Tag: National

New Delhi , Mar 15 (ANI): With the Trinamool Congress (TMC) mounting pressure on the UPA-II Government to remove Dinesh Trivedi as Railway Minister, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Rajnath Singh on Thursday asked Prime Minister Dr. Manohan Singh to come forward and give an explanation over the ongoing crisis.
“The government has been continuously facing trouble, but the issue was raised by our Leader of Opposition, Sushma Swaraj, because a constitutional crisis has developed and the Prime Minister should come forward and give an explanation on whether he has received a letter from the chief of TMC or not,” said Singh.”And if yes, then what has been done and what decision has been taken by the Prime Minister in regard to Railway Minister Dinesh Trivedi,” he added.
Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav asked the government to resolve the issue soon.
“An unprecedented situation has been created in Indian politics. The budget is of the government; the rise and decrease of fares is a separate issue, which we have criticized. This is a shocking situation,” said Yadav.
“If a person gives a letter, that means he has resigned, this is a first of its kind incident in Indian history. The government will have to settle the matter fast,” he added.
Alvi, however, cleared the government stand, and said the rail budget has been moved in Parliament and the House will decide upon it.
“This is the government’s budget and has been presented in the Parliament, and now, Parliament will decide whether the budget is approved or disapproved or amendments are moved in,” said Alvi.”This is a baseless question. Trivediji is presently the railway minister and raising any kind of speculations at this time is wrong,” he added, when asked whether Trivedi will retain his position.
When asked to comment on West Bengal Chief Minister and Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief Mamata Banerjee’s letter to the Prime Minister, Alvi said this is an internal matter of the government, which should not be discussed outside.
“This is a coalition government and the Trinamool Congress is our partner in the government and this is an internal matter of the UPA. So, it cannot be discussed outside,” he said.
The demand for the sacking of Dinesh Trivedi was in response to his decision to hike passenger fares without consulting Mamata Banerjee or the TMC leadership. The latter felt that the measure was an anti-poor step.Trivedi has, however, said that no one had asked him to resign.
Trivedi had in his maiden Railway Budget proposed a hike of one paise per km for suburban and ordinary second-class travel. He also called for a fare increase for mail express and second class trains at three paisa per km; for sleeper class five paisa per km; for AC chair car.
, AC 3 tier and First Class by 10 paise per km; AC 2 Tier 15 paise per km; and AC I 30 paise per km.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/bjp-seeks-explanation-from-pm-on-trivedi-resignation-issue/

New Delhi/Dehradun, Mar 14 (ANI): Congress Party on Wednesday defended its decision to select Vijay Bahuguna as Uttarakhand Chief Minister instead of senior leader Harish Rawat, saying there is no difference within the party and the matter will be solved after due consultations.
Terming the ongoing row over the appointment of Bahuguna as hype created by the media, Congress spokesperson Rashid Alvi said: “There is no difference within the party of any kind. This is an internal matter of the party. It is not necessary for the MLAs to be present there. It never happens that all the MLAs are present during the swearing-in-ceremony of the chief minister. This is media hype. The matter will be solved after due consultations within the party.
“I assure you everything will be normal. Vijay Bahugunaji is the new chief minister of Uttarakhand, he has taken the oath of office. The party is committed to solve the problems the people of the state faced in the last five years,” he added.
Alvi further said Harish Rawat will surely attend the Parliament session.
“There is no rebellion within the party. This is media hype. He (Harish Rawat) will surely come to the Parliament,” he said.
Meanwhile, Rawat, the Congress MP from Haridwar and Minister in the union Government, appeared to be deeply hurt for not being given the top post in Uttarakhand, and said that he always believed in the party.
“I would not say anything. Party is also important and I always believed in the party. It’s been so many years since I’m working for Congress,” said Rawat.
Harish Rawat, who was seen as a frontrunner for the Uttarakhand chief minister’s post, had earlier offered to resign from the cabinet following Bahuguna’s selection for the top post.
Rawat sent his resignation to Manmohan Singh. He had also written to Congress President Sonia Gandhi, saying that he would prefer to work as a party worker. In the 70-member Assembly, Congress had emerged as the largest party with 32 MLAs and has the support of three independent MLAs and one from UKD. The Bahujan Samaj Party, having strength of three members, has pledged its unconditional support to Congress, raising its tally to 39.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/bahugunas-appointment-as-u-khand-cm-sparks-row-congress-says-all-is-well/

New Delhi/Dehradun, Mar 14 (ANI): Congress Party on Wednesday defended its decision to select Vijay Bahuguna as Uttarakhand Chief Minister instead of senior leader Harish Rawat, saying there is no difference within the party and the matter will be solved after due consultations.
Terming the ongoing row over the appointment of Bahuguna as hype created by the media, Congress spokesperson Rashid Alvi said: “There is no difference within the party of any kind. This is an internal matter of the party. It is not necessary for the MLAs to be present there. It never happens that all the MLAs are present during the swearing-in-ceremony of the chief minister. This is media hype. The matter will be solved after due consultations within the party.
“I assure you everything will be normal. Vijay Bahugunaji is the new chief minister of Uttarakhand, he has taken the oath of office. The party is committed to solve the problems the people of the state faced in the last five years,” he added.
Alvi further said Harish Rawat will surely attend the Parliament session.
“There is no rebellion within the party. This is media hype. He (Harish Rawat) will surely come to the Parliament,” he said.
Meanwhile, Rawat, the Congress MP from Haridwar and Minister in the union Government, appeared to be deeply hurt for not being given the top post in Uttarakhand, and said that he always believed in the party.
“I would not say anything. Party is also important and I always believed in the party. It’s been so many years since I’m working for Congress,” said Rawat.
Harish Rawat, who was seen as a frontrunner for the Uttarakhand chief minister’s post, had earlier offered to resign from the cabinet following Bahuguna’s selection for the top post.
Rawat sent his resignation to Manmohan Singh. He had also written to Congress President Sonia Gandhi, saying that he would prefer to work as a party worker. In the 70-member Assembly, Congress had emerged as the largest party with 32 MLAs and has the support of three independent MLAs and one from UKD. The Bahujan Samaj Party, having strength of three members, has pledged its unconditional support to Congress, raising its tally to 39.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/bahugunas-appointment-as-u-khand-cm-sparks-row-congress-says-all-is-well/

Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) stalwart Parkash Singh Badal was sworn-in as the chief minister of Punjab for a record fifth time on Wednesday.
Punjab Governor Shivraj V. Patil administered the oath of office to Badal at the historic Chapar Chiri Banda Bahadur Memorial in Fatehgarh Sahab District. Eighty-five-year-old Badal, who led the SAD-BJP combine to a thumping win in the Punjab assembly polls, had earlier headed two full five-year terms from 1997 and 2007. His other terms were in 1977-1980 and 1970-71. The SAD-BJP combine returned to power by defying the expected anti-incumbency factor.
The SAD-BJP combine won 68 of the 117 seats with the SAD securing 56 seats and the BJP 12 seats. The Congress won 46 seats, while others won three.
Badal entered politics in 1947 and was first elected to the Punjab Vidhan Sabha in 1957. He was re-elected in 1969 serving as Minister for Community Development, Panchayati Raj, Animal Husbandry,

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/parkash-singh-badal-takes-oath-as-punjab-cm/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, Mar 14 : The number of Broadband connections provided by the end of December 2011 are 13.35 million. As per the objectives contained in draft National Telecom Policy 2012, it is proposed to
Provide affordable and reliable broadband on demand by the year 2015 and to achieve 175 million broadband connections by the year 2017 and 600 million by the year 2020 at minimum 2 Mbps download speed and making available higher speeds of at least 100 Mbps on demand.
Following schemes being implemented under Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF), will further increase the broadband internet penetration in rural areas:
BSNL will provide 8, 88,832 wire-line Broadband connections to individual users and Government Institutions over a period of 5-years in this scheme.
As on February 2012, a total of 3,54,595
broadband connections have been provided.
a) “Optical Fibre Network Augmentation, Creation and Management of Intra-District SDHQ-DHQ OFC Network in ASSAM”
This OFC Scheme would connect 354 locations in 27 Districts of Assam within 18 months from 12/2/2010. As of February 2012, about 177 nodes have been installed.
b) “Optical Fibre Network Augmentation, Creation and Management of Intra-District SDHQ-DHQ OFC Network in NE-I Circle (comprising states of Meghalaya, Mizoram & Tripura),”
The States of Meghalaya, Mizoram & Tripura have been taken up for OFC augmentation in this scheme. This OFC Scheme would connect 188 locations in 19 Districts within 24 months from the
date of signing of the Agreement.
c) “Optical Fibre Network Augmentation, Creation and Management of Intra-District SDHQ-DHQ OFC Network in NE-II Circle (comprising states of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur & Nagaland),”
The States of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur & Nagaland have been taken up for OFC augmentation in this scheme. This OFC Scheme would connect 407 locations in 30 Districts within 30 months from the date of signing of the Agreement.
The scheme of National Optical Fiber Network (NOFN) is being implemented, for providing Broadband connectivity to Panchayats. The objective is to extend the existing optical fiber network to
Panchayats by utilizing the Universal Services Obligation Fund (USOF).
This information was given in Lok Sabha today by Shri Milind Deora, the Minister of State, Communication and Information Technology in response to a question.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/internet-broadband-facilities/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, Mar 14 : Many women CPI (Maoist) cadres of Odisha, Maharashtra, Bihar, Jharkhand and other States, who have surrendered, have disclosed several instances of sexual exploitation in Maoist camps. Such
instances of sexual exploitation include rape, forced marriage and molestation by senior male CPI (Maoist) cadres. Recently in Chhattisgarh, some surrendered CPI (Maoist) male cadres disclosed
that they were forced by the senior leadership to undergo vasectomy operation as a pre-condition for marriage with women cadres.
During an operation launched by the Border Security Force (BSF) in January, 2012 at a naxal hideout in Niliguda forest, PS Podia, District Malakangiri, Odisha, a large number of pregnancy test
kits, condoms, contraceptive pills, etc. were recovered. Such recoveries have also been made in other States. There are allegations that women cadres of CPI (Maoist), who become pregnant, are forced to undergo abortion against their will. The surrendered women cadres have also disclosed that even if they are married to male cadres, they are not allowed to give birth to children since the senior leadership of CPI (Maoist) feel that it impairs their fighting capability and mobility.
This problem has to be seen in the overall context of LWE menace.
This was stated by Shri Jitendra Singh, Minister of State of Home Affairs in a statement laid in the Rajya Sabha today. Police and public order being State subjects, action with regard to the law and order lies primarily in the domain of State Governments concerned. However, the Central Government closely monitors the situation and supplements the efforts of State Governments over a wide range of issues, both on security and development fronts. This includes deployment of Central Armed Police Forces
(CAPFs), help to State Governments towards capacity building of State Forces and implementation of wide range of development schemes in Left Wing Extremism (LWE ) affected States. The State Governments initiate legal action when they receive complaints of sexual exploitation of women Maoist cadres, under the relevant provisions of law.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/sexual-exploitation-in-naxalite-camps/

Passenger fares increased marginally. The increase will be by 2 paise per km for suburban and ordinary second class; 3 paise per km for mail/express second class; 5 paise per km for sleeper class; 10 paise per km for AC Chair Car, AC 3 tier and First Class; 15 paise per km for AC 2 tier and 30 paise per km for AC I.
Minimum fare and platform tickets to cost Rs. 5.
50% concession in fare in AC-2, AC-3, Chair Car & Sleeper classes to patients suffering from ‘Aplastic Anaemia’ and ‘Sickle Cell Anaemia’.
Extending the facility of travel by Rajdhani and Shatabdi trains to Arjuna Awardees.
Travel distance under ‘Izzat Scheme’ to increase from 100 kms to 150 kms.
SMS on passenger mobile phone in case of e-ticket to be accepted as proof of valid reservation.
Introduction of satellite based real time train information system (SIMRAN) to provide train running information to passengers through SMS, internet, etc.
On board passenger displays indicating next halt station and expected arrival time to be introduced.
Installation of 321 escalators at important stations of which 50 will be commissioned in 2012-13.
Introduction of regional cuisine at affordable rates; launching of Book-a-meal scheme to provide multiple choice of meals through SMS or email.
Introduction of coin/currency operated ticket vending machines.
Upgradation of 929 stations as Adarsh Stations including 84 stations proposed in 2012-13; 490 stations have been completed so far.
Specially designed coaches for differently-abled persons to be provided in each Mail/Express trains.
Introduction of Rail Bandhu on-board magazines on Rajdhanis, Shatabdis and Duronto trains.
Setting up of AC Executive lounges at important stations
75 new Express trains to be introduced.
21 new passenger services, 9 DEMU services and 8 MEMU services to be introduced.
Run of 39 trains to be extended.
Frequency of 23 trains to be increased.
75 additional services to run in Mumbai suburban; 44 new suburban services to be introduced in Kolkata area, 50 new services to be introduced in Kolkata Metro; 18 additional services in Chennai area.
725 km new lines, 700 km doubling, 800 km gauge conversion and 1,100 km electrification targeted in 2012-13.
Rs 6,872 cr provided for new lines, Rs 3,393 cr for doubling, Rs 1,950 cr for gauge conversation, Rs 828 cr for electrification
Highest ever plan outlay of Rs. 60,100 cr
Rae Bareli coach factory manufactured 10 coaches in 2011-12; phase-II of the factory would be commissioned in 2012-13.
• A wagon factory to be set up at Sitapali (Ganjam District of Odisha)
• A rail coach factory with the support of Government of Kerala to be set up at Palakkad; two additional new manufacturing units for coaches to be established in the Kutch area in Gujarat and at Kolar in Karnataka with active participation of the State Governments.
• Setting up of a factory at Shyamnagar in West Bengal to manufacture next generation technology propulsion system for use in high power electric locomotives.
• Creating Missions as recommended by Pitroda Committee to implement the modernization programme.
• Setting up of Railway Tariff Regulatory Authority to be considered.
• New Board Members for Safety/Research and PPP/Marketing to be inducted.
• Rail-Road Grade Separation Corporation to be set up to eliminate level crossings.
• Indian Railway Station Development Corporation to be set up to redevelop stations through PPP mode.
• Logistics Corporation to be set up for development & management of existing railway goods sheds and multi-modal logistics parks.
• National High Speed Rail Authority to be set-up.
• Pre-feasibility studies on six high speed corridors already completed; study on Delhi-Jaipur-Ajmer-Jodhpur to be taken up in 2012-13.
• Introduction of a ‘Green Train’ to run through the pristine forests of North Bengal.
• Setting up of 200 remote railway stations as ‘green energy stations’ powered entirely by solar energy.
• Providing solar lighting system at 1,000 manned level crossing gates.
• 2,500 coaches to be equipped with bio toilets.
• Setting up of 72 MW capacity windmill plants in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal.
• Installation of Integrated Security System at all 202 identified stations to be completed in 2012-13.
• Escorting of trains by RPF/GRP extended to 3,500 trains.
• Integration of RPF helpline with the All India Passenger Helpline.
• Setting up of a Railway Safety Authority as a statutory regulatory body as recommended by Kakodkar Committee
• . Three ‘Safety Villages’ to be set up at Bengaluru, Kharagpur and Lucknow for skill development for disaster management.
• Over one lakh persons to be recruited in 2012-13 – backlog of SC/ST/OBC and other categories to be wiped off.
• Introduction of a wellness programme for railway staff at their work places.
• Ensuring proper rest for skilled and technical staff including the running crew.
• Institution of ‘Rail Khel Ratna’ Award for 10 rail sports-persons every year.
• New coaching terminal at Naihati, the birth place of Rishi Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay commemorating him on 175th Birth Anniversary.
.Project to connect Agartala with Akhaura in Bangladesh to be taken up in 2012-13.
Freight loading of 1,025 MT targeted; 55 MT more than 2011-12
Passenger growth targeted at 5.4 %.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/highlights-of-railway-budget/

Aizawl, Mar 4 NNN : The first ever Bamboo Day was observed in Mizoram on Saturday.
The occasion was organised to promote bamboo craft in Mizoram. The state is bestowed abundantly with bamboo.
Speaking on the occasion of historic “1st Mizoram Bamboo Day” programme on Saturday at Reception Hall, Aijal Club, chief minister Lalthanhawla said Mizoram is one of the richest bamboo growing areas in India both in terms of yields as well as in species diversity with around 44% of the sates’ geographical area covered with bamboo having some 35 odd species.
Besides the normal observation of Bamboo Day, a seminar was also held on bamboo.
Lalthanhawla while delivering a speech on “seminar-cum- Interactive Meet on Bamboo: Technology , Livelihood, Export Potential & Prospects” in commemoration of 1st Mizoram Bamboo Day said the utility, especially in terms of value addition in bamboo products is still to be developed in Mizoram, which is the biggest challenge for the people of Mizoram, adding, how China has become a world’s leader in bamboo production
. He then stated that many of the north eastern states like Tripura, Assam and Meghalaya are way ahead than Mizoram in terms of Value Addition related to bamboo.
The chief minister then welcomed all the participants of seminar –cum- Interactive Meet hoping that interactions and exchange of ideas will surely share valuable information to further the promotion of bamboo production in Mizoram.
For Mizoram, starting from Resource Inventory to Value Addition, the state Government is at present giving sharp focus towards bamboo plantation and management.
However, owing to lack of basic infrastructures like roads, power and electricity and other logistic support, the state government had not been able to properly capitalize on the true potential of bamboo till today, official sources said here today, adding, until a few years ago, before the last gregarious flowering (Mautam) between year 2003-2006, Mahal system or open auction was the main method adopted for Disposal in SITU. However, it is a welcome relief that during the last few years, people have realized the potential of bamboo thanks to the Natioanl Bamboo Mission, the entrepreneurs in bamboo mat ply, agarbatti sticks et al, with Mizoram government even entering into a joint venture with Venus Bamboo to produce World Class Bamboo Panels and Boards.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/bamboo-day-observed-in-mizoram/

New Delhi, Mar 4 (ANI): As the fate of poll candidates from 690 constituencies gets sealed with the conclusion of assembly elections in five states, Chief Election Commissioner S.Y Qureshi has lauded voters, terming their participation as ‘outstanding.’Voter turnout during this year’s assembly elections conducted in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab and Goa has recorded an all time high in recent years, with only Manipur playing a spoiler with low turnout following incidents of violence. “Free and fair and totally incident free, except this incident in Manipur which we had already reported. I would like to thank the voters of all the five states for their outstanding performance,” Qureshi told the media here.
Qureshi further said that a key feature of the polls held in five states was the huge participation of women voters.
“Highest turnout of women voters- very high turnout, women have outdone men in Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand and in Manipur. In Uttar Pradesh the turnout has been remarkable with an increase in this year’s attendance by 42.77 percent. The increase in Uttarakhand is 6.88 percent and in Manipur also women are more, 694,000 as against 631,000 men voters,” said Qureshi.
He further said that this year’s election also witnessed an impressive youth turnout.
“Youth turnout was very high, youth participation was remarkable this time. We are yet to develop the figures. We will supply to you later,” he added.
Qureshi also indicated that the commission is trying to find out how to fight urban apathy during polls. He appreciated the participation of 100 million school children in spreading awareness about the polls.Qureshi informed that 15,420 vulnerable hamlets were identified under which special protection was provided to 345,015 voters. “Special arrangements were made for the protection of vulnerable groups. Steps were taken to build their confidence, during which additional forces were deployed. In areas where we anticipated that these certain sects of people would be exposed to harassment or the upper dominant caste would not allow them to participate in the polls, special police squads were formed to check that. Preventive actions on a very large scale were taken. Elaborate planning and effort has gone into the error and incident free execution of the polls,” he said.In Uttar Pradesh, polling in the seventh phase on Saturday has been tentatively 62 percent. This makes the overall turnout in the Uttar Pradesh election approximately 60 percent, which is 30.23 percent increase over 2007 turnout when the was 46.07 percent.
Punjab saw the turnout of 78.57 percent, which is an increase of 8.43 percent over 2007 turnout when it was 72.12 percent. In Uttarakhand, turnout is 67.89 percent, which is 6.15 percent increase over 2007 turnout when it was 63.96 percent.
While in Goa, the turnout is 81 percent, which is an all time high and is an increase of 14.87 percent over 2007, when it was 70.51 percent. Only in Manipur, there was a decrease in turnout from 84.83 percent in 2007 to 79.41 percent this year .

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/qureshi-happy-over-outstanding-performance-by-voters-in-state-polls/

New Delhi/Kanpur, Mar 3 (ANI): The Congress Party on Saturday expressed confidence about forming governments in the five poll-bound states, and emphasized that eventually the decision to chose their leader lay with the people.
Congress spokesperson Rashid Alvi said that in a democracy like India , representatives act as a medium for the people to express their opinion on governance in the country.
“In a democracy, the public decides. The public takes the decision regarding the country’s future as well as its fate. These elections ARE just a process. The last phase of Uttar Pradesh and elections in Goa will conclude by this evening and we are hopeful that the Congress will form a government in all five states,” said Alvi.
Alvi further defended Congress General Secretary Digvijay Singh’s remark that Rahul Gandhi should not be held responsible if the election results in Uttar Pradesh were not in favour of the party.
Alvi described Rahul Gandhi as the future of the Congress Party as well as the country.
“It is absolutely wrong to say this. Rahul Gandhi is a national leader; he is the future of the Congress Party. He campaigned in Uttar Pradesh in the same way, as he had gone to Uttarakhand and other states. Uttar Pradesh was not a special case. He went as the national leader to campaign in the five states, not specifically in Uttar Pradesh,” he said.
Meanwhile, Union Coal Minister Sriprakash Jaiswal has asserted that Rahul Gandhi is correctly being touted as a youth icon in Uttar Pradesh.
“Nobody has a right on anyone. Neither is the Congress saying that they have a right. The 12-16 percent of youth, who came out to vote, it is clear that the youth has been attracted by Rahul Gandhi. If the youth are voting for Rahul Gandhi, so it is clear that the youth must have come out of their houses and voted for him,” said Jaiswal.
“Now, what BJP, SP and BSP are saying is of least concern, everyone will say something or the other. But, the reality is that the youth has come out this time and they have voted in favour of Rahul Gandhi,” he added.
Around 25 percent votes were polled till noon on Saturday for the seventh and final phase of Uttar Pradesh assembly elections, marking the end of the month-long exercise.
The Uttar Pradesh polls are being viewed as an opportunity for major political parties to re-establish their foothold in the country’s fifth largest and most populous state.
The first, second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth phases of polling occurred on February 8, 11, 15, 19, 23 and 28 respectively. A new 403-member state assembly will be elected in March.
The poll results will broadly indicate trends for the 2014 general elections.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/congress-confident-of-forming-govt-in-five-poll-bound-states/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, Mar 2 : News article regarding drying up of Brahmaputra in Arunachal as reported in section of the media regarding ‘Brahmaputra dries up in Arunachal Pradesh’ – China May Have Diverted Water, Fears State Govt., quoting Statement of Mr. Tako Dabi, the political adviser to Chief Minister that People of Pasighat town in East Siang district found that water level of the river receded so much on Wednesday that it almost dried and expressed apprehension that China could have diverted the water of the river, which is known as Yarlong Tsangpo in Tibet, or there could be some artificial blockade due to which this has happened said a press statement issued by Ministry of Water Resources . During Telephonic conversation made by officials of Ministry of Water Resources with the State Government officials of Arunachal Pradesh, it came out that the statement may be based on the visual impression gathered from general public perception of the rivers flows around Pasighat town.
The apprehensions expressed by the state Government regarding possible diversion of the Brahmaputra by China is not correct and devoid of facts. The changes in river regime / flows are a natural phenomenon dependent on various hydro-meteorological and climatological factors. Central Water Commission (CWC) collects and analyzes the hydrological data relating to all major rivers in the country, consisting of rainfall, runoff and temperature, etc. and river Siang is one of them.
On river Siang, CWC has been maintaining river water level and discharge data at pasighat in East Siang district and at Tuting in Upper Siang district, very near to the international border with Tibet Autonomous Region, China. CWC has examined the water level and river discharges starting from November, 2011 up till February, 2012 at these sites and observed that there has been neither any abnormal rise or fall in water flow of River Siang on these sites during this period nor any significant change in the quantum of water coming from Tibet Autonomous Region, China at the entry point in India.
The water level at Pasighat in the month of February, 2012 fluctuated between 151.62 m to 151.76 m and river discharges from 1175.02 to 1262.11 cumecs. The discharge observed at Pasighat on 29th February, 2012 was 1262.11 cumecs and 2651.52 cumecs on 1st March 2012. The increase in discharge at Pasighat on 01st March 2012 is explained due to heavy rainfall in the intervening catchment on 29th Feb & 1st March 2012.
The incoming water level in River Siang at Tuting, very near to International Border in the month of February 2012 varied between 403.44 m to 403.78 m and river flows between 932.9 cumecs to 1035.88 cumecs and there are no abnormal changes in the rivers flows at the point of entry of river Siang in India.
Government of India keeps a constant watch on all developments in China having bearing on India’s interest and takes necessary measures to protect them.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/government-clarifies-on-diversion-of-river-by-china/

Shillong, Mar 2 NNN : Meghalaya opposition party led by NCP has expressed surprise at the lethargic response to its initiative to use the latest technology in soliciting initiative public views and suggestions through the call centres and the emails.
Leaders of the opposition Conrad Sangma told a group of reporters that the people of the state ‘surprised’ him ,considering the fact that all the people are into mobile phones and internet but do not want to make the best use of it.
The NCP created two call centres and an ‘open to all’ face book account of the leader of the opposition to elicit the public grievances in order to addmore teeth to the confronting voices during forthcoming Budget session of the state assembly.
However, the urban response is discouraging , given the 20 phone calls that the opposition Leader of the opposition Conrad K Sangma told reporters that the type of response from the urban areas through the call centres is a surprise.
“All those calls came from West Khasi Hills and Jaintia Hills districts”, informed Conrad K Sangma, besides informing that those who called dwelt on issues pertaining to local development. The NCP leader also divulged that,he had received 80 odd emails from people in this regard.
The Meghalaya Budget session of the state assembly begins on March 9 and concludes on March 21.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/amco-disapproves-holding-re-meghalaya-ncp-wants-progress-in-technology/

Aizawl, Mar 2 NNN : The main festival of the Mizos, Chapchar Kut 2012 was celebrated today colourfully across the state of Mizoram. The main celebration of Chapchar Kut in the state was held today at Assam Rifles Ground in Aizawl where P.C. Zoramsangliana, minister, Art & Culture was Kut thlengtu (Host of the festival); Chief Minister Lal Thanhawla was Kut Pa (Father of the festival); Governor of Mizoram Vakkom Purushothaman was the Chief Guest and Som Kamei, NEZCC Director was guest of honor.
Governor Vakkom Purushothaman, in his message of the Festival stated that according to his feeling in observing the Chapchar Kut today, not only Kerala, but also Mizoram is God’s Own Country to attract tourist according to its appearance, seasons, physical features and landscape. He also asserted that he want to expose Mizoram to the world better than before. Father of the Festival Lal Thanhawla also said that the importance of peace among each others, this was practices since our ancestors observed this festivals in the historical period. He said that he want the Mizo people to realize the needs of brotherhood, peace, unity among the several clans of the Mizos. Numbers of guest from Assam, Manipur, Menghalaya and Nagaland took their schedule programme.
At the entertaintment part of the festival, popular band like X- Strings, Scavenger Project; Dream Hunters, including, popular crooners– Judith Lalremruati, Lalthutha (Mizoram Idol, 2011) Zonunmawii, Elezabeth Zodinpuii, Saizikpuii Sailo; Ngainunsangi, Lalropuii Pachuau enthralled the thousands of people gathered to have glimpse of Chapchar Kut Festival here today with their soul- searching numbers.
Besides, the celebration today saw colourful show of songs & dances, costume show etc on par with traditional values of Mizo community. People in large number with traditional attires thronged the venue (AR Ground) here to witnessed the Cultural extravangzas, even the children did not lag behind as far as showcasing their dancing skills is concerned today.
Meanwhile, Chapchar Kut was also celebrated across the districts. The day was celebrated in Saiha at District Playground where T Rothanga was the ‘Kut Pa’ while H Lalhmingthanga, SDO (S), Saiha District presided over the programme. The day was also celebrated with pomp and geity at Lawngtlai district. CEM, LADC C. Ngunlianchunga was the ‘Father of the Kut’ (Kut Pa). Students of various school showcased traditional dances. In Mamit district, the festival was held at Mamit GSA Playground where Rodney L Ralte, IAS, DC of Mamit district was the ‘Kut Pa’. The programme was presided over by Zatluanga Sailo, President, Sub-Hqrs YMA. Traditional dances were performed by Mamit Cultural Organisation Sub-Hqrs and school students.
Chapchar Kut, 2012 was also celebrated at Lunglei today at Saikuti Hall where large numbers of people thronged the hall to celebrate the big event. B. Lalchungnunga, Ex-MLA and president of MUP, Sub-Hqrs, Lunglei was the ‘Kut Pa’ while P.Lalhmangaihzuala, President Sub-Hqrs. YMA conducted the programme. The celebration witnessed a variety show of Pangpar lam, Sarlamkai, Khuallam, Chheihlam, Chai, Cheraw (Kantluang), Cheraw (Bualpui Cheraw) Siktui thianglam, Solakia and selection of Miss Chapchar Kut. Assembly Speaker R Romawia today graced the celebration of Chapchar Kut, 2012 at Kolasib as ‘Kut Pa’ held at Tumpui Field.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/chapchar-kut-2012-observed-in-mizoram/

Mail News Service
Aizawl, Mar 1 : The Armies of India and Indonesia concluded a week-long joint military exercise today. The operational part of the first-ever platoon-level joint training exercise, Exercise ‘Garuda Shakti’, was conducted at the Indian Army’s elite `Counter Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School’ (CIJWS), Vairengte in Mizoram.
Training together to counter the scourge of insurgency in various contemporary scenarios including jungle warfare, Chakravyuh, the three-day outdoor validation exercise, tested the weeklong training, imparted at various Counter Insurgency (CI) modules and at the plethora of firing ranges in the guerrilla warfare school. Chakravyuh ended with the busting of a simulated insurgent hideout in Mizoram’s Lushai Hills, in the wee hours today, after a grueling nightlong march.
The Indonesian National Army (Tentara Nasional Indonesia-Angkatan Darat, TNI-AD, in short) troops led by Lt Col Gatot Heru Puana of KOSTRAD (Indonesian Army’s Strategic Reserve Command) belonging to the 13th Infantry Brigade comprised of five officers, six Non-Commissioned Officers and 14 Privates. Troops from the 19th Madras Infantry Battalion, of 21 Mountain Division under Eastern Command, currently deployed in CI operations in the northeast sector, comprised the Indian side.
“They are very sincere, devoted, well-prepared and eager to learn,” said CIJWS Commandant, Maj Gen AK Sen, talking about the Indonesian troops while observing from close quarters the ‘slithering’ and ‘special heliborne operations’ from an IAF Mi-17 flown in from nearby Kumbhirgram airbase in Silchar, Assam. “The visiting troops were put through a rigorous initiation process, and they fared as good as their Indian counterparts,” he added.
The exercise which began on February 20, is aimed at building closer military-to-military ties, among its many other objectives. “This training has actually helped us to know each other’s procedure and drills including firing tactics,” said Gen Sen, adding that the firing ranges at CIJWS particularly interested the Indonesian troops, just as they did to the Bangladeshi, Polish and Israeli troops who trained here in the recent past.
CIJWS Vairengte has over 13 different types of firing ranges catering to every conceivable indoor and outdoor scenario, ranging from urban, semi-urban to rural settings. Bringing in realism in training, Infantry Weapons Effect Simulation System (IWESS) and Small Arms Training Simulators (SATS) are also extensively used. The landscape and the inimitable replicated settings here in CIJW make it the most preferred destination to train for several armies of the world.
For proper assimilation of the nuances in CIJW operations for the Indonesian troops, all training and attack drills were coordinated by
having two mixed platoons (comprising around 30 soldiers each) of KOSTRAD soldiers and the Indian Infantry troops, overseen by senior military observers.
Praising the professionalism of the Indian Infantry soldiers, the leader of the Indonesian troops, Col Gatot observed that the Indian troops are very well equipped to fight the insurgents. While finding some of the training tactics very similar, he said that the concept of ‘Buddy’ system was something they would like to emulate. “Back home we operate in big groups,” he says.
A conglomeration of more than 17,500 islands on either side of the equator, the Indonesian Republic whose national fabric represents ‘Unity in Diversity’ as much as it is avowed here in India, has also been besieged with terror-related attacks in recent times.
“Our counter-insurgency related operations are mostly in the border areas,” the Colonel apprised, adding that the training would come in good stead upon their return.
The formal closing of ‘Ex-Garuda Shakti’ will take place tomorrow, with both sides exchanging feedback and mementoes, and rounding off with a military-style campfire with gourmet meals, comprising both Indian and Indonesian delicacies, including cultural exchanges.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/indian-and-indonesian-troops-train-together-at-mizoram/

Aizawl, Mar 1NNN: Chapchar Kut, 2012 probably the major traditional festival of Mizos will be celebrated on March 2 (Friday) across the state of Mizoram.
It is learnt that the festival will also be celebrated across the district hqrs with much fanfare keeping in mind the religious and traditional values of the Mizos.
Notably, the main celebratory programme on March 2 to be held at Assam Rifles Parade Ground here will be graced by chief minister Lalthanhawla as ‘Kut Pa’ (Father of the Festival); Mizoram Governor Vakkom Purushothaman as chief guest and visiting Director of North East Zone Cultural Society (NEZCC), Diampur (Nagaland) Som Kamei as guest of honour. The Organising Committee iinformed NNN today that the Chapchar Kut festival is celebrated some time in March every year after completion of the most arduous task of Jhum operation – Jungle Clearing or Shifting Cultivation; adding, this is a spring festival celebrated with great enthusiasm by the Mizos in the Chapchar Kut celebration on March2 at Assam Rifles ground here will have eye- catching items like Bawhhla/Hlado (Chaldailova & Party), opening song by the Central Young Mizo Asociation (YMA) choir, religious sermon from Rev. Dr.Lalhmnagaiha, Presbyterian Church of India , Mizoram Synod), Traditional Costume Show ( Nagaland, Manipur , Mizoram, NEZCC) including solo numbers from popular singers—Judith Lalremruati, Lalthuthaa (Mizo Idol , 2011) and not to forget live band performances from X- strings, Scavenger Project and Dream Hunter.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/mizoram-to-celebrate-chap-charkut-2012-today/

Itanagar, Mar 1 (ANI): The mighty Siang River has dried up, shrinking about a kilometre from its bank in the century-old Arunachal Pradesh town of Pasighat in East Siang district, a phenomenon never experienced in the last half-decade.
The people cannot forget the June 9, 2000 catastrophe when the River Siang rose suddenly by 30 metres as they were asleep, inundating almost the entire town and causing widespread destruction of property, besides claiming seven lives.
Waters of the river rose after the collapse of a hydropower dam in Tibet. There were also fears that China might have diverted the waters of the Yarlong Tsangpo.
Siang is also known as Yarlong Tsangpo in Tibet, and there were fears that there could be some artificial blockade from the Chinese side that had caused the unprecedented drying up of the River Siang, regarded as the lifeline of India’s north eastern region.
Arunachal Government spokesman Tako Dabii, who himself inspected the dried up bed of the river, also expressed the apprehension of locals, and suggested that the Indian Government, its agencies like the Central Water Commission, should immediately conduct an in-depth study in collaboration with the state government, to find the crux of the problem.
Dabii said the panic prevailing among the people was similar to the ‘Kakua bhaya’ phenomenon (an unknown fear during the Dwapara Yug), and therefore, could simply not be brushed aside. He pleaded with all those who matter at all levels to take immediate precautionary measures.
Quoting many septuagenarians, Dabii said they felt that if it was a blockade, it would be much more disastrous, and would set alarm bells ringing, particularly in New Delhi and Itanagar, besides all those associated with disaster management.
Taking a dig at China for its baseless rhetorical claim over Arunachal territory, Dabii said such claims make the great Asian giant a ‘laughing stock’ before the global community.
Communist leaders are sensible and would realise their folly soon to stop ridiculing them, he added.
Notwithstanding China’s claims, its dam-construction binge fuelled by its growing energy needs, nothing could be ruled out.
Yarlung Tsangpo or Yarlung River, the highest river in the world, is a watercourse that originates at the Tamlung Tso Lake in western Tibet, southeast of Mount Kailash and Lake Manasarovar.
It later forms the South Tibet Valley and Yarlung Tsangpo Grand Canyon, before entering India at Tuting, in Arunachal as Siang, takes the name of Brahmaputra in Assam and enters Bangladesh and is christened Padma after the Meghna joins its at Bhairav Bazar.
In the Upper Mekong Basin in Yunnan Province, China plans to construct eight cascade hydropower dams, the first of which, the Manwan Dam, was completed in 1996.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/drying-up-of-siang-river-lifeline-of-northeast-could-spell-doom/

Mail News Service
Gauhati, Mar 1 : The Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) and Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, Paban Singh Ghatowar has flagged off a Pilot Scheme “Youth to the Edge” yesterday in Tinsukia, Assam.
On the occasion, Shri Ghatowar said that the North Eastern Region (NER) is identified as one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots for its natural resources as it hosts variety of species, rich tropical rain forests supports and diverse flora and fauna having abundance in mineral wealth, forests and water resources.
This region has yet to harness the vast developmental potential of these resources for the benefit of its inhabitants.
The Minister stressed that Youth from NER are physically fit, good in sport but lack proper infrastructure to achieve greater excellence.
Adventure activities have potential of overall development which can create discipline, team spirit and comradeship.
These activities have the potential to help in skill development, leading to self employment like promotion of adventure and tourism which has vast potential in the region.
Ghatowar opined that the successful conduct of the pilot scheme and experiences gathered will be efficiency of proposed scheme for 12th Plan
. The function concluded with remarkable enthusiasm shown by the youth of the area and expression of interest for holding of such more activities in future which will prove to be a potential connect between the youth of North Eastern Region and the youth of the rest of the India.
Pilot scheme is being funded by the Minister of DoNER through North East Council. Administrative approval for Rs.2.87 crore has been accorded and first installment of Rs.2.00 crore has been released by the North East Council (NEC) to the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports.
The scheme is executed by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports (MYA&S) through National Service Scheme (NSS).

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/ghatowar-flags-off-youth-to-the-edge-scheme/

New Delhi , March 1 (ANI): More than a dozen Tibetan exiles shouting anti-China slogans staged a protest outside Hyderabad House, even as the foreign ministers of India and China were meeting to discuss various issues here on Thursday.
Draped in Tibetan flags and holding anti-China placards, the protesters shouted slogans demanding freedom for Tibet .
They said that any border talks between the two countries could take place only after freedom is granted to Tibet .
“No border talks are possible between India and China . As long as Tibet is not free, these countries can’t talk about the border issue,” a Tibetan protester said.
Police officials deployed outside the venue had to briefly detain the protesters.
Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi is meeting Indian Foreign Minister S M Krishna in the backdrop of some bickering over Beijing ’s objection to Defence Minister A K Antony’s recent visit to Arunachal Pradesh.
Antony visited Arunachal Pradesh last month to participate in the statehood celebrations.
Certain parts of the state are in contention between India and China .
China says most of Arunachal Pradesh is part of Tibet . On its part, India claims China ’s isolated Aksai Chin Plateau near Kashmir , as its own.
China claims vast swathes of Indian territories along their 3,500 km (2,173 mile) Himalayan border.
Jiechi arrived in New Delhi on Wednesday to soothe nerves and boost bilateral ties between the two nations and to lay the groundwork for the visit of Chinese President Hu Jintao to India for the BRICS summit to be held here later this month.
BRICS is an international political organisation that bands together the emerging economic powerhouses of Brazil , Russia , India , China and South Africa .

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/tibetan-exiles-protest-against-border-talks-between-india-china/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, Feb 29: Union Tourism Minister Shri Subodh Kant Sahai has called for accelerated development of the tourism sector with the active involvement of industry. Speaking at the National Tourism Awards 2010-2011 presentation ceremony here today, he said Ministry of Tourism is looking at diversifying the tourism products by developing and promoting the nascent/upcoming niche products of the Tourism industry. Shri Sahai said,” this is done in order to overcome the aspect of seasonality to promote India as a 365 destination to attract tourists with specific interest and to ensure repeat visits by the tourists. The Tourism Minister said identifying the niche products is a dynamic exercise where in new products may be added in due course. Seeking support of the tourism industry for the initiatives of the Government of India in creation of infrastructure and employment generation activities. Shri Sahai said,” the tourism sector is actively led by the industry and only facilitated by the Government”.
The President Smt. Pratibha Devisingh Patil gave away National Tourism Awards to 78 awardees in over 50 categories.
Earlier in his welcome address Union Minister for State of Tourism, Shri Sultan Ahmed said that tourism is an industry which works with synergy with all stake holders putting in their combined efforts to achieve desired results. He said the Ministry of Tourism looks forward to continued support from all stakeholders in ensuring that India occupies its rightful place as a leading destination in the world.
The Ministry of Tourism, Government of India annually presents National Tourism Awards to various segments of the travel, tourism and hospitality industry. These awards are presented to State Governments / Union Territories, classified hotels, heritage hotels, approved travel agents, tour operators and tourist transport operators, individuals and other private organizations in recognition of their performance in their respective fields and also to encourage healthy competition with an aim to promote tourism. The National Tourism
Awards have over the years emerged as a prestigious recognition of achievements in the travel, tourism and hospitality sectors.
Three new categories of Awards were introduced from this year. In an attempt to encourage States and Union Territories to put into place effective mechanisms for maintaining cleanliness at tourist destinations, a new Category of award for “The Best State : Campaign
Clean India” has been introduced. In addition two new categories of awards for the “Best Heritage City” and “Best Heritage Walk” have also been introduced.
Some of the important recipients of Awards were the States of Sikkim, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Kerala, the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad, the New Delhi Railway Station, leading Tour Operators and Hotels, amongst others.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/president-gives-away-national-tourism-awards/

Mail News Service
New Delhi, Feb 29: The Central Bureau of Investigation today filed a charge-sheet in the Court of ACMM (CBI) Jodhpur against 13 accused persons who are presently in judicial custody in Central Jail Jodhpur. Three accused persons have been charged U/s 120-B r/w 302, 364 & 201 IPC and Section 3(2)(V) of SC/ST (POA) Act & substantive offences thereof. Five accused including the then Minister of Water Resources of Rajasthan & another MLA of Rajasthan have been charged U/s 120-B r/w 302, 364 & 201 IPC and Section 3(2)(V) of SC/ST (POA) Act. Four accused have been charged U/s 120-B r/w 302, 364 & 201 IPC and Section 3(2)(V) of SC/ST (POA) Act & substantive offences thereof. One accused(Husband of Smt.Bhanwari Devi) has been charged U/s 120-B r/w 365, 364 & 201 IPC. Further investigation U/s 173 (8) Cr.PC is continuing against four absconding accused including a sister of the accused MLA.
Investigation revealed that Smt.Bhanwari Devi was abducted on 01.9.2011 and was killed. It is alleged that her body was later on disposed off and thrown into a canal as per charge-sheet. Earlier, CBI had filed a charge sheet on 02/12/11 in the case in the court of ACMM (CBI) Jodhpur.
CBI registered this case on 11.10.11 relating to the alleged abduction of Smt.Bhanwari Devi, r/o Village Berunda, District Jodhpur(Rajasthan) on the request of Rajasthan Government and further Notification from Govt. Of India. The case was earlier registered by Rajasthan Police vide FIR No.383/2011 dated 05.09.11 U/s 365/120-B of PS. Bilara, Distt. Jodhpur Rural, Rajasthan. It was alleged that certain persons conspired to abduct Smt.Bhanwari Devi in order to eliminate her. Smt. Bhanwari Devi, a local Nurse & folk Singer, allegedly left for Bilada on 01.09.2011 at about 1:00 PM by Rajasthan Roadways Bus for collecting the payment of her car, which was reportedly sold to a person of Village Tilbasni, District Jodhpur(Rajasthan).
After thorough investigation in a professional & transparent manner to unravel the truth in this case, CBI filed a charge-sheet today.
The public is reminded that the above findings are based on the investigation done by CBI and evidence collected by it. Under the Indian Law, the accused are presumed to be innocent till their guilt is finally established after a fair trial.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/cbi-files-chargesheet-against-thirteen/