A group of scientists of the North-East Institute of Science and Technology (NEISC), formerly known as Regional Research Laboratory (RRL), Jorhat, has prepared a safe mosquito repellent in the form of Agarbatti or incense sticks from a harmless bio-product. Most of mosquito repellents currently used for domestic purpose are mainly synthetic products with high mammalian toxicity. They are mostly synthetic pyrethroids. Though they are less harmful then general insecticides, but still are not totally safe for prolonged use, sources said.

The Central Government has approved 75 flood control and anti-erosion schemes proposed by the State Water Resources Department (WRD) for implementation from this financial year. The schemes are worth around Rs 434.839 crore, 29 thousand. The Centre is releasing before March next the first installment worth Rs 97.83 crore against the schemes. However, the release of funds will depend on the progress of implementation of the schemes.

Gargaon College, in collaboration with ONGC, Nazira, is organising a national seminar on

The role of the State in implementing the bio-fertiliser schemes has been lauded by several quarters, including the Central Government. This became evident today at the North East Zonal Conference For Kharif. Joint Secretary, Integrated Nutrient Management of the Union Government Satish Chander expressed the hope while addressing the conference that Assam would be able to lead the NE States in this area. The representatives of the Regional Centre for Organic Fertiliser told the conference that the State has around 4032.9 hectare of certified farmland for organic farming.

A high-level expert committee meeting involving the representatives of the State Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Department and a host of other related departments today formally recommended the lifting of poultry import ban in Assam, with the final notification likely to be issued in two days. Moreover, the committee has also vouched for the formulation of a special developmental scheme, which would aim at compensating the loss incurred by the farmers of the poultry industry in the State after the government ordered culling of birds as a precautionary measure.

IMPHAL, Feb 17

AIZAWL, Feb 17

BOKAKHAT, Feb 17

NALBARI, Feb 17

GUWAHATI, Feb 17