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encroachments
MC gets nine weeks
HC talks tough, says civic body has to take action
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, September 30
During the hearing of a contempt of court petition with regards to encroachments’ removal, the High Court today directed the Municipal Corporation to remove the encroachments in nine weeks’ time and file an affidavit in the court, providing details of the action taken against the encroachments.

An official said strict instructions were issued to the MC today that instead of referring each and every matter to the state government (relating to Chaura Bazar and constructions under the Town Planning schemes, etc), the MC authorities have to take action. It was observed that the MC had the authority to demolish the encroachments and even had the High Court’s orders, still it was not taking action.

“The next date of hearing in the case is January 27. The MC authorities had requested the court to provide eight weeks’ time to file the affidavit as the festival season was on. The MC has been granted nine weeks’ time to take action and file the affidavit, a copy of which has to be given to petitioner Rohit Sabharwal,” said the official.

The MC authorities feel helpless in taking action against the shopkeepers of Chaura Bazar due to political interference. The representatives from all the major political parties come in the way whenever action is planned against the encroachments in Chaura Bazar, Talab Bazar and other areas. Owing to immense political pressure, the MC authorities had referred a few such cases to the state government. But the High Court seems to be in no mood to listen to the excuses made by the authorities.

Political interference

The MC authorities feel helpless in taking action against the shopkeepers of Chaura Bazar due to political interference. The representatives from all the major political parties come in the way whenever action is planned against the encroachments in Chaura Bazar, Talab Bazar and other areas.

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Dept begins denotification process
Our Correspondent

Ludhiana, September 30
The curtain has finally been brought down on the ambitious waterfront city project of the Greater Ludhiana Area Development Authority (GLADA) as the Department of Housing and Urban Development, Punjab, has set the process in motion to denotify 1,599 acres falling in nine villages, which had been notified for this purpose.

Principal Secretary of the department concerned A Venu Parsad told The Tribune that the process had been initiated to denotify the land for which a notification under Section 4 of the Land Acquisition Act was issued on September 5, 2013. “Hopefully, the process (for denotification) will be completed in about a fortnight and revenue records amended accordingly,” he said.

The government had initially notified 2106.676 acres for the waterfront project but later 507.676 acres, where brick-kilns and other commercial establishments were located, was exempted. As per the conceptual plan of the project, it was to have an integrated industrial park, along with commercial pockets and residential areas.

The notification under section 4 of the Land Acquisition Act with the intent of acquisition of land for urban estate at Sahnewal was issued on June 5, 2013. The blue print of the project had envisaged providing some 300 acres to the existing domestic airport at Sahnewal for much needed expansion and infrastructure development.

Although the future of the Sahnewal urban estate hangs in the balance as of now, senior official of both the GLADA and the Housing and Urban Development Department have indicated that this project would also meet the fate of the water front city, simply because GLADA did not have enough funds to acquire land running into thousands of acres.

The plans for the expansion of the Sahnewal airport and extension of its existing runway are also likely to be grounded.

Question mark over industrial park, urban estate projects

The government decision to abandon the waterfront city project in view of the precarious financial position of GLADA has put a big question mark over the integrated industrial park and urban estate proposed to be developed in an area of 1125.42 acres in eight villages around Sahnewal. 

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Thieves steal 70 tolas gold, cash
Family returns from Sikkim to get shock of their life
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, September 30
There seems to be no stopping thieves in the city. Two thefts cases were reported in different parts of the city today.
In the first incident, thieves struck at the house of a businessman in the Durgapuri area and decamped with about 70 tolas of gold ornaments and Rs 1 lakh in cash. Besides, the thieves also laid their hands on expensive cameras, watches and silver ornaments kept in the house.

The theft came to light when house owner Pankaj Garg, a businessman, returned to his house along with his family. On opening the door, Pankaj was shocked to find his house ransacked. Soon, he informed the neighbours about the incident.

Pankaj Garg said he had gone to Sikkim in North-East to spend vacations along with his family.

The police reached the spot along with a team of fingerprint experts. They have not ruled out the involvement of an insider in the theft.

In the second incident, thieves struck at the house of Som Nath in Aggar Nagar here. Som Nath told the police that the thieves decamped with cash and gold ornaments kept in the house.

Som Nath, who works in a bicycle manufacturing unit, said the incident took place during daytime when his wife and daughter were away from the house.

Factory owner attacked, robbed of Rs 4 lakh

Nine armed assailants entered a factory unit on Kohara Road and fled with Rs 4 lakh. Sachpreet Singh, who was admitted to the hospital, said he was leaving for his house when nine persons entered his office and attacked him. He is the son of a former policeman.

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They work day, night to light up your Diwali
Shivani Bhakoo
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, September 30
Spending sleepless nights and keeping their hand and feet in mud throughout the day is what the potters of Ghumar Mandi are doing these days to make beautiful “hattis” (a small hut made of mud, which is used in the Diwali puja) and earthen lamps for the Diwali puja. The unfortunate part is that after putting in a lot of hard work, it is not the potters but shopkeepers and traders who get the maximum profit in the sales of these essential Diwali puja articles.

Around 25 potters of Ghumar Mandi have been working day and night churning “hattis” and earthen lamps in thousands. It is certainly not an easy job. They have to go all the way to villages of Mullanpur, Lalton, Ayali Khurd and other distant areas to get the appropriate mud for making these articles.

Usha, a potter who also works as a domestic help, said it had been a traditional work in their family for a long time. “We fetch the mud and knead it for several hours to make it smooth. Our hands get bruised while doing this. “Hattis” and made and kept under the sun for drying. These are painted with hands. My husband and sons also work till late hours to meet the orders,” she said.

When asked what did she charge for each “hatti, she said for 100 “hattis”, she was paid Rs 2,000 by a trader. But he sells each of them from Rs 70 to 150 each two days before Diwali.

Sheela, another potter, said they had no other choice but to sell their “hard work” at low rates to traders, as they had no shop. “If we want to put up a small stall, then we have to pay to a shopkeeper a lump-sum amount. But we do not know whether we will be able to get good returns, so there is no point paying the to lump-sum amount to shopkeepers,” said Sheela.

It is believed “hattis” bring happiness and prosperity.

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Police party attacked

Ludhiana, September 30
Three policemen, including an ASI, were injured at Adarsh Nagar, near Samrala Chowk, when they were attacked by the occupatants of a house this evening. The police had gone there to conduct a raid.

The injured ASI has been identified as Kashmir Singh. He was rushed to the hospital along with two other policemen. The police had got a tip-off that illicit liquor was being sold at the house. Sources said when Kashmir Singh, along with the police party, raided the house, he was attacked by the occupants of the house, who fled the scene. — TNS

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Inmates rescue undertrial attempting suicide in jail
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, September 30
An undertrial caught in an NDPS case allegedly attempted suicide by hanging himself from the grills of a ventilator located in the bathroom of the Central Jail on the Tajpur road here today.
The undertrial, identified as Rajwinder Kumar, a resident of Nawanshahr, was lodged in the jail on September 19.

According to information, some inmates spotted Rajwinder attempting suicide in the bathroom in the evening. They raised the alarm, following which Rajwinder was rescued. He was rushed to the jail hospital, where the doctors referred him to the Civil Hospital. However, Rajwinder’s condition deteriorated and he was taken to the PGI, Chandigarh.

Jail Superintendent SP Khanna said the undertrial was suffering from depression. He did not rule out withdrawal symptoms to be the reason behind his suicide attempt. He said investigation was on.

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COMMUNITY

Encroachers getting rent from illegal shanties
Shivani Bhakoo
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, September 30
At a time when a few residents, who have constructed their small houses in Prem Nagar are a worried lot as the Municipal Corporation could raze their structures anytime, there are many persons, including those having political links and financers who have been getting regular rent from those residing in shanties/vehras there.

These vehras have been constructed by them by taking possession of the government land in an illegal manner. The “owners” who themselves live elsewhere, are taking monthly rent between Rs 500 and Rs 1,500 from each family.

About 12 residents, who have constructed their small houses, had moved the courts against the eviction. Raj Kumar Raja, president, Prem Nagar Welfare Society, said action should be taken against persons who constructed jhuggis by grabbing the MC land.

“We are even ready to pay the price to the MC for the allotment. Our case should be considered as we are here for the past many years. Some of the “landlords”, having political links, are making quick bucks when we are in trouble, “ he said.

“They have rented out the government property and are extracting money from poor and needy, besides settling scores with the area councillor by defaming him for vested interests. The councillor has always stood with us in thick and thin and we want these vehras/shanties to be removed from here as we do not feel safe also,” said Raja.

Another resident, Daljit Kaur Cheema, alleged that the place had become a den for criminals as without any credentials, the government property was given on rent by the possession holders.

“We had approached the councillor over the matter but he has expressed helplessness in removing the shanties. The possession holders of these vehras and shanties are associated with one political party or the other and are shielding the criminal elements by getting monthly rent. Because the area councillor too understands our problem and has stood by us, many of them have started saying that it was the councillor who was taking the rent, which was absolutely wrong. In fact, residents in the area know who takes rent from these poor,” said Cheema.

The residents, including Kasturi Lal and Sita Mishra, said they themselves were fed-up with those residing in shanties due to whom the price of the land in the area had also come down.

“The persons who are not even residing here have given government land on rent. We are ready to pay the price and for this we have moved the court, too”, they said. In a particular chunk of land, about 12 persons had constructed vehras and put up shanties in which over 50 families were residing. From each family, rent in thousands were taken by the possession holders, which was against the law.

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Students examined for iodine deficiency
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, September 30
Survey of Iodine deficiency disorders under the National Iodine Deficiency Disorder Control Programme (NIDDCP) was conducted at Government Primary School, Ayali Kalanand Jassian, today.

Today a team under the supervision of Dr Anil Verma, District Epidemiologist, with its four members - Dr Jasleen Gill, medical officer, Sidhwan Bet; Balwinder Pal Singh and Veena Kumari, both health supervisers, Sidhwan Bet; and Parwinder Kaur, a female worker, - checked 90 students in the age group of 6 to 12 years at Government Primary School, Ayali Kalan, and 90 students of 6-12 years of age at Government Primary School, Jassian (Kumkalan).

All 180 children in the age group of 6 to 12 years were examined for goitre. Eighteen students were randomly selected for collecting urine samples and 36 salt samples were also taken from them which the children use at their home. Officials have visited 13 schools so far.

This survey will be continued till October 15 and 2,700 children in the age group of 6 to 12 years will be examined for goitre. As many as 270 urine and 540 salt samples will be collected during this period.

In both schools, teachers and the schoolchildren were made aware about cleaning of houses, schools and other areas and their surroundings under the the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan that was started recently and will continue till October 31.

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LUDHIANA SCAN

Dignitaries during a seminar on drug addiction at SAN Model High School in Ludhiana.
Dignitaries during a seminar on drug addiction at SAN Model High School in Ludhiana. A tribune Photo

Discussion on literature

The Punjab Sahit Academy will hold a discussion with their counterparts from the Central Institute of Classical Tamil, Chennai, on October 12 at the Punjabi Bhawan. On the occasion, ‘Tirukural’, a famous Tamil work that has been translated in Punjabi by Tarlochan Singh Bedi, will be dedicated to the public. Many dignitaries from the field of literature will take part in the event.

Awareness drive

Students of Shaheed-E-Azam Government Senior Secondary School, Bharat Nagar, were given awareness about cleanliness and hygienic conditions. Satish Sachdeva, former mass media officer of the Health Department was among those present. The students were told as how to prevent water and vector-borne diseases.

Books donated

Editor of ‘Anu’, a journal of short writings, Surinder Kaile donated 101 books to the libarry of his village, Butahari. He said the library had been helping in promoting and cultivating interest in reading among local residents. Books have been providing guiding the youth of the village who are now contributing to change and social development in the village, he added.

Honour ceremony

The Bhartiya Valmiki Dharam Samaj organised an honour ceremony here on Tuesday. On the occasion, office-bearers were elected for spreading the message of ‘Bhavadhas’ among the masses.

Eye camp

Lions Club Greenpeace, Ludhiana, in collaboration with Shankra Eye Hospital organised a free eye check-up camp at gurdwara Shri Arjun Dev, Shimlapuri. As many as 156 patients got their eyes examined during the camp. Sixteen patients were operated free of cost.

Issues of industry discussed

Members of the United Cycle and Parts Manufacturers Association met Director, Industries and Commerce Department Raminder Singh. Charanjeet Singh Vishivkarma, president, discussed the issues faced by the industry. Issues related to Value Added Tax were discussed in detail. In the meeting, an assurance was also given that they would arrange a proper meeting with the Deputy Excise and Taxation Department of Ludhiana so that the matter could be discussed and the process for refunding of VAT would be initiated immediately.

Seminar on drug addiction

The Yuva Shakri Parishad organised a seminar on drug addition and spread awareness about its dangers and prevention at SAN Model High School. Vice-president of the organisation Manish Bhardwaj said there was a need to save the youth from social evils like drug addiction. He said the country could only progress if its youth was healthy. — TNS

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Seminar dwells on developing air freight logistics policy
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, September 30
The Asia Aviation Associates and the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) organised a national-level seminar on ‘Air Freight Stations and Logistics’ with an objective to sensitise the industry in Punjab to the potential and issues in developing an air freight logistics policy, which is aimed at boosting exports, especially from Tier II or Tier III cities.

M Kannan, economic adviser, Ministry of Civil Aviation, in his keynote address outlined the broad policy contours whereby the Central Government is planning to setup air freight stations (AFS) in Tier II or Tier III cities, which were important from the point of view of manufacturing and where commercially active airports could not be developed.

Kannan shared with the house that the AFS in these locations would act as facilitators where all legal paper works and custom clearances related to export of goods woudl be done in a simplified manner. DL Sharma, past chairman, CII, Punjab State Council, and director, Vardhman Textiles Limited, in his opening remarks highlighted issues faced by the local Industry, especially the export-oriented units in shipping their consignments on time as also receiving goods and machinery imported from other parts of the globe.

Tushar Jani, vice-president, Air Cargo Forum India, and chairman, Cargo Service Centre India Private Limited, spoke on the need to have seamless processes and movement of goods and the need for synergy between the logistics and core manufacturing so that boundless opportunities could be created for the industry.

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Insurance firm opens office at Dehlon

Mandi Ahmedgarh, September 30
New India Assurance Company Limited has drafted a plan to provide easy access to insurance-related needs to residents of all villages and rural localities of the border state.
This was stated by Surjit Singh Hira, deputy general manager, New India Assurance Company Limited, Ludhiana, after inaugurating the organisation’s micro office at Dehlon, near here, today.

While addressing a gathering of office-bearers and activists of various social, educational and financial organisations of the area, Hira claimed that the management of the company was committed to fulfill the Union Government’s objective of financial inclusion within the stipulated period.

Claiming that the company had already achieved the desired targets of expansion, Hira said insurance-related needs of residents of villages and hamlets would be fulfilled at their doorsteps in due course of time. — OC

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BUSINESS NEWS

YVS Vijay Kumar, CEO, Mahindra First Choice Services, addresses a press conference in Ludhiana on Tuesday.
YVS Vijay Kumar, CEO, Mahindra First Choice Services, addresses a press conference in Ludhiana on Tuesday. Photo: Inderjeet verma

MFCS workshop inaugurated

Mahindra First Choice Services (MFCS) on Tuesday inaugurated a Company Owned Company Operated (COCO) workshop in Ludhiana. The new workshop will offer quality services to car owners through skilled technicians, quality spare parts, state-of-the art equipment, robust processes, free pick up and drop facility and an opportunity to book services online.

 “We see great potential for the multi-brand car servicing market in Punjab which is clear from the encouraging response we have received from customers to our existing workshop in Ludhiana. This has prompted us to further strengthen our presence in the region with additional workshops,” said YVS Vijay Kumar, CEO, Mahindra First Choice Services. — TNS

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feedback

Road cries for attention

The road from the Railway Crossing near Chet Nagar to the traffic light point near Arora Cinema, Gill Road in Ludhiana is in a poor state. This small stretch has deep pitches and potholes. The road carries a heavy volume of traffic. All kinds of vehicles in a large number ply throughout day and night on it. Besides the bumpy ride, commuters have to suffer losses to their vehicles also. Moreover, everyone passing from the stretch is risking his or her life. During elections, tall claims of development are made by political parties. After winning the elections, no one cares about these issues concerning public. It clearly shows that politicians are simply befooling the public. Even after paying the taxes, the maintenance of roads and other facilities are not carried out timely. People have to suffer for none of their fault. Hence, the authorities are should wake up from its slumber and discharge their duties towards the public.
Jaswant Singh
Ludhiana

Schools should have pressure relief breaks

Earlier, schools were temples of learning and knowledge, but now with the emergence of new technology and techniques there is an undue burden and pressure on schoolchildren. Schools should have fruit breaks or pressure relief breaks for 10 minutes in which students can have fruits and milk which will give them fibre and refresh their mind. In many cities of the country, such breaks have already been started. It should be made mandatory in Punjab schools also. Outlets of Mother Dairy and Verka should be opened so that children can have milk products at schools also. The government should look into the matter seriously.
Navneet Arora
Ludhiana

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‘Unauthorised’ building faces sealing
Owner told to pay Rs 1.37 crore to Municipal Corporation within seven days
Shivani Bhakoo
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, September 30
A demand notice has been issued to M/S Jawand Sons, Bholapur, Mundian Kalan, Chandigarh Road, to pay a sum of Rs 1.37 crore to the Municipal Corporation within seven days, else their “unauthorised” building will be sealed.

The notice has been issued by the Assistant Town Planner (ATP) through letter number 1971/ATP-B dated September 26. The notice says that as per the guidelines of the State Government, colonies/plots before April 1, 2013, were to be regularised, whereas the particular case (Jawand Sons) was “misrepresented” before the authorities for getting the regularisation certificate.

Since the building was constructed after the due date kept by the State Government, as per assessment by the corporation, a sum of over Rs 1.69 crore had to be deposited by the owner of the building, out of which an amount of Rs 32.45 lakh was deposited. The remaining amount of Rs 1.37 crore had to be deposited to the Municipal Corporation by the owner within seven days else the particular building will be sealed.

Following the demand orders released by the ATP, RTI activist Rohit Sabharwal has complained to the Chief Director, Vigilance, against the then ATP Harpreet Ghai for being “hand-in-glove” with the building owner.

Sabharwal said Ghai was given additional charge of Zone B. During that period, the building was given the certificate.

“Before checking the credentials, the certificate was issued to the building owner. Though a formal complaint was also filed against the building, officials preferred to look the other way due to which the MC had to bear huge losses. It was the duty of the officials to check everything before issuing the certificate,” said Sabharwal.

Harpreet Ghai denied the allegations and said an undertaking was taken from the owner that applicant should be responsible for any misrepresentation of his/her application.

“No site visit was conducted as it is not feasible to visit each and every building. But if there is misrepresentation of facts, the MC can send the demand notice and the owner is responsible for that. I am nowhere in the picture,” said Ghai.

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Shradha Ram Phillauri’s birth anniversary celebrated
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, September 30
The Pandit Shradha Ram Phillauri Memorial Welfare Society celebrated the birth anniversary of Pandit Shradha Ram Phillauri at Navdurga Mandir, Sarabha Nagar, here today.
KK Bawa, chairman of the society, other members of the society and MP Ravneet Singh Bittu apart from many others were present on the occasion.

As many as 21 persons were presented with the Ludhiana Ratan Award on the occasion. HS Bedi, who has written three books about Pandit Shradha Ram Phillauri, was especially honoured on the occasion.

Bittu said apart from being a freedom fighter, Pandit Phillauri also wrote aarti “Om Jai Jagdish Hare”.

Bittu said he would write to the state government to bring out a postage stamp in the honour of Pandit Phillauri and establish a chair at a university in his name.

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IMA to spread awareness on use of antibiotics
Manav Mander
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, September 30
Antibiotics can be lifesavers, but misuse has increased the number of drug-resistant germs. Antibiotic resistance occurs when antibiotics no longer work against disease-causing bacteria. These infections are difficult to treat and can mean longer lasting illnesses, more doctor visits or extended hospital stays and the need for more expensive and toxic medications and can sometimes even lead to death.

Faced with the scary prospect of losing lives to simple infections in the future, the medical fraternity is finally waking up to the dangers of reckless antibiotic use. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) is launching a nationwide awareness programme against overuse of antibiotics, which have led to emergence of drug-resistant organisms.

The IMA will also ask fellow practitioners to avoid unnecessary prescriptions such as recommending antibiotics for patients with fever and cold, which are generally caused by viral infections.

“In the past two decades, almost no new antibiotic has been discovered while bacteria have learnt to overcome the existing ones. If we don’t conserve our antibiotics, a day will come when simple infections will become life threatening,” said Dr Maninder Dhir, member of the IMA.

The IMA plans to hold public lectures and create awareness in this regard.

“Understand when antibiotics should be used. Don’t take antibiotics every time you are sick. Antibiotics are effective in treating most bacterial infections, but they are not useful against viral infections such as cold, acute bronchitis or flu. Even some common bacterial ailments such as mild ear infections don’t benefit much from antibiotics and don’t pressure your doctor for antibiotics if you have a viral illness. Instead, talk with your doctor about ways to relieve your symptoms,” said another senior doctor from the city.

‘Stop prescribing antibiotics for fever, cold’

The Indian Medical Association will ask fellow practitioners to avoid unnecessary prescriptions such as recommending antibiotics for patients with fever and cold, which are generally caused by viral infections.

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MC employee suspended
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, September 30
Bali Ram, an employee of the Municipal Corporation, was put under suspension today.
Bali Ram was found scaling the wall of his office in Zone D when Mayor Harcharan Singh Gohalwaria conducted a surprise check in the office to find who come late.

When Bali Ram saw the Mayor at the front gate, he scaled the wall to reach his office from behind the Zone D office. The Mayor conducted an inquiry and many others who were found coming late were issued warnings.

The Mayor found Bali Ram scaling the wall. He was later suspended.

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Lack of dining etiquette can create awkward situation: Expert
Gurvinder Singh
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, September 30
Dining etiquette has assumed the importance with globalisation and increasing professional meetings over meals.Renu Mehra, an image consultant from Delhi, who was in the city today, organised a workshop on dining etiquette.

She said: “Dining etiquette is a part of the personal and professional image that you portray during a business talk. The lack of such etiquette can create an awkward situation”.

The workshop was organised on the occasion of the launch of Diwali collection by Elvy Lifestyle.

“A woman must not keep her bag at the back of the chair as it may get entangled with the waiter’s shoes. If a woman is carrying a clutch, she can keep it in the lap below the napkin,” she said.

“The goblet should be held from the stem as a touch may alter the temperature and the flavour of the drink,” Renu said.

“The temperature of champagne is 5 degree Celsius and wine is served best at 5 to 10 degree Celsius. Red wine is supposed to be served at 15 to 17 degree Celsius,” she said.

She said: “The principle of ‘BMW’ etiquette should be followed. Bread should be kept on the left, main dishes in the middle and water and drinks should be kept on the right while dining”.

“There is a norm regarding the level of business discussed over the meals as well. Over breakfast, it is supposed to be 20 per cent polite talk and 80 per cent business. It is supposed to be 50-50 per cent for lunch and 80 per cent polite talk and 20 per cent business for dinner,” she said.

“First meeting should not be held over dinner, which is rather supposed to cement your relation further with the client,” she said.

“There is much more to dining etiquette that can make or mar one's business success so one must spruce the etiquette for image building,” she said.

Diwali collection by Elvy Lifestyle

The collection includes decor pieces and gifts like candle stands, dinner sets, lamps, colourful cushions. 

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Students, staff made aware of liver, breast cancers
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, September 30
The medical fraternity celebrates October as World Liver Cancer Awareness Month and World Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
To mark these occasions, Dr Navdeep Singh, a cancer specialist, delivered a lecture at the Gujranwala Guru Nanak Institute of Management and Technology here to create awareness about liver and breast cancers today. About 300 students and faculty members attended the informational session.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Navdeep Singh, Head of the Cancer Department, Global Heart and Super-Speciality Hospital, said: “Liver cancer is amongst top 5 cancers in Punjab. It causes death within one year from diagnosis. So, only preventive attitude can save Punjabis from this dreadful disease.”

Explaining the causes, he said: “Liver cancer is caused by alcohol, liver viruses and liver fungus. All these are preventable. Alcohol damages the liver. Damaged liver is called cirrhosis and leads to cancer. Liver viruses attack and damage the liver-causing cancer”.

Dr Navdeep advised the people to avoid sharing needles by using safe and disposable IV needles, not to indulge in activities with multiple sexual partners and ensure safe blood transfusion.

Dr Navdeep said people who consume alcohol regularly should get ultrasound test of the liver every 6 months to detect the hidden cancer early.

October is also celebrated as Breast Cancer Awareness Month throughout the world.

Shedding light over the issue, Dr Navdeep said breast cancer is the most common type of cancer found among women in urban Punjab.

Dr Navdeep said people should make changes in their lifestyle for reducing the chances of getting cancer.

He said: “Women should develop an exercise routine in daily schedule. They should increase the percentage of leafy and green vegetables in daily food intake. Daily consumption of garlic, tomatoes and turmeric is healthy as these have anti-cancer properties and it reduces the chances of getting cancer”.

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Medical centre gets award
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, September 30
Sibia Medical Centre received the Global Healthcare Excellence Award - 2014 in the category of the “Best Institute for Non-Surgical Heart Treatments in India” for extraordinary contribution in the field of non-invasive cardiology.
Directors Dr SS Sibia and Dr Harpreet Kaur Sibia received the award.

“Coronary heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide,” said Dr Sibia.

He was happy that after years of hard work the concept of non-invasive preventive cardiology introduced by them has finally received national recognition and is gathering momentum and other doctors are following.

“International medical journals have now published positive results of Chelation Therapy and External Counter Pulsation clinical trials. But, the take home message she gave is that prevention is better than cure and lifestyle modification is the cornerstone to prevent and control heart disease and should be adopted as early as possible,” said Dr Sibia.

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Another dengue case reported
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, September 30
The total number of patients diagnosed with dengue in Ludhiana hospitals has gone up to 35.
A 56-year-old patient, belonging to Salem Tabri, was admitted to the Civil Hospital here on Tuesday. The patient was tested positive for dengue.

Under the direction of Civil Surgeon Subash Batta and under the supervision of Dr Anil Verma, District Epidemiologist, checking of coolers was done at various places for breeding of aedes aegypti (larva of dengue).

In Haibowal Khurd, larva was found in two pots, one tank, two tyres and 10 coolers.

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Rural schools in a shambles
Jaswant Shetra

Jagraon, September 30
Government schools in Sidhwan Bet area speak volumes of the alleged apathy of the government. Dearth of classrooms, inadequate staff, broken chairs and blackboards, overgrown weeds, dysfunctional electrical appliances and seepage in classrooms have become a common feature at the government schools in the rural area.

It is learnt that most of the schools here have not been revamped for several years now.

“Wards of people, belonging to financially sound background, study in public or convent schools. But, where should the underprivileged students study?” questioned Sohan Singh Salempuri, a well-known social activist, who has been running pillar to post to get the schools in the rural areas upgraded for last many years.

The Bet area has a thick population, living below the poverty line. In such a situation, it becomes all the more important to have good government schools.

The residents of the area have termed tall claims of the government about raising educational standards of the rural schools as baseless.

“The residents of the villages have been demanding improvement in educational infrastructure for several years too, but their demands have not been met yet. Even the political parties made tall claims but no politician has paid any attention towards the pathetic condition of government schools in the area so far,” said a teacher of a government school, on the condition of anonymity.

Some of the walls in the schools have even collapsed while others are so brittle that they may collapse anytime.

In the absence of proper classrooms, students are often forced to study in the open in the scorching heat.

The district education officer (Secondary), Paramjit Kaur, said schools in rural areas are inspected at regular intervals. “Funds are also released for various schools time to time. If any school requires funds for upgradation, the authorities of that particular school should write to the department and the funds for the same will be released at the earliest,” added Kaur. 

OFFICIAL SPEAK

If any school requires funds for upgrade, the authorities should write to the Education Department and the funds for the same will be released at the earliest, said the District Education Officer (Secondary), Paramjit Kaur.

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Donations pour in for flood-hit J&K
Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, September 30
“Drops of Hope”- a combined association of the PAUSA (Punjab Agricultural University Students’ Association) and the GADVASU Students’ Society received overwhelming response. The donation drive was held for the flood-hit Jammu and Kashmir.
The relief items will be sent to J&K with the help of two NGOs, Emergency Youth Blood Donation Organisation and Khalsa Aid.

The co-founder of the GADVASU Students’ Society, Randhir Singh, said, “The relief material will be sent in 2-3 days.”

The faculty members and students of the PAU donated for the flood-hit. They were asked to donate medicines, disinfectants, water purification tablets, ORS etc. The donors were also asked to donate blankets, good quality woolens, dry food, baby milk powder, torch/batteries, candles, matchboxes, disposable cups and plates.

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Teachers get tips for effective, innovative teaching
Our Correspondent

Jagraon, September 30
The Ludhiana Group of Colleges, Chaukimann near Jagraon, organised a one-day workshop on “Methodologies for effective, interactive and innovative schooling” on the college campus today.

The workshop was held under the supervision of Seeta Saini, head of the department, CSE, and Raman Sehgal, HOD, mechanical. Fraternity from the education sector and teachers from various reputed schools were present during the workshop.

Guidance counsellors from about 100 schools participated in the workshop. The college director, Dr JK Chawla, welcomed the delegates. The chief guest, district guidance councillor, Santokh, highlighted the importance of education and for girls in particular. Educationists Rai Singh and Dr Rimpi discussed various methodologies for making teaching more effective and innovative.

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125 doctors take part in CME
Our Correspondent

Khanna, September 30
The Indian Medical Association organised a continuing medical education (CME) conference, under the supervision of the Punjab Medical Council, at Khanna. As many as 125 doctors participated in the CME, under the chairmanship of the IMA president, Dr Sudhir Raj.

The organising secretary of the IMA, Dr Bhasin, said doctors from Khanna, Doraha, Sirhand, Fatehgarh Sahib, Mandi Gobindgarh, Samrala, Machhiwara and Rajpura participated in the function. It was the first regional scientific update Punjab-2014.

Dr KC Mukherjee, cardiac surgery specialist from Apollo Hospital, Ludhiana, Dr Nirmaljit Malhi, DM Gastro, Apollo Hospital, Ludhiana, Dr Robert Rutledge from North Carolina and Dr Ravinder, plastic surgeon body controlling, apprised new doctors of new techniques. Dr Venod Sood, observer from the Punjab Medical Council, was also present on the occasion.

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college notes

Students of the Guru Nanak Khalsa College for Women, Gujarkhan Campus, Model Town, Ludhiana, in a jubilant mood after their dance performance.
Students of the Guru Nanak Khalsa College for Women, Gujarkhan Campus, Model Town, Ludhiana, in a jubilant mood after their dance performance. Tribune Photo: Himanshu Mahajan

New entrants welcomed

As many as 75 students were welcomed at the PCTE Group of Institutes. The students were addressed by Balumuene Nkuna Francois, ambassador of the Democratic Republic of Congo to India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Sri Lanka. Vincent, representing Hungary, spoke to students about the culture of the Central Europe. Students from five countries, namely, Colombia, Papua New Guinea, Syria, Yemen and Ghana, and two new continents Australia and Latin America joined the PCTE, said the director general of the PCTE Group of Institutes, Dr KNS Kang.

Alumni meet at Khalsa college

The Guru Nanak Khalsa College for Women, Gujarkhan Campus, Model Town, organised a cultural show on the occasion of their Alumni Meet on Tuesday. A number of cultural items were presented by the students. A play titled “Waiting room” written by Amit Sharma was also enacted on the occasion. Dance performances including bharatnatyam and folk dance of Rajasthan enthralled one and all. The rich Punjabi culture and heritage was also highlighted by students of the college. Folk items such as folk orchestra and ‘luddi’ left the audience mesmerised. Giddha was the highlight of the event. The principal of the college, Manjit Kaur Ghuman, highlighted the importance of extra-curricular activities along with the academics.

60 students visit Braille Bhawan

As many as 60 students of BEd (Special education-Learning disability) and MEd of the BCM College of Education, along with the teacher in charges, Dr Manminder Kaur and Nitin Raj, visited Braille Bhawan. Teachers of the Braille Bhawan apprised students of the various teaching aids used by them to teach their students. A cultural programme was also organised by the college students. The inmates of the Braille Bhawan also participated in the cultural programme and sang songs on the occasion.

150 attend lecture at RIMT

Expert lecture on ‘Internet of things’ was organised by the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering at the RIMT Institutes, Mandi Gobindgarh. As many as 150 students attended the lecture. The key note speaker for the lecture was principal engineer from the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC), Mohali, Er Jaspal Singh. He presented his views on the topic starting from embedded system. The students were told about a number of practical examples and future applications in the field of medical, home management, shopping management and greenhouse control. The questions of students were answered by an expert. Dr Sushil Garg, principal, RIMT-Maharaja Aggrasen Engineering College, Er Sanjeev Chopra, head of the department, and the faculty members of the department were also present. Chairman Vijayant Bansal appreciated the efforts of students and faculty members for holding such an event.

Lectures on employment opportunities

The Management Department of Guru Nanak Girls College, Model Town, Ludhiana, organised guest lectures on various aspects of employment opportunities and skill development in different sectors. Principal Dr Charanjit Mahal welcomed the resource person, Gurleen Kaur Chawla, assistant vice-president, business banking, Yes Bank, Ludhiana. The resource person focussed on the concept of effective resume writing, accounting concepts and entrepreneurial skills. Principal Dr Charanjit Mahal appreciated the efforts of the department and said these types of lectures are fruitful for the effective grooming of students in professional courses.

NSS camp begins

The NSS Department of the SDP College for Women organised a seven-day NSS camp on the college premises on Tuesday. As many as 65 NSS volunteers joined the camp. The college principal, Dr Kawaljit Kaur, inaugurated the camp. Officers Reena Matta, Sarbjit Kaur and Bharti Saggar made the arrangements. Principal Dr Kawaljit Kaur and Dr Parkash Verma threw light on the motto of NSS i.e. Not me but you. The principal also exhorted the NSS volunteers and programme officers to work for the upliftment and betterment of the rural folk. — TNS

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SCHOOL NOTES

Children dressed as Lord Rama and others at the Mother's Pride school in Ludhiana.
Children dressed as Lord Rama and others at the Mother's Pride school in Ludhiana. Tribune Photo: Himanshu mahajan

School celebrates Dasehra

Mother’s Pride School celebrated Dasehra on Tuesday. The celebrations began with Tilak ceremony. Students also made an effigy of Raavan using paper and sticks. Bhajans in the praise of Lord Rama were also sung on the occasion. Children visited a temple set up in the school. The school was decorated with charts depicting different scenes from the Ramayana. Children came dressed as different mythological characters from the epic. A play “Good over evil” was staged by tiny-tots.

Festive fervour grips students at Bal Bharati

Bal Bharati School celebrated Dasehra. The students were told about Indian mythology and importance of the festival through a cultural bonanza. They came dressed as Lord Rama, Sita, Laxman and Hanuman. They danced on the song ‘Ramji ki nikali sawari’. Students also performed Gujarati garba and dandiya raas. Principal Punam Dogra said the festival season offers excellent opportunity to relate to Indian traditions

Teachers enact Ramlila

Police DAV Public School, Police Lines, Ludhiana, celebrated the festival of ‘Victory of good over evil’ on Tuesday. On the occasion, students came dressed as Ram, Laxman, Sita, Hanuman and Ravana. Effigy of Ravana was made up of papers and sticks. Ramlila was enacted by the teachers. The principal of the school, Dr Anu Verma, greeted students and gave her best wishes to the students and their families. — TNS

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CRIME

Three injured in road accident 
Our Correspondent

Jagraon, September 30
Three persons were injured when a car they were traveling in collided head on with a truck coming from the opposite direction at the railway overbridge here last night. The victims have been identified as Sawarn Singh, Gurmail Singh and Jagdev Singh, all residents of Hans Kalan village near Jagraon.

As per information, the accident took place at around 10pm when the victims were returning to their village from Jagraon. As soon as the car they were traveling in approached the railway overbridge on Tehsil Road, it collided head on with a truck coming from the Raikot side. The impact of the collision was such that the car got completely damaged.

A police team reached the spot after some passers-by informed the police.

The police rushed the victims to a private hospital in Jagraon. The condition of all injured persons is stated to be out of danger. The truck driver fled from the spot after the accident.

The accident led to a traffic jam on the road. The police removed both vehicles from the road and cleared the road for traffic. It took the police personnel 30 minutes to clear the traffic.

The police have impounded the truck and started investigation.

Investigating officer ASI Kuldeep Singh said the police had registered a case of negligence driving against the unidentified truck driver after recording the statements of the victims.

“We have initiated efforts to trace the truck driver. He will be arrested soon,” the ASI said.

 

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SPORTS

Basketball League
Ludhiana players shine on Day 2
Our Sports Reporter

Ludhiana, September 30
Players from Ludhiana district dominated the proceedings as they recorded victories in the boys’ as well as girls’ sections on the second day of the annual Punjab State Basketball League being held at Gure village near here today.

In the boys’ section, Ludhiana district survived a scare against Rail Coach Factory, Kapurthala, before coming out triumphant (35-27). In the girls’ section, players from Ludhiana got the better of Kapurthala district whom they outnumbered by 31-20.

Besides, Jalandhar cagers too proved their mettle, wrapping up the matches in both sections. In the girls’ category, they overpowered Punjab Youth team (28-16), while their mens’ team outplayed Patiala (45-33).

In other matches of the boys’ section, Punjab State Electricity Board (PSEB), Patiala, proved too good for Punjab Youth as the former came out victorious (84-66). PAP, Jalandhar, outclassed Ludhiana Academy (67-56), and Punjab Youth XI went down fighting (65-71) against Ludhiana Academy.

In the girls’ section, Ludhiana scored second win as they defeated Amritsar (59-28).

This league is being organised in the memory of star basketball player and Arjuna Awardee Gurdial Singh Malhi.

Prominent personalities of the area, including Sarabjeet Singh Pradhan, Sohan Singh, Birpal Singh, Jasmail Singh, Narinder Pal Singh Sandhu and Avtar Singh, along with Teja Singh Dhaliwal, Honorary General Secretary, Punjab Basketball Association, and Vijay Chopra, sports promoter, were present there today to encourage the players.

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Nabha college girls lift badminton title

Mandi Gobindgarh, September 30
The Desh Bhagat Institute of Management and Computer Sciences organised a three-day Inter-College Badminton Tournament of Punjabi University, Patiala.
A total of 26 teams, including 17 teams of boys and 9 teams of girls, from different colleges participated in this tournament.

Pro-Chancellor of Desh Bhagat University and vice-chairperson of the Desh Bhagat Group of Institutes Tejinder Kaur inaugurated the event.

The final matches of the tournament were thrilling and breathtaking. The players were seen struggling hard for even a single point.

After a tough final match in the girls’ category, Ripudaman College, Nabha, beat Khalsa College, Patiala. In the boys’ category, Khalsa College, Patiala, beat Punjabi University Campus, Patiala.

Chancellor of Desh Bhagat University and Chairman of Desh Bhagat Group of Institutes Dr Zora Singh presided over the prize distribution function.

Zora Singh patted the backs of players, especially girl, for their excellent performance.

Vice-Chancellor of Desh Bhagat University and Director-General of the Desh Bhagat Group of Institutes Dr Shalini Gupta appreciated all teams for their excellent performance.

Results

Girls: Ripudaman College, Nabha - 1st; Khalsa College, Patiala - 2nd

Boys: Khalsa College, Patiala, - 1st; Punjabi University Campus, Patiala – 2nd — TNS

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