Book Brings 51 Assamese Sports Persons Together

Two young journalists of Assam wrote a book, first of its kind, on the life and achievements of 51 Assam's sports persons who represented India in international events.

By Manas Pratim Sarma

Writing A sports article might not be a difficult task. But writing a book on sports is not an easy achievement. And if the book covers a whole range of sportspersons from various fields, it would be marked as a treasure for generations to come.

Two young journalists of Assam have made a remarkable contribution by publishing a book on sportspersons of Assam, who represented the country in different sports arenas.

It is a dream come true for Jintu Barthakur and Chiranjib Sharma when their hard work was highly praised not only by the sports fraternity of North East but also by people from other walks of life. "Antorjatik Krirakhetrot So-ta Dashakar Asomiya" (Assamese Sportsperson on International Platform Over Six Decades) is the result of the hard work and the commitment of Jintu and Chiranjib. Assamese sportsmen have a glorious past, a colorful present and a promising future.

From the time of the magical shots of the first International Assamese footballer T. Ao (captain of the Indian team,1948 London Olympic) to the time of the sensational archer Jayanta Talukdar, many Assamese players have brought home many international awards, thus bringing glory to the nation. The book covers the careers and lives of 51 players who represented India in various Olympic Sports at various times.

"We tried to cover the lives of different Assamese sportspersons who represented India. We thought it was the best option to introduce the sportsmen over six decades (by writing the book)", Said Jintu. But the job was not so easy. It took almost 3 years to give the final touch, added Jintu, who is also a sport journalist of a leading daily of Assam.

"We traveled extensively to interview many sportsmen", said Chiranjib, the co-author of the book. The book included Bhogeswar Barua, Fariha Zaman, Babul Phookan, Krishna Dekaraja, Madhurjya Barua, Monalisa Barua Mehta and many others. In addition, the Assamese players who had represented India in various non-Olympic events get credit for their glory in a special section of the book.

The unique effort of Jintu and Chiranjib had been appreciated. Demand for the book has been increasing since it was released. "This book is very special as no such step has been taken earlier to bring these stars on single platform", says R J Duori. After the overwhelming response, the writers are now planning to hit the market with the second edition of the book.

Oil India Willing to Take Over ONGC Assam Oilfields

New Delhi, Jan 31 : As Government mulls hiving off Oil and Natural Gas Corp's Assam oilfields, state-owned Oil India has said it is willing to take over the assets and can run the fields more efficiently than that the current owner.

"There is no probability, we will definitely be able to run them (Assam oilfields of ONGC) better than anyone else," OIL Chairman and Managing Director N M Borah told a news conference here.

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has suggested that ONGC explore the possibility of hiving off its Assam assets into a wholly-owned subsidiary. The proposal is aimed at improving the productivity of ONGC’s Assam operations.

ONGC produces 1.1 million tons of crude oil annually from the Assam fields employing over 4,000 personnel. On contrast, OIL used 6,500-odd employees to produces 3.

ULFA Talks: RSS Rules Out Compromise on India’s Sovereignty

"RSS keeps away from politics. Hindutva teaches tolerance and acceptance": RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat.

New Delhi, Jan 31 : RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat today echoed the government’s stance on peace talks with the ULFA, stressing that the country’s sovereignty and unity are non-negotiable.

“The sovereignty, unity and security of the country cannot be negotiated with. Talks are held under peaceful conditions and not by fighting. So the discussions have to be within this parameter,” Bhagwat told reporters here.

On various ethnic and insurgent groups demanding autonomy or separate states by balkanizing Assam, he said, “The country is one and it is only for administrative convenience that states were made.”

To queries on steps by the RSS to stop the alleged large-scale conversion activities of Christian missionaries in the northeast, he said, “Conversion is either by lure or force. Earlier, there was no resistance from the people. But now people are alert and we are creating awareness about it.

“As progress brings about awareness, the RSS, besides the government, is helping the development activities of the country. If people are alert, they cannot be converted and lose their cultural identity.”

The RSS chief said Hindutva was also a way forward for stopping conversion as it awakened awareness in society.

India has evolved a unique social system having a distinct view of life with values in society. On this basis, Hindutva is for unity in diversity, people of different cultures to live together, smaller identities live harmoniously as a part of a larger identity. This is Indian culture,” Bhagwat said.

On reports about missionaries indulging in child trafficking in the northeast, Bhagwat said poverty was being exploited and this had to be stopped through strict measures.

Discounting Shiv Sena’s claim that Mumbai was for Marathi Manoos only, the RSS chief said, “Mumbai is for all Indians. People of all languages, communities, tribes are children of India...Nobody can prevent Indians from moving to any part of the country in search of employment.”

On the unabated illegal migration of Bangladeshis into Assam, he said “The Supreme Court and the Foreigners Act are clear on who is a foreigner. The infiltrators are a danger to our economy and culture.”

He said the government has not taken the issue seriously. “Its first job is to protect the sovereignty, unity and security of the country. Vote considerations weigh heavy on taking measures against infiltrators. Problem delayed is solution delayed as it has a negative impact on security.”

Asked if the RSS made distinctions between Hindu and Muslim Bangladeshi infiltrators, Bhagwat said, “Under the Foreigners Act, all coming voluntarily, irrespective of religion, are foreigners. Those thrown out from there are refugees and are to be treated accordingly as per law.”

The RSS had begun a public awareness campaign on the foreigners issue as it was the only way within the democratic limits, he said.

On Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi taking a broadside at UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi’s foreign origin, Bhagwat said, “RSS keeps away from politics. Hindutva teaches tolerance and acceptance.”

Alex Reid is The Celebrity Big Brother

Alex Reid, the cage-fighting boyfriend of glamour model Jordan a.k.a. Katie Price, has won Celebrity Big Brother. The 34-year-old emerged victorious with 65.9 per cent of the public vote with singer Dane Bowers getting the second place with 34.1 per cent votes.

Football hard-man turned Hollywood actor Vinnie Jones came third with 20.2 per cent votes. Channel 4 have announced that this was the last celebrity version of the series which will be made.

After been adjudged winner, Reid, who was booed by crowds as the show got under way, said, “I love Katie Price. I really love her.” Jordan was thought to be at the studio to greet him. She sensationally dumped Reid on ITV reality show I”m a Celebrity … but the pair are thought to have got back together before he went into the house.

Channel 4 have announced that this year’s series of Celebrity Big Brother will be the last, although the regular version featuring members of the public will return in the summer.

Meghalaya Has Two Chief Ministers Now

Shillong, Jan 31 : Meghalaya now has two Chief Ministers: Congress leader D D Lapang and the party's state unit chief Dr Friday Lyngdoh.

An official press release recently said the Meghalaya government has promoted Deputy Chief Minister Friday Lyngdoh to the rank of the chief minister.

Lyngdoh is the Meghalaya Pradesh Congress Committee (MPCC) president.

"The rank and status of Lyngdoh has been upgraded from the rank of deputy chief minister to that of chief minister. He shall continue to function as political advisor to the Chief Minister," the official notification read.

"Lapang is the real chief minister, while Lyngdoh is chief minister without any power," a senior Meghalaya minister loyal to Lapang was quoted by news agency as saying.

"In Meghalaya everything is possible. You are with one party at lunch, have dinner with a different party and are with a third party for breakfast. That is why there is so much instability in the state," said A Lyngdoh, a tribal community leader.

Congress spokesman Manish Tiwari told a TV channel, "I don't think constitutionally it is impermissible. There is a chief minister and another has been given the rank of chief minister."

Religion in Nagaland Newspapers

An outstanding feature of the conflict framing seen in newspapers here is the fact that it is rooted in Christian theology. What makes journalism in Nagaland unique is that what is acceptable here would not be acceptable in most other parts of an officially secular country.

By Sevanti Ninan with Athili Anthony Sapriina

Kohima Cathedral

The media is a significant player in any region with a history of ongoing conflict, violent or otherwise. What makes journalism in Nagaland unique is that what is acceptable here would not be acceptable in most other parts of an officially secular country.

The outstanding feature of the conflict framing seen in newspapers here is the fact that it is rooted in Christian theology and that is accepted as the norm.

Editorials are written invoking Biblical injunctions. Guest contributions are frequent written by priests. Politicians exhort the people using a biblical context.

There is therefore a substantial component of religious contextualizing, even exhortations, in the daily press.

Such as, On our part, we sincerely regard the reconciliation process as a channel of blessing to the Nagas and shall honor the 'Covenant of Reconciliation'. We shall not be found wanting in our quest for peace.

Col. Levi Zimik

PRO/IPR Naga Army

Posted on Friday, October 02, 2009

Or,

NPMHR questions factional feud

The Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) also expressed deep anguish and disgust at  the recent 'reappearance of armed clashes and killings of cadres between the two NSCN(s) groups in Tirap district Arunachal Pradesh on March 12, 2009 and around Bhandari in Wokha, Nagaland on March  14, 2009. 'Whatever may be the justification or counter allegations made by both groups, NPMHR questions the factional feud and considers it as going against the spirit of turning swords into ploughshares', stated a press communiqué' issued by Dr. N. Venuh, Secretary General of the NPMHR.

March 18, 2009 Morung Express

Religious sentiments, predominantly Christian, has always been the binding and also the reconciling factors in the Naga society and there has always been underlying religious influence on Naga nationalism. Newspapers in Nagaland bring a faith-based theme to the Naga conflict when they  highlight the role of religion in the Naga issue.

Naga society is stepped in Christianity and the Church is a major influence on society. Christian religion is synonymous with Naga nationalism, even with the NSCN-IM carrying the slogan 'Nagaland for Christ,' which Th Muivah, Secretary of NSCN-IM said in an interview was the 'manifestation that Nagas can never part with their faith in Christ the savior.'

Newspapers editorials on the Naga issue oft underscore the religion theme. A Nagaland Post editorial 'A time to heal,' stresses that the common Christian faith is the common bond that brings different Naga tribes together.

'The Church therefore plays a vital role as a mediator for reconciliation. Biblically, the first step towards reconciliation is repentance before God and to seek forgiveness. From those who have been wronged and willingness to forgive by those who have been wronged.'

A significant proportion  of the conflict or peace process coverage in Nagaland is also through primary texts, or the actual speeches and writings of the actors  involved, often reproduced in full. One consequence of this is that newspapers become an unmediated medium, with the framing, which is frequently theological, remaining intact. For instance The Naga Forum for Reconciliation comprising of apex tribal bodies and organizations, set up in February 2008, uses newspapers to communicate its goals. In February 2009 when the Forum organised the Naga Convention for Reconciliation and Hope, the Forum’s convener Wati Aier made a speech which was carried in full by local newspapers, and which set out thus, his exhortation to all Nagas.

The FNR greets each of you in the name of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ!

On this momentous day, I humbly stand before the Naga people with awe:

' That God is sovereign and Lord of all nations and peoples and powerfully present in our midst!

' That the Naga spirit is alive and kicking! Your presence here this morning proves it all.

' I am in awe, to realize that the future of the Nagas is right here, at our disposal to be ushered in by the Nagas themselves!

Therefore, this is a decisive moment for us. What we decide here is going to be important. Let no one go away from here without making a fresh commitment to the Naga cause, indeed to our destiny.

When Aier is given conventional reporting treatment however, it comes across like this:

According to the forum?s convener, Rev. Dr. Wati Aier, the Naga Convention for Reconciliation and Peace will be a time for the Nagas to look at the current difficulties and 'trying to figure out as to where do we go from here'.

The meeting will dwell on reconciliation while also acknowledging and supporting the Naga political talks, on with the centre. 'We are not saying that the talks (Indo-Naga talks) should stop and reconciliation must happen. But we want that both the talks and reconciliation must be given equal emphasis' Dr. Aier said.

(Morung Express, 24 February, 2009)

It could be argued therefore that from an activist peace journalism point of view a Naga newspaper is being a more effective  instrument for peace when it is functioning as an unmediated platform, rather than when it is practicing journalism.

Here are more examples of  articles from newspapers with  a religious theme.

An appeal for prayer by Arshing Sankhil, General Secretary, Council of Nagalim Churches MIP/GPRN (Nagaland Page -December 2, 2009)

Excerpts- As the council of Nagalim Churches brings this appeal at your door step, we bring it along with Christmas greetings at your home. ?May the joy of peace by upon you.

We would like to appeal to all the national workers to ardently uphold in prayers with fasting the following mentioned points on December 6, Sunday 2009, the National Fasting Day of the month

The collective leadership, that the leading hand of God may continually uphold them as they lead the Naga people along the way towards destination.

The Forum of Naga Reconciliation that God may lead and direct them in their every move for Naga Reconciliation process.

The Government of India and its rulers/leaders that God may give them courage, strength and wisdom so that they do not fail in their part of responsibility in solving the Indo-Naga political issue and inter-relation of the two nations

When compromise is an evil- Thepfulhouvi Solo (Nagaland Post, December 5, 2009)

Excerpts- Killings in Nagaland is said to have decreased because of forgive and forget good works of the peace workers. It is so through the prayer of the faithful but not wholly so. Normalcy seems to be descending on Nagaland because the violent parties have seen what has happened to terror Prahakaran and his world famous world?s greatest suicide organizations.

The sense of 'forgive and forget' not origination from the heart is not forgiveness. The Church and Churchmen in particular emphasizes the heart and not the head.

Culture of Violence- Morung Express Editorial (December 2, 2009)

Excerpts- We professes to be a Christian state and people but we have failed to live accordingly. This is our collective failure. Let us all bow our heads in shame.. But how long will we shame our self.

The right thing should be done at the right time- by Rev L Souhie Mhasi/ Readers Mirror- Letters & Views (Eastern Mirror, October 17, 2009)

Excerpts- Praises be to the God and thanked be to the leaders of the FNR for stoppage of killing. The agreement for reconciliation should be materialized whereby the reconciliation should be a holistic reconciliation.

Who is hampering peace and unity to prevail? By Reverend Vicahakielie Perheilie Khruomo, Founder, Christian Democratic Party. (October 28, 2009, Eastern Mirror /Readers Mirror)

Excerpts- Dear Nagas, who is hampering peace and unity to prevail in our land? Is it the money seekers? Is it the fame seekers? Or is it because of those who wrestle for leadership?

Whether NSCN-K, NNC or Federal, every factional leader are deeply concerned to unite Nagas and make them one. Among the Nagas, there have been lots of disunity, hatreds and killings and indulging in various sinful practices. Therefore, on the National Fasting and Prayer programme, NSCN (IM) General Secretary Th Muivah asserts that one of the greatest enemy is sin. Thus, unless we confess our sins and commit no more, it will devour the Nagas.

The Voice of God to Naga Freedom Fighters ? Imsu Jamir, Healing Prayer Centre (June 18, 2009-Eastern Mirror/Readers Mirror)

Excerpts- 'The Naga freedom fighter should lament bitterly thus says the Lord. You are searching peace and freedom but you are the destroyer of peace and freedom. Your efforts to achieve peace and freedom are getting lost and weakening every day because you have killed many innocent children of God whose voice have reached heaven thus say the Lord.

Therefore, I will curse you and even your children because you have committed unforgivable sin against God. Therefore some clans and groups who defile God shall be completely wiped out from existence thus say the Lord.

If the Nagas do not revive themselves and turn to God, your land shall become a land without human beings thus say the Holy Spirit- Mathew- 24:35 Luke- 21:33

Covenant of Reconciliation- Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) (June 15, 2009 All local papers)

'Having been deeply convicted by God's call in Christ, and the voice of the Naga people, we hereby solemnly commit before God to offer our self to Naga Reconciliation and Forgiveness based on the Historical and Political Rights of the Nagas.

We resolve to continue to work together in this spirit of love, non violence, peace and respect to resolve outstanding issues amongst us.

Furthermore, we exhort and call upon other Naga groups to join us in Reconciling with each other?

The Morung Express had the following poll whose results  goes against all of the above:

Do you Consider Nagaland as a Christian State ? Morung Express Polls

The Result

Yes  15 percent

No    67 percent

Others 18 percent

In this state forgiveness, soul searching and reconciliation for the Naga political issue always seems to be articulated in religious terms. From the articles contributed by readers to the local news papers with regard to the Naga political issue, there is always a point made on religion and faith. But the fact that the Naga 'national workers' as the cadres are called, do  not follow the ideologies and principles of Christ's teaching has been an issue for  many readers. 

They wonder why the Naga national workers cheat, extort and kill their brethren, when they profess to be working for the freedom of the land and  its people, under  the benevolence and direction of God.

Really Clever Healthy Food Packaging

Stereotype by Daizi Zheng is a series of creative food packaging designed to encourage people to change their bad eating habits. The project includes carrot sticks packaged like cigarettes, blueberries in a blister pack, and celery sticks in a familiar french fry carton.

While this clever packaging tactic may encourage people to rethink their relationship with healthy food, those blueberries have to be hard to pop out without making a mess.

Via Toxel

Sikkim Promotes Village Tourism

By Tashi Pradhan

Gangtok, Jan 31 : Endowed with spectacular scenic beauty, Sikkim is harnessing its natural bounty for sustainable development through village tourism.

Sikkim is considered as one of the most peaceful and fastest developing states of Northeast India.

In a bid to further develop its economy, the first Winter Village Festival was held at Assam Lingzey village in Gangtok with the aim of promoting Village tourism to boost its revenue generation mechanism.

During the festival, villagers of the area got an opportunity to exhibit their products and resources besides presenting the unique traditions and distinctive cultural features of the Sikkimese society to the visitors.

"We want to introduce eco-friendly tourist spots. We will be able to supply organic based products. Once we start working in this sector, we will be able to encourage local people in tourism sector." Amrit Rai, member, organizing committee, Winter Village Fest.

Different government departments, self-help groups, NGOs and Panchayat units set up around 32 stalls that showcased traditional Sikkimese food, exotic flowers and crafts of the state.

The main attractions of the event were Adventure sports like rock climbing and cultural shows.

"This type of program will definitely attract tourists from outside. They will get the benefit of knowing new traditions, cultures and people of different types. We can interact," said Kamala Rai, a local.

The Sikkim Government is aiming to build more traditional houses in model villages with suitable modern amenities so that tourist can experience the rural lifestyle of the state.

Assam's Picnic Spot Chawki Attracts Tourists as Insurgency Recedes

By Peter Todd Alex

Guwahati, Jan 31 : Nature has been generous to Assam by providing it with amazing natural beauty. And, as insurgency declines, people are making their way to various tourist spots across the state.

Chawki, an upcoming picnic spot at Uttarkuci in Baksa district of Assam, is attracting hundreds of people from across the state.

Filled with immense scenic beauty, lush green mountains and meandering rivers that cross its diversified landscapes, the place is a picnickers treat.
The minimum entry fee is charged from every picnic party and the revenue collected is utilized for the maintenance of the place.

Located at the Indo- Bhutan Border, Chawki was once affected by militant activity, but But as normalcy returns, so do tourists.

"Nowadays, there are less and almost no disturbances in the area. Insurgency problem is lessening here. So, people are coming here peacefully," said Dipak Kalita, a visitor.

A local NGO "Manas Sousi Khongkhor Eco-Tourism Society" comprising of local youths, some of them ex-militants who have laid down their arms and others ex-poachers, have taken the responsibility to develop Chawki and its adjoining areas.

The Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), has its base-camps in the area and this also helps to maintain peace in the area.

"After the NDFB and the ULFA moved out from here, this place has become very peaceful. As the place is beautiful, people are coming here for picnics. An NGO has opened up and developed this place. Poor people from the area like us can now earn money by doing business," said Sulkal Daimary, a local vendor.

The revival of normalcy has not only brought back visitors to Chawki but has also generated business for the local residents who are extremely happy with the changes that have taken place.

Aggrieved Mizoram Cabbies Approach Court

Aizawl, Jan 31 : Taxi owners and drivers have moved to the Gauhati High Court against the Mizoram government's order for rotational service for Aizawl taxis.

Zoram Taxi Drivers' Association (ZTDA) sources said here today that the cabbies filed an FIR with the Aizawl bench of Gauhati High Court against the order which came into effect from September 14 last year.

After hearing on the case, the high court served show cause notice to the state government of Mizoram, state transport commissioner, state home secretary, SP (Traffic), secretary of state transport authority, traffic management committee and secretary of ZTDA.

In a bid to ease the increasing traffic snarls in the city, the government had proposed rotational service for the taxis from September 14, 2009, according to which each taxi has four days a week, excluding Sundays, to operate.

There are about 400 taxis in Aizawl.

Gates Commits $10 Billion To Vaccines

Stockholm, Switzerland, Jan 31 : U.S. philanthropists Bill and Melinda Gates say their foundation will spend a record $10 billion over 10 years to develop vaccines for AIDS and other diseases.

"We must make this the decade of vaccines," Bill Gates said Friday at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.

The commitment is the largest pledge ever made by a charitable foundation to a single cause, The Chronicle of Philanthropy reported.

The $10 billion program is to focus on vaccines for AIDS, pneumonia, tuberculosis and rota virus, the Gateses said, adding vaccines for those diseases could prevent nearly 9 million deaths.

The Gateses, who amassed their wealth through Bill Gates's development of Microsoft Corp. into today's computer software behemoth, said they were concerned the global recession and competing government prioritize would slow effort to combat diseases in developing countries, The Wall Street Journal reported.

Excluding Friday's commitment, the Gates Foundation has committed more than $21 billion to global health, education and agriculture since it was established in 1994.

Britain Interested In Business With Mizoram

Aizawl, Jan 31 : The British Government has evinced keen interest in doing business with Mizoram. British Deputy High Commissioner for Eastern India Sanjay Wadvani told media persons here today that his main purpose of visit Mizoram was to explore trade avenues where his country and the State may be able to work together.

“My main purpose (of visit) was fact finding, to find more about what is happening economically and politically and to identify areas where we can work together,” the diplomat told reporters over lunch.
Wadvani expressed concern that the entire Northeast, despite its huge potential in different sectors, remained unknown to the British investors and tourists. This, he believed, was mainly because of lack of publicity and the insurgency problems.

“Only a few British tourists visit the Northeast, including Mizoram. I hope if the huge potential in tourism was properly tapped, Mizoram’s natural beauty will attract more and more tourists in the future,” Wadvani said. Wadvani agreed that Mizoram has huge potential in eco-tourism but lacks tourism infrastructure such as accommodations. He observed that there was considerable scope of collaboration in two particular areas –– environment or green technology and education.

“My colleagues will also visit Mizoram in the days to come. We will ask British companies to venture into the State,” he said. Prior to the meeting, the British diplomat had met Mizoram Governor Lt Gen (Rtd.) M M Lakhera and industries minister S Hiato separately.

The governor informed the British diplomat how Mizoram could benefit from the border trade with Bangladesh and Myanmar and India’s Look East Policy, the State’s rich potential in gas and oil, hydro-electricity and organic farming.

Wadvani also met Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla at the latter’s office today. They agreed to find ways to rope the British companies doing business in mainland India into the Northeast, including Mizoram.

Bhutan to Export Oranges to Bangladesh Via Northeast India

Shillong, Jan 30 : Bhutan will export oranges and other horticultural products to Bangladesh through India's northeastern states, officials said here Saturday.

'The first consignment of oranges would be exported to Sylhet in Bangladesh soon through the Dawki land customs station in Meghalaya,' a senior Meghalaya government official said.

'New Delhi has recently agreed to a Bhutan government proposal to carry out the export to Bangladesh through the northeastern states.'

To finalise the modalities and formalities, a delegation from Bhutan comprising a member of the Bhutan Chamber of Commerce, Bhutan export and import association, Indo-Bhutan friendship association and government officials earlier this week had visited the Dawki land customs station.

Bhutan has so far been exporting oranges, ginger and various other crops to Bangladesh through West Bengal. Bhutan has been producing on an average 100,000 tonnes of oranges annually.

India and Bhutan share a 643-km unfenced border while four northeastern states - Tripura, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Assam share a 1,880-km border with Bangladesh.

At the end of a three-day visit to India by Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina earlier this month, a joint communique by the two countries had said trucks from Bhutan and Nepal would be allowed to enter about 200 metres into Bangladesh at Banglabandh, a land customs station at Phulbari in West Bengal.

Bangladesh has been pressing India to provide a corridor through West Bengal to conduct trade with Bhutan and Nepal.

Observations From a Stranger in a Friendly Land

By Alex Howard

The Rev. Tezenlo (pronounced Deezenlow) Thong is a pleasant man in his early 40s. He is a native of Nagaland, a landlocked province in northeast India.

  He married the delightful Eunjung Han when he was a student in South Korea. They have one daughter (Soye, 12) who was born in Korea, one son (Yechan, 10) who was born in India, and another son (Nako, 4) who was born in the United States. It’s truly an international family.
 
“What is such an international family doing in Pueblo? Exercising Christian ministry, that’s what.

  Tezenlo is the pastor at Vineland United Methodist Church. And make no mistake about it: He and his family call Vineland home just as much as they call Nagaland, South Korea, India and the United States home.

  Because of the non-Indian members in this family, Indian laws prevent the Thongs from visiting Tezenlo’s homeland for more than 12 days at a time.   Why this is so is the subject for another day. Suffice it to say that Nagaland hasn’t always been a part of India, nor has it enjoyed native sovereignty since the British came in 1832 and left in 1947.

  Shortly after the British arrival, (as others like them have done elsewhere) missionaries came in and eliminated the native culture and replaced it with their version of civilization. That, too, is a subject for another day.

  Despite all the choices others would have made for him, Tezenlo chose to become a Methodist minister and wound up in the United States on a student visa. He has since completed his doctorate, taken the pulpit at Vineland UMC and converted his visa from “student” to “religious.”

  Everybody seems happy with that, apparently including the congregation who would be glad to have him stay here for as long as he chooses.

  What makes Tezenlo such a valuable asset to the community — and here I’m including the community of clergy with which he interacts on a weekly basis — is that he’s not stuck in the same frame of reference as the rest of us are.

  This gives us a better picture of what the world outside our narrow field of vision is about. It’s not that he has a revolutionary point of view so much as it is a refreshing one. He brings a perspective to the Gospel that we don’t have — in fact, a perspective that we couldn’t have because of our cultural molding.

  Most of us — including many of the readers of this newspaper — have so long been accustomed to the world in which we live that we have forgotten how privileged we are to enjoy complete freedom in the choices we make and how we exercise those freedoms.

  I’m not trying to get all mushy and uber-patriotic on you. I just want all of us to remember that our religious preference is just that: a preference.
  Whatever we choose, however we exercise our choice, even if it means choosing to opt out of a choice, it’s our choice.

  It isn’t always that way elsewhere on the big blue marble. Sometimes choices are made for you. Give thanks for what you’ve chosen. You’re lucky to be able to do so. Blessedly lucky.

Alex Howard is a recently retired Episcopal priest. He may be reached at veracruz@socolo.net

Paid News Menace in India

By Nava Thakuria

India has finally woken up to the menace of 'paid news' culture in the mainstream media. The practice that involves money in acquiring unethically media space by the beneficiaries remained an important issue in India for many years. But lately a number of influential media persons' organizations have shown their concern with the ill practice of journalism in the country. The practice of offering envelopes to reporters remained visible across Asian media and especially India and China for decades.

But lately the practice appears to be becoming institutionalized, not by poverty-stricken reporters but by the publishers themselves. It is alleged that many media houses in India irrespective of their volume of business have started selling news space after some understandings with the politicians and corporate people without disguising those items as advertisements. First it was a meet of South Asia Free Media Association (India chapter) in Mumbai during the first week of December, where the issue of paid news was officially discussed with serious concern.

Then came the annual general meeting of the Editors' Guild of India during the fourth week of December, where most of the members expressed concern at the growing tendency of a section of media groups (both print and visual) to receive money for some 'non-advertorial' items in their media space. The editors' guild sent a letter to each of its member-editors throughout the country asking for pledges that his/her 'publication/TV channel will not carry any paid news' as the practice 'violates and undermines the principles of free and fair journalism'.

The letter, signed by Rajdeep Sardesai and Coomi Kapoor, president and secretary general of the Guild respectively, expressed hope that 'the entire journalist fraternity would come together on this issue' and defend their credibility with public declarations on the subject in order to restore public trust. Indian media has been recognized as sensitive, patriotic and very much influential tool in the socio-political sphere since the days of freedom movement. The father of Indian nation Mahatma Gandhi initiated his movement with the moral power of active journalism. Today, India with its billion population supports nearly 70,000 registered newspapers and over 450 Television channels (including some 24x7 news channels).

The Indian media, as a whole, often plays the role of constructive opposition in the Parliament as well as in various Legislative Assemblies of the State. Journalists are, by and large, honored and accepted as the moral guide in the Indian society. While the newspapers in Europe and America are losing their readership annually, the Indian print media is still going stronger with huge circulation figure and market avenues. For the democratic India, the media continues to be acclaimed as the fourth important pillar after judiciary, parliament and bureaucratic set-up. But unfortunately a cancer in the form of paid news has been diagnosed with the Indian media in the recent past.

Millions of rupees have been reportedly been paid to media houses. Some veteran editor-journalists like Prabhash Joshi, the founding editor of the Hindi daily Jansatta, who died in November, and BG Verghese, previously the editor of both the Hindustan Times and Indian Express, warned the Press Council of India that paid news has already turned into a full-blown scandal. It is worth mentioning that the Mumbai SAFMA meeting had serious discussion and concern on the recent trend of commercialization of mainstream media, and degradation of media ethics and practices in the country.

All the speakers in the meeting of SAFMA (which is recognized by the SAARC), were unanimous that media in the entire region must come forward in a transparent way with maintaining public trust. Addressing the audience, eminent journalist and the rural affairs editor of The Hindu, P Sainath disclosed that that the corporatization of the media world had simply threatened the existence of free media. "Newspaper owners are greatly influenced by political clout," P Sainath, the rural affairs editor of The Hindu, warned another media group.

It was Sainath who raised the issue of paid news through his regular columns in The Hindu, urging the press council and election commission to take appropriate action. "The proprietors now grant space for vivid coverage for the benefit of their 'friendly politicians' in the newspapers," Sainath warned in his speech. "Furthermore, to entertain their growing demands, many media groups have even gone for arranging extra space (during election periods).

Let's finish the culture of paid news; otherwise it will finish us in the coming days." An official statement of the SAFMA meet, which was attended by many distinguished editor-journalists of India including K K Katyal, Satich Jacob, Kumar Ketkar (editor of Loksatta), Om Thanvi (editor of Jansatta), Vinod Sharma (political editor of Hindustan Times) etc, expressed serious concern at the growing trend of selling news space. "Recent assembly elections in Maharashtra and elsewhere revealed the spread of the pernicious practice of accepting money for giving editorial space to contestants. In fact, this evil had been perpetrated by institutionalizing it," according to a statement by the South Asian Free Media Association.

Meanwhile, the press council, a quasi-judicial body, has decided to investigate, establishing a committee to examine violations of the journalistic code of fair and objective reporting. The press council Chairman GN Ray, a retired justice, acknowledged that a section of Indian media had 'indulged in monetary deals with some politicians and candidates by publishing their views as news items and bringing out negative news items against rival candidates' during the last elections.' Even a documentary titled 'Advertorial: Selling News or Products?' was produced by an eminent media critic and academic Paranjoy Guha Thakurta for India's national broadcaster, Doordarshan.

It was telecast in last November. Guha Thakurta, a member of the press council investigative team said in an interview that the committee had received many complaints from the journalists that a large number of newspapers and television channels (in various languages) had been receiving money to provide news space (and even editorials) for the benefit of politicians. Speaking to this writer from New Delhi, Guha Thakurta claims that the paid news culture has finally violated the guidelines of the Election Commission (of India), which makes restriction in the expenditure of a candidate (for any Legislative Assembly or Parliamentary elections). "Amazingly, we have found that some newspapers even prepared rate cards for the candidates in the last few elections.

There are different rates for positive news coverage, interviews, editorials and also putting out damaging reports against the opponents," Guha Thakurta asserted. The Indian Election Commission recently asked the Press Council of India 'to define what constitutes paid political news', so it can adopt appropriate guidelines. During a December meeting, the elections body also directed the press council to 'formulate guidelines to the media house' to require that the money involved be incorporated in the political party and candidate expenditures.

Lately, the Guild had submitted a memorandum to the election commission expressing its grave concern over the paid news phenomenon. A delegation from the Guild, led by its president Rajdeep Sardesai met the election commission on January 22 and urged the chief election commissioner Navin Chawla to 'take strong action against both candidates and media persons who violate the disclosure norms of election expenditure in regard to media publicity.'

Rajdeep Sardesai, the editor's guild president and also the chief editor of the CNN-IBN television news channel, speaking to this writer, said that the Guild was 'deeply shocked and seriously concerned at the increasing number of reports detailing the pernicious practice of publishing paid news by some newspapers and television channels, especially during the recent elections'. "We strongly believe that the practice of putting out advertising as news is a grave journalistic malpractice. Moreover the trend threatens the foundation of journalism by eroding public faith in the credibility and impartiality of news reporting.

It also vitiated the poll process and prevented a fair election, since richer candidates who could pay for their publicity had a clear advantage," Sardesai added. While admitting the right of news media to go for advertisements in various occasions, Sardesai insisted that the 'media houses should distinguish the advertisements with full and proper disclosure norms, so that no reader and viewer is tricked by any subterfuge of advertisements published and broadcast in the same format, language and style of news'.

With the same notion, a Guwahati-based media observer H. Mahanta claims that many regional newspapers in Northeast India in effect sell favorable reporting for extra income. "You can find a number of examples in Guwahati, where the proprietors of the media houses had misused the media space for their individual benefits.

It is amazing how some newspapers change their point of views towards a politician or party suddenly after getting money (in cash or kinds)," Mahanta said. There are specific allegations that many journalists in Guwahati, who are among the lowest paid in India with starting salaries as little as US$50 a month, enjoy regular payments like monthly lump sum compensation from politicians in power. Licenses for wine shops are offered to reporters (and accepted happily by many) with the inherent understanding that they only write positive stories and if possible, kill negative reports against their politician-financers.

However, the newspapers of Assam still maintain ethical values in respect of editorial space, as those are not being utilized visibly for earning extra hard cash till now, observers say. But how long it will continue that remains a bigger question.

Nava Thakuria is a Guwahati, Northeast India based independent journalist and contributes to various media outlets throughout the world. Contact him at navathakuria@yahoo.com

Chopping To Mizoram Coming Soon

Aizawl, Jan 31 : Mizoram is planning to launch helicopter service in the near future, Mizoram Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla said yesterday. While inspecting the proposed mini-airport at Kawmzawl in Lunglei district in southern Mizoram, the Chief Minister disclosed that quotations had been floated, inviting companies to operate the chopper service.

The Chief Minister said the government felt a strong need for airport in southern Mizoram in a bid to add to the States lone airport in Aizawl, adding the area had been identified in this regard. The proposed airport will accommodate small aircraft like nine-seated Cessna Caravan 208 B or 18-seated Dornier.

As the proposed site was being used as a helipad and maintained by the 14 Assam Rifles, talks between the Chief Minister and the concerned authorities would be required for clearance.

“At least four years will be required for the completion of the airport,” he added. “Besides Kawmzawl, another airport has also been proposed at Saitluk, also near Lunglei. A survey will be conducted by experts led by principal consultant, Civil Aviation during this February,” he said.

The chief minister was accompanied by two ministers Zodintluanga and PC Lalthanliana, High Power Committee Vice-Chairman and MLA Jospeh Lalhimpuia and wing commander (Rtd) Lalzawma, principal consultant of civil aviation wing under the State Government and Liansanga, engineer-in-chief of Public Works Department of Mizoram.

Fan Shops Singer Zubeen's Ponytail!

Guwahati, Jan 31 : Fans are known to do crazy things. But Assam's singing sensation Zubeen Garg of "Ya Ali" fame was taken aback when he realized that a woman fan had stealthily chopped off his ponytail at a recording studio here.

The incident took place late Friday when Zubeen was busy dubbing an Assamese number at the DG Music Studio in Guwahati. "I suddenly found that my ponytail was missing and then found a woman fan of mine, who seems to be a little crazy, holding the lock of hair and shouting at me. What could I do?" Zubeen told journalists.

Friends and acquaintances later shoved the woman out of the studio. "The woman had on earlier occasions attended some of my functions and even danced on stage," Zubeen said. The singer is at his wit's end, and so are some of his friends and well wishers, as Zubeen is currently shooting an Assamese TV serial "Anuradha" where he is supposed to sport the ponytail.

"There are some sequences left for shooting and for continuity we need the ponytail. Without Zubeen's ponytail, the shooting would be incomplete. We have to find other ways to maintain the continuity in the serial," one of the make-up artists of the serial said.

The news of Zubeen's ponytail cut by a woman fan has spread like wild fire as he is considered the heartthrob of the young generation in Assam. "I got the news late Friday and immediately rushed to the studio to find out what happened and how Zubeen looked without the ponytail," said Zublee, a female co-singer who accompanies Zubeen in most of the stage shows.

Fortunately for Zubeen, he managed to get the lock of hair back from the woman. "Look at this ponytail. Maybe some people don't like me to wear a ponytail," Zubeen said in a jovial manner.

Assam CM Announces 3% Rise in Basic Pay of State Empoyees

Guwahati: The Assam Chief Minister, Mr. Tarun Gogoi has decided to grant annual increment to the State Government employees at the rate of 3% of basic pay with retrospective effect. He said, the revised pay will be fixed notionally with effect from 1stJanuary, 2006 and there shall be no increment based on performance.

The Chief Minister further decided that the house rent allowance will be given at the rate of 15% of basic pay in Guwahati city, 12% in District and Sub-divisional Headquarters and 10% in all other places in Assam without any distinction between rented house and own house.

Mr Gogoi has also enhanced today the fixed pay of the casual and adhoc employees from 3000 to 4500 rupees per month. He directed the Finance Department to take expeditious action in this regard.

Indian Boxers Ready For Asian Meet

By Nitin Sharma

New Delhi, Jan 30 : When Nanao Singh lands in the Chinese city of Guangzhou on Saturday morning, the only thing on the mind of the 19-year-old from Manipur will be to better his silver-winning feat at the Asian Boxing Championship last year.

Nanao had lost 9-8 to Pongprayoon Keaw of Thailand in the final bout there. He’ll get a chance to better that in the Champion of Champions event, which will see the participation of the top four Asian boxers in each category.

“At the Asian championship, I lost out by a point and I am looking to avenge that loss. Countries like Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Mongolia will send their best boxers to this tournament,” said Nanao.

With only Asia’s top four boxers forming each weight category, the format will be of a direct semi-final. Each winner will get $3,000, apart from adding him ranking points for the World Series of Boxing.

Apart from Nanao (48 kg), the Indian team will have Beijing Olympic bronze medalist Vijender Singh (75 kg), Akhil Kumar (57 kg) and Dinesh Kumar (81 kg).

“I have not taken part in an international championship after I injured my wrist, so this is a big platform. The format is not too hectic either. This will give me a chance to reach my peak before the Commonwealth Boxing Championship,” said Akhil, who has been away since the world championship in September last year.

It is also the first time Vijender is taking part in an international event after his bronze at the worlds.

Honor For Film on Army Act

Director baffled by Centre’s ‘double standards’ on draconian law

By Khelen Thokchom

A still from AFSPA 1958

Imphal, Jan 30 : When AFSPA 1958 was adjudged the best film in the non-feature category at the 56th National Awards in New Delhi last weekend, director Haobam Paban Kumar was more surprised than overjoyed.

Not because his film lacks in quality or is in any way undeserving of such honor, having already bagged six international awards. What has baffled Paban Kumar was the fact that the Centre, which has refused to scrap the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958, has decided to honor a film that depicts the legislation as draconian.

The film selected from among 99 non-feature film entries. “I never thought that the film would bag a national award. The film depicts the army act as draconian and it is quite surprising that the information and broadcasting ministry selected a film dealing with the subject for the honor. The Centre has refused to scrap the act, despite violent agitation in the state,” Kumar said.

The film is based on the mass uprising against the army act and the brutal crackdown by armed forces on the protesters. The uproar over the legislation was triggered by the custodial killing of Thangjam Manorama Devi by troops of the Assam Rifles in July 2004.

The film is a collection of visuals shot by Bachaspatimayum Sunzu, an electronic media journalist of Manipur. Sunzu and Kumar, an alumni of the Satyajit Ray Film and Television Institute in Calcutta, teamed up to do wonders.

The award has taken everyone in Manipur, from filmmakers to rights activists, by utter surprise.

“The decision of the information ministry shows contradictory policies of the Centre. The selection is based on the recognition of the fact that the people of Manipur continue to suffer under the act. On the other hand, the home ministry, the defense ministry and the Prime Minister’s Office still favor continued enforcement of the legislation, which is an irony,” Sunzu said.

Reacting to the announcement, Babloo Loitongbam, the executive director of Human Rights Alert, Manipur, renewed the group’s demand that the Centre should repeal the act. “The world is behind Irom Sharmila and the Centre is ignoring her struggle,” he added.

Sharmila, who has been fasting since November 2000, demanding repeal of the act, was not available for comment.

Her elder brother, Irom Singhajit said if the Centre was honest and sincere, the act should be repealed. “I believe they selected the film for the award because the sufferings of the people shown by the film were real. The Centre should stop playing games with people living in the border areas and scrap the act,” Singhajit, who is the managing trustee of Just Peace Foundation, a group working for human rights, said.

Mizoram Wants Decent School Dress Code

By Rahul Karmakar

Aizawl, Jan 29 : Trendy Mizoram has had enough of teen skin show. And for a change, the call for a decent dress code in educational institutions isn’t meant for girls only.

Mizo Zirlai Pawl (MZP), the northeastern State’s potent students’ body, has formally asked the government to fix a design code for schools and colleges across Mizoram. The idea is to discourage girls from wearing leg-baring mini skirts and boys from donning underwear-exposing low-waist pants.

“Skin-showing dresses made fashionable by rappers and rock stars find their way to Mizoram almost instantly.

Even school children catch on to atrocious styles, going to the extent of tweaking their uniforms,” MZP president VL Krosshnehzova told Hindustan Times from State capital Aizawl.

“We have submitted a formal request to School Education Minister Lalsawta seeking the government’s help in fixing a design code for uniforms in educational institutes across Mizoram,” he added.

Lalsawta, who left for New Delhi, could not be contacted.

The church in predominantly Christian Mizoram feels MZP has a point. “Fashion may be a way of expressing oneself, but traditional values of modesty should also be upheld. We are happy the students themselves have realized this,” said Stephen Rotluanga, Bishop of Aizawl Diocese.

Other priests hole the dress code would also have a positive impact on the ‘cult madness’ in Mizoram. The state has at least 95 Christian cults, some espousing polygamy, others idolizing Satan and others specializing in grave digging and conducting ‘pagan rites’ with skulls.

Assam Govt Employees To Get Enhanced Increment

Guwahati, Jan 29 : Assam government employees will receive enhanced annual increment with retrospective benefit and house rent irrespective of rented or own house, while the fixed pay of casual and ad hoc employees has been raised.

Chief minister Tarun Gogoi today decided to grant an annual increment of three per cent of basic pay to the government employees notionally fixed with retrospective effect from January 1, 2006.

There shall, however, be no increment based on performance, officials said quoting Gogoi.

House rent allowance will be at the rate of 15 per cent of basic pay in Guwahati, 12 per cent in district and sub divisional headquarters and 10 per cent in all other places in the state without any distinction between rented and own house.

The chief minister also enhanced the fixed pay of casual and ad hoc employees from Rs 3000 to Rs 4500 per month.

Gouache Paintings Like Never Before

Kazuki Takamatsu is putting an entirely new face on gouache, a type of watercolor paint (only slightly thicker). The paintings, I should stress, are simply unbelievable—most don’t even realize that they aren’t just another CGI. There has been a fair debate over whether Takamatsu uses 3d renderings on which to base his paintings, but the paintings themselves are, believe it or not, just gouache.





Full gallery of the Takamatsu images through the link.

A Simple Paint of Tiger

Craig Tracy is hands-down one of the best body painters in the world. At first glance, this piece looks like a simple painting of a tiger. Look a little closer, and you'll notice that the tiger's face is actually painted on the back of three separate women.





 

All Pictures Belong To Their respective Owners

NATRiP to Set up Mechanic Training Institute

Also in process of setting up six homologation centers for automobiles across India

New Delhi, Jan 29 : As the Centre is mulling the implementation periodic inspection & maintenance (I&M) for all automobiles by government certified mechanics across the country mandatory by early 2011, the National Automotive Testing and R&D Infrastructure Project (NATRiP which is under the ministry of heavy industries) is now in the process of setting up a mechanic training school in Jaffirbond in Assam that will be operational by May this year.

The NATRiP project of setting up six homologation centers for automobiles across the country at an estimated cost of Rs 1800 crore is also on track.

"There will be a demand for such certified mechanics who can conduct the I&M operations for all vehicles from commercial vehicles to passenger cars. The institute will be able to train 100 to 150 students per year for a one-year full training course. It will also offer refresher courses for those currently working in the industry.", said Ranojoy Mukerji, NATRiP, Advisor (corporate communications). He added that the Centre is likely to implement stringent rules for I&M by early next year that will include annual check ups for all commercial vehicles together with once in 15 years inspection for cars, and subsequently once in every five years.

"We are also thinking of certifying certain garages across the country who will be authorized to run these routine checks for the government.", Mukerji said. A drivers' training institute has also been started at Dholchora near Silchar in Assam. The net investment on both these training institutes has been around Rs 63 crore.

NATRiP is also in the process of setting up six homologation centers across the country for testing automobiles. Of the six, the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) in Pune, the Vehicles Research and Development Establishment (VRDE), Ahmednagar and the International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT) , Manesar are already operational. Another two are planned at Chennai and Assam.

While the entire project is estimated to be completed by September 2011, the testing track for high speed vehicles at the Indore centre would be operational by 2012. "While the net project cost was initially pegged at Rs 1718 crore, it has now escalated to Rs 1800 crore owing to foreign exchange fluctuations.", Mukerji told Business Standard.

The project aims at creating core global competencies in automotive sector in India.

3 Day Northeast Speakers' Summit Begins

Shillong, Jan 29 :  The conference of the Northeast Region Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (NERCPA) began here Friday to discuss ways and means to strengthen functioning of the legislative assemblies in the eight states.

Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar inaugurated the three-day 12th conference of the NERCPA.

Speakers, deputy speakers and some selected legislators of all eight states are taking part.

"The crucial summit will discuss the plan to make functioning of the state legislative houses more useful and to increase the number of sessions of all the state assemblies," Meghalaya Speaker Charles Pyngrope told reporters just before the beginning of the conference.

"The speakers' meet would also deliberate on the socio-economic development in this insurgency-plagued region."

According to Pyngrope, the Manipur assembly committee led by Speaker S. Budhichandra would present a status-paper on the ground situation in the insurgency ravaged state and the impact of terrorism on the socio-economic sector.

The status report is expected to incorporate the spate of kidnaps by militants, serving notices to officials and businessmen demanding huge protection money, attacking houses with bombs, the living condition of common people and delay in development schemes and projects in Manipur due to militancy.

"The recommendations of the conference will be submitted to the centre as well as the respective state governments," the Meghalaya speaker said.

‘Sadbhavana Tour’ Brings Mizo Students to Bangalore

Bangalore, Jan 29 : As part of the ‘Sadbhavana tour,’ students from Mizoram under the aegis of the Mizoram Range Assam Rifles organized by 4 Assam Rifles met Governor HR Bharadwaj on Thursday.

Appreciating the objective of the tour, Bharadwaj said, “Tours like this should be encouraged to eliminate the feeling of isolation that the people from northeastern states sometimes experience.” School children aged between 14-18 years from all districts of Mizoram interacted with the governor.

They will be in the city till January 30.

The students were thrilled with the experience, as many of them have stepped out of Mizoram for the first time. The students will be travelling to Thiruvananthapuram and Chennai.

The tour was organized in an effort to enhance awareness about different parts of the country and thereby reinforce national integration.

One of the officers accompanying the students said, “The tour will give exposure to the youngsters regarding our country’s diverse culture, scientific and technological advancement and will incorporate the feeling of oneness and belonging in them.”  

Power Shortage in Manipur: Hope Floats on Projects in Assam, Tripura

Imphal, Jan 29 : Faced with shortage of power perpetually, Manipur is keeping alive its hope of solving the problem once the two power projects being constructed at Bongaigaon in Assam and Pallatana in Tripura are commissioned and gets its share of around 90 megawatt.

According to an official source, the thermal power project being constructed at Bongaigaon would have a generating capacity of 750 megawatt.
On the basis of the respective share of power due to be received by each of the Northeastern States, Manipur hopes that it would get around 47 megawatt.

While from the Pallatana JB Power Project in Tripura, the State expects to receive around 43 megawatt as its power share.

Thus, from these two power projects which are being targeted to be commissioned 2011, Manipur looks forward to receiving around 90 megawatt to solve its perpetual problem of power shortage, the source said.

Over and above this, Manipur is also expected to receive its power share from the 600 megawatt generating capacity Kameng Hydro Electric Power Project and the 2000 megawatt generating capacity Lower Subansari Hydro Electric Power Project, the source informed, adding that with that there would be a great change in the scenario of power transmission and generation of Manipur by 2011 .

Receiving just around 31.6 megawatt as against the actual requirement of 80 megawatt during the peak hour, Manipur has been facing perpetual shortage of power.

But by 2011, this may become a thing of the past, the source reiterated.

The source further said that in view of the prospect of receiving around 90 megawatt from the power projects at Bongaigaon and Pallatana, there would be the need for upgrading the existing Silchar-Imphal 132 KV D/C line and 132 KV PGCI sub-station at Yurembam to 400 KV D/C line and 400 KV sub-station respectively.

Though around 25.4 acres of land required for the up gradation of the sub-station at Yurembam to 400 KV substation have already been acquired by the State Government long ago, the acquired land has not yet been handed over to PGCI.

Along with the acquisition of the land, the rate of the land compensation to be given is also to be worked out by the State Government and handed over to PGCI.

But all these have not been submitted till date, the source disclosed.

Without completing the necessary process for upgradation of 132 KV D/C Line and 132 KV sub-station in time before the target commission of the two power projects at Bongaigaon and Pallatana by 2011, the expected power share of around 90 megawatt that Manipur is looking forward to from the power projects may not be able to enjoy.

via The Sangai Express

Education of Children in Manipur

By Mimi K. Insi

Raising children to prepare them to master on the road to becoming a successful member of the future society is the responsibility of the parents and teachers is no doubt, generally accepted. Contributions of governments and communities to education of children , of course, is a must.

As we know that academics are important. Children need encouragement to pursue their dreams and it is the dream of every parent to see their children grow up well and become a perfect person of the society.

When an observation is made on present condition of education of children in Manipur, a large amount of efforts seems to be required to put in from the teachers and parents in upbringing children to be a good citizen of future world but it is surprising that parents and teachers are not even well acquainted each other.

We feel that this communication gap needs to be bridged up to build a better link between them and any serious problem related with children’s studies can be solved easily. Parents’ optimum involvement and active participation in children’s studies is very essential.

I believe children will be happy to know that their parents care about their studies. Their maximum involvement in learning activities makes much difference to children. Paying regular attention to their studies helps them get good attendance, do homework assignment properly, show positive attitude towards school, good behavior and show excellent performance in their academics.

Children’s academic success is more intimately related to parents’ efforts. Often, parents need to check their children’s strengths and weaknesses in all areas of the curriculum and whether their child socializes with other children or not.

In this regard, school needs to design more effective forms of communication to reach parents. Parents-teachers meeting and seminars on effective educational development programs can be conducted twice a year in the school campus. Views and opinions about education of children can be shared and exchanged. Suggestions from parents must be welcomed.

The time limit for each parent at the meeting can be about 10 to 15 minutes long. School personnel can be sent to deal with family issues when the serious matters come up in students. In this way a healthy bond between parents and school can be formed. Unluckily, such things are rarely seen in our schools in Manipur especially in government schools.

Most schools never experience what parents- teachers meeting is like. Most of the time parents are invisible. Only a few active parents who are really concerned about their children’s studies observe them at home and help teachers in the school. Children are like clay in potter’s hands. They can be molded into the desired shape the parents’ wish.

Every step of the child needs to be supervised. They have to be handled with great care. It is necessary for the parents to maintain a healthy atmosphere at home during the early year of the children. If the parents are not readily available when the child needs them, this creates insecurity in him/her.

In my school, the class performance of a student in grade-IX was not up to the grade level all the time. When he was asked why he didn’t concentrate on his studies and didn’t do the homework everyday, he answered sadly that- he stayed with his maid all the time and parents went to work in the morning and came back at night at 9 P.M.

Parents didn’t have the time to be with him. What will he learn from the maid? When he needs them, they are not there. This has led to the distancing of the parents and the children. We realized that it was not his fault. It was not the material comforts he expects from his parents but the love, affection and care that every child needs from the parents. He felt being unloved.

Because of the lack of parent’s care and supervision the child was not motivated to learn any lesson in the school. There are so many cases like this happening so often especially in metropolitan cities where the career oriented women work leaving their children under the care of their maid servant. So, it is the duty of teacher to find out why the child is lagging behind others and then inform the parents.

There are many causes of students dropping out of school. We need to bring the solution to the cause by building a strong partnership with communities groups. We all know that the major impact of the drop out rate is a rise in crime that leads to insecurity of public life and uncertain future of individuals. As we already have witnessed our society being plagued by terrorism. This is the major consequence. Such malady can be minimized when the parents and teachers are prepared to enter a process of partnership in children’s learning affairs.

Teachers can provide ideas and assistance to parents on how to help a child at home. Parents need to help the child do homework and repeat the work done in the class as a part of practice so that the child does not need to take extra tuition. At the same time child will feel being loved and cared .

All the teachers need to respond to the feelings and needs of the parents of children with disabilities. Children who are from low socio-economic status must be assisted by the school to overcome the obstacles and serious family issues faced by them. Government should give the financial assistance to the students who are from low socio economic status.

If any extra behavioral problem is encountered in any child, he/ she should not be ignored and should be taken to mentor or counselor with the cooperation of the parents. Mentoring program is also a good that many students can benefit from it. We have this program in my school too.

Every month this program is conducted. Teachers can provide information about the child’s areas of weakness in studies to parents so that the child can put in more efforts for better results with the help of parents. This can be done through personal meeting with the parents, by phone or writing a note in the child’s school diary. Students need to carry school diary everyday when they come to school because it helps them keep their time table and note down school homework. Teachers can write the important message to the parents.

This is an essential part of the school. Diary should include yearly calendar and dates of school events. School should provide this to the students. Most of the government schools don’t introduce it yet to the students. Since library is a place for education and self help, all the students should take full advantage of opportunities available at libraries.

Library period should include in the school programs of teaching in schools in Manipur. For the primary level, Class teacher needs to take the students to the library during the library periods. The teacher-librarian known as information expert will guide them and educate them about the importance of information literacy so that children can become information literate to live successfully in today’s information society.

In every locality, there needs to be a library so that local children can use the library on weekends and after school. It was an unwise act to burn the Manipur central library three years back by some people. Might be they forgot that, that is the place where the opportunity is available to all to make us become information smart people in this information age.

Besides having libraries, we need to have many extra curricular activities clubs. Children can join the activity they want after school or on weekends. The activity clubs can be run by private groups and government.

Teens loitering on the streets, in the bazaar and lanes can be given opportunities to engage to extracurricular activities because extra activities help students to make their own decisions and gain experience in a variety of areas that will enhance their future.

Moreover, it gives them opportunity to discover their hidden talents. Every society needs to shoulder the responsibility of providing a pleasant environment to the students.

Society needs to ensure that every child has access to a quality education. Sinful and dirty hands of politicians should be stopped from trying to push down the innocent children into the dark world.

Law to Bar Hospitals From Turning Away Emergencies

New Delhi, Jan 29 : The cabinet Thursday approved path-breaking legislation making it mandatory for doctors, hospitals and other medical establishments to treat victims of road accidents and other emergencies and not turn away patients on specious pleas, official sources said.

The legislation ‘makes it mandatory to provide, stabilize and treat emergency medical conditions’, official sources said of The Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Bill, 2010, that the cabinet cleared at a meeting presided over by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

Once parliament passes the bill, doctors and hospitals will not be able to turn away victims of road accidents and other emergencies on the plea that these are ‘medico-legal cases’ which they are not authorized to treat, the sources pointed out.

The bill will apply to all clinical establishments, including those with a single doctor and without any beds, the sources added.

‘The main purpose of the law is to provide a legislative framework for the registration and regulation of clinical establishments in the country and also to improve the quality of health services through the National Council for Standards by prescribing minimum standards of facilities and services which may be provided by them,’ Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni told reporters after the cabinet meeting.

‘This would permit categorization and classification of different clinical establishments depending on their geographical location as well as services offered. It will also initiate the process for the creation of a national registry of clinical establishments existing in the country,’ she added.

‘The bill will ensure elimination of fraudulent practices or taking patients for a ride,’ Soni said.

The bill, which will apply to all systems of medicine, including allopathy and AYUSH, is likely to be tabled in the budget session of parliament beginning Feb 22. It, however, doesn’t apply to the Armed Forces Medical Service ’since they have their own set patterns in place’, the sources said.

Once approved by parliament, the bill will be initially applicable in Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Sikkim and all the union territories.

‘It is expected that other states would also adopt this legislation,’ Soni said.

It was pointed out that while some states, among them Maharashtra, Orissa, Manipur, Andhra Pradesh, Nagaland, Punjab and Delhi, had passed similar legislation, ‘there was much to be desired by way of implementation.

‘Stake-holders also pointed to the need for national levels of standards and hence this bill,’ official sources said.

The bill, which the cabinet initially approved in June 2007, was tabled in parliament in August of that year and referred to the standing committee on health. The committee made 60 recommendations, of which 36 have been incorporated in the bill.

Mizoram Rail Track Project in Full Swing

Aizawl, Jan 29 : Railway extension work from Bairabi to Sairang is in full swing, said Zasanga today who is the chairman of Mizoram state level task force on National Railway Project.

"Though the survey is going on in full speed, but it is impossible to say when it will be finished", said Zasanga who is a retired IPS officer. Central government has entrusted RITES company in the survey purpose. Due to hilly and rugged region with dense forest, survey for the railway track cannot be expedited as planned, he rued.

The project chairman while thanking the people’s co-operation in surveying railway track said, "Villagers came out with enthusiasm to help us navigate the best suitable route which will be used as permanent rail track in future and also pleased to see that villagers from Sairang and its adjoining areas are willing to work in the survey department".

Earlier, due to various opposition from NGOs and individuals with regards to the extension of railway track up to Sairang had created unfavorable speculation in Mizoram saying that if railway is extended up to Sairang, the Mizos will be assimilated by the people from mainland India. They are also of the belief that sooner or later, business establishments, trade and others will be dominated by the outsiders as a result of railway extension.

Rubbishing the critics over the issue, Mizoram chief minister Lal Thanhawla had said that no nation or tribe has ever been assimilated due to construction of railways. He said railway network would not only bring commodities at lower prices, it would be most useful for export of the agriculture and horticulture products from the state that would benefit the farmers.

As the state is rich in natural resources like oil and natural gas, railways would be the most important for exploration and transportation of the mineral wealth, Lal Thanhawla added.

Sairang is just 20 kms away from the state capital Aizawl. Railway project has been started since 1997 but due to several reasons the project could not be constructed till now. Altogether Rs. 519.34 crores has been sanctioned by the Railway Board for this project. The new track will be of 51 kms with 16 tunnels.

Via Newmai News Network

Assam Police Waiting For Details of Boys Rescued in Tamil Nadu

By Sushanta Talukdar

Guwahati, Jan 29 : The Criminal Investigation Department (CID) of the Assam Police is trying to get details about the 22 Assam boys, who were rescued, along with 54 others belonging to Manipur, by the Tamil Nadu police in Chennai and Kanyakumari.

Inspector General of Police (IGP), CID and the State nodal officer for anti-trafficking Mukesh Sahay told The Hindu that he was trying to get in touch with Tamil Nadu CID officials. “The first level investigation will be done by the Tamil Nadu CID and we hope to get the preliminary information from them within the next two to three days,” he said.

Two Delhi-based NGOs — Shakti Vahini and Vikalp Dhara — that is fighting the trafficking menace have demanded a thorough inquiry into cases of trafficking from the northeastern States.

Following the rescue of the boys, they wrote to N.S. Kalsi, Joint Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs, on Wednesday drawing his attention to the increase in trafficking from the northeast.

They pointed out that the Tamil Nadu rescue was not an isolated case.

“Trafficking from north-east India and the eastern Himalaya region is continuously on the rise and needs a detailed investigation,” wrote Ravi Kant, president, Shakti Vahini.

The letter also said media reports might indicate the tip of the iceberg and in all probability organized gangs had begun operating to traffick in women and children.

Shakti Vahini alleged that the Assam government had not realized the gravity of the situation as could be gauged from the fact there was no official response from the State. Ideally, the Assam government should have immediately rushed a team to Tamil Nadu for the safe repatriation of the rescued children in cooperation with the Tamil Nadu government, it said.