December 20, 2012 – Page 3

Special Package for Development of Tourism in North East

Mail News Service
New Delhi, Dec 20 : The following special package has been prepared by the Government for development of tourism in North East Region, including Assam:-
Provision of complimentary space to the North Eastern States in India Pavilions set up at major International Travel Fairs and Exhibitions.
Relaxation in Leave Travel Concession (LTC) norms for Central Government employees.
10% of the annual plan allocation of the Ministry of Tourism mandatorily earmarked for releasing Central Financial Assistance (CFA) to the North Eastern States.
100% CFA for organizing fairs & festivals allowed only to the North Eastern States & the State of Jammu & Kashmir.
The following steps have been taken by the Government to promote tourism in the North East Region including Assam:-
Releasing television campaigns on various TV Channels.
A separate section on the North East Region included on the promotional website of the Ministry of Tourism www.incredibleindia.org.
The North East Region has been the theme of the India Pavilion at the South Asian Travel & Tourism Exchange (SATTE) organized annually in New Delhi for the past few years.
Publicity material produced and distributed widely through Indiatourism offices in India and overseas.
This information was given by Union Minister for Tourism K. Chiranjeevi in Rajya Sabha today.

ILP bandh affects life

Mail News Service
Imphal, Dec 20 : The 14-hour Greater Imphal markets bandh imposed by the Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS) protesting against both the state and Central Governments for ignoring the resolution taken by Manipur assembly on the implementation of ILP in the state paralyzed normal life on Thursday.
During the strike, women vendors of greater Imphal staged protest dharnas from 9 am-3 pm at their respective markets demanding introduction of ILP in the state.
The demonstrations were organized at the three Kwairamband Ima Market Sheds, Singjamei bazaar, Pishum bazaar, Kwakeithel bazaar, Konung Mamang bazaar, Khurai bazaar, Lamphel bazaar and Tera bazaar.
The protesters held placards reading “Implement ILP System in Kangleipak” and “No ILP, No Indigenous People.”
Number of inter-district passenger buses was less, markets and shops in the greater Imphal area downed shutters and the roads wore a deserted look due to the strike. Education institutions were closed and the Government establishments were also affected by the bandh which started from 4 am and ended at 6 pm.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/ilp-bandh-affects-life/

Jodha honoured with Sahitya Awards

Manipur Information Centre
New Delhi, December 20: Twelve books of poetry, six short stories, four novels, one each of autobiography and criticism were selected for the Sahitya Akademi awards for the year 2012.
The awards were recommended by distinguished jury of three members in each language and approved by the Executive Council of Sahitya Akademi which made today under the chairmanship of Dr. Viswanath Prasad Tiwari, the Acting President of Sahitya Akademi.
The awards were given to books first published between January 2008 and December 2010. The award carries a cheque of Rupees one lakh, engraved copper plaque and a shawl.
Twelve poets chosen for the prestigious award were Guneswar Musahary (Bodo — Boro Khonthai), Chandrakant Devtale (Hindi — Pathar Fenk Raha Hoon), H S Shivaprakash (Kannada — Mabbina Haage Kabniveyassi), Kashinath Shamba Lolienkar (Konkani — Kavyasutra) , Darsan Buttar (Punjabi — Maha Kambani), Aaidan Singh Bhatti (Rajasthani — Aankh Hinye Ra Hariyal Sapana), Ramji Thakkura (Sanskrit – Laghupadhyaprhbandhatrayi), Krishna Kumar Toor (Urdu — Ghurfa-I-Ghalib), K Sachitandandan (Malayalam – Marannu Vacha Vazhikal), Bal Krishna ‘Bhaura’ (Dogri – Tim-Tim Karde Tare), Makhan Lal Kanwal (Kashmiri – Yath Aangnaz Manz) and Jeet Thayil (English-These Errors are Correct).
Jayant Pawar’s Marathi collection Phoenixchya Rakhetun Uthala Mor, Uday Thulung’s Ekantvas (Nepali), Gourahari Das’s Kanta O’ Anyanya Galpa (Odia), Gangadhar Hansda’s Banchaw Akan Goj Hor (Santali), Late Indra Vaswani’s Miteea Khaan Miteea Taaeen (Sindi) and Peddibhotla Subbaramaiah Peddibhotia’s Subbaramaiah Kathalu Vol 1 (Telugu) were the winners in short story collections.
Jodha C. Sanasam, a doctor by profession from Manipur was selected for his Manipuri novel- Mathou Kanba DNA. Other novelists selected for the award were Assamese writer Chandana Goswami for her novel Patkair Ioare More Desh, Subrata Mukhopadhyaya for his Bengali fiction ‘Birasan’ and D Selvaraj (Tamil — Thol).
In Gujarati, Chandrakant Topiwala’s critical study ‘Gujarati Sakshibhasya’ was selected for the award while in Maithili Shefalika Verma’s autobiography ‘Kist-Kist Jeewan’ won the award.
The awards will be presented on February 18, 2013 in New Delhi during the Festival of Letters organized by the Sahitya Akademi.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/jodha-honoured-with-sahitya-awards/

e-Toilets from Kerala in JK

M. Jacob Abraham, Deputy Director, PIB, Thiruvananthapuram.
Kerala’s own electronic toilets (e-toilets), one of the prominent innovations of the state in public health, hygiene and sanitation sector, would now be seen featured at the scenic an snow covered valleys of Jammu and Kashmir also.
Developed by Eram Scientific Solutions, the Thiruvananthapuram based scientific R&D firm, the e-toilets for Jammu & Kashmir region has been customized as per the region’s own geographical and sub-zero climatic conditions in response to J&Ks tourism departments request for setting up e-Toilets in the State. The e-Toilets would be set up at Affarwat and Gulmarg. Affarwat is one of the world’s highest locations which uses cable car using gondolas at a height of over 4000 ft above sea level and the only one location in the world that takes skiers to a height of 4,390 metres.
In addition to the e-toilets, specifically designed STPs (Sewage Treatment Plants) would also be set up at Dal Lake to address its waste treatment woes. A 2.5 ton container loaded with the e-toilet and STP components would be leaving from Thiruvananthapuram to Jammu and Kashmir. Eram Scientific has designed customized e-toilets which can function in sub-zero temperatures, even at -55o. In order to function at this sort of extreme cold temperatures, military grade equipments have been used in the customized e-toilet model. Eram Scientific has successfully implemented over 400 e-toilets in various parts of the country.
The e-toilets are designed on the lines of the Australian National Public Toilet Map. The user, could view the toilet map via the Internet or the cell phone, select the nearest toilet station, set a parking space, make payment, view the timings and get other details on allied facilities.
The company has entered into an association with the Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore for further research and development of e-toilets.The collaborative work will focus on structural analysis and design verification of these toilets.Need for a Sustainable Intervention in Sanitation sector Urban and Semi Urban areas -These areas face severe problems with respect to standard public toilets, cleanliness and better sanitation amenities in particular. The cities and towns being overpopulated pose severe health hazards arising due to unhygienic conventional sanitation methods being followed in these areas. The introduction of the proposed sanitation system would radically change the plight of the existing toilets and public sanitation system in place.
Social Relevance – Unhygienic sanitation cause infection and related diseases especially in women and children. The level of privacy, dignity and safety for women can be rendered in the best possible manner by installing Electronic Public Toilets in all possible public locations.
Unhygienic Tourist Spots – Tourism is also facing the ill-effects of the deplorable sanitation conditions in the country. Several tourist spots and connecting roads are a pity to the country and are causing discomfort for the tourists. Chances of getting infected with severe communicable diseases in the Indian streets do create doubts for the tourists in choosing it as their destination.
eToilet, India’s First Electronic Public Toilet
Through this unique product, the company has attempted to address the inherent challenges of public sanitation. In a perfect situation, a public toilet should have the capabilities to address waste management, effective water usage and sustainability as core challenges among various other issues. eToilet is positioned as the perfect solution which addresses all these effectively; it is cost effective, appropriate and suitable for the geographic and demographic patterns of any location. It is working on a mission to have all Indian Cities with modern sterilized public sanitation system. To further improve Urban Sanitation Infrastructure, such projects with huge social relevance are inevitable.
The Innovation
The idea was to develop an eco-friendly public sanitation system for the Indian sub-continent based on a novel convergence of electronic, mobile, web and bio technologies, for serving as an affordable, sustainable and effective public toilet service in India. eToilet is positioned as the ultimate solution to ensure public toilets across the country are maintained hygienically, with the minimum of manual intervention, and substantial energy and water savings as well. The e-Toilet works on total auto mode: The insertion of a coin opens the door for the user, switches on the light – thus saving energy – and even directs the user with audio commands. The toilets are programmed to flush 1.5 liters of water if the user takes up to 3 minutes, and 4.5 liters of water if the usage is longer. They can also be programmed to clean the platform after every 5 or 10 persons use the toilet. The e-Toilet is the result of a convergence of electronics, web and mobile technologies, featuring automated door opening, power flushing, automatic closet washing and sterilization, and automatic platform cleaning mechanism, all backed by SMS alerts to inform the control room about the status of water tank and bio gas plant in the event of any errors or failures through which the downtime can be minimized. The solid and liquid wastes are treated scientifically. A bio-membrane reactor is used to treat solid wastes and the water used is purified for reuse. The uniqueness of the solution lies in the built-in electronic innovations that will facilitate self cleaning of the toilets with minimum water usage, and treatment of solid waste and water with an environment friendly sewage treatment solution.
Highlights of the Project
As on date, appropriate and cost effective technology is not used anywhere in India in the sanitation sector – eToilet is a model that is a hybrid one, synergizing technologies in Electronics, Mechanical, Information Technology, etc., for a very cost effective and modular design.
Automatic un-manned toilet (Wet type) is an innovation in India; it is especially important as the unit has the capabilities for self washing and sterilization. Sterilization will be helpful in containing serious communicable diseases.
Use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) for the management of the unit incorporating GPRS facilities.
eToilet also incorporates a unique advertisement revenue model which ensures the unit’s sustainability and adds to its ambience. The ad panels offer manifold revenue opportunities as this is a highly lucrative model especially in metros and several public locations. Also the units have the capability of adopting high-tech advertisement displays such as revolving ads which adds to its aesthetics and sustainability. This sustainability model is highly relevant in a tourist spot, where employment opportunities can be created and extra cleanliness can be ensured, with the income thus generated.
eToilet covers all the three aspects of quality of life, efficiency and environment protection. eToilet is aimed at improving the quality of life of the public; i.e. the wellness of the people by providing clean, hygienic state-of-the-art sanitation facilities which overrides the traditional public toilets. Though the unit is fully automated, it does not create any kind of usage barrier to the normal user. Efficiency is brought into practice through its unique futuristic approach woven with an intention to preserve our precious resources
such as water, electricity and managing waste through effective and efficient sewage treatment techniques. It is also a cost-effective mechanism to ensure proper public sanitation facility in highly populated regions. The average life of a unit is estimated to be around 7-10 years and thus it offers durability. Also the deployment of such units will provide employment opportunities for many. This will help many people to earn their livelihood. Environment is protected through eToilet’s Green technology focus and is all set to emerge with a matchless ‘green model’ through a linkage with Indian Institute of Science. 400+ units of eToilet are installed in various locations of our country. The commercial production of the same started during the first quarter of 2010 to provide world class sanitation facility for tourists. Eram has installed e-toilets in various parts of Kerala and Greater Noida. Another 300 is under implementation and will be operational within next two months. Each system is used by an average of 130 peoples per day. The company has now entered into technology transfer agreement with South Africa and marketing arrangement with Nigeria and Botswana.
High Impact Projects
eToilet is now evolving as a sustainable project for providing clean and hygienic urban infrastructure. Various Government Departments in Kerala have been implementing large scale projects for providing sustainable technology based urban sanitation projects.The Women’s’ Development Corporation of Government of Kerala is setting up over 200 eToilets christened as she-toilet for women.
Public Works Department is setting up Eve’s own eToilet across the stretch of its highways in Kerala.
Kerala Tourism Department plans to set up eToilet network along its premium tourist destinations.
Eram is also setting up Highway amenity centers for tourists in over 30 destinations in Kerala.
Pathanamthitta District in Kerala is India’s first District with a connected eToilet Infrastructure
(CeTI) where the locations of toilets and their operational status can be viewed over a web based map. This is more useful to a tourist who travel with their families. Connected e-Toilets would communicate over a GPRS system and they are accessible over a mobile or internet for locating them. The e-Toilets can provide information about its working status, whether for male or female, whether changing stations for babies are available and other facilities and the distance from the location specified can be provided.
The company has recently won a whopping grant of over $ 4,50,000 from the Bill and Melinda Gates foundation to set up eco friendly and hygienic e-Toilets making public conveniences more accessible to the urban poor. The prototyped e-toilet was developed under Technopreneur promotion programme (Tepp) of Department of Scientific and Industrial Research of Government of India by Technopark, Thiruvananthapuram promoted by Government of Kerala. The innovation got grant in aid from Government of India for the prototype development and after completing the working models, this technology has been transferred to Eram Scientific Solutions for comercialising the technology.
(PIB Features.)

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/e-toilets-from-kerala-in-jk/

Avoid traffic congested roads

Why traffic jam occurs? Does it reflect financial well being of the people living in the state or does it reflect inability of the concerned department to regulate the flow of vehicular traffic. Whatever the case may be traffic jam in Imphal has become a daily routine. There is no way to control traffic jam in Imphal. Roads running through the state capital are too narrow and these roads are not matching with the ever increasing number of vehicles in Manipur. Addition of flyovers will help ease traffic congestion. Since the addition of fly over at Uripok road the vehicular traffic is smooth now. Manipur needs lots of flyovers. More such flyovers need to be constructed at other areas. However fly over is considered as costly construction. If the Government of Manipur cannot construct flyover it must think of diverting the national highways passing through the heart of Imphal city to other areas. Traffic jam at Tiddim road has also become unmanageable. The users of the road understand that crossing Tiddim road at Kwakeithel area has become a nightmare. Similar experience is felt at Singjamei just near the traffic island. The problem at Singjamei area can be solved by increasing the space occupied by the traffic island. The present one standing in the middle of the road is too small. Make it one hundred feet wide traffic island vehicular flow will be smooth. A traffic island having 200 feet diameter also needs to be constructed at the Northern side of Kangla to enable smooth flow of vehicles. These Government offices lying just the near the Kanglapat are responsible for traffic congestion at the National highway near Kanglapat. Either these offices should be shifted to other areas or the vehicles used by the staff of the offices should be parked within the office complex. Entry of vehicles in the offices can be easily regulated by issuing car pass by the authority of the concerned department. Unplanned developmental programmes taken up here and there also contribute to causing traffic menace. The hole just near the Raj Bhavan gate cannot be filled up. Link roads running at the periphery of the city, which can reduce traffic congestion, need to be kept in tip top condition. If that is done vehicles will opt for such road instead of using the crowded area. Our advice to the vehicle owner is, avoid using national highway near Kangla pat on the day one considers is auspicious. Marriage procession and those going for attending social and religious functions will occupy these roads. One can reach the destination of their choice without using the road running near the Kanglapat. Before igniting the engine the driver or the owner should decide the road map leading to the spot of his choice. If that is done one can manage to reach the place of his choice without facing traffic nightmare. One realises traffic menace only after landing in the midst of sea of vehicles. Neither you can return back nor you can move forward. You regret your folly only when you are caught in the middle of menacing, chick by jaw, traffic congestion. Don’t move ignorantly. Be a wise planner. Avoid the road that sees daily occurrence of traffic congestion.

Read more / Original news source: http://manipur-mail.com/avoid-traffic-congested-roads/

IRB personnel selling liquor inside Kangla: Andro MLA Shyamkumar

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IMPHAL, December 20: Taking the opportunity of the Discussion on a matter of Public Interest during the last day of the 3rd session of the 10th Manipur Legislative Assembly, Andro MLA from the Trinamool Congress Th Shyamkumar appealed before the … Continue reading →

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He said IRB personnel are selling foreign liquor inside the sacred Kangla fort and in order to confirm the sale, he had himself bought liquor from inside the Kangla and even took pictures.

He continued that foreign liquor are sold in the canteens of 1st MR, 2nd MR and though the liquors are meant for the security forces, it is being sold to the general public to earn profit.

He continued that it is hard to confirm the whereabouts of the manufacturers of such foreign liquors.

He said this has affected the health of many people of the state and said instead of allowing sale of such foreign liquor it would be better if the local wine distilled at Andro, Sekmai and Phayeng are provided under a licence system and the quality controlled and exported for revenue.

He continued that the claims of the Excise department regarding destroying of sized liquor in the state are all dramas and in fact it is like the department does not exist at all.

Participating in the MLA’s discussion, Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh said he has no idea that foreign liquor is sold inside the Kangla, but since it has been pointed out he will look into the issue and see if the Arts and Culture dept had allowed the sale.

Continuing further, the Chief Minister said that the Manipur Assembly had passed the Total Prohibition Act in 1991, however medicinal use, customary use and by security personnel were exempted from the act.

He said the government had also considered the option of allowing distillation of local wine under a licence system; however the public seem to be against it.

In answer to the MLA’s take on the non-existence of Excise department statement, the CM said the excise department had a revenue turnover of Rs 63025215.

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Dy CM condemns Chandel incident

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IMPHAL, December 20: State Home Minister Gaikhangam while condemning the alleged act of a gun brandishing NSCN (IM) cadre who had assaulted a Manipuri actress on December 18 evening at Chandel, the state Dy Chief Minister Gaikhangam said during the Zero Hour that the government has already dispatch officials of the Assam Rifles and the state police to visit the venue and conduct an investigation.

Speaking during the Zero hour, the Dy CM said the act of the NSCN (IM) activist is a highly condemnable incident.

While lamenting that the government was informed only on the next day, the Dy CM soon added that he has already talked to representatives of the Film Forum Manipur and all found guilty and involved in the incident will be punished according to the law.

The Dy CM also said that even though there is the liberty not to answer to statements brought up during the Zero Hour, he has made the reply as the issue is of public concerned.

Gaikhangam continued that the government will take all the needed actions regarding the killing of a civilian during the intervening night of December 18-19 at the venue of the Orange Festival at Tamenglong.

Taking opportunity of the Zero Hour, MLA Th Shyamkumar appealed before the House for payment of due salaries of the employees of the Engineering depts.

Langthabal MLA K Shyam appealed for payment of ex-gratia and all needed help to the families of the victims of yesterday’s multiple bomb blasts, while MLA L Ibomcha said that cost of the food available at the Manipur Bhawan, New Delhi is unreasonable.

Other members who condemned the CHandel incident include MLA RK Anand, N Biren.

While N Biren called upon the House to condemn the incident, RK Anand said that the NSCN (IM) cadres should be restricted to their designated camps and if in case they want to get out then they should be made to take permissions.

In the meantime, Opposition leader Dr I Ibohalbi was the first to take up the Chandel issue in the House.

He had asked whether the NSCN (IM) which is in peace talks with the Government of India is allowed to do such things. He had further asked the government to make a statement on the issue.

Meanwhile, Kakching MLA Surchandra had also taken up the issue of a missing non local married to a woman from Kakching Lamkhai.

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Opposition leader takes up Shinde remark issue

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IMPHAL, December 20: Quoting a report of the Telegraph daily carried under the headline “Shinde turns down Rio, Ibobi proposals” in its September 10 issue, state Opposition leader and Trinamool Congress MLA Dr I Ibohalbi today said that the use of “Any sensible person” by Union Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde is a direct insult to the image and dignity of the Manipur State Assembly.

Speaking on the last day of the 3rd session of the 10th Manipur Legislative Assembly, the Opposition leader said that the Union Home Minister was speaking in context to the Private Member Resolution passed by the State Assembly during its last session on July 13 regarding the Inner Line Permit and the statement was an indication to the 60 members of the House including the leader of the House Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, Dy CM and the Speaker.

Continuing further he appealed for a point of order from the Speaker on whether the statement of the Union Home Minister was not in contempt of the House and Breach of Privilege and asked if the House has taken any action in this regard.

The Opposition leader further asked if the House has taken any suo moto case and if the Secretary of the House has communicated the issue to the Speaker of the Parliament.

In reply to the Opposition leader’s statement, Speaker Th Lokeshor Singh said neither the members of the House, the Assembly Secretary nor the Priviliege & Ethics Committee has taken up any action on the issue and that he is unable to understand whether the reported speech of the Union Home Minister is a Breach of Privilege or not.

He added that in case the member wanted to file a complaint on the issue, he can do so at which the Opposition leader replied that he will file his complaint in the next session.

Following the opposition leader’s reply, the Speaker adjourned the session of the House sine die.

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Women bodies condemn assault on actress

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IMPHAL, December 20: The assault on popular Manipuri film actress Momoko by an NSCN (IM) cadre at Chandel has been condemned by various women associations with calls for the three sitting women representatives in the State Assembly, namely MLA of Kangpokpi A/C Nemcha Kipgen, MLA of Khangabok A/C O Landhoni Devi and Social Welfare and Corporation Minister AK Mirabai Devi to take action on the issue.

Renowned Manipuri film actress Momoko Khangembam was allegedly molested and beaten up by a man identifying himself as an NSCN (IM) cadre during a music concert held on December 18, 2012 at Chandel High School Ground, organised by the Mahamani Women Society, Chandel.

Speaking at a press meet today at the office of Women Association for Civic Action Kangleipak (WACAK) its president Soubam Ibetombi urged the concerned authorities to grant befitting punishment to the NSCN (IM) cadre Livingstone. “Such an act is a challenge to the women society. The women associations will not remain silent on the issue,” she said.

She further said that the organizers of the concert should take responsibility for the incident and maintained that the government should arrest the accused Livingstone and hand him over to the public. She also condemned the police personnel who remained as mute spectators during the incident.

The said press meet was attended by representatives of WACAK, Poirei Leimarol Meira Paibi Apunba Manipur, Apunba Manipur Kanba Ima Lup, Chingtam United Women Association, Kanglei Ima Lup, Kangleipak Women Welfare Association, Kabui Mothers Association, All Manipur Women Social Reformation Development Samaj, Tami Chingmi Apunba Nupi Lup Manipur, Rongmei Women Organisation (Assam, Manipur, Nagaland), Momnu Irik Khombi Lup, Chanura Lamjinglen Kangleipak, and Kangleichal.

Speaking at the press meet, President of Kabui Mothers Association, Kakomlunglu Kamei said, “Such an act of torturing a girl in full public view cannot be beared by us, the mothers. Men should take women as their own mother or sister and discipline should be maintained.” She further said that the culprit should be given appropriate punishment.

Meanwhile, taking a serious note of the incident, the All India Youth Federation Manipur State Council (AIYF/MSC) has condemned it in its press note, asking for a clarification. Calling for a befitting punishment of the said person behind the incident, it appealed to the government to take appropriate action before intense unwanted incidents come up from the furious public.

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Locals decry bomb blast

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IMPHAL, December 20: A mass sit in protest cum public meeting against the bomb blast at the residence of Laishram Kedha which lead to the death of one mason and leaving two others critically injured was held today in front of the Southern Youth Educational Sporting and Social Development Association organized jointly by four different clubs of the surrounding locality of Kakwa Maibam leikai. A JAC has also been formed in this regard.

Protesters at the sit in held placards claiming, ` firing of gun and bomb blasts in residential areas will not able to bring changes in the society`, `locals of the areas condemn the of killing of M Bira and injuring of L Manja and O Sanayaima`, `Struggle without passion is plant without root`, `why was M Bira killed?`, and `stop hurling of bombs a residential areas immediately.`

Later, locals of the surrounding area of Oinam leikai, Maibam leikai, Naorem leikai and Liwa lambi pukri ahchouba mapal meira paibi and club volunteers after forming the JAC passed resolutions urging the Government to provide one state government job to the family of late Maibam Bira, to provide state financial aid to the victims of the blast yesterday, to find out the culprit at the earliest and punish the culprit after investigation under the procedure of the establishment. The JAC further condemned the incident.

After the meeting, protestors marched toward the State Chief Minister`s official bungalow to submit the memorandum which they had passed as resolutions. The procession was however stopped by a team of police at Yaiskhul area. Later, members of the co-ordination committee were allowed to submit their memorandum to the Deputy Chief Minister who also holds the portfolio of home minister.

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Complaint filed against Principal

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IMPHAL, Dec 20: A written complaint was filed before the Manipur Commission for Protection of Child Rights by Phurailatpam Sharatchandra Sharma of Sega Road Takhellambam Leikai against the Principal of RK Sanatombi Devi Vidyalaya namely H Nobindchand Singh for expelling … Continue reading →

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According to a press release of Human Rights Law Network (Manipur), in his complaint Sharatchandra Sharma had stated that his daughter had been expelled from the school on certain false allegation that his daughter had eloped to a person earlier.

Further the complainant has mentioned that under provisions of Section 16 of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 prohibits expulsion or holding back of a student during elementary education.

The Commission will consider the complaint very soon and appropriate action would be initiated after an enquiry. The present complaint is filed with the active initiative of Human Rights Law Network (Manipur), the release added.

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Speaker rejects Ibohanbi`s Censure motion against Md Abdul Nasir

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IMPHAL, December 20: A Censure Motion against Agriculture Minister Md Abdul Nasir introduced by Opposition leader Dr I Ibohalbi was dropped off by the House today after the Speaker rejected it. Speaking to media persons after the Assembly session today, … Continue reading →

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IMPHAL, December 20: A Censure Motion against Agriculture Minister Md Abdul Nasir introduced by Opposition leader Dr I Ibohalbi was dropped off by the House today after the Speaker rejected it.

Speaking to media persons after the Assembly session today, the Opposition leader said, the motion was submitted on December 19 with a good intention.

He said the actions of Minister of the state who was also the chief guest of the day of the Sangai Festival which is also participated and attended by several persons from the outside was shameful. The incident was also covered by the national media.

Thinking that the outside world will think of the state MLAs and Ministers as a boisterous and unruly lot, he had introduced the motion, the Opposition leader said.

The government must have its reasons for not desiring to place the motion for discussion, but he will seek it out, he continued.

When asked if the Speaker of the House has the authority to reject the motion, Dr I Ibohalbi said that under Rule No 130 of the Assembly, the Speaker has the authority.

He however regretted that the Speaker has rejected the motion which was introduced in the .interest of the House and the public.

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WAD condemns

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IMPHAL, December 20: A press release from the Women Action for Development (WAD), an organization working to address issues of violence and social inequality faced by women has expressed shock and strongly condemned the untoward incident at Chandel District where film actress, Momoko Khangembam was allegedly molested and assaulted in front of a huge crowd by an well-armed person who admitted he was an NSCN (IM) cadre named Livingstone at a musical concert held at Chandel High School Ground. It further said that though several security personnel were present among the crowd at the time of the incident, the inaction shown by the police in stopping the act of harassment and intimidation to the actress and two other artistes is highly disgraceful and outrageous.

WAD further appreciated the statement made in the State Assembly by the Deputy Chief Minister Shri Gaikhangam ordering for the immediate arrest of the culprit and bring justice by delivering the strictest punishment. The press note futher expressed solidarity to the campaign protesting against the barbaric gang-rape of a 23 year old paramedic girl in a moving bus and brutally assaulted in Delhi leading to public and activists storming Parliament proclaiming the nation’s shame. Noting the active involvement and participation of Women MPs and other representatives protesting the recurrence of such heinous crimes in the capital WAD said it expects the same at the State premises and its emulation by the State representatives towards the issue of safety for women and take responsibility on the issues of the steep rising crimes against women and children in the State.

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6th HADO Crafts Bazar-2012

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IMPHAL, December 20: The inaugural function of 6th HADO Crafts Bazar-2012 was held at Yaiskul Athletic ground here today.Speaking at the function, Govindas Konthoujam Minister Commerce and Industries, Government of Manipur said the amount put in by state government in handicrafts is Rs 30 lakhs, adding that efforts will be made towards increasing the amount to Rs 50 lakhs.

“It is unfortunate that a rural haat is being made in the name of an urban haat. The government of India will be pressed to make an urban haat for Imphal West district and a proposal will also be sent to the Government of India to make the haats in the notified area of Bishenpur and Thoubal,” he added.

Saying that there is a plan to construct a Gems and Jewellery park in the state, the Minister said that there are many lapses in the state and considering that it is to be a gateway under the Look East Policy, the Government would address those gaps. Adding that Manipur has 92 National Awardee Artists and craftsmen which is the highest in north east, he said that the efforts are on to increase the amount for State Awardees.

At present 18 artisans of the state is participating Mela at Kolkata and they will be given Rs 5000 each as incentives, he added.

The function was presided over by MLA of Uripok Constituency L Nandakumar Singh and attended by Assistant Director (H) of Marketing and Service Extension Centre O/o the DC Handicraft Govt of India T Rollee Vareishim, Director of Institute of Cooperative Management Kh Somarendro Singh, Deputy Manager of State Bank of India RK Loken Singh, and Functional Manager of Directorate of Commerce and Industries Govt of Manipur as guests of honour.

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Separate accidents claim three lives

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IMPHAL, December 20: Road accidents at separate places have claimed three lives including a government officer on duty. A Section Officer of the PWD on duty was killed in a road accident this morning at around 11:30, after he was … Continue reading →

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IMPHAL, December 20: Road accidents at separate places have claimed three lives including a government officer on duty.

A Section Officer of the PWD on duty was killed in a road accident this morning at around 11:30, after he was hit by a Tata truck while he was conducting a road survey at Bhinpra under Kangpokpi police station.

A mother and her child were also injured during the said accident.

The deceased has been identified as Biakthang, 51, son of Sandam, a resident of New Checkon.

According to police, the cause of the accident could be due to the failure of the truck’s steering.

The dead body was handed over to his family after a post mortem was conducted at RIMS morgue.

Meanwhile, in a hit and run case, a 50-year-old man was hit by a vehicle at North AOC on December 18 at around 7 pm.

According to an eyewitness, the vehicle could be a Mahindra Bolero or a Scorpio jeep and it sped away after hitting the man.

The victim has been identified as MA Nganaomei, 50, a resident of New Tusom village, Ukhrul district.

He succumbed to his injuries last night at Raj Polyclinic, where he was admitted after the accident.

His dead body was handed over to his family members today after a post mortem was conducted at RIMS.

In another accident case, a 60-year-old man who was hit by a Bajaj Pulsar bike bearing registration number MN-0B5-1538 on November 28 at around 11 am at Sabungkhok Maning Leikai under Lamlai police station, died today.

According to a source, he was treated at Shija hospital for a long time after the accident and was discharged home.

But today at around 1:30 pm his health condition deteriorated and he was rushed to JNIMS, but succumbed on the way.

The deceased has been identified as Moirangthem Nimai, 60, son of M Yaima, a resident of Sabungkhok Maning Leikai.

His death body was handed over to his family members after a post mortem was conducted at JNIMS morgue today.

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MPP questions NSCN(IM) peace talk

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IMPHAL, December 20 (Newmai News Network): Manipur People’s Party (MPP ) said it has been observing the development, post the reported “Final Settlement stage” of the talk between the Government of India and NSCN(IM ) to the issues raised by … Continue reading →

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“However, MPP finds it questionable the secretive manner in which the talks have been carrying on. It is a known fact that the core issues raised by the NSCN(IM) involves Manipur.But what is not known is themanner in which the negotiations are taking place; neither the Government of Manipur is privy to it or should the Manipur Government make a clarification?The fact that negotiations have been carried on totally independent and unconnected with the Government of Manipur itself make farcical the accepted norms of democracy for which Government of India stands for. This cannot be accepted by the MPP and the People; that is what the day June 18, 2001 tells the Government of India (GOI) and the world. The militant group who claims to have the mandate of the community they belonged to have its own political aspiration-the Nagalim. But their aspiration cannot override the wider public interests of the region peaceful co-existence of the different communities of the region, in whatever way it means,” the MPP said in a communique today.

“The secretive approach of New Delhi in dealing with the NSCN(IM) which centres around Manipur in all its aspects could equate with the early 20th century phenomenon of the Shimla Agreement of 1914 that had drawn the McMohon Line between India and Tlibet where no Indians or Tibetans were present. On and off, there have been selective leaks to the media by the Home Ministry about the possible “final Settlement Stage” that makes the public onboth side of the divide excited and suspicious of the atmosphere charged by the selective leaks of the Union Government,” the MPP opined.

However, interestingly the Manipur Government is in its usual form of inactivity.The fact of the matter is that the O. Ibobi Singh, Government in its experience of revitalizing the NSCN(IM) in 2004 byu causing (one ) the 52 days blockades of the national highways and (two) the Tripartite talks after Muivah’s homecoming episode of 2009 is twice shy to take any initiative to propose any alternative or to question the intenbtion of the Governbment of India for disturbing the minds of the public byu its selective leaks.

Now, that the talk has reportedly reached a stage where the interests of Manipur is blantantly put on the table. Therefore, it is time the Government of Manipur should join the talk, the party suggested.

The MPP then demands the Government of India not to make any harmful selective leaks that may lead to public disturbance. It also demands not to take any illinformed or unqualified decision that would threaten the social fabric of th3e North East Region and Manipur ion particular. The party further demands to make the talk tripartite: Government of India- NSCN (IM)- Government of Manipur, without any condition.

The MPP said it would extend all cooperation to make the talk tripartite, democratic and successful in the interest of the North East and the nation.

Finally, MPP solicits supports and cooperation from the public and all stake holders including civil society organizations of all communities across the board to find a way out of this `unwanted situation`.

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Electricity dept staffs abducted

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IMPHAL, December 20: Suspected KNA cadres have abducted four staffs of the state electricity department including a Section officer on the intervening night of December 18 and 19 from Tengnoupal in Chandel district. The four have been identified as Krishnamohon … Continue reading →

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The four have been identified as Krishnamohon (SO), Binadul, Rajen and Kulabidhu. They were abducted along with a white colour Maruti Gypsy bearing registration MN-05-4727, on which they were coming.

According to reliable source, the four were abducted by suspected KNA cadres for a monetary demand of rupees five lakh.

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Vishal Mega Mart opens at Imphal

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IMPHAL, December 20: A unit of Vishal Mega Mart one of India’s largest retail chains was inaugurated today at Laipham Khunou, Imphal East in a simple ceremony organized by the management and staff of Sigma Pvt Ltd. However, the Mega Mart could not be made open to public today in relation with the one day bandh on markets in greater Imphal area with regard to the call for ILP implementation in the state, called by FREINDS.

Presided over by Managing Director of Sigma Pvt Ltd, Seram Ranjitkumar Singh; the occasion was attended by Minister Social Welfare AK Mirabai, Zonal Manager of Central Bank of India Pramod Kumar Mohanty, and Business Head of Vishal Mega Mart, India Aashish Kataria as Chief Guest and guest of honour respectively.

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CM urges HCBA to suspend cease work strike

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IMPHAL, December 20: Chief Minister Okram Ibobi declared the High Court Bar Association’s demand for appointment of seven judges while setting up a separate High Court of Manipur reasonable and said that the state government is urging the Centre regarding … Continue reading →

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The Chief Minister was answering to a calling attention motion raised by MLA L Ibomcha Singh of NCP at the Manipur Legislative Assembly today.

The Chief Minister further said that it is not in the hands of the state government to set up a separate High Court and to appoint judges for it, but it is done by the Ministry of Home Affairs under the initiative of the Ministry of Law and Justice.

The Government of India has issued a gazette notification on June 4, 2012 regarding the setting up of a separate High Court of Manipur, the CM said.

The Chief Minister said that it is true that it is technically not feasible to have only three judges including a Chief Justice in the High Court of Manipur which will be coming up shortly.

He said that he is also aware that there is inconvenience in transferring a case which is admitted to Single Bench to a Double Bench.

In regard with the demands made by HCBAM, several meetings have been convened with association representatives and also the state has been in touch with the Centre on the issue, the CM continued.

The State will continue to urge the Centre to appoint atleast five judges if not seven as demanded by the HCBAM, the CM added.

Opposition leader Dr I Ibohalbi, joining in the motion, presented his observation that the Manipur’s Judgeship quota of four has not been fulfilled while 15 Judges has been appointed from Assam against the state’s quota of only 11.

The cease work strike has increase the number of pending cases, he added.

Social Welfare Minister Ak Mirabai Devi while clarifying to a calling attention motion raised by Thangmeiband MLA Kh Joykishan that the honorarium for the workers and employees of ICDS has not been paid, said that the reports published in a local daily regarding the issue is false.

She said that there are 9507 anganwandi centres and 298 mini anganwadi centres in the state. 90 percent of the funding for this scheme is provided by Centre while the state provides only 10 percent and the funding is done after taking approval from the finance department.

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Doomsday watch

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When Michael Coe, an expert on Mayas, a Mesoamerican civilization wrote in the 1960’s that December 21, 2012 could herald an “Armageddon” to cleanse humanity according to the ancient Mesoamerican culture, he would not have foreseen the amount of hype and hysteria that is being seen in various parts of the world. Fueled partly by doomsday Hollywood films on one hand, and internet fatalists over the years, the pitch of noise over a total destruction of the world has taken on a fervor and the bizarre. An international news section in a national newspaper mentioned of mass hysteria in a Russian prison, a Chinese man building survival pods for doomsday. The much respected newspaper, ‘The Guardian’ had a slightly tongue in cheek segment where the text was written in a question and answer sequencing. Amongst others, it said that in Chechnya and various other parts of Russia, politicians were calling for calm after superstitious citizens started panic buying of candles, torches, salt and matches. Elsewhere in China, it reported that there has been a healthy dose of doomsday profiteering with dedicated websites selling gas masks and tinned food, and one Chinese furniture-maker has been hawking a range of hand-built glass-fibre survival pods at exorbitant rates.

Coe had written that according to the Maya Long Count calendar, December 21, 2012 marks the end of the 13th bak`tun, an epoch lasting some 400 years and the beginning of the 14th which would coincide with an Armageddon or the end of the world. The fears of the world ending has led to such discussions and reactions amongst the public in countries all over the world that even the U.S. space agency National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has gone to the extent of making a statement to the effect that “our planet has been getting along just fine for more than 4 billion years, and credible scientists worldwide know of no threat associated with 2012.” According to NASA, the buzz over the December story started with claims that Nibiru, a supposed planet discovered by the Sumerians, is headed toward Earth. This catastrophe was initially predicted for May 2003, but when nothing happened, the doomsday date was moved forward to December 2012 and linked to the end of one of the cycles in the ancient Mayan calendar at the winter solstice in 2012 — hence the predicted doomsday date of December 21, 2012.” The idea of a doomsday or a cycle giving way to another way is also accepted in Hindu mythology with the talk of one era or a ‘jug’ giving way to another and a final cataclysmic end.

In an age of scientific advancements and technology, one would expect that people would scoff at the idea of a ‘doomsday’ but in this case, it is another face of technology: the internet, which has spread the panic. Social networking sites are full of discussions on the topic: some on the lighter side and some on the serious and philosophical. But one common strain that is emerging out of this universal fascination and fear psychosis is that the idea of ‘an end of the world’ is something that makes people feel bereft and at a loss: that there will be no tomorrow for anyone. Yet, it is equally true that there is the other kind of people who are trying to make the best of ‘an end of world scenario’ by offering ways out of being struck down. Cashing into the anxiety of people many have come up with contraptions that are supposed to keep one safe and sound as the world destructs and all too expectedly, they come with steep prices. What other irony can be there that in the event of the world ending, those who ‘have’ can still be saved while those who ‘don’t have’ will perish!

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