S P O T L I G H T

Punjabi optional subject in HP
SHIMLA, Feb 4 (TNS) — In a significant decision, which can have political implications, the state board of school education has introduced Punjabi as an optional subject for Class IX and X in the state. The board will conduct examination for the subject during the current academic session.

Muslim leader held
DHAKA, Feb 4 (Reuters) — The Bangladesh police arrested a senior official of a Muslim fundamentalist group today for questioning over unrest in Dhaka yesterday in which Islamic militants killed a policeman. The police said Moulana Mufti Amini, secretary-general of the group Islami Oikyo Jote, was held under the country’s Public Safety Act.

Pak’s new UAV
JAISALMER, Feb 4 (UNI) — Pakistan has built a new high-flying unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to increase its surveillance power, defence sources said. 

Rao’s son in hospital
HYDERABAD, Feb 4 (PTI) — Mr P.V. Ranga Rao, son of former Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha Rao, arrested in connection with a cheating case yesterday, was admitted to a hospital after he complained of chest pain last night, the police said.

11 die as ship sinks
JAKARTA, Feb 4 (AP) — A ship carrying Muslim refugees sank today off eastern Indonesia, leaving 11 persons dead and 11 others missing, the police said. The Leo Star II capsized in huge waves this morning after leaving the North Maluku capital of Tenate on the province’s main island of Halmahera.