New Delhi, Dec 29 (ANI): On his first visit to New Delhi after being sworn-in as the Chief Minister of Gujarat for a third time, Narendra Modi today discussed the formation of the State Cabinet with central BJP leaders.

Earlier today, Modi was given a grand reception on his arrival at the airport by the BJP's Delhi Unit.

He then moved to senior party leader, L K Advani's residence, where he discussed his ministry's formation.

"I discussed Cabinet formation in Gujarat," Modi told reporters after the meeting.

Party General Secretary and in-charge of the Gujarat election Arun Jaitley, party President Rajnath Singh and other leaders, including Jaswant Singh and Sushma Swaraj were also present at Advani's house.

After the meeting at Advani's residence, Modi called on former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee to seek his blessings.

"This is the first time that I have come to meet Atal Behari Vajpayee after winning elections in Gujarat. I am also happy that our party (the BJP) has won the Himachal elections too," Modi said.

Modi was sworn-in as the Gujarat Chief Minister on December 25. (ANI)
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Agra, Dec 29 (ANI): At least three members of a family today died in a fire mishap in Agra.

The incident occurred in a house in the Trans Yamuna Nagar colony of the city.

"When I came in the morning and saw smoke billowing out, I took a ladder and tried to enter the room. I broke the window and saw that the house was afire. I sprayed water to extinguish the fire. I also saw a cylinder leaking and brought it out of the house. Three people died in the mishap," said Harshit, one of the residents.

The actual reason for the fire is yet to be ascertained.

Raghunandan Shrivastav and his two sons Rahul and Rohit died on the spot. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec.29 (ANI): On the occasion of its national convention day in the capital on Saturday, the Panun Kashmir, a leading organisation of Kashmiri Pandits,  resolved to relentlessly pursue the demand for a  homeland within the constitutional framework of India.

The convention demanded that in any future dialogue process, the atrocities suffered by the Kashmiri Hindus must be taken into consideration.  

Speaking on this occasion, Dr. Ajay Chrungoo, the Chairman of Panun Kashmir, said: "Our vision of Panun Kashmir is a vision of renaissance of Kashmiri Pandits. Nurturing of a political consciousness, based not on narrow sectarian considerations but on civilisational perception, has been our thrust. It has led to shedding of despondency and defeatism and ushered in a new era of hope and dynamism."

"To sustain this dynamism and impart sufficient kinetics to our movement, a simultaneous rejuvenation of cultural consciousness was imperative," he added.

Panun Kashmir demanded the immediate announcement of an employment package for 25,000 Kashmiri Pandit youth.

He also wanted the setting up of a special tribunal to address the issues concerning forcible occupation, fraudulent usurpation of Kashmiri Pandits' properties and shrines along with the updating of electoral rolls.

Panun Kashmir, an area in Jammu and Kashmir demanded by the Kashmiri Pandits. (ANI)
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Amritsar, Dec.29 (ANI): The 116th Annual Convention or Jalsa Salana of Ahmadiyya Muslims started here today.

Nearly 20,000 Ahmadiyyas from around the world, including 4600 from Pakistan have reached here to take part in the event.

Addressing the gathering, Mirza Masroor Ahmad, the head of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Association, said: "As we are all aware the situation in Pakistan has become extremely volatile and instable. It seems that the Government has become virtually powerless in the face of the terrorists and extremists. Such people and organizations are using the name of Islam to justify acts that are totally alien to the teachings of Islam."

He said that terrorism in Pakistan has gone out of control, and as a result, children are being orphaned and women widowed.

"We must pray that God instill in the people of Pakistan intelligence and understanding," said he.

The event will conclude on December 31. (ANI)

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Bhubaneswar, Dec 29 (ANI): The overall situation in Orissa's Khandamal District improved on Saturday with no violence reported from there.

Day curfew was lifted in Phulbani and Daringibadi towns following improvement in the law and order situation.

However, night curfew will remain in force for sometime, police said.

Meanwhile, the state government has set up a judicial commission, headed by Judge (Retired) Basudev Panigrahi to probe the communal violence in Khandamal District. 

The government has placed the Circle Inspectors of Police (CI) of Tikabali and Phiringia, and Revenue Inspector (RI) of Khajuriapada under suspension.

The miscreants had torched the two police stations and had set the revenue office on fire. The CI of Phulbani Sadar was also transferred.

With the recovery of one more body on Saturday, the death toll in the communal violence in Kandhamal district has increased to three, officials said.

While one person was killed in police firing at Brahmanigaon village, two died in stone-pelting incidents in Barakhama village, sources said.

On Friday, Orissa Steel and Mines Minister Padmanabha Behera resigned owning "moral responsibility" for the communal violence.

Over a dozen churches and prayer houses in Khandamal District have been torched since Hindus and Christians clashed over Christmas celebrations on December 24.

The violence was sparked off on Monday when Vishwa Hindu Parishad activists led mobs burnt down churches.

The saffron activists were reportedly agitated following an attack on VHP leader Laxamanananda Saraswati, who led an anti-conversion movement. (ANI)
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Bihar, Dec 29 (ANI): A two-year-old girl born with four arms, four legs and extra
internal organs is worshipped like a Goddess in her village even after being successfully operated upon last month to cure of her birth defect.

Lakshmi Tatma, born with the deformity was named after the four-armed Hindu
goddess of wealth (Lakshmi).

Indian Goddesses and Gods are depicted in epics and mythological books as
very powerful with more than one pair of hands equipped with arms to kill
the demons.

Referred to as an incarnation of the Goddesses, the villagers want to build
a permanent temple to honour the deity. 

"When she was born, she had four hands and four legs. We were very happy that the Goddess has taken birth. When she was being taken to Bangalore for the operation, all of us thought that there should be some remembrance of the form in which she was born, so we decided to build a temple and worship her." said Indradev, Lakshmi's uncle.

"Whenever such a child is born, we have seen that the child doesn't
survive. But Lakshmi fought back and she survived the operation too. The
villagers worship her for the same," said Rajesh, Sarpanch,
Kottarpatti village.  

A team of around 30 medics removed what amounted to Lakshmi's headless
identical twin sister who was joined at the pelvis and who did not develop and
separate properly in the womb, in an extremely rare case, in a risky
operation.

The rare birth defect is known as a parasitic twin.

While cutting off the extra limbs, doctors had also removed extra
internal organs and corrected a deformed skeleton.

The hospital said it did not charge Lakshmi's poor parents even a penny of
the steep 2.5 million rupees the surgery cost.

She will need what doctors termed corrective treatment at a later date, but
is being allowed to go home as her parents were keen to get back to their
village.
   
Lakshmi's parents are poor labourers from Bihar state in northern India.
They told the media that they had refused offers from circus owners to buy
their daughter. (ANI)
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Kohima, Dec 29 (ANI): The major sections of Naga society have welcomed the news of the unification of the different warring groups. However, some of them believe that the unification bid should be comprehensive and it should include all the Naga tribes.

This year, the Christmas was very special for the people of Nagaland. It was for the first time in many years that the people celebrated the festival without fear of factional clashes and violence.

Common citizens of the state have heaved a sigh of relief after the National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isac-Muivah faction (NSCN-IM), National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Khaplang faction (NSCN-K) and Naga National Council (NNC) led by Adino Phizo signed a peace pact a couple of weeks ago to bring lasting peace in the state.

"It's a desire of every Naga that there should be peace and unification. So, on this basis all the warring groups have come together at the central level but this doesn't mean that they have already come together. It's still a process to achieve a large base in the near future. As everybody wants peace and unity, therefore, they are involved in such negotiations," said Kevileto Kiewho, Naga Hoho, Vice President.

"Unity and peace has always been the cry of Naga youth. We have been watching blood being   shed throughout our lives. I think it had become a part of our daily routine. Earlier the front page of the newspapers used to be occupied with the news of the killings in the State. But now there is no such news in the papers. This is what were asking for all these years," said Joshua, a Naga youth.

A senior journalist, Karaiba Chawang, said, "Almost all the tribes of Hoho's feel that the unification of Naga is a compulsion, irrespective of being a big or a small tribe.  Plus all the tribes have said that it should cover all the Naga inhabited areas in the general observation and liking of the Nagas."

The peace pact is significant because it spells an end to the clashes between the cadres of the NSCN (IM) and NSCN (K) and NNC led by Adino Phizo. The citizens of the state will be benefited from the peace dividend and the focus will shift to ensuring their development and economic well being. (ANI)
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Ludhiana, Dec 29 (ANI): The image of a typical cop with layers of flab is a major cause for concern and raises questions about fitness in the force.

For the Punjab police, it is quite a challenge to persuade these obese personnel to shed flab. But, they have evolved a novel way to dispose some of the adipose by shaking a leg to bhangra during their daily drill.

During a recent routine check-up, it was found that as many as half the police force in the state was afflicted by ailments including obesity.

"There is no time for resting and their food intake is highly irregular. There is very little time to bite into a morsel or to spare time for the family. So when they work under such difficult situations and are stressed out. Their mental and physical equilibrium is deeply disturbed. It is very essential that they are physically and mentally fit," said Dr. D J Singh, Dy. Director, Punjab Police Training Academy, Phillaur.   

After honing their skills at wielding the stick and regulating traffic, the "well-endowed" Punjab police cops in Batinda have now added peppy bhangra to their daily drill.

A session of the vigorous folk dance is part of the weight-loss programme designed by SSP Naunihal Singh, who was reportedly overwhelmed by the collective fat of his force.

The initiative is already beginning to show results with the 264-odd policemen having shed two kg each in two months.

"Our fitness levels have gone up. I have shed more than 2.5 kilograms. All the personnel undergoing the weight-loss regime are totally relaxed. Earlier, they lived under tremendous stress and now they have destressed practicing the Bhangra, physical exercise and yoga in the early morning," said Mohan.

Ram, another personnel added, "Policemen will gain relief from several ailments and develop trim physiques. And these smart Punjab police personnel can be spotted and signalled out even in a crowd," Singh said. 

While more then half of these police personnel were prescribed the bhangra drill, the rest were sent for yoga practice. They were further sub-divided into 12 teams comprising 22 members each with a gazetted officer at the helm.

It has been announced that a competition to assess the weight loss will be held in February 2008 and rewards will be given to teams who report a substantial loss. Those who don't will be penalized. (ANI)
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Srinagar, Dec 29 (ANI): A high security alert has been sounded in Jammu and Kashmir following the violence that rocked Srinagar in the aftermath of former Pakistan premier Benazir Bhutto's assassination.

A large number of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel have been deployed in the region. The security personnel have geared up to control violent protests and riots.

"The forces are alert everywhere. The Chief Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir accompanied by the DGP conducted a review of the ground situation this morning," said SK Jain, IGP, CRPF, Srinagar.

According to official sources, security has been beefed up further not only in the hinterland, but by troops deployed along the Line of Control (LOC) as well. They added that the international border with Pakistan has been placed on maximum alert.

Protestors took to the streets, turned violent and started pelting stones on the security forces on Friday. In return, the forces resorted to teargas shelling to control the violent mob.

Security personnel including mediapersons were also injured during the incident.

Security forces faced a tough time trying to control the angry mob that was trying to attack a nearby police station.  (ANI)
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Shimla, Dec 29 (ANI): The newly-elected BJP MLAs in Himachal Pradesh met here and elected Prem Kumar Dhumal as the leader of the BJP legislature party on Saturday.

Party's chief-ministerial candidate Dhumal is expected to meet State Governor VS Kokje to stake claim to form the next government in the state.

Dhumal, who is likely to take the oath of office on Sunday, will become state's chief minister for the second time.

Dhumal won from Bamsan in Hamirpur district, defeating Congress candidate Col (R) BC Lagwal by 26,000 votes.

After winning nearly two-third seats in Gujarat earlier this week, the BJP scored a comfortable victory yesterday in Himachal Pradesh, bagging 41 seats in the 68-member Assembly.

The party has returned to power in the state after a gap of five years. This was its best performance in the state, with having increased its vote share by nearly 12 per cent.

On the other hand, the Congress won 23 seats and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) won one seat. Independents bagged the remaining three seats.

Buoyed by the results in the two states, BJP leaders warned that it showed that the Congress was bound to lose Lok Sabha elections in 2009. But, the Congress downplayed its defeat in Himachal Pradesh, citing "anti-incumbency" as the single largest factor that went against it.

Incumbent Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh retained Rohru in Shimla District winning by a margin of 14,000 votes.

The term of the 68-member State Assembly is to end on March 9, 2008. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec 29 (ANI): Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi arrived here on Saturday morning to meet Central BJP leaders.

Modi was given a grand reception on his arrival at the airport by the Delhi Unit of the BJP. He then moved to senior party leader, L K Advani's house.

Party General Secretary and in-charge of the Gujarat election Arun Jaitley, party President Rajnath Singh and other leaders including Jaswant Singh and Sushma Swaraj are also present at Advani's house where a meeting is going.

There were speculations that Modi is expected to meet former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee later in the day, but according to some sources he will take a return flight to Gujarat.

This is Modi's first visit to the Capital after being sworn-in as the Chief Minister of Gujarat for a third time on December 25. (ANI)
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Abohar border (Punjab), Dec 29 (ANI): Indian security forces manning the Indo-Pak border have been put on high alert after the assassination of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto on Thursday.

"As we share borders with Pakistan, we need to be careful and particularly after the recent terror attack. It is expected from us that we will heighten security measures on our side," said V.K. Sharma, Deputy Inspector General of Police, Border Security Force (BSF), Abohar border.

Citing security considerations, India has suspended the main cross-border train and bus services until further notice, the Home Ministry said.

The cancelled trains are Delhi-Attari Link Express, Samjhauta Express, Munabao-Zero Point-Munabao Thar Express and Jodhpur-Munabao-Jodhpur Link Express.

The Delhi-Lahore Samjhauta Express was the target of a bomb attack in February.

India often puts its forces on alert in response to crisis in Pakistan. It did so in November when President Pervez Musharraf declared a state of emergency. (ANI)
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Indore, Dec 29 (ANI): An Indian relative of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto has released her marriage video in Indore.

Sainita Khan told Asian News International (ANI) that she attended Bhutto's wedding on December 18, 1987.

"Fortunately, I got the opportunity to attend the wedding. I saw a large gathering of people from across the world attending the marriage. Benazir allowed the entry of the common man to the wedding. Being there, I realised what a royal wedding is like. The atmosphere was really good. There were different cuisines lined up, different stages were set up where different singers were performing," Khan said.

Bhutto married Asif Ali Zardari in Karachi. The couple have three children: Bilawal, Bakhtwar, and Aseefa.

Born on June 21, 1953, Bhutto was the first woman Prime Minister elected to lead a post-colonial Muslim state.

She was the eldest child of former premier Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, a Pakistani of Sindhi extraction, and Begum Nusrat Bhutto, a Pakistani of Iranian-Kurdish extraction.

Her paternal grandfather was Sir Shah Nawaz Bhutto who came to Larkana Sindh before partition from his native town of Bhatto Kalan in Haryana. (ANI)

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Shimla, Dec 29 (ANI): The newly-elected BJP MLAs in Himachal Pradesh will meet here today, and is expected to formally elect Prem Kumar Dhumal as their leader.

Party's chief-ministerial candidate Dhumal is later expected to meet State Governor VS Kokje to stake claim for forming the next government in the state.

Dhumal won from Bamsan in Hamirpur district, defeating Congress candidate Col (R) BC Lagwal by 26,000 votes.

Dhumal, who is likely to take the oath of office on Sunday, will become state's chief minister for the second time.

After winning nearly two-third seats in Gujarat earlier this week, the BJP scored a comfortable victory yesterday in Himachal Pradesh, bagging 41 seats in the 68-member Assembly.

The party has returned to power in the state after a gap of five years. This was its best performance in the state, with having increased its vote share by nearly 12 per cent.

On the other hand, the Congress won 23 seats and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) won one seat. Independents bagged the remaining three seats.

Buoyed by the results in the two states, BJP leaders warned that it showed that the Congress was bound to lose Lok Sabha elections in 2009. But, the Congress downplayed its defeat in Himachal Pradesh, citing "anti-incumbency" as the single largest factor that went against it.

Incumbent Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh retained Rohru in Shimla District winning by a margin of 14,000 votes.

The term of the 68-member State Assembly is to end on March 9, 2008. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec 29 (ANI): Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi, who conquered Gujarat for the second time earlier this month, is expected to meet his senior party leaders Atal Bihari Vajpayee, LK Advani, party president Rajnath Singh, besides Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh later in the day.

This will be Modi's first visit to the Capital after being sworn-in as the Chief Minister for the third time on December 25. He is yet to announce his new cabinet.

The BJP had registered a thumping victory by winning 117 seats, ten less than its 2002 figure. The Congress, on the other hand, could manage just 59 seats.

He won his Maninagar seat by defeating Congress' candidate and Union Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Dinshaw Patel by 87,000 votes.

Modi became Gujarat's Chief Minister for the first time in October 2001, after being promoted to that office when his predecessor Keshubhai Patel resigned following the defeat of the BJP in local body elections.

Then, he registered a convincing victory in the 2002 Assembly election, winning 126 seats in the 182-member Assembly. (ANI)
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Bhubaneswar, Dec 28 (ANI): Orissa's Khandamal District continued to remain tense for the fifth consecutive day with stray incidents of violence taking place on Friday.

At least three people have reportedly been killed in the police firing, when the latter tried to control the situation that went out of control due to clashes between Hindus and Christians. While officials have admitted that firing took place, the killings have not been confirmed.

Centre has sent more troops to communal violence-hit area and curfew continued in most of the places.

The Christian dominated Brahmanigaon village, about 200 km from the state capital, Bhubaneswar, continued to be the main trouble area, police said.

The worst hit areas were Brahmanigaon, Barkhama and Nuagaon areas in the district.

Residents in violence-hit areas of Khandamal District are living in constant fear.

"We are scared and fear that we might be attacked again. Restrictions have been imposed on us. The government should take some measures to restore peace. We are not feeling secure at all," said Kailas Diggal, a resident of Bujulimundi Village.

The government today decided to order a judicial inquiry into the incident of communal violence.

Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who visited the riot-torn area on Thursday to take stock of the situation, said government would soon name a judge for conducting the probe.

Meanwhile, Orissa Steel and Mines Minister Padmanabha Behera resigned owning "moral responsibility" for the communal violence.

Over a dozen churches and prayer houses in Khandamal District have been torched since Hindus and Christians clashed over Christmas celebrations on December 24.

The violence was sparked off on Monday when Vishwa Hindu Parishad activists led mobs burnt down churches. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec 28 (ANI): The leaders of the major political parties here in India have condoled the death of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.

"Leaders of the major Indian political parties, meeting at the residence of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, unanimously condoled the tragic death of Benazir," Sanjaya Baru, media advisor to the Prime Minister told reporters here.

"They strongly condemned the brutal assassination and expressed their resolve to defeat the forces of terrorism in the region,"

Baru further said that hailing Benazir as an "outstanding leader of South Asia" and the voice of moderation and democracy in Pakistan, the leaders "conveyed their heartfelt sympathies to the members of the family and the people of Pakistan."

Benazir was assassinated in Rawalpindi on Thursday and was buried today in Larkana in Sindh. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec 28 (ANI): Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) prime ministerial candidate Lal Krishna Advani today said that that after winning Gujarat and Himachal Pradesh Assembly polls, the BJP is eyeing power at the Centre

"I am sure that the process of change that has begun will reach national politics. What has begun in 2007, will go ahead"  Advani told reporters here.

"The process of change has begun this year and this change is in favour of the BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party). But there was change in government in UP (Uttar Pradesh) also. The only satisfaction for the Congress party is Goa," he added.

BJP swept state polls in Himachal Pradesh by winning 41 of the 68 seats in the State Assembly. The Congress Party could manage only 20 compared to its previous tally of 43 seats.

This victory comes within five days of a comfortable BJP victory in Gujarat where the party had formed the government after winning 117 seats. (ANI)
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Srinagar, Dec 28 (ANI): Hundreds of people in Srinagar today mourned and protested against the assassination of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. 

Benazir, 54, was shot dead in a sniper cum suicide bomb attack in Rawalpindi on Thursday.

Protesters turned violent and pelted stones on security forces. The forces had to use teargas bullets to disperse the violent protestors. Security personnel, including media persons were injured in the incident.

The protesters were shouting slogans of 'Pakistan Zindabad' and 'Benazir Zindabad'.

Hardline Kashmiri separatist leader, Syed Ali Shah Geelani had called for a daylong shutdown in the valley. 

Meanwhile, the dead body of Benazir was laid to rest in her family graveyard in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh this afternoon.

Benazir's relatives, friends, party leaders, workers were among the hundreds of thousands of people who were present during the burial ceremony.

Before her assassination, Benazir had addressed an election rally in Rawalpindi. At least 30 other people reportedly died in the attack and several more were injured.

Benazir, who was campaigning for the January 8 elections, had twice been the country's Prime Minister, in 1988 for 20 months and again between 1993 and 1996.

Her killing is likely to provoke an agonised response from her followers, especially from her loyal following in Sindh Province.

She was key to her party's political fortunes, as she was seen as a major political player in the forthcoming elections. The PPP has the largest support base in the country.

Rawalpindi, a garrison city, is seen as one of the country's most secure cities, making the attack on Benazir even more embarrassing for President Pervez Musharraf and the military authorities.

Benazir had returned from self-imposed exile on October 18 after nine years out of Pakistan where she had faced corruption charges. On the day of her return, she led a motor cavalcade through Karachi. It was hit by a double suicide attack that left over 140 people dead. (ANI)
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Gwalior, Dec.28 (ANI): Disappointed with the closure of the only sugar mill in their district and non-payment of their dues, many sugarcane farmers in Gwalior have taken to jaggery production.

They were compelled to sell off their yield at throw away rates to local crushers or survive on jaggery production.

Dabra Gwalior Sugar mill, located in Dabra Tehsil (sub division) of Madhya Pradesh, was the main purchaser of sugarcane grown in the region. But it was closed following financial losses and non-payment of rupees 100 million as arrears of the local farmers. 

According to the President of the Sugarcane Production Cooperative Committee in Gwalior, despite constant requests by farmers, the local administration has done nothing to resolve the long pending matter. 

"Our payments are due with this factory but the administration is doing nothing. The sugar factory has to pay farmers rupees seven crores (rupees 70 million) for this year's sugarcane supply. Payments are due since 2003. The factory is under a debt of around rupees rupees 10 crore (rupees 100 million)," said Ram Kishore, President Sugarcane Production Cooperative Committee of Gwalior.

Dabra region is known for its sugarcane production and at least 70 per cent farmers survive on this crop here. In the absence of a sugar mill, farmers are compelled to sell their sugarcane to local crushers; at unreasonably low rates, Ram Kishore added.

Many of these sugarcane farmers have now set up crushers to produce jaggery.

On each quintal, these crusher owners earn mere between rupees five to 20 as net profit, depending on the quality of jaggery. In the past three years, the number of crushers in Dabra has grown to 400.

"We are benefited by crushers. At one quintal jaggery, we save around 15/20 rupees. Many crushers are coming up in this area. Here, around 400 crushers are flourishing in this area. As the factory is shut down, farmers are selling their sugarcane at low rates to crusher owners," said Narendra Rawat, one of the sugarcane farmers-cum-crusher owners.

"The existing market rate of jaggery is rupees 800 per quintal. Crusher owners are buying sugarcane at a rate of rupees 55 or 60. On every quintal we earn around Rs 5 quintal," said Sunil Kumar, a jaggery maker. 

Many well-off farmers too have set up their own crushers. But the marginal sugarcane farmers are not in a position to spend even a few thousand rupees to get into the business of jaggery making, said a farmer. 

Some farmers in Dabra are on an indefinite sit on to protest the ignorant attitude of the local administration and sugar mill owners here. They are demanding government help as they are a cottage industry. (ANI)
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Shimla/New Delhi, Dec 28 (ANI): After winning nearly two-third majority in Gujarat earlier this week, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Friday made a clean sweep in the Himachal Pradesh registering victories in 41-seats in the 68-member Assembly.

The saffron party has returned to power in the state after a gap of five years. This was the saffron party's best performance in the state, and has increased its vote share by nearly 12 per cent.

The BJP has comfortably unseated the ruling Congress, which finished with just 23 seats.

The Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) has won one constituency. Independents have bagged three seats.

BJP leaders warned that the results in the two states showed that the Congress was bound to lose Lok Sabha elections in 2009.

BJP General Secretary Sushma Swaraj in New Delhi said the victories in Himachal Pradesh and Gujarat "are trailers of the Lok Sabha election."

BJP leader Rajiv Pratap Rudy said, Himachal Pradesh would fuel the party's resurgence at the national level.

Party president Rajnath Singh in New Delhi said: "I feel that the people of the nation believe that BJP is the only party that can do good to the nation. There are some issues like inflation, peace and other such things that we have addressed and hence have achieved success."

The Congress downplayed its defeat in Himachal Pradesh, citing 'anti-incumbency' as the single largest factor that went against it.

The Congress said that it has accepted the result in Himachal Pradesh and there was no link in its defeat in the hill state with Gujarat election results.

"In democracy, changes do take place and we have to humbly accept the verdict of the people," senior party leader and Minister of State for External Affairs Anand Sharma said, adding that there was no communal polarisation in the hill state which was witnessed in the western state.

Incumbent Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh retained Rohru in Shimla District winning by a margin of 14,000 votes.

BJP's chief-ministerial candidate P K Dhumal won by 26,000 votes from Bamsan in Hamirpur District.

Dhumal is likely to take the oath of office on Sunday. He will become the chief minister of the state for the second time.

Dhumal said increasing prices of essential commodities, unemployment and corruption contributed to the voters going against the Congress party.

Counting of votes for all 68-assembly seats began early today morning.

The term of the 68-member State Assembly is till March 9, 2008. (ANI)
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Panaji, Dec 28 (ANI): Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Friday said that universities in the country are in need of a new wave of institutional reform.

Addressing at the convocation of the Goa University, Dr. Singh said, "The reform will enable them to augment existing talent. There has to be openness to lateral entry into teaching and research staff and a willingness to try new pedagogical methodologies and technologies to access teaching materials and databases."

Dr. Singh said that massive qualitative expansion of the educational system would put its infrastructure under stress, as there would be a shortage of good quality teachers.

"To address this problem our universities and educational institutions must adopt innovative methods to augment their physical infrastructure and their teaching and research capabilities," he added. 

He also said that his government is committed to achieve the Millennium Development Goal and added that the "Education Plan" in the XIth Five-Year Plan places the highest priority on education as an instrument for achieving rapid and inclusive growth.

"It presents a comprehensive strategy for strengthening the education sector covering all segments of the education pyramid," he added.

Stating that the challenge lies in empowering every citizen with access to education and skill building, Dr. Singh said, "I would like to see our farmers, our workers, our artisans and everyone of our working people equipped with modern education and the capabilities required to earn a decent living."

"We have increased the outlay on education from 7.7per cent of the total Central Gross Budgetary Support (GBS) in the 10th Plan to over 19 per cent in the 11th Plan. The actual outlays have been raised five-fold. This is an unprecedented increase in allocations for education in the history of our country. As I said from the Red Fort on Independence Day this year, I wish to see a new revolution in modern education in India," Dr. Singh added. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec 28 (ANI): Describing Bhutto's assassination as very unfortunate, Congress Party President Sonia Gandhi today said it has killed the very essence of democracy that the country was trying to return to.

"The Indian National Congress (INC) expresses its deep sense of shock and grief at the brutal assassination of Pakistan's former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. Her assassination is yet another grave challenge posed by the forces of terror and violence," said Gandhi on the sidelines of the Congress foundation day function here.

"This reprehensible and cowardly act which has brutally cut short a life full of promise and potential deserves to be strongly condemned by civilized society," Gandhi added.

The Congress Working Committee (CWC) also adopted a resolution expressing "shock and grief" at it.

The CWC expressed its heartfelt condolences to Bhutto's family, the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) and the people of Pakistan.

"To lose such a popular and charismatic leader, especially at this critical juncture, is a tragedy for the people of Pakistan," stated the resolution. 

Paying tributes to the slain leader, Sonia Gandhi said the death is equally a loss for the entire region of South Asia.

"Bhutto did not hesitate to risk her life in pursuing this objective with courage, commitment and dedication," it said, adding her "supreme sacrifice to the cause of democracy in Pakistan will continue to be a source of inspiration to those who have firm faith in the spirit of democracy."

Bhutto had served her country with "courage and distinction knowing fully well the risk involved in the task of restoring a democratic process" in Pakistan. (ANI)
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Shimla, Dec 28 (ANI): The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is heading for an impressive victory in Himachal Pradesh. 

According to the trends available, the BJP is leading in 40 seats, Congress in 24 and others in 4.

Incumbent Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh retained Rohru in Shimla district winning by a margin of 14,000 votes. Independents got one seat and were leading in three.

BJP's chief-ministerial candidate P K Dhumal won by 26,000 votes from Bamsan in Hamirpur district.

The BJP victories included Solan, Kotkehloor, Kinnaur, Gagret, Bilaspur, Lahaul and Spiti, Ani, Palampur and Karsog and Geharwin and Hamirpur.

Meanwhile, party president Rajnath Singh in New Delhi said, "I feel that the people of the nation believe that BJP is the only party that can do good to the nation. There are some issues like inflation, peace and other such things that we have addressed and hence have achieved success."

The Congress wins included Satokgarh, Nahan, Baijnath and Kasumta.

Counting of votes for all 68-assembly seats began early today morning.

The term of the 68-member State Assembly is till March 9, 2008. (ANI)
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Amritsar Dec.28 (ANI): Sikh leaders from around the world have condemned the assassination of former Pakistan Prime Minister and opposition leader Benazir Bhutto in a suicide attack on Thursday.

Dr. Pritpal Singh, Convener of the American Gurdwara Parbhandhak Committee (AGPC), said the assassination must be condemned in the strongest possible terms, and called for democracy to restored in Pakistan at the earliest.

Expressing his sadness over Bhutto's "tragic death", Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbhandhak Committee (PSGPC) chief, Bishen Singh, said that this was a great loss for Pakistan who has lost their one of the most favored leader."Lek insane ka katal sari insaniyat ka katal hain" (This should not be seen as the murder of one individual, but the murder of humanity), said he.

He urged President Musharraf to call an all-party meeting to lay down a strong plan to fight terrorism.

Avtar Singh Makkar, the president of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbhandhak Committee (SGPC), expressed his condolences. He said that she has given her sacrifice for the restoration of democracy in Pakistan. He said: "I extend my condolences to the family of Benazir Bhutto, the Pakistani people".

Manmohan Singh, the chairman of the World Muslim Sikh Federation, said Benazir's death is a tragedy for "the entire world". He described her as a woman of immense courage who supported democracy. He appealed to President Musharraf to step up efforts to establish peace in the region.

Washington based Sikh leader Dr. Amarjit Singh said that violence anywhere is regrettable. Karan Singh, a spokesperson for the Sikh Foundation of Switzerland said that even though she knew that she was risking her life by returning to Pakistan, Bhutto dared to do so as she was keen about the restoration of democracy in that country. (ANI)
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New Delhi/Srinagar, Dec 28 (ANI): People in India have reacted strongly to the assassination of former Prime Minister of Pakistan Benazir Bhutto.

"What has taken place in Pakistan is very sad. Every time Pakistan tries to return back to normalcy, something of this sort takes place. Indian democracy has matured but Pakistan still needs to learn a lot. I feel the military rule out there is responsible for whatever is taking place," said Mulziyaz Faxiliyat, a resident.

Describing the assassination as very unfortunate event, the people said it has killed the very essence of democracy that the country was trying to return back to.

Another resident, Javed added, "They have killed the very essence of democracy. It is a great loss to the entire nation. I feel President Pervez should resign."

Meanwhile, the Chairman of the hardline faction of the All Parties Hurriyat Conference, Syed Ali Shah Geelani has called for a day-long shutdown reacting to the violence in Pakistan following the   assassination of Bhutto.

"It is a very sad thing. We Kashmiris are with them in this time. Geelani has called for a strike in the entire state," said Ikhtiyaar, a resident.

The people in Kashmir Valley feel that they should express their anger in the wake of the events taking place in the neighbouring nation.

"She was a very good person. I feel we, the common people, should showcase our anger," said Ahmed, another resident.

Bhutto was addressing a rally in Rawalpindi's Liaquat Bagh area and as she stood up to wave to her supporters from the sunroof of her jeep, the attacker fired at her.

People across the world are stunned by the death of the leader, which is a reminder of a similar event in India, 16 years ago when a suicide bomber killed former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi at Sriperumbudur in Tamil Nadu in 1991. Gandhi was also campaigning for general elections at the time of his assassination.

The assassination of Bhutto came 12 days before an election, which she had hoped to win. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec 28 (ANI): The Communist Party of India (CPI) today expressed shock over the dastardly assassination of Pakistan former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, saying it is a serious set back to the ongoing process of revival of democracy in Pakistan.

"It shows that how far the terrorist outfits have penetrated in Pakistan. It posed a serious threat for the entire region," the release said.

The CPI also expressed its heart felt condolences to Bhutto's family, the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) and the people of Pakistan.

"It hopes that the people of Pakistan will overcome the crisis and continues their struggle for restoration of democracy," the release stated.

Bhutto was assassinated on Thursday during a party rally in Rawalpindi's Liaquat Bagh area. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec.28 (ANI): D K Sarraf has joined as the new Director (Finance) of ONGC.

Sarraf was selected by the Public Enterprise Selection Board some time ago. The position of Director (Finance) of ONGC had fallen vacant after R S Sharma was elevated from Director (Finance) to CMD in May 2006.

Sarraf, 50, is a commerce graduate from Shri Ram College of Commerce, Delhi University and Post graduate in Commerce from the same University. He is an associate member of the Institute of Cost and Works Accountants of India (ICWAI) and Institute of Company Secretaries of India (ICSI). He joined as an Executive Trainee in a well known private sector group in 1976 after graduation and worked there till 1982.

Sarraf has a rich experience of around 25 years in various facets of the oil industry - first in Oil India Limited (1983-1991) and then in Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (1991 onwards). He also gained holistic exposure to national oil industry while working in the Oil Coordination Committee on deputation for three years (1997-2000).

He was the Chief, Commercial of ONGC during 2003 and 2004 and in February 2005 took over as Director (Finance) of ONGC Videsh Limited (OVL), a fast growing 100 percent subsidiary of ONGC; one of the biggest Indian MNCs with operations in 16 countries, the only Indian company producing hydrocarbons abroad and the second biggest Indian E and P company.

Sarraf has been instrumental in several oil and gas acquisitions in OVL during the last three years.

He was also involved in conversion of the erstwhile Oil and Natural Gas Commission to a Company, including financial restructuring and valuation of ONGC and disinvestment of Government shareholding in ONGC in 1994. He was the coordinator in ONGC for Government offering of ONGC's 10 percent equity to public which was very well received by the market and is till date one of the single largest public offerings in India. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec 28 (ANI): The Cabinet Committee on Security will meet here this evening to review the situation emanating from Thursday's assassination of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.

According to official sources, the meeting will be held on Friday evening after Prime Minster Dr. Manmohan Singh returns from Goa.

Meanwhile, the Centre has issued an alert to all States for maintaining a tight vigil, especially along the Indo-Pak border.

The Border Security Force (BSF) has been asked to remain vigilant, a Home Ministry spokesperson said.

The advisory has been termed as a precautionary measure to prevent any untoward incident.

In Gujarat, additional vigil is being maintained along the land as well as sea border with Pakistan.

The BSF has intensified night patrolling alongwith the land border with Kutch district, and the Coast Guard is keeping a close watch over the international boundary line in the Gulf of Kutch.

The Pakistan People's Party (PPP) Chairperson, Bhutto, 54, was assassinated on Thursday evening during a party rally in Rawalpindi's Liaquat Bagh area. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec 28 (ANI): Social activists here have joined Christians as they seek Central intervention to bring peace in violence-hit Orissa.

Holding candlelight and displaying placards on Thursday, the protesters sang songs for peace and demanded that culprits be brought to book.

"Our demand is peace in Orissa, Catch the culprits, whoever it is, which ever religion it is. Restore peace immediately. That is our serious demand," said John Dayal, President of All India Christian Council.

Tension prevailed in Orissa's Khandamal District after a mob torched 11 churches and burnt down the house of a Rajya Sabha MP.

Suspected saffron activists were involved in the incident, witnesses and police claimed.

The house of Rajya Sabha MP Radhakant Nayak, a Christian, was torched in the Kandhamal District.

Curfew continued on Thursday in four towns of the district following the killing of a youth and the ransacking of churches.

Paramilitary troops marched through riot-hit areas to prevent untoward incidents.

Though a peace committee has been formed, many Christian families are said to be fleeing their homes.

Chief Minister Naveen Pattnaik has reviewed the situation and claimed that steps are being taken to restore normalcy in Kandhamal District.

The Centre has asked the State Government to provide it with a detailed report. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec 28 (ANI): The assassination of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto was a tragedy and a terrible blow to the democratic process according to Indian dailies.

The Hindu has quoted some analysts as saying that the assassination will spell the end of the tentative movements towards democracy witnessed in recent months. While such outcome will suit the military establishment as well as the Islamists, it will have dangerously destabilising consequences, it added.

The Hindustan Times in a single point described the murder of Bhutto as "Pakistan has fallen off the edge". 

It seems impossible now for elections to go ahead in the foreseeable future not least because of one contender being horrifically taken out of the contest, but also because elections are the farthest thing from the mind of the people, the paper claimed.

The Times of India said that the assassination of Bhutto is an enormous tragedy not just for Pakistan, but also for all of South Asia. Now, the world needs to be extremely anxious about the state of Pakistan.

According to The Pioneer, the death of the Pakistan People's Party leader threw the campaign for the January 8 election into chaos and stirred fears of mass protests and a wave of violence.

Similarly terming the assassination of Bhutto as a "murder of democracy", The Tribune quoted, "The attack on a rally addressed by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif in Rawalpindi on the same day shows that the enemies of democracy are out to disrupt the January elections.

It went on to say that enemies of democracy in Pakistan want to create political instability in the country. It is doubtful whether the Musharraf regime has the will or the ability to bring the extremist forces - whether religious or political - under control."

The Asian Age said that Bhutto was a natural democrat and termed her loss as "a hope is lost."

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh said that her death "is a reminder of the common dangers that our region faces from cowardly acts of terrorism."

"In her death, the sub continent has lost an outstanding leader who worked for democracy and reconciliation in her country," Dr. Singh added.

External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee said that Bhutto was a brave and outstanding woman leader of the sub-continent.

"That she should fall to a barbarous terrorist attack is particularly tragic, and should strengthen our resolve to fight this scourge," he added. (ANI)
 
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Shimla, Dec 28 (ANI): Counting of votes for the two-phased Himachal Pradesh Assembly elections has begun this morning, amidst tight security.

The results will decide the fate of 336 candidates including 25 women, who are in the fray for 68 assembly seats in the state. 

Important leaders whose fate will be unveiled today include Chief Minister Virbhadra singh from Rohru constituency, BJP's Chief Ministerial nominee Prem Kumar Dhumal from Bamson, Speaker G R Mussafir (Pacchad), Ministers Vidya stokes (Kumarsain), Kaul Singh Thakur (Drang) and Raj Kishan Guar (Kullu).

The final phase of polling was held on December 19. Around 67 percent of electorate exercised their franchise in the 65 constituencies.

In Kangra district, 65 per cent of electorate voted for 16 seats that are said to be crucial for both the Congress and the BJP. During 2003 Assembly polls, the Congress won 11 out of 16.

Jubalkhote Assembly Constituency registered highest turnout of 72.88 percent and the lowest was recorded in the state capital (55.42 percent).

In Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh's Rohru constituency, about 65 per cent of voters cast their votes.

The first phase of polling took place for the three seats of Bharmaur, Lahaul and Spiti and Kinnaur on November 14. Over 68 per cent polling was reported in this phase.

This time, the Congress and the BJP is facing tough competition from the BSP. Besides these three major parties, candidates include nominees from the LJP and one independent. Twelve candidates are in the fray in these three constituencies.

The term of the 68-member State Assembly is till March 9, 2008. (ANI)
 
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New Delhi, Dec 27 (ANI): Expressing shock and grief over the assassination of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, senior Bharatiya Janata Party leader L K Advani today said that the kind of Talibanisation of Pakistan is taking place is a threat to Indian security also.

The death of Bhutto, a "tall leader", has come as a shock, Advani said, adding that she had fallen victim to a terrorist attack.

"The tall leader, who has been struggling for years to see the restoration of democracy in Pakistan, has fallen victim to a terrorist attack," he said.

"I have a feeling that the kind of Talibanisation of Pakistan is taking place, it is a threat to India security also," he said.

Meanwhile, former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee expressed shock and grief over Bhutto's untimely death.

Pakistan People's Party (PPP) Chairperson Bhutto, 54, was assassinated on Thursday during a party rally in Rawalpindi's Liaquat Bagh area. She was shot at point blank range by two attackers in the head and the neck. The attack was immediately followed by a suicide bomb attack that claimed the lives of 20 other people. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec 27 (ANI): UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi on Thursday expressed grief over the assassination of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto and said that her life's unrealised potential has been brutally cut short.

"For the people of Pakistan, it is a great tragedy to lose a popular and charismatic leader at this critical juncture, She said, adding, "Her assassination is a painful reminder of the grave threat posed by the forces of violence and terror to the civilized world."

"My heart goes out to her loving children and family, her friends, and followers in their moment of grief," she said and added: "I wish them all strength and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss." (ANI)
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New Delhi/Rawalpindi, Dec.27 (ANI): Thursday afternoon's assassination of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto in Rawalpindi's Liaquat Bagh area can be compared in terms of fate to what former Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi suffered.

Both were children of former Prime Ministers i.e. Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Indira Gandhi. Both came from prominent political dynasties in their respective countries, and were given the best in terms of education.

While Bhutto went to Oxford and Harvard, Rajiv Gandhi was sent for his higher studies to the Imperial College London, the University of London, and Cambridge University's Trinity College.

Both became Prime Ministers after the assassinations of their parents. Both won massive mandates from the people of their respective countries.

Both suffered similar fates while campaigning for elections. Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated on May 21, 1991 in Sriperumbedur, Tamil Nadu, by a Sri Lankan female suicide bomber, when he was no longer a Prime Minister.

Benazir Bhutto was shot at point blank range by two attackers in the head and the neck after participating in a rally of her party. The attack was immediately followed by a suicide bomb attack that claimed the lives of 20 other people. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec 27 (ANI): Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh on Thursday expressed his shock and horror on the assassination of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, and said that her death "is a reminder of the common dangers that our region faces from cowardly acts of terrorism."

"Mrs. Bhutto was no ordinary political leader, but one who left a deep imprint on her time and age," Dr. Singh said.

Stating that her contributions to India-Pakistan relations and her intent to break the bilateral relations out of the sterile patterns of the past, as exemplary, Dr. Singh said, "In her death, the sub continent has lost an outstanding leader who worked for democracy and reconciliation in her country."

"My heartfelt condolences go to her family and the people of Pakistan who have suffered a grievous blow," he added.

External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee said that Bhutto was a brave and outstanding woman leader of the sub-continent.

"That she should fall to a barbarous terrorist attack is particularly tragic, and should strengthen our resolve to fight this scourge," he added. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec 27 (ANI): Minister of State for External Affairs Anand Sharma today said that the assassination of former Pakistan's Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto is a "blow to the democratic process" in that country.

He said that India is shocked and saddened over Bhutto's "untimely" and "violent" end to her promising political career.

"It happened at time when people in Pakistan were looking up to her," Sharma said, adding that she has a "huge" stature in her country.

He said there were no words to condemn the abominable attack.

He also expressed his condolences to the relatives and supporters of Benazir.

Pakistan People's Party (PPP) Chairperson Bhutto, 54, was assassinated on Thursday during a suicide attack on a party rally in Rawalpindi's Liaquat Bagh area. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec 27 (ANI): The news of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto's death has been received with shock in India with analysts expressing their concern about the 'turbulent situation there'.

Chairman of Asian News International, Prem Prakash who knew Bhutto personally and had interviewed her recently, said that in her death, Pakistan has lost its most secular face.

During a recent interview in London, Bhutto had said that there were dangers ahead, but she was ready to lead the struggle for restoration of democracy from the front, even though many of her followers advised her against it.

"She was fully aware of the dangers and did not underestimate the threat to her life. However, she was confident that with the support of the people of Pakistan, she would be able to face the dangers," Prakash said.

On the relations between India and Pakistan, Bhutto had said, "For the peace in the subcontinent, relations with India had to be improved."

Security analyst, Uday Bhaskar said that the assassination of Benazir Bhutto demonstrates that the government led by President Pervez Musharraf has not been able to provide security even though Benazir had asked for it.

Commenting on the separate attacks on rallies of Nawaz Sharif and Bhutto, Bhaskar said that doubts would be raised whether the lax security situation was a deliberate move and this has to be ascertained.

He said that Benazir was seen in India as a voice of moderation and was voicing the concerns of the liberal constituencies of Pakistan.

Bhutto, 54, was assassinated during a suicide attack on a party rally in Rawalpindi's Liaquat Bagh area ahead of the January 8 polls.

Initial reports said that Bhutto died while being taken to a hospital. At least 20 PPP activists were also killed in the suicide attack.

In her recent statements, Bhutto had criticised the extremists in Pakistan and had pledged to take tough action against the fundamentalists in the country, if she returns to power.

She was also critical of President Musharraf for not taking action against the spread religious fundamentalism in Pakistan.

Bhutto had survived a suicide blast recently when she returned to Karachi on October 18 ending eight years in exile in Dubai and London. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec 27 (ANI): Prime Minister Manmohan Singh presided over a high-level meeting here today to review the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir.

The meeting discussed various intelligence inputs about the law and order situation in the state, official sources said.

External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee, Union Home Minister Shivraj Patil, National Security Advisor M K Narayanan and Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad were also present at the meeting. (ANI)

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Amritsar, Dec.27 (ANI): History should promote secularism and democratic values, not hatred, said noted journalist Kuldeep Nayyar on Thursday.

Addressing the inaugural session of the 28th All India Persian teachers Conference here, Nayyar also lamented the lack of a common market between India and its neighbours in the Asian region.

"There should be one common market from Iran to Burma while keeping regional and national diversities. All borders should only be laqeers (lines).  India has good relations with Iran and Afghanistan. They are from one culture having similar way of living," said Nayyar.

The writing or rewriting of history should be assigned to an international commission and "we should strive for a new region full of democratic values and secular ethos," added Nayyar, a former Member of Parliament.

The event, which is being held at the Guru Nanak Bhawan of the Guru Nanak Dev University, was also attended by Ambassadors S.M. Nabi Zadeh of Iran and Sayed Makhdoom Raheen of Afghanistan, besides Jathedar Joginder Singh Vedanti of Akal Takht Sahib.

It has been jointly organised by the Department of Guru Nanak Studies of the University and the All India Persian Teachers Association.

Nayyar said Islam does not believe in the killing of innocent people, but believes in promoting peace at the global level, and the task before all was to promote the economic development of the Asian Continent. He also suggested that the political parties should not mix religion with politics to procure votes. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec 27 (ANI): Members of the Bihar Jagriti Manch, a Hindu organisation, took to the streets here today to protest against the making of animated films based on Hindu Gods, particularly Lord Hanuman.

The protestors shouted slogans against the censor board, the ruling Congress party and demanded action against those connected with the making of the cartoon film, "Hanuman Returns".

Anurag Kashyap is the director of the film.

"Hanuman Returns is in bad taste. We want the Central Government to ban all movies that project Gods and Goddesses as cartoons. We want that everyone connected with such movies should be taken to the court," said Robin Sharma, a protestor.

The protestors demanded that such movies should be banned.

Kashyap, the director of 'Black Friday' -- based on the 1993 Mumbai bombings -- and 'No Smoking', has made a foray into animation movies with the 'Return of Hanuman'.

Kashyap's "Return of Hanuman", which opens in theatres by this month-end, is a sequel to the popular animation film "Hanuman".

The film portrays Lord Hanuman's come back to earth to save people from the destructive forces of nature. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec.27 (ANI): India should invest more and invest it where it matters in Afghanistan to strengthen its presence and influence in a country which is struggling valiantly to initiate a process of nation-building against extreme odds.

This was one of the conclusions of a round-table discussion on the Current Situation in Afghanistan, organised by Observer Research Foundation here today.

The meeting was addressed by some of the well-known experts on the subject and was chaired by Vikram Sood, vice president, ORF Centre for International Affairs and former Secretary, Research and Analysis Wing.

The discussion primarily focused on the flawed state building process in Afghanistan. The speakers pointed out two sets of influences working in the country-one   was international with multiple agendas, not often complimentary and another was national, specially the phenomenon of the Taliban and its growth largely influenced by fractured political process, poor governance in large parts of the country, alienated population and flourishing opinion industry.

The key factor in today's Afghanistan is the relevance and influence of the State, or the lack of it.   The State could have strengthened if it had delivered governance, security, elementary justice and a feeling of inclusiveness to the people. The fact that the Taliban, and violence, has only grown in the past five years is an indication of the State's failure to deliver to the people some very basic requirements of belonging.

The basic flaw was in the way the State was being projected and constructed. The development of three pillars of governance-administration, judiciary and police-is an apt illustration. Although the elections were held and were enthusiastically endorsed by the people, there was no guide map for the political institutions like the parliament or the local councils to function. Although the parliament was supposedly represented the will of the people, the executive refused to respect its directions. The provincial and local councils were filled up with friends, associates and relatives, creating an informal structure which has only become stronger in the past five years.

A police chief, for instance, of  a particular district is appointed from outside and he brings his own tribesmen to guard him and help him police the area which has people from a different tribe or a sub-tribe. The result is people view the police force with suspicion and hatred as policemen are hardly honest and are involved in opium trading and other criminal activities. Informal taxation is quite high. There are quite a few, said a speaker, who acted as policemen in the daytime and changed into the Taliban in the night. The police are considered more of a problem.

In any case, the police force has been structured more as a counter-insurgency force rather than one tasked to take care of law and order. The force components are rooted in the tribal militia and are hardly trained---two weeks training---to become a professional group. The force is also afflicted with `ghosts` --at least 60 per cent of the 70,000-strong force remain confined to the books. The force is also riddled with a high attrition rate, caused by absence of regular and sufficient income, threats from the Taliban and plain homesickness.

The Afghan National Army was slightly better. Not long ago, there were 200,000 enlisted men and some 2500 Generals in the army which operated more like a tribal militia than a professional force. Things have improved since then. Although attempts have been made by the Ministry of Defence to reform the Army, there are quite a few problems   which have not been confronted. Although the Army, modeled on a light infantry unit,  has a strength of 43000, only 20,000 of them are available to fight. The tribal affinities also cause its share of problems. Half the men are Pashtuns while the officer cadre has 50 per cent Tajiks.

Speakers felt that it was very difficult to create a strong and influential officer cadre in such a short time especially when there was hardly any infrastructure to recruit and train such men. The officer corps in Afghan National Army  has no incentive take decisions and work directly under foreign `mentors`. They are seen more as a junior arm of the US Army rather than an independent military force.

The other military forces on the ground have their own set of problems. First there are fewer boots on the ground, about 55000 which is considerably less than what is deployed in Iraq. The other problem is duplicity of chain of command and second, the international forces are not in a position to clear, sweep and hold; it can do the first two but cannot hold a position for long, a situation which has helped the Taliban to increase its influence. (ANI)
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Bhubaneswar, Dec 27 (ANI): Tension prevailed in Orissa's Khandamal District after a mob torched 11 churches and burnt down the house of a Rajya Sabha MP.

Suspected saffron activists were involved in the incident, witnesses and police claimed.

The house of Rajya Sabha MP Radhakant Nayak, a Christian, was torched in the Kandhamal District.

According to Nayak, no state government force was in the area to prevent the attack.

This morning Orissa Home Secretary T K Mishra claimed the situation was reviewed and the situation was under control.

Violence was also reported from the Brahmnigaon area of Kandhamal District. A police station was damaged at Phiringia and churches were burnt at many other places, including Kalinga and Tikabali.

Besides Kandhamal district, reports of arson also came from Khajuripada.

Most of these places are remote and inaccessible to security forces, trees have been cut to form road blocks.

There have been reports of an attempt by a mob to burn one person alive at Adaba police station. He reportedly sustained 50 per cent burn injuries and has been admitted to the Berhampur Hospital.

Eleven people have been injured since Wednesday night.

Curfew continued on Thursday in four towns of the district following the killing of a youth and the ransacking of churches.

Paramilitary troops marched through riot-hit areas to prevent untoward incidents.

Though a peace committee has been formed, many Christian families are said to be fleeing their homes.

Chief Minister Naveen Pattnaik has reviewed the situation and claimed that steps are being taken to restore normalcy in Kandhamal District.

The Centre has asked the State Government to provide it with a detailed report. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec 27 (ANI): The induction of one squadron of Akash surface-to-air missiles by the Indian Air Force will come as a major relief for the air defence system planners in the country after the rupees 1800-crore deal with Israel for procuring Spyder missile system came to a naught.

The one squadron, numbering 18 batteries of the indigenously developed 30-km range missile, will help in filling the gap due to the delay in the procurement of the Israeli missile after Indian Defence Ministry asked the Central Vigilance Commission to probe into the deal citing reported irregularities.

Indian armed forces opted for Israeli Spyder missiles, as there was delay in the Akash missile programme, which was set to improve the indigenously developed Trishul missile.

However, on December 21, the successful conclusion of Akash missile test firing at Chandipur-on -sea gave the Air Force and the Defence Research and Development Organisation a much-needed breakthrough as the IAF had earlier expressed its reservation over the performance of Akash missile system.

The missile is now ready for production in the country, the Defence Ministry officials stated just after the conclusion of the tests.

Development of Akash missile is a part of Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP), and the missile system was expected to be inducted by the Indian Army and the Air Force by 2003.

Four stages of tests were carried out to evaluate the missile this year. First of these were the validation and functional evaluation tests of the entire weapon system which were carried out in Kolar near Bangalore.

This was followed by operation and mobility trials in Pokhran ranges in the second week of November and the Electronic Counter- Counter- Measure (ECCM) evaluation tests at Gwalior by Indian Air Force against various types of electronic targets and counter measures.

The final phase of user evaluation as part of user trials was done in Chandipur Integrated Test Range facility near Balasore in Orissa.

As on July 31, 2007, an amount of Rs. 492.41 crore (5 billion approximately) has already been spent on development of Akash, which has a launch weight of 720 kg, a diameter of 35 cm and a length of 5.8 metres.

It can fly at supersonic speed of around 2.5 Mach and can reach an altitude of 18 kms.

The missile is supported by multi-target and multi-function phased array fire control radar called 'Rajendra' that has a range of about 60 km.

The first test flight of the missile was conducted in 1990, and since then many development and field trials have taken place. (ANI)
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Vijayawada (Andhra Pradesh), Dec 27 (ANI): Two children in Vijayawada astonished everyone here recently by setting new swimming records for their age in the Krishna River that is 1.5 kilometres in width.

Navasakti swam across the Krishna River to and fro, whereas L.S.Mukesh performed the feat twice during a swimming competition organised by the Krishna District Amateur Aquatic Association here.

About 34 children participated in the competition.

"Mukesh's age is about five years and one month and Shakti's age is about three years and seven months. The earlier record is in the name of Jyoti Surekha set in 2002. She swam about four-and-a-half kilometres at the age of four years and eleven months," said Madhu Kumar, the duo's swimming coach.
   
Navasakti achieved the feat covering three kilometres in three hours time whereas L.S.Mukesh took four hours and one minute's time to cover six kilometres length in the river.

Both the children come from Tirupati of Chittur District.

Navasakti's is the youngest child to have performed this feat. In 2002, four-year old Jyothi Surekha entered the Limca Book of Records when she swam across the river three times.

The children's swimming coach has advocated the names of these kids for Limca Book of Records. (ANI)

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New Delhi, Dec 27 (ANI): Indians and Afghanis here are bonding over food as they savour authentic Afghani cuisine at a specialty restaurant.

Located in South Delhi's Lajpat Nagar area, the 'Afghan Restaurant' is thronged by foodies in large numbers.

Set up in 2004, by an Afghani national, who migrated to India in a bid to earn his living, the restaurant has carved a niche for itself as both Indians and Afghanis frequent the place.

Afghanis visit the place to savour the authentic cuisine from their homeland while Indians come here to relish the delicacies of another country.

"Afghanis come here because of the authentic cuisine that we serve whereas for Indians, the place holds interest as they find the food different and really like it a lot. We don't make use of many spices, but, the cooking style is different. Maybe that's the reason they come here," said Idrish Hussain, Manager of the Restaurant.

Done up in traditional classic Afghani décor, the restaurant, apart from attracting Indians, also provides the Afghani immigrants with an opportunity to bond with the fellow countrymen, providing them with a home away from home.

"Food is available at several places, but what brings me to this place is cuisine from my own country. Whenever, I return to Afghanistan I will tell my friends and relatives about this place. The other main reason for coming here is the use of Afghani language which binds us together," said Ibrahim, a visitor.

Hospitality is very integral to the Afghan code of honour and the tradition is maintained in the restaurant as well.

Afghans traditionally squat on the floor for their meals sitting around large colourful cushions, called toshak. At the restaurant, a special floor for dining has been created to make visitors get a feel of the original and to make them feel at home.

Along with the food, the restaurant provides visitors an opportunity to discuss the latest events in Afghanistan.

At the eatery, the Afghans share business and views on the situation back home.

They are working hard to be financially strong and contribute to the economy of Afghanistan.  (ANI)
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Gulmarg, Dec 27 (ANI): Snowman competition, held as a part of the Kashmir snow festival, enticed tourists in picturesque snow-capped Gulmarg.

Apart from snowman competition, snow games like Ice-skating, snow rugby, snow cycling and other cultural events were the highlights of the festival.

Organised with the initiative of the state Tourism Department, the snow festival in the Gulmarg winter resort overlapped with Christmas festivities.

"I am making a snowman with my family. I don't feel the cold also. I am really excited," said Gurmuriti, a tourist.

Arabhi, another tourist added, "It's really exciting. There are so many people here making snowman. I am joined with my family in this competition."

The festival started with Christmas Mass at the historic Saint Mary's Church with Santa Claus distributing sweets to children. The three-day festival concluded on December 26.

Gulmarg snow festival was started in 2003 to promote winter sports and tourism here.

It has the world's highest cable car project. The five-kilometer long cable car project in Gulmarg ends at 13,500 feet above sea level in Afarwat hills. (ANI)
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Ludhiana, Dec.27 (ANI): Having failed to rent a wedding horse for his brother's marriage that suits his prestige, a non-resident Indian recently bought him a mare as a wedding present!

On the wedding day, the bridegroom is supposed to come to the bride's place riding a mare in north India. He is accompanied by relatives and friends who come dancing all the way. 

Makhan Singh, who returned from New York to Punjab to get his younger brother married, bought him a mare of Arabian breed. The special gift cost him rupees two lakh.

"I just wanted a brand new horse and we are now training it for the big day. I bought it for rupees two lakhs (4,956 dollars)," said Makhan Singh Grewal, who has christened the two-and-a-half-year old mare as "Noori".

"My husband is very fond of these horses and on the occasion of the marriage of my younger brother-in-law. We thought of gifting him something unique and bought it. We have taken special care of the horse. We wish to keep the horse even after the wedding," said Parminder Kaur, wife of Makhan Singh.

The special gift cheered everyone in the family.

"I wanted to have something which nobody had. My wish has been fulfilled at last as I would be riding a brand new horse. I am thankful to my brother and happy that my brother's wishes and mine have been fulfilled," said Kewal Singh, the bridegroom to be.

The mare was said to have never been used for any wedding occasion. And, Kewal Singh said it would remain a memorable event in his life thinking how special gift he bought from his loved ones for his wedding day.

It is a wedding season and renting a horse for marriage is really difficult. (ANI)
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Indore, Dec.27 (ANI): Visiting Sirpur wetland near Indore can be a special joy for bird watchers these days, as a big number of migratory birds from Central Asian lands and Europe have made it their temporary home with the onset of winter.  

Thousands of birds, nestled on tree branches and in pond, creating various sounds with the chirping and flapping all around, is a view, perhaps, no bird lover would like to give a miss.

Migratory birds have turned the Sirpur wetland an ideal spot for families who flock here for holidaying. Visitors get an excellent opportunity to experience these migratory birds in their natural glory, in an environment conducive to birds' growth.

"Here we get a chance to see different types of birds...The birds that we didn't get to see easily, we can find them here on Sirpur pond. It looks beautiful. It gives a good feeling that there is a tourist place where we can go. If the birds keep coming here, the people will also make frequently visits to this place," said Shankarlal, a visitor.

These migratory birds from their traditional habitats like Afghanistan, Baluchistan, Sri Lanka, Maldeep, Eastern Europe and northern and central India use Sirpur wetland as their transitory camps during winter.

"We have never seen so many different and colourful birds. Every bird is of different variety. We don't see such variety of birds even in zoo," said Pooja Juneja, another visitor.    

Authorities related to the Sirpur wetland have ensured proper care for birds' food and their security as a perfect host.

"We have developed a fruit garden for the migratory birds under a plan on Sirpur wetland. At least 200 fruit trees have been grown here which include mango, blue berry, tamarind, pomegranate and almond trees," said Rajesh Jain, a worker at the Sirpur wetland.

Wooted warbler, open billed stork, black drongo, red stork, vague tale, green bee eater, northern pintel, cotton teal, three varieties of Kingfishers, white-crested, pride crested and common crested and a few migratory ducks are among the common birds sighted at this wetland. 

India is home to a large number of natural and man-made wetlands that host thousands of migratory birds during the winter season. It is because the freezing lakes and dipping temperatures in their native lands force them to fly southwards across the globe. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec.27 (ANI): When the English philosopher, Thomas Hobbes, wrote Leviathan in the seventeenth century, he changed the face of Western theorizing insofar as the definition and notion of state was concerned. He talked about "fear" as the basis of the existence of the state.

What does this fear mean in the modern context?

This was the topic of the first lecture series organized by the Indian Economy and Social History Review in New Delhi, which was addressed by the renowned historian and academician, Professor Carlo Ginzburg, the father of "micro history".

In the jam packed Stein Auditorium of the India Habitat Centre, intellectuals and academicians were left enthralled by Professor Ginzburg's discourse on  "Fear, Reverence, Terror: Reading Hobbes Today".

He avoided talking on terrorism, describing it as a "vague subject", but analyzed the roots of Hobbes's use of the idea of 'fear' as the basis for the creation of the state.

Hobbes, Ginzburg claimed was a erudite thinker with a deep knowledge of Greek and Roman history.

He said that "fear is the basis of the origin of religion and origin of state" and "fear and reverence converge" converge.

Commenting on happenings in the modern  world, Ginzburg said:" We live in a world where the state spreads terror, and it is a world where a huge leviathan squats and the future does not hold much as the way things are moving it would be a covenant of a wounded."

The globalized world presents a different context from the world that Hobbes saw and experienced in the seventeenth century. However Professor Ginzburg does not see any change in the "fear" factor that sustains authority.

Talking of the bombing of Baghdad by USA in 2003, he described it as "technological terror".

Professor Carlo Ginzburg is well known for brilliant and methodologically innovative explorations into mentalities, art history, literature and social history. He is among the pioneers and practitioners of the genre of micro-history. His The Cheese and the Worms (1980) is an acknowledged classic. His other writings available in English include The Night Battles (1983); The Enigma of Piero (2000); Clues, Myths and the Historical Method (1989); Ecstasies: Deciphering the Witches' Sabbath (1991); Wooden Eyes, (1998); The Judge and the Historian (1999); History, Rhetoric, and Proof (1999); and No Island is an Island (2000). He is emeritus professor at UCLA.

The lecture was organized by the  Indian Economic and Social History Review (IESHR), which was founded in 1963 by Professor Tapan Raychaudhuri of  the Delhi School of Economics. (ANI)
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Shimla, Dec 28 (ANI): Counting of votes for the two-phased Himachal Pradesh Assembly elections will take place tomorrow.

The results will decide the fate of contestants, including those from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Congress, the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) and the Lok Janshakti Party (LJP).

The final phase of polling was held on December 19. Around 67 percent of electorate exercised their franchise in the 65 constituencies.

In Kangra district, 65 per cent of electorate voted for 16 seats that are said to be crucial for both the Congress and the BJP. During 2003 Assembly polls, the Congress won 11 out of 16.

Jubalkhote Assembly Constituency registered highest turnout of 72.88 percent and the lowest was recorded in the state capital (55.42 percent).

In Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh's Rohru constituency, about 65 per cent of voters cast their votes.

Some of the major candidates who contested elections were Vijay Singh Mankotia and the BJP's chief ministerial candidate Prem Kumar Dhumal (Bamsan).

The first phase of polling took place for the three seats of Bharmaur, Lahaul and Spiti and Kinnaur on November 14. Over 68 per cent polling was reported in this phase.

This time, the Congress and the BJP is facing tough competition from the BSP. Besides these three major parties, candidates include nominees from the LJP and one independent. Twelve candidates are in the fray in these three constituencies.

The term of the 68-member State Assembly is till March 9, 2008. (ANI)
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Bhubaneswar, Dec27 (ANI): Curfew continued on Thursday in four towns of Orissa's Kandhamal District following the killing of a youth and the ransacking of churches.

Paramilitary troops today marched through riot-hit areas, which were relatively peaceful after clashes between the two communities since the Christmas eve.

Superintendent of Police Narasimha Bhol said except one or two minor incidents, the Kandhamal district by and large remained peaceful in the past 18 hours.

The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) will stage a flag march in the other affected areas of the district.

Meanwhile, the district administration had constituted a peace committee in the area.

The situation in some parts has improved. But tension continued in other areas such as Baliguda and Daringibadi. Many Christian families flee homes in Barkhama.

Chief Minister Naveen Pattnaik has reviewed the situation and the steps being taken to bring normalcy in Kandhamal district. Meanwhile, the Centre has asked the State Government for a detailed report.

Fresh incidents of violence were reported from curfew-bound areas of Barakhama and Jaleshpata on Wednesday.

According to police, four houses were torched outside Abraham, and six others were set on fire in Jaleshpata.

Laxmanananda Saraswati, a VHP leader and prominent anti-conversion activist was allegedly attacked on Monday that gave a violent turn to things.

Violence broke out in Phulbani, Baliguda, Daringibadi and Brahmanigaon as VHP activists ransacked six churches in Baliguda area disrupted Christmas festivities on Tuesday.

More than 27 platoons of armed police and three companies of CRPF have been deployed in the district to prevent further escalation of violence.

As a precautionary measure, prohibitory orders were also imposed in Phiringia, Tikabali, Udaigiri and Raikia. 

The CPM has condemned the attacks on minorities and their institutions. In a press statement in New Delhi, the Polit Bureau accused the Orissa Government of having failed to protect them and their property. It demanded deployment of adequate security forces in the affected areas and punishment to those responsible for the violence. (ANI)

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Loddowal (Jalandhar), Dec 27 (ANI): Nine peahens and two peacocks were found dead at Laddowal forest in Punjab's Jalandhar District.

The officials noticed a dead peacock initially in the Lodowal wildlife reserve area, and carried further search operation.

"We saw one dead peacock when I and forest guard Jasveer Singh were patrolling. After that we carried a search operation in the whole jungle area and found a total of dead nine peahens and two peacocks. We then informed higher officials and brought those birds in the hospital for postmortem," said Pritpal Singh, Assistant Forest Officer (AFO) of Ludhiana.

All the dead birds were taken to a close-by veterinary hospital in Ludhiana, but were later referred to the Regional Disease Diagnostic Research Centre in Jalandhar for further investigation.

Though the immediate cause of the deaths is not known, the birds have been sent for postmortem.

"With full precaution, we are sending all these birds to our regional laboratory RDDL (Regional Disease Diagnostic Research Centre) in Jalandhar for examination," said J.K. Uppal, a veterinarian.

The report is expected on Thursday.

Besides natural factors, destruction of habitats, poaching and contamination of food, are severely hampering the population of the bird.

Peacock is the national bird of India and known for beautiful feathers. 

Peacock population is higher in the arid zone of Rajasthan, where in spite of their destroying crops, they are not killed since some divinity is attached to the birds.

Peacock is the vehicle of Shanmukha, son of Lord Shiva and its feathers are associated with Lord Krishna.

Peacock feathers are collected and sold as these birds shed them frequently. Fans and dainty broom sticks are prepared from these feathers.

In ancient days, tribals like Bhils wore apparels made of such feathers. Even today, these play important part in tribal dances. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec 27 (ANI): Writers here have demanded that controversial Bangladeshi writer Taslima Nasreen should be granted freedom of speech and security.

"We, the writers' community, want to pressurise the government that Taslima should be provided with sufficient security. This is really shameful, if the State Government shows inability in doing so. If the State Government has been providing it (security) in other cases, then why not in this?" said Navivar Singh, a writer.

Rajendra Yadav, another writer, added, "To avoid mental trouble, primarily Taslima should be set free to meet everyone. The government, on one side, says that security has been provided to her, if house arrest is the name of security, and same house arrest in the form of security would be provided to her in Kolkata, then there is no point of such security."

Former West Bengal Chief Minister and veteran CPI (M) leader Jyoti Basu on Tuesday said that Taslima was 'welcome' to return back to Kolkata provided the Centre arranges her security in Kolkata.

Taslima is presently being kept at an undisclosed location in New Delhi, and was informed by officials that she would not be allowed to return to Kolkata for now.

External Affairs Minister Pranab Mukherjee later refuted this and denied reports that Taslima was kept under house arrest and was not being allowed to talk to media.

After a protest led by some radical Muslim groups, demanding her ouster from Kolkata turned violent in November this year, Taslima was moved from Kolkata to Jaipur, and then to Delhi.

She has equated her stay in the national capital to "solitary confinement."

The opposition BJP has accused the government of pandering to Muslim minorities by trying to get her out of the country.

New Delhi has said it will continue to host and protect the writer, but indicated she would have to avoid political activities and actions that might hurt India's relations with its friendly neighbours.

She has already made her wish to return to a "normal life" in Kolkata, but the Left Front government in the State is seen reluctant to it.

The author's visa is due to expire in February and New Delhi will have to decide on its extension. (ANI)
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Panaji, Dec 27 (ANI): Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh will arrive in Goa today on a two-day visit to attend several programmes. 

During his visit, Dr. Singh will inaugurate the first phase of the Goa Broadband Network project. 

The project will links the capital city with the two district and eleven taluk headquarters as part of promoting e-governance and a transparency in administration.

It envisages provision of services to the government such as IP telephony, online transaction portal, online education, healthcare, online booking and video conferencing.

It also provides BPO, call centres, KPO and PCOs services besides promoting e-learning and class room education, diagnosis and advice from hospitals and preventive health care from doctors, leave alone video-on demand and broadcast TV apart from broadband connectivity.

The Prime Minister will also attend the annual convocation ceremony of the Goa University on Friday. He will present D Lit to renowned playback singer Lata Mangeshkar and eminent scientist Anil Kakodkar.

Tight security arrangements have been made in view of his visit. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec 26 (ANI): The Sub Committee for the commemoration of the Tercentenary of Guru-ta-Gaddi of Guru Granth Sahib met here today under the chairpersonship of Tourism and Culture Minister, Ambika Soni.

Soni said that the Maharashtra Government has prepared a developmental plan of Rs. 817 crores.

The event is planned for 2008 in October in Nanded (Maharashtra) and is likely to attract 25-30 lakhs pilgrims from all over the world.

The meeting discussed the development proposals of Anandpur Sahib and Talwandi Sabo.

"The Centre has agreed in principle to the proposals sent by the Punjab Government for the development of Anandpur Sahib and Talwandi Sabo and a Cabinet note to get the necessary clearances from the Union Government will be moved soon," she said.

The development programmes of Anandpur Sahib and Talwandi Sabo will cost the exchequer about Rs. 183 crores.

The Minister also said the National Highway from Talwandi Sabo to Nanded is proposed to be named after Guru Gobind Singhji and this project will be developed by the Centre.

Punjab Chief Minister Prakash Singh Badal who attended the meeting thanked the Minister and the Centre for readily agreeing to the development projects of Anandpur Sahib and Talwandi Sabo. (ANI)
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Bhubaneshwar, Dec 26 (ANI): The situation in Orissa's Kandhamal district continues to remain tense after Hindu religious groups clashed with Christians on the day of Christmas.  

Indefinite curfew is still in force in Phulbani, Baliguda, Daringibadi and Brahmani Gaon area of the district as fresh incidents of violence has been reported from there.

Incidents of violence have been also reported from curfew-bound areas of Barakhama and Jaleshpata.

According to police, four houses have been torched outside Abraham, and six others were set on fire in Jaleshpata.

Additional security units have been sent to the affected areas.

Laxmanananda Saraswati, a VHP leader and prominent anti-conversion activist was allegedly attacked on Monday that gave a violent turn to things.

Paramilitary forces, including the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Rapid Action Force are on guard in the curfew-bound areas the State, which witnessed large-scale attacks on churches, houses and offices of certain NGOs on Tuesday, police said.

As a precautionary measure, prohibitory orders were also imposed in Phiringia, Tikabali, Udaigiri and Raikia, a senior police official said.

The CPM has condemned the attacks on minorities and their institutions. In a press statement in New Delhi, the Polit Bureau accused the Orissa government of having failed to protect them and their property. It demanded deployment of adequate security forces in the affected areas and punishment to those responsible for the violence. (ANI)
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New Delhi, Dec 26 (ANI): If anyone thought that the first ever joint counter terror exercise carried out by Indian and Chinese militaries in Kunming in China's Yunnan province would be an out and out serious affair, then one is grossly mistaken as it had a lot to do with cultural extravaganza and friendly bonhomie also.

So you had beautiful Chinese women swinging to songs from Sanjay Leela Bhansali's flick, Devdas, and Chinese military personnel dancing on the rhapsody steps of Bhangra.

As the five-day long military exercise between the two armies concluded on the Christmas day, the kind of jovial mood witnessed there could hardly give any one an inkling that these two countries fought each other almost half a century ago, and are still negotiating the controversial border dispute issue.

The chill in the weather was nowhere to be seen as women clad in bright red and gold ghagras and cholis swayed to the tune of 'Dola Re' trying to imitate histrionics of dancing diva Madhuri Dixit and beauty queen Aishwarya Rai, and they even succeeded to.

Bollywood may be a cliché, but it's a successful recipe that makes even Chinese dancers go gaga over it.

The dance numbers encapsulating Indian culture was on the cards but the Indian soldiers had no clue that it would be so warm and vibrant in Kunming, where the minimum temperature dipped to five degree Celsius.

During the day, when soldiers demonstrated their tactical skills of overcoming the hostage crisis, the evening was reserved for interaction and some 'celebration'.

Not only Bollywood dance beats, the Indian rum, Old Monk also made inroads into Chinese military's palate. (ANI)
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Indore, Dec 26 (ANI): A 78-year-old Draupadi Chandwani has been driving an auto-rickshaw for the past 15 years in Indore, for no reason but as a hobby.

Hailing from a well-to-do family Chandwani began driving auto-rickshaw just for fun but now her fancy desire has attracted a lot of attention from people around.

An enterprising lady, Chandwani initially managed a departmental store in Bangalore. For her, age is no limitation and she neither cares for the reaction of the society to her fancies.

"I thought that I should do something different. Then this idea hit my mind. It's only then people appreciate you. I drive auto-rickshaw for myself, and if some elderly needs a lift, I don't mind," said Chandwani.

In 1992, Chandwani approached her husband to buy her an auto-rickshaw. He readily fulfilled the demand.  Since then, she has been enjoying her auto-rickshaw drive.

After shifting to Indore in 2001, she did not lose interest in her hobby and continued with her passion on the roads of the princely city of Madhya Pradesh.

While on the road, her prime preference is for the oldies, the needy ladies and children.

Residents in her neighbourhood admire her guts and address her by the nickname 'Colonel Bai Saheb'.

"Although ladies do feel that this is a very difficult task, and believe that only men can handle the auto, with this lady driving the auto-rickshaw, I feel they are surely walking shoulder to shoulder with us. While the ladies at my home feel that now even they should do something like this," said Prakash.

Despite driving auto-rickshaw for the past 15 years, she still considers that auto-rickshaw driving is not a suitable a profession for women as indecent and drunken customers could pose threat to the safety and security of lady drivers. (ANI)

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New Delhi, Dec.26 (ANI): Pursuing higher education, whether in India or abroad, can worry the best of students and their parents, given the high
cost involved for lodging and tuition.

For instance, a leading business school in the United Kingdom charges 67,000 dollars (Euro 55,000) for tuition fees and living costs, while a similar school in the United States charges 110,000 dollars (Euro 90,000).

This expenditure could turn away potentially brilliant students, especially those hailing from a developing country such as India, were it not for
independent and non-profit institutions like the Cyprus International Institute of Management (CIIM) in Nicosia.

According to Gaurav Dubey, a Special Projects Officer at CIIM, Indian students are making a mark.

In an interview conducted over phone, Mr. Dubey told ANI that at present, CIIM had 256 students, of whom 22 were Indians, and in the next year, he said 30 Indian students would be selected or invited to join the institution.

"These students are from Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat and Orissa, and cities like Delhi, Mumbai Bangalore, and one Indian-origin student from the UK," said Mr. Dubey.

Elaborating further on the advantages in joining a business school like CIIM, Mr. Dubey said the key objective of the institute is to provide the
"same standard of education as available in institutions like Harvard, Oxford, Cambridge, the London Business School, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Wharton, Kellogg and Warwick at costs that were far less than what is demanded by business schools in the United States and the United Kingdom."

Endorsing Mr.Dubey's views, Atul Singh, a student hailing from Biharm, said:"If you want to learn, gain new experiences, I recommend it to students from India. It was a personal preference to come here (Nicosia) because I was getting a good education by spending less money and improving by networking."

Atul Singh is now interning with the International Merchandise Corporation in Nicosia, and has plans of using this stint to acquire a more lucrative assignment elsewhere, as work rules in Cyprus don't permit permanent employment to foreigners. He said that he has four offers from Finaland, Dubai, Qatar and Kuwait.

Sohail Khan from Mumbai said that his eleven-and-a-half months in Nicosia have been personally very fullfilling.

"I see my dreams and ambitions being fullfilled," he said, adding that he was interning with the pharmaceutical concern Merck, Sharpe and Dome in their finance department.

Aravind Muralidhar, another Indian graduate, said the overall experience was satisfactory, but wished that the law not allowing foreigners to work was waived.

He said being taught by visiting experts and academicians like Professor G.P. Shukla, Gordon Manfrey and Peter Clarke, who hailed from institutions like Harvard, Stanford, MIT and Oxford was a very rewarding experience.
 
Mr. Dubey said: "Our philosophy is that if, today's business is global, business education must also be global - in faculty, in curriculum and in students. Our faculty includes top professors from leading institutions in North America and Europe.

Professors teaching at CIIM have to teach in the same way as they do in their home institutions to which they are affiliated to in the United
States and Europe," said Mr. Dubey.

CIIM, he said, therefore, draws its faculty from 24 leading business schools from ten different countries, who, are tasked with the responsibility of
providing a stimulating environment conducive for high performance learning, and promoting new ideas, offering unique insights, diverse experiences and creative teaching methods.

Mr. Dubey said that CIIM offers MBA and MPSM courses with seven concentrations - Finance, Marketing, Human Resource Management and
Organisational Behaviour, Strategy and International Business, Technology and Operations Management, Shipping Management and Logistics and Entrepreneurship and Management of SMEs -- both of which were internationally accredited by the London-based Association of MBAs and the EFMD with the EPAS Accreditation Quality Label.

CIIM is one of the top five percent higher education schools worldwide with two or more accreditations, he said, but added this statistic changes from month to month.

Commenting on the selection process for both Indian students and students of other countries, he said: "We are a non-profit centre of excellence, making available to exceptional individuals, regardless of origin or financial means, a modular educational model involving interaction with management gurus and world-renowned academics."

"We rarely advertise. We are 100 percent non-profit and our (job) placements are to the tune of 95 percent. We have opportunities for paid internships, for which students have to compete. We are keen to avoid the red tape associated with some academic institutions. Our stress is on aptitude, attitude, personality and good background. As far as proficiency in English is concerned, if an applicant has had his or her medium of instruction in school or college in English, it does not make sense for us to ask either of them to take a test in English. The interview stage is very grilling, as we really want to know what the applicant is all about, apart from his academic proficiency," added Dubey.


The stress was on the quality of education and cost  (Rs.8, 25,000 as tuition fees), besides opportunity cost. The aim is to finish a two-year MBA
course in one year, and this was possible through the highest teaching contact hours (600), said Dubey.

Students were from 18 different nationalities and included doctors, engineers and finance guys. Fiver percent of them were from a family business background, said Dubey, adding that the faculty included one Indian - Professor Gangadhar Prasad Shukla -- a former member of the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) and ex-faculty member of Harvard (sixteen years),
who is presently attached with Duke University.

Dubey concluded by saying that in India, there were only six to seven business schools with credible MBA courses and accessibility to these institutions was poor, and therefore, institutions like CIIM provided some hope to both Indian students and students of other nationalities desirous of excelling further academically.

For the less privileged, he said that CIIM had limited seats for students with GMAT qualification, and also offered GMAT score scholarships. For
instance, he said that a GMAT score of 760 and above would help a student to get 100 percent scholarship. (ANI)
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Bhubaneswar, Dec 26 (ANI): Curfew continued for the second day on Wednesday in four towns of Orissa's Kandhamal District following the killing of a youth and the ransacking of three churches.

Violence broke out in Phulbani, Baliguda, Daringibadi and Brahmanigaon as Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) activists ransacked three churches in Baliguda area disrupted Christmas festivities on Tuesday.

VHP and Bajrang Dal activists blocked traffic in many areas and moved in groups to enforce a shutdown called in protest against the attack on anti-conversion leader Laxmanananda Saraswati.

Around 13 peopl