Imphal, June 10 2009: Under the aegis on one medical officer and a team of paramedical staff of its battalion, the 23 Assam Rifles of 10 Sector under HQ IGAR (S) organised a medical camp on Jun 9 at Sagolmang village. Besides providing free medicines, the batallion also extended CSD facilities to the villagers during the camp attended by 119 patients, conveyed the release of PRO IGAR (S) .

Imphal, June 10 2009: State Tourism Department invited applications from State students for admission in three-year BSc in Hospitality and Hotel Administration at the Institute of Hotel Management, Shillong and other diploma courses in Institute of Hotel Management, Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition, Guwahati. Details can be had from the Department, informed a press release.

Imphal, June 10 2009: All Manipur Gorkha Welfare Union, Nepali Sahitya Parishad Manipur, Bharatiya Gorkha Parisanga Manipur State Branch and All Manipur Gorkha Students' Union will jointly felicitate Nepali students who have passed this year's HSLC and HSSLC examinations in the first division. The bodies informed to submit attested marksheets to Gautam Book Store, Kanglatongbi, Mitra Pustak Bhandar, Kalapahar, Shiva Book Store, Kanglatongbi and Banskota Medicos, Mantripukhri on or before June 20 .

Imphal, June 10 2009: The felicitation function jointly organised by Thadou Students' Association and Major Pagin Kipgen Charitable Trust for the meritorious students who have passed this year's HSLC and HSSLC examination will be held on June 12 at Jubilee Hall, Motbung. The students' body informed the selected students to be present in the function with their parents.

Imphal, June 10 2009: Senapati District Students' Association congratulated the successful candidates of HSLC and HSSLC examinations. The students' body also expressed gratitude to SBI for opening an ATM kiosk at Senapati.

Imphal, June 10 2009: Thadou Tribe Council, Chandel district will organise one-day workshop on 'resurgence of Thadou Tribe' on June 13 at H Kotlienphai village near Pallel for which the hosts has appealed to heads of clan, village chiefs, scholars, etc of the tribe to attend the session for exchange of ideas.

Imphal, June 10 2009: Village Authority Chairman Council Tamenglong has informed that the PWD office of the district has been functioning without Executive Engineer since 2008 . Saying that the EE has never attended his office, the body asserted that the office is paralysed without him. The body urged the State Government to replace the current EE.

Imphal, June 10 2009: Director of University and Higher Education informed the candidates who had filled in prescribed forms and the candidates who had applied in plain papers for admission in the reserved seats of four-year BTech at ICFAI, Agartala have to appear in the ATIT 2009 test to be conducted by ICFAI at Imphal centre on June 28 . It further informed to collect admit cards through the website: www.icfaitech.org/agartala. Details can be had from the Directorate on June 10 .

Imphal, June 10 2009: Manipur haj Committee has convened a meeting of male participants of the annual Haj pilgrimage at 2 pm of June 13 at the Committee office.

Imphal, June 10 2009: To neutralise any attempt to declare him an absconding person following the interference of police commandos at the alleged behest of some persons from high authority, RK Jhalajit of Uripok Khawai Brahmapur is set to present himself before the police tomorrow after he arrived from Pune today.

Imphal, June 10 2009: The Zeliangrong Union (AMN) has decided to send a representation to the Central government for immediate intervention and to find a permanent solution to the problem of Longlei Apinjang (Ganglon Part IV) along Old Cachar Road, Manipur and Assam's NC Hills. In its emergency meeting of its Central Executive held on June 8 at ZU head office located at Kakhulong, the ZU, according to the statement of its secretary Dr S Xavier Pamei, also resolved to seek help from the public, civil societies and village authorities to extend helping hand to the displaced people taking refugee in Taosem subdivision. It further informed that a Relief Centre is being opened by the ZU at Kakhulong, Paona bazaar. Dr Xavier Pamei and Ajit Pamei may be contacted for further detail.

Imphal, June 10 2009: A meeting of former and present AMSU office bearers will be held on at 11am on June 12 at the office of AMSU Headquarters to discuss the recent cabinet decision of closing down of students' bodies office in and around educational institutions, the Network and Coordination Secretary of AMSU Headquarters, W Janmenjoy Meitei informed while appealing all concerned to attend the meeting.

Imphal, June 10 2009: A Farmers' Promotional Programme was organised jointly by the Buyers' Crop Science, Agritech Manipur and Irabot Foundation at Mayang Langjing Community Hall as part of the campaign for greening Manipur. The programme was marked by lecture and discussion wherein the President of Irabot Foundation, Th Iboyaima presided the session. Lively panel discussion was witnessed during the programme. Talks were delivered by Consultant of Agritech Dr Brajakumar, Marketing Manager of Buyer Crop Science, Partho Giri, Regional Marketing Manager, Tapash Prananick and Senior Assistant Professor of CAU Kh Ibohal.

Imphal, June 10 2009: Locals of Keishamthong Top Leirak have arrested three handcart pullers for stealing yesterday and later handed over them to the AMADA, a release stated. The three have been identified as Md. Zamir Khan Pathan (18) of Irilbung, Md. Athemba Chesham (18) of Mayang Imphal Bengoon Leirak Macha and Md. Abbaz Chesham of Kwakta Khunou Shanthrok Keithel, it added.

Imphal, June 10 2009: The Nongpok Ningthou Pakhangba Transport Cooperative Society has appealed the concerned authority to stop giving trouble to the transport society members in their business area by staffs of the transport department, according to L Ibobi, the president of the society.

Imphal, June 10 2009: The All Manipur Youth Protection Committee (AMYPCO) has alleged that BPL/APL card holders under Wangjing Tentha Kendra of Thoubal district have not got their share at the rate fixed by the government. A release issued by publicity secretary of the AMYPCO Lokendro Moirangthem also draws the attention of the concerned authority to look into the matter.

Imphal, June 10 2009: The Laiyingthou Sanamahi Thougal Kanglup (LSTK) has expressed gratitude to: residents of Thangmeiband Yumnam Leikai for contributing Rs 8,090; residents of Thangmeiband Sinam Leikai for contributing Rs 4,732; Soram Bijoy of Thangmeiband (Rs 5000); P Sarat, IAS, Principal Secretary, of Moirang (Rs 4000); Ngangom Ibocha, of Thangmeiband Yumnam (Rs 1000); Thongbam Brajamani of Thangmeiband Meisnam (Rs 1000); towards the construction of worship place for Sanamahi sect at Nongmaiching.

Imphal, June 10 2009: Around 60 selected students from outside the state will tour Moreh and Tamu in Myanmar via Imphal. The little children will leave Imphal for Moreh tomorrow morning at 7 . They will attend a programme at Tamil Sangam in Moreh. On June 12 they will cross the border and visit Tamu in Myanmar.

Imphal, June 10 2009: Imphal east police commandos nabed a KCP cadre identified as W Raju (21) son of Jugeshwor of Yunmam Khunou Makha Leikai from Lamlong bazar yesterday at around 1.30 pm.

Imphal, June 10 2009: Following the decision of the SPF Cabinet to deploy police commandos in the hill districts to help control the law and order situation, the Government has started the process of opening a post of the crack police unit in Ukhrul district, besides deploying one company of the IRB at Senapati district. The crack police commandos were earlier only deployed in the four districts of the valley at Imphal East, Imphal West, Thoubal and Bishnupur. The State Cabinet had during a meeting last month decided to deploy police commandos in the hill districts and accordingly it was also decided to recruit 1600 more personnel for the same. Consequently a commando post and an IRB post were opened at Ukhrul and Senapati respectively. Speaking to The Sangai Express a top police official said that the commando post opened at Ukhrul will have the strength of one company. The police commandos at Ukhrul will be deployed for counter-insurgency operation as well as for area domination, said the police official. Stating that some policemen currently on duty at Ukhrul will be shifted to Imphal the official said that some police commandos have already been deployed at Ukhrul to carry out their duties. In Senapati district one company of the IRB has already been deployed and they are now put on active duty, said the official further. The IRB company has replaced the 5 Manipur Rifles to assist the district police in the maintenance of law and order. The move to deploy police commandos and IRB in the hill districts was adopted to start the process of gradually replacing the Assam Rifles and the Army in the hill districts in counter-insurgency operations. Apart from recruiting 1600 fresh police commandos, the SPF Cabinet had also decided to recruit 600 Manipur Rifles personnel as well as 1200 personnel for the Reserve police.

Governor asks Govt to hold DC polls
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 10 2009: Governor Gurbachan Jagat is informed to have written to the State Government to do the needful for holding District Council elections even as reports suggest that development of hill districts suffers to the tune of about Rs 25 crores every year due to non-conduct of the election to the defunct District councils. According to an official source, the Governor strongly advocated holding of District Council elections without further delay. On atleast two occasions, Gurbachan Jagat had written to the State authorities to ensure completion of all election-related procedures which the State Government had been mulling to conduct this year. Even though there is no immediate response from the side of the State Government to the Governor's intimation, the source confided that necessary steps are being taken to hold the District Council elections near the end of the year. The State Government had actually begun processes to conduct the elections last year but scrapped the schedule as a consequence of the Delimitation exercise of Assembly constituencies that evoked demand for increase in the ACs. With lapse of more than 20 years since the last District Council election was held which has derailed administration of the Councils, it is said that development funds sanctioned by the 11th Finance Commission for implementation through the local bodies remained un-utilised with regard to the hill districts till date. On the other hand, a Hills Department source disclosed that the report prepared by the District Council Delimitation Committee to facilitate conduct of the Council polls has already been submitted to the State Government and the same is likely to be soon deliberated upon by the State Cabinet. Pointing out that task of the Delimitation Committee concerns, among others, increasing the number of District Councils to 24 from 20 and that contents of the 1175 page report finalised by IAS (Retd) Ch Birendra is being kept highly confidential, the source further said there would be no problem in the issuance of electoral roll as the document prepared by the State Election Department can be utilised for the same. owing to confidential nature of the Ch Birendra-report which was submitted to official/authority concerned in october last there is technical difficulty in presenting copies of the multi-paged document for Cabinet discussion as there is strong apprehension of leakage from printing house (Government press), the source explained regard delay in the preparation and presentation of the report. Confiding that there was budgetary allocation of Rs 73.80 lakh in the last fiscal to conduct the District Council elections, the source also said with the State Govt in December last deciding to delay the poll process for some time the earmarked fund also lapsed. Even though there had been proposal for printing of the report by utilising Finance Department machinery the process faced another delay as it collided with the Budget Session of the Assembly, the source maintained but expressed confidence the report could be placed for Cabinet discussion in the form of a Cabinet memorandum. In case of approval by the State Cabinet, the same report would require examination by the Hill Areas Committee, the source explained and further revealed that against an original amount of Rs 2.50 crores proposed as budgetary provision for the District Council elections this year the proposed amount has been trimmed to Rs 50 lakh. The trimmed amount further depleted by Rs 47 lakh owing to utilisation of the budgetary allocation in the repairing of those school buildings under the District Councils where polling stations were opened in connection with the recently conducted parliamentary elections for the 15th Lok Sabha, the source added.

RB slams money power in politics
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 10 2009: Rubbing salt into the wounds of the SPF Government on the law and order front, NCP State unit president Radhabinod Koijam has today said that the only way to bring a semblance of normalcy and governance in the State is to effect a change in the Government. Speaking at the 11th foundation day of the NCP at its office today, the Opposition leader said that if no change is effected in the present political climate then those who genuinely want to work for the upliftment of the State will taste defeat in the hustings. Sounding a warning to the people, Radhabinod said that the political culture is such that a number of moneyed contractors and businessmen have started entering politics. If these set of people are elected to power, then they will only rob the people instead of working for the welfare of everyone, he predicted. The NCP leader further said that the Congress did well in the recent Parliamentary election due to money power and not because of any popular mandate from the electorate and added that not more than 15 pc voted for the Congress while the rest were bought over with money. Money power will only pollute politics, he added. Elaborating on what the NCP has been doing for the betterment of the State, Radhabinod Koijam said that he personally met Union Agriculture Minister Sharad Pawar of the NCP at Delhi on June 8 and urged him to formulate an agriculture policy specifically for the North East, particularly for Manipur. The Opposition leader further said that he also met Union MoS for Rural Development Agatha Sangma and urged her to take up relevant rural projects in Manipur. NCP MLAs Doukhomang Khongsai, Salam Joy and Th Nandakishore who were also present that the NCP is a secular party and does not believe in caste politics. Its mantra is development for all, they claimed and added that development without peace is meaningless. The leaders also urged the party workers to put in their best foot forward to realise the objective of the NCP and make Manipur a better place.

Fitting tributes paid to Arambam Samarendra
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 10 2009: Fitting tributes were paid to Arambam Samarendra on his 9th death anniversary not only across the nook and corner of the State but also in Hojai and Cachar in neighbouring Assam today. The day was marked with the paying of floral tributes at the bust and photo of the late leader and writer in different venues where functions were held to pay homage to him on his 9th death anniversary.

Floral tributes being paid at the bust of Arambam Samarendra on his 9th death anniversary

Lamka, June 10 2009: Prophesying the vivid prospect of tourism industry in the State, Tourism Minister TN Haokip has today mooted on the need to ensure a hassle-free tourism related infrastructure development in Manipur. "From the bottom of my heart, I plead all sections of the society to leave a space for the industry to grow," he said addressing a handful of gathering while inaugurating a lodging hotel here. The State Government is struggling to rope in private investors on tourism sector, initially everyone was interested but on witnessing the ground reality where the gun culture floats, they quickly made a silent retreat, he maintained. Haokip was attending the inauguration of a novel entrepreneurs Venus Hotel, as he risked the prospect of entering the hotel sector despite the volatile law and order situation in the State. The hotel inaugurated today was only the second of its kind in the district drawing large number of foreigners and officials from outside the district. Recalling his trips across the globe, the Minister said, except for Switzerland, there are few countries that enjoy the picturesque and pleasant atmosphere of the State. Manipur shares a unique feature of being a plain in the midst of hills and mountains, he added. Like any other developing nation, Manipur too will one day witness a vibrant tourism industry which will play a vital role in uplifting the State' economy. So let us not burden the individuals or the Department of Tourism that has taken the initiative to develop the tourism infrastructure in the State, he said.

Children's Festival ends
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 10 2009: The three-day Inter State Bal Bhavan Children's Festival organised by Department of Social Welfare concluded at Khuman Lampak Kangshang today. Social Welfare Minister N Loken Singh and Chairperson of Manipur State Women's Development Cooperative Limited AK Mirabai graced the closing programme as the chief guest and president respectively. Director (Social Welfare) S Saratkumar Sharma, Chairperson of Manipur State Social Welfare Advisory Board (Imphal) RK Bidita Devi and Deputy Director (training) of Social Welfare Department K Sanajaoba were the guests of honour of the occasion. Presentation of cultural items by the participants including solo and group dance performances, and musical concerts were the main highlight of the closing programme. Inspite of the festival being organised at the national level no other states took part in the festival. However absence of their peers did not dampen participatory spirit of about 210 children representatives from the districts of Ukhrul, Churachandpur, Chandel, Senapati, Thoubal, Bishnupur and the twin capital districts. Closing function dignitaries handed over certificates to the participants.

CM returns
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 10 2009: Chief Minister O Ibobi who has been to Delhi recently returned home today after meeting Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, DoNER Minister VK Handique and Surface Transport Minister Kamal Nath. The Chief Minister discussed the setting up of the Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences in the State during his meeting with Azad. With the CM returning home today, Principal Secretary (Finance) AN Jha is set to attend the meeting of State Finance Ministers scheduled for tomorrow at Delhi. The meeting will be chaired by Union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee.

Phungyar woes
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 10 2009: Following the publication of the news story that a number of villages in Phungyar sub-division in Ukhrul district are facing a famine like situation following the crop failure last season, the Deputy Commissioner of Ukhrul has ordered the District Agriculture Officer to a conduct a survey of the said villages. Sources from the district administration said that relief material will be distributed on the basis of the report to be submitted by the District Agriculture Officer. The same will also be highlighted to the Relief Department. On the other hand an inquiry will soon be conducted on the construction of an LP school at Patbung village in Phungyar sub-division, following the report that the size of the LP school is that of a pan dukan.

Agatha Sangma sets date with State
Source: The Sangai Express / Newmai News Network

Imphal, June 10 2009: Agatha Sangma, the NCP Member of Parliament (MP) from Meghalaya and the Union MoS for Rural Development will be visiting Manipur on June 17 . The youngest Union Minister be here to honour the closing ceremony of the 11th Foundation Day of the NCP, Manipur. Informing this during the celebration of the foundation day of the NCP at its office in Thangmeiband of Imphal West district, president of the State unit, Radhabinod Koijam stated the daughter of PA Sangma, leader of the NCP will be in the state on June 17 to grace the closing ceremony of the party's anniversary.

UNLF aide, KCP man held
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 10 2009: Based on a tip-off, troops of 31 Assam Rifles of 26 Sector under HQ IGAR (South) yesterday cordoned off the house of one Zawin (36) s/o Limng of Ward No 2 Moreh and recovered several arms and ammunition. The search operation was conducted at around 8.30 pm yesterday on getting specific information about involvement of the individual in smuggling of arms and ammunition for UNLF cadres from Myanmar to Moreh, said a press release issued by PRO Hqs IGAR (S). The recovered arms and ammunition included one 9mm pistol with magazine, one radio set (Kenwood) with antenna and one mobile phone, it said, adding that the apprehendee alongwith the recovered items has later been handed over to Imphal West Police Station, the release added. In another incident, Imphal East district police commandos arrested one KCP (MC) cadre namely, Wahengbam Raju Meetei (21) s/o Jugeshor of Yumnam Khunou Makha Leikai from Lamlong Bazar yesterday.

DESAM cautions Government
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 10 2009: Urging the State Government to take up action by understanding the demand of the democratic agitation of the people, Democratic Students' Alliance of Manipur (DESAM) demanded to release the student leaders booked under NSA in the aftermath of assasination of Prof Md Islamuddin. Terming State Government's plan to book meira paibee leaders who are involved in setting aflame of effigies of Chief Minister under NSA is ridiculous, a press statement issued by its publicity and propaganda secretary KC Ibomcha asserted that such action terrifies the general public. Maintaining that the present Government starts taking action against innocent students, meira paibees and civil society organisation activists, the statement further said that DESAM would not retreat because of such actions. The students' body would continue the ongoing agitation until the arrested students are released, it added. DESAM has been spearheading various forms of agiataion in this regard, the statement said and added that instead of listening to the demands of the students and the genarl public, the Government threatened to book the agitators under NSA, which according to the students' body is not sensible.

Women welfare seminar held
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 10 2009: A seminar on women welfare and empowerment was organised by 8 Assam Rifles under HQ IGAR (S) from Jun 4 to 8 at Molphai village, Sajik Tampak. Thuomi Singson, Lhingboi Haokip, Chinkhothang Haokip and Chinneilhing Kipgen were the four main speakers of the seminar attended by about 200 women of the Sajik valley, said a release of PRO IGAR (S). Speaking on the occasion, the officiating commandant stressed on the importance of educating the women folk towards moving society in the right direction of peace and prosperity and the necessity of ensuring cooperation and mutual understanding between the locals and the Assam Rifles to bring about progress in the area, the release conveyed. Household materials like generator, tube lights, kanats, tarpaulin and water bowser were provided to the villagers during the event, the release said.

Govt's eyes on FRBM Act
Source: The Sangai Express / Newmai News Network

Imphal, June 10 2009: With the State Government apprehensive of achieving the target reducing the fiscal deficit of the State to 3 percent GSDP in 2008-09, the Government is considering resetting the date of achieving the target by amending to the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act (FRBM Act) which was enacted in the State six years back in 2003 . The Government of Manipur enacted the FRBM Act in 2003 . It lays emphasis on achieving reduction in fiscal deficit to 3 percent of Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) in 2008-09 . The actual position for 2008-09 is being ascertained within one month or so and if the target is not achieved, the Act will be amended.

Anti-malaria campaign at Ukhrul
Source: The Sangai Express / Addie Chiphang

Ukhrul, June 10 2009: In view of the frequent outbreak of malaria in the malarial prone areas of the southern side of Ukhrul district, a team of experts had started malaria eradication programmes from today. The inauguration function of the campaign and anti-malaria month 2009 observance was organised at Kamjong CHC sub-division, around 88 km from the district headquarters, along Indo-Myanmar border. Kamjong SDO Larte Kom was the chief guest while Kamjong village headman Ramzat was the guest of honour. MO in-charge Dr Athui gave the welcome address and the key not address was delivered by DMO, UDVBDCPS and the vote of thanks by MTS Ukhrul. On the sidelines of the camp, an official said that as soon as the news of spread of malaria and reports of death in Kamjong sub-division was received, the Department has taken up actions seriously and will do the needful not to spread further. Maintaining that as a precautionary measure around 20,000 (twenty thousand) of Chloroquine and three hundred RTK kits were given to the concerned CHCs of the affected and adjoining areas, he added. As per findings, over 17 positive cases were confirmed in Kamjong sub-division this year with one report of death of the case, he informed. He further informed that hundreds of villagers and headman of the adjoining villagers, social workers and the well wishers were also participated during the said camps.

Protests flay
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 10 2009: Protest demonstrations in denunciation of the detention of student activists who had been arrested by security forces in connection with the gunning down of Manipur University's Professor md Islamuddin continue unabated. flaying State authorities for arresting the student activists and demanding their release womenfolk and students staged sit-in-protests at Lamlong Keithel, Itam Nungoi, Pungdongbam, Seijang, Sekta, Leimakhong Mapal, Sabungkhok and Yaingangpokpi areas today. Out of a total of 13 student activists pulled up in connection with the slaying of the MU professor, eight were released on bail while five of them are serving jail term as NSA detainees.

Revised ex-gratia
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, June 10 2009: Subsequent to the decision of the SPF Cabinet, the ex-gratia of policemen killed in the line of duty as well as compensation to be paid for injuries sustained has been announced by the Government today. For policemen killed in the line of duty in extremist action, the ex-gratia has been hiked from Rs 2 lakhs to Rs 3 lakhs while for injuries suffered by policemen and civilians due to extremist action has been fixed at Rs 75,000 (permanent disability), Rs 50,000 (grievous injury) and Rs 10,000 for minor injury. No ex-gratia or financial assistance will be admissible to militants and over ground workers of militant groups banned or otherwise, said an order issued by the Government today.

SC allows Ningshen to be produced in Delhi court
Source: Hueiyen News Service / Agency

New Delhi, June 10 2009: The Supreme Court on Tuesday permitted the CBI to allow production of the alleged murderer of Dr Thingnam Kishan, Hopeson Ningshen, before a trial court in New Delhi instead of Manipur. Ningshen is the Lt Col of the NSCN (IM) faction's Kiusumong battalion. The CBI had sought directions from the apex court after it apprehended a threat to Ningshen's life and chances of unrest in the state if he was presented in a Manipur court. According to the CBI, on February 13 this year, Ningshen and other NSCN(IM) militants abducted Dr Thingnam Kishan Singh, SDO-cum-BDO of Kasom Khullen in Manipur's Ukhrul district, and five members of his personal staff. The militants allegedly let off two captives who belonged to the Naga community while killing Dr Kishan Singh and two others belonging to the Meitei community. The killings resulted in ethnic tension between the Meities and Nagas and led to a series of bandhs in Manipur. In view of the sensitivity of the killing, the state Government transferred the case to the CBI, which subsequently arrested Ningshen on May 29 . This is the first poser from the Supreme Court to the Manmohan Singh-led UPA government at the Centre and it has a serious bearing on the insurgency-caused deteriorating law and order situation in North Eastern states, particularly Manipur. A vacation Bench comprising Justices B Sudershan Reddy and Aftab Alam on Tuesday touched upon the seriousness of the problem after the CBI came up with an unusual plea�permit the agency to produce an NSCN (IM) leader accused of murdering a civil servant of Manipur in a court in Delhi instead of the designated one in Manipur lest it could lead to a violent Naga-Meitei clash. As additional solicitor general Amarendra Saran, appearing for CBI, tried to convey the grave law and order implications of CBI producing NSCN (IM) Kiusumong batallion "Lt Col'' Hopeson Ningshen, arrested on charges of murdering a Meitei SDO Dr Thingnam Kishan Singh, the Bench asked: "What is happening? The situation appears to be critical there". Saran agreed, for the judges appeared to have thoroughly scanned the petition and the supporting documents relating to the abduction and murder of Singh in February this year by NSCN (IM) cadre which caused a furious outburst of public anger after it learnt that the abducted Naga employees were released before the killing of the Meitei officer in Ukhrul district. In a rare order, the Bench as an interim order allowed the arrested militant to be produced before a Delhi court and agreed to hear the agency's petition wanting the transfer of the case from Ukhrul to Delhi. The CBI said the SDO and five of his staff were abducted on February 13 by NSCN (IM) militants. Three of them, who were Tankhul Nagas, were released the very next day. The bodies of three abducted officials were recovered from Senapati district on February 17 . "It may be pertinent to note here that all dead persons belonged to Meitei community and three released persons belonged to Tankhul Naga community, which resulted in ethnic tension between Meiteis and Nagas in Manipur," it said. Fearing another round of violent clash between the two communities, the CBI said if Ningshen was taken to Manipur for being produced in a court in Ukhrul, it could re-ignite passions and lead to a serious law and order problem, breach of peace, violence and threat to the life and safety of the accused. The accused would not be safe even in judicial custody, the CBI said reflecting its faith in the ability of the Ibobi Singh government to control the situation.

Samarendra remembered
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, June 10 2009: Arambam Samarendra was fondly remembered today by organising functions at many places in the state as well as in Cachar district of Assam on his 9th death anniversary. The functions were organised at various places across the valley districts of the state and at Cachar Jiribon of Cachar district and Hojai of Assam. Offering of floral tributes to the portraits of the Samarendra, recitation competitions, holding symposia, cultural dance shows, presentation of songs, Mukna match, etc marked the occasion. In Imphal West district, the 9th death anniversary was held at Aryan Theatre, Sagolband, Lou-u Sing-u Lup, Imphal, Arambam Samarendra Trust, Phayeng Scheduled Caste Rural Development Organisation, Mayang Langjing Youth Library, UPF Zonal and Apunba Nupi Lup, Mayang Imphal Universal Mother Organisation, etc. In Imphal East district, the functions were held at Social Standard Club in association with Arambam Samarendra Trust, Jiribam Development Organisation, Khongman Social Workers' Congress, Panthoibi Library Association, Sekta, Youth Voluntary Organisation, Wangkhei, Manipur State Shumang Leela Council and Women's Welfare Association, Poirei Konjil, etc. The functions were also held at Arong Khunou Awang Leikai organised by the Youth Development Club, at Langmeidong Keithel by Immortal Event Observation Committee, at Khongjom Bazar by Khongjom Circle Meira Paibi Forum, at Bengi Bazar, Charangpat by the Thoubal District United Women Development Organisation, at Wabagai Awang Leikai by Youth Development Association and at Yairipok by Thambalnu Sahitya Samiti, at Yairpok Bamon Leikai by Khoirom Youth Club, at kiyam Wangma Thaba by Kiyam Wangma Thaba Meira Paibi etc. in Thoubal district. In Bishnupur district, the functions were held under the aegis of the Nongmaikhong Development Club, Nongmaikhong Awang Leikai, Keibul Lamjao Development and Welfare Club, Youth Unity Club, Moirang Thana Leikai, Youth Development Organisation Kwakta, UPA Ningthoukhong Zonal Council, Ningthoukhong Gopinath Leikai, All Nambol United Club, Nambol Sabal Leikai, Society for Disable Persons, Kumbi. Meetei Council, Moreh also organised a function to mark the occasion. The various functions held in Cachar district of Assam were organised by All Assam Manipuri Students' Union, Jaribon, Cachar district, All Assam Meira Paibee Lup, Hojai Manipuri Sahitya Parishad and Manipuri Cultural Society. At an observance programme organised by the Manipur State Shumang Leela Council, former Art and Culture Minister, Dr M Nara attended as the chief guest and President of the Council, H Gunachandra and Director of Theatre Mirror, Imphal, Wareppa Naba graced the function as president and guest of honour respectively. Speaking on the occasion as chief guest, Dr Nara remembered Samarendra as a man who tried to preserve the culture and tradition of the state through Leela. He tried at his best level to promote and preserve Shumang Leela with determination that this art form is the only way to bring about reformation in the society.

Minister Agatha Sangma will be in Manipur soon
Source: Hueiyen News Service / Newmai News Network

Imphal, June 10 2009: Agatha Sangma, the NCP Member of Parliament (MP) from Meghalaya and the youngest Union minister will be visiting the state of Manipur on June 17. The new minister of states (MoS) for rural development will be here to honour the closing ceremony of the 11th Foundation Day of the NCP, Manipur. Informing of this during a celebration of the foundation day at its office in Thangmeiband of Imphal West district, president of the state party, Radhabinod Koijam stated the daughter of PA Sangma, leader of the NCP will be in the state on June 17 to grace the closing ceremony of the party's anniversary. Addressing the gathering further, the president of the state wing asserted the NCP being a national political party from the North East region was thorough with the needs and aspirations of the region adding the party will leave no stone unturned to solve the regional problems. He, however, lamented the situation of the state where money was becoming a factor during elections observing a gangster could become the chief minister and other ministers of the state after ten years or so. Radhabinod also held it unfortunate that many innocent people with good moral and personality with willingness to serve the state were unable to come forward due to lack of money power for elections. In this situation, gangsters with money could become the ministers of the state someday, he added. Asserting further that a certain candidate had spent over Rs. 1 crore during the last 15th Lok Sabha elections and that there were people played a double standard role in it, he warned it was time for the people of the state to analyse the situation.

Raising women's IRB a burden on state budget
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, June 10 2009: The raising of a new IRB women battalion would give an impact to the Manipur government's target of achieving reduction of fiscal deficit by 2008-09, officials of the state finance department commented. Manipur government has decided to raise one Indian reserved Battalion (Mahila) with 75% reimbursement of the standard cost of raising the battalion (Rs 13.3875 crore out of Rs 17.85 crore for each battalion). The reimbursement of standard cost of raising and capital infrastructure costs is to be done in the form of grant-in-aid from the funds allotted under the Security Related Expenditure Scheme of Union ministry of home affairs (MHA). The ministry will also reimburse Rs 6 crores for providing arms and communication equipments and specialized equipments for raising of two commando companies of the same battalion. For setting up the women IRB, state Cabinet convened under the chair of the chief minister, O Ibobi Singh has approved to the creation of 1007 posts of different ranks in the state police department. Police department work out the annual financial implication at Rs 20.59 crore including Rs 12.85 crore for recurring expenditure and Rs 7.73 crore for non-recurring expenditure. The work out expenditure will give impact to the Financial Resource Budget Management (FRBM) Act enforced in the state by the government with a set target of achieving reduction target of fiscal deficit by 2008-09 which government is considering for amendment to reset the date of achieving the target by 2009-10 . The FRBM target mainly emphasizes on achieving reduction in fiscal deficit to 3% of GSDP n 2008-09. The actual position for 2008-09 is being ascertained within one month or so and if the target is not achieved, the Act will be amended, on the instruction of the government of India to refine the target of reduction in fiscal deficit to 3.5 percent of GSDP by 2009-10 . For raising the new IRB, as per the terms, 75% of the initial cost, that is, about 13.38 crores will be borne by the Central government. The balance of 25%, that is, 4.47 crores will be meted out of the state resources. The net impact will be to the extend of Rs.4.47 crores in 2009-10 provided the state government keeps the cost of raising limited to Rs 17.65 crores per battalion and provided Centre reimburses the cost incurred in time. Since the cost of raising the new battalion will be borne partly by the Central government for the initial year, it will have marginal impact on the FRBM act in 2009-10 . However, the official of the state finance department observed that from the second year of raising the new battalion, the state government would feel the impact. The 13th Finance Commission's recommendation will be in force at that time and the state government would be able to bear the expenditure. Otherwise, there will be a consequential burden on state's resources that may adversely impact the ways and means of the situation, the finance department observed.

136 lakes of state vanished
Climatic condition of Manipur that existed 20 years back has now completely changed
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, June 10 2009: Out of 155 lakes that mother nature had endowed Manipur with, 136 had been dried up causing major changes in the climatic conditions of the state. According to data collected by the Environment and Ecology Wing, Government of Manipur, only 19 lakes still remain in the state. However, nine of these 19 lakes are also on the brink of vanishing. The lakes that still remain are Pumlen (Khoidum) Pat (lake), Ekop (Kharung) Pat, Loushi Pat, Waithou (Punnem) Pat, Aongbeekhong Pat, Ushoipokpi Pat, Sana Pat, Utra Pat, Tankha Pat, Kharam Pat, Lamphel Pat, Jailet Pat, Jeimeng Pat and Loktak Pat. But Lamphel Pat, Kharam Pat, Tankha Pat, Utra Pat and Sana Pat are lakes only in name, physically they are almost vanished (dried up). Official sources said, there are records with the Environment and Ecology Wing that there were once 155 lakes in Manipur. However, the only lake that is officially recognised as a lake by the National Lake Conservation Programme (NLCP) under Ministry of Environtment and Forest, Government of India is the Loktak Lake. The other lakes are not recognised as lakes by the NLCP. Therefore the state has not been able to get funds from the Centre for improving these lakes. On the changes that had come about in the climate of Manipur, experts informed this newspaper that 20 years ago, no one had ever expected that the maximum temperature of the state would reach 330C. The summer season then was also very short. Therefore, Manipur used to be known as a land that remain cold throughout the year. The experts further said, the maximum temperature of Manipur had never reached 250C 20 years back. The rate of rainfall then was also quite good and there used to be rainfall almost every month. Today the maximum temperature in April and May has reached 330C. Moreover there is no rainfall for months together. The experts said, the climate has changed for worse due to the fact that most of the lakes that used to exist in the hills and the valley had dried up and that the forests had been destroyed. lakes like Lamphel Pat, Porompat, Akampat and Yaralpat used to play a major role in maintaining the climate of Imphal. But today Lamphel Pat cannot be considered a lake at all. Likewise Porompat and Yaralpat are also only in name. Since so many invaluable lakes had disappeared, the imbalance in the climate came about. Besides, as there are no lakes into which the drains used to flow, flood occurs in most parts of Imphal city when even a little rain falls. Because of these factors, there arises the problem of scarcity of drinking water, the experts opined. In order to prevent the worsening climatic condition in the state, the Government of Manipur has started taking up measures to revive the dried lakes. As a part of these measures, the government is planning to dig up an area of 200 acres right in the centre of Lamphel Pat to create a lake.

Kala Akademi awardees
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, June 10 2009: Ningthemmayum (O) Mangi Shija and Padmashree Dr Moirangthem Kirti, have been declared Fellows of the year 2008 by the Manipur State Kala Akademi during its General council meeting on May 27 last chaired by the Governor Gurbachan Jagat, who is also the Chairman of MSKA. Announcing other award winners of 2008 in different fields, the Secretary of MSKA Dr Kh Sarojini informed that N Amusana and Lukram Manglembi have been declared the award winners in Manipuri Dance. The award winners in the field of music were Kshetrimayum Godadhor and Ngangom Ngoubi while Ningombam Jadumani is the winner of the award in theatre, it stated. Nandeibam Iboyaima is declared the winner in Shumang Leela while Maibam Tomba and Pukhrambam (O) Thoinu were declared winners in other forms of Art. In Thang-Ta, Sansenbam Yaima is declared the winner. In tribal culture, Darenglian Aimol and Lalthanghlun Guite were declared the winner while Kshetri Bir has been announced as the winner in literature for his novel 'Ei.' In fine arts, the declared winners were Khundongbam Ojit (lithography) and Vareimi Shinglai (Sculpture/mixed media), according to the statement.

MEELAL gives scholarships
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, June 10 2009: The Meetei Erol Eyek Loinasillol Apunba Lup (MEELAL) has today begun giving scholarship � to be given for a year � to some students who won various competitions organised by MEELAL. Winners of old language usage competition, essay writing competition in Meetei Mayek, and Poem writing competition organised by MEELAL would be awarded a monthly scholarship for one year. The launching ceremony of the one-year scholarship was today held at MEELAL's office here with Dr M Mahabir, Joint Director of Language Cell, Directorate of Education (S) as the Chief Guest. The function was also graced by the president of MEELAL Ng Yumjao as the functional president while the guests of honour were MEELAL advisors Th Jibanmala, T Laxman and the president of the All Manipur Recognised Private School Welfare Association, N Tomba. Speaking on the occasion, Dr M Mahabir said that the Meetei Mayek has been revived with much difficulty while also saying that it needs some technical modification. He said there will be some deformities in its usage if it is done in haste. He further stated that there has been a policy of the government to organise workshop in the usage of the Meetei Mayek alphabets that has got state government's approval. It is also taking up for the creation of Unicode in computer, he said while also saying that publication of dictionary in the script is also on the card. MEELAL president Ng Yumjao said that to promote the Meetei Mayaek script, students need to practice it in writing too. And to fulfill the need, MEELAL has been organising various competitions for students. He said that the cash award will be increased next time with sponsorship from concerned individuals. He urges the customer care centres of various mobile phone service providers to use Manipuri language first while talking to customers. He also said that any advertiser through hoardings to inscribe Meetei Mayek legibly even in just only ten words. Yumjao also said that MEELAL will begin doling charity to orphaned children soon. He also pointed out that it will organise discussion with experts on the use of harmonium while performing traditional rituals. He further said that the Meetei Mayek must be used on letter heads, DO letters, cash memos, etc of government departments, NGOs, institutes, private doctors, MLAs, Ministers, stores etc. He also advocates for the use of the script on college mark-sheets, certificates at the earliest time possible. MEELAL has also discussed the feasibility of introducing the Meetei mayek in some schools till class V, he said. Citing the achievements of MEELAL in inscribing the script on poster, banner, sign board, etc, and the publication of book for primary students, Yumjao also urged everyone to inscribe the script on the number plates of vehicles. Students who have been awarded scholarships were Moirangmayum Romesh in the category of old Manipuri language usage, Parinita of LFS, and Ningthoujam Kennedy of KS Blooming School, Khangabok.

DESAM reacts
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, June 10 2009: The threat of government to arrest and book those who participate in the protest agitations demanding unconditional release of the five students detained under NSA is part of the terrorising policies of the SPF government, a press release issued today by the Democratic Students' Alliance of Manipur (DESAM) stated. Reacting to the news reports that appeared in some sections of the media today, KC Ibomcha, Publicity and Propaganda Secretary of DESAM stated that the move of the state government has showed that there is no democracy in the state. A "police raj" equivalent to military or dictatorial form of rule is in force in the state, Ibomcha stated. He also alleged that the government led by Chief Minister O Ibobi, who always appealed to the people to leave violence maitaining that violence can't solve any problem, is killing people every day and indulging in violent acts to the contrary to his appeals. The ruling government is killing people at the rate of 45 to 60 per month and now it has started targetting student bodies, Meira Paibees, civil societies and hitting them. At this crucial juncture, DESAM will not remain silent and will continue till the demand for release of the detained students is fulfilled and urged the women groups, civil societies to join hand together and fight the government move with a concrete decision. SPF government has become a government who do not know the meaning of democracy. There is no more people's government in the state and become a government which only some vested interest persons rule over the people. SPF government had handed over the rights of the people to the military to become the land a lawless state, the statement said. Functionaries of DESAM are detaining under NSA by the government with baseless charges while the body is launching democratic forms of agitations to secure un-conditional release of them. But, with government insistence, the protest were foiling and threatening to detain the protestors under NSA. They also threatened to book the protestor burning effigy of the CM under NSA in total contrast to the government in Delhi, the national capital where there kept a place for people protest against the government. The attitude of the SPF government mean that any of the section of the people are not allow to talk or do any act against the SPF government whatever good or bad and everybody should followed what they wish to do, DESAM stated in the lengthy statement. In the meantime, staging of protest against the detention of the five students continued in different parts of the state by students and womenfolk today also. Schools and places where sit-in protest were staged today were Ching-tam high School, Yaingangpokpi, International Spring English School, Sekta, Yaingangpokpi Bazar, Saijang, Swambung, Etham, Nungoi, Punthongbam, Khurai Lamlong bazaar, DLI Standard English School, the Eastern Blooming Flower English School, Chingkhei Lambi etc.

Save Sharmila movement completes 6 months
Source: Hueiyen News Service / Newmai News Network

Imphal, June 10 2009: The Sharmila Kanba Lup (Save Sharmila Movement) on Wednesday completed six full months of its relay hunger strike in a move to save the 'Iron Lady' of Manipur, Irom Chanu Sharmila, from her present status of over eight long years of hunger strike calling for the repeal of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, AFSPA, 1958 from the state. Sharmila has been on a fast since November of the year 2000 fighting for the repeal of the draconian act in the state of Manipur. Formed on December 9, 2008, the women oriented Lup then resolved to go on a relay hunger strike in solidarity with Sharmila until the government of Manipur comes out with a solution. And interestingly, even as the world and Manipur celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) on December 10, a day after the formation of the movement, the Lup initiated its relay hunger strike at the PDA complex, Porompat in Imphal East district of Manipur calling on the state government to come up with a solution to Sharmila's quest for freedom of human rights. Supported by a series of women organisations such as Manipur Tammi-Chingmi Apunba Nupi Lup, Women's Association for Civic Action, Kangleipak, Monnu Erikkhombi Lup, United Women's Front, etc. in its initial days, the relay hunger strike of the Lup only seems to grow from strength to strength with more organisations, civil societies and NGOs lending a helping hand to their fight for human rights in Manipur. Various known personalities were also reported to have visited them, sharing words of encouragement and support. One such known personality was Dr. Sandeep Pandey, National co-ordinator of National Alliance for People's Movement, who also visited Sharmila on December 29 last and referred to her as the living Gandhi. Asserting Sharmila had chosen the right democratic form of protest, he also called on the people of the state to support the 'Iron Lady' of the state. It is also interesting to note here, the Manipur People's Party (MPP), a major political and opposition party of Manipur also visited Sharmila and extended all possible. Associations of Independent Minds (AIMS), a major civil society of the state also visited Sharmila and opined she was declared "Champion of Human Rights". With all these supports and encouragement, the Sharmila Kanba Lup continues to persevere in its strife calling upon the government of Manipur to save Sharmila from her present status. As per reports, Sharmila was arrested by the state government on March 9 this year, just two days after she was released by the chief judicial magistrate of Imphal East, for the tenth time and which is seen by the public as a yearly practice of the state government on the human rights fighter of the state. Reports also have it thatshe is being 'forcefully' nose fed at the security ward of the Jawahar Lal Nehru (JN) hospital in Imphal East district. Hence, calling on the state government to save Sharmila from her present status, the Lup continues to sit-in-protest at the PDA complex in Imphal East on daily basis completing full six months Wednesday.

One arm smuggler held
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, June 10 2009: Troops of 31 Assam Rifles of 26 Sector under HQ IGAR (S) apprehended one arms smuggler involved in smuggling of arms, ammunition and warlike stores for UNLF yesterday around 8.30pm in Moreh, PRO of the IGAR (S) stated in a release. It stated that the suspect house was cordoned based on specific information regarding the individual involved in smuggling arms and ammunition for UNLF from Myanmar to Moreh. The apprehended individual was identified as Zawin (36) son of Limng, a resident of Ward No 2, Moreh. One 9mm Pistol with magazine, one Kenwood Radio Set with antenna and one Mobile Phone were recovered from him, it added. The apprehended individual along with the recovered items has been handed over to the Imphal West police station, it stated.

CBI submits charge-sheet on KVK fund misappropriation case
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, June 10 2009: The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) has submitted charge-sheet to case of fraudulent withdrawal of funds amounting to Rs 85.58 lakh using forged Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP) card from the Imphal Post Office around three year back. The charge-sheet was submitted in the court of the special judge, Imphal east district against four person including three officials of the Imphal Post Office stating further investigation into three others including two officials of the same post office are yet to complete. Following the prayer of the CBI, the court summoned the person involved in the charge sheet to appear in the court on July 7 . CBI, ACB, Guwahati handling the case submitted the charge-sheeted against the former postal agent Thangjam Anupama of Wangkhei Thambalkhong Laishram Leirak, Bashab Bijay Dutta of Netaji Subhas Palli, former assistant postal master Ksh Bimola of Kongpal Kshetri Leikai and Govind Singh of Tekarchand, Baliya, UP. They were alleged of colluders in the withdrawal of the amount Rs 85,58,425 using forged of the Kisan Vikas Patra (KVP) card under the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK), which CBI registered an FIR case and investigate into the case. CBI authority is yet to submit charge-sheet three persons, namely former deputy post masters of the Imphal Post Office, Chingaikim Vaiphei, GS Rongmei and SP Vaiphei who also alleged of involving in the fraudulent withdrawal of the funds. CBI informed the court that they are yet to make arrest to any of the persons allegedly involved in the case and prayed the court to summoned them by the court. In the charge-sheet submitted to the court, it was mentioned that during the investigation, the agency found that former deputy post masters of the Imphal Post Office, Chingaikim Vaiphei, GS Rongmei and SP Vaiphei on collusion with other persons withdrawn the funds using missing 420 KVP cards. The fraudulent had cost great lost to the government exchequer. In the year 1998, bank KVP cards bearing serial no. from 46 CC 8400001 to 46 CC to 100000 of Rs 10,000 denominations missed while transporting from India Security Press to Circle Stamp Depot located in Kolkata. Central government notified the missing of the cards with the serial numbers of the missing cards. The government also circulated the same to all the post offices across the country by issuing corrigendum. In the later part, two persons, Bhashab Subash Dutta and Sh Govind who came to the state in collusion with the some officials of the Imphal post office withdrawn the amounts using 425 cards of Rs.10,000 denominations. While submitting the charge-sheet, CBI also prayed the court to summon the persons allegedly involved in the charge-sheet as they are yet to taken into custody by the CBI authority. Th Anupamaand Ksh Bimola had appeared in the court yesterday but as Bhashab Subash Dutta and Sh Govind did not appeared in the court yesterday. They have been asked to appear before the court on July 7, 2009, the source said.

Women panel urges govt's lasting solution non-locals issue
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, June 10 2009: Chairperson of the state women commission, Dr Ch Jamini who paid a visit to Dharamasala where non-local migrants are taking refuge along with members of the commission suggested government for finding a last solution to the repeated attack on the life of the non-local migrants in the state. Members of the commission, Lhingjaneng Gangte and Laaljan Begumalso accompanied the visit of the chairperson and held interaction with the wives of the non-local migrant labourers who poured down their grievances. During the visit, Dr Jamini said that keeping confined the non-locals at a place to avoid attack on their life is not the lasting solution. Government should take up find a way to solve the problem forever at the earliest. Speaking to the visitors, 40-year old Shanti wife of Ramanda hailing from Behuraj of Bihar expressed that many Manipuris are also working in Bihar as doctor, nurse, engineer and others professions. "They are not attack or kill by any of the residents there. So, there is no reason for killing Biharis working here. If wanted to live in togetherness spirits, it will be better to stop attacking and killing us," she said. Shanti and her husband run a hotel at Mayang Imphal Bazar before they took asylum at Dharamasala. Even though, they are repeatedly attack and killed, they will not go back to their home state. They will go to the place where they work earlier after some days stay at the relief camp, Laxman, a barber said. He said that he will earn enough money till his family could repay the money borrowed from others. "I will work and earn till the family relief from debt," he reiterated. In the meantime, with the non-locals started leaving the relief camp, only 13 are in the camp today. Those staying in the camp also blamed the government not providing any relief materials to them even though they are in the camp for the last six day. The women commission provided Rs 3000 as assistant to the non-locals at the relief camp. The commission further paid visit to the woman Worlingla (28) wife of SW who has been hospitalizing at JN Hospital after she was abandoned after beaten up by some unknown persons when she out from home to phone to her younger sister. Warlingla has been leading a life of woe as apart from assaulting her by the unknown, she has been living at her parental home after her husband and family ill-treated her. Dr Jamini assured the victim woman that the commission will take up step to make inquiry into the incident of beaten up her.

Ex-gratia rate revises
Source: Hueiyen News Service

Imphal, June 10 2009: The state government has revised the existing rate of ex-gratia of Rs 2 lakh to Rs 3 lakh with immediate effect payable to State police personnel in the event of death in extremist violence and in the event of injury to civilians/state police personnel in extremist related violence, according to a government order. The order to this effect issued by Additional Secretary (Home), M Yaiskul Meitei also set the rate in cases of injury to state police and civilians. Accordingly, it fixed Rs 75,000 for injury leading to permanent disability, Rs 50,000 for grievous injury and Rs 10,000 for minor injury. The order further said that no ex-gratia or financial assistance for injury is admissible to militants and overground workers of militant groups,banned or otherwise. The revised rate of ex-gratia and financial assistance for injury will come to effect from the date of the issue of orders in pursuance of MHA letter (No 11012/31/97-NE dated 26-7-2006, adding that no old cases shall be opened. The order is issued with concurrence of Finance Department in accordance with an UO note.

New Delhi, June 10 2009: Thokchom Nanao Singh assured himself of a medal by advancing to the semifinals of the Asian Boxing Championships in Zhuhai, China on Tuesday. Youth World champion Nanao (48kg) rallied to beat Chia-Lun Lu of Chinese Taipei 8-4 to reach the semifinals. He trailed by a couple of points in the opening three minutes before getting his act together in the next two rounds. "We were slightly scared after the first two rounds but Nanao boxed really well to pull it off," national coach Gurbax Singh Sandhu said. Nanao will face Mongolia's Nyambayar Tughtsogt in the semifinals. Meanwhile, Dinesh Kumar (81kg) scored a sensational knock-out win and fellow Olympian Jitender Kumar (54kg) was equally dominating in his quarter-final triumph as three Indians stormed into the semi-finals on Wednesday. Dinesh was brutal in his knock-out win over Hsiao Huang-Yi as the bout had barely started when a ferocious body blow by the Bhiwani-boxer grounded his Taipei rival for good. Jitender thrashed Enkhjargal Iderkhuu of Mongolia 10-2 in a lopsided bout to assure himself of his first medal since jumping a division from fly weight (51kg) this year. Jai Bhagwan (60kg) was no less impressive in his 12-3 victory over local favourite Hu Quinxun. The trio's triumph means that India is assured of at least five medals as Nanao Singh (48kg) and Paramjit Samota (+91kg) had also made the semifinals. Jitender takes on Chinese Taipei's Liu Shih Jung in the semifinals on Friday. Jai Bhagwan will be up against Kazakh Zhailauov Gany in the semifinals. Dinesh also has a Kazakh awaiting him in the semis. The World Cup bronze medallist meets Yeleussinov Dauren on Friday.

Imphal, June 10 2009: MPVFT, Imphal and VSAC, Churachandpur scored identical 2-1 victories over their respective opponents in group matches of the 1st Masters' cup Invitation Football tournament today. In a Group A match at Saikot ground (CCpur), Seilal scored in the 7th and 20th minutes as VSAC defied a late charge by VSAI, Thangmeiband veterans to win at 2-1 . Stanley scored the latter's goal in the 53rd minute. At NESU ground, host KVFA (Khurai) suffered 2-1 loss to MPVFT with Maipaksana (4th) and Raikumar (43rd) netting the goals for the winning side after K Tomba had pulled back one for the Khurai veterans. The tournament, played on home and away basis, is being participated by 20 teams clusttered into four groups.

Chennai, June 10 2009: In a keenly contested match Bengal defeated Services 2-0 in the first semi-final to enter into the finals of the 63rd National Football Championship for Santosh Trophy at the, Nehru Stadium, Chennai on Wednesday. Services had no one but themselves to be blamed for the defeat as they failed to capitalise on the chances that came their way and their defenders never marked any of the Bengal strikers. Though it was Services that started on an attacking but they kept on committing the same mistakes that they committed in their previous matches. In the 4th Shaji shot was off target and four minutes later Raleng shot over the bar from outside the box. Bengal initially had a shaky start and in the 12th minute Snehasish Chakraborthy flag kick was well headed by Lalanpuia only to find Services custodian Sujan Suku. Five minutes later Bengal was back in action but a Denson Devdas shot was blocked by Services defenders. In a counter attack CT Sajith cross from left flank had both Raleng and Mahesh Rai failing to connect it from inside the box. Raleng who has been off color in the tournament received a cross from Mahesh Rai in the 25th minute but the strikers shot was not powerful enough to pose for Bengal outfit. In the half hour mark Lal Routafela shot was punched over the bar by Bengal custodian Subhashis Roy Chowdhury. With shots taken at Bengal goal at regular interval, the victors pulled up their socks and in the 34th minute Snehasish gave a cross from Lalanpuia whose shot from the left flank had Gourango Biswas heading it over Sujan Suku to give Bengal a 1-0 lead. Two minutes later Bengal were back in action but Denson Devdas shot was away from the near post as the match entered into the lemon break with Bengal leading 1-0 . The start of the second half had Services once again starting on a positive note and trying hard to find the equalizer. In the 63rd minute Shaji was brought down inside the box and Services were awarded an indirect free kick. Services strikers failed to get the ball past Bengal defenders from the indirect free kick and in a counter attack Gouranga Biswas got a cross from Surojit Roy and Biswas dribbled past Sujan to tap it in to give Bengal a 2-0 lead. Both the teams played with short passes and there was not and there were hardly any swift moves made. Services got two chances in two minute but they wasted both. In the 80th minute Shaji was left unmarked and his shot well stopped by Subhashis and a minute later Manish Negi header had Subhashis Roy Chowdhury making a diving save to help his team inch closer to a yet another title. Meanwhile a keenly contested match is expected as after a span of ten years, both Goa and Tamil Nadu will once again come face to face in the second semi-final of the 63rd National Football Championship for Santosh Trophy at Nehru Stadium, Chennai on Thursday. Last time it was Goa who had come better of hosts with a 3-1 victory, but now things are different. "It is going to be very tough for us as Tamil Nadu will be playing in their home ground. They are the hosts and they will surely have the home advantage turning their way. We would try hard to repeat the history tomorrow," Goa skipper Climax Lawrence said. Tamil Nadu are high on confidence and they have a balanced side with Muthu and Riju combining well upfront and Kulthungan supporting the strikers well in the mid-field. It's not just their strike force but having the likes of Ravanan, Kali, Mohanraj and Prem Kumar in their defence makes it impossible for opponent to break in their den. And Goa team knows it very well. "They have young players in their side who have combined well. Riju has been highest goal scorer in the tournament and with Ravanan, Mohanraj in defence and VP Sathish beneath the bar it is going to be a very tough match. Though we also have some experienced players but it is not going to be easy for us," Climax added. Goa on the other hand has a side which has players mostly from I League and they haven't conceded a single goal in tournament so far. With attacks from flanks they can be dangerous on a given day if they get their acts together. Marcus Mascarenhas has been a delight to watch and he has a good partner in form of Beevan D'Mello upfront. The duo has the ability to break into the opponents den at their will. Though the Goan outfit has some injury troubles in Branco and Abranches but they have players who can replace them.