Bodies of NCC cadets flown to Delhi

KOCHI: The bodies of five NCC cadets, who drowned in Periyar River near here, were airlifted to Delhi this morning by an IAF aircraft. The bodies were taken to Delhi by five NCC officials from the Naval airport here. Defence sources said floral tributes were paid to the departed on behalf of Defence Minister A K Antony, Kerala Chief Minister Oomen Chandy, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Southern Naval Command Vice Admiral Satish Soni and NCC Director General Lt Gen P S Bhalla. The students were part of the National Trekking Camp of the National Cadets Corps at Malayatoor, about 52 km from here when the tragedy struck them yesterday. While two boys first slipped into the waters as they were clicking photographs of the picturesque spot, the three others jumped to help them. Earlier last evening, the bodies of Hemant Kumar (15), a school student, Mohammed Zeeshan (18), Sabeesh Baqri (18) and Dilshad Alam (18) (students of the Jamia Milia Polytechnic) and Gulvez Ahamed (18) (student of Shaeed Bhagat Singh College) were brought here for post mortem and embalming. About 700 odd NCC cadets from across the country have congregated at Malayattoor for the 8-day national level trekking camp which began on December 23.

Bodies of NCC cadets flown to Delhi

KOCHI: The bodies of five NCC cadets, who drowned in Periyar River near here, were airlifted to Delhi this morning by an IAF aircraft. The bodies were taken to Delhi by five NCC officials from the Naval airport here. Defence sources said floral tributes were paid to the departed on behalf of Defence Minister A K Antony, Kerala Chief Minister Oomen Chandy, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Southern Naval Command Vice Admiral Satish Soni and NCC Director General Lt Gen P S Bhalla. The students were part of the National Trekking Camp of the National Cadets Corps at Malayatoor, about 52 km from here when the tragedy struck them yesterday. While two boys first slipped into the waters as they were clicking photographs of the picturesque spot, the three others jumped to help them. Earlier last evening, the bodies of Hemant Kumar (15), a school student, Mohammed Zeeshan (18), Sabeesh Baqri (18) and Dilshad Alam (18) (students of the Jamia Milia Polytechnic) and Gulvez Ahamed (18) (student of Shaeed Bhagat Singh College) were brought here for post mortem and embalming. About 700 odd NCC cadets from across the country have congregated at Malayattoor for the 8-day national level trekking camp which began on December 23.

Bilawal to make formal entry into Pak politics tomorrow

SLAMABAD: Pakistan People's Party chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari will make his formal entry into the hurly burly of Pakistani politics at an event to be held tomorrow to mark the fifth death anniversary of his mother Benazir Bhutto.

"Bilawal will make his entry into active politics during the meeting to be held at Garhi Khuda Bux (in Sindh) and take over the PPP's campaign for next year's general election," said a confidant of President Asif Ali Zardari. Both 24-year-old Bilawal and his father will make speeches at the event to be held outside the Bhutto family's mausoleum near the PPP's stronghold of Naudero, said the confidant who did not want to be named.

There has been speculation that Zardari might also announce the date for the next general election at tomorrow's event but the confidant said no final decision had been made in this regard.

"The President is keeping things close to his chest and he is the person who will make the decision about announcing the date for the polls," the confidant said.

The current National Assembly or lower house of parliament will complete its five-year term in March and PPP leaders have indicated that the next general election is likely to be held in April or May. Polls will simultaneously be held to the four provincial assemblies.

During his speech at the event in Garhi Khuda Bux tomorrow, Bilawal is expected to make public a report on the investigation into Benazir Bhutto's assassination by a suicide bomber after an election rally in Rawalpindi in 2007.

Bilawal himself cannot contest polls till he turns 25 in September next year. Zardari, who is the co-chairman of the PPP, has convened a meeting of the party's central executive committee at Naudero on Friday. This meeting is expected to fine tune the PPP's campaign for the polls, party insiders said.

Bilawal to make formal entry into Pak politics tomorrow

SLAMABAD: Pakistan People's Party chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari will make his formal entry into the hurly burly of Pakistani politics at an event to be held tomorrow to mark the fifth death anniversary of his mother Benazir Bhutto.

"Bilawal will make his entry into active politics during the meeting to be held at Garhi Khuda Bux (in Sindh) and take over the PPP's campaign for next year's general election," said a confidant of President Asif Ali Zardari. Both 24-year-old Bilawal and his father will make speeches at the event to be held outside the Bhutto family's mausoleum near the PPP's stronghold of Naudero, said the confidant who did not want to be named.

There has been speculation that Zardari might also announce the date for the next general election at tomorrow's event but the confidant said no final decision had been made in this regard.

"The President is keeping things close to his chest and he is the person who will make the decision about announcing the date for the polls," the confidant said.

The current National Assembly or lower house of parliament will complete its five-year term in March and PPP leaders have indicated that the next general election is likely to be held in April or May. Polls will simultaneously be held to the four provincial assemblies.

During his speech at the event in Garhi Khuda Bux tomorrow, Bilawal is expected to make public a report on the investigation into Benazir Bhutto's assassination by a suicide bomber after an election rally in Rawalpindi in 2007.

Bilawal himself cannot contest polls till he turns 25 in September next year. Zardari, who is the co-chairman of the PPP, has convened a meeting of the party's central executive committee at Naudero on Friday. This meeting is expected to fine tune the PPP's campaign for the polls, party insiders said.

Pak revenue official made Osama bin Laden pay Rs 50,000 bribe

ISLAMABAD: Even the world's most wanted terrorist could not escape the bribery dragnet. Osama bin Laden's safe-house in Pakistan's garrison city Abbottabad was built after paying a bribe of Rs 50,000 to a revenue official, a media report said on Wednesday. The bribe was paid to the 'patwari' so that bin Laden could construct the compound with a three-storey building, a 14-foot boundary wall and an iron fence, the Urdu daily Jang said in a report. Details of the bribe emerged after Pakistani officials translated a diary that was purportedly kept by bin Laden. Bin Laden, 54, was killed by US commandos during a raid on the compound, located a short distance from the Pakistan Military Academy, on May 2 last year. The compound was demolished by the Pakistan Army earlier this year. Officials found the diary along with 137,000 documents in the compound. Bin Laden used to write in the diary every day, the report said. The al-Qaida chief reportedly described in the diary how he had to bribe revenue officials for constructing his compound. The patwari, who was later arrested by Pakistani security agencies, was completely ignorant about the identity of bin Laden when he took the bribe. The diary reportedly revealed that bin Laden was well aware of the practice of revenue officials seeking bribes and even gave his permission for paying off the patwari. A judicial commission that investigated bin Laden's presence in Pakistan and the US raid has pointed out "weaknesses" in state institutions in its report and "delineated the poor performance" of these organisations, the Jang reported. The commission's report is yet to be presented to the government and officials have not said whether it will be made public.

Pak revenue official made Osama bin Laden pay Rs 50,000 bribe

ISLAMABAD: Even the world's most wanted terrorist could not escape the bribery dragnet. Osama bin Laden's safe-house in Pakistan's garrison city Abbottabad was built after paying a bribe of Rs 50,000 to a revenue official, a media report said on Wednesday. The bribe was paid to the 'patwari' so that bin Laden could construct the compound with a three-storey building, a 14-foot boundary wall and an iron fence, the Urdu daily Jang said in a report. Details of the bribe emerged after Pakistani officials translated a diary that was purportedly kept by bin Laden. Bin Laden, 54, was killed by US commandos during a raid on the compound, located a short distance from the Pakistan Military Academy, on May 2 last year. The compound was demolished by the Pakistan Army earlier this year. Officials found the diary along with 137,000 documents in the compound. Bin Laden used to write in the diary every day, the report said. The al-Qaida chief reportedly described in the diary how he had to bribe revenue officials for constructing his compound. The patwari, who was later arrested by Pakistani security agencies, was completely ignorant about the identity of bin Laden when he took the bribe. The diary reportedly revealed that bin Laden was well aware of the practice of revenue officials seeking bribes and even gave his permission for paying off the patwari. A judicial commission that investigated bin Laden's presence in Pakistan and the US raid has pointed out "weaknesses" in state institutions in its report and "delineated the poor performance" of these organisations, the Jang reported. The commission's report is yet to be presented to the government and officials have not said whether it will be made public.

Middle-order failed to capitalize, says Dhoni

BANGALORE: Indian skipper M S Dhoni feels the failure of middle-order batsmen to capitalise on the good start provided by openers led to the five-wicket loss against Pakistan in the first Twenty20 encounter here. Dhoni said India loss of wickets at regular intervals, after being in a strong position at 75 without loss in 10 overs, hurt the team badly. “The batsmen got out trying to play big shots. We could have easily scored 200 if we had applied ourselves,” Dhoni complained. On the umpire not giving a decision in India’s favour when Ishant Sharma had got Shoaib Malik (57 not out) caught off a ball which climbed a tad above shoulder level, Dhoni said, “It was a fair decision but I am not sure if you are allowed to refer it (to the third umpire) or not.” Asked about R Ashwin’s omission from the playing eleven, Dhoni said, “Since we had three seamers we wanted to give Jadeja a go. At the same time we had other resources as well.” Pakistan skipper Mohammed Hafeez said the team played according to a plan and targeted India’s part-time spinners-- Yuvraj Singh and Ravindra Jadeja who are not world-class bowlers.

Middle-order failed to capitalize, says Dhoni

BANGALORE: Indian skipper M S Dhoni feels the failure of middle-order batsmen to capitalise on the good start provided by openers led to the five-wicket loss against Pakistan in the first Twenty20 encounter here. Dhoni said India loss of wickets at regular intervals, after being in a strong position at 75 without loss in 10 overs, hurt the team badly. “The batsmen got out trying to play big shots. We could have easily scored 200 if we had applied ourselves,” Dhoni complained. On the umpire not giving a decision in India’s favour when Ishant Sharma had got Shoaib Malik (57 not out) caught off a ball which climbed a tad above shoulder level, Dhoni said, “It was a fair decision but I am not sure if you are allowed to refer it (to the third umpire) or not.” Asked about R Ashwin’s omission from the playing eleven, Dhoni said, “Since we had three seamers we wanted to give Jadeja a go. At the same time we had other resources as well.” Pakistan skipper Mohammed Hafeez said the team played according to a plan and targeted India’s part-time spinners-- Yuvraj Singh and Ravindra Jadeja who are not world-class bowlers.

ATVM commissioned at station

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The first Automatic Ticket Vending Machine (ATVM) of Railways in the State was commissioned at Thiruvananthapuram Central. With this, railway passengers will not have to stand in long queues at the booking counters at the Central station to buy an unreserved ticket. The ATVMs are among the 10 installed by Railways at the Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Kottayam, Thrissur, and Aluva railway stations. The passengers can choose any of the three languages-- Malayalam, Hindi, or English to operate the ATVMs. The passengers intending to buy a general ticket (unreserved ticket) or platform ticket have to buy a smart card available in the value of Rs.100 onwards from Railways. The smart card will have to be inserted in the ATVM to buy the ticket by selecting the destination station and other details. The smart cards are valid for six months. Detailed guidelines are available with the Chief Booking Supervisor

ATVM commissioned at station

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The first Automatic Ticket Vending Machine (ATVM) of Railways in the State was commissioned at Thiruvananthapuram Central. With this, railway passengers will not have to stand in long queues at the booking counters at the Central station to buy an unreserved ticket. The ATVMs are among the 10 installed by Railways at the Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Kottayam, Thrissur, and Aluva railway stations. The passengers can choose any of the three languages-- Malayalam, Hindi, or English to operate the ATVMs. The passengers intending to buy a general ticket (unreserved ticket) or platform ticket have to buy a smart card available in the value of Rs.100 onwards from Railways. The smart card will have to be inserted in the ATVM to buy the ticket by selecting the destination station and other details. The smart cards are valid for six months. Detailed guidelines are available with the Chief Booking Supervisor

Sensex rises 66 points in early trade

MUMBAI: The BSE benchmark Sensex Wednesday rose over 66 points in early trade on increased buying amid covering-up of short positions by speculators ahead of tomorrow's monthly expiry.

The 30-share barometer gained 66.32 points, or 0.34 per cent, to 19,321.41 with all the sectoral indices led by consumer durables rising up to one per cent.

The index had closed 13.09 points up in the previous session on Monday. The wide-based National Stock Exchange index Nifty moved up by 14.

The wide-based National Stock Exchange index Nifty moved up by 14.80 points, or 0.25 per cent, to 5,870.55.

Sensex rises 66 points in early trade

MUMBAI: The BSE benchmark Sensex Wednesday rose over 66 points in early trade on increased buying amid covering-up of short positions by speculators ahead of tomorrow's monthly expiry.

The 30-share barometer gained 66.32 points, or 0.34 per cent, to 19,321.41 with all the sectoral indices led by consumer durables rising up to one per cent.

The index had closed 13.09 points up in the previous session on Monday. The wide-based National Stock Exchange index Nifty moved up by 14.

The wide-based National Stock Exchange index Nifty moved up by 14.80 points, or 0.25 per cent, to 5,870.55.

World's longest bullet train service begins in China

BEIJING: China started service on Wednesday on the world's longest high-speed rail route, the latest milestone in the country's rapid and -- sometimes troubled -- super-fast rail network.

The opening of the new 2,298-kilometre (1,425-mile) line between Beijing and Guangzhou means passengers will be whisked from the capital to the southern commercial hub in less than a third of the 22 hours previously required.

China Central Television broadcast the departure of the first train live from Beijing West Railway Station. It also carried live reports from inside showing passengers toting cameras to apparently snap commemorative photos.

Trains will travel at an average speed of 300 kilometres per hour over the line, which includes 35 stops in major cities such as Zhengzhou, Wuhan on the Yangtze River and Changsha.

State media have reported that December 26 was chosen to start passenger service on the Beijing-Guangzhou line to commemorate the birth in 1893 of revered Chinese leader Mao Zedong.

The Beijing-Guangzhou route was made possible with the completion of a line between Zhengzhou and Beijing. High-speed sections linking Zhengzhou and Wuhan and Wuhan and Guangzhou were already in service.

China's high-speed rail network was established in 2007, but has fast become the world's largest with 8,358 kilometres of track at the end of 2010. That is expected to almost double to 16,000 kilometres by 2020.

The network, however, has been plagued by graft and safety scandals, most notably a deadly bullet train collision in July 2011 that killed 40 people and sparked a public outrage.

The accident was China's worst rail disaster since 2008 and caused a torrent of criticism aimed at the government amid accusations that authorities compromised safety in their rush to expand the network.

Authorities said they have taken steps ahead of the new line's opening to improve maintenance and inspection of infrastructure, including track, rolling stock and emergency response measures.

"The emergency rescue system and all kinds of emergency pre-plans are established to improve emergency response ability," according to a ministry booklet.

Still, safety concerns remain.

World's longest bullet train service begins in China

BEIJING: China started service on Wednesday on the world's longest high-speed rail route, the latest milestone in the country's rapid and -- sometimes troubled -- super-fast rail network.

The opening of the new 2,298-kilometre (1,425-mile) line between Beijing and Guangzhou means passengers will be whisked from the capital to the southern commercial hub in less than a third of the 22 hours previously required.

China Central Television broadcast the departure of the first train live from Beijing West Railway Station. It also carried live reports from inside showing passengers toting cameras to apparently snap commemorative photos.

Trains will travel at an average speed of 300 kilometres per hour over the line, which includes 35 stops in major cities such as Zhengzhou, Wuhan on the Yangtze River and Changsha.

State media have reported that December 26 was chosen to start passenger service on the Beijing-Guangzhou line to commemorate the birth in 1893 of revered Chinese leader Mao Zedong.

The Beijing-Guangzhou route was made possible with the completion of a line between Zhengzhou and Beijing. High-speed sections linking Zhengzhou and Wuhan and Wuhan and Guangzhou were already in service.

China's high-speed rail network was established in 2007, but has fast become the world's largest with 8,358 kilometres of track at the end of 2010. That is expected to almost double to 16,000 kilometres by 2020.

The network, however, has been plagued by graft and safety scandals, most notably a deadly bullet train collision in July 2011 that killed 40 people and sparked a public outrage.

The accident was China's worst rail disaster since 2008 and caused a torrent of criticism aimed at the government amid accusations that authorities compromised safety in their rush to expand the network.

Authorities said they have taken steps ahead of the new line's opening to improve maintenance and inspection of infrastructure, including track, rolling stock and emergency response measures.

"The emergency rescue system and all kinds of emergency pre-plans are established to improve emergency response ability," according to a ministry booklet.

Still, safety concerns remain.

Japan's Cabinet resigns to make way for new prime minister

TOKYO: Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda's Cabinet has resigned to clear the way for a vote in parliament to formally install conservative Shinzo Abe as Japan's new leader.

The chief government spokesman said the Cabinet resigned in a special meeting Wednesday morning.

Abe led his conservative Liberal Democratic Party to victory in elections December 16 after three years in opposition. He was to be named prime minister later Wednesday for his second turn at the nation's helm. He was also prime minister in 2006-2007.

He has vowed to take bold measures to shore up the economy, deal with a swelling national debt and come up with a recovery plan following last year's devastating earthquake, tsunami and nuclear crises.

Japan's Cabinet resigns to make way for new prime minister

TOKYO: Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda's Cabinet has resigned to clear the way for a vote in parliament to formally install conservative Shinzo Abe as Japan's new leader.

The chief government spokesman said the Cabinet resigned in a special meeting Wednesday morning.

Abe led his conservative Liberal Democratic Party to victory in elections December 16 after three years in opposition. He was to be named prime minister later Wednesday for his second turn at the nation's helm. He was also prime minister in 2006-2007.

He has vowed to take bold measures to shore up the economy, deal with a swelling national debt and come up with a recovery plan following last year's devastating earthquake, tsunami and nuclear crises.

Eyewitness claims constable Tomar was not assaulted, but collapsed on his own

NEW DELHI: Yogendra Tomar, who claims to be an eyewitness to Subhash Tomar's injury during the gang-rape protests at the India Gate here, has said that the constable was not assaulted by protestors but simply collapsed while walking. "He wasn't trampled by the protestors, he wasn't assaulted. He just collapsed while walking. There was a girl with me at that time. We both saw him lying on the ground, and then I picked him up and took him to the hospital in a police van," said Yogendra. "I don't what they (Delhi Police) are saying, but what I am speaking is the truth," he added. The eyewitness further said that no case has been registered against him so far. "No case been registered against me, and neither have I come in contact with the police," he added, when asked whether there was any case registered against him. Delhi Police, however, refused to comment on the boy's claims, saying it would be able to speak on the issue only after receiving the post-mortem report. "The doctors, who conducted the post-mortem of Constable Subhash Tomar have told us that there were injuries on stomach, chest and neck. And post-mortem report will only tell the cause of death and before we get the post-mortem any comment on the cause of death will be pre-mature," said Delhi Police spokesperson Rajan Bhagat. "Therefore, we request not to make it an issue before we get any post-mortem report. We have not declared any cause of death so far, we are waiting for the post-mortem report," he added. According to reports, Delhi Police has booked eight people in connection with constable Tomar's case. Tomar was cremated with full state honours at the Nigambodh Ghat here on Tuesday. Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, Minister of State for Home R P N Singh, Union Minister Ajit Singh and Union Home Secretary R K Singh were present to pay their last respects. Delhi Police Commissioner Neeraj Kumar and other senior officials from the police department also attended the cremation ceremony. Tomar, who was on ventilator since his admission at the Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital on Sunday evening, was declared dead at 6:40 am. Delhi Police, which has described the death of constable Tomar as extremely tragic, has decided that all personnel will donate one day's salary to his family. Tomar is survived by his wife and three children - two sons and a daughter. Pilgrim dies of heart attack JAMMU: A pilgrim died of heart attack en route the cave shrine of Vaishnodevi in Trikuta hills in Reasi district. 61-year-old Maninder of West Bengal suffered a heart attack at Katra base camp last night and was rushed to hospital where he died, officials said Wednesday. His body was later handed over to his family. Jawan killed in cross-border firing in Poonch JAMMU: An Army jawan was killed in firing from across the Indo-Pak border in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir. “There was firing from across the border at a forward post in Mankote belt in Poonch district late last night,” a defence spokesman said on Wednesday. In the firing, an Army jawan was critically wounded and later died in hospital, he said, adding that it was not known whether the shots were fired by Pakistani troops or militants. The jawan has been identified as Sepoy Rakesh Kumar. Japan's Cabinet resigns to make way for new prime minister TOKYO: Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda's Cabinet has resigned to clear the way for a vote in parliament to formally install conservative Shinzo Abe as Japan's new leader. The chief government spokesman said the Cabinet resigned in a special meeting Wednesday morning. Abe led his conservative Liberal Democratic Party to victory in elections December 16 after three years in opposition. He was to be named prime minister later Wednesday for his second turn at the nation's helm. He was also prime minister in 2006-2007. He has vowed to take bold measures to shore up the economy, deal with a swelling national debt and come up with a recovery plan following last year's devastating earthquake, tsunami and nuclear crises.  World's longest bullet train service begins in China BEIJING: China started service on Wednesday on the world's longest high-speed rail route, the latest milestone in the country's rapid and -- sometimes troubled -- super-fast rail network. The opening of the new 2,298-kilometre (1,425-mile) line between Beijing and Guangzhou means passengers will be whisked from the capital to the southern commercial hub in less than a third of the 22 hours previously required. China Central Television broadcast the departure of the first train live from Beijing West Railway Station. It also carried live reports from inside showing passengers toting cameras to apparently snap commemorative photos. Trains will travel at an average speed of 300 kilometres per hour over the line, which includes 35 stops in major cities such as Zhengzhou, Wuhan on the Yangtze River and Changsha. State media have reported that December 26 was chosen to start passenger service on the Beijing-Guangzhou line to commemorate the birth in 1893 of revered Chinese leader Mao Zedong. The Beijing-Guangzhou route was made possible with the completion of a line between Zhengzhou and Beijing. High-speed sections linking Zhengzhou and Wuhan and Wuhan and Guangzhou were already in service. China's high-speed rail network was established in 2007, but has fast become the world's largest with 8,358 kilometres of track at the end of 2010. That is expected to almost double to 16,000 kilometres by 2020. The network, however, has been plagued by graft and safety scandals, most notably a deadly bullet train collision in July 2011 that killed 40 people and sparked a public outrage. The accident was China's worst rail disaster since 2008 and caused a torrent of criticism aimed at the government amid accusations that authorities compromised safety in their rush to expand the network. Authorities said they have taken steps ahead of the new line's opening to improve maintenance and inspection of infrastructure, including track, rolling stock and emergency response measures. "The emergency rescue system and all kinds of emergency pre-plans are established to improve emergency response ability," according to a ministry booklet. Still, safety concerns remain. Sensex rises 66 points in early trade MUMBAI: The BSE benchmark Sensex Wednesday rose over 66 points in early trade on increased buying amid covering-up of short positions by speculators ahead of tomorrow's monthly expiry. The 30-share barometer gained 66.32 points, or 0.34 per cent, to 19,321.41 with all the sectoral indices led by consumer durables rising up to one per cent. The index had closed 13.09 points up in the previous session on Monday. The wide-based National Stock Exchange index Nifty moved up by 14. The wide-based National Stock Exchange index Nifty moved up by 14.80 points, or 0.25 per cent, to 5,870.55. Brokers said increased buying by major players in line with a firming trend overseas and covering up of short positions by speculators ahead of tomorrow’s monthly expiry in the derivatives segment mainly influenced the trading sentiments. Meanwhile in the Asian region, Japan’s Nikkei gained 0.61 per cent in the early trade today, while Hong Kong markets remained closed for a public holiday.  Middle-order failed to capitalize, says Dhoni BANGALORE: Indian skipper M S Dhoni feels the failure of middle-order batsmen to capitalise on the good start provided by openers led to the five-wicket loss against Pakistan in the first Twenty20 encounter here. Dhoni said India loss of wickets at regular intervals, after being in a strong position at 75 without loss in 10 overs, hurt the team badly. “The batsmen got out trying to play big shots. We could have easily scored 200 if we had applied ourselves,” Dhoni complained. On the umpire not giving a decision in India’s favour when Ishant Sharma had got Shoaib Malik (57 not out) caught off a ball which climbed a tad above shoulder level, Dhoni said, “It was a fair decision but I am not sure if you are allowed to refer it (to the third umpire) or not.” Asked about R Ashwin’s omission from the playing eleven, Dhoni said, “Since we had three seamers we wanted to give Jadeja a go. At the same time we had other resources as well.” Pakistan skipper Mohammed Hafeez said the team played according to a plan and targeted India’s part-time spinners-- Yuvraj Singh and Ravindra Jadeja who are not world-class bowlers.  ATVM commissioned at station THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The first Automatic Ticket Vending Machine (ATVM) of Railways in the State was commissioned at Thiruvananthapuram Central. With this, railway passengers will not have to stand in long queues at the booking counters at the Central station to buy an unreserved ticket. The ATVMs are among the 10 installed by Railways at the Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Kottayam, Thrissur, and Aluva railway stations. The passengers can choose any of the three languages-- Malayalam, Hindi, or English to operate the ATVMs. The passengers intending to buy a general ticket (unreserved ticket) or platform ticket have to buy a smart card available in the value of Rs.100 onwards from Railways. The smart card will have to be inserted in the ATVM to buy the ticket by selecting the destination station and other details. The smart cards are valid for six months. Detailed guidelines are available with the Chief Booking Supervisor.

Eyewitness claims constable Tomar was not assaulted, but collapsed on his own

NEW DELHI: Yogendra Tomar, who claims to be an eyewitness to Subhash Tomar's injury during the gang-rape protests at the India Gate here, has said that the constable was not assaulted by protestors but simply collapsed while walking. "He wasn't trampled by the protestors, he wasn't assaulted. He just collapsed while walking. There was a girl with me at that time. We both saw him lying on the ground, and then I picked him up and took him to the hospital in a police van," said Yogendra. "I don't what they (Delhi Police) are saying, but what I am speaking is the truth," he added. The eyewitness further said that no case has been registered against him so far. "No case been registered against me, and neither have I come in contact with the police," he added, when asked whether there was any case registered against him. Delhi Police, however, refused to comment on the boy's claims, saying it would be able to speak on the issue only after receiving the post-mortem report. "The doctors, who conducted the post-mortem of Constable Subhash Tomar have told us that there were injuries on stomach, chest and neck. And post-mortem report will only tell the cause of death and before we get the post-mortem any comment on the cause of death will be pre-mature," said Delhi Police spokesperson Rajan Bhagat. "Therefore, we request not to make it an issue before we get any post-mortem report. We have not declared any cause of death so far, we are waiting for the post-mortem report," he added. According to reports, Delhi Police has booked eight people in connection with constable Tomar's case. Tomar was cremated with full state honours at the Nigambodh Ghat here on Tuesday. Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, Minister of State for Home R P N Singh, Union Minister Ajit Singh and Union Home Secretary R K Singh were present to pay their last respects. Delhi Police Commissioner Neeraj Kumar and other senior officials from the police department also attended the cremation ceremony. Tomar, who was on ventilator since his admission at the Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital on Sunday evening, was declared dead at 6:40 am. Delhi Police, which has described the death of constable Tomar as extremely tragic, has decided that all personnel will donate one day's salary to his family. Tomar is survived by his wife and three children - two sons and a daughter. Pilgrim dies of heart attack JAMMU: A pilgrim died of heart attack en route the cave shrine of Vaishnodevi in Trikuta hills in Reasi district. 61-year-old Maninder of West Bengal suffered a heart attack at Katra base camp last night and was rushed to hospital where he died, officials said Wednesday. His body was later handed over to his family. Jawan killed in cross-border firing in Poonch JAMMU: An Army jawan was killed in firing from across the Indo-Pak border in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir. “There was firing from across the border at a forward post in Mankote belt in Poonch district late last night,” a defence spokesman said on Wednesday. In the firing, an Army jawan was critically wounded and later died in hospital, he said, adding that it was not known whether the shots were fired by Pakistani troops or militants. The jawan has been identified as Sepoy Rakesh Kumar. Japan's Cabinet resigns to make way for new prime minister TOKYO: Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda's Cabinet has resigned to clear the way for a vote in parliament to formally install conservative Shinzo Abe as Japan's new leader. The chief government spokesman said the Cabinet resigned in a special meeting Wednesday morning. Abe led his conservative Liberal Democratic Party to victory in elections December 16 after three years in opposition. He was to be named prime minister later Wednesday for his second turn at the nation's helm. He was also prime minister in 2006-2007. He has vowed to take bold measures to shore up the economy, deal with a swelling national debt and come up with a recovery plan following last year's devastating earthquake, tsunami and nuclear crises.  World's longest bullet train service begins in China BEIJING: China started service on Wednesday on the world's longest high-speed rail route, the latest milestone in the country's rapid and -- sometimes troubled -- super-fast rail network. The opening of the new 2,298-kilometre (1,425-mile) line between Beijing and Guangzhou means passengers will be whisked from the capital to the southern commercial hub in less than a third of the 22 hours previously required. China Central Television broadcast the departure of the first train live from Beijing West Railway Station. It also carried live reports from inside showing passengers toting cameras to apparently snap commemorative photos. Trains will travel at an average speed of 300 kilometres per hour over the line, which includes 35 stops in major cities such as Zhengzhou, Wuhan on the Yangtze River and Changsha. State media have reported that December 26 was chosen to start passenger service on the Beijing-Guangzhou line to commemorate the birth in 1893 of revered Chinese leader Mao Zedong. The Beijing-Guangzhou route was made possible with the completion of a line between Zhengzhou and Beijing. High-speed sections linking Zhengzhou and Wuhan and Wuhan and Guangzhou were already in service. China's high-speed rail network was established in 2007, but has fast become the world's largest with 8,358 kilometres of track at the end of 2010. That is expected to almost double to 16,000 kilometres by 2020. The network, however, has been plagued by graft and safety scandals, most notably a deadly bullet train collision in July 2011 that killed 40 people and sparked a public outrage. The accident was China's worst rail disaster since 2008 and caused a torrent of criticism aimed at the government amid accusations that authorities compromised safety in their rush to expand the network. Authorities said they have taken steps ahead of the new line's opening to improve maintenance and inspection of infrastructure, including track, rolling stock and emergency response measures. "The emergency rescue system and all kinds of emergency pre-plans are established to improve emergency response ability," according to a ministry booklet. Still, safety concerns remain. Sensex rises 66 points in early trade MUMBAI: The BSE benchmark Sensex Wednesday rose over 66 points in early trade on increased buying amid covering-up of short positions by speculators ahead of tomorrow's monthly expiry. The 30-share barometer gained 66.32 points, or 0.34 per cent, to 19,321.41 with all the sectoral indices led by consumer durables rising up to one per cent. The index had closed 13.09 points up in the previous session on Monday. The wide-based National Stock Exchange index Nifty moved up by 14. The wide-based National Stock Exchange index Nifty moved up by 14.80 points, or 0.25 per cent, to 5,870.55. Brokers said increased buying by major players in line with a firming trend overseas and covering up of short positions by speculators ahead of tomorrow’s monthly expiry in the derivatives segment mainly influenced the trading sentiments. Meanwhile in the Asian region, Japan’s Nikkei gained 0.61 per cent in the early trade today, while Hong Kong markets remained closed for a public holiday.  Middle-order failed to capitalize, says Dhoni BANGALORE: Indian skipper M S Dhoni feels the failure of middle-order batsmen to capitalise on the good start provided by openers led to the five-wicket loss against Pakistan in the first Twenty20 encounter here. Dhoni said India loss of wickets at regular intervals, after being in a strong position at 75 without loss in 10 overs, hurt the team badly. “The batsmen got out trying to play big shots. We could have easily scored 200 if we had applied ourselves,” Dhoni complained. On the umpire not giving a decision in India’s favour when Ishant Sharma had got Shoaib Malik (57 not out) caught off a ball which climbed a tad above shoulder level, Dhoni said, “It was a fair decision but I am not sure if you are allowed to refer it (to the third umpire) or not.” Asked about R Ashwin’s omission from the playing eleven, Dhoni said, “Since we had three seamers we wanted to give Jadeja a go. At the same time we had other resources as well.” Pakistan skipper Mohammed Hafeez said the team played according to a plan and targeted India’s part-time spinners-- Yuvraj Singh and Ravindra Jadeja who are not world-class bowlers.  ATVM commissioned at station THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The first Automatic Ticket Vending Machine (ATVM) of Railways in the State was commissioned at Thiruvananthapuram Central. With this, railway passengers will not have to stand in long queues at the booking counters at the Central station to buy an unreserved ticket. The ATVMs are among the 10 installed by Railways at the Thiruvananthapuram, Ernakulam, Kottayam, Thrissur, and Aluva railway stations. The passengers can choose any of the three languages-- Malayalam, Hindi, or English to operate the ATVMs. The passengers intending to buy a general ticket (unreserved ticket) or platform ticket have to buy a smart card available in the value of Rs.100 onwards from Railways. The smart card will have to be inserted in the ATVM to buy the ticket by selecting the destination station and other details. The smart cards are valid for six months. Detailed guidelines are available with the Chief Booking Supervisor.

Woman gang-raped in TN, 10 arrested

VIRUDHACHALAM (TN): A 20-year-old woman was allegedly gang-raped by 10 persons on the banks of Manimuktha river near here, police said Wednesday. All the ten accused have been arrested yesterday, police said. The woman, hailing from Gurumangalam village near here in Cuddalore district, was speaking to her relative on the banks of the river when the gang members pounced on them. The gang attacked the women's relative when he tried to protect her and later raped her, police said. Based on the woman's complaint, police registered a case and admitted her to Mundiampakkam Medical College hospital.

Woman gang-raped in TN, 10 arrested

VIRUDHACHALAM (TN): A 20-year-old woman was allegedly gang-raped by 10 persons on the banks of Manimuktha river near here, police said Wednesday. All the ten accused have been arrested yesterday, police said. The woman, hailing from Gurumangalam village near here in Cuddalore district, was speaking to her relative on the banks of the river when the gang members pounced on them. The gang attacked the women's relative when he tried to protect her and later raped her, police said. Based on the woman's complaint, police registered a case and admitted her to Mundiampakkam Medical College hospital.

Three Keralites killed in Karnataka

BANGALORE: Three Keralites were killed in an accident in Karnataka. The dead have been identified as Rajeev (48), his wife Asha (40) and daughter Aarathi (15).

The incident happened when the car in which they were travelling collided with a Tata Sumo at Bankahalli near Gundlupet.

The car was proceeding to Aluva from Mysore. The condition of one person out of the 11 injuried is stated to be serious.

Three Keralites killed in Karnataka

BANGALORE: Three Keralites were killed in an accident in Karnataka. The dead have been identified as Rajeev (48), his wife Asha (40) and daughter Aarathi (15).

The incident happened when the car in which they were travelling collided with a Tata Sumo at Bankahalli near Gundlupet.

The car was proceeding to Aluva from Mysore. The condition of one person out of the 11 injuried is stated to be serious.

Govt appoints doctors team for Madhani’s treatment

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said the government has appointed a five-member doctors team for the treatment of PDP chairman Abdul Nasser Madhani, jailed in Karnataka for his involvement in Bangalore blasts case.

Karnataka has submitted a detailed report to the state government regarding his health and the treatment given. The government has asked the expert team of doctors to suggest the steps to be taken and after getting the report, further action will be taken.
The government has certain limitations to intervene in the case as the case involving Madhani happened in Bangalore. Briefing reporters after the weekly cabinet meet, Chandy said the government has not taken a decision in sending an all-party team to Karnataka.

In reply to question, he said the government has directed TECOM to follow the time limit in connection with the Smart City project.

The government had made its stand clear on Italian marines’ issue and the court and centre had approved it.

Chandy said there is nothing new on the recommendations proposed by the public expenditure committee. The committed had submitted its report during the tenure of the previous government also. The recommendations need to be considered only if necessary, he said.

Investigation in connection with the murder of Harihara Varma is moving in the right direction, he said. The accused will be arrested soon, he said

Govt appoints doctors team for Madhani’s treatment

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said the government has appointed a five-member doctors team for the treatment of PDP chairman Abdul Nasser Madhani, jailed in Karnataka for his involvement in Bangalore blasts case.

Karnataka has submitted a detailed report to the state government regarding his health and the treatment given. The government has asked the expert team of doctors to suggest the steps to be taken and after getting the report, further action will be taken.
The government has certain limitations to intervene in the case as the case involving Madhani happened in Bangalore. Briefing reporters after the weekly cabinet meet, Chandy said the government has not taken a decision in sending an all-party team to Karnataka.

In reply to question, he said the government has directed TECOM to follow the time limit in connection with the Smart City project.

The government had made its stand clear on Italian marines’ issue and the court and centre had approved it.

Chandy said there is nothing new on the recommendations proposed by the public expenditure committee. The committed had submitted its report during the tenure of the previous government also. The recommendations need to be considered only if necessary, he said.

Investigation in connection with the murder of Harihara Varma is moving in the right direction, he said. The accused will be arrested soon, he said

Seven-year-old dies after falling from train

KOTTAYAM: A seven-year-old girl died after she fell from the train. The victim has been identified as Jiya, daughter of George Joseph of Kottayam. The incident happened when the Kerala Express reached Palakkad Mangara Railway Station.

Seven-year-old dies after falling from train

KOTTAYAM: A seven-year-old girl died after she fell from the train. The victim has been identified as Jiya, daughter of George Joseph of Kottayam. The incident happened when the Kerala Express reached Palakkad Mangara Railway Station.

Explosives seized from car, one arrested

KANNUR: Explosives and detonators were seized from a car at a check post at Kiliyanthara in the district by Excise Department officials and one person was taken into custody in this connection, police said Wednesday.

As much as 40 kg of ammonium nitrate and 1,000 detonators were confiscated from the car while checking vehicles by the officials last night.

Sreejith, who was in the car, had been taken into custody.

The car was coming from Karnataka and was on its way to Kalpetta, they said.

Explosives seized from car, one arrested

KANNUR: Explosives and detonators were seized from a car at a check post at Kiliyanthara in the district by Excise Department officials and one person was taken into custody in this connection, police said Wednesday.

As much as 40 kg of ammonium nitrate and 1,000 detonators were confiscated from the car while checking vehicles by the officials last night.

Sreejith, who was in the car, had been taken into custody.

The car was coming from Karnataka and was on its way to Kalpetta, they said.

Gold for 10 lucky winners in GKSF's first Weekly Draw

KASARGOD: Ten lucky winners have won 10 sovereigns of gold in the first weekly draw of the South Indian Bank Grand Kerala Shopping Festival. The first weekly draw of GKSF Season Six was held here as part of the 'Kasaragod Mahotsavam'. The prize draw was inaugurated by Kasargod MLA N A Nellikkunnu and presided over by District Panchayat President Adv. Shyamaladevi, a press release here said. Dignitaries including Kasargod ADM H Dineshan, Tourism Deputy Director M E Kunhiraman, elected representatives, representatives of trade associations and major GKSF sponsors were present. Prizes were also given away to the best decorated establishments in the district this season. Kasargod based Sulthan Gold claimed the first place, while Malabar Wedding Centre came second. The prize draw was followed by entertainment programmes led by actor Nadir Shah and his team. The second Weekly Draw of GKSF Season 6 will be held on Monday, December 31, at the closing ceremony of the Alappuzha Beach Festival. The winners of the weekly prize draw may call the toll free number 1800- 4255-2012 to know more about the claim process.

Gold for 10 lucky winners in GKSF's first Weekly Draw

KASARGOD: Ten lucky winners have won 10 sovereigns of gold in the first weekly draw of the South Indian Bank Grand Kerala Shopping Festival. The first weekly draw of GKSF Season Six was held here as part of the 'Kasaragod Mahotsavam'. The prize draw was inaugurated by Kasargod MLA N A Nellikkunnu and presided over by District Panchayat President Adv. Shyamaladevi, a press release here said. Dignitaries including Kasargod ADM H Dineshan, Tourism Deputy Director M E Kunhiraman, elected representatives, representatives of trade associations and major GKSF sponsors were present. Prizes were also given away to the best decorated establishments in the district this season. Kasargod based Sulthan Gold claimed the first place, while Malabar Wedding Centre came second. The prize draw was followed by entertainment programmes led by actor Nadir Shah and his team. The second Weekly Draw of GKSF Season 6 will be held on Monday, December 31, at the closing ceremony of the Alappuzha Beach Festival. The winners of the weekly prize draw may call the toll free number 1800- 4255-2012 to know more about the claim process.

KSRTC operated 16,022 chain services to Sabarimala

SABARIMALA: The state-owned Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has operated 16,022 chain services between Pampa and Nilakkal so far, as part of the annual pilgrimage to Sabarmala Aiyappa temple here. Official sources said as many as 16,48,812 devotees have availed the service bringing in a revenue of Rs 3.55 crore to the Corporation.

KSRTC operated 16,022 chain services to Sabarimala

SABARIMALA: The state-owned Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has operated 16,022 chain services between Pampa and Nilakkal so far, as part of the annual pilgrimage to Sabarmala Aiyappa temple here. Official sources said as many as 16,48,812 devotees have availed the service bringing in a revenue of Rs 3.55 crore to the Corporation.

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Injured Delhi Police constable dies

New Delhi: A Delhi Police constable who was injured in the Sunday violence at India Gate during protests against gang-rape of a girl died today, police said. 

Subhash Chand Tomar (47) breathed his last at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital this morning. He was on ventilator since his admission in the hospital. 
Tomar, a graduate, hailed from Meerut in Uttar Pradesh. He was posted in Karawal Nagar area and was called for maintaining law and order at India Gate area during the protest on Sunday.
He was found lying injured on Tilak Marg and was rushed to hospital. PTI SJY AGL

Injured Delhi Police constable dies

New Delhi: A Delhi Police constable who was injured in the Sunday violence at India Gate during protests against gang-rape of a girl died today, police said. 

Subhash Chand Tomar (47) breathed his last at Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital this morning. He was on ventilator since his admission in the hospital. 
Tomar, a graduate, hailed from Meerut in Uttar Pradesh. He was posted in Karawal Nagar area and was called for maintaining law and order at India Gate area during the protest on Sunday.
He was found lying injured on Tilak Marg and was rushed to hospital. PTI SJY AGL

Four jawans killed in shooting at Chhattisgarh CRPF camp

Rraipur: Four CRPF jawans were killed and one was injured after their colleague opened fire at them in Chhattisgarh's Dantewada district.

The shooting occurred last night at the camp of 111 CRPF Battalion when a jawan Deep Kumar Tiwari opened fire on the jawans who were sleeping, Dantewada SP Narendra Khare told PTI.

While three jawans died on the spot, one died while being taken to hospital, Khare said, adding that the injured hsa been referred to a Jagdalpur hospital.
While the exact cause is being ascertained Khare said the accused was suffering from some 'psychological problems'.