September 2010

Tiatr Review BY J P Pereira

‘Hanv Patki Kiteak?’ 
Samhen Productions have released their latest tiatr ‘Hanv Patki Kiteak?’ Written and directed by Samuel Carvalho, the director delivers yet another tiatr which has a stunning surprise at the end.

Dance, a catalyst for change

Havelock Ellis in his book “Dance is Life” has said, of all the arts, dance is the greatest and the most beautiful because it moves one’s heart because, it is not a reflection of life but life itself.
This is what founder of Nritya Sankul, Sachika Almeida and her senior students believe firmly in.

Sixty, going on sixteen

BY ARTI DAS | NT NETWORK
They may be in the twilight years of their life but no way are they ready to hang up their boots. This Elder’s Day, ‘The Navhind’ Times finds that the word elder is a misnomer for most are as enthusiastic, if not more, than a ‘younger’

Dedicated to the Blessed Joseph Vaz, Patron Saint of Goa

The Parishioners of Carambolim under the leadership of their parish priest are organising an All Goa Night Vigil for peace and communal harmony. The Archbishop, Patriarch Filipe Neri Ferrao has dedicated this year to the patron saint of Goa, Blessed Joseph Vaz with the theme “Juze Vazachi Dekh Gheum-ya Kristi Totvank Sakxi Dium-ya” .

The Great White Hope

By Meher Castelino
For a woman her most prized possession is the little black dress. For men it’s the opposite colour. So it is the simple white shirt that can make that all-important impact as a power shirt that will give the right impression. Not for anything is it known as The Great White Hope of male fashion.

Making music together

BY CLARA A RODRIGUES | NT NETWORK
They talk, they laugh, they sing and they make music together. They are the silver citizens of the amiable senior citizen’s choir. Cheery, hearty and happy-go-lucky, boredom and worry dare not be there to hassle them as they immerse themselves in the endless ocean of music chords.

Food inflation up at 16.44%

NEW DELHI: Food inflation shot past 16 per cent for the week ended September 18, fifth straight week of steady climb, prompting the Union Finance Minister, Mr Pranab Mukherjee to express concern over the rising prices of essentials.

Mukesh tops Forbes list of richest Indians

NEW DELHI: Reliance Industries chairman, Mr Mukesh Ambani has emerged as the richest Indian, with his $27 billion fortune surpassing that of billionaire rivals Mr L N Mittal and Mr Azim Premji, according to Forbes India magazine.

Nooyi is most powerful woman

WASHINGTON: PepsiCo’s India born chairman and CEO, Ms Indra Nooyi is No 1 on Fortune magazine’s US list for the fifth year in a row with Kraft Foods’ Ms Irene Rosenfeld right behind her at No 2.

Goa faces shortage of workers

PANAJI: Despite prevalence of better living standards, Goa is facing an acute shortage of workers. This view was put forth at an interactive open house meet attended by the Labour Secretary, Mr S Kumaraswamy and representatives of Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

SBI, PNB raise fixed deposit rates

MUMBAI: Two major public sector lenders, State Bank of India and Punjab National Bank, on Thursday hiked fixed deposit rates by up to 75 basis points, while PNB also increased its base rate — below which banks can’t lend — to 8.5 per cent.

GU to host ICA conference

PANAJI: The faculty of commerce, Goa University will host the 63rd Annual National Conference of the Indian Commerce Association from October 1-3, according to a press release issued here.

‘Index Trade Fairs 2010’ in Mumbai from October 8-11

MUMBAI : Index Trade Fairs 2010, India’s largest event for the furniture and interiors industry, will be held in Mumbai from October 8-11 at Bandra-Kurla complex, Bandra East, Mumbai, spread over 40,000 square meters, and have more than 700 brands from India, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia, Philippines, Italy and China. 

‘Consumers Shoppee’ opens

Story Summary: 

The Mayor of Panaji, Ms Carolina Po inaugurating the ‘Consumers Shoppee’ at Panaji in presence of the chief guest Father Willy of Don Bosco and others.

PANAJI: The exhibition-cum-sale of appliances, furniture, home décor, fashion products and home products christened ‘Consumers Shoppee’ was inaugurated by the mayor Ms Caroline Po in the presence of Father Willy of Don Bosco High School and others.

Endowment v/s [pure insurance + pure investment] -2

by tensing rodrigues
We saw last Tuesday that we buy insurance to cover two distinct eventualities: providing for the livelihood of the household and ensuring that the saving/investment plan continues, so that the targeted amount becomes available at the desired point of time.

Open Letter to Suresh Kalmadi

by Rajdeep Sardesai
DEAR Mr Kalmadi,
It’s good to see the smile back on your face just ahead of India’s biggest sporting spectacle. Must admit a lesser man would have been beaten a long time ago. Through all the criticism you’ve had to endure in the last few months, not once have you even offered to resign.

National Shrine of Secularism

THE Allahabad High Court’s decision on the Ayodhya dispute is a fine blend of vision and realism. By dividing the 2.7 acres of disputed land equally between the Sunni Central Waqf Board, the Nirmohi Akhada and Ram Lalla shrine claimants, the three-member bench has tried its best to leave no room for any more contestation.

Misguided Experiments

The decision of the government to ask the River Princess Hatao Manch (RPHM), a group of villagers from Sinquerim to submit plans for removal of the marooned ship was a sign of desperation.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Safety of Tourists
IT was heartening to read that the coming months will experience a tourist boom in Goa. Tourism is the backbone of the Goan economy and a vast section of the population is dependent on this industry for their livelihood. It would be a flourishing business for hotel owners,

The Allahabad High Court affirms that Ayodhya was indeed the birthplace of lord ram, divides land among three parties

Congress youth bodies call for immediate elections to the students council

Law soon to regulate real estate in Goa

Story Summary: 

 It is a well-known fact in Goa that the real estate sector was the most unregulated sector but the state would soon have a law to regulate the relationships between the builders and promoters of flats

PANAJI: It is a well-known fact in Goa that the real estate sector was the most unregulated sector but the state would soon have a law to regulate the relationships between the builders and promoters of flats, housing societies and the purchasers of flats, tenements, apartments, etc as the State Law Commission stepped in and prepared a draft bill to regulate them.

CM holds security review meeting with top officials

MARGAO: The Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat, met top administrative and police officials in Margao, on Wednesday, to review security preparations on the eve of the verdict on the Ayodhya title suits.

Kamat seeks blocking of social networking sites

PANAJI: Creation of fake profiles on Facebook has become a cause of worry in the state; a fake account in the name of Education Minister, Mr Atanasio Monserrate had already created a flutter some time back, and now it was the turn of the Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat, whose account was flashed on the social networking site by an imposter.

Project proposals worth Rs 96 cr forwarded to Centre

PANAJI: The state level steering committee for the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission has forwarded proposals worth Rs 96 crore to the Centre, for a number of major projects to be undertaken in and around the city.

Now, long-term visas for PIOs, dependents

PANAJI: The Commissioner for NRI Affairs, Mr Eduardo Faleiro has said that people of Indian origin holding passports of foreign nations, their spouses and dependents would henceforth be issued long term "X" (extendable) visas only and not tourist visas, as was being done till recently.

‘No ulterior motive in enforcing archaeological Act from March ’07’

PANAJI: The government has decided to bring the Goa Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (Amendment) Act, 2010 into force with retrospective effect, from March 1, 2007.

One more nabbed in Anjuna shooting case

MAPUSA: The Anjuna PI Mr Manjunath Dessai on Wednesday morning arrested Prashant Janardhan Konadkar, aged 28, in the Anjuna shooting case. According to Mr Dessai, the accused had gone to the JMFC Court at Mapusa to surrender, but Mr Dessai arrested him outside the court.

$250-mn ADB loan to Goa, 2 other states

NEW DELHI: The Asian Development Bank on Wednesday approved a multi-tranche financing facility of $250 million for the Sustainable Coastal Protection and Management Investment Programme which aims to reduce coastal erosion and instability in the western coastal states of Goa, Karnataka and Maharashtra.

HC to deliver Ayodhya verdict today

LUCKNOW: The Allahabad High Court will deliver its judgment on Thursday on the 60-year-old Ramjanambhoomi-Babri Masjid, an issue that had changed the course of politics in the last two decades and has the nation worried over the fallout of the verdict.

Unique ID project launched

TEMBHLI (MAHARASHTRA): The world’s first ID project where biometric data is used to provide unique identification numbers for India’s billion-plus citizens rolled out on Wednesday with the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh and the UPA chief, Ms Sonia Gandhi handing over the first set of 12-digit numbers to 10 tribals.

Patience holds key to elevation of women in politics, says Kamat

MARGAO: The Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat on Wednesday told women Congress workers that in politics the most important criteria was the virtue of patience and gave his own example to back it up. But in the same breadth, he assured them that the Congress party does not do "injustice" while conceding that sometimes things take time.

Sonsoddo dump: MMC to file affidavit in HC today

MARGAO: The Margao Municipal Council will file an affidavit before the High Court on September 30 giving details on what has been done till now as far as the management of the garbage at the Sonsoddo dump was concerned, informed municipality sources on Wednesday.

HC refuses interim relief in plea against hotel project at Bambolim

PANAJI: The High Court of Bombay at Goa comprising of Mr Justice D G Karnik and Mr Justice F M Reis refused to grant any interim relief in the petition challenging the permissions granted to the Hotel Grand Hyatt project at Bambolim.

Respite for litigants awaiting hearing in cases before GSIC

PANAJI: A number of litigants awaiting the hearing of their cases, pending before the Goa State Information Commission will now get some respite as the GSIC is all set to get its new state information commissioner soon.

Dempo, Bagan promise mouth-watering clash

MARGAO: I-League champions Dempo Sports Club clash with high-flying Mohun Bagan (Kolkata) in what could be a smashing encounter of the Federation Cup semi-finals at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack, on Thursday at 6pm.

Churchill Bros crash out, East Bengal in finals

CUTTACK: East Bengal edged past Churchill Brothers by a solitary goal in the first semi-final to book their place in the finals of 32nd Federation Cup at the Barabati Stadium, here on Wednesday evening.

Phenomenal Nhehern makes clean sweep, bags 4 gold

PANAJI: World Yogasana champion and Goa’s own wonder boy, Nhehern Acharya, a Std 8th student of Dr K B Hedgewar High School, Panaji continued his phenomenal success in his favourite discipline as he grabbed 4 gold medals at the World Yogasana Championships, which concluded at Rosario City, Argentina.

Sporting survive Faria scare

MAPUSA: Debutants Faria Sports Management gave mighty Sporting Clube de Goa a run for their money before the two sides shared a point each with a 1-1 draw in the Kingfisher Pro League encounter played at Duler grounds, here on Wednesday.

Kashmir’s Dialogue of the Deaf

BY PRAFUL BIDWAI

WELCOME as it was, the Kashmir visit of the all-party, 39-leader delegation wasn’t expected to accomplish much beyond acquainting Indian political leaders with the ground situation. Its handicap was that the delegation didn’t reach, and couldn’t convey, a broad political consensus on Kashmir.

A Tale of Delayed Justice

There cannot be a more pathetic tale of delayed justice than the now almost forgotten countermanding case which has taken over two decades to come up with a judgement from the JMFC court.

A Giant Leap

Wednesday was a red letter day for Tembhli, a tribal hamlet in western Maharashtra. Ten villagers received 12-digit unique identification numbers. Mr Nandan Nilekani, former Infosys chairman was selected to head the Unique Identification Authority of India.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

An Education in Etiquette

It is understood that from October 1, private bus conductors will come under the scanner of the Transport department. The conductors will be pulled up for not wearing uniform, non-issuance of tickets and rugged number plates etc.

Satyam fraudulent entries by Raju at Rs 6,800 crore

HYDERABAD: The total impact of fraudulent entries by the original promoters of Satyam Computer Services on the profit and loss account was to the tune of ` 6,800 crore, chairman of Tech Mahindra, the firm which acquired Satyam, said on Wednesday.

Girem leadership awards

MARGAO: The 3rd edition of GIREM, the flagship Urban Planning and Real Estate Leadership Summit, recently presented Girem Leadership Awards.

Surviving CVD risk factors

PANAJI: Dr Ramdas Nayak, interventional cardiologist and electro physiologist on the occasion of World Heart Day told media persons that coronary artery diseases is rising epidemic and gave tips for a healthy heart and stress free life, at the Vivus He art Centre, recently. He said cardio vascular disease (CVD) is prevalent in India has risen 4-fold in the past four decades.

ECONOMIC SCAN

GCCI to discuss labour issues

PANAJI: The Goa Chamber of Commerce & Industry is organising an open house. Experts from the trade, industry, State and Central Government departments such as labour, provident fund, ESI, inspectorate of Factories & Boilers and General Health Insurance among others will participate. The Open House on Labour related issues will be held on Sept 30 at 10.30 a.m.

Ustad Hussain guides students at workshop on Indian classical music

Ustad Hussain Sayeeduddin Dagar is in Goa to share his vast knowledge with the students of a workshop on Indian classical music. Organised by the Directorate of Art and Culture, Government of Goa, this ongoing workshop was held at the Black box, Kala Academy. It will conclude on October 1.  

36TH TIATR COMPETITION, KALA ACADEMY SEPT-OCT 2010

A love triangle that ends well

 BY WILLY GOES

 ‘Tuji Vokol Mhoji Bail’ is the story of a love triangle told differently. Rohan (Martin Mendes), a minister’s son is deeply in love with Fiona (Maria Rodrigues) and reaches a point of his love becoming an obsession. Rohan’s uninvited advances result in him being hit with a bamboo stick by Fiona’s fiancé Davis (Peter Corriea).

Interview with Consul General of Portugal Paulo Neves Pocinho

A Consul General who loves mirchi bhaji

At the end of this week, Consul General of Portugal in Goa, Paulo Neves Pocinho will leave to take up a new posting at Strasbourg, France.

Interview with Consul General of Portugal Paulo Neves Pocinho

A Consul General who loves mirchi bhaji

At the end of this week, Consul General of Portugal in Goa, Paulo Neves Pocinho will leave to take up a new posting at Strasbourg, France.

‘Village Evening’ mirrors beauty and threat to rural life

Sanjiv Verenkar’s anthology of poems ‘Village Evening’ translated from Konkani to English by the late Prof Prakash Thali was released at the hands of Dr Maria Arora Couto at the convention hall, Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Panaji.

Children mesmerise audiences at ‘Chakri Kirtan’

BY RAMESH SAVAIKAR|NT NETWORK

The goddess Yogeshwari devasthan at Kulan- Bicholim organised a special kirtan performance titled ‘Chakri Kirtan’ recently.

Celebrating colours

BY ARTI DAS | NT NETWORK

What’s the one thing that comes to mind when you think of colour? Our favourite colour.

We, however, should not restrict ourselves to one colour.

Voting Right to Non resident Goans soon, assures NRI Commissioner

Vishwajeet Rane backs mining: says minig provides ample employment

HC verdict on Ayodhya on Thursday

NEW DELHI/LUCKNOW: The Allahabad High Court will deliver its verdict in the 60-year-old Ramjanambhoomi-Babri Masjid title suit on Thursday after the Supreme Court on Tuesday cleared the path by dismissing a petition for its deferment ending the uncertainty.

Krishna meets Hillary

NEW YORK: India on Tuesday conveyed its concerns to the US on issues like H1B visa fee hike, export control restrictions and outsourcing ban during a meeting between the External Affairs Minister, Mr S M Krishna and his counterpart, Ms Hillary Clinton here.

Tourist season poised to get off to a flying start

Story Summary: 

The upcoming tourist season, schedule to begin later this week, is set to start on the most positive note for the tourism industry in the state with many hotels in North as well as South Goa already being overbooked by the tourists, both domestic and foreign.

PANAJI: The upcoming tourist season, schedule to begin later this week, is set to start on the most positive note for the tourism industry in the state with many hotels in North as well as South Goa already being overbooked by the tourists, both domestic and foreign.

Farmers not keen on availing bank loans

Story Summary: 

One out of every 10 farmers in the state is the holder of the Kisan Credit Card which allows him to avail of loans up to ` 3 lakh at a nominal rate of 4 per cent.

BY JOAO SOUSA M | NT NETWORK

BJP candidate Haldankar files nomination for Valpoi by-poll

Story Summary: 

BJP candidate, Mr Santosh Haldankar submits his nomination form to the returning officer, Mr Raju Gawas in presence of Leader of Opposition, Mr Manohar Parrikar, president of state BJP party, Mr Laxmikant Parsekar and others.

VALPOI: The Bharatiya Janata Party candidate, Mr Santosh Haldankar on Tuesday filed his nomination for the Valpoi by-election.

GHAG smells a rat in heritage policy

PANAJI: Stating that the 51 precious monuments under the state archaeological department have become vulnerable after the Goa Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (Amendment) Act, 2010 came into force with retrospective effect, from March 1, 2007,

Time given for identifying likely heritage structures inadequate: Aleixo

PANAJI: Stating that the 15-day period granted for filing suggestions with regards to the government process of identifying sites/structures, which would subsequently be declared as heritage sites, was grossly inadequate, the Power Minister, Mr Aleixo Sequeira has called for extension of the date even as he has called for more clarity on the process of identification.

BJP trying to mislead Valpoi voters, says Vishwajit

PANAJI: Mr Vishwajit Rane, who is seeking re-election from Valpoi constituency on a Congress ticket in the by-polls to be held on October 18, has said that while he was trying to garner votes on the plank of development done by him as an independent legislator and Health Minister over the last three years, the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party was trying to mislead the voters by engaging in sheer politics.

BJP demands stay on polls to GU students’ council

PANAJI: Alleging that there is a clear-cut political interference in the elections for the Students Council of the Goa University, the Students’ Cell of the state unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party on Tuesday

Section 144 imposed in Goa

PANAJI: Taking cognizance of the possibility of law and order problem and disturbance of breach of peace and tranquility in South Goa district, in view of the court verdict in Ayodhya case, Section 144 of Code of Criminal Procedure 1973 has been impose in Goa.

State to benefit to the tune of 1,800 sq kms: Churchill

PANAJI: Supporting the demand of the people from Karwar and Joida talukas in the neighbouring Karnataka state, as regards joining the two talukas with Goa for creating Greater Goa, the Minister for Public Works Department, Mr Churchill Alemao on Tuesday

All accused in 1989 election countermanding case acquitted

MARGAO: All the accused chargesheeted in the election countermanding case of 1989, were acquitted on Tuesday, by the Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) Margao, Ms Vandana Tendulkar.

Meet at Cotigao VP tomorrow to discuss wildlife sanctuary status

POINGUINNIM/CANACONA: The State Level Expert Committee (SLEC), for Critical Wildlife will attend a meeting on September 30, at Cotigao panchayat office, at 10 a.m. to discuss plans to declare Cotigao wildlife sanctuary as a Critical Wildlife Habitat (CWH).

Odafe could turn it on for Churchill Bros

CUTTACK: Former I-League champions Churchill Bros will meet East Bengal in the first semi-final of the 32nd Federation Cup football championships, on Wednesday (Sept29).

St Xavier’s defend women’s crown

PANAJI: St Xavier’s College, Mapusa successfully defended the inter-college basketball (women) championships 2010-2011 defeating Don Bosco College 15-4 in the finals, on Tuesday.

Sachin’s brace secures Calvim first win

MAPUSA: A late second half brace by Sachin Chopdekar propelled St Dominic Savio’s Sports Club, Calvim to a facile 3-1 win over Augustius Sports Club, Pomburpha in the GFA’s 3rd Division League played at Quitula grounds, Tuesday. It was Calvim’s first win in 3rd Division.

LOCAL SPORTS SCAN

Rohan gains 46 Elo rating points

PANAJI: Rohan Ahuja gained 46 Elo points in the just-concluded National B Chess Championships in Haryana.

It is harvest time

PANAJI: Paddy harvesting has begun in some parts of Goa whereas others parts harvesting has been postponed for a day or two. After some years, copious rains have significantly boosted Goa paddy crop, but the vagaries of the monsoon could disturb the happy farmers’ mood, said farmers.

D-Link unfurls latest switches

MUMBAI: Responsive to the evolving needs of small and medium businesses, D-Link’s latest series of gigabit and Fast Ethernet Web Smart III Switches offers the opportunity to construct a secure and productive network environment at an affordable price.

ECONOMIC SCAN

Goa Tourism bags Traveller award

PANAJI: Goa has been "India’s Best Beach Tourism Destination" with Today’s Traveller Award 2010, said a press release.

Elusive Pluralism in India

BY KULDIP NAYAR

IT was a laudable judgment of the Supreme Court which upheld the right of Indian Muslims to inherit the property that their fathers and forefathers had left behind before migrating to Pakistan.

Jalkund as Farmers’ New Hope

Necessity is the mother of invention: And it is the need for water that eventually led to the invention of ‘jalkund’, a small tank constructed on hill slopes for irrigation.

US New Page on Pak

Then it comes to dropping bombs in ‘enemy territory’ the former US President Mr George Bush comes across as ‘button happy’.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Development for All

A FEW days back, Goa’s Health Minister, Mr Vishwajit Rane, gave to the press a list of developmental works to the tune of ` 200 crore, undertaken by him for Valpoi.

36TH TIATR COMPETITION, KALA ACADEMY SEPT-OCT 2010

Ways of the wicked

 BY WILLY GOES

 “Arso zavn tum mhojem chitr mhaka dakoinakai. To arso foddun churo kortolom.”

Arso foddun churo kortolo zalear ugddas dor, tea arxeacheo kovnvcheo… so went the effective dialogues of the tiatr ‘Besaum’ staged at the 36thTiatr Competition at Kala Academy.

St Michael feast at Anjuna

MAPUSA: The feast of the patron saint of St Michael’s Convent High School, Vagator- Anjuna will be celebrated on September 29 in the school.

A day with GURU

MARGAO: Spiritual leader and founder of the Art of Living Foundation, Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, met the youth at an event held at Ravindra Bhavan, Margao recently.

Four-hundred-year old saga of the Rachol Seminary

By Glenn Costa | NT NETWORK

In its 400-year history, the edifice and institution known today as the Rachol Seminary has come a long way.

Waters of Inspiration

BY ARTI DAS | NT NETWORK

Subodh Kerkar, an acclaimed Goan artist, who always finds inspiration from the sea and the coast, and portrays his installation near water bodies, will be presenting his art at an international platform.

‘Mimicry King Sheik Amir’ released

Noted Konkani tiartrist, Sheikh Amir released his first audio album ‘Mimicry King Sheik Amir’ at the hands of Prince Jacob.

Three die, one seriously injured after their car collides with a bus near Karwar

A year later, Canacona flood victims are yet to be compensated

Mirwaiz rejects Kashmir formula

SRINAGAR: The moderate faction of the Hurriyat Conference on Monday rejected Centre’s latest initiative on Kashmir, saying it was "disappointing" as it reflected lack of willingness to meet the aspirations of the people.

Quepem ‘Jalkunds’ to boost chilli farming

Story Summary: 

A Jalkund being built at Quepem

By Joao Sousa M | NT NETWORK

PANAJI: Cultivation of chillies and lady’s finger on hilly areas in Quepem will receive a shot in the arm as the pilot project for their commercial cultivation will begin in the ensuing rabi season.

Breast operations top list of cancer surgeries at GMC

By Abdul Rauf Beig | NT NETWORK

PANAJI: Breast cancer operations continue to be the largest number of cancer-related operations performed by the surgeons at the Goa Medical College, with their number being 198 of 430 cancer operations in the year 2009 corresponding approximately to 46 per cent while the number of breast cancer operations in the current year until September 18 was 75 from among 152 cancer-related operations done, accounting for 49 per cent.

Govt accused of biased reservations

MARGAO: A panel of independents formed to contest the Margao municipal elections has alleged that houses have been systematically removed from one area and put in other areas for political gain.

State asked to furnish compliance report on water supply to Porvorim

PANAJI: The Division Bench of the High Court of Bombay at Goa constituting of Mr Justice D G Karnik and Mr Justice F M Reis has directed the state to furnish details of compliance with its earlier orders concerning the regular water supply to the areas of Porvorim and Socorro in Bardez.

Benaulim candidate Alemao asks detractors not to appoint proxies

MARGAO: Reacting to the news of another candidate for Benaulim constituency and a potential rival for his daughter, the PWD Minister, Mr Churchill Alemao on Monday challenged his detractors and opponents in the Congress to cross swords directly and not through proxies.

Drive against bogus ration cards from Oct 15: Pilernkar

PANAJI: The directorate of Civil Supplies will initiate a drive against bogus ration card holders from October 15 in the state. However, sufficient time would be allotted to submit and surrender such cards till October 14 to the said department or the concerned taluka mamlatdars or talathis, informed the director of Civil Supplies, Mr Gurudas Pilernkar on Monday.

Monserrate’s son summoned by HC

PANAJI: The division bench of the High Court of Bombay at Goa comprising of Mr Justice D G
Karnik and Mr Justice F M Reis issued notice to Mr Amit Monserrate, son of Education Minister, Mr Atanasio Monserrate, the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) and the North Goa Planning
and Development Authority (NGPDA), to appear before it.

2 brothers killed in Ribandar accident

Story Summary: 

Two brothers, Mr Pritam Gawas (20) and Mr Shivaji Gawas (30) from Dodamarg died on the spot when a speeding tourist bus rammed into their Activa scooter near an ice factory at Ribandar early Monday morning, informed the sub-divisional police officer, Mr Deu Banavalikar.

PANAJI: Two brothers, Mr Pritam Gawas (20) and Mr Shivaji Gawas (30) from Dodamarg died on the spot when a speeding tourist bus rammed into their Activa scooter near an ice factory at Ribandar early Monday morning, informed the sub-divisional police officer, Mr Deu Banavalikar.

Goa police facilitated Atala’s escape, says BJP

Story Summary: 

Reacting to certain press reports that the wanted drug dealer, Yaniv Benaim alias Atala has escaped to Israel, the Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday said that the criminal, who was released on bail by the court

PANAJI: Reacting to certain press reports that the wanted drug dealer, Yaniv Benaim alias Atala has escaped to Israel, the Bharatiya Janata Party on Monday said that the criminal, who was released on bail by the court, managed to escape with the full understanding of the police department, and the Red Corner notice was issued by the police only after Atala had reached his destination.

Friends Sporting supreme in Sunshine League

PANAJI: Friends Sporting Club, Carambolim won the first Sunshine League Cup football tournament, organised by Sunshine Sports Club, Carambolim at Carambolim panchayat grounds, Carambolim on Sunday.

Goa Diocesan Priests win soccer finals

MARGAO: Goa Diocesan Priests soccer team overpowered Holy Spirit Parish Youth, Margao 5-1 to win the Priestly Vocation Promotion Exhibition match organised by Holy Spirit Parish Youth played at Holy Spirit Church grounds, Margao on Sunday evening.

Sirsaim beat Sanquelim 2-1

MAPUSA: Sirsaim Sports & Welfare Club gleaned three valuable points after they overcame a spirited challenge from Sanquelim Football Club with a 2-1 win in the GFA’s 3rd Division League played at Tivim grounds, on Monday.

LOCAL SPORTS SCAN

Goa’s Nhehern in four finals at World Yogasana

PANAJI: Thirteen-year-old, Nhehern Acharya from Merces has qualified for the finals in all the four yoga events that he has been selected to participate at the World Yogasana Championships in Rosario city, Argentina, which is organised every year by the International Yoga Sport Federation,

Electoral Officer lists curbs during elections

PANAJI: The Model Code of Conduct has come into effect from September 20, after announcement of the schedule for the by-elections to the 19-Valpoi Assembly Constituency.

CM asks Cortalim VPs to initiate steps for garbage disposal

PANAJI: The Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat has asked village panchayats in the jurisdiction of Cortalim and its surrounding areas, to initiate steps for setting up of garbage disposal plants in their respective areas, to get rid of the garbage menace.

LOCAL SCAN

Gandhi Jayanti celebrations at Santa Cruz

PANAJI: Social Welfare Association of Santa Cruz will be celebrating Gandhi Jayanti on October 2 with various programmes. Firstly, there will be a mass at 7.30 a.m. at St Cruz church followed by garlanding of Mahatma Gandhi portrait and a get together at 8.30 a.m. followed by a drawing competition for students of St Cruz constituency at St Cruz High School.

Turkey lures Indian entrepreneurs

PANAJI: In his visit to Goa the Turkey Ambassador Mr Lavent Bilman highlighted the similarities between India and Turkey cultures, food habits among traditional customs. Inviting Indian business to Turkey, Mr Ravi Choudhry India Representative Turkish Prime Minister's Office and chairman CeNext Consulting Group said in his presentation that Turkey was the new ‘growth centre of Europe’ and G7 is 'History' and E7 is the 'Future'.

US to focus on business in tier II, III cities: Sanchez

MUMBAI: With Indo-US bilateral trade poised to touch the $50-billion mark, the US is keen to tap business opportunities emanating from Tier II and III cities which are not yet on the world radar, a senior US Government official said.

ECONOMIC SCAN

Syndicate Bank offers special interest rates

PANAJI: In view of ensuing festival seasons, Syndicate Bank has come out with special offers in rate on interest and service charges on fresh vehicle loans. For first year, the borrowers have to pay only 9 per cent (fixed) P.A., for second year rate will be 9.50 per cent (fixed) P.A. and from third year onwards, borrowers will pay only 10.50 per cent (fixed) P.A. Besides special concession offered in interest rates, bank is offering special discounts in processing and documentation charges, said a press release.

No Lasting Peace in Northeast

By Sanchet Barua and Dawa Tshering

PEACEMAKING is a messy business. Avoiding or ending violence often requires compromises that some consider appeasement, injustice, or undemocratic. Yet, a flawed peace may be preferable to continued violence. Ideally, compromises to end violence induce future participation in rule-based competition for political power.

Improving Climate in Kashmir

THE schools reopened in Jammu and Kashmir after three months of closure in view of virtually daily occurrence of stone pelting by mobs of youth at police. The attendance was about one-fifths of the normal but anyway it is a good beginning.

Incomplete BPL List

IT is highly deplorable that the Goa government agencies have failed to make a complete list of BPL (Below the Poverty Line) families at Telaulim village in South Goa district. Failure in one village suggests there might be people missing from the BPL list in other villages too.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Punish the Guilty

I

IT is indeed shameful to see the coverage on newspapers and TV news channels about the CWG mess. Because of some corrupt handfuls managing the event the image of the entire country has suffered a setback.

When India comes together to celebrate its diversity

BY PURVI RADIA | NT NETWORK

Very soon Jaipur, the pink city of India, is going to turn colourful for the national youth festival, set to be held from January 8 to 12, 2011. States from across the nation including union territories will get into the festive mood both in the competitive and non-competitive sections at the festival.

Proud to perform

Like every other year, this year too the Hamara School had organised an event for under privileged children. The event held at the Goa museum hall saw the children perform songs and dances giving expression to their talents.

More happiness in giving than receiving

What is Joy of Giving Week?

 The Joy of Giving Week is a festival of giving that aims to bring together Indians from all across the country and abroad through different acts of giving - money, time, skills or resources. The goal is to convert it into a full scale festival. This Week was launched in 2009 and is held every year starting on a Sunday and ending on a Saturday, containing October 2 within.

A labour of love dedicated to Venezuela

Celebrated writer of contemporary Indian literature, Amitav Ghosh released ‘Disappearance of Irene dos Santos’, a work of fiction by Margaret Mascarenhas, at Sunaparanta Goa Centre for the Arts, on Sunday.

Reliving 1000-year-old history through dance

MARGAO: The seven exponents of Indian classical dance from the Kalangan Institute, Margao participated in the mega Bharatnatyam dance concert where nearly a thousand dancers from across the country led by Padmabhushan Padma Subrahmanyam converged at the 1,000-year-old temple, built by the emperor Rajaraja Chola in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu.

Artistic extension of the soul

BY NAGUESH RAO SARDESSAI

The Art Camp, currently on at the International Centre - Goa, Dona Paula, has six artists from different cities of India painting in their inimitable style and theme.

Chocolicious

Chef Shubnam of AZ.U.R recommends

BJP holds home minister responsible for drug dealer Atala’s escape, demands his resignation

Swaminathan for grain storage grid

Story Summary: 

The noted agricultural scientist, Dr M S Swaminathan delivering the lecture. (Hemant Parab)

PANAJI: Stating that the Food Security Act could be implemented only if there was enough food, noted agricultural scientist, Dr M S Swaminathan has said that India can have proper food security if the natural resources in the country were put to proper use and enough storage facilities were built to house the agriculture produce.

Santosh is BJP nominee for Valpoi battle

Story Summary: 

The Bharatiya Janata Party declared Mr Santosh Haldankar, a long-time party worker from Valpoi representing Bahujan Samaj.

PANAJI:  The Bharatiya Janata Party declared Mr Santosh Haldankar, a long-time party worker from Valpoi representing Bahujan Samaj as its candidate, to contest the assembly by-election for the constituency, scheduled next month. Mr Haldankar is expected to file his nomination papers on Tuesday.

Archaeological Act implications raise fear among Chandor residents

Story Summary: 

At the Chandor gram sabha, the members discussed at length the effects of the Ancient Monument and Archaeological Site.

MARGAO: At the Chandor gram sabha, the members discussed at length the effects of the Ancient Monument and Archaeological Site and Remains Act (AMASRA) Amendment and Validation Act, 2010, which was recently passed in Parliament.

Curtorim villagers say no to road on Monte Hill

Story Summary: 

Curtorim villagers making a point with the sarpanch at the gram sabha on Sunday. (Ganadeep Sheldekar)

MARGAO: The Curtorim gram sabha held on Sunday, resolved to revoke the No Objection Certificate, issued to a private party for the proposed construction of a road from Alto-Dagualle to Monte Hill in Maina village, in the Curtorim panchayat area.

Usgao villagers want scrapyards scrapped

PONDA: In a lengthy and chaotic gram sabha of the village panchayat of Usgao-Ganjem held on Sunday, the villagers adopted a resolution to shut-down all existing scrap yards, claiming that the owners of these scrap yards were picking fights with the locals without any provocation.

Five held for abetment of suicide in Chorao mother-son death case

PANAJI: Old Goa police arrested five persons in connection with the death of 35-year-old Raghavi Wadekar and her minor child Manjunath, from Kerem-Chorao, informed the sub divisional police officer (SDPO), Mr Deu Banavalikar.  The lady had allegedly torched herself and her child and died in her bedroom some
days back.

5 per cent Goans suffering from diabetes, says Salkar

PONDA: The president of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Goa branch, Dr Shekhar Salkar said a preliminary study has revealed that five per cent of the Goan population is suffering from diabetes.

Locals threaten stir over Loliem ‘kidnapping’

POINGUINNIM: Demanding an enquiry into the incident of kidnapping of a youth from Loliem, Canacona on September 4, locals of Loliem-Polem have now warned of hunger strike on October 2, if the police fail to act on their demand of registering a case against the victim’s father of extortion of money, from the villagers to the tune of around Rs 1 lakh.

Pak minister removed for outburst

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Minister for Defence Production, Mr Abdul Qayyum Jatoi was shown the door on Sunday following his outburst against the armed forces and the Supreme Court Chief Justice a day earlier.

‘India has no intention to exchange barbs with Pak over JK’

NEW YORK: India would maintain a restrained posture and has no intention of indulging in a “mud-slinging match” with Pakistan over the issue of Kashmir that has recently been raised by Islamabad.

Middle East peace push faces settlement deadline

REUTERS: A 10-month freeze on new construction in Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank expires on Sunday, imperiling Middle East peace talks less than a month after their launch by the US President, Mr Barack Obama.

Rescue cage arrives at Chilean mine

The first of three rescue capsules specially built to lift out 33 miners trapped since early August has arrived at the San Jose mine in Chile.  The man-size steel capsule, which was delivered on Saturday, will be used to pull the miners out one by one once one of the three rescue holes being drilled reach the men. The government says that should happen by early November or earlier if all goes well.

Palace bills through poverty fund

LONDON: A government fund intended to provide subsidized heating to low-income Britons got some interest from an unexpected source: Queen Elizabeth II, who wanted help paying the bills at Buckingham Palace.

Snake found in Games Village

NEW DELHI:  Just as things were beginning to look up for the crisis-hit Commonwealth Games, fresh criticism hit the Games Village with South African envoy here claiming that a snake was found in one of the rooms even as four more top athletes on Sunday  pulled out of the mega event.

Changed policy on mining to be unveiled soon

NEW DELHI: Amid a fight between ministries of environment and coal on mining, the Union cabinet or the cabinet committee on infrastructure is expected to consider soon a reworked policy on the issue with an aim of striking a balance between development and ecological concerns.

Separatists to discuss J&K package today

SRINAGAR: Moderate Hurriyat faction headed by Mirwaiz Umer Farooq will meet here on Monday to frame a response to the eight-point initiative announced by the Centre for normalising the situation in Kashmir valley.

Curfew lifted from many parts of Kashmir Valley

SRINAGAR: Curfew was today lifted from many parts of Kashmir Valley while authorities announced relaxation in Srinagar, where curbs had been reimposed in the wee hours following incidents of stone pelting, and areas of Kupwara district.

Kashmir initiative not for separatists but for people: Chavan

NEW DELHI, Sep 26 (PTI) As hardline Hurriyat Conference dismissed the Centre’s Kashmir initiative, the Minister of State in the PMO, Mr Prithviraj Chavan today said the package was not meant for the separatists but for the people of Jammu and Kashmir and hoped that a “positive” reaction to emerge soon.

Mohun Bagan thrash Salgaocar 6-1, enter semis

CUTTACK: Riding on a hat-trick each by Jose Barreto and Subair Muritala Ali, 13 times champions Mohun Bagan trounced Salgaocar SC 6-1 in a Group D match of the 32nd Federation Cup football championship at the Barabati Stadium here on Sunday to barge into the semi-finals.

Rosary inter-college Tennikoit champs

Story Summary: 

Winners Rosary college and runners-up Mallikarjun college pose with their trophies.

PANAJI: Rosary College, Navelim won the inter-college Tennikoit championship organised by Goa University at University Sports Complex, Taleigao Plateau on Saturday. This was their third championship win in three consecutive years.

Gauwahati excel at Taekwondo tourney

Goa to participate in Maharashtra cricket C’ship

Adarsh qualify for play-offs

MAPUSA: Adarsh Yuvak Sangh, Saligao sealed a place in the knock-out round of the GFA’s 3rd Division League after they edged past Guirim Sports and Cultural Association by a 1-0 margin in a match played at Tembi grounds, Anjuna, on Sunday.

Indians back to winning ways in Chess Olympiad

RUSSIA: Indian men humbled Bulgaria 3-1 while their woman counterparts also overcame Iran with an identical margin to keep medal hopes alive in the 29th Chess Olympiad.

Guiza reveals tears over World Cup snub

MADRID: Fenerbache striker Dani Guiza says he was reduced to tears when he learned he was left out of Spain’s 2010 World Cup squad which went on to win the tournament for the first time in the country’s history.

Goa’s air, sea ports to get recognition as pharma ports

PANAJI:  Before this financial year, Goa’s only airport at Dabolim and only seaport that is the Mormugao port will be notified by the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) as import and export bases for pharma products. Discussions are going on with MPT for a pharma infrastructure base.

Neopost India-India Post tie up for digital franking machines

MUMBAI: Neopost India, part of the Paris-based Neopost Group, a worldwide leader in mailing and logistics solutions provider on Sunday said that it has partnered with government-controlled, India Post to sell digital franking machines to mass-mailers in the country.

CIPL records August sales of 627 Maruti vehicles

Bedmutha fixes IPO price band at Rs 95-102

Vasco Data Security launches smart card reader

MUMBAI: Vasco Data Security International Inc, a software security firm, has launched DIGIPASS 831, a new edition of its smart-card reader now with replaceable batteries.

India-Germany bilateral trade has potential to double by 2014: CII

NEW DELHI: The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) today said India and Germany have the potential to double their bilateral trade upto 30 billion dollar by 2014.  The chamber would be leading a business delegation to the European nation led by the CII president, Mr Hari Bhartia from September 27-30.

InterfaceFLOR seeks distributors in Goa

PANAJI: InterfaceFLOR is seeking distributor in Goa to market its nylon modular carpet tile products. Designed for a wide range of environments that includes corporate, healthcare, education, retail, hospitality and government, InterfaceFLOR is committed to achieving zero environmental footprints by 2020.

Rains hit yield in HP: tomato prices to shoot up in North India

SHIMLA: Tomatoes are going to drill a hole in consumers’ pockets in North India in the coming months as incessant rains have destroyed at least 60 per cent of the crop in Himachal Pradesh.

Sensex surges by 184 pts

MUMBAI: The BSE benchmark Sensex surged by 184 points to regain the magical 20,000 points level on Friday as foreign funds continued to pump capital into domestic equities, bolstered by the government’s move to relax certain foreign investment limits.

Geo-economic politics of W Ghats

BY NANDKUMAR KAMAT
IN the age of global warming and climate change, for sustainable ecological security and water security of Goa, the biological integrity of the Western ghats is central and critical.

Elusive Nutrition

AT a lecture in Panaji on Sunday, well-known agricultural scientist Dr M S Swaminathan, who is regarded as the Father of the Green Revolution in India, lamented that despite the fact that our country had almost 60 million tonnes of food constantly in stock, malnutrition was widespread.

Another CCP Riddle

THE Corporation of the City of Panaji has added one more riddle to its long list of mysteries. The CCP has given away about ` 68 lakh as fees for half a dozen or so of consultant agencies from outside Goa supposedly for preparing plans for submission to the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM).

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Inconvenience to Road Users
ON the pavement near the Sharada Mandir School, Miramar, a deep trench has been dug. The excavated mud has been heaped on either side of the pavement and simply left there. For more than a month now, no construction work is underway.

Acquired in haste, land for truck terminus project develops snags

Story Summary: 

Trucks seen parked on the road near the Rajendra Prasad stadium, Margao. These trucks make halts for loading and unloading purposes. (Roque Dias)

BY ROQUE DIAS|NT NETWORK
MARGAO: After much hue and cry was raised over the truck terminus project proposed to come up near the entrance of the Margao city, the project seems to lie in cold storage. Though the land--- 1, 37, 000 sq mts was acquired by the government, after acquiring it from farmers of the Maddel areas, it was handed over to the Goa State Urban Development Agency, (GSUDA) in 2003- 2004. Till today, the project remains a distanced dream.

Margao Sports Club makes dramatic entry into soccer league

MARGAO: There are many who have shown outstanding dedication and commitment in to the growth of football. Tito Cardozo is one such individual who had contributed silently for the upliftment and expansion of football in the suburbs of Margao.

Plastic menace haunts residents of Margao

BY SHYAM ZAMBAULIKER|NT NETWORK
MARGAO: Even as there is ban placed on the sale and use of recycled and colored plastic carry bags, its implementation has been found lacking. The use of plastic bags has become matter of grave concern despite increased awareness campaigns and much publicity on the threats posed by non-biodegradable materials such as plastics.

Poultry farming shows good prospects in South Goa villages

MARGAO: Poultry farming has a potential to be a roaring business in the state particularly in the coastal areas of Salcette given the fact that a major chunk of star hotels and other tourism related activities are located along this coastal belt.

High yielding grafts make cashew farming more lucrative

By ALBERT FERNANDES | NT
POINGUINNIM: The cashew crop has become a crop with high export potential, and several families in Canacona taluka earn their living from the fruits of this crop. As per available data, as many as 10,000 families, based mainly in Gaondongrem, Cotigao, Khola, Gulem and Shristhal, depend on this crop for their livelihood.

Bird hits continue unhindered at Dabolim

BY SUDESH BHOSLE | NT
VASCO: The number of bird hit incidents at Dabolim airport has increased in recent times, creating much concern among the authorities on the safety of aircrafts and travelers.

Dempo, Churchill Brothers highlight Goan domination

PANAJI / VASCO: Goan giants Dempo Sports Club and Churchill Brothers moved into the last four of 32rd Federation Cup football tournament despite drawing their last league matches on Saturday.

Counto honoured with Order of ‘Merito’

Story Summary: 

The Ambassador of Portugal to India, Dr Luis Filipe de Castro Mendes bestowing on Mr Anil Counto the Insignia of ‘Commendador’, Order of ‘Merito’, at a special function held at the residence of the Consul General of Portugal to Goa, on Saturday evening. Also seen is the Consul General of Portugal to Goa, Dr Paulo Neves Pocinho.

PANAJI: The noted construction magnate, industrialist and philanthropist, Mr Anil Counto was honoured with one of the highest Portuguese civilian awards - the Insignia of ‘Commendador,’ Order of ‘Merito’ at the hands of the Ambassador of Portugal to India, Dr Luis Filipe de Castro Mendes, during a special ceremony held in the city, on Saturday.

CCP spends Rs 68 lakh on consultant agencies

PANAJI: The Corporation of the City of Panaji has spent around Rs 68 lakh from its coffers on various consultant agencies, for preparing detailed projects reports as regards Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM).

IFFI 2010 tenders: ESG takes measures to do away with errors

PANAJI: Taking into account various controversies that had cropped up during the International Film Festival of India 2009, pertaining to different tenders awarded by the Entertainment Society of Goa, the organisers, this year have tried to minimise a number of errors and omissions in the tender documents.

State decides to open dialogue with RPHM

PANAJI: With the Salgaonkar Mining Industry Private Limited refusing to accept the government condition of providing Rs 10 crore bank guarantee, sought before awarding the contract for removal of River Princess, the state authorities have decided to open dialogue with the other bidder, the River Princess Hatao Manch (RPHM).

Vishwesh Prabhu decides to contest as Independent

VALPOI: In an unexpected development, social activist and prominent businessman, Mr Vishwesh Prabhu from Valpoi has decided to file his nomination papers as an independent candidate for the Valpoi by- election, on Monday.

Navy’s attitude of grabbing land needs to be opposed: Shantaram

PANAJI: Mr Shantaram Naik, MP, in a statement issued, on Saturday, has said that Indian Navy’s attitude of grabbing land in Goa needs to be opposed tooth and nail and therefore he will take up the matter with the Union Defence Minister, Mr A K Antony, very soon.

Centre announces 8-point initiative for Kashmir

NEW DELHI: Under a major 8-point initiative to address the unrest in the Kashmir Valley, a group of interlocutors is being appointed to hold a "sustained dialogue" with various shades of opinion, about 200 youth detained for stone-pelting are being released and the presence of security personnel is being de-scaled.

Charter flights from Russia to double this season

Story Summary: 

Even as the state prepares to celebrate the World Tourism Day, the state tourism authorities and the tourism industry have a reason to smile as the indications have emerged that the arrival of foreign tourists could set a new record in the upcoming season.

BY ABDUL RAUF BEIG | NT

PANAJI: Even as the state prepares to celebrate the World Tourism Day, the state tourism authorities and the tourism industry have a reason to smile as the indications have emerged that the arrival of foreign tourists could set a new record in the upcoming season.

‘Goa hub for Indo-Portuguese speaking countries’ trade’

Story Summary: 

The Ambassador of Portugal to India, Dr Luis Filipe de Castro Mendes on Saturday said that Goa could become a hub for establishing and strengthening economic relations between not only India and Portugal

BY RAMNATH N PAI RAIKAR | NT

PANAJI: The Ambassador of Portugal to India, Dr Luis Filipe de Castro Mendes on Saturday said that Goa could become a hub for establishing and strengthening economic relations between not only India and Portugal, but India and other Portuguese speaking countries like Brazil in South America, Angola and Mozambique in Africa and Macao in the East.

Goa faces problem of corrosion due to sea: Governor

PANAJI: The Governor, Dr S S Sidhu said coastal areas like Goa exposed to the influence of sea and therefore face a peculiar problem of corrosion. He appealed to experts to find acceptable solutions to this problem so that the construction industry and in turn people of Goa along with those living in coastal areas in the world, could benefit from such knowledge.

Students called upon to imbibe leadership qualities

MARGAO: As many as 180 Bharat scouts and guides from 18 schools of Salcette taluka converged at Majorda for a 3-day patrol leaders leadership camp, which was coordinated by the district commissioner, Mr Mario Pereira, secretary, Ms Regina Faleiro, guides captain, Rita, organising secretary, Mr Russel Coutinho, treasurer, Mr Mariano Valadares, joint secretaries, Ms Bertyle, Ms Valanka and
Mr Vishal.

Vasco, Faria share spoils in Pro League

MAPUSA: Vasco Sports Club and Faria Sports Management were forced to share a point each in their third round match of the Kingfisher Pro-League after a drab 1-1 draw at Duler grounds, Saturday.

GCA on track for successful ODI

PANAJI: "The Goa Cricket Association (GCA) is on track for a successful organisation of the India-Australia one-day international at Nehru stadium, Fatorda on October 24 and that all arrangements, importantly the core-factors, pitch and ground is nearing completion," stated the GCA secretary, Mr Prasad Phaterpekar while addressing the media in a city hotel on Saturday.

Goa U-19 lift soccer crown

MAPUSA: Goa fought gallantly to register a hard- fought 4-2 win via tie-breaker over Chandigarh in the finals, to annex the U-19 National School Games Football Championship title, played at Jammu, on Saturday.

BAFF squeeze past Colvale

MAPUSA: Bicholim Association Football Club registered a narrow 1-0 win over Youth Club Colvale, in the GFA Third Division League match played at Tivim grounds on Saturday.

LOCAL SPORTS SCAN

Basilio Andrade football from October 10

PANAJI: The traditional 9th edition of all-Goa inter-village Fr Basilio Andrade memorial football tournament will start from 10th October as Musson grounds, Majorda and will be organised by A A de Majorda Utorda-Calata.

Staying Alive

BY ARTI DAS | NT NETWORK

Retired banker, Mr M Bhaskar Bhat may look like any other retired senior citizen who spends most of his time with his family playing with his grandchildren and sometimes making time for social gatherings.

Silent Flows Saryu

By Jagdish Dwivedi

It is difficult to notice the ordinariness of daily life in Ayodhya. Ayodhya, meaning that which remains unvanquished, was ironically crushed when the last brick of the Babri Mosque fell to the ground.

The Palace Intrigue of the Dowager Empress

By Kedar Nath Pandey

India is passing through a period of great political turbulence. As such, it is difficult to say that this is a period of transition and that India will, as in the past, soon achieve a measure of stability either as a result of the recovery of the Congress, or of a further expansion in the influence of the BJP.

Restoring the Dignity and Humility of the Church

By Mário Cabral e Sá

Unsurprisingly, RTP, the Portuguese TV channel was the first to broadcast Pope Benedict’s apology to thousands of young victims of paedophile priests. It was a touching act of sincere recognition.

Thorny Path to Progress

By Tomazinho Cardozo

December 1961 Goa was liberated. Democracy triumphed. Over the last 49 years, both democratically as well as ‘undemocratically’, elected governments have administered this little state. 

The Bond Between Man and Nature

By Vinayak Khedekar

In amorous bond exists between man and his surrounding environment. Traditionally, Goan folk have involved themselves in soil, where in nature around becomes a part of their life and has enriched their culture.

Love Decoded

By Marilia Priyanka Fernandes

Our search for love begins sometime in adolescence and ends for many during young adulthood. In our culture it means that our search ends in marriage.

Scholar’s Ink and Martyr’s Blood

By Khushwant Singh

Sheikh Abdullah Azzam, an Islamic scholar, wrote "The life of the Muslim Ummah is solely dependant on the ink of its scholars and the blood of its martyrs."

The Conflict in Our Minds

By Sadhguru

The more people think, the less joyful they become. It should not be so.

Your mind is society’s garbage bin. Anybody who walks by stuffs something into your head. You really have no choice.

A Medicinal Canopy

By Dr Kasturi Desai

Ganesh Chathurthi is usually celebrated for one-and-a-half-day, five-days or seven-days, but many continue the celebration for eleven, thirteen or twenty-one-days.

The Palace of a 1000 Doors

By Anthony Kuriakose

Situated in a one hundred acre park, the Hazar Duari or the one thousand door palace of the Nawabs of Murshidabad is in the limelight, on account of its being a treasure trove of valuable historical exhibits.

New Discovery by Goan Woman Scientist in USA

By Dr Nandkumar M Kamat

I am introducing a role model specifically for those Goan girls dreaming of successful careers in big, socially useful sciences but having some confusion about the future. Her name is Dr Janneth Rodrigues.

‘I fear for India’s younger generation’

By Sharda Ugra

The Yuvraj Singh of today is very different to the electric fielder at point. What happened to him?

film review: Money Amour

By Sachin Chatte

Film: Wall Street – Money Never Sleeps

Cast: Michael Douglas, Shia LeBeouf, Carey Mulligan

Directed by: Oliver Stone

Duration: 130 minutes

Rating: * * *

Preparations for Australia – India cricket match at Fatorda going smoothly, says GCA

Tiatr Review

Bombainchem Figur

by J P Pereira

The late Jose Santana Mascarenhas had written and presented this ‘tiatr’ in the year 1975, first at Majorda and later in Abu Dhabi.

Make Every Woman Count

By Pamela Philipose

Jill Sheffield, 61, the founder-president of the New York-based non-profit, ‘Women Deliver’, has helped put the deaths of ordinary women in childbirth on the international agenda through a combination of indefatigable campaigning and targeted public education. For her, battling maternal mortality is about a very simple idea: Protecting women’s right to live.

Love your heart

Heart, the fist-sized organ, is one of the keys to quality life. On World Heart Day, celebrated on the last Sunday of September, ‘The Navhind Times’ explores various mantras to a healthy heart

‘Art is eternal, not man’

BY PRATIMA ACHREKAR | NT NETWORK

Noted classical artiste, Ustad Sayeeduddin Dagar will for the first time conduct a workshop on Indian classical music and voice culture in Goa.

Don Bosco Celebrates World Tourism Day

DonBosco College, Panaji, celebrated World Tourism Day on the September 25. President of TTAG, Mr Gaurish Dhond was the chief guest on the occasion while environmentalist, Mr Clinton Vaz, was the guest of honour.

TAG-OF-WAR

Upala KBR

upala@mid-day.com

Mallika Sherawat resents her Dhamaal 2 co-star Kangna Ranaut and she isn’t hiding it. And it’s because Kangs is being tagged as having a ‘sexy’ role in the comic flick. Mallika feels the term belongs exclusively to her.

QUEASY ABOUT THE KISSIES

Tushar Joshi

tushar.joshi@mid-day.com

Anjaana Anjaani co-stars Ranbir Kapoor and Priyanka Chopra share two liplocks in their upcoming Sajid Nadiadwala production

balm calm

Subhash K Jha

hitlist@mid-day.com

The standoff between Arbaaz Khan Productions (AKP) and a company that produces balms, has come to an end.

Mariah's early Xmas

Kate's arm candy

Serena gets kissy

Transfusion of wrong blood nearly costs lady her life

Story Summary: 

Alleged negligence by the doctors attached to unit I of the obstetrics and gynaecology department of the Goa Medical College, nearly cost a patient her life.

BY ABDUL RAUF BEIG | NT

PANAJI: Alleged negligence by the doctors attached to unit I of the obstetrics and gynaecology department of the Goa Medical College, nearly cost a patient her life.

GSHCL introduces local vegetables in markets

Story Summary: 

Locally grown vegetables and fruits supplied by local farmers have started entering the markets, and consumers can expect the best quality fruits and vegetables in the coming months, said a senior official of the GSHCL.

BY MICHAEL FISHER | NT

PANAJI: Locally grown vegetables and fruits supplied by local farmers have started entering the markets, and consumers can expect the best quality fruits and vegetables in the coming months, said a senior official of the Goa State Horticulture Corporation Ltd (GSHCL).

Ayodhya: religious leaders appeal for peace in state

PANAJI: With the Allahabad High Court set to deliver its judgement in the title suit of the Ram Janambhoomi-Babri Masjid case sooner than later, the religious leaders of different communities and others in the state have appealed for peace and calm.

Mental torture led to suicide: victim’s brother

PANAJI: Mr Sandesh Gawade, the brother of 35-year-old Raghavi Raghuvir Wadekar, who, along with her child, was found charred to death at Chorao, has lodged a complaint with the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM), that his sister was mentally tortured and physically harassed, that it led to her committing suicide.

Recent religious fests not to get CCP nod

Story Summary: 

BJP-backed councillors making their point heard at the CCP meeting on Friday.

PANAJI: The meeting of the councillors of the Corporation of the City of Panaji (CCP) held on Friday decided to refuse permission to all the religious activities/ functions/ prayers recently introduced in the city, and conducted by erecting temporary sheds along roadside by various communities, in view of a related Supreme Court judgment.

Declare ward reservations immediately: BJP

PANAJI: The state legislative wing of the Bharatiya Janata Party, on Friday, demanded that the government immediately declare the wards of various municipal areas around the state, as per the existing reservations for candidates including 33 per cent reservation for women candidates and 19.5 per cent reservation for OBC candidates, in view of the municipal elections scheduled next month.

Oppn councillors say they were not consulted

PANAJI: The pay parking service scheduled to be implemented in the city later this year, especially around the city municipal market and along the 18th June Road may have received the mandate of the ruling side councillors in the Corporation of the City of Panaji, but these pay parking zones are located in the wards represented by the group of councillors on opposition side, and supported by the Bharatiya Janata Party.

‘Identify problems of workers to ensure safety’

PANAJI: Stating that productivity is directly linked to safety, health and environment, the Chief Secretary, Mr Sanjay Srivastava has asked safety and health officers to interact constantly with the employees working in industries and identify their problems if any for redressal.

KTC to be made passenger-friendly: Dhavlikar

PANAJI: The chairman of Kadamba Transport Corporation, Mr Deepak Dhavlikar said that the Corporation is in the process of revamping its services to make them passenger friendly in the days to come even and added that additional counters for shuttle services will be introduced shortly at the Margao and Panaji bus stands.

Azgaonkar assures to solve Pernem farmers’ problems

PERNEM: Stressing that fields are the real property of the farmers and the Pernem taluka still has number of fields which are being cultivated, the Panchayat Minister, Mr Manohar Azgaonkar requested the farmers not to stop cultivating their fields.

Bail plea of rape accused rejected

MARGAO: The principal district and session judge, South Goa, Mr U V Bakre, on Friday, rejected the bail application of Prashant Tari, who is under arrest for allegedly raping a girl at an isolated spot at Sonsoddo.

Newly-wed woman commits suicide

MAPUSA: The Mapusa police informed that Anushka, alias Sonali Patil, a 28-year-old woman who was married to Anush in May this year, and who was presently residing at Teen Maad-Camurlim, committed suicide on Friday morning, by hanging herself in her office at Mapusa.

Students undertake cleaning of temple premises at Sal

BICHOLIM: The class XII students of Dnyanprakash Higher Secondary School, Mulgaon-Bicholim undertook the cleaning of the premises of a small temple, located atop Kasinath hill, at Sal near the Goa-Maharashtra border.

Logistic bottlenecks affecting GDP by 2%: ASSOCHAM

NEW DELHI: The Associated Chamber of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) on Friday suggested introduction of a unified body to develop India’s Logistic Master Plan and an integrated road map for its implementation. The idea is to avoid multiplicity of agencies, both at the Centre and state levels.

Helpline for MSME sector

PANAJI: The Union Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) will be setting up an ‘Udyami Helpline’ with toll free number 1800-180-MSME or 1800-180-6763 across the country to provide easy and ready access to information regarding the various government programmes for MSMEs and to provide interaction with
the banks.

ECONOMIC SCAN

Andhra Bank’s new premises in Margao

‘Hope Sachin’s dream of winning World Cup comes true’

BY SUDHAKAR SHANBHAG |NT

PANAJI: The legendary Sachin Tendulkar has always confessed about his long-cherished dream of winning the World Cup for India and as the new cricketing season in India kicks off with the high-profile India-Australia series, next weekend, the cricket audience both in India and worldwide will be eagerly anticipating a combative series between the two cricketing giants.

Kambli, Vengsarkar to play ‘Goa Super Sixes’

PANAJI: Top Corporates from across India will come together for the annual ‘Goa Super Sixes’ cricket tournament, which commenced at Taj Exotica, Benaulim on Friday and will culminate on Monday, September 27.

Calvim, Friends XI split points

MAPUSA: St Dominic Savio’s Sports Club, Calvim came back strongly in the second session to hold Friends XI Sports Club, Vaddem to a 3-3 draw and share a point in the GFA’s 3rd Division League at Quitula grounds, on Friday.

Goa to face Chandigarh

MAPUSA: Goa will have a tough task on hand when they take on the might of Chandigarh to decide the champions of the 66th National School Games U-19 (boys) football being played at Jammu.

Integrity as CVC’s Supreme Virtue

By INDER MALHOTRA

THE United Progressive Alliance government has done great disservice to the country by its choice of the new Chief Vigilance Commissioner. In one fell swoop it has thrown to the winds all Constitutional properties and democratic decencies.

Controlling Vehicle Theft

UP till September 20 this year, 282 vehicles were stolen in the state by gangs or crooks working alone. Of this, 256 were two-wheelers, 11 cars, four jeeps and 11 others tempos or trucks. In 2007, the total number of vehicles stolen was 212 and in 2008, the figure was 229.

The Divine Word

WHOEVER believes an amicable settlement of the Ayodhya dispute is possible is not living the reality we are living in.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Unreliable Bus Services

ALTHOUGH bus fares have been hiked, private bus operators have not yet laid stress on assuring better service to commuters. Nor are the rules and regulations framed by the transport authorities strictly implemented.

Celebrating the life of Daniel Pearl

Once again Goa honoured American journalist and accomplished musician, Daniel Pearl and commemorated his life and work by using the universal language of music to spread the message of hope, unity and “Harmony for Humanity” at the Daniel Pearl World Music Days.

Audio Review by J P Pereira

Tribute to Fr Thomas

Manfa Music, Margao presents Edwin d’Costa’s tribute to Fr Thomas, on an audio album with the same title. Fr Thomas was the young priest who drowned while trying to save the life of others.

‘Surya’- a tribute to Rabindranath Tagore

BY PRATIMA ACHREKAR | NT NETWORK

Indiawill be celebrating the 150thbirth centenary of Rabindranath Tagore in 2011. To commemorate the occasion, the students of Hamara School, a school for underprivileged children will be presenting ‘Surya’-a Music and Dance concert on September 26 at Goa Museum Hall, Patto Plaza, Panaji at 5:30 p.m.

Descent into the fogs of Alzheimer—A Sister Recounts

By Sarojini Vittachi

She sat in the garden under the apple tree, in her wheelchair, reading a detective story. The back of the book summary told the story: Murders, an illicit love affair and a family in turmoil. I went out to join her in the March autumn sun, and said, "Jess, what's the book about?"

Unfolding the Acts of the Apostles

By Tomazinho Cardozo

‘Devachim Vortim Vizmitam’(Dhormdhutancho Itihas) is the translation of the English book ‘Acts of the Apostles’ published by Rev Fr Manuel Gomes, chairman of Povitr Pustokachea Vavrachi Goychi Dhormprantik Somiti (PPVS).

BJP claims Congress party has manipulated electoral rolls to keep its stranglehold on civic bodies during coming elections

Artist to converge at art camp at International Centre

BY NAGUESH RAO SARDESSAI

International Centre - Goa in association with Indian Ateliers, Goa, is having an art camp at the International Centre, Dona Paula where seven noted artists from the country will participate. Of these, two are from Goa.

Dil ‘Mangii’ More!

By Odette and Joe Mascarenhas

Now if you think this is a Bollywood blockbuster you could be right, but there is a small difference. This Bollywood starrer is a Mumbai-based Italian restaurant that is now at Panaji. If you want to know how Bollywood dines, Café Mangii proprietor, Prashant Chaudhri has created just the place for you.

Govt directs hotels to follow pollution control standards

Story Summary: 

In an attempt to check the air and water pollution and waste management in the hotel industry, the Goa State Pollution Control Board has decided to subject the hotels.

BY MICHAEL FISHER | NT
PANAJI: In an attempt to check the air and water pollution and waste management in the hotel industry, the Goa State Pollution Control Board has decided to subject the hotels to pollution control standards by charging them a pollution NOC fee.

One 2-wheeler stolen per day in Goa

Story Summary: 

If the figures available with the police department are to be believed, everyday a two-wheeler is stolen from open parking places in the state.

BY SHEIKH JAMALLUDDIN | NT
PANAJI: If the figures available with the police department are to be believed, everyday a two-wheeler is stolen from open parking places in the state. This, despite the cops nabbing several gangs involved in such thefts.

‘Deal was struck with Joe Boy to murder Roy’

PANAJI:  History-sheeter, Michael Fernandes, presently in custody, disclosed that Joe Boy, who is wanted in many cases and is presently absconding, was offered a huge sum to eliminate, Mr Roy Naik, son of the Home Minister, Mr Ravi Naik. 

Relaxations introduced for special children

MARGAO: Concessions for special children, who experience a writing disability, have been introduced and many schools in the state have identified such students, who could take benefit of these relaxations.

Vishwajeet files nomination papers

Story Summary: 

The Health Minister, Mr Vishwajeet Rane, submitting nomination papers to the returning officer, Mr Raju Gawas, in the presence of Dr Divya Rane. Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat, president of Goa Pradesh Congress Committee, Mr Subhash Shirodker, Power Minister, Mr  Alexio Sequeira, MLA of Pali constituency, Mr  Pratap  Gawas, (Abdulla Khan)

VALPOI: The Health Minister, Mr Vishwajeet Rane on Thursday, filed nomination papers to contest the Valpoi by-election in the presence of his wife, Dr Divya Rane, Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat, president of Goa Pradesh Congress Committee, Mr Subhash Shirodker, Power Minister, Mr Alexio Sequiera, MLA of Pali constituency, Mr Pratap Gawas,  vice-chairperson of VMC, Mr Umesh Gulelkar, councillor, Mr Abdul Munir Beig and various sarpanchas and councillors of Valpoi.

Experts speak of satellite towns to ease pressure on metros

MARGAO: The future of metropolitan India lies in the creation of completely new urban centres, coupled with development of satellite towns around existing metros as one cannot run away from the fact that development is bound to happen, said experts in urban development.

CM launches underground power cabling work

MARGAO: The Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat, on Thursday, inaugurated the Rs 80-crore work of underground cabling of electrical connections starting from the other side of the railway tracks, near Damodar College in Margao. The Power Minister, Mr Alexio Sequiera was also present.

British media mock India for Games disaster

LONDON: From raising issues of child labour to pointing to the “agonisingly inefficient infrastructure”, the British media today launched a scathing attack on the poor preparedness for the Commonwealth Games (CWG) that will begin in New Delhi on October 3.The upcoming Games was given prominent display in all the major newspapers here, with some using photographs to illustrate their point.

‘World Statesman Award’ for Dr Manmohan Singh

NEW YORK: The India’s Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh has been honoured with the 2010 ‘World Statesman Award’ by a US-based interfaith coalition for his commitment to democracy, freedom, human rights and peace in the service of humanity.

Typhoon kills 54 in China, dozens missing

BEIJING: Floods and landslides from the strongest storm to hit China this year have killed at least 54 people and left dozens missing since it struck earlier this week, officials said Thursday.
 Typhoon Fanapi swamped south China’s Guangdong province after directly hitting the island of Taiwan on Sunday and killing two there.

Peace Day programme in Medellin

MEDELLIN (COLOMBIA): Colombian singer-songwriter Juanes organised a concert in a violent district of his home city of Medellin, where turf battles among rival gangs have killed more than 1,600 people this year.

SC defers Ayodhya verdict till Sept 28

NEW DELHI: The Allahabad High Court verdict on the Ayodhya title suit will not be delivered on Friday with the Supreme Court deferring it by a week in a sudden turn of events on Thursday and deciding to hear the plea for postponement next Tuesday.

MHA sets deadlines for CWG works

NEW DELHI: Setting its foot down, the Home Ministry on Thursday asked the Commonwealth Games Organising Committee to complete all unfinished works by Saturday morning to ensure foolproof security.

PM holds meet on CWG, Kalmadi kept away

NEW DELHI: Amid intense criticism over Commonwealth Games preparations, the Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh on Thursday held a meeting with Union ministers and others involved in the sporting event but kept away Organising Committee chief, Mr Suresh Kalmadi triggering speculation that he was being sidelined.

End illegal occupation of J&K: India tells Pak

NEW YORK: Stating that Jammu and Kashmir is an internal matter of India, External Affairs Minister, Mr S M Krishna has asked Pakistan to end its illegal occupation of some parts of the state before advising New Delhi.

Agitating Jats vow to disrupt CWG

CHANDIGARH:  Even as the Haryana government claims to have brokered peace with protesters in the state seeking inclusion in OBC list, members of the Jat community on Thursday threatened to disrupt the supply of essential commodities, including milk, to the national capital during the Commonwealth Games.

Ranty stars in Dempo’s 2-0 win over AIFF XI

LUDHIANA: Ranty Martins continued his great form in the 32nd Federation Cup as the prolific and seasoned Nigerian sharpshooter scored a brace to guide I-League champions Dempo Sports Club to a 2-0 victory over AIFF XI in a Group C match played at the Guru Nanak Stadium, here on Thursday. 

Viva drop points, Churchill held

Story Summary: 

M D Rafique of Chirag United Sports Club (R) and Rahul P of Viva Kerala vie for the ball during their Federation Cup match at Tilak Stadium, Vasco on Thursday. (Sudesh Bhosle)

VASCO: The Federation Cup matches played at Tilak Stadium, here, produced two draws—Viva Kerala let Chirag United Sports Club come from behind twice for a 2-2 result, while Sesa Football Academy split points with the formidable Churchill Brothers Sports Club in a 1-1 stalemate on Thursday.

Security review meeting for India-Aus ODI held

MARGAO: A security review meeting between the South Goa Collector, top police brass, sports authorities in view of the upcoming 3rd one-dayer between India and Australia was held at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, here on Thursday.

5-a-side football at Fatorda

AA de Moira back to winning ways

MAPUSA: AA de Moira claimed three full points in the   GFA 3rd Division League when they registered a comprehensive 4-1 win over Augustius Sports Club, Pomburpha at Quitula gounds on Thursday.

Pune FC ground Air-India

CUTTACK: Pune FC registered their first win, scoring two goals to ground Air India in Group A quarter final leauge and stay in the challenge of the 32nd Federation Cup, at Barabati Stadium here today.

JCT suffer second defeat

LUDHIANA: Hosts Jagatjit Cotton Textile Mills, Phagwara suffered their second successive defeat as they went down fighting to Oil and Natural Gas Corporation 2-1 in a Group C quarter-final league match in the 32nd Federation Cup at the Guru Nanak Stadium here today.

East Bengal pip HAL

CUTTACK: East Bengal registered their second win on the trot and defeated HAL, Bangalore 2-1 to stay in the contention for a place in the semi-finals garnering six points.

Food inflation soars to 15.46%

NEW DELHI: Food inflation rose for the fourth straight week to 15.46 per cent for the week ended September 11, as heavy rains and floods disrupted supplies of essential items.

11 mn tonne increase in foodgrain production

NEW DELHI: The first advance estimates of production of major crops grown in the country in the kharif season, or autumn harvest, states that the total foodgrains production is likely to increase by about 11 million tonnes over the previous estimates.

India switches over to cleaner petrol, diesel

NEW DELHI: The country has fully switched over to cleaner Euro-III and Euro-IV petrol and diesel as of Wednesday and well ahead of the October one deadline, Minister of State for Petroleum, Mr Jitin Prasada said on Thursday.

FM confident economy will grow over 8.75% this fiscal

NEW DELHI: Upbeat on economic fundamentals, the Union Finance Minister, Mr Pranab Mukherjee on Thursday said India will cross growth projections of 8.75 per cent this fiscal, but cautioned that infrastructure posed a challenge to bigger expansion.

New BMW X5 debuts in India

Mapusa branch celebrates BOI’s 105th Foundation Day

MAPUSA: Bank of India’s Mapusa branch recently celebrated its 105th Foundation Day. On this occasion, blood pressure was monitored using an automatic blood pressure machine at the Mahila Ashram managed by the Gomantak Lok Seva Trust at Muddy, Anjuna.

Sattari Urban AGM on Oct 3

Cycle market growing at 15-18%: Munjal

CHANDIGARH: The market of cycle is growing at a rate of 15 to 18 per cent in the country, a top cycle manufacturing company official said here on Thursday.

Betting on the winning sectors: the MF option

By Tensing Rodrigues
On Tuesday we had looked at some sectors of Indian economy which could enable us to ride smoothly through the ups and downs of the stock market, earning us reasonable returns over a long horizon.

Give and Take on Ayodhya

BY FIROZ BAKHT AHMED
THERE’S a mysterious lull before the declaration of the Ram Mandir-Babri Masjid verdict from the Allahabad High Court, now postponed to September 28. However, the voices of sanity and reason implore that it would be best for Indian Muslims gracefully to offer the disputed patch of land in Ayodhya to their Hindu brethren for Ram Mandir, rather than allowing the issue to be misused by politically ambitious elements in both communities.

Better Service to Commuters

IN 2005-06 the Centre launched the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM) and Panaji was one of the 63 cities chosen for implementation of the scheme.

Obama’s War Games

A new book titled ‘Obama’s Wars’ by the celebrated journalist Bob Woodward is expected to be released over the weekend. But excerpts published in US press have kicked up a political storm. The excerpts reveal deep differences within the Obama administration over the conduct of the Afghan war.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

CWG Games: National Shame-I
ON September 21, the world woke up to the horrific news of the crisis and the chaos enveloping the Commonwealth Games in Delhi. To add to the misery of inadequately completed games and housing facilities, came the crowning disgrace–news of the collapse of the foot bridge connecting the stadium to the parking lot.

Faleam Konnem Poilam

Willy Goes
The tiatr ‘Faleam Konnem Poilam’ opened with a thought provoking ‘opening chorus’ by Rosario de Aldona, Robert Mendonsa and Valerian Fernandes interspersed with scenes–florescent images illuminated by ultraviolet lights–which articulated the fable of man begging for a longer life by borrowing years from animals.

Audio Review by J P Pereira - Tribute to Fr Thomas

Manfa Music, Margao presents Edwin D’Costa’s tribute to Fr Thomas, on an audio album with the same title. Fr Thomas was the young priest who drowned while trying to save the life of others.

Confluence of two cultures

BY ARTI DAS | NT NETWORK
The Museum of Christian Art, one of the best kept museums of Goa, is the finest example of Indo-Portuguese art and history. ‘The Navhind Times’ explores the museum and chapel that is now getting a new lease of life

Maximising Human Assets

By Ranjana Kakodkar
In the conference room of XYZ company, are seated several tense people. One group represents the company’s union, fronted by a tough talking union leader; who right now, has smoke coming out of his ears! The other group, albeit, a tad more sophisticated in their attire look equally ready to do battle.

Many Splendours of Mirror Work

By Brinda Bose
Of all contemporary embroidery forms, mirror-work is rated as the most charming, trendy and popular, both in urban and rural India. Its twinkling patterns have come to adorn a variety of items of daily utility – from back-less blouses and bed spreads to wall hangings, shoes, lampshades and upholstery.

Meeting of classical masters at Pt Jitendra Abhisheki Sangeet Mahotsav

The seventh Pandit Jitendra Abhisheki Sangeet Mahotsav jointly organised by Kala Academy, Department of Art and Culture, and Tarangini Sanskiritk Pratishthan will be held on October 2 and 3. This was revealed at a press conference by Mr Shaunak Abhisheki.

Supreme court admits deferment plea on ayodhya verdict, stays verdict on the title dispute / supreme cour stays verdict on ayodhya title, to hear deferment plea on sept 28

Ravi’s security upgraded following threat to family

Story Summary: 

The state government has upgraded the security cover to the Home Minister, Mr Ravi Naik in view of threat perception even...

PANAJI: The state government has upgraded the security cover to the Home Minister, Mr Ravi Naik in view of threat perception even as both his sons, Mr Ritesh Naik and Mr Roy Naik have been provided with a security cover following inputs received by the state police that there was a possible threat to their security and safety.

Murder accused shot dead at Anjuna

Story Summary: 

One Samprit Chandrakant Malvankar, aged 22 and a resident of Anjuna was shot dead by an unidentified assailant at a bar at Anjuna on Wednesday evening.

MAPUSA: One Samprit Chandrakant Malvankar, aged 22 and a resident of Anjuna was shot dead by an unidentified assailant at a bar at Anjuna on Wednesday evening. Samprit was a key accused in the Salgaonkar murder case that had rocked Anjuna in November 2009. The father-son duo involved in the murder case were out on bail. 

CM asks Goans to maintain calm

PANAJI: The Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat has said that the administration has on Wednesday decided to step up security in the state to maintain peace and avoid any untoward incident in view of the Allahabad High Court judgement scheduled to be delivered on Friday.

Pernem’s Gabion wall faces collapse

Erwin Fonseca | NT
MAPUSA:  A Rs 6 crore effort by the Water Resources Department to protect the Kerim shore is heading for disaster, thanks to heavy rains that lashed the area this monsoons.
Built about three years back, the famed Gabion wall, which was touted as the best solution to keep soil erosion in check is facing imminent collapse.

Low-floor KTC buses to hit the road soon

PANAJI: The much awaited globally used low-floor 42-seater buses, that were to be inducted into the Kadamba Transport Corporation (KTC)’s  fleet of buses, are likely to hit the road within the next fortnight as the state government has sanctioned ` 3.75 crore for the vehicles.

Seafarers union asks for 2 weeks time to sort out ex-gratia issue

MARGAO: The meeting between the National Union of Seafarers of India and the Goan Retired Seamen Welfare Association before the South Goa Collector generated much heat on Wednesday.

Two new ships to increase operational capabilities of Goa naval area

Story Summary: 

Rear Admiral Sudhir Pillai, the flag officer commanding Goa naval area, saluting during the positioning ceremony of INS Kondul and INS Cankarso ships, at MPT berth, Vasco on Wednesday. (Sudesh Bhosle)

VASCO:  Rear Admiral Sudhir Pillai, the flag officer commanding Goa naval area on Wednesday said Sagar Prahari Bal - the wing of the Indian Navy, entrusted with the responsibility of patrolling India’s shallow water, will be commissioned either by the end of December or in January next year.

Police arrest mastermind in dacoity case

MARGAO: In a major breakthrough, the Maina-Curtorim police arrested Rafic Khatib, a resident of Ravanfond, Margao, who is believed to be the mastermind behind the daring daylight robbery, that was reported in may at Akkamol-Ambaulim.

Sanquelim hotel catches fire

BICHOLIM: The Bicholim fire services station officer informed that a fire at a hotel in Virdi, Sanquelim, destroyed property worth around Rs 50,000.

Per Suraulim resident booked for attempted murder

MARGAO: The Colva police, late on Tuesday night, registered an offence against Sudan D’Costa of Per-Seraulim, for allegedly attempting to commit murder of 32-year-old, Sanjay Fortes, also a resident of Per-Seraulim. Colva police said that Sanjay has been admitted in Margao Hospicio hospital with severe injuries.

Good canataram entertain viewers in ‘Montri’

Willy Goes
The story begins with Alisha (Alisha Souza) being accosted by her boyfriend’s best friend, who subsequently tries to rape her. Her boyfriend Sandry (Sandry Fernandes) happens to be a minister’s son. Alisha hits him on the head with a flower pot in self-defence, but the injured assailant makes good his escape.

‘Motiyancho’ Ganapati attracts crowds

The Ganapati idol made by the Young Boys of Boca de Vaca has grabbed a fair share of attention for the spectacular and creative presentation of Lord Ganesha. Made entirely of artificial jewels it is indeed a vision of beauty and art.

The temperamental genius that was Chris Perry

BY CLARA A RODRIGUES | NT NETWORK
Success is sweeter if your work is noticed and appreciated. Chris Perry, one of Goa’s greatest musical legends, credited with taking Konkani music to the summit, did not always meet with the deserved recognition.

Beat Beauty Killers

The rains bring in cool winds, lush greenery and the musical sound of raindrops, but they also bring in a number of diseases which are potential killers of beauty. In this season raw salads should be avoided, eat hot and well-cooked food.

Rama Foti Gaonkar wins matoli competition

The Directorate of Art and Culture, Panaji recently organised a matoli competition during Ganesh Chaturthi. The department every year organises the contest with an objective to preserve and promote the age-old tradition of the matoli.

The fading instruments of Goa

BY PRATIMA ACHREKAR| NT NETWORK
Gone are the days when of the more traditional musical instruments like the shenai, surt, surpanvo, surpanvo and nagsher. No longer do we see them being played at temples, sacred ceremonies, gauda cantaram sessions, etc. The question that arises then is, where have these musical instruments gone? Are they not made anymore or has the increased used of electronic musical devices brought an end to a glorious era?

Sushil Koirala elected Nepali Congress president

KATHMANDU: The Veteran Nepali Congress leader, Mr Sushil Koirala was today elected President of the country’s oldest democratic party, defeating his nearest rival and ex-premier, Mr Sher Bahadur Deuba by a margin of 335 votes, shortly before he was admitted to hospital for treatment of pneumonia.

Pak calls for US intervention in Kashmir

NEW YORK: Pakistan has asked the international community, particularly the US, to intervene in Kashmir in resolving the contentious issue which is central to peace in the region. “The occupation cannot continue. The rights of the Kashmiri people cannot continue to be denied,” the Pakistan Foreign Minister, Mr Shah Mahmood Qureshi said yesterday.

Designer shoes carrying images of Hindu deities withdrawn

WASHINGTON: Designer shoes carrying pictures of Hindu deities were withdrawn from sales in the US after an outcry by the Indian community here.

Next 10 days decisive for Mideast peace: Palestine

UNITED NATIONS: The next 10 days will be key for the future of the Middle East peace talks, a Palestinian spokesperson has told a news agency as negotiators sought ways to end a standoff over Jewish settlements.

Now, false ceiling portion falls off at CWG venue

NEW DELHI: In further embarrassment, parts of a ceiling at Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, the main Commonwealth Games venue, fell on Wednesday but the Centre and Delhi government remained unfazed by the all-round attack over such incidents and instead targeted the media for highlighting “minor glitches.”

Chidambaram appeals for peace ahead of Ayodhya verdict

NEW DELHI: Appealing for peace ahead of Friday’s pronouncement of the Ayodhya title verdict, the Home Minister Mr P Chidambaram on Wednesday said it would be inappropriate to reach any hasty conclusion that one side has won or that the other side has lost.

SC declines hearing plea urgently to defer Ayodhya verdict

NEW DELHI: The Supreme Court on Wednesday declined to hear urgently a plea to postpone the Ayodhya title suit verdict and barring any last minute intervention it will be delivered by the Allahabad High Court as scheduled on Friday.

BJP, LJP, Left unite over dialogue in Jammu & Kashmir

NEW DELHI: After their visit to Jammu and Kashmir, the Bharatiya Janata Party, Left parties and the Lok Janashakti Party pushed for dialogue with the people of the state as a solution to resolve the vexed situation, but remained divided on withdrawal or dilution of the controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA).

Plea to defer Ayodhya verdict filed in SC

NEW DELHI: With just two days left for the verdict on Ayodhya title suit dispute, a petition was filed in the Supreme Court Wednesday seeking deferment of the judgement and to allow mediation.

Dempo meet AIFF XI in Fed Cup today

MARGAO: An intriguing tussle is in the offing as I-League champions Dempo Sports Club clash with AIFF XI in a crucial tie of Group C in the Federation Cup at the Guru Nanak stadium in Ludhiana on Thursday at 2pm.

Nagoa pip Vagator, qualify for play-offs

MAPUSA: Nagoa Sporting Club secured their spot in the play-off rounds of the GFA 3rd Division League with an exhilarating 3-2 win over Parish Youth Vagator at Chapora grounds, on Wednesday.

Brandon leaves for Cape United training

MARGAO: One of Goa’s brightest footballers, Brandon Fernandes yesterday left for South Africa for the Cape United Soccer Academy training. He was selected by the scouts of the famous coaching school for two-year training after Brandon had attended the trials in Cape Town last year.

Rosary claim women’s crown

Story Summary: 

Rosary College’s women’s team seen with chief guest Dr Radhika Nayak, Principal of SS Dempo College and other officials.

PANAJI: Rosary College, Navelim won the inter-college women’s football championships 2010-2011, defeating Carmel College 2-0 in the finals.
Genevia Martins scored in 24th minute and Ageema Rodrigues scored the second goal in the 48th minute. Dr Radhika Nayak, Principal of SS Dempo College was the chief guest for the final who awarded trophies and medals to the winners.

Public condolence meeting at Mehta hall

PANAJI: A public condolence meeting will be held at the Mehta Hall, Vasco da Gama, on September 25 to condole the passing away of an ardent sportsman and keen badminton player,

SAG PYKKA taekwondo competition rescheduled

Goa beat J&K to enter quarters

St Xavier’s lift men’s trophy

PANAJI: St Xavier’s College, Mapusa won the inter-college men’s football championships 2010-2011, defeating Fr Agnel College 5-1 in the finals.

Dr Susana inaugurates national taekwondo meet at Vasco

VASCO: The 41st National Taekwondo boys sports meet 2010 was inaugurated on Wednesday at Kendriya Vidyalaya-I at Varunapuri, Mangor Hill in Vasco.

Goa’s healthcare industry projected at RS 1000 cr in 3 yrs

Story Summary: 

The Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat cutting the ribbon to mark the inauguration of Wockhardt hospital in the presence of chairman of Wockardt Group, Dr Habil Khorakiwala, Capt N A Hiranandani and Zohabia Khorakiwala at Cuncolim on Wednesday. (Ganadeep Sheldekar)

PANAJI: The healthcare industry in Goa, comprising hospitals and allied sectors, is projected to grow in leaps and bounds to touch over Rs 1,000 crore in the next three years, according to sources at the official inauguration by the Chief Minister, Mr Digambar Kamat of the Rs 60 crore NUSI Wockhardt Hospital in Cuncolim.

Gujarat, Goa tie up to increase tourist flow

PANAJI: Gujarat Tourism, which now has Bollywood icon Amitabh Bachchan as its brand ambassador, has increased the development of more hotels in the state.

Sensex dips below 20K mark; Nifty below 6K

MUMBAI: A day after scaling the 20,000-mark, stock market benchmark Sensex fell from its high level and ended about 60 points down as investors preferred to book profit amid weak global cues. Snapping a three-day consecutive rally, the Bombay Stock Exchange’s 30-share index closed lower by 59.83 points, or 0.30 per cent, at 19,941.72 points,

Private PF trusts can pay 9.5% interest: EPFO

NEW DELHI: Brushing aside apprehensions, retirement fund manager EPFO on Wednesday said PF trusts which set up by corporates can pay a higher interest rate of 9.5 per cent for 2010-11 as they may also have surplus in their accounts.

DPE secretary visits GSL

VASCO: The secretary to the Department of Public Enterprises (DPE), government of India, Mr Bhaskar Chatterjee visited Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) in Vasco recently. During the visit, a presentation was made to Mr Chatterjee regarding the growth of GSL from a barge building yard to a shipyard capable of designing and building ships for the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard.

Club Mahindra donates streetlights at Varca

Sesa Goa donates light fixtures

Nano to be 2nd bestselling car by 2011

NEW DELHI: Nano, the small car from the Tatas, is projected to become India’s second best selling car next year, according to market research firm JD Power.

When your investments fall below expectations?

By Tensing Rodrigues
I had invested in Reliance Infrastructure Fund and Kotak Indo World Infrastructure Fund through NFO. As of today both the funds are not doing well and are not growing.

‘Growth’ isn’t Always a Good Thing

BY PRAFUL BIDWAI
IN a recent media interaction, Prime Minister, Dr Manmohan Singh hinted that he might reshuffle his Cabinet. We don’t know what its shape will be. But it’s near-certain that he’ll replace Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) junior minister, Mr Jairam Ramesh with someone more pliable and pro-industry.

Bicholim Shows the Way

WHEN it comes to garbage disposal, Panaji and Margao have been in the news for all the wrong reasons. Conflict among councillors and their inability to build a consensus on such a crucial issue as waste disposal continues to plague the two major cities. Panaji has the saddest story of garbage treatment plant to tell.

An Exemplary Punishment

The world discus champion Dani Samuels (Australia) has joined a long list of stars to pull out of the Commonwealth Games. His plea: It’s enough to worry about performing, worrying about where to sleep and walk is another thing.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Relax Lending Rules
IT was surprising to read that Forsche, the all-women taxi service (by women and for women) which has been plying the streets of Mumbai and Delhi is struggling to sustain as lending agencies (banks and micro-credit institutions) have refused to grant it loans (NT, September 20).

Home Minister’s sons to receive police protection after a robber discloses a plot to kill one of them

Workhardt Hospital opens in Cuncolim amidst protest by sacked employees and boycott bythe local MLA

Salim Ali sanctuary is home to rare bird

Story Summary: 

It is a well-known fact that beauty of Goa has been an attraction to the people from all over the...

PANAJI: It is a well-known fact that beauty of Goa has been an attraction to the people from all over the continent but it now has been revealed that even the avians seem to be attracted to the state and a classic example of this is seen in the form of Adjutant Stork, a huge migratory bird, which has made Dr Salim Ali bird sanctuary its home and is seen there throughout the year.

NGDRDA innovative idea finds favour with central agencies

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The North Goa District Rural Development Agency’s innovative idea of promoting agriculture and allied activities under...

PANAJI: The North Goa District Rural Development Agency’s innovative idea of promoting agriculture and allied activities under   the Mahatma Gandhi National Employment Guarantee Scheme has found favours with the central agencies, which have not only lauded the agency, but also provided additional funds for further implementation of the scheme.

CCP’s move to convert 18th June Road into pay parking draws flak

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Vehicles parked on 18th June Road. (Nandesh Kambli)

PANAJI: The decision of the Corporation of the City of Panaji to convert the entire 18th June Road into a pay parking zone has received strong opposition from various entrepreneurs, shopkeepers, hoteliers, businessmen and professionals, who operate from this area.

BJP to oppose pay parking along 18th June Road, municipal market

PANAJI: Stating that the Corporation of the City of Panaji is criminally responsible for the traffic congestion as well parking problems encountered in the city, the Leader of the Opposition and the city MLA, Mr Manohar Parrikar, on Tuesday, said that the Bharatiya Janata Party,

Smaller civic bodies find solution to garbage woes

MARGAO: Even as the smaller municipalities get set with their garbage treatment plants, the larger ones like Panaji and Margao, are still struggling to get their act together. The issue of the Margao Sonsoddo dump is even more ironic, as the head of the high powered committee, set up to monitor the project, is heralded by none other then the Chief Minister, who is also the local MLA.

80% private buses ply overcrowded: DoT

PANAJI: The director of the Department of Transport (DoT), Mr Arun Dessai, on Tuesday said that more then 80 per cent of the private buses are overcrowded at the bus terminus, contrary to the claims by the All Goa Bus Owners Association (AGBOA), that the buses are suffering losses as the public refuse to enter buses once the seats are occupied.

2 held for defying court orders

MARGAO: The Maina-Curtorim police have arrested two individuals, whose names were disclosed as Vishwas Bhosle and Vilas Bhosle, as offence was registered against them and warrants were issued in their names.

Casino operators consider withdrawing petition

PANAJI: The Division Bench of the High Court of Bombay at Goa, constituting of Mr Justice D G Karnik and Mr Justice F M Reis, heard the petition filed by the casino operators.

2 WJFACs to be inducted into Navy today

VASCO: With the aim to strengthen coastal security further, two water jet fast attack crafts (WJFACs) will be inducted into the Indian Navy on September 22, at 10 a.m.

No easy fixes for Sino-India boundary issue: Nirupama Rao

BOSTON: India and China have “vast differences” over the boundary issue which cannot be resolved in short duration with “easy fixes”, the India’s Foreign Secretary, Ms Nirupama Rao has said, while asserting that it is not a “primary obstacle” in normalisation of bilateral ties.

Teaching is a deadly job in Thailand

BANGKOK: Separatists have killed 135 teachers in southern Thailand over the past eight years in their efforts to rid the region of “Siamese infidels”, a human rights group said today.
 Since January 2004, insurgents in Thailand’s southernmost provinces of Narathiwat, Pattani and Yala have deliberately targeted school teachers in their fight against Thai rule.

Nine NATO troopers killed in chopper crash in Afghanistan

KABUL: A helicopter crash in southern Afghanistan killed nine NATO troops today in one of the deadliest incidents of the war, taking the overall death toll for foreign forces to an annual record.

Pakistan will always support the Taliban: US document

WASHINGTON: Some newly disclosed US government documents, obtained through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and recently posted on the website of the George Washington University National Security, have shed more light not only on early Taliban offers, but also on the role of Pakistan before and after the attacks.

Tibet’s nun scripts a sequel

KATHMANDU: A brave and moving story of loyalty and unquenchable spirit that began in Tibet nearly two decades ago has now got a sequel with one of its 14 heroines succeeding in escaping to India after an aborted earlier bid.

Bridge caves in at CWG venue

Story Summary: 

A fire official stands guard by the stairs leading to a collapsed footbridge linking a new road to the Jawaharlal Stadium, the main venue for the forthcoming Commonwealth Games, in New Delhi on Tuesday.  AFP

NEW DELHI: Under attack over preparations and cleanliness, the government on Tuesday faced further embarrassment when an under-construction foot overbridge collapsed injuring 27 people outside the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium, the main venue for the mega event.

700 kg marine snails seized from TN fishermen

KARAIKAL: More than 700 kg of marine snails, whose capture is prohibited to preserve the marine ecosystem, was seized by marine wing police from fishermen of neighbouring Nagapattinam district.

Suspected Pakistani spy held in Delhi

NEW DELHI: A suspected Pakistani spy, who was staying in the national capital for the last one year to conduct recce of Army installations, has been arrested, the police said on Tuesday.
Forty-three-year-old Shujat Haider, hailing from Lahore, was apprehended from an East Delhi locality on September 14, they said.

Jharkhand whistleblower living on a knife-edge

RANCHI: His petition led to the unearthing of the Rs 2,500-crore laundering scam allegedly involving former Jharkhand chief minister Madhu Koda. Two years later, things are not easy for Mr Durga Oraon, who finds his life shrouded by security and secrecy.

Churchill Bros, Chirag United gain full points

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Gagandeep Singh of Sesa FA chests a ball while Josimar Da Silva Martins of Chirag looks on at Vasco on Tuesday.

VASCO: Churchill Brothers Sports Club and Chirag United Sports Club collected full points, defeating Viva Kerala 4-0 and Sesa Football Academy 1-0, respectively in the 32nd Federation Cup 2010. Both the matches were played at Tilak Stadium in Vasco on Tuesday.

Chapora, Arpora share spoils

MAPUSA: Chapora Yuvak Sangh and Arpora Sporting Club shared a point each in their GFA 3rd Division League match following a 2-2 draw at Chapora grounds, on Tuesday.

Miracles emerge Sanguem football champs

PANAJI: Miracles High School, Sanguem scored a 2-1 win over Collem School to emerge as the Sanguem Taluka football champs in the tournament organised by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs at Sanguem Taluka Sports Complex grounds.

Nicol in World Open Squash semis

CAIRO: World number one Nicol David stayed on course for a record-equalling fifth women’s World Open squash title after crushing fellow Malaysian Low Wee Wern 11-2, 11-5, 11-2 to reach the semi-finals on Monday.

Promote spirituality, meditation among sportspersons: CM

PANAJI: “Spirituality and meditation should be promoted as developmental programmes for sportspersons. Apart from providing infrastructure and training from the perspective of attaining physical fitness, players need coaching in areas of positive thinking and human values. Only then would we be able to achieve holistic excellence in any sports activity,”

St Rita HS win volleyball tourney

6-a-side football at Cansaulim

Marliz Race from Margao to Cortalim on Oct 2

5-a-side soccer at Bastora on Sept 26

Goa pip Haryana in National School Games

St Sebastian-Marna emerge 7-a-side champs

Harshvardhan and Rajiv do it again

The 14th regional round of the Tata Crucible Business Quiz 2010 was held at the NIO, Dona Paula recently, and after a grueling but exciting regional final, Mr Harshvardhan Bhatkuley and Mr Rajiv D’Silva from Savoire Faire emerged victorious, while the team from Splash communication represented by Mr Ameya Mardolkar and Mr Anirudh Sen Gupta stood second. Ace quizmaster, Mr Giri Balasubramaniam hosted the quiz and awarded the prizes.

Documenting Konkani films

‘Konknni Cholchitram’ (Konkani Films), a book on Konkani films produced over the last 60 years - from ‘Mogacho Avando’ to ‘Mogachi Zor’ and ‘Bhuyarantlo Munis’ to ‘Paltadcho Munis’ - was released on Tuesday at an impressive ceremony in the city.

St Padre Pio – the priest with the Stigmata

By Fr Steve Rodrigues
September 23 is the feast of St Padre Pio, the first priest in the history of the Catholic Church to have received the Stigmata (the 5 wounds of Jesus). He is one of the greatest saints of all times

‘Anandotsav’ with Sri Sri

Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the world spiritual leader and founder of the ‘Art of Living’ will be visiting Goa on September 25. To commemorate the occasion, the Art of Living family, Goa chapter has organised ‘Anandotsav 2010’ which will be held in the blissful and divine presence of H H Sri Sri Ravi Shankar on Saturday, September 25 at 5.30 p.m. at Colva beach.

Goan talent displayed at Dekhawa competition

The Directorate of Art and Culture, Government of Goa recently organised a state level dekhawa competition in collaboration with M/s Waman Hari Pethe Jewellers-Mumbai for during Ganesh Chaturthi 2010.

Inspiring young green minds

This September, the National Green Corps, Goa, shall award the Environment and Energy Awards to the eco clubs, that have excelled in the respective categories, in order to provide a stimulus to the sustained efforts of the students of the eco club and towards encouraging and motivating the young green minds for a sustained future.

FII rally propels Sensex above 20K

MUMBAI: Upbeat foreign investors on Tuesday pushed the stock market benchmark Sensex above the 20,000 points-mark for the first time in 32 months, as they bet on companies that are driving the India growth story.

BSE commences mobile-based trading

MUMBAI: The Bombay Stock Exchange Ltd (BSE), India’s oldest stock exchange launched mobile-based trading on Tuesday through its 33 leading brokers, a senior exchange official said.

FM euphoric; govt on guard

NEW DELHI: As the benchmark Sensex crossed 20,000 points for the first time in 32 months, the finance ministry on Tuesday said investors are confident about the economy but the government is keeping a close eye on the situation.

Few takers for loans in Goa: bankers

By Michael Fisher
PANAJI: Goa is probably the only state in India where banks see the state as a milking cow, rather than focussing on trade and industries which have resulted in poor credit-deposit (C-D) ratio. Banks make their money in a lot of ways, such as moving deposit money to branches in other states, this does not affect the deposit base strength, bank sources said on conditions of anonymity.

‘US looking into India’s concerns on outsourcing’

BOSTON: India, which has conveyed its concerns to the US on outsourcing and H1B visa fee hike, has said the Obama administration is looking into the matter, which can be resolved in a “very reasoned and rationale way” given the maturity and increasing depth in bilateral ties.

LIC announces launch of Endowment Plus Policy

MUMBAI: Life Insurance Corporation of India on Monday announced the launch of Endowment Plus Policy, which is LIC’s second unit-linked pension plan under the new Insurance Regulation and Development Authority (IRDA) regime. Pension Plus was the first unit-linked pension plan under the new IRDA regime, LIC said in a statement here.

Gallantt Ispat IPO opens today

VA Tech sets IPO price band at Rs 1230-1310

MUMBAI: VA Tech Wabag Limited, a multinational player in the water treatment industry proposes to open its bid/issue period on September 22, for its public issue of equity shares of Rs 5 each for cash at a price band fixed

ICAR chalks out prog to boost farming

CHENNAI: Looking to boost farming sector growth by more than four per cent, Indian Council of Agricultural Research has chalked out a massive Rs 2300 crore programme on various projects, including research.

Planning for a secure future for your daughter