MARGAO: The All Goa Retired Seamen Welfare Association has lamented the fact that seamen are getting very negligible pension.
March 2010
Officials allay fears on water scarcity in Mapusa
MAPUSA: With summer season already begun, the water requirement has gone up and amidst a water scarcity in Mapusa and other parts of Bardez, the PWD has allayed all possible fears regarding water scarcity and has maintained that there is sufficient water for the next two critical summer months for Bardez.
Former PMC chairperson unhappy over delay in pre-monsoon works
PONDA: The former chairperson of Ponda municipal council (PMC), Mr Sanjay Manu Naik has expressed fear that if PMC fails to take up pre-monsoon works latest by next week, there is every possibility of monsoon woes that could hit the
city.
Senior citizens live in vacuum: Ramkrishna
Story Summary:
Renowned social worker and chartered accountant, Mr Ramkrishna Naik releasing the Senior Citizens Guide for Graceful Living. Also seen are Dr B Kakodkar, author, Mr V B P Verlekar, Dr Narayan Desai and Mr Vinay Borkar.
PANAJI: ‘Senior Citizens - Guide for Graceful Living’ authored by Goa-based chartered accountant Mr V B Prabhu Verlekar was released by social worker, Mr Ramkrishna V Naik, at a function held at ‘Sneha Mandir’ Ponda recently, by the Goa Hindu Association.
Youth Congress vows to fight issues affecting common man
MAPUSA: The North Goa district youth Congress has vowed to fight for issues that were affecting the common man in North Goa. The president of the committee, Mr Jitesh Kamat, has said that Mr Sankalp Amonkar, the state youth president has assured him all help to solve these issues.
Govt officials conduct site inspection of Anjuna project
Mapusa: The BDO officials and the forest department today conducted a site inspection at Anjuna were allegedly illegal houses under the pretext of farm houses have been allegedly approved by various government departments. the work has been stopped.
Trade deficit lower in q3 2009-10: RBI
MUMBAI: India’s trade deficit, on a Balance of Payment basis, was lower at USD 30.7 billion in the third quarter of the fiscal year ending today as compared to USD 34.0 billion during Q3of 2008-09.
Vijai Marine delivers barge to Vaibhavi Shipping
PANAJI: Vijai Marine Service has delivered to Vaibhavi Shipping Pvt. Ltd, Vasco a 2500 DWT iron ore-cum-coal carrier barge M V Abhilakhsi built in 68 days in Goa’s tiny but booming shipbuilding industry, meeting highest ship building standards of Indian Register of Shipping with Notations IWL, 31IY, Zone I, RLLC strengthen for heavy cargoes, single hold, 2650 cu mts hold capacity.
Goodbye Mr Jain, hello Mr Veljee
PANAJI: Mr Salim A Valjee, deputy director of Foods and Drugs Administrator (FDA) has been appointed to the post of director of FDA with effect from April 1, following the retirement of Mr Pramod Jain.
Dimdex concludes in Qatar
PANAJI: Doha International Maritime Defence Exhibition (DIMDEX 2010) was inaugurated under the auspices of Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani of Qatar. The event is hosted by Qatar Armed Forces and Qatar Emiri Naval Forces, QMDI following the successful inauguration of the first Defence Maritime conclave in 2008.
Caculo ford delivers 21 Ford Figos
PANAJI: Caculo Ford has delivered 21 Ford Figo’s at a grand function held Panaji, said a press release. The all New Ford Figo, has 4 trim levels – Lxi, Exi, Zxi & Titanium and is paired with a 5 speed manual gear box.
BJP’s Problems are not Over
BY PRAFUL BIDWAI
S the Bharatiya Janata Party obsessed with proving that it is the sectarian, confrontationist oddball of Indian politics? Recent developments suggest so. Take Gujarat Chief Minister, Mr Narendra Modi’s behaviour.
Innocent Victims of Jihad
A DAY after the jihadi attack in Moscow’s metro in which 39 people were killed on Monday, the Russian Prime Minister, Mr Vladimir Putin, who many Russians say is the country’s paramount leader despite stepping down as Kremlin chief in May 2008, has called upon the security forces to scrape the culprits "from the bottom of the sewers" and expose them.
Liberating the Ganga
EVER the past few decades, the central and state governments concerned have initiated some positive steps to protect and preserve the fragile ecology in the Himalayas and also allow unchecked flow of the river Bhagirathi till it reaches the plains as River Ganga; one more step recently was the decision to shelve two mega hydroelectric projects, the 381-MW Bhaironghati and 480-MW Pala-Maneri.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Misbehaviour in Buses
Ramesh Veluskar’s collection of poems released
PANAJI: ‘Samudramudika’ a collection of Hindi book written by Ramesh Bhagwant Veluskar was released at the hands of Padmashri recipient Dr Suresh Amonkar on Monday at the Institute Menezes Braganza Hall, Panaji.
Significance of Maundy Thursday
BY CLARA A RODRIGUES
“What greater love can a person have for his friend than to give up his life for his sake.” These weren’t just mere words to Jesus Christ. It was the guiding principle of his life.
Learn a skill this summer
BY PURVI RADIA
The summer of 2010 has already set in and with temperatures rising, it looks like the exam stress may have gone but the what-to-do-now bug has just been unleashed.
A wave of coastal dances sweeps Goa
A three-day festival, ‘Lehar- the Wave’, which was a festival where various coastal folk dances of India were shown concluded on Sunday with grand finale. The festival was helpful in showcasing the rich Indian culture.
Learning to paint in idyllic surroundings
Bookworm, the children’s library at St Inez, Panaji found a supporter in Sunil S Mehta of Merces to hold a fund-raising art workshop at the charming courtyard space of Gallery Gitanjali, Panjim Pousada which is one of the three heritage hotels based in Fountainhas, Panaji.
Bowled Over
By Odette and Joe Mascarenhas
I am talking about the sounds of fulfilment that yours truly made as she descended a swanky new place at Miramar.
The Local Magic
Chef Amit Bhardwaraj of Alila Diwa Goa recommends
The açaí palm is a species of palm tree cultivated for their fruit and superior hearts of palm. Its name comes from the European adaptation of the Tupian word ïwasa'i, 'fruit that cries or expels water'.
Special Category Status for Goa
Prior to the Fourth Plan, the allocation of Central assistance was based on schematic pattern and there was no formula for allocation.
Politics and Misplaced Priorities
By Ambikanand Sahay
s you drive down from Akshardham Temple in Delhi towards Greater Noida, greenery greets you. On your right is Mayawati’s dream park. It’s a gorgeous project.
History and Heritage of the St Estevam Church
By Prajal Sakhardande
uvem or St Estevam is a beautiful island of Tiswadi. In the past was well know as "Shakecho Juvo" - the isle of vegetables - especially noted for its long, seven-ridged, light green ladyfingers.
Antique Paintings of the “Last Supper”
By Hector Choksi
he portrayal of the "Last Supper", when just prior to Easter, Jesus Christ took food for the last time with his twelve disciples, is as important in Christian iconography as the scene of Nativity is for Christmas.
Government for Politicians
By Dharmendra Nath (IAS (Retd)
re politicians a class apart? A Laxman cartoon shows a man sitting in luxurious surroundings. He says to his visitor ‘You are telling me about the difficulty of living.
Goan Holi Traditions
By Vinayak Khedekar
oli forms an essential part of the Shigmo festival either on day of the full moon or any other day of Falgun. The day and time is scheduled, as the tradition of village would dictate.
“Via Dolorosa” – A Great Effort
By Tomazinho Cardozo
he mega Passion play – Via Dolorosa – produced, directed and performed by the parishioners of Santa Cruz was indeed a satisfying experience and people enjoyed every bit of the 3-hour presentation.
Natural Treatments for Arthritis Patients
By Dr Kasturi Desai
nother common disease where the patient experiences pain is arthritis. There are over 100 different forms of arthritis. However, the most common form is osteoarthritis, which is a result of trauma to the joint, infection of the joint, or age. It is caused by the breakdown and eventual loss of the protein substance that protects between the bones of the joints.
Sterkfontein Caves
By Meher Castelino
ust as we have the Ajanta and Ellora caves in Aurangabad which tell the history of India in the most beautiful frescos, there are many caves around the world which have documented the past and are a treasure to behold.
Menace of Age Fraud
By Kennedy D’Silva
t a time when the Sports Ministry has been giving due impetus to organising major sports events and increasing the budgetary provisions it also reported some measures it had taken up in the year, important among them being efforts to prevent age frauds, strengthening of anti-doping mechanism and increasing accountability of national federations.
Challenges of E-waste Management
By Dr Nandkumar Kamat
lectronic Waste (e-Waste) comprises of waste electronic/electrical goods which are not fit for their originally intended use. These include items such as computers, cellular phones, stereos, refrigerators, air conditioners, other consumer durables, etc. Every year there are 2 million e-waste items.
View from Raisinia Hill: Politics and Misplaced Priorities
By Ambikanand Sahay
As you drive down from Akshardham Temple in Delhi towards Greater Noida, greenery greets you. On your right is Mayawati’s dream park. It’s a gorgeous project.
Goa’s ruling allies to meet in Delhi today
Story Summary:
The co-ordination committee meeting of the ruling combine in the state would be held in New Delhi late on Wednesday evening to sort out differences among the constituents of the government.
PANAJI: The co-ordination committee meeting of the ruling combine in the state would be held in New Delhi late on Wednesday evening to sort out differences among the constituents of the government.
Bus service scheme to be extended to SC students
Story Summary:
The social welfare department has decided to extend the Indira Bal Rath Yojana to the students of scheduled castes from the next financial year.
PANAJI: The social welfare department has decided to extend the Indira Bal Rath Yojana to the students of scheduled castes from the next financial year.
Doppler radar to arrive in Goa soon
PANAJI: Though the high-tech ‘made in China’ Doppler radar will arrive at the state meteorological observatory, Altinho within next two weeks, the ongoing construction of the building in the vicinity of the observatory for installation of the radar is behind schedule by at least three weeks. The Doppler radar will be replacing the one-and-half decade old cyclonic detection radar existing at the observatory.
ESG approves proposal to draft Entertainment Policy of state
PANAJI: The general body of the Entertainment Society of Goa on Tuesday in principal approved the proposal to draft the Entertainment Policy of Goa, for which modalities would be worked out by the ESG.
Hanuman Jayanti celebrated
Story Summary:
Devotees worshiping Lord Hanuman at Hanuman Mandir at Panaji bus stand on the occasion of Hanuman Jayanti on Tuesday.
BICHOLIM: The birth anniversary of Lord Hanuman (Hanuman Jayanti) was celebrated at the temples of Lord Hanuman at Sudhanagar-Bicholim, Sanquelim, Naigini-Kudchirem and other places in the Bicholim taluka with a religious fervour and gaiety.
Woman shot at in Baina; robbery bid suspected
VASCO: A married woman residing in a housing society at Patrong-Baina, was shot at by an unidentified person, after entering her flat, probably in a bid to rob her.
HC disposes of Sanjay Parab’s anticipatory bail plea
PANAJI: The single judge, Mr Justice N A Britto of the Bombay High Court at Goa on Tuesday disposed of the anticipatory bail plea filed by Sanjay Parab.
Belgaum native found dead in rented room at Bicholim
BICHOLIM: Nirupaksha alias Swami Maharudrayya, 29, a native of Belgaum but residing in a rented accommodation at Gaonkar wada, Bicholim, was found dead under mysterious circumstances on late Monday night.
Cuncolim vandalism accused remanded
MARGAO: Fenny Britto, who was arrested for his alleged involvement in Cuncolim vandalism, was produced before the Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC), Margao, on Tuesday and seven days police remand was taken.
Rs 1.5 crore jewellery theft:4 foreigners arrested in state
BANGALORE: Police have arrested four Latin American nationals from Goa in connection with Rs 1.5 crore jewellery theft case and recovered the ornaments stolen from a hotel room last week.
Valpoi Massordem spring crying for government attention
VALPOI: Massordem village situated in Valpoi is known for its fresh water spring called ‘Maasordem Jhari.’ This spring, situated at a distance of about 1km from Valpoi town near a tributary of Mhadei river, is surrounded by cashew plantation and the path to it is covered by thick mangroves, which makes access to the site difficult. This spring is in need of being upgraded.
Surprise checks on fair price shops to curb black marketeering
VASCO: In order to curb the rising black marketing in the fair price shops in the state, the minister for Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs, Mr Jose Philip D’Souza, has directed the Civil Supplies and Consumer Affairs Department officials,
Mapusa merchants panel threatens stir
MAPUSA: The All Goa Merchants Association has threatened to stage an agitation if the municipalities in the state and the government fail to initiate action against the hawkers, who by conducting their business deprive the merchants of their livelihood.
AI take on relegation-threatened Lajong
MUMBAI: Air India take on relegation-threatened Shillong Lajong FC in a 19th round I-League match at the Cooperage ground on Wednesday.
Sarvodaya Sporting enter finals
PANAJI: A chanceless unbeaten knock of 97 by Suraj Dongre helped Sarvodaya Sporting Club beat Salgaocar SC by 7 wickets to book their place in the finals of Bandodkar League cricket tournament, organised by Panjim Gymkhana at Bandodkar grounds, Panaji.
Politics, Shankar XI top
PANAJI: Rastroli Sports Club, Karaswa da organised all Goa floodlit cricket tournament at Karaswada and also 3-day inter-ward tournament. All together 52 teams participated.
Candolim down Adarsh YS
MAPUSA: Candolim Sports Club registered a 5-3 win via tie-breaker over Adarsh Yuvak Sangh Sports Club Saligao, to move into the quarter-finals of Calangute Panchayat Cup, organised by Calangute Association, at Poriat grounds, here on Tuesday. The teams were locked in a 1-1 draw after the end of regulation time.
Kashima first into ACL knockouts
SINGAPORE: Japanese heavyweights Kashima Antlers powered into the last 16 of the AFC Champions League on Tuesday for the third year in a row, but Adelaide United’s bid to join them stalled.
CII gives thumbs up on education, healthcare budget
PANAJI: The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) believes that education and healthcare for all is a prerequisite for inclusive development of the state and the country. However, it felt that the steps initiated in the current budget needs substantial reinforcement in years to come.
Portuguese wine makers seek Indian importers
PANAJI: Born to wine-making family’s heritage, nine wine distillers from Portugal, called the A9 Group, were in Goa seeking wine importers and distributors, offering to cost share with them in marketing and promotion strategies.
Indoco teams up with Aspen
PANAJI: Pharma firm Indoco has said it secured a strategic lead by licensing out its intellectual property to South Africa’s largest pharmaceutical company Aspen Pharmacare Ltd. The deal encompasses a number of ophthalmic products and will extend to 30 countries from emerging markets.
Gymming for health enthusiasts at Basilio’s
PANAJI: Basilio’s Health Club, one of the biggest gyms in Goa, celebrates its 8th Anniversary this April. With the aim to provide state of the art fitness equipment and routines to health enthusiasts, it has recently revamped its entire health centre with complete gym equipment from fitness equipment company Jerai Fitness Pvt Ltd.
Peace via People-to-People Contact
BY KULDIP NAYAR
INDIA and Pakistan are going more and more distant from each other. In any case, they have never been normal neighbours. But after the attack on Mumbai in November some 15 months ago, both are intentionally moving apart.
Drugs under Lock and Key
THE revelation of the Home Minister, Mr Ravi Naik that seized narcotic substances have not been destroyed since the year 2000 has been quite shocking. This goes contrary to the spirit and content of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985.
Justice and Injustice
SHARIAT Court in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) had ordered death sentence to 17 Indians for killing a Pakistani and injuring three others in an attack that took place last year over the control of illegal liquor business in Al Sajaa area of Sharjah. Any one irrespective of his social and financial stature must be punished if found to be involved in crime.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Street Light Needed
String Quartet all set to delight Western Classical music enthusiasts
What better way to forge closer ties than through music. What a big difference it can make to millions if nations followed the same. India and Austria will further strengthen ties and cultural exchange with a splendid performance by the renowned violinist Joji Hattori and the Vienna Chamber Orchestra String Quartet who are all set to delight aficionados of western classical music at a concert on April 3 at 6.15 p.m. at the Dinanath Mangeshkar Auditorium, Kala Academy.
Hillsong London to perform in Goa
From:
06/04/2010
The Hillsong London band is probably best known the world over for its songs of praise and worship, however, there is so much more to what they are than simply music!
Life and times of Bakibab Borkar
PANAJI: Aami Goenkar, an association of Goans established with an aim to unite all Goans residing in and outside Goa, to create a common platform to interact and create solutions in the areas of health, education, social welfare and culture, will present in Goa four shows of a unique programme based on the life and times of the Goan poet, B B alias Bakibab Borkar titled ‘Jine Gangaughachen Panee’, in commemoration of the ongoing birth centenary year of the celebrated personality.
‘Novo Rosto’, a choice-driven operetta to preserve ecology
The operetta ‘Novo Rosto’ ignites the minds of the youth for a choice to shine like stars in the world. Victor (Anil Pednekar) a youth leader and the hero of the play, challenges young people to be leaders, to the transform the society, based on Gospel values.
Hues & Views
By Naguesh Rao Sardessai
‘Hues & Views’ is an exhibition of photographs and paintings put together by young graduates from the Goa College of Art, Altinho. Currently on at the Art Gallery of the Kala Academy, Goa, it has an interesting display of significantly admirable quality works.
Learning painting in idyllic surroundings
Bookworm, the children’s library, at St Inez, Panaji found a supporter in Sunil S Mehta of Merces to hold an art workshop at the charming courtyard space of Gallery Gitanjali, Panjim Pousada, which is one of the three Heritage Hotels based in Fountainhas, Panjim. It was a fund raising event for the Bookworm.
Mistress of Spice Martins Corner
Red checked tablecloths on the table, the bar like the taverna of old. This restaurant is the haunt of Page 1 and Page 3 celebrities…politicians, sportspersons, actors.
17 Indians sentenced to death in UAE
Story Summary:
Seventeen Indians have been sentenced to death by Sharjah’s Shariah court for killing a Pakistani man and injuring three others in a vicious attack last year after a dispute over illegal liquor business in the Gulf Emirate.
DUBAI: Seventeen Indians have been sentenced to death by Sharjah’s Shariah court for killing a Pakistani man and injuring three others in a vicious attack last year after a dispute over illegal liquor business in the Gulf Emirate.
Govt to take action over manipulation in HSRP tender
Story Summary:
The Transport Minister, Mr Ramkrishna Dhavalikar on Monday disclosed that the government would initiate action against those involved in manipulating the tendering process for high security registration plates.
BY JOAO SOUSA M
PANAJI: The Transport Minister, Mr Ramkrishna Dhavalikar on Monday disclosed that the government would initiate action against those involved in manipulating the tendering process for high security registration plates.
SSC exam from March 31
PANAJI: The Goa Board of Secondary and Higher Secondary Education has completed all arrangements for a total of 17,708 students to appear for the March 2010 Secondary School Certificate examination, which commences from March 31.
GUCB employees defer strike to May 3
Story Summary:
The Goa Urban Co-operative Bank employees agitating outside the head office at Panaji in support of their demands.
PANAJI: The customers of the Goa Urban Co-operative Bank (GUCB) were put to inconvenience on Monday as the bank employees went on a strike in support of their long pending demands.
GIBA demands CBI probe into computer schemes
PANAJI: Goa IT Business Association, the apex body of IT-related commercial establishments in the state, on Monday alleged that the department of education is involved in a multi-crore scam related to the supply of computers to schools as well as the students under the computer literacy programme (CLP) and Cyberage (Edunet) scheme, respectively, and further demanded a thorough inquiry by the Central Bureau of Investigations (CBI) into the same.
Vandalism at Cuncolim; one arrested
MARGAO: Another incident of vandalism, this time at Savorcatto in Cuncolim was reported on Sunday night where a cross and a window glass of the St Anthony’s church were found broken. The cross is said to be located along the roadside while the church is situated around a kilometre away from this site.
Genuine requirements will be looked into: CM
PANAJI: The Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat said that though the government has scrapped the Cyberage (Edunet) scheme, it can always consider genuine computer requirement of students, from say economically or socially backward classes.
12 firms submit bids for River Princess removal
PANAJI: In all 12 companies, including two foreign, have submitted their tenders for cutting and removing of the ill-fated vessel, M V River Princess.
Goa set to switch over to Bharat Stage-III norms from April 1
by Joao Souza M | NT
PANAJI: As part of the petroleum sector’s endeavour to provide clean and green fuels to the nation, Goa is all set to switch over to fuels conforming to Bharat Stage-III norms from April 1.
Govt considering national waterways proposal
by Michael Fisher
PANAJI: The Goa government is considering going ahead with plans by the Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) to turn all Goa rivers to national waterways on conditions that the authority meets all its `rigid’ proposals plus give it the major power over the management of the rivers.
Salgaocar hand East Bengal 4-1 drubbing
MARGAO: Salgaocar Sports Club eased the pressure to a great extent with a 4-1 drubbing of a listless East Bengal to garner three crucial points in the I-League match played at Nehru stadium Fatorda on Monday.
Nagoa lift Rajasthan Marbles trophy
MAPUSA: Nagoa Sports Club survived some anxious moments in the finals of 6th Rajasthan Marbles Trophy, organised by Saligao United Sports Club, before they could register a 5-4 win via tie-breaker over Candolim Sports Club, to lift the glittering trophy, at Dr Gustavo Monteiro stadium, Candolim here on Sunday
Guru - ‘Mr Efficient’ of Nehru stadium
MARGAO: When Gurudas Vernekar, popularly known as Guru joined as the stadium manager at Nehru stadium, Fatorda, many of his detractors doubted his abilities.
Ponda roads to be tarred by May: CO
PONDA: The Ponda Chief Officer, Mr Jayant Tari, who is also holding the post of deputy collector, Ponda, informed him that the city roads would be tarred by the end of May month and then installation of the signboards would be taken up.
Mapusa civic body should speed up dump site acquisition: Raposo
MAPUSA: Outgoing Assagao Communidade Attorney Mr Cajetan Raposo who has been instrumental in pursuing the fight against the Mapusa Municipality for dumping its garbage in Assagao Communidade land has said that as per the court order, the municipality is supposed to finish all requirements and acquire the site at Cunchelim for setting up a garbage treatment plant within six months.
Fear that survival not possible without English is baseless: Desai
POINGUINNIM: A Shikshak Parishad organised by the Gomantak Rashtriya Bhasa Vidhyapeet, Margao, was held on Sunday at Ashwath Narayan Sabhagraha, Mokardamoll, Shristhal, Canacona.
Budget increased for micro financing
MARGAO: Through the recent budget, the Centre has increased the corpus fund of micro financing from Rs 200 crore to Rs 400 crore, and hence Self-Help-Groups functioning in Goa will not have any difficulty in getting funds from banking institutions for genuine programmes, informed MP, Mr Shantaram Naik at Margao, on Monday, said a press release.
‘Happy Days’ for family, kids
PANAJI: Residents of Panaji can now walk into the swanky Happy Days restaurant located near the municipal garden that gives an overseas downtown bistro feeling. Although its furnish appearance gives an upscale ambience, the bill of fare is reasonably competitive in pricing.
‘Big Discount’ shopping festival underway in Margao
PANAJI: The Big Discount shopping festival currently underway at SGPDA ground in Margao, will continue till March 31 and will be open from 10.30 a.m. till 9 p.m. Various lifestyle and household items by major market leaders in the corporate sector are on display and sale. Major furniture houses have put up designer furniture stalls with imported furniture.
Sesa Goa offers agri equipment to Betki farmers
PONDA: Sesa Goa has been adhering to its commitment to agricultural development in line with its CSR philosophy, by helping the farmers in terms of training, seeds, fertilizers, and farm equipments. Recently Sesa Goa gave agricultural assistance in the form of a power tiller and weed cutter to the Betki Farmers Club.
The Mirage of Muslim Reservation
BY FIROZ BAKHT AHMED
DIVISIVE reservations based on gender, social status and religion as according to the Andhra Pradesh High Court, rather than helping, will only make matters worse rather than redressing the wrongs meted out to the said sections of society.
Object of the Case
The investigating and prosecuting agencies of the central government have every right to pursue cases against the BJP leaders, Mr Lal Krishna Advani and Mr Narendra Modi or leaders of other parties in the opposition, but they should also with equal determination pursue cases against leaders of parties that support the Queen Bee of the UPA coalition, the Congress party.
For Pleasure of Sonia
Amitabh Bachchan has landed himself in controversy once again. This time, for sharing dais with the Maharashtra Chief Minister, Mr Ashok Chavan at the inauguration of Northern Carriageway of the Bandra-Worli Sealink on March 24.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Saving our Planet
I
THE Catholic Church in Mumbai has taken up the ‘green cause’ by dedicating this year to issues concerning the environment. It is imperative that all religions adopt similar measures, for as the Roman pontiff has rightly said, "In order to protect peace, we must protect creation".
Sunaparanta to hold photography fest
BY CLARA A RODRIGUES
Knowledge can still be elusive to the bespectacled scholar buried in a pile of books. An education is incomplete without a simultaneous journey into the outer world.
Aria Italiana by Paolo Vergari
BY NADIA D’SILVA
The ‘Rhythm, Dance, Celebration… aria Italiana’ a piano recital by Italian pianist, Paolo Vergari while revealing brilliant skill raised the listener to the rapture of exquisite musical appeal.
A Quartet Exhibition of works by 4 artists
Four artists, four distinctive ways of imaging the world.
Aniketa Deshpande from Nagpur with her Utopian world of endless fantasy, absolute serenity and harmony, and ethereal delusion.
Three-day Chaitrapournimotsav from today at Panaji
PANAJI: The annual three-day Chaitrapournimotsav at the Mahalaxmi Temple, Panaji organised by the Chaitrapournimekar Samaj, will begin on March 30, with Hanuman Jayanti, the birth of Lord Hanuman at 9 a.m, followed by Sukhasan procession of Shri Mahalaxmi at 8.30 p.m, and performance of a Marathi play, ‘Ashi Pakhare Yeti’ at 9.30 p.m.
Problems with Learning Disabilities
By Amita Quenim
Some talk well, some write well, some sing well and so on. Some have a combination of two talents and some have more. The question is how does one categorise?
Colour Wise
By Meher Castelino
Life in the corporate world may not be very colourful for the male but for the female executive it is definitely bright. To make the right corporate decisions one doesn’t have to wear sombre colours like black, white or brown but choosing the right colour is not magical nor is it an art. It is a matter of rules, which are quite definite.
B ‘Az u r’
By Odette and Joe Mascarenhas
Well Gennext is always texting in cryptic formats. One has to cope with the transition. New concepts…new fundas.
Mascis’ Corner - Sushi Time
CHEFKONSTANTIN KIM of ROCOCCO@ASHVEM RESORT RECOMMENDS
The contemporary version, internationally known as "sushi," was invented by Hanaya Yohei (1799–1858) at the end of Edo periodin Edo.
Modi’s questioning is a big step forward: SIT chief
Story Summary:
Mr R K Raghavan, the chief of the apex court-appointed special investigation team that quizzed the Gujarat Chief Minister, Mr Narendra Modi over the 2002 riots.
GANDHINAGAR/NEW DELHI: Mr R K Raghavan, the chief of the apex court-appointed special investigation team that quizzed the Gujarat Chief Minister, Mr Narendra Modi over the 2002 riots, said the questioning was a “very big step forward” and the panel was likely to submit its report within the deadline of April 30.
Obama on surprise visit to Afghanistan
Story Summary:
The US President, Mr Barack Obama made a surprise visit to Afghanistan on Sunday.
WASHINGTON: The US President, Mr Barack Obama made a surprise visit to Afghanistan on Sunday, his first since taking office last year to meet the President, Mr Hamid Karzai.
India test-fires nuclear-capable ballistic missile
BALASORE (ORISSA): India on Sunday successfully test-fired its nuclear-capable, 700-km range ballistic missile Agni-I from Wheeler Island off the Orissa coast, a day after launching two other short-range missiles.
Palm Sunday observed in Goa
Story Summary:
The Catholic community across the state on Sunday offered special prayers on Palm Sunday, which marks the entry into the Holy Week commemorating the last events of the life of Jesus.
PANAJI: The Catholic community across the state on Sunday offered special prayers on Palm Sunday, which marks the entry into the Holy Week commemorating the last events of the life of Jesus.
Kaushal died of ‘natural causes’: GMC panel report
PANAJI: A panel of Goa Medical College doctors in their preliminary report, after performing the post-mortem on the body of British fugitive of Indian origin – Ajay Kaushal -- has said the 50-year-old person died of “natural causes”. The deceased was lodged in the Sada sub-jail while in judicial custody.
‘Special relationship’ with US is over, say British MPs
LONDON: Britain must end its “special relationship” with the US to end the perception that it was a “subservient poodle”, British MPs have recommended, saying London should be willing to say “no” when its interests diverge with that of Washington.
Sarpanch, secretary taken to task over NREG Scheme
MARGAO: The Rs 95,95,000 budget for the year 2010-2011 was passed by the gram sabha members of the Varca village panchayat on Sunday, amidst some persistent questioning, regarding some expenditure mentioned in the budget proposal, to be submitted to the Block Development Officer, Salcete Block, Margao.
Mega projects dominate Betalbatim gram sabha
MARGAO: The gram sabha of the village panchayat of Betalbatim was held on Sunday, where not only the villagers but also the Tourism Minister, Mr Francisco Pacheco who attended, took active part in the deliberations.
Heavy barge traffic makes Rassaim-Durbhat bridge unviable
JOAO SOUSA M
PANAJI: The Rassaim-Durbhat ferry route is one of the busiest ferry routes in the state. This route reduces the distance between Rassaim and Ponda by almost 8 km, and so is extensively used by the people living in Vasco and surrounding areas, who work in the industrial estates in and around Ponda.
Brandon invited for Cape United trials
MARGAO: One of Goa’s most talented footballer Brandon Fernandes has been invited by the Cape United Soccer School of Excellence, a renowned football academy from South Africa for selection trials.
Cavelossim thump St Savio’s 5-2
MAPUSA: St Cruz Sports Club, Cavelossim came out all guns blazing in the second session to demolish St Savio’s Sports Club, Calangute 5-2 in their last round match of GFA’s Second Division Inter Zonal play-offs played at Duler grounds, on Sunday.
Dempo in Bandodkar cricket semis
PANAJI: Dempo CC beat hosts Panjim Gymkhana to book their place in the semi-finals of Bandodkar league limited overs cricket tournament ,organised by Panjim Gymkhana. In the last league match played on Sunday, Dempo beat the host team by 9 wickets. Madhu Kamat scored strokeful unbeaten 66 and set up the Dempo win.
New SJAG committee
PANAJI: Following is the newly-elected committee of Sports Journalists Association of Goa (SJAG), elected unanimously, for the term 2010-12 at the recently-held General Body meeting.
Senior state chess championships
PANAJI: The Goa State Chess Association in association with Clube Tennis de Gaspar Dias and Sports Authority of Goa will conduct the senior state chess championships cum National ‘B’ selection tournament from April 11-15 at Clube Tennis de Gaspar Dias Miramar.
Royals reign over Super Kings
AHMEDABAD: Naman Ojha top-scored with 80 as Rajasthan Royals held off the challenge of the Chennai Super Kings to record their fourth successive Indian Premier League victory on Sunday.
Bhajji blows away Chargers
MUMBAI: Harbhajan Singh cracked a stunning 18-ball unbeaten 49 and then grabbed three wickets as Mumbai Indians crushed Deccan Chargers by 41 runs in an Indian Premier League match here Sunday night.
Blunder on Land Revenue Income
BY NANDKUMAR KAMAT
IT is a decision which has gone without much notice and analysis probably because very few people have time and priority to scrutinise the budget papers in depth. There was no political will to take up this issue but the government was concerned about mounting public debt, audit objections and juridical intervention.
The Rajasthan Model
THE Government of Goa has decided to take on the crime against foreign tourists. The Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat’s promise to try such crimes on day-to-day basis comes with government seeking cooperation of the Chief Justice of Bombay High Court in this regard.
Homeless Politicians
IT is disgraceful that our politicians are out to grab the houses built for poor slum dwellers under the centrally-sponsored Integrated Housing and Slum Development Programme. If the reports emanating from Srinagar are to be believed, the politician and contractor nexus in Jammu and Kashmir is deeply involved in this scam.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Artificially Ripened Mangoes
THOUGH the mango season is well and truly on, it must be said that the fruits available in the market are beyond the reach of the common man because of its prohibitive prices.
Govt seeks greater collaboration with industry
NEW DELHI: Avowing that the government intends to continue the process of liberalising the economy and dismantling controls, the Planning Commission in a futuristic sense speaks of greater collaboration between industry and business on the lines that exist in Japan, China and other Asian countries that have recorded rapid industrialisation and high growth.
Ark SMC answer to Goan job conundrum
PANAJI: Ark Shipping & Management Company (Ark SMC) is the first company to design and manufacture a dry drill simulator at its factory in Pilerne Industrial Estate, Goa. “We are the first in India to manufacturer a dry drill simulator,” he told the Navhind Times.
Car-makers set to up prices from April 1
MUMBAI: With the government set to implement the Euro IV emission norms from April 1, several car-makers said they would be increasing the prices of their vehicles next month.
Indian American appointed US chief Agriculture Negotiator
WASHINGTON: An Indian American has been appointed as the chief agriculture negotiator of the United States, who would carry out all critical negotiations for the country in the crucial Doha round and other bilateral discussions.
Potato prices to rise during summer season
CHANDIGARH: With a view to ensure the farmers remunerative prices and enable them to take the right decision on when to sell their agricultural produce, the Choudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University (CCHAU) has released forecast on the prices of potato and mustard.
Corporates respond to Global’s crystal expo
PANAJI: A range of over 100 glinting crystal decorative products took centre stage at Hotel Mandovi, in an exhibition organised by Global Enterprises.
INTUC welcomes state budget
PANAJI: Indian National Trade Union Congress (INTUC) Goa Pradesh has welcomed the state budget.
Kids Gurukul rents expensive toys
PANAJI: A library with over 2,000 children toys for rent and sale has been launched for the first time in Goa by Delhi-based Kids Gurukul.
Creating a niche for tribal craft
Story Summary:
Tribal craft which is synonymous with the Goan village life is now getting a new lease of life through the efforts of the Goa Handicrafts Department writes Arti Das
The consumer market is flooded with commercial goods. With a little variation they exhibit to some extent a homogenous quality. They look the same and score poorly on creativity. Like a breath of fresh air, hand crafted items come to your rescue.
Now beat stress at its source - the workplace!
By Anand Ayyangar
Transcendental Meditation of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi is making waves among the busy new-age Indian as a means of achieving a great work and personal life balance.
Whats in a name…
Chef John Periera of the Cidade de Goa recommends
Sopa is a term which we are comfortable with…it means ‘soup.’ But if one browses through the Food and Dietary Adaptations among Hispanics in US…one would have to think again.
Tiatr Personality: JESUS ANTAO
By J P Pereira
For 28 years, Jesus Antao has made the audience laugh while performing on the Konkani stage. This comedian hailing from Chinchinim is the son of the late Antonio Piedade and Natalina Antao, the youngest of ten children.
‘Playing music is like discovering a new world’
BY ARTI DAS
Pianist Marouan Benabdallah from Hungary, the internationally acclaimed artiste, is not new to Goa or the Goan audience. He is of the opinion that Goans have an ear for good music and appreciate western classical music.
Goa a treasure house of culture
Story Summary:
Endowed with natural beauty, Goa presents a fine sensitive blend of Indian and Western culture writes Dr. P.R. Phaldesai
Politics and Misplaced Priorities
By Ambikanand Sahay
As you drive down from Akshardham Temple in Delhi towards Greater Noida, greenery greets you. On your right is Mayawati’s dream park. It’s a gorgeous project. Thanks to its magnificence and workmanship, all the structures that have come up look grand.
Need a Life….
By Kavitha Reddy
“Need a Life….” was all my heart said, so I called my friends and we decided to go on a trek. We gathered at Delhi, travelled by interstate bus to Rishikesh, a six-and-a-half hour overnight journey that was as (un)comfortable as possible in a badly managed bus service.
SIT questions Modi in Gujarat riot case
Story Summary:
For the first time since the riots in Gujarat eight years ago, state Chief Minister, Mr Narendra Modi on Saturday.
GANDHINAGAR: For the first time since the riots in Gujarat eight years ago, state Chief Minister, Mr Narendra Modi on Saturday subjected himself to questioning by the Supreme Court-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) in two sessions, including one lasting for over five hours.
High-level panel suggests revocation of HSRP contract
Story Summary:
The high-level committee headed by the Chief Secretary, Mr Sanjay Kumar Shrivastava, set up to enquire the alleged irregularities in the award of...
PANAJI: The high-level committee headed by the Chief Secretary, Mr Sanjay Kumar Shrivastava, set up to enquire the alleged irregularities in the award of tender for High Security Registration Plates (HSRP), has found the process was flawed and suggested that the concession agreement entered into with Shimnit Utsch India Pvt Ltd should be revoked.
Seized narcotics not destroyed since 2000
PANAJI: Informing that the Goa police have seized 90 kg of drugs in the state during past two years, the Home Minister, Mr Ravi Naik on Saturday said that though a committee has been constituted as per the central government order for destroying the seized narcotic substances, no such substances have been destroyed since the year 2000.
23 crewmen rescued after cargo ship catches fire
VASCO: The Coast Guard and naval teams, on Friday evening, rescued 23 crew members onboard ‘M V Maersk Miami,’ a container carrier heading towards JNPT, Mumbai, after the international cargo ship caught fire, about 43 nautical miles off the coast of Goa.
Cases of assault on foreigners to be tried on daily basis: CM
PANAJI: The Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat on Saturday informed the state legislative assembly that cases related to assaults/attacks on foreigners would be tried on day-to-day basis and disposed off in a set time frame.
BJP hits out at Azgaonkar over luxurious hostel proposal
PANAJI: The opposition Bharatiya Janata Party on Saturday came out heavily against the Minister for Sports, Mr Manohar Azgaonkar for his proposal to construct a luxurious hostel in the form of a public-private partnership venture, along the coastline in the Mandrem constituency, as a part of the Sports City project coming up at Dhargal, for the National Games 2011 to be held in Goa.
Non-cognisable case against Atala
Story Summary:
The Panaji police on Saturday informed that they have registered a non-cognisable case against Israeli drug dealer, Yaniv Behahim alias Atala now in judicial custody, for abusing a press photographer, Mr Kailash L Naik.
PANAJI: The Panaji police on Saturday informed that they have registered a non-cognisable case against Israeli drug dealer, Yaniv Behahim alias Atala now in judicial custody, for abusing a press photographer, Mr Kailash L Naik.
Kamat assures delegation on RP 2021
MARGAO: A delegation of GBA, BVAC, Voice of Villagers-Verna, Keri Nagrik Samiti, and a few other were assured by the Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat that the final draft Regional Plan for Goa 2021 will be notified for public suggestions within six months. They met the Chef Minister at his Margao residence on Saturday morning.
Govt should constitute civil defence panels: Shantaram
PANAJI: Mr Shantaram Naik, Rajya Sabha MP and AICC secretary, who visited Chandor on Saturday to inspect the sites where idols and statues were desecrated recently, said that government should constitute village-wise civil defence committees under Civil Defence Act, 1968.
Sarvadharm Mahabhakti meet at Bethora on April 2
PONDA: The ambassador for world peace, Shree Shree Shree Sadguru Pardeshwar Maharaj of Gayatri Peetha, Talyewada, Bethora, Ponda, on Friday informed that the 20th annual all religion seminar (Annual Sarvadharm Mahabhakti Sammelan) will be held at Bethora Matt, on April 2.
I-League: Ranty stings JCT with brace
MARGAO: Nigerian striker Ranty Martins recorded yet another double as title favourites Dempo Sports Club powered past JCT Mills Phagwara 2-1 in a tense I-League match at the Nehru stadium, Fatorda, here on Saturday.
Knights thump Kings to arrest slump
MOHALI: Manoj Tiwary and Sourav Ganguly hammered blistering half-centuries as Kolkata Knight Riders thumped Kings XI Punjab by 39 runs in their Indian Premier League match here Saturday night.
Symonds sledging sent Yusuf on rampage
AHMEDABAD: Rajasthan Royals batsman Yusuf Pathan has accused Andrew Symonds of sledging him during an Indian Premier League match here and said the Australian’s behaviour made him more determined to go for big shots against Deccan Chargers bowlers here on Friday.
Sesa FA off to winning start
NEW DELHI: Sesa Football Academy started their 2nd Division I-League campaign on a winning note, edging past Delhi league champions Hindustan FC 2-1 in the Group B preliminary round league match played at the Dr Ambedkar Stadium, Delhi.
Chowgule beat Panjim Gymkhana by 147 runs
PANAJI: Chowgule SC defeated hosts Panjim Gymkhana by 147 runs to score a big win in the group ‘B’ league match of the Bandodkar cricket tournament at Panjim Gymkhana grounds, on Saturday.
Iqbal XI in South Zone ‘A’ Division finals
PANAJI: Iqbal XI beat MCC by 5 wickets to move into the finals of South Zone ‘A’ Division cricket tournament, organised by Goa Cricket Association at Dr Rajendra Prasad Stadium , Margao on Saturday.
VM Salgaocar memorial soccer
MAPUSA: Nerul SC and Sangolda Lightning will lock horns in the inaugural fixture of 21st VM Salgaocar memorial trophy organised by Saligao Sporting, from April 4 at Saligao grounds.
Advanced TT coaching camp at DBO
PANAJI: Don Bosco Oratory, Panaji will conduct an advanced coaching camp in table tennis from April 5 to 25. The camp will be conducted by nationally renowned NIS coach N Ravichandran from Tamil Nadu.
NIO beat Stamina by 2 wickets
PANAJI: NIO beat Stamina CC by 2 wickets to move ahead in the ‘C’ Division Tiswadi Zone knock-out cricket tournament organized by GCA at SAG grounds, Campal, here.
FC Siolim enter quarters
MAPUSA: Football Club of Siolim made a bright start to their Calangute Panchayat Cup campaign after they drubbed PVC Parra 3-0 at Poriat grounds, on Saturday.
Day-long music sammelan at Bicholim today
By RAMESH SAVAIKAR | NT NETWORK
Swar Sidhha Sangeet Vidyalaya, Bordem, Bicholim has organised a day-long sangeet sammelan in memory of renowned music artist from Bordem-Bicholim, the late Vinayak Bordekar.
Spirited Away
Film: Hum Tum Aur Ghost
Cast: Arshad Warsi, Dia Mirza, Directed by: Kabeer Kaushik, Duration: 125 mins, Rating: * *
Director Kabeer Kaushik’s debut Seher about the UP mafia was quite a remarkable film and the follow up, Chamku tackled the issue of naxalism.
Baudy Building
Film: Well Done Abba
Cast: Boman Irani, Minnisha Lamba, Directed by: Shyam Benegal, Duration: 144 mins, Rating: * * * 1 / 2
'I loved tiatr because of its connection with the audience'
NT NETWORK
Vijaya Mehta, the name that spells excellence in the world of theatre, believes that in its current phase theatre is scaling down after reaching a saturation point.
Phoolrani, book on gardening, released
NT NETWORK
PANAJI: On Saturday, the Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat released ‘Phoolrani’ a Marathi book on gardening by Ms Amita Nayak Salatri.
Folk Art Festival at KA
NT NETWORK
The Kala Academy, Panaji organised a Folk Art Festival at the open air auditorium recently. Traditional folk dances like ‘talo’, ‘dhalo’, ‘kunbi dance’, ‘morulo’, ‘zaagor’, ‘ghodemodni’ and others were performed by the groups.
Fortune Favours the Foodies
By Odette and Joe Mascarenhas
We happened to get in touch with a chef who we had not seen for many years and like all foodies the topic focused on food.
Masci’s Corner
Piri Piri or Peri Peri : Chef Poornima of Alegria recommends, Peri peri masala is also sometimes known as Piri piri masala. Although the origin of the peri peri masla used by us is traditionally from Portugal, there are many variations.
Fishermen’s dwellings in CRZ to be regularised
Story Summary:
The Union Minister of Environment and Forests, Mr Jairam Ramesh has in a communication to the Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat stated that majority of constructions along the state’s coast were permissible under Coastal Regulation Zone notification, 1991.
Aleixo assures closure of illegal mining ore dumps
Story Summary:
Assuring the House of taking action against the unclaimed mining ore dumps existing in various parts of the state
PANAJI: Assuring the House of taking action against the unclaimed mining ore dumps existing in various parts of the state, which are responsible for environmental pollution in a big way, the Minister for Environment, Mr Aleixo Sequeira on Friday said that the department of environment is powerless in taking action against those polluting the environment through transport of mining produce, as the related powers are delegated to various agencies like the home department, transport department, police and so on.
House approves Goa Commission for SC, ST Bill
PANAJI: The state legislative assembly on Friday approved five bills including the Goa Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Bill, 2010, aimed at setting up the commission to safeguard the interests of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in the state.
CM assures panel to go into hill cutting aspects
PANAJI: The Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat, in a reply to a Calling Attention Motion as regards fear and anxiety in the minds of the people pertaining to the hill cutting at Consua, in the village panchayat of Cortalim-Quelossim said that a committee under the
Govt’s reluctance to hand over case to CBI may send wrong signals: BJP
PANAJI: Raising questions over the reluctance of the government in ordering a CBI injury into the alleged Rs 60 crore scam linked to the excise department, the Bharatiya Janata Party on Friday maintained that this stand of the Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat raises serious doubts in the minds of the aam aadmi as to whether Mr Kamat himself is involved in the scam.
Catholics prepare for Holy Week
Story Summary:
The Catholic community across the state are preparing to enter the Holy Week, commemorating the last events of the life of Jesus, which is marked by blessing of palms on Palm Sunday.
PANAJI: The Catholic community across the state are preparing to enter the Holy Week, commemorating the last events of the life of Jesus, which is marked by blessing of palms on Palm Sunday.
Members urged to send proposals to committee
PANAJI: The Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat has said that decision on naming institutions after the first chief minister of Goa, Dayanand Bandodkar, would be taken by the centenary celebrations committee and urged the members of the assembly to send the proposals for naming the institutions to the committee.
Churchill assures adequate water to North Goa by June
PANAJI: The Minister for Public Works Department, Mr Churchill Alemao replying to a Zero Hour mention about the acute water shortage at Mapusa, including its low lying areas; entire Porvorim township as well as rest of the North Goa, in general said that efforts are being made to increase the water supply to the North Goa district, and adequate potable water would be made available to the people from the region by June 2010.
Mapusa district hospital to be operational in 6 months: Vishwajeet
PANAJI; The Health Minister, Mr Vishwajeet Rane on Friday assured the House that the North Goa district hospital at Mapusa would be put up in running condition, within six months after the appointment of the consultant to do so.
Parrikar assures to take up matter in Assembly
PANAJI: The indefinite hunger strike by the 74 daily wage/contract workers of the malaria diseases control programme, who are protesting their termination of their services, entered its 7th day on Friday, which also saw the BJP leaders, pledging their support to these workers.
Aquem-Baixo VP sore over not being taken into confidence
MARGAO: The Aquem-Baixo panchayat, in a letter to the executive engineer of the PWD, Works Division VI, has alleged that the panchayat was not taken into confidence inspite of filing its objection to the alignment of the proposed Dongorim-Firgulem bridge.
Majorda shack NOC revoked
MARGAO: The director of tourism, Mr Swapnil M Naik, on Thursday revoked the No Objection Certificate granted to erect a shack at Majorda, allegedly located in the ‘No Development Zone’ following a complaint by Mr Aleixo Arnolfo Pereira from Utorda-Majorda village.
Dempo look to consolidate
MARGAO: Title aspirants Dempo Sports Club will be aiming to consolidate their position at the top but JCT Mills Phagwara could prove to be a tricky opposition as the two former champions clash in an intriguing 18th round I-League match at the Nehru stadium, Fatorda Saturday evening.
Dempo register second win
PANAJI: Dempo Sports Club on Thursday beat Salgaocar by 2 wickets to record their second win in as many matches in the Panjim Gymkhana organised Bandodkar League cricket tournament being played at Gymkhana ground, Campal, here.
Mohun Bagan face Lajong
KOLKATA: Things are not going according to plan for Mohun Bagan coach Satyajit Chatterjee.
The last year’s runners-up were unbeaten under the new coach who replaced Moroccan Karim Bencherifa and started his stint with a bang after thrashing Chirag United.
Ambelim face Navelim in Odxel Cup fianals
PANAJI: Ambelim Sports Club will take on defending champions Navelim Village Union in the finals of second edition of Odxel Cup inter-village football tournament played at Dr Alvares Remego Pinto ground, Taleigao.
Anjuna Gymkhana advance
MAPUSA: Anjuna Gymkhana breezed into the next round of the Calangute Panchayat Cup organised by Calangute Association, after a resounding 4-1 win over Sangolda Lightning at Poriat grounds on Friday.
Candolim, Nagoa in summit clash
MAPUSA: Candolim Sports Club set up a clash with Nagoa Sports Club in the finals of the 6th Rajasthan Marbles Trophy after an impressive 3-0 win over SAI Avtar, Anjuna.
US-Pak Policy: Disturbing Signs
By INDER MALHOTRA
Attracting People to Farms
IT is encouraging to see the Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat giving top priority to agriculture in his budget speech and enhancing the budgetary outlay to Rs 46.22 crore for this year from Rs 18.62 crore of the previous financial year, a net increase of 148 per cent.
Muslim OBCs
THE Supreme Court through an interim order, on Thursday, has restored the Andhra Pradesh law providing 4 per cent quota in jobs and educational institutions for ‘backward’ classes among Muslims.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Law versus Morality
I
Budget: Farmers overjoyed, bankers sceptical
PANAJI: While most industries are giving the 2010-2011state budget the ‘thumbs up’, bankers are sceptical. They feel it is not yet clear, firstly by adjusting the income slab on taxes, salaried persons may sees reduced pay. Secondly, the state government has imposed taxes on new property purchases, this will make the cost higher for new property buyers.
‘Service tax on housing complexes needs review’
NEW DELHI: The urban development ministry will soon approach the finance ministry seeking a review of the proposed service tax on housing complexes under construction as it feels levy will hurt the sector, which is yet to recover from the global economic recession.
Govt to introduce new Companies Act soon
MUMBAI: The Union government will shortly introduce a new Companies Act which would ensure greater transparency and accountability in corporate India, a senior central government official said.
IPL bonus recharge from Vodafone
PANAJI: Vodafone Essar has announced an exclusive IPL Bonus Recharge for all Vodafone prepaid customers. IPL Bonus Recharge offers customers full talk-time minus service tax.
Samsung unveils Metro 3G
PANAJI: Samsung Electronics has announced the launch of Metro 3G - its new, stylish Metro phone with an all new metallic exterior offering 3G Connectivity. With the launch, Samsung has five, feature rich Metro Series of mobiles in its line up.
The finer nuances of Theatre
BY CLARA A RODRIGUES
Theatre is a reflection of the ludicrous, insane and incongruous elements of our lives. It is a medium of expressive communication that is cathartic and gives a clearer vision of misty life.
Folk Art Festival at KA
The Kala Academy, Panaji organised a Folk Art Festival at the open air auditorium recently. Traditional folk dances like ‘talo’, ‘dhalo’, ‘kunbi dance’, ‘morulo’, ‘zaagor’, ‘ghodemodni’ and others were performed by the groups.
St Michael’s Church resounds to the notes of Marouan Benabdallah
BY NADIA D”SILVA
Hungarian pianist, Marouan Benabdallah’s piano recital at St Michael’s Church Taleigao left classical music enthusiasts in a state of utter rapture so much so that the applause continued resounding in the interiors of the quaint church long after the young pianist ceased running his fingers across the length of the gleaming instrument.
Switch off lights for a brighter future
BY ARTI DAS
Today, March 27 is a day where you get a chance to join in the largest annual global campaign by observing the earth hour.All you need to do is switching off all lights for one hour in order to create awareness about climate change that is becoming a harsh reality.
Newer Trends in the treatment of Heart Attack
Dr Uday B Khanolkar/ Dr Biju Ephrem
The treatment of heart attack has evolved over the decades, mirroring the rapid advances in the speciality of cardiology at large.
‘A dialogue with truth’
It was a colleague of artiste, Hanuman Kambli who inspired him to delve on the topic ‘A dialogue with truth’ as a subject for a discussion at Sunapranta Centre of Art, Altinho, recently. The artiste himself got down to explaining, how it all happened.
‘WHEN-ITS’ TASTY VENITES
Which restaurant does one patronize? It all depends on the food. Especially ‘When-it’s’ tasty. Introducing Venite’s…no that would be the wrong word, Venite needs no introduction.
Digambar presents growth-oriented budget
Story Summary:
In an attempt to boost agriculture and attract youth towards the age-old profession of the people of the state CM, announced an hefty increase in the outlay for agriculture in the annual financial statement for the year 2010-11 in the state assembly on Thursday.
PANAJI: In an attempt to boost agriculture and attract youth towards the age-old profession of the people of the state the Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat, announced an hefty increase in the outlay for agriculture in the annual financial statement for the year 2010-11 in the state assembly on Thursday.
Canacona farmers take to water melons
Story Summary:
Following the commissioning of Chapoli dam in Canacona some years back, the command areas at Gulem and Devbhag came under cultivation of crops like paddy, sugarcane, groundnuts and vegetables.
By Albert Fernandes
Budget is growth-oriented: CM
PANAJI: The Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat has said that the budget presented by him in the state assembly on Thursday is growth-oriented budget, that has given more thrust on agriculture and infrastructure development keeping in tune with the central budget.
Funds held up due to delayed submission of plans: CAG
Story Summary:
The Comptroller and Auditor General has said that delay in submission of annual plans resulted in delayed release of funds by the central government aimed at modernizing the state police force.
PANAJI: The Comptroller and Auditor General has said that delay in submission of annual plans resulted in delayed release of funds by the central government aimed at modernizing the state police force.
Excise scam: CM refuses Parrikar’s call for CBI probe
PANAJI: The Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat on Thursday informed the House that the ongoing inquiry into the alleged multi-crore scam related to the excise department as carried out by the Finance Secretary, Mr Udipta Ray has collected various documents from the excise commissioner and are presently under scrutiny.
Space allotment not done as per GSIDC recommendation: Joaquim
PANAJI: The Minister for Urban Development, Mr Joaquim Alemao said that most of the vendors/ shopkeepers shifted to the new municipal market complex in Panaji are as per the list prepared by the Goa State Infrastructure Development Corporation; however, allotment of all spaces are not exactly as determined by the GSIDC, that is there is change of places of vendors from the designated places to alternate space.
House demands handing over drug dealer-police nexus case to CBI
PANAJI: The members of the Goa State Legislative Assembly called for handing over the case relating to drug and the involvement of police personnel in it to the Central Bureau of Investigation for an impartial inquiry.
PMC passes Rs 15.39 cr deficit budget
PONDA: In a special meeting held at the council hall, the Ponda Municipal Council on Thursday, passed a deficit budget of Rs 15.39 crore, for the financial year 2010-2011.
Absconding cop applies for anticipatory bail
PANAJI: Sanjay Kashinath Parab has moved an application for anticipatory bail, before the High Court of Bombay at Goa, apprehending arrest in connection with the FIR filed by the Deputy Superintendent of Police, Crime on the basis of a YouTube clipping showing alleged drug dealings. The matter has been fixed for hearing on March 26.
BJP will not support G7 moves, says Shripad
MARGAO: The BJP MP, Mr Shripad Naik refuted that the BJP would support the moves of the G 7, or were in any way connected with them , even as the GPCC chief, Mr Subash Shirodkar categorically denied that there were chances that the state would go for mid-term polls.
MMC chairperson inspects Sonsodo garbage dump site
MARGAO: Thursday was the day of the second joint inspection of Sonsoddo, to check on the progress of work, as announced by the Chief Minister earlier this month, however, this time, unlike last time, the inspection was carried out by the chairperson of the MMC on his own.
Two temples, one ghumti burgled in Canacona
CANACONA: Two temples, situated on a hill on the National Highway 17, at Gulem-Karmalghat section at Canacona, were burgled and vandalised by some unknown miscreants sometime on Wednesday night.
Five-star Chelsea revive Premier League title bid
PORTSMOUTH: France midfielder Florent Malouda escaped what seemed a certain red card to score twice as Chelsea got their Premier League title bid back on track with a resounding 5-0 win at bottom club Portsmouth on Wednesday.
Goa Police secure maiden win
MAPUSA: Goa Police Sports Club edged out Bardez zone mates St Savio Sports Club, Calangute 2-1, to register their first win of the GFA’s Second Division Inter-Zonal play-offs, at Duler stadium, here on Thursday.
UC Nerul oust Saligao
MAPUSA: United Club Nerul secured their place in the next round of Calangute Panchayat Cup, organised by Calangute Association after they got the better of Saligao Sporting Club 5-4 via sudden death, at Poriat grounds here on Thursday.
Kinesis to set up tennis academy at Mira Mar
PANAJI: In a few days time, it will be time to put away those books, forget about report cards and look forward to the long days of summer vacation. It will be time for parents to look around for summer camps and other activities where their children can pick up a new skill while keeping fit both in mind and body while not forgetting having some fun.
Industry hails progressive budget
PANAJI: Goa industry has hailed the state budget announced by the Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat as a `progressive budget’. Raising the medical insurance for Goan up to Rs 60,000 is too good to be true, said Mr Raj Vaidya of Hindu Pharmacy.
Up market and seasonal: Different cuisines to tempt your palate
Tasting a dream: A Reverie
DLF bets big on Dabolim project
PANAJI: DLF is investing in a big way in Goa - Rs 120 crore in housing project in Dabolim and has purchased 19 square metre of land in Panaji’s prime area Patto Plaza at Rs 15,000 per square metre.
VIP store opens in Margao
PANAJI: VIP Industries, the largest luggage manufacturer in Asia and leading manufacturer of premium-quality luggage, on Thursday inaugurated its exclusive store at Margao at the hands of the general manager, trade sale of VIP Industries Limited, Mr Indranil Roy.
Unfulfilled Promises to the Poor
BY P RAMAN
HOW swiftly is the power equation changing in Delhi. It was only a few weeks back that the Congress establishment seemed asserting its authority to rein in the UPA government on issues like Sharm-el-Sheikh joint statement and uncontrolled price rise.
Kolkata’s Shame
THE Park Street blaze, on Tuesday, at the 150-year-old heritage building Stephen Court in which 24 people were charred alive is the third big fire in Kolkata in the last two years.
US Doublespeak
THE Obama administration assures India no threat from a Pakistan-US civilian nuclear deal similar to the Indo-US deal. But it is the Obama administration and particularly his Secretary of State, Ms Hillary Clinton who are responsible for giving rise to this suspicion in Indian minds.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
For Green Goa
RESPONDING to the latest call of the bugle sounded by the Goa Bachhao Abhiyan, the allied local brigades of each village, armed with protest slogans and black flags, chanting patriotic rhymes, stormed the head office of the Town and Country Planning Department.
Audio Reviews
by J P Pereira
Billy Vaughn
In the good old days of the radio, Billy Vaughn was a favourite. On every programme of western music broadcast, the All india Radio, Panaji always played at least one track of this great musician. In the later years, try as you might, there were no recordings from this musician available at the music shops.
Trilogy at KA
The Kala Academy will host a festival of three Hindi plays at the DMK hall of Kala Academy at 6.30 p.m today. The plays enacted by Kala Academy’s Rangamel group, will present a reflection of society.
WORLD THEATRE DAY
From:
27/03/2010
Vijaya Mehta, eminent theatre personality will grace the occasion of the celebration of World Theatre Day on March 27 at 6.30 p.m. at the Dinanath Mangeshkar Kala Mandir.
A stamp of the ocean
BY ARTI DAS
Mr Ramesh Veluskar, a name synonymous with Goa’s literary world, has added another feather to his hat – his latest book of Hindi poems titled, ‘Samudramudrika’.
Its summer time… Its water sports time
BY CLARA A RODRIGUES
There was a time when Goans simply loved their beaches where they went to relax and unwind with their families. But bronzing themselves on the beaches no longer holds the same appeal to the Goans as it used to decades ago. There has been a shift in their outlook.
Expedition to Malvan
BY PRATIMA ACHREKAR
Gone are the days when people would while their time away at home. The new generation seeks adventure and embraces the need to explore the world.
Churchill Bros stun Yemen’s Al Hilal 2-1
SANA’A: A goal in each half steered India’s champion club Churchill Brothers to a 2-1 away win against Yemen’s Al Hilal in their second Group B match of this year’s AFC Cup at Ali Mohsin Al Muraisi Stadium, here on Wednesday.
Govt depts to be hit as 70% staff told to attend census duty
Story Summary:
The state administration would be "paralysed" over the next six to seven weeks as most of the staff of the government departments as well as government schools would be on duty for the census survey and revision of the electoral rolls.
State budget today
Story Summary:
The Chief Minister, would present the budget for the state for the financial year 2010-11 in the state assembly on Thursday afternoon.
PANAJI: The Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat would present the budget for the state for the financial year 2010-11 in the state assembly on Thursday afternoon. The budget session of the state assembly began on Monday with the customary address by the Governor, Dr Shivinder Singh Sidhu.
Tea mosquito bug affects cashew yield in Pernem
Story Summary:
The cashew crop in Pernem taluka has come under the grip of tea mosquito, an insect which has affected the cashew yield and the farmers have now raised concern over a huge loss in yield.
BY BHIVA P PARAB
PERNEM: The cashew crop in Pernem taluka has come under the grip of tea mosquito, an insect which has affected the cashew yield and the farmers have now raised concern over a huge loss in yield.
Phyan cyclone caused Rs 9.8 lakh losses: Philip
PANAJI: Stating that the Phyan cyclone that hit off the Goan coast, last year was responsible for losses amounting to Rs 9.81 lakh - Rs 2.29 lakh in North Goa and Rs 7.52 in South Goa, the Minister for Revenue, Mr Jose Philip D’Souza, said that the government has already taken steps/ measures to overcome the problems during natural calamities in the future.
Reginaldo for drug dealer, police nexus case handed over to CBI
MARGAO: The Curtorim MLA, Mr Reginald Lourenco wants the ongoing investigation case of alleged nexus between the drug mafia and the police be handed over to the CBI or some other reputed investigating agency "in the interest of saving the future generation of Goa."
CCP not aware of haphazard garbage dumping: Pacheco
PANAJI: The Minister for Tourism, Mr Francisco Xavier Pacheco on Tuesday informed the House in a written reply that the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) is not aware of haphazard dumping of garbage generated in the off-shore casinos, at its sites, by various garbage collecting agencies.
Consua resident complaints against hill cutting
VASCO: With the cases of illegal hill cutting on the rise in the Mormugao taluka, a resident of Consua, Cortalim has lodged a complaint with the deputy collector and sub-divisional magistrate, Mormugao alleging that a hill is being cut illegally at Consua in the village of Cortalim.
Multiple problems push mangoes out of reach of common man
Michael Fisher
PANAJI: Mangoes which was once a fast moving product is not so today thanks to their high prices, and poor quality.
No breakthrough in Chandor vandalism case
MARGAO: The Maina-Curtorim police, on Wednesday informed that there has been no breakthrough in connection with the case of statues and crosses that were vandalised outside the Church of Our Lady of Bethlehem.(Nossa Senhora de Belem), at Chandor.
CMC seals illegal structure in Canacona
CANACONA: In an attempt to crack down on illegal structures and constructions in the CRZ, the Canacona Municipal Council (CMC), on Wednesday, sealed one illegal construction at Sawantwada, Canacona, after it was issued show cause and final notices.
DRAG demands justice for disabled
PANAJI: Mr Avelino de Sa, the president of Disability Rights Association of Goa (DRAG), has served a 15-day ultimatum to the various departments, to give justice to the disabled persons.
Patnekar urges Bicholim residents to protest ore transportation
BICHOLIM: The president of Dicholi Nagrik Kriti Samiti (DNKS) and MLA of Bicholim, Mr Rajesh Patnekar has urged the residents of Bicholim and surrounding to participate in the agitation launched by DNKS against the ore transportation on Bicholim-Sanquelim highway.
Chhetri set to sign contract with Kansas City Wizards
NEW DELHI: India international striker Sunil Chhetri is all set to sign a contract with Major League Soccer side Kansas City Wizards in next couple of days ahead of the MLS season.
Wolves claim important win
LONDON: Wolves took a huge step towards securing their Premier League status with a 3-1 win away to fellow strugglers West Ham at Upton Park on Tuesday.
Navelim VU, Ambelim in semis
Navelim Village Union beat Paradise Sports Club 4-1 to enter the semi-finals of 2nd all Goa inter-village football tournament, organised by Odxel Sports, Taleigao at Dr Remegio Pinto grounds, Taleigao.
UPA’s Second Great Nuclear Folly
BY PRAFUL BIDWAI
ANY Indian governments have recently pushed some anti-democratic or unconscionable law or policy. In 1984-85, Rajiv Gandhi blundered on the Shah Bano case and opened the Babri Masjid’s gates to Hindu communalists, eventually catapulting them into power. In 1998, the BJP conducted nuclear tests and tried to rewrite the Constitution.
No Compulsion in Islam
THE chairman of the National Minorities Commission, Mr M S Qureshi is doing neither India nor Islam proud by demanding a review of the Centre’s decision to allow Taslima Nasreen, the internationally acclaimed novelist from Bangladesh, to stay on in this country.
Low Inspiration
OA’S Economic Survey 2009-10 presents a woeful picture of agriculture in the state. The section on ‘Agriculture and Allied Activities’ opens with a distressful sentence, "Goa is passing through a difficult phase in agriculture."
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Moral Policing must Stop
THE comment by the Supreme Court of India on premarital sex and live-in relationships will rein in the self-appointed guardians of public morality. Boys and girls have been assaulted and/or handed over to the police on account of their so-called indecent behaviour.
Khalap urges distributors to be sincere
MAPUSA: The chairman of the State Law Commission, Mr Ramakant Khalap has urged distributors to supply quality goods to customers and refrain from indulging in unethical trading as that would only hamper the prospects of doing good business.
Petrol price may rise in big cities with Euro-IV launch
NEW DELHI: Petrol price in cities like Delhi and Mumbai may go up by Rs 0.41 per litre and diesel by Rs 0.26 a litre from April one when cleaner Euro-IV grade auto fuel will replace the existing grade in 13 big cities, Oil Secretary, Mr S Sundareshan said on Wednesday.
Goa Urban staff to strike indefinitely
PANAJI: Goa Urban Co-operative Bank Employees Union and Goa Urban Co-operative Bank Officers Association have decided to go on an indefinite strike with effect from March 29 to protest against the delay on the part of Goa Urban Co-operative Bank to settle charter of demands pending since 2003.
10% service tax on air travel to stay
NEW DELHI: The Budget proposal to charge 10 per cent service tax on air travel may not be rolled back, as the government expects to raise between Rs 600 and Rs 1,000 crore annually through the measure.
Passion of the Christ at Santa Cruz
BY CLARA A RODRIGUES
The villagers of Santa Cruz have come together to stage a mammoth passion play.
Passion plays are commonly performed during Lent, which is the time we contemplate the sufferings Jesus underwent to save us from sin. Commercial tiatr troupes mostly put up Lenten plays during this time. It is quite rare now to see a play being planned and executed at a village level.
Passion of the Christ at Santa Cruz
BY CLARA A RODRIGUES
The villagers of Santa Cruz have come together to stage a mammoth passion play.
Passion plays are commonly performed during Lent, which is the time we contemplate the sufferings Jesus underwent to save us from sin. Commercial tiatr troupes mostly put up Lenten plays during this time. It is quite rare now to see a play being planned and executed at a village level.
Goa Chitra’s Jazz and Visual Show Enthralls a Packed Audience
A programme aptly titled “Come to Your Senses” was held at the Goa Chitra museum at Benaulim. This show forms part of Goa Chitra’s ongoing series to showcase Goa’s brilliant artistes and raise funds for the museum.
Chaitri utsav celebrated at Sanquelim
By RAMESH SAVAIKAR
The Pandurang temple of Vithalapur-Sanquelim, which celebrated 500 years of its existence three years ago, is known as the Pandharpur of Goa. The idols of Vithal and Rakhumai were brought to Goa from Pandharpur some 500 years ago by devotees (varkari).
Problems with Learning Disabilities
By Amita Quenim
Some talk well, some write well, some sing well and so on. Some have a combination of two talents and some have more. The question is how does one categorise? Would it be fair to call some one intelligent only because he writes well, or has the capacity to memorise and recall in writing where he can score cent percent.
Now beat stress at its source - the workplace!
By Anand Ayyangar
Transcendental Meditation of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi is making waves among the busy new-age Indian as a means of achieving a great work and personal life balance.
Fortune Favours the Foodies
By Odette and Joe Mascarenhas
We happened to get in touch with a chef who we had not seen for many years and like all foodies the topic focused on food. ‘Well Goa has many good food outlets,’ I commented sagely, ‘you name the cuisine we have it.’
Govt to check royalty on mining exports: CM
Story Summary:
Quoting the government figures as regards the difference between the mining production and the mining exports from the state having gone up from...
PANAJI: Quoting the government figures as regards the difference between the mining production and the mining exports from the state having gone up from ½ per cent to 8 per cent to 17 per cent during last three years, the Leader of the Opposition, Mr Manohar Parrikar on Tuesday
Govt schemes not reaching common man, claims Oppn
Story Summary:
The members of the House, particularly from the opposition, said that many schemes of the government were either non-functional or their...
PANAJI: The members of the House, particularly from the opposition, said that many schemes of the government were either non-functional or their benefits were not reaching the ‘aam admi,’ to whom they were intended, even as they said that the government has failed to keep its promises made to people during the last budget presentation.
British fugitive Kaushal dies in judicial custody
VASCO/PANAJI: The British fugitive, Ajay Kaushal, wanted in Britain in a case of assault and abduction of a businessman, and placed in judicial custody in Sub-Jail at Headland-Sada in Vasco, died a mysterious death in the wee hours of Tuesday.
US does flip-flop on access to Headley
NEW DELHI: Amid reports of India sending a team of investigators to quiz David Coleman Headley, the US on Tuesday appeared to signal a change in stance over giving New Delhi direct access to the Pakistani-American terror suspect, saying no decision has been taken on the issue.
Pre-marital sex not an offence: SC
NEW DELHI: In an observation that will cheer votaries of pre-marital sex and live-in-partners, the Supreme Court on Tuesday opined that a man and woman living together without marriage cannot be construed as an offence.
SC/ST Bill introduced in House
PANAJI: The government on Tuesday introduced the Goa Commission for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes Bill, 2010, aimed at setting up the commission to safeguard the interests of the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in the state and matters connected therewith.
Govt will attempt to save houses while broadening NH4A: CM
PANAJI: The Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat has said that the broadening of the roads was required for posterity and that the state government would ensure that maximum number of houses would be saved while the broadening of the National Highway 4A was undertaken.
Goa has tremendous potential to be leading state: economic survey
PANAJI: The Economic Survey 2009-10 underlines that the state economy is evenly poised and Goa holds tremendous potential to be one of the leading states in the country aiming for achieving higher standards of socio-economic development.
6 hurt as bus, tanker collide at Priol
Story Summary:
Six persons were injured, including the two drivers, when a staff bus crashed into an oncoming oil carrying tanker at Konnem, Priol, on Tuesday evening.
PONDA: Six persons were injured, including the two drivers, when a staff bus crashed into an oncoming oil carrying tanker at Konnem, Priol, on Tuesday evening.
Curti-Khandepar deputy sarpanch ousted
PONDA: The no confidence motion moved by the six panchas of the village panchayat of Curti-Khandepar, against the deputy sarpanch, Ms Anita Naik, was passed by 6-0 votes in a special meeting held on Tuesday at the panchayat office, informed the block development officer, Mr Arvin Kuttkar.
Tourism board not required: Pacheco
PANAJI: The Minister for Tourism, Mr Francisco Xavier Pacheco on Tuesday informed the House in a written reply to the unstarred question that the recommendation of the Tourism Master Plan as regards formation of a State Tourism Board could not be accepted for Goa being a small state and the scope for tourism development was limited.
Vasco BJP launches signature campaign against price rise
VASCO: The Vasco Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Monday launched a signature campaign against increasing prices of essential commodities during a public meeting convened in this regard, at New Vaddem bus stand, Vasco.
Churchill seek win in Yemen
PANAJI: Churchill Brothers will take on Al Hilal in their second Group B AFC Cup encounter on Wednesday. The national champions are in an unfamiliar territory and face the Yemeni club away at the Ali Mohsen Al-Muraisi Stadium in Yemen.
Uthappa stars in Bangalore’s win
BANGALORE: Robin Uthappa cracked a dazzling half-century, while R Vinay Kumar scalped four wickets to help Royal Challengers Bangalore beat Chennai Super Kings by 36 runs in their Indian Premier League match here on Tuesday night.
E Bengal face Al Qadsia
KOLKATA: Virtually out of the AFC Cup contest after being beaten twice, home and away, East Bengal’s third encounter against Al Qadsia of Kuwait in Group D at Yuba Bharati Krirangan on Wednesday is now a formality to complete the Asian circuit engagement for being Federation Cup winners in India
Nagoa halt Milagres run, enter finals
MAPUSA: Milagres Sports Club’s fine run in the 6th Rajasthan Marbles Soccer, organised by Saligao United, came to an end as they went down fighting 2-1 to Nagoa Sports Club in the semi-finals played at Dr Gustavo Monteiro grounds, Candolim, on Tuesday.
Aussies thrash NZ by 10 wickets
WELLINGTON: Brendon McCullum’s dogged century could only delay the inevitable as Australia cruised to a convincing 10-wicket win in the first Test against New Zealand in Wellington on Tuesday.
Serie A title down to a 3-way fight
ROME: All of a sudden there’s a three-way fight for the Serie A title. AC Milan trail leaders Inter Milan by just one point and AS Roma are only four points back. With nine rounds remaining, it hasn’t been this close in the Italian league in
eight years.
Messi reaches for the heights
PARIS: The word from a rehabilitation centre in the south of France is that Arsenal’s injured central defender William Gallas is on the mend. The bad news is that even if Arsenal could field 11 players as solid defensively as Gallas, it probably still wouldn’t be enough to dim the brilliance of Lionel Messi.
Nadal says he still admires Tiger Woods
MADRID: Rafael Nadal still admires scandal-hit golfer Tiger Woods and believes the media were wrong to publish details of the American world number one’s private life.
PM for doubling infra investment
NEW DELHI: Aiming at an annual 10 per cent growth, the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh on Tuesday said investment in infrastructure sector should be doubled to an ambitious $1 trillion (Rs 41 lakh crore) during the 12th Five Year Plan ending 2017 from the current level.
Govt okays investment of private players in long-term infra bonds
NEW DELHI: The Union government on Tuesday said that the private sector will be allowed to raise resources by issuing long-term infrastructure bonds carrying tax benefits.
Markets edge up 40 pts
MUMBAI: Stock market bellwether Sensex on Tuesday advanced 40 points after an erratic session that saw investors selling shares at the day’s higher levels ahead of Wednesday’s festival holiday. Interest in Reliance Industries also helped the market advance.
RCom reaches 100 mn wireless customers
PANAJI: Reliance Communications on Friday announced having crossed the landmark 100 million wireless customers, making it the 2nd largest wireless operator in the country to achieve this milestone.
Goa Trade Fair ends today
PANAJI: Goa Trade Fair, the lifestyle shopping exhibition currently underway at Campal grounds, Panaji ends on Wednesday. The exhibition is open from 10.30 a.m. till 9 p.m.
BSNL staff on indefinite strike from April 20
NEW DELHI: Telecom services of Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) will be affected from April 20 as 300,000 of its employees, including executives, have decided to go on an indefinite strike in protest against divestment in the state-run company.
Banking and financial sector oriented MF schemes
by Tensing Rodrigues
CORRIGENDUM: At the very outset let me correct the blunder I committed last Thursday in my answer to the query on Capital Gains. The opening sentence of the fourth para read “This logic is valid for assets sold up to March 31, 2010. From April 1, 2010,
Women Reservations can Wait
BY KULDIP NAYAR
JIHAD has different meanings. Islamist terrorists have one. Leaders of Other Backward Classes (OBC) in India have another. The latter have used the word, jihad, to raise the standard of revolt against the government headed by the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh.
CBI Fails Again
THE murder of Satyendra Dubey showed how insecure and vulnerable honest men in the system are. Dubey, an engineer with the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), was killed on November 27, 2003
Unsafe Roads
THE figures are very disturbing: 74 persons were killed in 75 days in fatal accidents in Goa. The figures strongly reinforce the fact that the government has not woken up to its social responsibility and ensured enforcement of the road safety provisions strictly.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Maintain Uniformity of Rumblers
OUTSIDE the St Cruz High School, there are two sets of rumblers on the narrow stretch of road. The rumblers, however, do not seem to serve much purpose as most drivers, proceeding either towards or from St Cruz Church, do not maintain the mandatory ‘keep left’.
Governor positive about economy’s decent growth
Story Summary:
The Governor, Dr Shivinder Singh Sidhu addressing the State Legislative Assembly at Porvorim, on Monday.
PANAJI: The Governor, Dr Shivinder Singh Sidhu has expressed hope that in spite of the global slowdown that affected the country and Goa too, the economy of the state would do well in all the spheres and should achieve a respectable gross state domestic product growth of above 10 per cent at constant prices.
Karapur bar brawl spills onto streets, 7 arrested
Story Summary:
Unknown miscreants set ablaze one shop and four gaddas near the KTC bus stand at Sanquelim on Sunday night,
BICHOLIM: Unknown miscreants set ablaze one shop and four gaddas near the KTC bus stand at Sanquelim on Sunday night, in what is seen as a result of a suspected fight between two groups, one from Kudnem and the other from Sanquelim.
House decides to defer 3 important Bills
Story Summary:
The state Legislative Assembly, which began on March 21 has decided to defer three important but controversial Bills – Goa Police Bill 2008
PANAJI: The state Legislative Assembly, which began on March 21 has decided to defer three important but controversial Bills – Goa Police Bill 2008, the Goa Tax on Profession Trade Callings and Employment Bill, 2009 and the Goa Panchayat Raj (Amendment) Bill, 2009 – to its next session.
Govt will work out modalities for aid to Goan pilot’s family: CM
PANAJI: The Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat on Monday said that the government would work out some method to extend assistance to the family of the Goan pilot, Wing Commander Oswald de Abreu, who died in a tragic on-duty accident while flying Indian Air Force MIG-27 aircraft, near Hashimara in West Bengal, last month, while the Sports Minister,
BJP begins signature campaign against price rise in S Goa
MARGAO: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), as part of its nationwide agitation against the price rise, began its signature campaign in South Goa on Monday.
No boost to infrastructure development in villages
PANAJI: Even as the government has collected around Rs 11 crore during the last quarter ending December 31 as infrastructure tax, infrastructure development especially in the villages across the state has been ignored.
Sharp rise in accidents a cause of concern
MARGAO: Some roads in Salcete taluka have become virtual death traps as more and more accidents are taking place than ever before particularly on highways inspite of sustained campaigns for road safety.
HC hears John’s bail hearing
PANAJI: John Fernandes has approached the High Court of Bombay at Goa for bail in the alleged Russian rape case. The matter came up for hearing on Monday, before the single judge Mr Justice N A Britto.
Foundation stone laid for Fr Agnel Central School
PILAR: The foundation stone was laid for the extension work of Fr Agnel Central School at Kanttiabhatt, Pilar, by the MLA of St Andre constituency, Mr Francisco Silveira. It was blessed by the superior general of the Society of Pilar, Fr Tony Lopes.
Khandola residents complain of illegal sand extraction
PONDA: After illegal hill-cutting complaints, now there are complaints of illegal extraction of sand at Jaidwadda, Khandola, some 21 kms from Ponda.
Mahindra hold Viva Kerala
KOZHIKODE: An 86th minute goal by Mahindra United defender Lamine Tamba helped the Jeepmen to snatch a point against Viva Kerala during a 1-1 draw in a round 17 tie of ONGC I-League played at the EMS Stadium, Calicut here on Monday.
Remy brace lifts Cavelossim
MAPUSA: A fine brace from veteran medio Remy Colaco enabled St Cruz Sports Club, Cavelossim to record a facile 3-2 win over Goa Police Sports Club in the first round match of the GFA’s Second Division inter-zonal play-offs played at Duler grounds, here on Monday.
Mokhard Saraswat Sangh win cricket title
POINGUINNIM: Mok-hard Saraswat Sangh, Mokhard, Canacona emerged winners in the First Premier League Cricket tournament, organized by Canacona Saraswat Samaj, as part of Silver Jubilee celebrations, at Sadolxem grounds, on Sunday.
Saligao United, Odxel SC move ahead
PANAJI: Saligao United beat St Sebastian St Cruz 1-0 in the inaugural match of 2nd all Goa inter-village football tournament, organised by Odxel Sports Club,
Boutique Sol offers 5-star ambience
PANAJI: Amid the hype of beach hotels `here’ and five star city properties `there’, the newly built - The Sol boutique hotel ensconced on the banks of the Sinqurium River of lush green Nerul is offering customers five star ambience, so serene and cool.
Govt may raise natural gas price: Sundareshan
NEW DELHI: Petroleum Secretary S Sundareshan today said the government may shortly hike price of natural gas produced by Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and Oil India Ltd (OIL) by 30 per cent.
Digitalgoa breaks news
PANAJI: Just re-launched Goa centric portal and search engine – www.digitalgoa.com has attained distinction of becoming the first website to publish Goa breaking news and all major news stories of Goa instantly thereby filling the long pending void in the cyber world, said a press
release.
Dilemma of Power Generation in NE
BY SANCHET BARUA
HE Planning Commission has identified Northeast India as ‘future powerhouse’ and 168 large hydroelectric projects, having a capacity of 63,328 megawatt, have been proposed in the region.
Absence of Modi
THE Gujarat Chief Minister, Mr Narendra Modi refused to respond to the summons of the Special Investigation Team and nor did he appear before it on March 21 for questioning by the SIT based on the FIR filed by Ms Zakia Jafri, the widow of Ehsan Jafri, Congress MP who died in the post-Godhra riots.
Muslims and Police
Muslims and Police
FIVE years after the framing of the Communal Violence Bill, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board at its 21st annual convention held in Lucknow on March 21 has come out with a declaration demanding scrapping of the bill on the plea that it "would in effect curb the civic rights of the minorities" as unbridled authority has been granted to the police and administrative officers.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Reconciliation Day
All the trappings of an ideal getaway
By Nadia D'Silva
The weekend witnessed the sedate but elegant launch of the much-awaited designer luxury boutique ‘The Sol’ located in the recesses of the scenic villageof Nerul.
Fashion on Five Continents
By Nadia D’Silva
The Department of Garment Technology, Government Polytechnic, Panaji, in association with the KalaAcademypresented a unique fashion show in the hope of encouraging and lending wings to young Goan designers to prove their mettle and excel in the mercilessly demanding fashion industry.
DVD of documentary on Shri Navdurga of Bori released
A DVD titled ‘Shri Navdurga Darshan’ was released in a grand function on March 21 in the Narayandev hall of Shri Navdurga temple at Bori. The function was graced by MP, North Goa, Mr Shripad Naik, MLA of Curchorem, Mr Shyam Gopinath Satradekar, Sarpanch of Bori, Mr Sunil Savkar, member of Zilla Panchayat, Ms Sheila Damodar Borkar and historian, Mr Rohit Phalgaonkar.
GET to make quality education available to Goans
BY ARTI DAS
The Goa Education Trust (GET), initiated by two major industrial groups - The Dempo Group and the Fomento Group - under their Corporate Social Responsibility was officially registered yesterday.
Concerns about freshwater resources in Goa
Dr. A.G. Chachadi, Associate Professor, Goa University
CELEBRATING WATER DAY
By S.T. Nadkarni, M.E.(Hyd), D.A.M., LL.B.,C.E.S.,C.I.C.
Water is life. it is a precious natural resource so vital for sustaining life on the earth. Mankind has been using water since its appearance on earth. civilizations grew in the proximity of water. ¾ Of the earth is covered with water.
Love, lies and twists
Theatre returns to Goa in ‘Love, Lies and Deceit’ and that too with an impressive star-studded cast featuring India's first Big Boss Rahul Roy, the sizzling Poonam Dasgupta, Raj Premji, Amit Pachori, choreographer, Kaanu Mukherjee and India's first transvestite, Zaraa Ishnava.
Goan homes through the artistic prism
BY CLARA A RODRIGUES
An important part of the Goan heritage has always been its houses. Two distinct images appear when we talk of Goan houses - the pre-Portuguese houses and the houses that were the result of a fusion of two schools of architecture namely the Indian and the Portuguese.
Renowned pianist, Marouan Benabdallah to perform at Taleigao
As part of its next cultural activity Alliance Francaise, Panaji is organising a piano recital by renowned pianist, Marouan Benabdallah on March 24 at 6.30 p.m. at St Michaels Church, Taleigao.
A ‘Fat’ Greek repast
By Odette and Joe Mascarenhas
What surprise does one have in store for one’s husband after celebrating 29 valentines together? Roses…cards…gifts?
Potato Chops
By LorraineLopes
Ingredients:2 ¼ cups potatoes, boiled and mashed with salt, 250g mince, 4 large onions, chopped finely, 2 green chillies - chopped finely, 6 garlic cloves - chopped finely, 1" fresh ginger - chopped finely, 2 tbs fresh cilantro - chopped finely, 1 tbs fresh mint - chopped finely, juice of one lime, oil, breadcrumbs, 1 egg - beaten lightly, salt and pepper to taste
Keri villagers struggle to earn livelihood
Story Summary:
by ALBERT FERNANDES
Keri is a small hamlet situated on a hillock in Cotigao, Canacona.
by ALBERT FERNANDES
Budget session begins today
Story Summary:
The crucial budget session of the state legislative assembly would start on Monday
PANAJI: The crucial budget session of the state legislative assembly would start on Monday, amidst signs of rapproachement between the Congress and its allies, whose relationship was hit by a series of allegations from both the sides.
Congress, allies strike deal to work together
Story Summary:
With barely twelve hours to go before the beginning of the budget session of the state legislative assembly
PANAJI: With barely twelve hours to go before the beginning of the budget session of the state legislative assembly, the Congress and its allies in the government hammered out a deal in Mumbai after prolonged discussions and decided to work together and ensure passing of the finance bill for the year 2010-11.
Delegation calls on chief town planner over RP 2021
MARGAO: A six member delegation called on the chief town planner, Mr Morad Ahmad recently to follow up on the assurances given by the Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat on March 4 to Goa Bachao Abhiyan (GBA) and village groups.
Quepem civic body to get garbage treatment plant
QUEPEM: The sanction of Rs 1.3 crore for a garbage treatment plant project has seen the Quepem municipal council (QMC) heave a sigh of relief.
Orlim gram sabha seeks VP’s disqualification
MARGAO: The Orlim Ganv Rakhon Manch, in a press note released here, stated that Orlim witnessed a stormy gram sabha on Sunday with members demanding to know why some panch members are always found missing at the gram sabha and monthly meetings.
Colva gram sabha presses for modern health centre
MARGAO: The Colva gram sabha on Sunday announced the setting up of a five-member committee to convince the Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat and the Tourism Minister, Mr Francisco Pacheco to expedite the process of granting a suitable land of at least 600 square meters on the beachside for setting up a ‘modern health centre’ for the village of Colva.
Benaulim gram sabha urges action against illegal vendors
MARGAO: The Benaulim gram sabha members on Sunday urged the panchayat body to take strict action against various hawkers and fruit vendors who do business in the village without any valid licence, informed the sarpanch, Ms Carmeline Fernandes.
Carmona gram sabha okays Rs 72 lakh budget
MARGAO: The Carmona panchayat gram sabha has okayed a budget proposal of Rs 72 lakh for the year 2010-11 at the gram sabha held on Sunday morning.
Casinos see reduced footfalls
PANAJI: The Casino Association of Goa (CAG), which is agitating for a reduction in the entry fees, does not endorse the government view that there has been a 2.5 fold increase in revenues from the casinos due to the increase in entry fee.
Salgaocar go down to Chirag
MARGAO: Salgaocar Sports Club, despite a second half revival, fell short as the local giants went down to Chirag United 2-1 in an absorbing I-League encounter at the Nehru stadium, Fatorda on Sunday.
Air India humble E Bengal
KOLKATA: Victory continued to elude East Bengal as the Kolkata heavyweights suffered a 0-2 loss to Air India in their round 17 ONGC I-League match at Salt Lake Stadium here on Sunday. Kailash Patil and N D Opara scored for the visitors who gave a dominating performance despite missing some key players.
Mahindra eye return to top
CALICUT: Mahindra United will be on tenterhooks to return to the top of the ONGC I-League when they face Viva Kerala on Monday in Round 17 at the EMS Stadium, Calicut.
Karekar, Angle spin Sportsweek to victory
PANAJI: Fine bowling performances by leg-spinner Darshan Karekar (5-22) and veteran off-spinner Hemant Angle (3-28) enabled Sportsweek to register a thrilling 7-run win over La Paz in the A Division League match played at Rajendra Prasad ground, Margao on Sunday.
Ilhas Veterans drub Bardez
PANAJI: Ilhas Veterans defeated Bardez Veterans 3-0 in the inaugural match of All Goa Dempo veterans soccer organised by Goa Veterans Football Club.
PM to chair full Plan panel meet on tomorrow
NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh will chair the full Planning Commission meeting on Tuesday to review the economy in the backdrop of the industry showing strong signs of recovery.
House panel raps AI for employee rationalisation drive
NEW DELHI: A parliamentary committee has criticised the national carrier Air India for focusing more on rationalising manpower costs which is lower than expenses on other heads like fuel and picturing them as "a villain" behind the plight of the airline.
March inflation trend to guide RBI for April policy: CEA
NEW DELHI: Chief economic advisor Mr Kaushik Basu has said the Reserve Bank is likely to assess inflation trends in March before finalising the forthcoming annual monetary policy to be announced on April 20.
Need to be Wary of Angry Voters
BY NANDKUMAR KAMAT
EVERYONE in Goa is raising the question–what happens if the present government is toppled? If the finance bill is not approved by the evening of March 27, then Goa would be plunged into a constitutional crisis once again.
India and Headley
The Union Home Minister, Mr P Chidambaram is optimistic of India getting access to the Pakistani-American terrorist David Coleman Headley after he made the confession to an American court that he planned the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack.
The Bomb Passes
A low-intensity crude bomb was found in a cargo compartment of the Kingfisher flight with 27 passengers on board, which arrived in Thiruvananthapuram from Bengaluru at 8.25 am on March 21.
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
Curbing Malpractices in Schools
Russians helped Goa tourism buck recession: Swapnil
Story Summary:
BY MICHAEL FISHER
Despite the recent appalling media hoopla against Russians, it is the surge of Russian visitors who kept Goa tourism bucking the recession trend in 2009, said a senior Goa tourism official.
BY MICHAEL FISHER | NT NETWORK
PANAJI: Despite the recent appalling media hoopla against Russians, it is the surge of Russian visitors who kept Goa tourism bucking the recession trend in 2009, said a senior Goa tourism official.
Art and Harmony
From:
21/03/2010
BY PRATIMA ACHREKAR
A garden is a planned space, a place you can unwind and relax amidst green cover. However, you can now also enjoy nature with some added colour.
Spiritual Artist
BY NAGUESH RAO SARDESSAI
Art Chamber, Calangute is hosting an exhibition of Sohela Dabiri, a young Iranian woman, exactly on the day, which is incidentally the Equinox, celebrated in Iranas the New Year.
Celebrate Navroz today
BY CLARA A RODRIGUES
The Parsi community which migrated to Indiafrom Iranin the 10thcentury have a rich history and remarkable culture. Incorporating various regional traits, the Parsi have still managed to maintain their exclusive identity.
Think Just Think
By Amita Quenim
Rahul and Tina were playing around at home. Ea