain from distributing tickets to people with criminal antecedents. She expressed concern over rising crime against women in Uttar Pradesh. On the issue of demands of resignation of Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav due to apex court directive to Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to probe graft charges against him, she said the answer should come from the Samajwadi Party. On the growing chorus of Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi being a potential prime ministerial candidate, Mayawati said BSP would do everything possible to prevent it.

UTTAR PRADESH

BIHAR Lalu bats for death penalty provision in anti-rape

BALLIA (UP): RJD chief Lalu Prasad on Thursday met the family of Delhi gang-rape victim at their native village where he made a strong pitch for strict anti-rape laws with provision for capital punishment. "Like in Arab countries, strict laws need to be made with provision for capital punishment," Yadav told reporters. Prasad, however, did not agree with Union Minister Shashi Tharoor's suggestion that the proposed anti-rape law be named after the 23year-old paramedical student who died after the beastly attack on her on December 16. The RJD chief said that his party would strongly demand change in rape laws with a provision for death sentence in barbaric cases like the Delhi incident in the coming budget session of parliament. "We will strongly voice our demand for provision of hanging in cases of rape during the next session of Parliament," Prasad said. Prasad described the victim as a 'brave' girl and said she had left behind some serious questions before society on safety and security of women

of the beneficiaries. Accusing the Congress of yet again trying to "fool the voters," she said people should not be swayed by false promises of the

Congress. "This is an 'adh kacchi' (half-baked) scheme cooked up by the dhokebaaz (fraud) Congress and I warn the people of the country not to fall

Tillari stalemate ends after Pawar's intervention

PANAJI: The water from Tillari Irrigation Project has finally reached Goa, after a dry spell of almost three weeks which affected large tracts of farmlands in the state. The stalemate over releasing water ended after Union Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar intervened in the matter and convinced the agitators blocking the release of water from a canal in Maharashtra's Sindhudurg district to call off their protest. NCP MLA Dipak Kesarkar from Sawantwadi had requested Pawar to intervene in the matter. The sit-in protest was held over alleged non-fulfilment of promises on rehabilitation made by the Goa government to the affected people during construction of the irrigation project, which runs through both the states. According to agitators, the Manohar Parrikar government has assured them of giving government jobs as part of the rehabilitation package. As soon as the protesters withdrew their agitation, water was immediately released in the canal which reached Goa last evening. Ghanashyam Raut, Sarpanch from Sal village, where maximum farmers are dependent on this irrigation project, said they heaved a sigh of relief after water reached the canal. "There were worries that entire crop of sugarcane and banana would be destroyed due to scarcity of water. The things will be normal now", he said. Although agitators have temporarily withdrawn the protest, the issue will be raised again in January 18 meeting of Tillari Irrigation Development Board in which officials from Goa and Maharashtra would participate. Tillari dam is constructed on Tillari River as the result of a joint project by the Maharashtra and Goa governments.

GOA

BJP leaders competing with each other to unseat Shettar: Yeddyurappa

BANGALORE /HAVERI: KJP President BS Yeddyurappa claimed some BJP leaders are competing with each other to unseat Chief Minister Jagadish Shettar from power. "There are some BJP leaders competing with each other to dethrone Shettar," the former chief minister, who broke away from the BJP to head the Karnataka Janata Paksha, said. Reacting to former Chief Minister DV Sadananda Gowda's remarks that the resignation of BJP MLAs close to Yeddyurappa would not affect the government, KJP chief said, "Let him say what he wants to say, but I will do what I have to do." Yeddyurappa said a final decision on whether to bring down the Shettar government would be taken at an executive committee meeting of the KJP in Bangalore on January 4. He also said the state would witness "important political changes" after Sankranti festival (January 14). Yeddyurappa reiterated that the BJP government had lost the right to present the next year's budget as it was "losing numbers" with each passing day. In another development, BJP MLA Nehru Olekar said in Haveri that the Shettar government would collapse after January 15. Olekar, also the Chairman of the SC/ST Development Corporation and a staunch loyalist of Yeddyurappa, claimed that at least 25 to 30 MLAs were ready to quit enmasse and a decision on it would be taken at the KJP Executive on January 4.

KARNATAKA

New Year begins on unhappy note for Punjab govt

CHANDIGARH: The New Year has not begun on a happy note for Punjab, which is facing an ever-deepening financial crisis. The first three months of 2013 are likely to be particularly difficult for the state. The state government has to raise Rs 7200 crore to meet various expenses during this period. Adding to Punjab's woes is a cut imposed by the Centre on the state's borrowing limit. It has now been reduced from 3.5 per cent of the GDP to 3 per cent. Under these circumstances, the state government may have to suspend its various welfare schemes. Sources in the finance department state that the government, on its own, has to raise about Rs 1500 crore. Last year, the government stopped payment of salaries to the employees of Panchayati Raj institutions and Rs 350 crore thus saved, were utilized to meet its day-to-day expenses. The government has also told Powercom to adjust in its files a payment of Rs 1000 crore. The subsidy due to be paid to Powercom will be available only in the next financial year beginning April 1, 2013. The state government requires about Rs 1200 crore as subsidy, Rs 250 crore for old age pensions, Rs 70 crore for Shagun scheme, Rs 50 crore for Atta-dal scheme, Rs 500 crore for payment of four months dearness allowance to its employees, Rs 450 crore for higher education as per the directions of Punjab and Haryana High Court and Rs 326 crore as education cess. The figure does not include payment of Rs 1800 crore as salary and pension to its employees.

PUNJAB

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hen the tramp of horses was heard, the magician took out an enchanted handkerchief, which rendered invisible any one who touched it. Giving one end to Rabot, and holding the other himself, they walked unseen amongst the horsemen, but not a trace of Lino was to be found. And this was natural enough, because the king, tired out with the excitement and fatigue of the last few days, had bidden the heavy coaches, laden with presents for the princess, to go forwards, while he rested under the palms with a few of his friends. Here Ismenor beheld them, all sound asleep; and casting a spell which prevented their waking till he wished them to do so, he stripped the king of all his clothes and dressed him in those of Rabot, whom he touched with his ring, saying: 'Take the shape of Lino until you have wedded the daughter of the Swan fairy.' And so great was the magician's power that Rabot positively believed himself to be really the king! When the groom had mounted Lino's horse, and had ridden out of sight, Ismenor aroused the king, who stared with astonishment at the dirty garments in which he was dressed; but before he had time to look about him, the magician caught him up in a cloud, and carried him off to his daughter. Meantime Rabot had come up with the others, who never guessed for a moment that he was not their own master. 'I am hungry,' said he, 'give me something to eat at once.' 'May it please your majesty,' answered the steward, 'the tents are not even set up, and it will be at least an hour before your supper is served! We thought--' 'Who taught you to think?' interrupted the false king rudely. 'You are nothing but a fool! Get me some horse's flesh directlyit is the best meat in the world!' The steward could hardly believe his ears. King Lino, the most polite man under the sun, to speak to his faithful servant in such a manner! And to want horse's flesh too! Why he was so delicate in his appetite that he lived mostly on fruit and cakes. Well, well, there was no knowing what people would come to;

and, anyhow, he must obey at once, if he wished to keep his head on his shoulders. Perhaps, after all, it was love which had driven him mad, and, if so, by-and-by he might come right again. Whatever excuses his old servants might invent for their master, by the time the procession reached the Swan's fairy capital there were no more horses left, and they were forced to walk up to the palace on foot. Hiding their surprise as best they could, they begged the king to follow them, dismounting from their own horses, as he, they supposed, preferred to walk. They soon perceived the Swan fairy and her daughter awaiting them on a low balcony, under which the king stopped. 'Madam,' he said, 'you may be surprised that I have come to ask your daughter's hand in so unceremonious a fashion; but the journey is long, and I was hungry and ate my horse, which is the best meat in the world; and I forced my courtiers to eat theirs also. But for all that I am a great king, and wish to be your sonin-law. And now that is settled, where is Hermosa?' 'Sire,' answered the queen, not a little displeased as well as amazed at the king's manner, which was so different from anything she had been led to expect. 'You possess my daughter's portrait, and it can have made but little impression on you if you don't recognise her at once.' 'I don't remember any portrait,' replied Rabot; 'but perhaps it may be in my pocket after all.' And he searched everywhere, while the ladies-in-waiting looked on with astonishment, but of course found nothing.

FAMOUS LEADERS: CHEMPAKARAMAN PILLAI

Born On: September 15, 1891 Born In: Thiruvananthapuram, Travancore Died On: May 26, 1934 Career: Patriot, Indian Revolutionary Nationality: Indian Chempakaraman Pillai was one of the greatest Indian revolutionaries who brought glory to our motherland with his undying efforts and spirits, but the nation had somehow forgotten to honor the great hero. He was one of the unsung heroes and patriots who went abroad and organized his own army to fight for India's freedom from the British Raj with support from the Germans, another enemy of the English. Though brought up on a foreign land, Chempakaraman did not let his passion and enthusiasm lower even by a percentage and dedicated his entire life fighting for the freedom of Bharat Mata. He was one of the few people who wished to join hands with the common enemy to drive away the British from his homeland and organize an armed attacked from outside. Such was his influence and power that even Germans were urged to trust and believe him. Early Life C Pillai was born in an average middle-class family to Chinnaswami Pillai and Nagammal in Thiruvananthapuram in the state of Travancore in southernmost India. His family was of Tamil origin and had settled in Thiruvananthapuram, since his father was a police head constable in Travancore State Government Service. He received his primary and high school education at Model School, Thycaud in Thiruvananthapuram. During his school days, Chempakaraman was fortunate to meet a British biologist, Sir Walter Strickland, who made visits to the city for botanical specimens. On one of his visit, he offered Chempakaraman and his cousin, Padmanabha Pillai, to come along with him. However, Padmanabha left midway at Colombo and ran back to Thiruvananthapuram. Chempakaraman continued the journey and landed in Europe. This proved to be a turning point in his life. Strickland got him admitted in a school in Austria from where Chempakaraman completed his high schooling. Life in Europe On the completion of his schooling, Chempakaraman joined a Technical Institute to pursue a diploma in engineering. Soon, the First World War broke out and Chempakaraman got an opportunity to fulfill his longcherished plans. With the help of German Embassy, he formed the International Pro-India Committee with Zurich as the headquarters in September 1914. He declared himself as the President of the committee. During the same time, he saw the urge of Indian revolutionaries also persuaded to join the movement, thereby bringing forward the Ghadar Party for the same purpose. This resulted in the Indian Independence Committee getting involved with Hindu-German Conspiracy and Ghadar Party in America. Chempakaraman's intelligence, brilliant organizational abilities, and undaunted courage helped him get accolades and appreciation from the German Kaiser. Such was his confidence amongst the Germans that he was permitted to lead the operations of German Navy in Indian Ocean. During this period, he directed the German vessel "Emden" and destroyed English war-vessels. Left with no option, the British government was forced to announce a reward of one lakh pounds to anyone who successfully captured Chempakaraman and handed him to them. However, the cunning lion of India never fell into the hands of British hunters. Chempakaraman proved to be the predecessor of Rash Behari Bose and Subhas Chandra Bose in organizing an Indian Army outside India for striking the enemies at home. He established the Indian National Volunteer Corps during World War I and offered military uniform and discipline to the volunteers. In 1919, he met Subhas Chandra Bose in Vienna and explained his plan of raising revolt amongst Indian soldiers and attacking the British to set the motherland free. Such was the impact of Chempakaraman's words on Bose that he fulfilled his dream during World War II on forming the Indian National Army. Tenure in Provisional Government Chempakaraman Pillai was one of the first freedom strugglers who gave India and Indians, living in India and abroad, fighting for the country's independence the slogan "Jai Hind". Apart from standing and struggling for the freedom movement from Europe, he became the Foreign Minister of the Provisional Government of India set up in Afghanistan in Dec 1915. Raja Mahendra Pratap Singh from Kabul became the President and Maulana Barkatulla the Prime Minister. But the defeat of the Germans in the war left the hopes of the revolutionaries ruined. Victim of Nazi Wrath Unknown by the fact, the Germans were helping the Indian revolutionaries in Germany with selfish motives. Even though the Indian patriots had made it very clear to the Germans that they would be equal partners is revolting and fighting against their common enemy, the British, the Germans held a dominating position as they had been providing funds, arms, and ammunition to the revolutionaries, both abroad and at home. As such, the Germans intended to exploit the Indians for their work. Thus, when Germans started losing the battle, they lost interest in the revolutionaries. To add on, they even started looking at them with suspicion, thereby weakening the relationship between Indian revolutionaries and Germans. Personal Life Chempakaraman Pillai met Lakshmibai from Manipur, India in Berlin and married her in 1931. Death When Adolf Hitler started assuming Indians incapable of ruling themselves and looking upon others, Chempakaraman stood against Hitler, thereby forcing him to give a written apology. As such, he became a victim to the anger of the Nazis who were believed to have killed Chempakaraman, on Hitler's orders, through food poisoning on May 26, 1934. He was just 42 years old. While he wanted his ashes to be carried back to his homeland, his wife took 33 years to fulfill his last wish, all due the severe hardships and sufferings she went through that period as Nazis had made her life miserable and torturous. However, she did not lose hope and preserved his ashes, his diary, and secret documents, and traveled to Mumbai through Berlin, Italy, and Spain. Chempakaraman's ashes were brought to Cochin on Sept 16, 1966 in the Indian Navy's warship, I.N.S. Delhi under the flag of free India hurling.

FATHER WILLIAM
Lewis Carroll "You are old, Father William," the young man said,

abroad trying to take advantage of the new situations to achieve freedom. Further, a group of Indian expatriates formed the Indian International Committee in Berlin with Virendranath Chattopadhyaya, eldest brother of Sarojini Naidu, as the President. The committee included Bhupendranath Dutta, Punnackal A. Raman Pillai, Taraknath Das, Barkatullah, Chandrakant Chakravarty, M. Prabhakar, Birendra Sarkar, and Herambalal Gupta. Chempakaraman went to Berlin in Oct 1914 and joined the committee. He merged the International ProIndia Committee with Indian International Committee and named it Berlin Committee. The Committee opened branches in various parts of Europe and America, including Amsterdam, Stockholm, and Washington. Revolutionary Activities After Berlin Committee was established in Berlin, Lala Har Dayal was

FUN TIME
1. Two young boys were spending the night at their grandparents the week before Christmas. At bedtime, the two boys knelt beside their beds to say their prayers when the youngest one began praying at the top of his lungs. "I pray for a new bicycle!" "I pray for a new Nintendo!" "I pray for a new VCR!" His older brother leaned over and nudged the younger brother and said, "Why are you shouting your prayers? God isn't deaf." To which the little brother replied, "No, but Grandma is!" 2. During an English lesson, the teacher notices that a boy was not paying attention to him. Teacher:Pappu, join these two sentences together. I was cycling to school. I saw a dead body. Pappu: (thinking for a while) I saw a dead body cycling to school. Doctor: "I see, Is this your brother with you?" asked to the older boy. The other boy replied "No, I own the marble." 3. Shaadi mein ek pathan bahut der tak khana kha raha tha. Kisi ne poocha kab tak khaoge? Pathan: Mein toh khud kha-kha ke dukhi hoon, Per kya karon card mein likha thaDinner 7 PM to 10 PM. 4. Bhola: Itne kum marks? Do thappad marne chahiye. Pappu: Haan papa, chalo maine oos master ka ghar bhi dekh rakha hai.

IMAGE TO COLOUR

FAST FACTS
* A normal galaxy consists of 100,000,000,000 and 1,000,000,000,000 stars approximately. * Motor neurons are the longest cells of Human body. A 4.5 feet long motor neuron can run all the way from the toe to the lower spinal cord. * Common Housefly transmits more diseases as compared to any other animals. * The loudest sound that is produced by a living animal is 188 decibels. It is produced by blue whale. * It is observed that the seeds of an Indian Lotus tree would remain viable approximately for 300 to 400 years. * Inhabitants of North Dakota have never experienced an earthquake in their area. * To form water you have to burn hydrogen in air. * The deepest lake of the world is Lake Baikal. * Each year North Atlantic gets 1 inch wider.

Craft for kids- Sponge Painted Trinket Box

2) Sand paper 3) Blue and gold acrylic paints 4) Small piece of sea sponge, rag, or dry brushsmall amount of masking tape 5) Felt (any color, to use as a lining - I used red) Instructions: Rub off any imperfections on the box with the sand-paper. Paint the box blue inside and out and then let it dry thoroughly. To sponge on the gold highlighting, you can use a variety of materials. A small piece of damp sea sponge works well, but you can also use a small piece of damp rag or even a dry paint brush. Apply the gold all over the box, but apply it sparingly to get that antique effect. Use a "pouncing" technique, dabbing the sponge, rag or brush lightly straight down on the box surface, lifting it off quickly and repeating in another area. If you don't like the effect in a certain spot, use a clean damp rag to wipe it off and try again. Let the paint dry. Glue the felt to inside of the box. You can do just the bottom or do the sides too. And your expensive-looking trinket box is ready.

You need: 1) Small wooden box (this one had a bow form on the lid, but a plain box is fine)

"And your hair has become very white; And yet you incessantly stand on your headDo you think, at your age, it is right?" "In my youth," Father William replied to his son, "I feared it might injure the brain; But, now that I'm perfectly sure I have none, Why, I do it again and again." "You are old," said the youth, " as I mentioned before, And have grown most uncommonly fat; Yet you turned a back somersault in at the doorPray, what is the reason of that?" "In my youth," said the sage, as he shook his grey locks, "I kept all my limbs very supple By the use of this ointment-one shilling the boxAllow me to sell you a couple?" "You are old," said the youth, " and your jaws are too weak For anything tougher than suet; Yet you finished the goose, with the bones and the backPray, how did you manage to do it?" "In my youth," said his father, "I took to the law, And argued each case with my wife; And the muscular strength, which it gave to my jaw, Has lasted the rest of my life." "You are old," said the youth, "one would hardly suppose That your eye was steady as ever; Yet, you balanced an eel on the end of your noseWhat made you so awfully clever?" "I have answered three questions, and that is enough," Said his father. "Don't give yourself airs! Do you think I can listen all day to such stuff? Be off, or I'll kick you downstairs!"

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STUDENT AGE FRIDAY, JANUARY 4, 2013

NATIONAL

Winter chill continues in North India, over 100 die of cold in UP

NEW DELHI: A large swathe of North India continues to face intense cold and harsh weather conditions with minimum temperature dipping to 4.6 in the national capital and over 100 deaths being reported from Uttar Pradesh on Thursday. The spell of bone-chilling cold continues in Delhi, a day after the national capital witnessed its coldest day in 44 years. The minimum temperature settled three notches below average at 4.4 degrees Celsius Thursday, a day after the national capital recorded the coldest day in 44 years. For three-four days, the mercury continues to hover around 4 degrees Celsius - the season's lowest minimum recorded. The Metrological department has predicted that this spell of bone-chilling cold would continue for most part of the week, and there are good chances that fog may reappear. The extremely harsh weather conditions coupled with icy winds and depleted sunshine have forced people to cover themselves with caps, mufflers, gloves and long coats while moving out. The maximum temperature today is expected to hover around the 13 degrees Celsius mark. Yesterday, the maximum temperature dropped to 9.8 degrees Celsius on Wednesday. This was 11 degrees below normal. The minimum temperature was 4.8 degrees. At Palam, on the fringes of Delhi, the maximum temperature was 9.7 degrees. And adding to the winter woes are the thick fog covers in the mornings, the depleted sunshine and icy winds. The caps, mufflers, gloves and long coats are out. Visibility on the main runways at the Indira Gandhi International Airport was around 50 metres on Wednesday. More than 30 flights were delayed. Seven flights were cancelled. A flight from Hong Kong was diverted reached to 107. In Jaipur, the authorities directed government and private schools not to hold classes up to Class 8th till Jan 12. The timing for students of classes IX to XII had also been rescheduled, District Collector T Ravikant said. The classes for these students will now begin from 10 am, he said. Meanwhile, Himachal continued to reel under sub-zero temperatures, with Keylong remaining the coldest place with a minimum of minus 8.9 degrees, followed by Kalpa with minus 3.5 degrees. While the key tourist resort of Manali shivered at minus 3 degrees, capital Shimla recorded a low of 2.1 degrees. Cold wave swept entire Rajasthan too, where Churu was the coldest place with a minimum temperature of 1.6 degrees, followed by Pilani with 2.6 degrees. Bikaner, Sriganganagar, Jaipur, Dabok and Jaisalmer recorded night temperatures of 4, 4.5, 5.2, 6.4 and 6.5 degrees respectively while other stations recorded minimum of 7 and 8 degree Celsius. Punjab and Haryana also remained in the grip of severe cold, with mercury dropping by up to three notches below normal in various parts. Narnaul in Haryana remained the coldest place in the region with a minimum of 2.4 degrees, down by three notches below normal. Bhiwani and Hisar had a low of 3.6 and 4 degrees Celsius respectively, while Ambala and Karnal shivered at 5.5 and 5 degrees, down by two notches below normal. Temperature in Union Territory of Chandigarh recorded a low of 4.2 degrees, dipping by a degree below normal. According to Met department forecast, cold wave will continue to persist in the region for the next 2 to 3 days with the temperatures remaining below normal in many places.

Provocative speech: Court to decide on FIR against Owaisi

HYDERABAD: A court here will deliver its order on Thursday on whether to direct the police to file an FIR against Majlis-eI t t e h a d u l Muslimeen (MIM) leader Akbaruddin Owaisi over the provocative speech made by him in Andhra Pradesh on December 24. Akbaruddin, brother of MIM chief and Lok Sabha MP Asaduddin Owaisi, in his almost two-hour long speech on Dec 24 at Nirmal town at Andhra Pradesh, allegedly tried to instigate the crowd by calling for a "test of strength" against a community. A complaint was lodged in a Hyderabad court against Akbaruddin Owaisi, by advocate Kashimshetty Karuna Sagar. The complainant asked the court to file a case against

to Mumbai. Situation was better today as flight operations remained largely normal at the Delhi airport. The visibility at the main runway remained between 150 and 225 metres through the night and in the morning it increased to 1,200 metres, airport sources said, adding so there was virtually no affect on flight movement. The Meteorological Department has predicted very dense fog over the next few days, not just in Delhi but many parts of North India.

The entire region is shivering due to intense cold wave as plummeting mercury claimed 15 more lives in Uttar Pradesh, with thick fog cover throwing normal life out of gear in many places. Officials said four people died in Muzaffarnagar which remained the coldest place with 0.6 degrees Celsius, followed by three in Mathura, two each in Agra, Bulandshahr, Etah and one each in Barabanki and Mirzapur. With this, the death toll in the state this winter has

Owaisi under Section 295A (for deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage religious feelings or any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs), Section 153A (promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion) and other relevant sections of the IPC. The court yesterday reserved its orders till today on the petition filed by the city-based lawyer. The lawyer has also claimed that he has received threats ever since he filed the complaint. The BJP has sought criminal action against Owaisi.

EGoM on telecom likely to discuss spectrum auction details

NEW DELHI: The Empowered Group of Ministers on telecom is scheduled to meet on Thursday to discuss modalities about the spectrum sale due this fiscal. The EGoM, headed by Finance P Chidambaram, will discuss the auction plan prepared by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) after Cabinet approved the sale of unsold GSM spectrum in 1800 Mhz band and in the premium 900 Mhz spectrum band. The government is learnt to be preparing fresh plans to auction radiowaves that can fetch around Rs 39,895 crore. As per the proposal, the government may get around Rs 25,316 crore from the auction in the premium 900 Mhz band, and Rs 14,579 crore from auction of unsold spectrum in the 1800 Mhz band. For the CDMA (800 Mhz) band, DoT may propose either to recommend the matter to Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) or auction the radiowaves in succession to GSM spectrum. DoT may sell more spectrum in Delhi, Mumbai, Karnataka and Rajasthan in the 1800 Mhz band, compared to the quantum it had earlier put up for auction that ended on November 14. It also recommended removing cross holding norms from licence conditions and linking them with spectrum holding. The regulator has also recommended cancelling permit of service provider if that commits major iolation for the fourth time. As per the TRAI Act, companies threatening security of nation, causing heavy revenue losses to government and wilful and illegal conduct outside the framework of terms and conditions of the permit should be considered as major violation. The government in the previous auction had put up only 10 Mhz for auction, divided in 8 blocks of 1.25 Mhz each, for Rs 693.06 crore in Delhi and Rs 678.45 crore in Mumbai which attracted no bidders. In Rajasthan and Karnataka, it will auction same quantity of 11 blocks spectrum at reserve price of Rs 46.96 crore and Rs 231.08 crore, respectively.

Court order on defamation complaint against Jindal likely today

NEW DELHI: A Delhi court is likely to pronounce on Thursday its order on issue of taking cognisance of Zee News Editor Sudhir Chaudhary's criminal defamation complaint against Congress MP Naveen Jindal and 16 officials of his firm Jindal Steel and Power Ltd (JSPL). On December 21, 2012, Metropolitan Magistrate Jay Thareja had reserved for January 3 his order on taking cognisance of Chaudhary's complaint which alleged that Jindal and JSPL officials had made "deliberately false" statements against him with the intention to tarnish his image. In his complaint, Chaudhary had said defamatory statements were made in an FIR lodged against him in the alleged Rs 100 crore extortion bid case at a press conference held in New Delhi. Chaudhary and Zee Business Editor Samir Ahluwalia were arrested on November 27, 2012 on a complaint by Jindal's firm that they had demanded Rs 100 crore as an advertising deal for not airing "negative" news reports against the firm in connection with the coal block allocation scandal. Both Chaudhary and Ahluwalia were granted bail on December 17, 2012 by the court. They have been booked under section 384 (extortion), 420 (cheating), 120 B (crimiall others who are named in the defamation complaint, were well aware that false statements have been made in it. Chaudhary in his complaint had said that on October 25, 2012, when Jindal along with others held a press conference and made "false statements" that Broadcast Editors Association (BEA) had removed him as a treasurer "after giving him opportunity and after considering his statement, but Chaudhary never appeared before BEA and BEA passed the order without hearing him". He further said he has already challenged his removal from BEA in the Delhi High Court which has issued notice to the association. "The statements made by the accused persons are totally malicious, false, incorrect and defamatory allegations/remarks against the complainant," the complaint said. Chaudhary in his complaint had also alleged that JSPL has circulated among its shareholders a letter containing very "serious and utterly false allegations" against him because of which he is facing humiliation, ill treatment and his goodwill and reputation has been lowered down in his social circle.

Delhi gang-rape: Protesters call for 'Bharat Bandh'

NEW DELHI: In order to show solidarity and demand speedy justice for the Delhi gang-rape victim, protesters have called for a nationwide 'bandh' on Thursday. The protesters, who are said to be not affiliated with any political party, said that no flags and banners of any political outfit will be allowed during the protests. However, political leaders will be welcomed if they want to support the initiative on a personal note. For more than two weeks not only the national capital, but the whole country has witnessed huge protests demanding stricter anti-rape laws and speedy justice for the young girl. The 23-year-old girl was gang-raped and brutally tortured by a group of six people in a moving bus in the national capital on December 16. The victim was initially admitted to Safdarjung Hospital in Delhi and later shifted to Mount Elizaberth Hospital in Singapore hospital where she died on December 29. The Delhi Police are likely to file the chargesheet in the gang-rape-cum-murder case in court here today and will seek death penalty for the accused during the trial.

nal conspiracy) and 511 (punishment for attempting to commit offences punishable with imprisonment for life or other imprisonment) of the IPC. During the hearing on December 21, Chaudhary's lawyer Vijay Aggarwal had said the complaint in the alleged extortion case was filed by Rajeev Bhadauria, Director (HR) of JSPL, and

Myanmar assures India not to be used by anti-India groups

NEW DELHI: Myanmar has assured India that it will not allow its territory to be used by anti-India elements and promised close cooperation in checking arms smuggling and drug trafficking along the international border. This was conveyed by Myanmar Deputy Minister for Home Affairs Brigadier General Kyaw Zan Myint to Secretary, Border Management in the Home Ministry, A K Mangotra during a bilateral meeting held here. Recalling the shared culture and traditionally close relationship between India and Myanmar, Mangotra expressed India's commitment to strengthen cooperation between the two countries to eliminate the nexus among drug trade, arms smuggling and extremism and terrorism. He also sought Myanmar's cooperation for coordinated patrolling along the Indo-Myanmar border and dismantling of Indian insurgent groups camps in Myanmar for peace and economic prosperity in the region. "Brig. Gen. Myint reiterated the assurance that Myanmar would never allow insurgents and negative elements to use its own territory for activities inimical to its neighbour India," a Home Ministry official said. Both sides discussed and agreed to cooperate closely on issues like insurgent groups along the border, arms smuggling and drug trafficking, border management, presence of Myanmarese fishermen in Andaman and Nicobar jails, illegal smuggling of wild life parts and inspection and verification of pillars. Both sides expressed satisfaction over opening of a third Border Liaison Office (BLO) between Changlang (Arunachal Pradesh) and Pangsau (Myanmar). The meeting, held here recently, emphasised on nurturing BLOs to promote cooperation between law enforcement agencies of both the countries for peace and tranquillity along the border. It was decided to open a fourth BLO in Nagaland sector between Ukhrul (Manipur) and Somra (Myanmar).

Four Indians charged with murder of compatriot

SINGAPORE: Four Indian nationals were charged on Thursday by a Singapore court with the murder of a compatriot on New Year Day. Ramasami Rabinhood (25), Bose Muruganandham (32), Raja Arul (22) and Palanisamy Vijayakumar (26) were part of a group accused of murdering 24-year-old Boobalan Palanikumar. They were drinking in the park, according to local media reports. The alleged offence took place near Jurong Lake Park on the western industrial region of Singapore on New Year's Day. Palanikumar was one of the few men found injured at the scene. He died in a local hospital the next day. Police said it received a call at 1 am on Tuesday about a fight in the park. All four were in remand at Central Police Division for investigations. They will appear in court again on January 10, the reports said.

SC to hear PIL seeking speedy trials in rape cases

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court will on Thursday hear a PIL seeking trials in rape cases and suspension of all MPs and MLAs who face prosecution for crimes against women. The apex court on Wednesday agreed to hear the PIL filed by a former woman IAS officer seeking directions to the government to ensure safety of women and setting up of more fast-track courts for speedy trials in rape cases. The apex court bench will be headed by Chief Justice of India Altamas Kabir. In her PIL, retired IAS officer Promilla Shanker pleaded that cases of rape and crime against women and children be investigated by lady police officials and trial be conducted by lady judges. Meanwhile, another bench comprising Justices P Sathasivam and Ranjan Gogoi yesterday issued notices to the Centre and all the states and sought their response on another PIL by advocate Mukesh Kumar seeking safety measures for women. Kumar, in his PIL, demanded creation of women police stations in every town to investigate complaints of rape and sexual assault against women. It also sought steps for implementation of UN convention on elimination of all forms of discrimination against women. The court asked the Centre and the states to file their responses in four weeks. The PILs come in the backdrop of the nation-wide outrage over December 16 brutal gang-rape and assault of a 23-year-old woman in Delhi, who died in a Singapore hospital on Dec 29.

KNPP unit-1 to be commissioned in two weeks: AEC

KOLKATA: The muchdelayed Kudankulam project is set to be commissioned within the next two weeks as nuclear scientists have entered the final lap of a series of tests on its safety and efficacy. "Within this month 100 per cent. It will take about two weeks," Ratan Kumar Sinha, Chairman of the Atomic Energy Commission said here on the sidelines of the 100th Indian Science Congress when asked about the commissioning of the first 1,000 MW unit of the project. Sinha said all possible care was being taken to see that all the processes are followed precisely. "They (engineers at Kudankulam) have done the hot pressurisation based on certain observations. They want to be very sure that all the processes are perfect," Sinha said. India is building two 1,000 MW nuclear power plants at Kudankulam with Russian collaboration. Talks are on with Russia for building more reactors at the site which can accommodate six units. In December, the Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) had granted permission for the second heat up, under which all systems of the entire nuclear power plant will be put to test to demonstrate its operability and safety. Under the second heat up, various systems of the nuclear reactor are being put through performance tests. Following these tests, AERB would evaluate the reports of the tests and then give the go-ahead to first approach to criticality, AERB Chairman SS Bajaj had said. After the reactor goes critical, power generation would be stepped up gradually and after it reaches a certain level, the plant would be connected to the grid. Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL) is developing two 1,000 MW nuclear power units at Kudankulam in Tamil Nadu. AERB had granted permission to load fuel in the first unit of the nuclear power project on August 10 after NPCIL complied with all the conditions laid by it. A specially-designed robotic arm then began loading 163 bundles of enriched uranium fuel on September 18 and the process was completed on October 2. Commissioning of the first unit of the Indo-Russian project was originally scheduled for December 2011 but had to be put off due to protests.

UP ex-cabinet secretary accused of being involved in a scam

LUCKNOW: A CGM court has sought a report from the police on filing a case against former Uttar Pradesh Cabinet Secretary Shashank Shekhar. Shashank Shekhar has been accused of being involved in a corruption case involving Rs 3000 crore in the Civil Aviation Department. The petition has been filed by DK Dikshit who has demanded that an FIR should be filed an alleged scam worth Rs 3,000 crore against Shashank Shekhar. Shashank Shekhar role was very important in the scam, said Dikshit. The court has sought a report from the police by Jan 11. Shashank Shekhar was the cabinet secretary in the Mayawati government. Dikshit said that a conspiracy was being hatched to cover up the case. He added that Civil Aviation Department had been kept out the RTI's purview to suppress the case.

Wrong photo of India's Braveheart circulated on FB

NEW DELHI/ THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The photograph that was circulated on FB and other social networking sites as that of the 23-year-old Delhi gangrape victim has been found to be that of a Kerala girl. As per reports, the father of the girl has filed a complaint with the cyber cell of Kerala Police after a family friend discovered that the girl's photo was being shared on FB. On approaching the cops, the family found that the girl was being identified as the Delhi braveheart who was brutally gang-raped and assaulted on Dec 16 and died on Dec 30 at a Singapore hospital despite all efforts to save her life. As per reports, the photo was reportedly posted from a FB account in Delhi. Delhi Police will file its chargesheet in connection with the gang-rape in the metropolitan magistrate's court in Saket Thursday. The case will then be moved to the fast-track court to hear it on a day-to-day trial basis. Delhi Police, which had earlier invoked murder charges against the six men allegedly involved in the gang-rape, plans to submit a 1000-page chargesheet in connection with this case. The sheer brutality of the crime has shaken the entire country with massive protests held in several cities demanding the most stringent punishment for the accused and better security for the women.

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INTERNATIONAL & ECONOMY

US wants govt transition in Venezuela as per Constitution
WASHINGTON: The US has said that it favoured any change in Venezuela's leadership as per that country's Constitution if Hugo Chavez cannot carry out his duties as President. "We want to see any transition take place in a manner that is consistent with the Venezuelan Constitution, that any election be fully transparent, democratic, free and fair," State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said yesterday. Her comments came just days after the Speaker of the Venezuelan National Assembly hinted the adjournment of Chavez's inauguration date for his fourth term due to his illness. Asked if Chavez being out of the picture would make it easier to improve long-strained ties between Venezuela and the US, Nuland said, "Obviously we will judge our ability to improve our relationship with Venezuela based on steps they are able to take." Nuland said the US is following the reports of his health, but they are based on Venezuelan government information.

Lankan Apex Court rules impeachment committee unconstitutional

COLOMBO: In escalating tussle between the Parliament and Judiciary in Sri Lanka, the country's apex court in a ruling on Thursday held as unconstitutional the impeachment of the nation's first woman chief justice. The Supreme Court here ruled that a parliamentary select committee (PSC), which probed the impeachment charges against Chief Justice Shirani Bandaranayake, has "no legal power or authority". "The Supreme Court determined that the PSC had no legal power or authority to make a finding of guilt or decision affecting rights of a judge since that is a power that has to be conferred by law and not standing orders of parliament", a lawyer told reporters. The judgement was delivered in response to a plaint filed by Bandaranayake in the Appeal Court seeking a quash order on the PSC findings, which ruled her guilty. The parliamentary committee on December 8 ruled that Bandaranayake was guilty of three of the 14 charges in the impeachment proceedings against her moved by the ruling UPFA coalition legislators. The three charges were financial impropriety based on non declaration of assets and conflict of interest in a case involving a failed investment company. The 54-year-old chief justice denied all the charges against her. On December 6, she stormed out of the impeachment hearing in parliament, saying she will not be given a fair trial. The opposition had also boycotted the PSC, claiming the whole process a political witch hunt. The impeachment which brewed over several months was the result of a tussle between the judiciary and the government. The government claimed the Supreme Court was acting against it while the judiciary claimed its independence was being attacked by government. The ruling, however, is certain to be ignored by the Parliament, analysts noted as it had at all times held that its powers were supreme and no court has jurisdiction over parliamentary action

Barack Obama clears $633 bn defence spending

WASHINGTON: US President Barack Obama has signed into law a whopping USD 633 billion defence bill that authorises spending on the war in Afghanistan and enhanced security for American missions worldwide. Obama in a signing statement said that he was doing so to ensure that the US will continue to have the "strongest military in the world". The President, who is holidaying in Hawaii, said he was clearing the bill even as he has strong reservations on several provisions of National Defence Authorisation Act 2013. The White House had earlier threatened to veto the bill. The bill provides Department of Defence with a spending threshold of USD 633 billion for 2013, including USD 527.4 billion for the Pentagon budget and a USD 88.5 billion for overseas contingency operations including funding the war in Afghanistan. The bill also authorises USD 9.8 billion for missile defence. In his statement Obama said, "Our Constitution does not afford the President the opportunity to approve or reject statutory sections one by one. I am empowered either to sign the bill, or reject it, as a whole." "In this case, though I continue to oppose certain sections of the Act, the need to renew critical defence authorities and funding was too great to ignore," Obama explained. In a time when all public

5 including Pak militant Mullah Nazir killed in US drone strike

ISLAMABAD: Top Pakistani militant leader Mullah Nazir and five others have been killed in a US drone strike in Pakistan, media reported on Thursday citing security officials. Nazir and the others were killed when two missiles struck in the tribal district of South Waziristan, the officials added. Nazir, who was wounded in a suicide bomb attack last November, had been accused of sending fighters to support the Afghan Taliban and fight foreign and pro-government troops. According to reports, Mullah Nazir's deputy, Ratta Khan, was also killed in the attack. It was not clear if early Thursday's drone strike had targeted a house

Hillary Clinton discharged from New York hospital, doctors expect full recovery
WASHINGTON: US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has been officially discharged from a New York hospital after being treated for a blood clot, the State Department said on Wednesday, a news agency reported. "Secretary Clinton was discharged from the hospital this evening. Her medical team advised her that she is making good progress on all back to the office," he added. Clinton was hospitalised with a blood clot behind her right ear on Sunday. Her doctors said that the blood clot was situated in a vein between her brain and skull behind the right ear. They, however, noted she had not suffered any "stroke or neurological damage", and they predicted that she should make a "full recovery".

or a car in Angoor Adda, near the capital of Wana, close to the Afghan border, media said. Analysts say Mullah Nazir had formed an alliance with the government and opposed the Pakistani Taliban, with whom he was at odds since he advocated attacks on US forces in Afghanistan rather than Pakistani soldiers. Earlier reports, which had not named Nazir, had put the casuslties between four and five.

fronts, and they are confident she will make a full recovery," Clinton's

spokesperson Philippe Reines said in a statement."She's eager to get

South Korean court orders chemical castration of child rapist

SEOUL: A South Korean court on Thursday ordered chemical castration of a repeat child sex offender in a first such decision given in the country. According to the Seoul Southern District Court's verdict, the 31-year-old man surnamed Pyo will be sentenced to 15 years in jail and given medication which inhibits sexual urges, media reported. Pyo, who the court said, is "incapable of self-control", has been convicted with raping five teenagers between November 2011 and May 2012. He had threatened to circulate sex videos online. "The medication will help reduce the defendant's excessive sexual fantasies and desires," the court said in a ruling. The criminal record of Pyo will remain public for the next 10 years.

servants recognise the need to eliminate wasteful or duplicative spending, various sections in the Act limit the Defence Department's ability to direct scarce resources towards the highest priorities for our national security, he said. For example, restrictions on the Defence Department's ability to retire unneeded ships and aircraft will divert scarce resources needed for readiness and result in future unfunded liabilities. Additionally, the Department has endeavoured to constrain manpower costs by recommending prudent cost sharing reforms in its health care programs. By failing to allow some of these cost savings measures, the Congress may force reductions in the overall size of the military forces, he said. Obama said several provisions in the bill also raise constitutional concerns. For instance one section places limits on the military's authority to transfer third country nationals currently held at the detention facility in Parwan, Afghanistan.

ECONOMY

Centre may penalise officials for delay in NREGA payout

NEW DELHI,JAN 3: The Centre has asked states to penalise officials for any delay in disbursement in the flagship rural employment programme and compensate workers who do not get their entitlements on time. Rural Development Minister Jairam Ramesh has asked states to adopt two initiatives taken by Andhra Pradesh "to help secure entitlements for MGNREGA wage seekers". These comprise a system to accurately register demand for work, and pin responsibility and compensate workers for delays in paying wages. The Andhra Pradesh government has made it clear that officials responsible for delay would be penalised. The guilty official has to bear the cost of compensating the affected workers. The online software being used by the Andhra Pradesh government makes it possible to pinpoint the exact stage where the delay takes place and the official responsible for it. Workers are eligible for compensation at the rate of 0.3% per day for delays beyond 14 days from the first day of work. To discourage holdups, the compensation due to the worker is deducted from the official's salary. The state has put out clear timelines for each function and official. Delays beyond these timelines would result in penalty for the concerned official. Delay in payment of wages is one of the biggest problems that plagues the rural employment scheme. The state has put in place a system to ensure greater accuracy in registering the demand for work, allocating work to NREGA workers and payment of unemployment allowance. The system, which Ramesh would like all states to adopt, sets a clearly defined timelines for online registration of all applications demanding work, allocating work orders and intimating supervisors at the work site. The Andhra Pradesh government has made it mandatory for officials in charge of implementing the employment programme in their area to prepare every week a comprehensive list of all applications demanding work by Saturday, and allot the work by Wednesday. All this has to be done online. The programme officer in the area is also charged with preparing and verifying the list of households, who have not received work despite registering, and ensure that they are paid an unemployment allowance list. This allowance is paid directly into the workers' bank or post office account.

RTE Act: HRD ministry objects to the cut in flagship education funding
NEW DELHI,JAN 3: The Human Resource Developmentministry has strongly objected to the cut in funding for a flagship elementary education programme and told Finance Minister P Chidambaram that implementation of the Right to Education Act was at stake. HRD Minister MM Pallam Raju has sought an increase in funding for the flagship scheme, the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan, saying reduced funding would jeopardise efforts to meet the March 2013 deadline for school infrastructure and hiring teachers, government sources said. While the finance ministry is keen to prune expenditure in various ministries to control the ballooning fiscal deficit, Raju has argued that the cut "may send the wrong signal about the resolve of the government to implementing the Right to Education Act." The Act had set the deadline of March 2013 for the government to meet the norms for school infrastructure and pupil-teacher ratio set out in the legislation. The Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan is the scheme through which the Right to Education Act is implemented. The HRD ministry is concerned about the reduction in funding especially as the Supreme Court directed the government in October to "provide school infrastructure requirements within six months." Stressing the urgency to meet the norms set out by the RTE Act, Raju urged, "I would strongly underline that the SSA is a performing programme." The finance ministry has reduced the allocation for the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan in the current fiscal by Rs 2,055 crore - from the budget estimate of Rs 25,555 crore to Rs 23,500 crore. The HRD ministry said that 81% of the budget amount has already been utilised. Actual utilisation in the field up to end October has been Rs 22,479 crore, a fact that Raju said "shows resolute implementation across the country. The SSA has no pending utilisation certificates." "I hope that you will give us your highest consideration in stepping up funding to the SSA to Rs 39,115 crore in the revised estimate for 2012-13 in order to meet the RTE Act time lines for school infrastructure and fulfil a national endeavour," Raju wrote to Chidambaram. The minister has made a case for increasing the programmes funding by Rs 13,560 crore in the current fiscal. "The SSA has a budget estimate of Rs 25,555 crore for 2012-13 as against an original demand of Rs 48,153 crore. I must bring to your bnotice that SSA has been short of funds for the past three years by as much as Rs 1,14, 436 crore against a Cabinet approved commitment of Rs 2,31,233 crore," Raju argued making a case for additional funding for the programme. Explaining that the finance minister needs not only to restore the Rs 2,055 crore cut, but also to hike the total outlay, Raju had given a detailed listing of the committed liabilities to meet the norms set out by the Right to Education Act for completion of school infrastructure. This comprises Rs 7,029 crore for the 20,000 school buildings that are under construction, 1.58 lakh class rooms, 11,461 drinking water facilities and 1,21 lakh toilets, and an additional sum of Rs 6,531 crore as teacher salaries for the period November to March. These items are over and above the targets covered under the central, state and 13th Finance Commission funds available for the current year.

Migration to Saudi Arabia has a Social Cost: Study

THIRUVANANTHAPUR AM, JAN 3: A study on migration of Indians to Saudi Arabia says that despite various economic advantages, there is also a social cost that migrants are forced to pay over time for staying away from their kin. "Remittances from migration potentially improve education and health outcomes for children. However, the opportunity costs of absentee parents make children less likely to receive some essential nutritional inputs, like breastfeeding," says S. Irudaya Rajan of the Centre for Development Studies here. Irudaya Rajan along with Jolin Joseph authored the study, 'Living and Working Conditions of Low and Semi-Skilled Migrants', commissioned by the ministry of overseas Indian affairs' research unit on international migration. The most painful and tangible social cost of migration is the separation of children from parents, says the study, adding that the absence of mothers, in particular, results in the breakdown of the traditional care-giving arrangement. "In the absence of adequate parental guidance, children grow up confused and this may manifest in rebellion, school absenteeism, drop-outs and substance abuse," says Irudaya Rajan. The study is also part of a book titled: India Migration Report 2012, Social Cost of Migration, which is edited by Irudaya Rajan. The book is likely to be released at the Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas that begins in the Kerala port city of Kochi Monday. Irudaya Rajan told IANS that the study focuses on Saudi Arabia, which is among the world's principal labour destinations, for its geopolitical importance, the significant size of Indian migrant population, rigid border controls, stringent laws and the way the country treats its immigrants. "The Saudi economic engine relies heavily on its transient population owing to the low literacy rates and high unemployment rates of its native population. The abundance of capital on one side and the shortage of domestic labour on the other led the mass influx of workers to meet manpower requirements," Irudaya Rajan adds. According to the annual report of the ministry of overseas Indian affairs, Saudi Arabia continues to be the desired destination among low- and semiskilled workers from India. The country attracted about 289,297 immigrants from India in 2011. However, Irudaya Rajan points out that vulnerabilities of the Indian diaspora in Saudi Arabia warrant immediate attention of the Indian government. "The central question for immigration policy must be the balance between costs and benefits. Human rights apply to all migrants and we must do more to close the gap between rhetorical support for migrant rights and tangible commitments to ensure their well-being. "The solution lies not only in generating awareness but also in creating viable alternatives. Pragmatic policies are necessary to streamline the migration process and help migrant workers and their families advance on the road to improved life chances," says Irudaya Rajan.

Canada opens doors to skilled foreign workers

changes are part of the government's plan to build a fast and flexible immigration system that is responsive to the needs of Canada's economy," he said. Canada, under the programme, will accept applications from up to 3,000 tradespersons in 43 occupations, including electricians, welders, heavy-duty equipment mechanics and pipe-fitters. To qualify for the programne, foreign applicants need to have an employment offer in Canada, or a certificate of qualification from a province or one of Canada's three territories ensuring they are "job ready" upon their arrival. Applicants must also be able to demonstrate proficiency in one of Canada's two official languages English and French - as well as have a minimum of two years of work experience as a skilled tradesperson, and show they have performed the essential duties of their occupation.

OTTAWA,JAN 3: Canada began accepting applications from skilled foreign workers Wednesday under a new programme to address labour shortages being witnessed in parts of the country. The new Skilled Trades Programme will address serious labour shortages that some regions of the country are facing, and will help grow Canada's economy, Xinhua quoted Immigration Minister Jason Kenney as saying in a statement. "These long-overdue

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MISC
1st Test: South Africa declares with imposing 302-run lead
CAPE TOWN: South Africa declared their first innings at 347 for 8, a lead of 302 on day two of the first Test at Newlands on Thursday. Trent Boult and Chris Martin took three wickets each as New Zealand displayed a much-improved performance after AB de Villiers's half-century guided South Africa to 335 for 6 at lunch. The hosts, who bowled out New Zealand for 45 on the first day, resumed on 252 for three, but the touring side made the ideal start when Trent Boult forced Alviro Petersen to play on after adding just three runs to his overnight score of 103. Early morning rain had cleared two hours before the start of play, but the ominous grey skies remained for much of the morning and De Villiers and Faf du Plessis had to survive an awkward period in which the pitch offered the seamers lateral movement. The disciplined bowling from the Black Caps soon accounted for Du Plessis, whose test average of 146.50

8
Pakistan`s South Africa tour starts Jan 25
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan will travel to South Africa for a series comprising three Tests, five ODI`s and two Twenty20s later this month. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced on Jan 2 that the two-month long tour will start Jan 25 with a four-day match against South African Invitation XI at Buffalo Park and will conclude March 24 with the fifth and final ODI match at Willowmoore Park, Benoni. The teams for the series will be picked after the end of the tour to India for a brief limited over series. PCB is yet to announce the date for the team`s departure for the South Africa tour. According to statistics, South Africa has a upper hand over Pakistan with more victories. Pakistan and South Africa have played 18 Test matches so far. Pakistan won only three and lost eight of them while seven matches went drawn.

Indian ODI squad to be picked on Jan 6

NEW DELHI: The Indian squad for the five-match ODI series against England, starting in Rajkot on January 11, will be picked on Jan 6, a BCCI release said on Thursday. The selection committee headed by chief selector, Sandeep Patil will meet after the conclusion of the third ODI between India and Pakistan on January 6 in the capital. England, after winning the four-Test series 2-1 and drawing the two-match Twenty20 International had left for home for Christmas and New Year. They would back for the One-day International series.

Azarenka storms into Brisbane semi-finals

BRISBANE: Top-ranked Victoria Azarenka wasted no time in a 6-1, 6-0 win over Kazakh qualifier Ksenia Pervak on Thursday, setting up a possible semi-final showdown with Serena Williams at the Brisbane International. Azarenka, the reigning Australian Open champion, needed only 68 minutes to win her quarter-final, breaking Pervak's serve seven times. Pervak had opened the tournament with an upset win over former No. 1 Caroline Wozniacki, but didn't have anything left to trouble Azarenka after coming off back-to-back matches decided in third-set tiebreakers. No. 3-ranked Williams was playing fellow American Sloane Stephens in a another quarter-final. Williams has won 33 of her last 34 matches, including titles at Wimbledon, the Olympics and US Open. She has an 111 record against Azarenka, including five wins in all of the matches they played in 2012. Azarenka and Williams were the only two

South Africa's batsman AB de Villiers lines up a shot during day two of the first Test match between South Africa and New Zealand at Newlands on January 3, 2013 in Cape Town. after two matches took a hit when Chris Martin had him caught at gully for 15 with the score on 281. Dean Elgar received an ironic ovation from the home crowd when he made his first run in test cricket at the third time of asking. The pair remained resolute in testing conditions, though, and the decision by New Zealand to take the new ball only succeeded in breaking the shackles as De Villiers brought up his 30th test fifty with consecutive boundaries off Boult. The spotlight was on Boult two overs later as he appeared to have Elgar trapped in front, but after umpire Rod Tucker shook his head, the Kiwis failed to call for a review which replays showed would have resulted in a reversal of the Australian's decision. As the clouds relented and the sun bore through, Boult got his man in the penultimate over before the interval when Elgar edged a catch to wicketkeeper BJ Watling for a hard-fought 21. The top-ranked South Africans reached 335 for six at lunch, 290 runs ahead and with the determined De Villiers unbeaten on 61.

Bopanna-Ram pair advances to quarterfinals of Chennai Open

CHENNAI: India's Rohan Bopanna and India-born American Rajeev Ram progressed with ease into the doubles event quarterfinals of the Aircel Chennai Open tennis tournament on Wednesday night. The third seeded pair took just an hour to dispose of Lu Yen-Hsun (Tpe) and Go Soeda (Jpn) 6-4, 6-3 and they will take on Benoit Paire of France and Stanislas Wawrinka (Sui) in the quarterfinal tie. Earlier, in another doubles on the side court, German duo of Andre Begemann and Martin Emmrich defeated the English pair Jaime Delgado and Ken Skupski 7-6 (3) and 6-2. In a centre court singles matches, second seed Janko Tipservic of Serbia defeated Roger Vasselin Edouard of France 6-2, 6-3 to make the quarterfinal, while fourth seed Stanislas Wawrinka beat Stebe Cedrik Marcel 6-4 6-3.

Top-ranked Victoria Azarenka wasted no time in a 6-1, 6-0 win over Kazakh qualifier Ksenia Pervak. seeded players still in contention after No. 36-ranked Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova of Russia beat No. 4 Angelique Kerber of Germany 7-6 (3), 7-6 (3), her second win over a Top 10 player this week after beating 2011 Wimbledon champion Petra Kvitova in the first round.

3rd Test: Thirimanne misses ton, SL 294 all out

SYDNEY: Australia's fourpronged pace attack overcame spirited resistance from Lahiru Thirimanne and Mahela Jayawardene before dismissing Sri Lanka for 294 to end the opening day of the third Test against Australia on Thursday. Both Thirimanne, who scored a career best 91 just three days after joining the Sri Lanka squad as an emergency replacement, and Jayawardene, who hit 72 in his penultimate innings as captain, threatened to make a sunny day in Sydney their own. Ultimately though, Australia captain Michael Clarke's decision on winning the toss to send his pacemen Test since last April to replace the injured Kumar Sangakkara, Thirimanne had shown a fight that had largely been absent from the batting of his better-known compatriots on the tour so far. The 23-year-old lefthander survived an lbw decision on his first ball courtesy of the television appeal and assumed the mantle from Jayawardene when his captain was dismissed after his first half-century outside Sri Lanka for more than three years. Thirimanne reached his second half century with a cover drive off Mitchell Johnson for three runs and, punishing any loose deliveries, smashed 13 fours and a six in his 151-ball knock. The end to his innings came chasing another boundary off Lyon and it took an exceptional catch from David Warner at cover point to snare the miscued drive, leaving the batsmen bowed over his bat in despair. Injuries had forced Jayawardene into naming a team with four changes from the side that was thrashed by an innings and 201 runs in Melbourne last week and he seemed determined to make up for that humiliation, on his own if necessary. After a cautious start, the 35-year-old came out firing after lunch and smashed 13 boundaries in his 154-minute knock before Starc removed him with a fizzing ball that caught a thick edge and flew to Clarke in the slips. There was a nervous wait for the raucous crowd basking in the sun at the Sydney Cricket Ground while a check was made for the no-ball, but the television pictures confirmed that Starc's heel had grazed the white line. Starc, rested for the Melbourne Test, also accounted for captain-elect Angelo Mathews (15) and returned to remove Dinesh Chandimal for 24 with a perfect yorker on the first delivery with the second new ball. Bird had removed both Sri Lanka openers in the opening session, having Dimuth Karunaratne caught off a top edge for five and returning an hour later to dismiss Tillakaratne Dilshan, caught behind for 34. His third victim was Rangana Herath (5) and, with the end of the day approaching, he returned to remove Suranga Lakmal (5) to end the Sri Lankan innings. Michael Hussey, playing in his final Test before retirement, got a huge cheer when he was handed the ball for two overs before tea but he was unable to snare what would have been a popular wicket to add to his three catches.

With a century in sight off 151 balls, Lahiru Thirimanne tossed away his wicket on 91. out to bowl first was all but vindicated, and the hosts will have finished the day confident that they can wrap up the series 3-0. Jackson Bird, the least experienced of the quartet, took 4 for 41, Mitchell Starc 3 for 71 and Peter Siddle grabbed a brace with spinner Nathan Lyon pitching in to end Thirimanne's knock just shy of his maiden Test century. Brought in for his first

Sports ministry washes its hands of boxing mess

BANGALORE: The Union sports ministry reiterated on Wednesday that it would not be the force behind the formation of an ad-hoc committee to end the impasse surrounding boxing in the country. Ministry officials said they wouldn't want to interfere in the affairs of sports federations as it would "set a wrong precedent". The best way out was for the International Amateur Boxing Association (AIBA) to form the panel to run the sport till a solution is found, they said. The AIBA and the sports ministry suspended the Indian Amateur Boxing Federation (IABF) last month, contending that there were too many unanswered questions in the elections held in September. The world body initially continued its correspondence with the old officebearers of IABF but later told them that it would no longer communicate with any boxing federation official in India. "All matters will be dealt directly with the Indian Ministry of Sports," an AIBA letter said. In a bind, boxing officials exhorted the ministry to form an ad-hoc body, comprising ministry and Sports Authority of India officials and those from the federation to lift the sport out of the mess. On Wednesday, ministry officials said that the government would stay away from the impasse. "We realise the AIBA would communicate only with us. If they do call on us, we will tell them that we will not take the initiative of forming the ad-hoc body. We would rather want the AIBA to take the lead, form a new body before elections are held," an official said. The official argued that this was the best way forward as sport did not brook any interference from the ministry. "This precedent can be misused in future or even be pinpointed as an instance where the Olympic ideals were flouted. We don't want that to happen," he said.

Snapchat more popular than Facebook Poke

LONDON: Despite the news that Snapchat's self-destructing videos can be saved and the release of a rival version by Facebook, the video-messaging app Snapchat has become more popular than ever. Snapchat users can specify the lifespan of their picture and video messages, but once opened none can last longer than 10 seconds within the app. Now the service is being hailed as one of the top apps for 2013, in large part because it gained widespread popularity among teenagers with smartphones before gaining media attention. The rise in popularity came despite a report claiming that videos sent via the app can be stored using a workaround. Facebook also released Poke in a bid to jump on the popularity of the apps that delete their messages automatically, which have also been linked to young people 'sexting' inappropriate material. Analysts had thought that the rival app, along with news that easily available tools allowed iPhone users to save Snapchat videos, would dent the rise of the app. But Facebook's Poke has rapidly fallen down app popularity charts, despite a concerted PR effort by the social network, which revealed that founder Mark Zuckerberg had written code for the app himself and that it has been created in just weeks, the paper said.

Deepest corals in Great Barrier Reef discovered

MELBOURNE: Scientists mapping the Great Barrier Reef in Australia have discovered the deepest corals yet, 125 metres below the ocean's surface where waters are as dark as night. The remarkable finding of a community of reef corals at depths previously thought to be impossible was made on the outer edge of the Ribbon Reefs to the north of the Barrier Reef. The groundbreaking scientific expedition has found further evidence that corals are more resilient and widespread than previously thought. Pristine corals have been found deep below the surface in areas where surface reefs have been badly damaged. The use of remotely operated vehicles has opened up a new world of coral exploration. The Catlin survey has looked at 30 coral reefs along the 2300 km Great Barrier Reef. "The discovery shows that there are coral communities on the Great Barrier Reef existing at considerably greater depths than we could ever have imagined," said Pim Bongaerts from the Global Change Institute at the University of Queensland. "Most important of all, these discoveries show just how little we really know about the Reef and how much more is yet to be discovered. "When we began our survey, we were amazed to see significant coral communities at depths of around 60m. However, it is truly mindblowing to see reef coral at more than twice that depth and four times deeper than most scuba divers can reach," said Bongaerts. The plating Leptoseris corals were found at a depth of 125m. The Catlin Seaview Survey supports the collection of scientific data so experts can better understand climate change and its risks. The Great Barrier Reef expedition is part of a program to survey many of the world's coral reefs, which are under threat from climate change through warming oceans, acidification of seawater, coastal pollution and unsustainable fishing practices, the report said. The deep coral discovery was possible due to very calm weather, Dr Paul MuirMuir, a taxonomist from the Museum of Tropical Queensland and team member, said. Scientists were able to deploy the robot on the very front of the Ribbon Reefs, an area usually too dangerous to anchor.

Deep-sea corals found lower than ever seen before in the Great Barrier Reef. The corals are four times deeper than most scuba divers can dive.

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