Nagalim campaign jitters Meitei extremists

SILCHAR, Sept 30: NSCN (IM), NSCN (K) and FGN (Federal Government of Nagaland) abjuring factionalism to form a united front for upholding Naga cause and achieving its goal of Nagalim or greater Nagaland has caused consternation among Manipur based outfits. The very concept of Nagalim, if given effect to, will adversely create an impact on the territorial integrity of Manipur, besides that of Asom and Arunachal Pradesh. The unity move and the declaration were resolved at the conclave of the Naga outfits at Chiang Mai, Thailand, recently.

The declaration was signed jointly by NSCN (IM) leader V S Atem, NSCN (K) leader Wangtin Naga and FGN representative Zhopro Vero. It was a move initiated by Church-led Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR). With peace parleys between the GOI and the NSCN (IM) reaching a decisive stage. According to a Delhi report, NSCN (IM) will present its 30-point charter of demands with Nagalim as one of the contentious issues during its talk with the Centre sometime in November next.

Though all the insurgent groups in Northeast seem to be confused and at crossroads about the territorial integrity of their sovereign independent States, they are yet to speak or spell out their strategy to deal with their adversaries, encroaching upon one another’s land. ULFA’s concept of independent Asom, for example, is at variance with the homeland demand of NSCN (IM), DHD or Bodo groups.

In all fairness, of all the extremist groups, NSCN (IM) has been most unambiguous in its status on Nagalim. According to intelligence sources, the million dollar question that hinges on the fragile frame of negotiation table is the very demand of greater Nagaland. Certain developments in Manipur cannot but provoke serious analysis. All the major extremist outfits of the State—PLA, PREPAK, UNLF, KCP and KYKL despite their ideological differences are struggling for an independent Manipur. PLA, the most influential guerilla outfit has been the prime mover to unite all other groups to oppose not only the colonial rule of Delhi but also to protect the territorial integrity of Manipur.

After the abortive formation of the Revolutionary Joint Committee (RJC) with PLA, PREPAK and KCP, Manipur People’s Liberation Front (MPLF) roping in UNLF and KYKL was formed. In a joint statement, PREPAK chairman Ayanba, UNLF supremo Sana Yaima and Revolutionary People’s Front, PLA’s political wing president Iraban Chaolan resolved to carry forward the revolution to reach the desired goal.

Prepak’s appeal to the natives is quite significant. The message with red salute reads–– “the very existence of Kangleipak is threatened from all sides at the behest of dreadful bandits of the Delhi regime.

Our revolutionaries are working hard to save the honour and integrity of our nation and to restore the sovereignty of the people. It is morally obligatory on part of every Kangleicha to contribute his or her might towards the struggle.”

Without hinting directly at Naga outfits’ insistence on Nagalim, the Manipuri ultras are targeting New Delhi without adopting, quite diplomatically, confrontationist strategy to prevent dismemberment of Manipur.

Tactically, New Delhi could push the ball into the courts of the ultra groups in question to settle first their sovereignty issue in order to open channels for talks. THE SENTINEL

Reang militant leader in police custody

SILCHAR, Sept 30: Dhanyaram Reang, the self styled supreme of the United Democratic Liberation Army (UDLA), a Reang militant outfit, had been sent to police custody for seven days by Hailakandi Additional CJM Chandan Das for further interrogation. Dhanyaram (28) was arrested by Mizoram Police at Kolasib recently while he was escorting his ailing wife to a hospital for treatment. He was taken back to Hailakandi last night.

Dhanyaram, whose UDLA broke away from Panchgram Reang’s ULFBV when the latter surrendered to the State government, was produced in the court today amid tight security. He was charged with the kidnapping of one Ananta Das from Gharmura area of South Hailakandi bordering Mizoram. However, a top official of Hailakandi reportedly hinted that Dhanyaram Reang went to Kolasib to purchase firearms from an arms dealer.

Sources further said that some ULFBV cadres were instrumental in the arrest of Dhanyaram, who created a reign of terror after Panchuram surrendered along with 305 cadres and subsequently joined the Congress.

Meanwhile, Dhanyaram’s gang unleashed terror along the Asom-Mizoram border by kidnapping many people.

Panchuram, however, talking to The Sentinel, claimed that Dhanyaram had a hidden nexus with some Muslim miscreants. THE SENTINEL

Asom hits it low on development chart

SILCHAR, September 29: Asom is listed on 15th rank among 20 big States of the country with respect to development in the seventh ‘State of the State’s Report’ of India Today as published in its September 28 issue. Asom’s slide is being attributed to sloth. Among 10 small States, Sikkim and Mizoram are wrestling for honours in education and health while Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland are emerging as success stories.

In agriculture, as the report says, Asom’s record is a dismal one, having been placed at the bottom. Despite State Health Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma being adjudged as the best Health Minister in the country, the State has swapped to the 15th position in primary health services. Quite disappointing is the investment environment which pushes the State to the last but one slot. In primary education, notwithstanding all the bad public criticism, it has scaled up to sixth position. Infrastructure development keeps Asom on constant rank just up the three States of Bihar, Chattisgarh and Jharkhand.

In respect of macro economy management of its finances to achieve inclusiveness and basic prosperity in a sustainable manner, it has gone down on ranking to stand at the 16th place. It is the same story with consumer market, pegging the State to 13th rank. Law and order is described as critical for a well governed State. Obviously being hit by insurgency and disturbed situation, particularly in North Cachar Hills, Asom is just up the States of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal. Significantly on this front, Kerala among the big States and Pondicherry as a small State occupy the place on the top.

Mizoram is emerging as the smart mover in the eastern region. Over the years, Sikkim and Mizoram have been tough competitors in development. Now, they are joined by Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland. Asom again has been clubbed with Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal as the worst performers in a demand-driven programme like the Prime Minister’s Rural Road Yojana. Sikkim has achieved 100 per cent roll out of governed services through common service centres.

Mizoram has also created the highest 125.82 lakh mandays to 91,758 households. It is quite relevant to know that Punjab has been declared best in agriculture, infrastructure and consumer market. Himachal Pradesh is given the distinction of doing the best in education, health and macro economy as well as investment and among the smaller States, Delhi has been best in consumer market and infrastructure. THE SENTINEL

On the Deaf Ears

Majuli, the hub of Asom’s pristine Vaishnavite tradition, betrays ironically an insensitive government’s total lack of concern for such heritage site. The Tarun Gogoi government has been in power since 2001 but never has it occurred to it that there is even a place called Majuli, let alone what it means for the Asomiyas. (It is this same government whose zeal knows no bounds in providing ‘secular’ safeguards to the proliferating illegal Bangladeshi crowd and their many living spaces in the State, including the encroached national parks such as Kaziranga.) As this newspaper has reported in a series of stories on Majuli, the river island faces an imminent threat of being completely wiped out from the face of earth, thanks to the fury of the Brahmaputra. There is an entity called the Brahmaputra Board though, ostensibly to take care of the river island. However, like any other entity that the government presides over, this board too has long been dead in so far as mitigation of Majuli’s woes is concerned. Going by the official report of the Majuli subdivision, as many as 9,217 families out of a total of 31,311 families living in the river island have been rendered homeless due to erosion by the Brahmaputra. The Ahatguri mouza located in the southern part of the island has already lost 36 villages out of its 38 villages, and soon the two remaining villages too would be wiped out. Yet, the government is blissfully unconcerned as though a divine miracle would change the whole course and it should rather be concentrating on the better and electorally rewarding things of life, such as ‘secular’ plans for the uplift of the illegal Bangladeshis-turned-Indian ‘minorities’. Is it surprising then that the cry of Majuli should fall on the deaf ears of the Gogoi government? THE SENTINEL

PULF (Azad) cadre apprehended

SILCHAR, Sept 25: The jawans of Red Shield Division (11 Field Regiment) apprehended a ‘chief project officer’ and ‘finance-in-charge’ of the People’s United Liberation Front (PULF of Azad faction) of Dimapur city from Ujan Tarapur area under Lakhipur police station. The PULF cadre has been identified as Md Raquib Uddin (27) of Ujan Tarapur, 15 km from here. During interrogation, its was revealed that he was looking after the Dimapur zone for his outfit and used to visit Guwahati frequently.

The Army was keeping close watch on this militant for a long time before finally apprehending him from his house. Further grilling led to the recovery of a pistol and two sharp weapons from his residence. He was later on handed over to Lakhipur police station for further interrogation. THE SENTINEL

The Dalai Lama must visit Arunachal

O h yes, you have read the reports right. Monks at the Tawang monastery and elsewhere in Arunachal Pradesh are indeed praying for a hassle-free visit of His Holiness, the Dalai Lama,” the second head priest of the Tawang monastery, Lama Lopon, told me as I reached him on his cell phone this week. Special prayers by these Buddhist monks for a smooth visit to the area in mid-November by the exiled Tibetan spiritual leader are being held in the first place because China has decided to oppose his visit. The reason for Beijing’s opposition to the Dalai Lama’s visit to Arunachal Pradesh is obvious — it claims almost the whole of that State as its own.

The timing of Beijing’s muscle flexing over the Dalai Lama’s proposed visit to Arunachal Pradesh is significant. It has come in the wake of reports of increased Chinese intrusion into India. Well, India has sought to downplay, if not deny, the reports about the Chinese intrusions. Both New Delhi and Beijing have called such reports as ‘media hype’. Obviously, by the media in India! Our National Security Adviser M K Narayanan has gone to the extent of saying in a television interview that the media hype on the issue must stop or else it could actually flare up the situation along the Sino-Indian border. India says channels of communication are open with the Chinese and there is no cause for worry.

There is no reason why we should not believe those who are running our country. I am not sure though if we should have blind faith in their wisdom. Yes, India and China cannot afford a war now. And the Chinese must understand that year 2009 is not 1962 when the Red Army made a successful foray into this part of India. We would now like to believe that the Indian military machine today is in a position to successfully repulse the Chinese if need be. Having said that, one would agree with the Indian establishment that friendly relations between the two Asian giants is the need of the hour, purely for reasons related to global commerce and geo-politics. The border dispute can be put in an altogether different basket and life must go on.

Now back to the Dalai Lama issue. It is on this that New Delhi finds itself on a slippery wicket. But, the Dalai Lama must visit Arunachal Pradesh and New Delhi must see to it that he does so. If anybody in India thinks that letting His Holiness visit Arunachal Pradesh as planned could escalate tension with China must realize that Beijing would get an opportunity to reinforce its claim on the whole of Arunachal Pradesh if we are to be bothered about Chinese feelings on the matter. Of course, External Affairs Minister S M Krishna’s recent statement was reassuring. He said: “Arunachal Pradesh is a part of India and Dalai Lama is free to go anywhere in India. The only point is that he is not expected to comment on political developments.”

The Tibetan spiritual leader, seen by his followers as a God-king, had made several earlier visits to Tawang and other parts of Arunachal Pradesh. The Dalai Lama’s visit to the area always assumes special significance because it was through Tawang, perched at an altitude of 10,000 feet above sea level, that he had escaped from China in 1959 and entered India as a young man. “People are eagerly waiting to welcome the Dalai Lama. The Chinese must not link his visit to Sino-Indian ties,” T G Rinpoche, a Buddhist leader and a former MLA in Arunachal Pradesh, said.

The questions is why should China be so obsessed with Tawang or Arunachal Pradesh as a whole? Some of the main reasons could be:

• Arunachal Pradesh can give China access to the Brahmaputra Valley and the rest of north-eastern India
• China will gain contiguity with Bhutan in its eastern flank also if Arunachal Pradesh could be gained
• Unlike the Aksai-Chin, India has the benefit of all-weather communication lines to the Chinese frontier through Arunachal Pradesh
• The Tibetans have an emotional attachment with the famous Tawang Monastery, founded by the Merak Lama, Lodre Gyatso, in 1681 in accordance with the wishes of the 5th Dalai Lama, Nagwang Lobsang Gyatso. Moreover, the sixth Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso, was born in Tawang.
The Chinese wish list can be dismissed as mere fantasy, but the fact remains that the frontiers of these two Asian nations met for the first time in history only when China annexed Tibet in 1950. China then decided to wage a war against India, and that too within just a little more than a decade after becoming the latter’s neighbour.

If that is history, this is not: as recently as on 11 April 2005, during the visit to India by Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, India and China had signed an agreement on the ‘Political Parameters and Guiding Principles for the Settlement of the India-China Boundary Question.’ Article VII of this agreement says, “In reaching a boundary settlement, the two sides shall safeguard due interests of their settled populations in the border areas.” China has since blatantly violated the spirit of this agreement by repeatedly renewing its claim over Tawang or Arunachal Pradesh as a whole. Am I surprised at this U-turn or whatever turn? No, if one is talking about the Chinese. THE SENTINEL

Asom scientist a core member of Chandrayaan-1

GUWAHATI/NEW DELHI, Sept 25: The scientific team of Chandrayaan-I was led by M3 principal investigator Carle Pieters, a planetary geologist at Brown University in Rhode Island, and JN Goswami, principal scientist of Chandrayaan-1 from Physical Research Laboratory (PRL) of the Indian Department of Space.

JN Goswami hails from Jorhat in Asom. He is the elder brother of AGP general secretary and former MLA Hitendra Goswami. He had his school education in Jorhat.

Chandrayaan-I, had made a “path-breaking and real discovery” by establishing the presence of water on the moon in June itself, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) said on Friday.
India’s own Moon Impact Probe (MIP) on board the country’s maiden lunar craft had discovered water on the moon in June, a finding confirmed by US space agency NASA’s probe that was also on board Chandrayaan-1, India’s top space scientist G Madhavan Nair said here.
While expressing pride in the achievement, Nair clarified: “But the water is not in the form of sea or lake or puddle or drops. It is embedded on the surface in minerals and rocks.” Apart from India’s MIP, NASA’s Moon Mineralogy Mapper (M3) on board Chandrayaan-1 confirmed the presence of water. The lunar mission had to be aborted August 30 after it lost radio contact with Earth. According to Nair, the “quantity found is much larger than expected”. On whether water can be extracted, Nair said: “Yes, we can. But one tonne of soil may yield half a litre.” Nair said MIP picked up signals about the presence of water as it journeyed down to land on the moon surface.

“One of the main objectives of Chandrayaan-1 was to look for the presence of water. Our MIP confirmed it.”

“The volume of data collected from Chandrayaan-1 is phenomenal. It may take six months to three years to analyse it.”

In a paper published in Science Express, September 24 edition, M3 principal investigator Carle Pieters said that Chandrayaan-1 found evidence of water on the lunar surface.

The scientist said that traces of water and hydroxyl, a molecule consisting of one oxygen atom and one hydrogen atom, was found in the lunar soil, closer to the polar region.

The experts concluded that traces of OH and H20 were in the form of a thin layer embedded in rocks and chemical compounds on the surface of the moon and the quantity were extremely small - of the order of about 700 parts per million (ppm).

There were 11 scientific instruments onboard Chandrayaan that ISRO launched October 22, 2008.

Pieters credited ISRO for its role in the findings, and said: “If it were not for them (ISRO), we would not have been able to make this discovery.”

The scientific feat has been termed a landmark event in international space cooperation between India and other countries. IANS

The team had concluded that there were traces of hydroxyl (OH) and water (H2O) molecules on the surface of the moon closer to the polar region. THE SENTINEL

Is IBRF on the path of revival?

SILCHAR, Aug 25: When various militant outfits across the Northeast have shown their inclination to draw curtain on jungle warfare and return to the mainstream of society, there are disturbing developments also, as monitored by intelligence agencies, that attempts are on to revive the Indo-Burma Revolutionary Front (IBRF).

The IBRF was formed by the ULFA, NSCN (K) and the UNLF on May 22, 1990 in the Kachin hinterland of Myanmar, erstwhile Burma. The declaration, a copy of which is with The Sentinel, signed jointly by NSCN-K chairman SS Khaplang, ULFA chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa and UNLF general secretary Sana Yaima vowed to build up a united struggle for the independence of Indo-Burma region dominated by ethnic tribes. It targeted New Delhi as their sworn enemy from whose clutch the “oppressed” people of the region “have to be liberated”.

The revival of the Front is being mooted in view of the disturbed bases and camps of the ULFA, 27 in number, spread over the 10 districts of Moulvibazar, Bandarban, Mymensingh, Sherpur, Sylhet, Kurigram, Tangrail, Cox’s Bazar, Rangamati and Sunamganj. These camps have come under the close surveillance of Bangladesh Government under diplomatic pressure from India. According to inputs from across the border, these training and transit camps are maintaining low profile.

There are no confirmed reports that the camps have been dismantled by the Bangladesh security forces. Top ULFA leaders cooling their heels so long find it no more safe to flex their muscles on Bangladesh soil. They are reported to have sought refuge in other countries. Their efforts to regroup in Bhutan too have been aborted by the Indo-Bhutan security forces.

As best option, the ULFA has turned to the NSCN-K, its old ally. The Khaplang faction has no camp in Bangladesh. Its operational headquarters and training camps are located in Kachin and Shan provinces of Myanmar bordering Manipur, Nagaland and Mizoram with easy access to Yunan region of China. These are known as guerilla hinterland or route where in the mid-80’s the ULFA had joined hands with the NSCN for training and supply of arms and ammunition. After operations by the Indian security forces assisted by that of Junta Government of Myanmar in which more than 150 Northeast militants belonging to the PLA, UNLF and the ULFA were killed in the early 1990’s, the ULFA found it safe to move to Bangladesh to reinforce its existing presence. The UNLF, which has only two camps at Bhanugach and Srimangal in Bangladesh, too has wound them up and moved to Myanmar.

Significantly, the IBRF is being reactivated with logistic and military support of Chin and Kachin extremists. Arms and ammunition are shipped through clandestine routes of northern Thailand and China. According to intelligence reports, the PLA has also of late become an ally. ULFA ‘commander-in-chief’ Paresh Barua, NSCN leader S S Khaplang and UNLF general secretary Sana Yaima are, according to a report, working for revival of the IBRF. THE SENTINEL

District-level security reviewed

SILCHAR, Sept 24: The over all security scenario of Cachar was reviewed at a district-level meeting of the coordination committee on security in the conference hall of the district administration presided over by Cachar Deputy Commissioner Gautam Ganguly today. Besides this, development progress of different departments also came up for discussion.

The deputy commissioner advised the ASEB to ensure uninterrupted supply of power during the festive days of puja. The tea garden managements were asked not to use ASEB electricity during the puja days for their factories.

Puja committees have also been suggested to keep generator for their mandaps and pandals ready as stand by. And the PWD (R) has been advised to repair the cobbled roads.

The additional Deputy Commissioners, DSP police hqrs, Army, BSF, BSNL, ONGC, CRPF, Indian Oil and BSF officials were also present at the meeting. THE SENTINEL

Majhi witnesses failure of Brahmaputra Board in Majuli

JORHAT, Sept 23: Asom Water Resources Minister Prithibi Majhi visited the erosion-affected Majuli Island today. He took stock of the highly eroded Bengenauti, Dakhinpat, Sarnashree and the Jengrai area of the river island. In his visit, the minister, who was accompanied by a number of top officials of Brahmaputra Board and Water Resource Department, witnessed the failures of both the department projects in Majuli and assured the people of taking necessary steps in conformity with the techniques of modern science and technology to protect the historic island. He also said that he would talk to the minister concerned of the Central Government in this regard soon.

The Majuli Suraksha Samannya Mancha has submitted a memorandum to the Water Resource Minister regarding the condition of the island and failures of the Government departments come up with protection measures. In the memorandum, the organization emphatically said that both the Government departments failed in Majuli for the short-sightedness of the department officials. They also said, “The Brahmaputra Board has not at all been able to protect Majuli from erosion, although crores of Government funds have been used up”. They mentioned that if the erosion continues at the current pace, the days are not far when the largest fresh water island in the world will become a history.

Their memorandum also included a permanent erosion-protection scheme for Majuli, execution of five stone spur projects in South Majuli, protection of xatras and immediate measures for Sonowal Kachari, Besamora, Dakhinpat, Bengenauti, Upper Sonowal, Bhakat Sapori, Mohorichook, Charighoria, Molualkalita, Misamora, Gopalchook, Sarnashree, Selek, Jakaikhowakalia, Mohuramukh and Jengraimukh area.

They also demanded of the authorities to take up the protection measures in October/November and to complete in April/May. They alleged that the Brahmaputra Board did not take up any permanent protection measures in Majuli this year. THE SENTINEL

36 DHD-J cadres yet to surrender

SILCHAR, Sept 23: The much-hyped ceremonial surrender of the Black Widow seems to have faced a jolt as 36 cadres of the outfit have reportedly preferred jungle life to mainstream of society. A source told The Sentinel that at least 36 militants refused to join their comrades who had already surrendered their arms before the district administration. It was declared that ceremonial surrender would take place on September 24 in presence of Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi. Official sources now hinted that formal surrender of the militants might be held on October 2. Meanwhile, cracks seem to have surfaced in the Dimasa outfit as a number of militants have turned down the offer made by their leaders to surrender along with arms. Sources close to the outfit told The Sentinel that at least 36 militants were hiding in a jungle near Khejuwari under Dihangi PS. This group is led by self-styled lieutenant Ganga Dimasa alias Galamla, Karam Dimasa, 2nd lieutenant and Dipu Dimasa. They have reportedly refused to surrender.

Meanwhile, the International Red Cross Society has expressed reservation for housing the surrendered militants in its hospital in Jatinga without taking its prior permission. THE SENTINEL

A ‘Global Festival’ to seek divine blessings

GUWAHATI, Sept 23: The Brahma Kumaris are organizing a nationwide programme titled ‘Global Festival for Receiving God’s Powers and Blessings’ from October till the third week of November this year.

At a press conference today in Guwahati, National Co-ordinator of the Scientists and Engineering Wing of Prajapita Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalaya, BK Mohan Singhal said,“In Northeast India the Global Festival will start in Guwahati on October 1 and conclude on October 4. We hope this Global Festival will have the desired impact in transforming the world to be a better place to live in.”

The Global Festival will be held at the Assam Engineering Institute playground at Chandmari in the city. Meghalaya Governor RS Mooshahary will be the chief guest of the Festival on October 4. “Apart from divine lectures and words of wisdom by senior Rajyoga teachers, a mass meditation will be conducted by 108 Rajyogi Brahma Kumaris. There will also be soul elevating cultural performances like a flute recital by 51 artistes lead by Deepak Sarma, Bhakti Bhavana group dance in xattriya form by Nrittyacharya Padmashree Jatin Goswami and Komal Sparsh Nritya with 151 pots on the head by Kumari Priya Patni from Bhilwara in Rajasthan,” said Singhal.

There will also be a ‘Jeevan Darshan Mela’ from October 1-October 4 and the highlights of the mela will be stalls based on the themes of holistic health, youth awakening, disaster management, women empowerment, drug re-addiction, ancient Indian Rajyoga and realization of God, added Singhal.

Prajapita Brahma Kumaris Ishwariya Vishwa Vidyalaya sub-zone in-charge BK Sheela said at the press conference,“The world is developing at a fast pace and at the same time people are facing more and more problems everyday. They cannot solve these problems alone. They need to seek divine power. We have organized the Global Festival with this intention.” THE SENTINEL

BPF felicitates meritorious students

KOKRAJHAR, Sept 23: The Debargaon Block Committee of the Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) felicitated the meritorious students who passed the last HSLC under SEBA and CBSE and HSSLC examination with distinction marks at Bessi Memorial English Medium School, Gaurang Tiniali recently.

Altogether 93 students under SEBA and CBSE who secured highest marks in the last HSLC examination and 28 students of HSSLC were felicitated in the ceremony by the Minister of Agriculture and WPT&BC, Pramila Rani Brahma. The Meritorious students were felicitated with a traditional Aronai and cash of Rs 5,000 to each and citation. Besides, as many as ten schools which has been showing good results every year were also given a lump sum Rs 10,000 each on the occasion.

The chief guest of the function, Pramila Rani Brahma, called upon the guardians and students to concentrate in qualitative education to compete with other States. She also asked the teachers to be more dedicated in their duties for quality education.

The secretary of Debargaon Block BPF, Kwrwmdao Basumatary, gave the welcome address. The function was chaired by the president of Debargaon Block BPF, Robilochan Ray. THE SENTINEL

Hmar boy arrested

Special Correspondent

SILCHAR, Sept 23: A team of Silchar police arrested one Ramsangliana Hmar (25) from his residence at Digar Fulertal under Lakhipur police station recently. A hand-made pistol was recovered from his possession. He was brought to Silchar for interrogation though any link with underground outfits has not yet been established. THE SENTINEL

Lumding College Golden jubilee celebrated

From our Correspondent
NAGAON, Sept 23: Lumding College celebrated its golden jubilee along with its foundation day in a day-long programme held recently. The programme began with the hoisting of flag by College principal Ashok Kumar Paul.

A public meeting was also held on the occasion which was attended by a host of dignitaries. Local MLA Sushil Kumar Dutta who attended the meeting as chief guest inaugurated it by lighting an earthen lamp while College chairperson Maya Chakravorty addressed the function as the guest of honour. Chakravorty, in her speech, appealed to the people gathered in the meeting to work unitedly for the all round development of the College. THE SENTINEL

Body of youth found

From our Staff Reporter
SILCHAR, Sept 23: The body of Janmajoy Das alias Raju who was reportedly missing since Friday last, from his home town Lala, was found along the Indo-Bangla border near Sonapur in Meghalaya yesterday. Police officials along with the family members of Raju rushed to the spot to bring back the body.

Sources said Janmajoy (24), son of subdivisional medical officer Dr Jayanta Das, was last seen on Friday on a rickshaw, though he had his own motorcycle. Janmajay had a shop in Manindra Market in Lala town. Dr Das filed an FIR in Lala police station on the next day but his mutilated body was found lying in a jungle near Sonapur last morning.

On the other hand, Janmajoy’s sister, who was married in Hailakandi, was burnt to death in her in-law’s house, sources said. Dr Das alleged that his daughter, Rupasree Das Sarma, was murdered by her in-laws and that Janmajoy was dealing with the case and his murder has now taken a mysterious turn after this matter has come into light. A police source said that the murderer was reportedly known to the victim as he had boarded a bus to Shillong after reportedly receiving a phone call though both his mobile phones are missing. THE SENTINEL

ABYSA submits memorandum to Cachar DC

SILCHAR, Sept 23: The All Barak Youth Students’ Association (ABYSA) submitted a memorandum to the Cachar DC demanding immediate release of Shailendra Chandra Das, who was arrested by the Army, stating him to be innocent of all charges. The association, in the memorandum, stated that Das is an honest person and teacher of repute and used to vociferously protest against the corrupt practices in the Dungripar Gaon Panchayat.

The ABYSA also said that Das was an upright social worker of Dungripar village, Banskandi area, and the corrupt panchayat members were always in trouble due to his constant protests. They, therefore, allegedly fabricated a case against him saying that he had arms in his possession after which he was arrested in an army operation.

The ABYSA further said that Das’s arrest was a conspiracy allegedly hatched by the panchayat members to suppress his voice against them. The association, therefore, demanded his immediate release and investigation into the corruption charges against the Dungripar village gaon panchayat in the memorandum. THE SENTINEL

144 CrPC promulgated

SILCHAR, Sept 23: In order to maintain law and order and to check unlawful activities, the Additional Deputy Magistrate of Cachar has, by an order, promulgated 144 CrPC in view of the ensuing Durga Puja. According to the promulgation, pillion riding has been prohibited. This will, however, not be applicable on Army personnel, paramilitary forces and police, besides women and children below age of 12 years. This order will remain in force until further notification. In a related order, the District Magistrate of Cachar has declared September 26 and 27 as ‘dry day’ and closure of all wine shops during the period. THE SENTINEL

Ex-servicemen misusing Army

SILCHAR, Sept 23: Strange as it may seem, the Army is often being misused by ex-servicemen or unscrupulous elements to settle personal scores or for self-aggrandisement. A latest instance of this is the arrest of Shailendra Chandra Das, a school teacher, by the Army and subsequently his detention by the police has raised many questions. Is the army being misguided and misused?

People in general irrespective of caste and creed of his native village Dungripar and adjoining places under Sonai police station burst out in anger and protested against his arrest, alleging he was a victim of the conspiracy hatched by Dungripar Gaon Panchayat President Nasir Ahmed Choudhury.

The protesters in hundreds said in unison that Shailendra Chandra Das, a popular teacher of integrity, had been crusading against the corrupt practices of the Gaon Panchayat in implementing centrally sponsored rural schemes. He was implicated in cooked up charges of keeping arms within the premises of his house, pointed out elderly citizens like Achintya Das and Hazi Hibjur Rahman.

Around 200 residents of Dungripar and other villages assembled before the CJM Court here on Monday, demanding release of Das. The following day, the All Barak Youth and Students’ Association (ABYSA) staged a demonstration before the Cachar Deputy Commissioner’s office seeking his intervention for the sake of justice to Das.

ABYSA president Baharul Islam Barbhuiya said, in a statement, whenever any individual protests against the corruption of Gaon Panchayat, he “is implicated in fabricated charges”. He added that when his organization held demonstration against the corruption in Banskandi block in June, 2008, some of his members were arrested by police on fabricated charges by the unholy nexus between the BDO and politicians. Significantly, Dungripar GP President Nasir Ahmed Choudhury, an ex-service man, influenced the Army to play second fiddle to his design to settle personal vendetta against Das and stifle the voice of protest against him.

There have been several such cases in the past. In August 2003, the house of septuagenarian Karbari Chakma of Binnakandie under Lakhipur police station was raided by the Army at midnight. His licensed gun was seized while a pistol was planted to implicate him under the Arms Act by his adversaries. The fault of the old man was that he resisted attempts against some people of the area to grab the land of tribals. The matter went up to the Union Home Ministry.

In another instance in 2005, some youths of Bihara under Katigorah police station were arrested by the Army from their houses on cooked up charges that they were in possession of unauthorized arms. It was at the intervention of the district BJP leaders that they were released.

In the following year, for tea garden worker Rajdeo Rabidas of Dilkhoosh Tea Garden under Lakhipur police station, it was the same tale as the Army from Dilkhoosh camp lifted Rabidas from his house, took him to their camp and beat him up.

He was falsely charged with links with extremists and business in contraband goods. His fault was that he had filed a case in the police station against one Shital Prasad over land dispute. Prasad influenced ex-service man Chandradeep Koiri who in turn used the Army to suppress him to withdraw the case. THE SENTINEL

New political party demands for separate State

UDALGURI, Sept 21: A new political outfit –– United Democratic Party Front (UDPF)–– came into existence in a two-day political convention organized by the Indigenous Tribal People’s Federation at Udalguri. The Bodo, Rabha, Mising, Tiwa, Deuri, Sonowal, Thengal, Kachari, Rajbonshi, Chutia, Karbi, Hajong, Garo and Moran-Motok communities assembled and discussed their common problems of the State in the federation. The party selected Kanta Kumar Narzary as its president and Tulsi Manar Rabha as its general secretary.

The political party raised the issues of NDFB, UPDS and DHD and urged the Union Government to initiate political peace talks. They also urged the government for the inclusion of Rabha, Mising, Tiwa, Sonowal, Deuri and Thengal Autonomous Councils into sixth schedule of the Indian Constitution and to conduct elections, to schedule Koch-Rajbonshi, Chutia, Moran and Motok communities without disturbing the quotas of plain tribes, to grant tribal status to Rabha and Bodo people living in the Karbi Anglong district, autonomies to the Mech-Kachari people and Kacharis living in plain areas, re-demarcation of constituencies of Asom and to update the citizens register, to take appropriate actions to stop influx from Bangladesh Bhutan and Nepal and a separate State comprising the Bodo, Rabha, Mising, Tiwa, Sonowal and Thengal autonomies and Tribal dominated areas of Asom. THE SENTINEL

A tribute to Dr Lohit Chandra Goswami

Dr Lohit Chandra Goswami passed away on September 22, 1989, when he was just 54. Deuta is no more with us. But, to this day, even after 20 years, his family, friends and associates continue to feel his presence to their bones.

A person filled with magnanimity and modesty, Deuta could always be found in his table smoking, surrounded by students, family, friends. He was never alone. A loving father, a loving teacher and a loving husband, Deuta’s intellectual integrity, indomitable courage and simplicity were proverbial. In midst of corruption and degradation, people like Deuta inspired and humanised mankind.

Born on September 29, 1935, at Palla Satra near Sarthebari in Barpeta district, Deuta passed his matriculation in 1950 with flying colours with letter marks in English and Sanskrit from Sarukhetri High School. Thereafter, he did his ISC from St Edmunds College Shillong and BA with honours in Education from Cotton College Guwahati. He completed his Masters in Education from Gauhati University in 1956 and MA in English from Benaras Hindu University. Deuta’s professional life started at the Rangiya Basic Training Centre, though he was there for a short time. Soon he joined Darrang College as a lecturer in Education when late Bipin Pal Das was the Principal. After that he moved on to Jowai Government College in Meghalaya and there he completed his Ph D from Gauhati University in 1976.

He was very good teacher and well loved by students. Teaching remained his first love and the beaming faces of his students in his classes used to give him pleasure. He joined the Tezpur Teacher’s Training College (now known as College of Teacher Education, Tezpur) on January 1, 1980, and served there till July 9, 1989, as a principal.

During his short span of life, Deuta has had the credit of getting his few books published which are still used in degree courses like Current Problems of Indian Education, Essentials of Education, Guide to Elements of Education etc. Besides, writing books he also wrote numerous articles both in English and Asomiya. Apart from all these, Deuta was a staunch lover of music, movies and sports. He was a good singer and knew how to play a host of musical instruments like the guitar, mandolin, harmonium, banzo and the like. All in all he was a man of all seasons.

On August 21, 1989, he has joined as the Principal of DIET in Biswanath Charali and just a month later ie on September 22, 1989, he bid adieu to this world. But Deuta will be always with us. His memories are still with us. Writing a tribute to this multifaceted personality who is my ideal is not an easy task. I know where ever you are Deuta, you are always with us, blessing us. Don’t worry about Ma as she is with us well looked after. May your soul rest in peace.
Meenakshi Goswami
THE SENTINEL

DHD’s arms bazaar spread across Southeast

SILCHAR, Sept 21: After the leaders and cadres of Dima Halam Daogah (DHD-J), also known as Black Widow, surrendered with arms and ammunition, many facts about its ever widening tie ups and sources of weapons have come into the lime light. In fact, the arms shopping of the outfit has stunned the security circles. Besides, having its nexus with NSCN (IM), NDFB and other groups, it has been trying to establish links with Maoists.

Though intelligence agencies have specifically identified only one camp of the outfit at Nursurei Punji under Kullora police station in Moulvibazar district of Bangladesh, confessions by rebels from time to time have, however, revealed their strong presence in the neighbouring country for logistic and arms training, besides easy access to arsenal from diverse sources, particularly during the Khaleda Zia regime.

The coming to power of Awami League Government led by Begum Sheikh Hasina and the tightening noose around Northeast rebels as well as the very effective operation by the Indian security forces against them, the militant outfits in varying degrees have begun to feel the heat. Most important, in its own native district, DHD has lost emotional support and has been facing resistance from other ethnic tribes. Jewel Gorlosa can hardly miss the stark reality of outcry for peace in the Hills district where its own Dimasa people have been the worst victims of resultant violence.

In fact, safe corridor through the dense forest of the district to extensive international border to seek shelter in Bangladesh and Myanmar and procure arms and ammunition has sustained militancy. Added to it, large scale diversion of development funds as revealed by the Manisena Singh Commission of Inquiry and National Investigation Agency has provided fodder to the terror mill. Even the role of a former Governor of Asom in this diversion of funds has been questioned by NIA.

DHD (J) ‘Commander-in-Chief ’ Niranjan Hojai, located somewhere in China, used to oversee illegal trafficking of arms from Southeast Asia to North Cachar Hills via Mizoram. In the fast changing scenario, the break away faction of DHD (J) led by James Dimasa with 70 cadres opting out of peace no more worries the security circles as a multidimensional strategy is in place in the Hills district with strong presence of well coordinated forces and the army under the command of Brigade headquarters at Haflong. Efforts of the Jewel Gorlosa group to tie up with Maoists to procure sophisticated fabrication and IEDs through the infamous Chicken Neck Corridor could not succeed due to mounting vigilance.

The assortment of arms and ammunition, so far, deposited by the militants include AK-47 series, M-16 rifles, a few Insas rifles, rocket launchers and grenades and the marks on them indicated these were procured by the leaders and their agents through underground avenues from China and South East Asia, particularly Thailand and Myanmar. The jungle routes from Myanmar to Mizoram were meticulously utilized.

The gunrunners from Chin tribe worked as couriers to transship the arms to North Cachar Hills once they reached Champai in Mizoram’s western flank. In limelight came the notorious arms dealer Lal Liana (41) who over the years had masterminded the shipment of arms from Mizoram to North Cachar Hills.

Moreover, Kolkata too emerged as an important centre of arms supply to Black Widow. It is to be recalled that, investigating into an arms haul in Asom in February and April last, the National Investigation Agency came across the names of two Black Widow militants identified as Malsawmkimi and George Lalthang.

While Malsawmkimi is a resident of Ranlun Vngthan under Bumgkum police station, Lalthang lives in Aizwal. Both were frequent visitors to Kolkata and stayed in hotel or private residences. They were arrested by the Special Task Force police recently. THE SENTINEL

Employees to organize dharna

HAFLONG, Sept 20: The NC Hills Autonomous Council Employees Association has decided to organize a dharna in protest against the non-payment of salaries to the Council Normal employees for the last five months.

At a meeting held in Haflong yesterday, the employees association have decided to hold a dharna with effect from September 22 to September 24 at the Council main gate. The meeting further resolved to take agitation programme after Durga Puja if their grievances are not met at the earliest. This was stated in a press release.

Bail plea of Hojai rejected

GUWAHATI, Sept 19: A division bench of the Gauhati Court comprising Acting Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi and Justice Hrishikesh Roy today rejected the bail plea of former NC Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC) Chief Executive Member (CEM) Mohet Hojai, Social Welfare Department RH Khan and bank official Samir Ahmed. The High Court, however, allowed Khan to meet his ailing mother for two hours under tight security. THE SENTINEL

Manobar Nath– The hero of 1942 freedom movement

“My home is in Nagaon. There is nobody with me as my own family but I consider all the people living here as my near and dear ones. My life will be meaningful if I can dedicate it to the cause of our country. I have joined the ‘Mrityu Bahini’ (Death Squad) first and therefore nobody has the right to die before me. Now please give me the chance to lay down my life for the freedom of my motherland”.

This was the appeal and death-defying pledge of Manobar Nath, the day before he died in the hands of British Police Force.

During India’s struggle for freedom, a decision was taken under the guidance of Jyoti Prasad Agarwala to take out a huge procession to Dhekiajuli and Gohpur Police Stations to dismantle the British National Flag– ‘Union Jack’, and hoist India’s Tri-Colour on the roof tops of the thanas. Young Manobar was selected as the leader of the ‘Mrityu Bahini’ to hoist the flag on Dhekiajuli PS and Kishori Kanaklata was selected for hoisting the flag at Gohpur PS. According to Jyoti Prasad’s plan, with entire allegiance to the Gandhiji’s ‘Do or Die’, Manobar Nath took the responsibilities to complete the task in order to assert our right and interest. The well tutored squad leader was ready and after a customary ritual of lighting lamps, burning incense sticks and putting a vermillion mark on his forehead, Manobar led the huge procession from Johamari to Dhekiajuli PS. Inspired by the fiery melody of Jyoti Prasad’s challenging vision of freedom, thousands of people came out to join the procession spontaneously. The volunteers from Ghatua, Kawoimari, Nahorbari, Borgaon, Thelamora and Keheru Khanda also joined in on the way. From the Western side– people came around from Borsola, Hugrajuli and Singori to join the freedom march covering as long as 11 miles towards the police station. When the people arrived near the police station, the police authority threatened the masses with dire consequences that if anybody dared to enter the police station. But the whole crowd of people marched towards it defying the police’s threatening and the police sepoys resorted to lathi charge.

In the meantime, amidst the chaotic situation prevailing there, Manobar climbed up to the roof of the police station and he threw away the British Flag and hoisted the National Tri-Colour. A gunshot was heard and in that split second action ended the life of this valiant son of the country. He fell down and said “Raiz (People) I am leaving, I will die but our country must be freed”, saying these words, the patriotic Manobar breathed his last.

Then there came the second hero of freedom. His name was Chandra Kanta Nath. While Manobar fell, Chandra Kanta promptly took hold of the Tri-Colour and raised it. In no time the thuds and thirsts of lathis and bayonets forced Chandra Kanta to fall down. He was severely injured. This was followed by the arrival of Golak Chandra Neog, who tuned in ‘Freedom is Wealth or else Death’. Neog tried to lift the Tri-Colour from Chandra Kanta’s hand while uttering ‘Vande Mataram’. The brutal police force of the British Police Empire pointed their guns towards this brave freedom fighter and were about to fire but in no time a 63 year old Satyagrahi volunteer Kumoli Devi, who was also the mother of Golak Chandra Neog, came in front of the British guns and the bullets pierced through her chest. She died on the spot. The valiant mother sacrificed her life at the alter of mother India.

Now there were only cries, moans, groans and confusion. That day was a fateful day of bloodshed, death and agony. To add to all this, there was the sacrifice of the life of Khahuli Devi. Despite her pregnancy, she accompanied her husband Punaram Nath as a processionist and reached the Dhekiajuli PS.

In spite of being the mother of two small children, she put her country before her family and hence left her two small children’s at home. She tried to enter the police campus, but a single gunshot silenced her forever. To acquire freedom, they laid down their lives for the cause of their motherland. They became martyrs. All these great sons and daughters of the country possessed supreme qualities of patriotism and it seemed as if they were born to sacrifice themselves at the alter of India’s freedom struggle and become immortal, leaving the fragrance of their patriotism and love of their motherland in everybody’s hearts.

As a poet said– “Luitor Aakhahot Torar Torawali Parot Deepawali, Tezere Mur Aai Nekandibi, Thaponat Tejere Bonti Dilehi Lora, Suwaliye Tur”.

Today at the auspicious day of Swahid Manobar Nath Smriti Divas, the Nath Yogi Community of Assam respectfully and proudly remembers our forefathers for the supreme sacrifices they made for our country along with all the other National heroes such as Konaklota Borua, Mukunda Kakoti, Bhogeswari Phukanani and many other known and unknown heroes of the freedom struggle of India. Oh martyrs, we salute you for your sacrifices. We won’t let your sacrifices go in vain, we will always keep you alive in our hearts. Jai Hind.
–Dhiren Nath THE SENTINEL

Countering China

India should frame strategies to match China militarily, economically and diplomatically, so that it does not have to play a second fiddle in Asian and global affairs

As reported in The Sentinel (September 17, 2009), the Chinese intruded into the Indian territory in the Ladakh region of Jammu & Kashmir and even dared to mark many rocks on heights of 22,000 feet and above with China’s name, thereby trying to establish claims on those areas as being part of China. There were past instances of the Chinese government dispatching its PLA men and intelligence officials into Indian territories in Arunachal Pradesh in civilian clothes and later claiming that they had strayed into Indian soil while in search of medicinal herbs.

It appears that in response to the threats posed by China, the Government of India has taken up road development projects in Arunachal Pradesh and also started deployment of two additional divisions of the Indian Army in that sector, apart from deploying four squadrons of Sukhoi fighter planes at Tezpur. But in spite of the presence of our Army in considerable strength, no shots were fired from the Indian side to stop the trespassing PLA men either in Arunachal Pradesh or in Ladakh. We do not consider it adequate just to improve airports in Ladakh and post additional forces in Arunachal Pradesh, but remain as silent spectators when the aggressive, land-hungry Chinese government directs its military to intrude into our land. The present government at the Centre must understand that the people of the country have mandated the UPA government with the belief that it would take every necessary measure under a well-drawn strategy for safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country.

The New York Times (September 4, 2009) published a long report on the Indo-China border dispute with special reference to Tawang entitled ‘‘China and India Dispute Enclave on Edge of Tibet’’, with the sub-heading ‘‘Border is Militarized — A Himalayan Tinderbox is Straining Relation between Two Giants”. The report has mentioned about the military build-up on both sides of the international borders by India and China, near Tawang, which is just 23 miles away from the border with China. “The growing belligerence has soured relations between the two Asian giants and has prompted one Indian military leader to declare that China has replaced Pakistan as India’s biggest threat,” states the report. It also says, “Economic progress might be expected to bring the countries closer. China and India did $52 billion worth of trade last year, a 34 per cent increase over 2007. But business people say border tensions have infused business deals with official interference, damping the willingness of Chinese and Indian companies to invest in each other’s countries. The roots of the conflict go back to China’s territorial claims to Tibet, an enduring source of friction between China and many foreign nations. China insists that this section of Northeast India has historically been part of Tibet and should be part of China.” On the other side, the monks at Tawang monastery, an important centre of Tibetan learning, “express rage over Chinese rule in Tibet, which the Chinese Army seized in 1951.”

The report goes back to history and says that Tawang became part of modern India when Tibetan leaders signed a treaty with British officials in 1914 that established a border called the McMahon Line between Tibet and British-run India. Tawang fell south of the line. The Simla Convention is not recognized by China. While the report makes no mention of India recognizing Tibet as a part of China, though the latter seized it by sheer brute power, we strongly feel that it was a blunder committed by our leaders, as it has failed to assuage the hostile attitude of China towards India as also its expansionist designs against India. On the one hand, we have given asylum to Dalai Lama to fuel China’s anger against us, and on the other hand, we have not supported the Tibetan cause and have failed to score any point over China. A military and economic superpower, China wants to have its diktats dominate the Asian politico-economic-military scene, and should India fail to match China militarily, economically and diplomatically, India would have to play second fiddle not only in Asia but also in global affairs. Now is the time our leaders must realize the grim realities and take steps to ensure that our interests are duly safeguarded.

On the economic front, China stands to pose as the main rival of the US by building up huge reserves of $2.3 trillion, with huge trade surpluses with the West during the last decade. A report of The New York Times (August 24, 2009) titled “Asia’s Recovery Highlights China’s Ascendance” states that for the first time, the catalyst is coming from China and the rest of Asia, where resurgent economies are helping the still-shaky West recover from the deepest recession since World War II. The report observes, “China’s government-dominated, top-down economy is surging after Chinese banks doled out more than $1 trillion in loans in the first half of the year, in addition to a nearly $600 billion government stimulus program.” Interestingly, China already has a kitty of American bonds worth $2 trillion, which is real economic power with China to keep the United States under pressure. Though India has also contributed significantly towards economic recovery, it has not received a mention in the newspaper report.

So, it is time for India to also learn from China so that it could match China’s growing economic power to become a world leader. Experts have opined, as quoted by The New York Times, that “Asia is still relatively small in the world, but it reflects how the world is changing and economic power does translate, of course, into political power. You can use it to win friends and influence people, as the Chinese are already doing in Africa and Latin America”. Well, the Chinese are doing that in Asia too, more particularly to woo India’s neighbours — Myanmar, Nepal, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Sri Lanka

India should try hard to cultivate friendship with all its neighbouring countries by increasing trade relationships, offering economic packages, and by making ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Nations) States a free-trade zone. India has a definite edge over China to win over its neighbours, which are also tolerant of other religious groups. The Government of India would do well to frame appropriate strategies to strengthen the country’s position in regions where much needs to be done for the sake of mutual interests. India has already experienced difficult times in the Northeast from a whole lot of insurgent groups, which have been receiving arms supplies from China — a country that has also indoctrinated and trained some of them in guerrilla warfare to take up arms against India. Our policy towards China must, therefore, be very pragmatic.

JP Rajkhowa
(The writer, a former Assam Chief Secretary, is currently on a trip to the US) THE SENTINEL

Greed versus Heritage

In an exceptionally courageous move, the Lucknow bench of the Allahabad High Court issued notice on Friday to Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Mayawati and her cabinet colleague Naseemuddin Siddiqui giving them three weeks’ time to file a counter-affidavit and two weeks subsequently to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) to file a rejoinder in the Taj Corridor case. This is a clear indication that the Allahabad High Court has decided to reopen the controversial case initiated many years ago (during Mayawati’s earlier avatar as Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh) relating to a proposal to build a corridor alongside the Taj Mahal of Agra. Going by the standard Indian practices in such matters, law courts in India generally prefer not to admit cases against dignitaries like the Chief Minister of the State or a Union minister. But the Allahabad High Court has been an exception even in the past. One recalls how an adverse Allahabad High Court verdict impelled then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi to promulgate internal emergency in the country in 1975 and to put most Opposition leaders as well as dissenters behind bars without rhyme or reason. The nation punished her at the general elections immediately after emergency was withdrawn by defeating her and the Congress party in a decisive manner. Therefore, the Allahabad High Court is not to be equated with all other high courts in the country in the matter of standing up to the high and the mighty.

The Taj Corridor case involving Mayawati and Siddique and a swindle of Rs 175 crore is old enough for the details to be blurred and for people to have forgotten the less important details. However, the fact remains that Mayawati and Siddiqui conjured up this wonderful plan of building a corridor on the river front leading up to the Taj Mahal. The Rs 175-crore plan was pushed through with unholy haste and some of the work had begun when someone undertook public interest litigation to prevent such sacrilege to a heritage monument. Through the centuries that this remarkable monument has stood on the banks of the Yamuna and drawn millions of tourists to it from all over the world, no one ever dared to suggest changes even to the outlying structure of the Taj Mahal that would have offended the sentiments of the great architects and builders who had created the marvel and even the sentiments of the residents of Agra who want no changes to the structure motivated by greed and little else. If anything, there has been a great deal of concern about the white marble of the Taj being blackened by the smoke from the Mathura refinery.

Given the general concern about the preservation of our archaeological wealth and our heritage (real concern for all this is regrettably rather recent compared to what one sees in other civilized countries), it is time chief ministers and their cabinet colleagues learnt that our heritage ought to rate far greater priority than the cupidity of people who arrive on the scene with the transient power of a few years. People like Mayawati can get hundreds of statues of Ambedkar built at several times the fair cost. But even if they had several stints of power they are unlikely to be able to get anything like the Taj Mahal ever built again. That is precisely why people like Mayawati need to develop a bit of humility over what they can do and what they cannot. And it is for this reason the CBI must consider its duty to India and the Indian ethos as being far more vital than its duty to shield transient chief ministers like Mayawati and ministers like Siddiqui who have no respect for our heritage. THE SENTINEL

AASU gheraoes B’putra Board office in Majuli

MAJULI, Sept 18: The All Assam Students’ Union (AASU), Majuli subdivision unit, today gheraoed the Majuli office of the Brahmaputra Board demanding immediate erosion-control measures to protect the river island. The students’ body has demanded a written assurance from the Board to protect the island. However, following a written assurance from the Board authorities, the students’ body temporarily called off its agitation.

The students’ body also sent a memorandum to the Chairman of the Board mentioning the causes of the failure of the Board in Majuli. “The Board has failed on all fronts in the river island due to irregularities and slow progress of works,” the memorandum said. It further said the Board had taken up its mega projects in 2004, but even then Majuli has lost most of its land only due to the lack of effective and scientific methods to tackle the Brahmaputra floods. “We feel the Board cannot protect the island from erosion. It has already spent over Rs 46 crore in the river island without any result,” AASU leaders said.

The memorandum also included immediate measures to protect the historic Bengenaati area, construction of stone spur by October this year, completion of RCC porcupine structures by 2010, proper execution of embankment strengthening works, erosion-control measures in the Ahotguri Mouza and Namoni Majuli area and repair of breached stretches of the Halodibari-Jengraimukh PWD Road.

Talking to The Sentinel, AASU’s Jorhat district president Biren Saikia said: “The people of Majuli are helpless now. Rs 46 crore of the Rs 86-crore Majuli protection project has been spent in the name of temporary steps.” THE SENTINEL

Five new NITs coming up in North-eastern States

IMPHAL, Sept 18: Five new National Institutes of Technology (NITs) would be set up in the Northeastern States of Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Sikkim. Manipur Information Centre officials here today said the Union Cabinet yesterday approved setting up of new NITs in nine States, including five in NE States.

The process for setting up of these new NITs will start in 2009-10 with formation of their respective societies, constitution of their Board of Governors, appointment of Directors and other formalities.

The admissions in these new NITs will be made from the academic session 2010-11 and classes will start either in campuses taken on lease or temporarily in mentor NITs. Work for construction of campuses for these new NITs would also be initiated subject to the land being provided free of cost by the States/UTs concerned. The process of setting up the institutions will be completed over a period of five years.

The new NITs are being set up to cater to the needs of States/UTs, which do not have these premier institues as of now.

This will meet a long standing demand of these States/UTs. These Institutes will be covered under the National Institutes of Technology Act, 2007, making them institutions of national importance, which will ultimately help in addressing the aspirations of people, especially from the Northeast region.

The new NITs will be able to provide high quality education to many of the bright students from these States/UTs, as 50 per cent of the seats are to be filled from the eligible students from these States/UTs. Many of the States/UTs where these new NITs are being opened, especially those in Northeast, are lacking in national- level technical institutions.

The new NITs will increase in output of high quality by producing engineering and science graduates in the short run and postgraduates and PhDs in the long run; providing teachers for Engineering and Science subjects at College/University level; and developing Research and Development and Intellectual Property generation in Engineering and Science in the long run.
Each of the NIT in the five NE States will be established at a cost of Rs 250 crore. Presently, there are 20 NITs located at Agartala, Allahabad, Bhopal, Calicut, Durgapur, Hamirpur, Jaipur, Jalandhar, Jamshedpur, Kurukshetra, Nagpur, Patna, Raipur, Rourkela, Silchar, Srinagar, Surat, Surathkal, Tiruchirapalli and Warangal. (UNI)

Durga Puja committee’s plea to NGOs

SHILLONG, Sept 18: The Central Puja Committee (CPC) has appealed to all NGOs of the State not to call any agitation before and after major pujas or festivals of Hindus as incorporated in the CPC’s festival calendar.

Speaking to newsmen at Shillong Press Club, CPC general secretary JL Das said, “The CPC has made a fervent appeal to all prominent NGOs of the State not to call any agitation during festivals.” He also appealed to them not to do the same in case of other religious faith too.

Das said a meeting was held on September 17 among the senior CPC officials and high-level State Government officials, including deputy commissioners and superintendents of police of different districts. The meeting was convened by the State Chief Secretary. The meeting decided that all possible steps would be taken by State Government, district civil and police administration, CPC and puja committees to ensure a peaceful Durga Puja in the State.

The CPC’s various programmes for this puja festival include a get-together of harmony on September 23 at Rilbong Durga Puja pandal, a puja visit by physically challenged children on September 25, an annual harmony puja visit by social leaders on September 26, SK Das Memorial drum beat competition on September 27 and Dussera (Ravana Badh) celebration on September 28.

The CPC will also conduct an environment-friendly measure where they will conduct a cleaning drive at Wah Umkhrah where immersion is held. This will be held both before and after immersion. THE SENTINEL

Maoist Eye on North East

In a clear admission of the government’s failure to stymie the growth of Maoist terror in the country, Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh said on Tuesday that ‘‘we have not achieved as much success as we would have liked in containing it’’. He was addressing the State police chiefs on the second day of their three-day conclave in New Delhi. ‘‘As I have stated before, dealing with Left-wing extremism requires a nuanced strategy — it cannot be treated simply as a law-and-order problem. Despite its sanguinary nature, the movement manages to retain the support of the tribals and the poorest of the poor in many areas. It has influence among sizeable sections of civil society, the intelligentsia and the youth,’’ Dr Singh said. He added that Maoism ‘‘still retains a certain elan’’ and ‘‘all this adds to the complexity of the problem’’ — which he would expect the police chiefs ‘‘to keep in mind’’ as they ‘‘devise newer and better strategies to deal with the problem’’. However, what is indeed worrying is what Union Home Minister P Chidambaram said a day earlier: that the CPI-Maoist ‘‘has been keenly seeking ideological resonance and tactical understanding with Northeast insurgents and has begun to lend support to their secessionist ideology and demands’’. In fact the Manipur-based Revolutionary People’s Front (RPF), the political wing of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) that happens to be the most influential militant group in Manipur, already has an agreement of mutual understanding, signed in October last year, with the CPI-Maoist.

There is no gainsaying that the Maoists are trying to ramify to the Northeast by forging strategic ties with the militant groups of the region due primarily to the government’s inability to counter and defeat them as also its hackneyed approach towards eliminating the source of Maoist rebellion and sustenance. As the Prime Minister has rightly pointed out, the problem of Maoism requires a ‘‘nuanced strategy’’ — that is, a strategy that entails not only the use of force to decimate the rebels but also a tangible programme to bail out a section of the tribals and the poorest of the poor, who form the Maoist support base, from the debilitating grip of poverty and backwardness. Given the reality, it is only too easy for the CPI-Maoist to strike deals with Northeast-based militant groups for a synergized and more combative operation against the country. After all, the militant groups of the Northeast, aware as they are of their rapidly eroding support base and because of sustained counter-militancy operations, would welcome any outside non-state force for a new gory innings so as to prove their presence and durability despite setbacks. Naturally, in this joint scheme, there cannot be room for any ideology; the only ‘ideology’ being the task of terrorizing the very people for whom the rebellion has been ostensibly staged. The State governments of the Northeast must, therefore, moot new ideas to succeed in their fight against the evil in the making while focusing on intelligence coordination and smarter ways of garnering actionable intelligence. THE SENTINEL

A Matter of Attitude

Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh has called for a ‘‘new-age’’ policeman who is better trained, more professional and suitably empowered to tackle the modern range of crimes. Addressing the conference of DGPs and IGPs in New Delhi on Tuesday, he said that ‘‘the police station has to be the fulcrum around which this (modernization) needs to take place’’ and ‘‘a large increase in the number of police stations along with raising the strength of police stations has to be undertaken’’. Arguing that capacity building for the ‘‘new-age’’ policeman ‘‘who places greater emphasis on technology for investigation and other tasks’’ should be the focus from the police station level itself, Dr Singh said that ‘‘each police station should aim at being self-sufficient and needs to be given the required resources in terms of anti-riot gear, better weapons, the nucleus of a mobile forensic unit and be connected to a networked criminal data base management system’’. So far so good. But what about the colonial mindset of the policeman, his disinclination to be friendly with the people, his bullying tactics against the hoi polloi, his reluctance to effect a change in his anti-people attitude? What about his attitude when it comes to dealing with criminals with political connections? What about his lack of integrity and courage when it comes to resisting political influences and interference? What about the architecture of corruption he is so essentially a part of? This is not to say there are no exceptions. There are — policemen of high values for whom the khaki means a very special and dedicated way of serving the people and protecting them from criminal elements. However, a vast majority of policemen have a mindset that makes them a very hostile entity and candidates fit only for VIP security cover. Will — or can — the ‘‘new-age’’ policeman ever be a different species in this sense too? THE SENTINEL

Poachers trying to poison rhinos in KNP

KAZIRANGA, Sept 18: Forest authorities in Asom have intensified patrol at Kaziranga National Park as there are fears that poacher gangs might try and kill animals by poisoning the grass instead of gunning them down.

A Forest Department spokesperson said an alert was sounded at the Kaziranga National Park after they found at least half-a-dozen cattle dead reportedly after grazing on poisoned grass in the fringes of the sanctuary.

“Although forensic test reports were yet to come, we suspect the cattle died after grazing on poisoned grass — some toxic chemicals laced with salt might have been sprinkled on a patch of grassland,” Kaziranga park director SN Buragohain told IANS.

Park wardens and rangers said poacher gangs were probably changing their tactics of killing rhinos and other animals using the conventional method of gunning down the wildlife or by digging pits to trap them.

“We have already sent a senior official to the park to investigate the matter. Patrols have been stepped up and efforts are on to fence certain stretches in the fringe areas as well to avoid any kind of threat,” Asom Forest Minister Rockybul Hussain told IANS. “We are taking the reports very seriously, although we would be sure only when we get the forensic report,” he said.

The risk is manifold — tigers could prey on the dead cattle and then themselves become a victim, while rhinos and deer could also stray out of the park to the fringe areas to graze on the poisoned grass.

“Preliminary reports indicate that the poison was laced with salt and then sprinkled on the grassland. And some of the animals have a great penchant for salt and this could be a new modus operandi of poachers to target rhinos,” a forest guard said.

As per the latest rhino census figures of April 2009, some 2,048 of the world’s estimated 3,000 one-horned rhinos lumber around the wilds of the 430 sq km Kaziranga — their numbers ironically making the giant mammals a favourite target for poaching.

Last year, 18 rhinos were killed by poachers, the first time in a decade that the number of rhinos killed in a year has touched a double digit figure in the park. Poacher gangs kill rhinos for their horns, which many believe contain aphrodisiac qualities, besides being used as medicines for curing fever, stomach ailments and other diseases in parts of Asia.

Rhino horn is also fancied by buyers from the Middle East who turn them into handles of ornamental daggers, while elephant ivory tusks are primarily used for making ornaments and decorative items. Profits in the illegal rhino horn trade are staggering — rhino horn sells for up to Rs 1.5 million per kilogram in the international market after they are smuggled to China or sold in other clandestine Asian markets. Once extracted, the rhino horn is routed to smugglers in places like Dimapur in Nagaland, Imphal in Manipur and Siliguri in West Bengal. (IANS)

Mahalaya observed

JORHAT, Sept 18: The crowd was sparse as few people ventured out to join the Mahalaya festivities due to rainfall here this morning. There was Bhagwat Path and singing of Bhajan at the Marwari Thakurbari.

Mahalaya symbolizes the beginning of the Durga Puja festivities as officially the Devi Pakhya begins in the Hindu almanac. From today artisans put the finishing touches to idols and decorations of the pandals begin in right earnest. Tradition has it that the spirits of the dead visit earth on this day and a shraddha benefits all the spirits together. THE SENTINEL

Parijat Academy

GUWAHATI, Sept 18 – Parijat Academy, the school that has brought noticeable changes in a tribal society that was struggling to cope with the burden of its economic backwardness, will have a guest house and a boy’s hostel with friends from overseas coming forward to help the school cross further milestones. Since it was established, this school located at Pamohi on the outskirts of the city has taken up different activities to bring change in the attitude of the tribal people most of whom work at various odd jobs to make a living.

The founder of Parijat Academy Uttam Teron informed that the guest house and the boy’s hostel will be completed under the aegis of Friends of Assam and Seven Sisters (FASS).

“Many volunteers from across the country and outside come to our school. We were in need of a guest house to accommodate the volunteers. We are grateful that FASS has agreed to meet our need,” said Teron.

It needs to be mentioned here that the foundation stone of both the projects was laid by astronaut Mike Fincke when he visited the school recently.

Addressing a gathering of local people and the school children, Mike appreciated Uttam Teron for his dedication to educate the underprivileged children of Pamohi village. Parijat Academy provides free education to the underprivileged children of the area.

Mike also praised Friends of Assam and Seven Sisters (FASS) for supporting the school by proposing to build the boys hostel and the guest house which will fulfill great needs of the school.

The proposed guest house and the boys hostel will be built in the first phase of the overall FASS project ‘upgrading of two underprivileged Schools at Parijat Academy in Pamohi, Guwahati and Prajnalaya in Titabor’. The complete project will be covered with a total budget outlay of about Rs 25 lakh. The fund will be generated through individual public donations as well as from public and private organisations. ASSAM TRIBUNE

Will surrendered Dimasa militants meet the fate of Brus?

SILCHAR, Sept 16: This question has been impinging the minds of insurgency-analysts in the wake of the laying down of arms and ammunition by Dima Halam Daogah (DHD) of Jewel Gorlosa faction and the formal “Farewell to Arms” ceremony on September 24 in presence of the Chief Minister of Asom, Tarun Gogoi, after his return from America. Adhering to the deadline of September 15 set by the Union Home Minister P Chidambaram, according to sources in Haflong, till Monday 360 militants including some top leaders, with arms and ammunition, surrendered before police officials at AP Battalion Headquarters at Sontila in North Cachar Hills.

Among the big guns to opt for surrender are Daniel Dimasa, Maurang and Daku Dimasa. DHD ‘chief’ Jewel Gorlosa and ‘deputy commander-in-chief’ Partha Warisa, arrested in Bangalore on June 3, now in judicial custody, would be present on the surrender ceremony. Outfit’s ‘commander-in-chief’ Niranjan Hojai, believed to be in China, who is reported to have agreed to the peace-process, is likely to be present on the occasion.

David Dimasa, a ‘colonel’ in the outfit and Prakash Dimasa, ‘area commander’, have been on the mission to escort Niranjan Hojai from his exile. After the surrender ceremony, the rebels will be shifted to four possible designated camps at Kapurcherra, Sontila, Dihangi and Haflong.

Significantly, DHD (Dilip Nunisa faction) entered into ceasefire on December 23, 2003, following the surrender of around 800 cadres who are cooped in four designated camps of Harangajao, Dhansiri, Maibong and Dignandu. Relevant to say while DHD (J), also known as Black Widow, has set the prime condition for surrender the renaming of NC Hills as Dima Hasao Raji. Dilip Nunisa, on the other hand, has reiterated the demand for Dima Raji which he said “will be our own home land, Heremba Rajya.”

“Our Dimaraji demand is not a myth but based on historical records and legends”, he stressed and claimed “is supported by the communities, tribals and non-tribals”. The demand for ‘exclusive homeland’, according to analysts, is likely to queer the pitch for negotiation and amicable settlement, though Nunisa clarified “Dimaraji will be within the ambit of the Indian Constitution”. In order to ensure that the cadres do not indulge in any misadventure, all the eight designated camps of both the factions of DHD will be under the watch of security forces.

Besides, questions are being raised ––will the Government of Asom implement the accord to be signed in letter and spirit? This brings into focus the fate of Bru National Liberation Front (BNLF) and Bru Liberation Front of Mizoram (BLFM) which surrendered on April 26, 2005 and December 12, 2006. It was followed by Peace Accord between the two factions and the Government of Mizoram. The Accord envisaged repatriation of 35,000 Bru or Reang refugees housed in six camps of Kanchanpur in Tripura who fled their native State of Mizoram during the ethnic violence of 1997. Three-year term Special Development Project for which the Centre earmarked Rs 39 crore for the socioeconomic amelioration of Brus, the accommodation of the refugees in 22 centres spread across the districts of Aizawl, Mamit and Lunglei and thereafter shifting them to their respective native villages as well as absorption of the surrendered militants in security forces have remained on paper only. The Rs 28 lakh package by the Centre for BNLF cadres too is in red-tapism. Not even a single clause of the Accord has been implemented. Like the refugees, more than 400 cadres of BNLF and BLFM continue to languish in Mamit camps.

Will the Dimasa militants be kept confined in their designated camps like the Brus? This might again create a volatile situation in the Hills district. It should not be missed that behind this peace-process lies the yearning of people for peace. Most important, the Centre should reach an agreement with NSCN (IM) and NSCN (K) in order to bring down the curtain on insurgency in the Northeast. The Union Home Ministry must take up the Bru issue with the Mizoram Government for Accord implementation to send the signal that it is serious about peace in Northeast as a whole. THE SENTINEL

180 more DHD-J cadres surrender

SILCHAR, Sept 14: One hundred and eighty more cadres of the Black Widow deposited their arms and surrendered before district NC Hills district administration today. Since Sunday, altogether 373 cadres of the Dimasa outfit surrendered before the authorities amid tight security. The 180-cadre batch, led by Mawrong Dimasa, Prakash Dimasa and Mimdao Dimasa, laid down their arms before the district administration.

Sources said the militants today deposited 75 firearms, though the brands of the arms were not officially disclosed. All the 180 militants were brought to Red Cross Hospital at Jatinga in the afternoon by seven CRPF buses from the Thanalambra area under Dihangi police station. They were supposed to be housed at a makeshift designated camp at Kapucherra near Harangajao, but till the filing of this report, they were kept in the Red Cross Hospital in Jatinga where 193 militants, who surrendered on Sunday, have been staying.

Meanwhile, David Dimasa, ‘deputy c-in-c’ of the outfit, reportedly said they want peace to prevail in the hills. He has, however, maintained that their fight for Dimaraji will continue, but through nonviolence now. THE SENTINEL

‘New Horizons in Surgery’ at 5 Air Force Hospital

JORHAT, Sept 14: The 5 Air Force Hospital has been celebrating its golden jubilee this year. As a part of the year-long golden jubilee celebration programme and the current pace of advancements in the medical field, the hospital has been conducting Continuing Medical Education (CME) programmes in various specialities at frequent intervals so that their patients have the benefits of critically evaluated and discussed modern knowledge. It is in this context that the CME on ‘New Horizons in Surgery’ is conducted at 5 AFH, AF on September 11 and 12. A total of 100 delegates attended the conference which is inclusive of service as well as civilian delegates. This CME also provided an opportunity to bring together some of the best minds of the country under the same roof to enable the surgeons to update their knowledge of recent developments in the various surgical sciences. The ensuing discussions are sure to stimulate and inspire the young doctors to know and practice the ‘state of the art’ procedures in various surgical fields.

Noteworthy that, 5 Air Force Hospital was raised as a 25 bedded surgical unit on January 1, 1959, following an air crash which brought the attention of the then Defence Minister, the lack of medical facilities in the region. The hospital had the proud privilege of treating the then Prime Minister Morarji Desai when his aircraft met with an accident in 1977. During Chinese aggression, 5 AFH was the only service hospital in the Eastern Region, South of Brahmaputra with the exception of MH Dinjan. However, Jorhat being the main transport base, the casualties were transported by Dakotas returning after their supply dropping sorties. The hospital earned kudos for managing battle casualties round the clock.

5 AFH, presently commanded by Air Commodore MS Bedi, is the second largest hospital of the Indian Air Force and the Easternmost Zonal Hospital of the Armed Forces. It has now evolved into a multi-speciality, multi-dimensional, 410 bedded centre with a well equipped Intensive Care Unit, Coronary Care Unit, Trauma Centre, Reconstructing & Burn Care, Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Centre, Psychiatry and Dermatology Centre. A state of the art, Pathology Department and a licensed Blood Bank back these services. A Rapid Action Medical Team (RAMT) based at 5 AFH has the equipment and expertise to manage mass casualties ‘at site’ in the event of man-made or natural disaster. The Critical Care Patient Transport Unit of 5 AFH, the first of its kind in the IAF, with its indigenously designed Life Support Trauma and Transfer Trolley (LSTTT) has the ability to carry out long distance aero-medical evacuations of dangerously ill patients while rendering critical care and life support during flight.

AVM BK Rao, AVSM, PMO, HQ (EAC) participated as the chief guest on this momentous occasion along with Brig Tapan Sinha, SM, DDMS, 33 Corps, Air Cmde GS Nanda, DPMO (EAC) and Air Cmde S Murali Mohan, Air Force Dental Advisor are the other dignitaries who attended the conference.

On this occasion, Continuing Medical Education (CME) Brochure and a conference CD was also released. The chief guest inaugurated the Scientific Exhibition, which was followed by the CME programme. THE SENTINEL

Prasanta Bora takes over as Chairman of JMB

JORHAT, Sept 14: Prasanta Bora, took oath of office as Chairman of Jorhat Municipality Board (JMB) for the second term here, today. He the Commissioner of ward no. 13. Abul Hussain of ward no. 5, comprising Daccaipatty, took over as Vice-Chairman.
The Chairman, Vice-Chairman and other Ward Commissioners have appealed for the people’s co-operation in conducting various developmental works. THE SENTINEL

Chandrakanta Barua elected Chairman of Dibrugarh Municipal Board (DMB)

DIBRUGARH, Sept 14: Chandrakanta Barua has been chosen as the Chairman of Dibrugarh Municipal Board (DMB) for a period of two-and-a half years. Nityananda Phukon will occupy the chair for the remaining period of the five-year term after him.

Barua is the Commissioner of ward no. 6 of Dibrugarh municipal area, while Phukon is the Commissioner of ward no. 5.

Meanwhile, Rampatlal Verma has been elected as the Vice-Chairman.
The decisions were made during a closed-door meeting held at the Circuit House here today. The Water Resources Minister, Prithibi Majhi, secretary of Asom Pradesh Congress Committee, Ankur Dutta, president of Dibrugarh District Congress Committee, Dr Jayanta Kumar Gogoi, and former Dibrugarh MLA Dr Kalyan Kumar Gogoi were present on the occasion.

There are twenty-two wards in Dibrugarh municipality. In the elections held on July 31, Congress emerged winner in sixteen wards while BJP and AGP captured four and one seat respectively. An independent candidate was the winner in the remaining single seat. As per a district administration notification, the new body along with the Chairman should take office by September 15.

While speaking to The Sentinel, Chandrakanta Barua said that, his effort would be put into place a clean and corruption free municipal administrative system. He further stated that, his other priorities would be to bring in funds for the improvement of the streets and drains besides providing street lights. Barua said that, he would keep people’s interests above all.
The new body will take the oath of office tomorrow. THE SENTINEL

Eri silk cluster inaugurated

SHILLONG, Sept 12: Chief Minister DD Lapang formally inaugurated the Umden Eri Silk Cluster at Duya Auditorium, Umden in Ri-Bhoi District on Friday. The Umden Eri Silk Cluster is one of the 24 clusters under the Regional Resources Centre on Cluster Development, India Institute of Entrepreneurship (IIE). The unique characteristics of this cluster are the availability of skilled artisan and age-old traditional methods of weaving and natural dyeing.

It is a hilly area with moderate climate which is suitable for rearing of silk worms. Almost every household in this areas practises cocoon cultivation, rearing, spinning, dyeing and weaving. In addition to these, as the use of natural dyeing of yarn is one of the prime specialities of the cluster, intervention framework has been designed for development of this cluster as a natural dyeing hub with a natural dyeing technology.

In this cluster development programme, various interventions in the form of providing support to indigenous artisans, setting up of common facility centre, work shed, financial linkage, product diversification through designers’ intervention, market linkages, skill upgradation and training programmes for the eri cultivators will be made.

IIE through its Regional Resource Centre on Cluster Development has plunged into cluster development in a big way since last two years. The institute has 24 clusters throughout the eight States of the Northeast. In Meghalaya, the institute identified an eri silk cluster in Umden which has great potential to be converted into an eri hub of Meghalaya. So far, it has formed 25 self help groups and has been successful in providing financial linkages to them.

It has also formed a Cluster Development Coordination Group (CDCG) under the chairmanship of the Ri-Bhoi Deputy Commissioner who will closely monitor the cluster activities and also act as an adviser to the cluster. THE SENTINEL

About Assam

Assam is a land of myths and mystery. "The land of red rivers and blue hills," as it is described, has a unique landscape with sprawling tea gardens and unending stretches of paddy fields interspersed with groves of coconut, areca nuts, and banana trees. Its population is a confluence of streams of different races and tribes like the Austrics, the Aryans, Negroids, Indo-Burmese, Indo-Tibetans, and Mongoloid. They have enriched each other and have evolved to give a distinctive identity to the Assamese people.

GUWAHATI

Situated on the bank of the mighty river Brahmaputra, Guwahati - said to be the legendary Pragjyotishpur or City of Eastern Light - is the gateway to north eastern India. The name is a combination of two words: Guwa meaning areca nut and Hat meaning market. Guwahati is the commercial nerve centre of the North-East. The places to shop for handicrafts and handloom items include the State Government's department

store, Pragjyotika at Ambari as well as several private shops in Pan Bazar and Fancy Bazar, two of the main commercial markets.

KAZIRANGA

Kaziranga is a national park in the Golaghat and Nagaon districts of Assam, India. It is a World Heritage Site, and two-thirds of the world’s Great One-horned Rhinoceroses live in the park.Kaziranga has the highest density of tigers among protected areas in the world and was declared a Tiger Reserve in 2006. The park has large breeding populations of elephants, water buffalo and swamp deer. Kaziranga is recognised as an Important Bird Area by Birdlife International for conservation of avifaunal species. The park has achieved notable success in wildlife conservation compared to other protected areas in India. Located on the edge of the Eastern Himalaya biodiversity hotspot, the park combines high-species diversity and visibility.

Kaziranga is a vast expanse of tall elephant grass, marshland and dense tropical moist broadleaf forests crisscrossed by four major rivers, including the Brahmaputra, and has numerous small bodies of water. Kaziranga has been the theme of several books, documentaries and songs. The park celebrated its
centenary in 2005 after its establishment in 1905 as a reserve forest.

ETYMOLOGY

Though the etymology of the name Kaziranga is not certain, there exist a number of possible explanations. According to one legend, a girl named Ranga, from a nearby village, and a youth named Kazi, from Karbi Anglong, fell in love. This match was not acceptable to their families, and the couple disappeared into the forest, never to be seen again. The forest was then named after them.
According to another legend, Srimanta Sankardeva, the 16th century Vaisnava saint-scholar, once blessed a childless couple, Kazi and Rangai, and asked them to dig a big pond in the region so that their name would live on. Testimony to the history of the name can be found in some records, which state that once, while the Ahom king Pratap Singha (17th century) was passing by the region, he was particularly impressed by the taste of fish and on inquiry, he was told it came from Kaziranga.

HISTORY BEHIND IT

The history of Kaziranga as a protected area can be traced back to 1904, when Mary Victoria Leiter, the wife of the Viceroy of India, Lord Curzon, visited the area.After failing to spot a rhinoceros, for which the area was renowned, she persuaded her husband to take urgent measures to protect the dwindling species.On June 1, 1905, the Kaziranga Proposed Reserve Forest was created with an area of 232 km² (90 sq mi).Over the next three years, the park area was extended by 152 km² (59 sq mi), to the banks of the Brahmaputra River.In 1908, Kaziranga was designated a Reserve forest. In 1916, it was converted to a game sanctuary—The Kaziranga Game Sanctuary—and remained so till 1938, when hunting was prohibited and visitors were permitted to enter the park.The Kaziranga Game Sanctuary was renamed the Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary in 1950 by P.D. Stracey, the forest conservationist, in order to rid the name of hunting connotations.


In 1954, the government of Assam passed the Assam (Rhinoceros) Bill, which imposed heavy penalties for rhinoceros poaching. 14 years later, in 1968, the state government passed ‘The Assam National Park Act of 1968′, declaring Kaziranga a designated national park.The 430 km² (166 mi²) park was given official status by the central government on February 11, 1974. In 1985, Kaziranga was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO for its unique natural environment

CLIMATE

The park experiences three seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter. The winter season, between November and February, is mild and dry, with a mean high of 25 °C (77 °F) and low of 5 °C (41 °F).During this season, beels and nallahs (water channels) dry up.The summer season between March and May is hot, with temperatures reaching a high of 37 °C (99 °F).The rainy monsoon season lasts from June to September, and is responsible for most of Kaziranga’s annual rainfall of 2,220 mm (87 in).During the peak months of July and August, three-fourths of the western region of the park is submerged due to the rising water level of the Brahmaputra. The flooding causes most animals to migrate to elevated and forested regions outside the southern border of the park, such as the Mikir hills.However, occasional dry spells create problems as well, such as food shortages for the wildlife in the park.

OTHER ATTRACTIONS IN KAZIRANGA

Elephant Safari : The vast open country makes Kaziranga National Park very accessible and wildlife viewing fairly pleasurable. Here one can leave in the early hours of the dawn for an elephant-back-ride. Authorized and trained Mahouts who guide visitors through the park train the Elephants. One could see wild Elephant herds roaming around or Indian Rhinos browse past visitors unconcernedly. Since Kaziranga wildlife Sanctuary is easily accessible, its provides a chance to see animals in the wild at such close quarters, thus making a trip to this National Park a very rewarding experience.

Sightseeing in Kaziranga : Tourists can stroll through the lush coffee and rubber plantations of the nearby Karbi Anglong. Or visit the Karbi villages, meet the Karbi people and observe their way of living. Yiu can also venture through the tea gardens that Assam is so famous for and watch how one gets one’s daily cup of tea. Film shows on wildlife can be arranged at the various tourist lodges in Kaziranga, on request.

Kaziranga Wildlife Sanctuary:

The Kaziranga National Park remains open from 1st November - 30th April every year.

Best Time to Visit Kaziranga National Park:

Kaziranga’s visiting season is from mid-November to early April months. During the monsoons, the Brahmaputra River bursts its banks, flooding the low-lying grasslands and causing animals to migrate from one area to another within the Kaziranga National Park.

SIBASAGAR

Sibsagar was the capital of the mighty Ahoms, who ruled Assam for more than six hundred years, before the advent of the British. The town, which literally means 'the ocean of Lord Shiva', is strewn with the tell-tale ruins of a powerful empire. The most remarkable landmark of the town is the 200 year old Sibsagar tank. On its banks are three significant temples - Shivadol, Vishnudol and Devidol. Modern Sibsagar is a fast developing urban settlement. It is the headquarters of the district Sibsagar, a leading tea and oil producing centre.

TEZPUR

Situated on the banks of river Brahmaputra, this town replete with a raw natural beauty and fascinating archaeological ruins, is the headquarters of district Sonitpur. Undulating green valleys surrounded by the lofty hills and snow-capped peaks of the Himalayas, and lush tea gardens render Tezpur a tourist's delight.

MANAS

Manas is situated in Kamrup-Golapara district, on the foothills of the Himalayas south east of river Manas along the Assam- Bhutan border. The beautiful park earlier known as North Kamrup is spread over an area of 391 sq km and was declared a sanctuary on December 01, 1928. It was established as the core of the Manas Tiger Reserve from April 1973 and elevated to the position of a National Park status on September 7, 1990. It was accorded the status of World Heritage Site in 1985 for its rare wealth of endangered species. The park extends over the national boundary to Bhutan where it is known as the Royal Manas Park.

Manas is home to 20 of the most endangered species of animals which include the rare golden langur, hispid hare, pygmy hog, red pandas etc. The main highlight of the park is the Giant hornbill, two subspecies of which, the pied and grey varieties are found here.


The park is rich in mammals and birds, which includes elephants, tiger, panther, leopard, clouded leopard, gaur, wild-buffalo, great one horned rhinoceros, rare golden langur, capped-langur, civet cat, squirrel, sloth beat, sambar, swamp deer, hog deer, otter, monitor lizard, gharial, python, great hornbill, florican cormorants, ergets and many other species of migratory and predatory birds. The major problem in the park is rhino poaching.

The forests here are tropical moist deciduous type. They are interspersed with swamps. The wetlands are essential for the survival of the fast disappearing hispid hare. The Vegetation ranges from Khairsissoo-bhabhar grass community to semi evergreens. There are intermediate stages of succession-deciduous forests, swampy reed lands and Sal forests. The simul, khoir, udal, sida, bohera and kanchan are the common trees in and around the park.

There are rides on boats, jeeps and elephants available. Elephant ride is the best to see the animals from close range rather than the boat rides. The 3 hour elephant ride starts from Mothanguri. Along the Manas river one can spot many water birds like mergansers, brahminy ducks, a range of egrets etc and otters can be commonly seen in the river.

MAJULI
Majuli is the largest fresh Water mid-river deltaic island in the world. It is situated in the upper reaches of the river Brahmaputra in Assam within the latitude of 26045’ N – 27012’ N & longitude of 93039’ E – 94035’ E with mean height of 84.5 Mt. above MSL. This landmass, with a population of 1.6 Lakhs, majority being tribals, has a very rich heritage and has been the abode of Assamese Vashnavite culture with tremendous option for spiritual and Eco-tourism. The island is a bio-diversity hotspot and has rich ecology with rare breeds of flora and fauna.

Majuli Island Protection and Development Council is a non-government organization promoted by the people of Majuli, who are concerned about the conservation and development of the Island. The primary objective of the organization is to build up mass awareness about the perilous future of this unique Island and its shrinking shoreline due to rapid erosion They are also trying their best to preserve the illustrious authenticity of its cultural and spiritual heritage by various means. The NGO has initiated a concerned

effort involving various national and international agencies including the Government authorities to conserve the unique attributes of this largest fresh water inhabitant island, which is also famous as a rare bio-diversity hotspot.

MIPADC has also been the sole motivator and advocacy role player in preserving and bringing concern for the Island from various quarters as a fit case for UNESCO – World Heritage site due to its uniqueness in cultural and natural heritage.


NAMERI
Situated in the District of Sonitpur, the Nameri is the third National Park of Assam. The Pakhui (Pakke) Sanctuary of Arunachal Pradesh adjoins the Park on its North-Eastern point. The area is criss-crossed by the river Jia- Bhoroli and its tributaries namely the Diji, Dinai, Doigurung, Nameri, Dikorai, Kharietc. A few jheels (during the rainy seasons) also dot the area. The Jia – Bhoroli river and the tributaries display devilish look when the incessant downpour in the upper reaches during the rainy season make it swell. The in-accessibility and continuity with neibouring forest areas has helped the wildlife of Nameri to flourish. There is a good prey –base in the form of –Sambar,Barking deer, Hog Deer, Wild Boar and gauri. About 3000 domestic cattle also form part of this prey base for Tiger and Leopards.

The inaccessibility and continuity with the neibouring forest areas have helped the wildlife of Nameri to flourish. There is a good prey base in the form of Sambar, Barking deer, Hog Deer, Wild Boar and Gaur. About 3000 domestic cattle also form part of this prey base for Tiger and Leopards.


Nameri and the adjoining forest areas, declared reserved for a considerable time, also qualify to be an Elephant Reserve. The Elephant population estimated in 1997 was 225.

Nameri and Sonai-Rupai are only Protected Areas in the North Bank of the Brahmaputra in the Civil District of Sonitpur, Lakhimpur and Dhemaji.
source: http://www.kazirangaelephantfestival.com/aboutassam.html