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Canines face various violations at dog show
Goverment Primary School at Abadpura suffers a history of apathy
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Clinton Cerejo crooons his way to success
Gifted Assamese singer doles out soulful music at concert
760 DAV students get degrees
Minor girl escapes from Nari Niketan; arrested
Workshop on problems of farmers concludes
Corps of Signals completes 102 yrs
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Canines face various violations at dog show
Jalandhar, February 17 The show that was organised at Old Grain Market near DAV College, Jalandhar, was virtually a commercial event for scores of dog breeders and the organisers. While the participants paraded their pets in two different rings, scores of dog breeders, who had come from across Punjab and neighbouring states, were seen more interested in selling pups and semi-adult animals of different breeds. The show was organised at a venue full of slush and mud. Pargat Singh, MLA Jalandhar Cantonment, was the chief guest on the occasion. A survey by the Tribune team revealed that breeders had stuffed their pets in cages and dickeys of their vehicles without inadequate arrangements for their feed and medicare. Transported away from their mothers, pups (one to three weeks of age and hardly able to open their eyes) of different breeds were exhibited in tiny cages for sale. Breeders had even displayed the pups with ears chopped and tails docked, giving a burial to the guidelines of the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) and the Veterinary Council of India (VCI) on tail-docking and ear-chopping of the pups. Non-therapeutic tail-docking and ear-cropping amounts to mutilation and constitutes cruelty to animals - a punishable offence under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960.
Though the show was judged by Mario Magsaysay from Phillippines and Shyam Mehta from India, there was hardly anyone either from the district administration, animal husbandry department, People for Animal or other Animal Right activists who could feel the pain of the pups, separated from their mothers and kept in congested cages for long hours. Some breeders were, meanwhile, seen carrying bottles full of milk to feed the caged animals. The chief of the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA), Jalandhar, Dr, SS Bhatti, being president of the organiser club, was busy judging the dog events during the show. When asked on the violations and mismanagement, Bhatti said breeders could reach the venue, as they had to shift to the present place from previously fixed venue - Guru Gobind Singh Stadium - due to rain. “We never allowed the breeders to sell the animals inside the venue earlier,” he added. Dr Sandeep Jain, chief co-coordinator of the Care of Animals and Protection of Environment (CAPE) India, Punjab, expressed displeasure at the arrangements and the upkeep of the animals during the show. He said the exhibition and sale of the pups less than four weeks of age had been banned. Moreover, the chances of infection among underage pups during such events was high. A city-based former Honorary Wildlife Warden, Punjab, Chander Bhushan, claimed that such shows were being organised by making money and the authorities who were supposed to enforce the laws relating to the animal rights just enjoyed the events as they had been offered memberships by the organising clubs.
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Goverment Primary School at Abadpura suffers a history of apathy
Jalandhar, February 17 It plays a garbage dump for neighbours, needs furniture and houses a defunct upper storey. The Tribune had brought the school's plight to light in these pages last year, after which initially some interest had been shown, but over time, things went back to square one. The school, for the past many years, has played a dumping ground for neighbours who refuse to budge despite repeated requests from the staff. "Immediately after the previous report, the local councillor had got the school cleaned and garbage dumps had been burnt. While this went on for some days, now the neighbours continue to litter our premises. Almost every day we burn garbage mounds by the boundary and in the next few days, fresh ones are created. We have told neighbours to stop this many times, but no one listens." The neighbours, who share their boundary wall with the school, are said to be the regular offenders in this case. While until a month ago even addicts had been creating problems but the staff said about a month ago, the area SHO and ASI had come to their school and asked them to report any incidents of unruly behaviour by addicts or other residents to them. "Since then, addicts, at least are not bothering us as much." However, broken locks are still a regular feature at the school. "We can't lock the main door to avoid addicts sitting on the premises after school hours. Every time we have done that, the lock has been broken. So we stopped locking it." Staff also show the verandah roof dotted with marks from dirty balls and bent fan blades (in the verandah) as a result of these evening intrusions. Meanwhile, the school had been visited by the BPEO (Block Primary Education Officer) yesterday and the statements of the school staff as well as the neighbours were taken by the authorities for the inquiry into the matter. Staff said the authorities were also told about the other problems being faced by them and action had been promised. District Education Officer (Primary) said, "A team had been sent to the school yesterday to inquire into the matter. I will get a report by tomorrow which will be submitted to the Jalandhar DC by me tomorrow to be forwarded to the DGSE authorities." Meanwhile, speaking about the history of hooliganism and destruction of property at the school, the DEO said he would be taking up the matter with the DGSE specially at a meeting in the near future. "I am aware of the fact that due to the lack of chowkidars at schools, infrastructure of many schools have been harmed by people who break into them at night. Solutions to this problem will also be sought,' the DEO added. |
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Clinton Cerejo crooons his way to success
Jalandhar, February 17 Associated with a plethora of big names (Read: AR Rahman and Shankar, Ehsaan Loy) and esteemed projects in Bollywood, Clinton Cerejo is an artiste whose vital traits (as a musician) include tapping into various musical genres and moods with equal ease, thanks to his keen musical leanings as a child. His musical journey began at an early age of 17 by singing jingles. His association with big music banners began as a composer and arranger. While his recent foray into playback singing "Kya Karoon" (Wake Up Sid) introduced audience to a new side of his, his varied musical inclinations also include his role as a producer of gospel music along with his wife Dominique. His noted works include "Dil Chahta Hai", "Karthik Calling Karthik", "Wake Up Sid", "My Name is Khan", "Saathiya", "Kal Ho Naa Ho", "Bunty Aur Babli" and "Chak De India". He has crooned smooth and memorable numbers in "Wake Up Sid" and "Karthik Calling Karthik", among others. Apart from these, his "Coke Studio" outing has been a telling proof of his versatility and ability to portray soul, conflicts and a lurking darknesses in his complex, deep works (read: the many masterstrokes include the merging of Sufism and Christianity -both in thought and music - in the poignant "Dungar" which borrows from the Psalms as it narrates the eternal love tale of Sassi-Punnu, employing the gospel choir and the Sindhi strains of Sawan Khan Manganiyar). However, what's fascinating about his music story is, had it not been for his friends, the industry would probably have been devoid of such great talent. Almost about to pursue a degree in MBA, Clinton's academically inclined family was not so sure music would be the right choice for him, but thanks to his college friends (who included Dominique who he dated for five years) faith in his skill, he was convinced to choose his true calling. Talking to The Tribune, on the sidelines of a concert here, Clinton shed some light on his musical journey so far. Beginning: I was doing some vocal arrangements for Ranjit Barot when AR Rahman heard me. We met in about '97-98 and I joined him, for one of his projects. One of my initial Bollywood projects with Rahman was "Thakshak". I also collaborated with him for overseas projects - Michael Bolton's album. Later, we worked together on many other projects including many projects in the South. The "Wake up Sid" experience: "Kya Karoon" (the song) happened by chance. I had gone to Shankar's studio early one morning to dub for a song. After a month, I got a call that they wanted to make changes in a few lines of the song. I had only done it as guide vocals in my early morning voice and wasn't even expecting it would be chosen as the final thing. I wanted to re-dub. But my morning voice was probably liked and, hence, it was retained, making it my first solo vocal. Your early inspirations: I grew up listening to the music of Stevie Wonder, Sting, Quincy Jones. Indie music scene's influence on Bollywood: Lately, Bollywood is starting to reflect the work that is happening in the Indie scene. Albums like David are proof. There is a growing demand for Indie musicians among Hindi film projects. But Indie influences or experiments don't reflect as strongly in the regions (e.g. Punjab) as in Mumbai, your comments: Mumbai has always been the centre for experimentation and new ideas. But then regions like Punjab themselves have a very strong influence on the mainstream. Punjabi music always reflects strongly in Bollywood. Favourite genre: I stay away from comfort zones. Upcoming project: "Ek Thi Daayan" (background score, vocals). see also P2
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Gifted Assamese singer doles out soulful music at concert
Jalandhar, February 17 Coming from the lush green environs of Assam, Angraag Mahant is one of the few artists today, who maintains the tricky balance between understanding the need for commercial and electronic sounds and passionately retaining his loyalty to the folk Assamese roots, that he grew up on. This wisdom, coupled with his ceaseless ability to belt out something new every time, makes him one of the hottest sensations on the indie music arena today. Born to legendary Assamese folk singer Khagen Mahanta and mother Archana Mahanta, his parents’ musical background and understanding gave him a firm basis in music - both classical and folk. While his maiden musical outing was with his Assamese folk album Junaki Raati in 2004, the second - Sinaki Osinaaki came out in November 2009 and his other regional albums include Rangphul (a Bihu record), Gomeseng and Phagunor Gaan. His first taste of fame came with the TV series Dewarists - which earned acclaim for portraying rare musicians and memorable collaborations in fresh settings - featuring artists both from the Indian hinterland as well globally known Grammy awardees. While Papon shared space with Rabbi Shergill in the poignant episode 6, his Bollywood outings in films like Dum Maro Dum, I Am Kalam and recently Barfi and Inkaar got him much deserved popularity. He was also featured in the Coke Studio and his hit signature song for the MTV show Roadies just goes on to show the extent to which his musical ambit has grown - from a folk icon in Assam to a cult hit among youth across the nation. As he talked to The Tribune on the sidelines of the Coke Studio event in Jalandhar, what unfolded was a man blessed with charming wit and a deep love for his roots. Excerpts: On the Punjabi touch and The Dewarists: Though my first Punjabi collaboration was with Rabbi in The Dewarists, I have always loved Punjabi music since childhood. I have been a huge Jagjit Singh fan since childhood. Roots and the mainstream: I grew up in the house of an Assamese folk legend (father). Since childhood I was exposed to the intricacies of music, which have historic roots. I started with Assamese and owing to my parents I got exposed to all kinds of folk - Punjabi, Rajasthani, Nepali. While I begun with the music of the North East, I do realise that there is a need to make our music more interesting and viable in the context to today’s larger scene. It cannot stay in its respected (yet obscure) corner forever, it needs to get to the mainstream. East and West: Punjabi music is everywhere and it is addictive. But while I do not deny its appeal and charm, I do believe that Punjabi’s similarities with Hindi somewhere help it to be popular. When one sings in Oriya or Assamese, however, the public has no clue. Bollywood: Given the kind of music I was earlier practising, Bollywood music is an altogether different texture. It was a requirement as well and my sensibilities coupled with Bollywood created a strange but interesting space of a different kind. Own albums Vs singing for others: These are the different stories I tell. While in my album, I tell my story, my way, in a film, I narrate someone else’s story. On Baul or Rabindra Sangeet: I have not yet done music strictly in these disciplines but I am keen to get into different zones. Baul is inspired by the ancient Gwalpuria music disciplines of Assam. Bhatiali, Nazurul Giti and the like are very old disciplines. And the music from Gwalpara akin to Baul, is much about songs of life, nature, health, spirituality which have constantly figured in my songs. Do you consider yourself in a privileged position given your understanding of music and popularity? I should say yes to that. But I feel I have been blessed with parents who taught me that it was most important to be deep rooted, sensitive and good human being. They were well read and grounded. They travelled the world (reminds me of stories I grew up hearing of merchants who travelled, carrying salt). Their approach and whatever they had taught me have helped me in my search for honest music. A harmful present-day trend: Going for ‘chalta hai’ music. People make copies hoping to recreate the magic of known hits. But at the end of the day, this music is still going to be a duplicate and it will die out soon.
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760 DAV students get degrees
Jalandhar, February 17 The opening and closing ceremony was conducted by Prof Ravi Manuja, registrar of the college. Degrees were given to 760 graduate and postgraduate students of the session 2009-2010. Dr Arun Grover read the convocation address and congratulated students. He talked about the contribution of eminent teachers of Punjab in promoting the education in the past 150 years. Being an alumnus of the college, he shared his experience and journey with DAV College. He said pre-doctorate environment should be created in the colleges for promoting research-based education. Dr Arun Grover and principal Dr BB Sharma started the convocation by giving award of honour to seven professors of the college, who completed their doctorate degree. Among them were Dr Kiranjeet (history), Dr Manu Sood (physical education), Dr Ashok Kumar (Punjabi), Dr Rakesh Sharma (history), Dr Anoop Kumar (English), Dr Sanjay Sharma (biotech) and Dr Sumiti Kalia (biotech). On this occasion, vice-principal Prof PK Kapur and Prof PK Sharma, Dr CL Arora (former principal DAV College), Kundan Lal Aggarwal (Local College Managing Committee chairman), Surinder Mahe, OP Mahajan, Arvind Ghai (members of the managing committee), Prof SK Tuli were also present. Book release The department on Hindi of the Kanya Maha Vidyalaya organised a book release function to acknowledge Suresh Seth, a veteran journalist and novelist, for his contribution to Hindi literature. His latest book of short stories “Lapata Phoolon Ka Basant” was released on the occasion. Various research papers based on the writings of Seth were presented by Dr Vinod Kalra, Dr Rupika and Dr Anushobha, of the Hindi department. Dr Harmohinder Singh Bedi, retired dean, languages faculty GND varsity, Amritsar, presided over the function. Principal Dr Atima Sharma felicitated guests. Annual athletic meet The Rayat Bahra Group, under the supervision of Rayat Bahra Group chairman Gurvinder Singh Bahra, organised the 5th annual athletic meet 2013. Hoshiarpur SSP Dr Sukhchain Singh Gill was presented with an award of honour. Team players of all departments participated in the march past. Participants took the oath to play honestly and faithfully. After a cultural programme, there were competitions of 800 metre race for boys, 200 metre for girls, long jump, and high jump among students. Principal Dr Rajiv Sharma, Dr Kamlesh Kumari, Prof HS Dhami, Prof RS Salaria and others were present at the event. ‘Colours’ cultural show Mayor World School celebrated the annual cultural show of grades I and II. The show titled “colours” showed all colours of life in a short span of one and a half hours. Retd IPS RS Sandhu was the chief guest and DEO Secondary Jalandhar Neelam Kumari was the guest of honour on the occasion. Mayor World School chairman Rajesh Mayor and CEO Neerza Mayor were also present at the function. The programme began with the lighting of the lamp and a welcome speech by school principal JS Hundal. White colour that encompasses all other colours was the theme of the next dance performed by little ones. A colourful hindi song was followed by colour facts. Different “raas” were depicted through a well-choreographed act. An English song preceded by riddles on colours led to the next item “shades of India” depicting the rich heritage and culture of their vast motherland and the progress it has made and the pride that every Indian should feel at being a part of such a nation.
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Minor girl escapes from Nari Niketan; arrested
Jalandhar, February 17 The incident that occurred last evening has not only put a question mark on the functioning of the management of the home but also exposed the surveillance level at the place. A case under Sections 223 and 224 of the IPC was registered against the absconding minor girls and the gatekeeper of the home, Gurmail Singh. The gatekeeper was later arrested and granted bail. RPS Sandhu, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP), West, said the girl was involved in a case under Sections 363 and 366 of the IPC in a case in Mohali. She, along with her male friend, was produced before a court in Kharar, from where the judge had sent her to the juvenile home in Jalandhar for a safer custody. The ACP said the girl, after escaping from the juvenile home, took refuge at a house in Basti Shekh, where the residents of the house called her father. The ACP further added that the Jalandhar police had already contacted the Mohali police and laid a trap to nab the girl after her father contacted her on phone. As her father reached Jalandhar and went to Basti Shekh, the girl was nabbed again. During her questioning, ACP Sandhu said the girl revealed that she was abused and ill treated by other inmates of the Nari Niketan, and she also was unhappy with the infrastructure there. She was willing to rejoin her male friend, who was sent to jail by the Kharar court.
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Workshop on problems of farmers concludes
Jalandhar, February 17 Sant Sukhjit Singh of Nirmal Kuteya, Seechewal, inaugurated the workshop. SK Ahuja, GM, Wapcos Ltd and Vikram Singh from Naandi Foundation, Punjab, were key note speakers. Pramod Sharma presided over the workshop. Sant Surjit Singh said “There is no doubt that villages are in a state of neglect and under development due to defects in our planning process and investment pattern. But the potential in rural India is immense. The increasing purchasing power of the rural population will boost the national economy.” “Now the time has come when people should vote for water and purity of rivers. People’s power can only impress upon the political parties to review situation of water table going down. Nowadays, rivers have become drains,” he said. Vikram Singh said “People’s participation implies their active involvement in rural development, particularly development of disadvantaged groups that forms a major portion of rural population.” “Despite the success story of the Green Revolution, Punjab has been facing a crisis situation in the agricultural sector. This reversal of growth in agriculture has raised a serious question about the future sustainability of development in Punjab,” SK Ahuja said. Yuvsatta president Pramod Sharma said, “We have been conducting these kinds of workshops regularly. A similar event will be conducted on February 23 and 24 for the farmers of Narangpur village.”
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Corps of Signals completes 102 yrs
Jalandhar, February 17 The Corps has grown over the past 102 years into a versatile and vibrant force, matching the best in the world, making its mark in operations, both pre as well as post Independence era. Various events marked the day at a function organised here today. The events like display of Corps of Signals taekwondo, kalaripayattu, motor cycle riders dispatch team, best physique team, Corps military band, pipes and drums band teams enthralled all. — TNS |
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Jalandhar, February 17
