The state government is responsible for the slow death of the state lottery, lottery agents have claimed. Alleging that the state government intends to privatise the lottery, they pointed out in a press release that although Diwali is approaching, the government has given no indication that the six weekly draws will be restarted. Buyers are staying away because the paper quality of tickets is bad and the numbers printed on them are not readable, they alleged.

Customs officials bestowed awards

M V Nair, Superintendent of Customs (Preventive) of the Marine and Preventive Wing, has been selected for the `Presidential Award' for Specially Distinguished Record of Service. Nair received the award from the Finance Minister at a function held in New Delhi recently. During his tenure, Nair had unearthed smuggling rackets and goods worth over Rs 18 crore. A sepoy from the Customs Preventive Commissionerate, V S Chalke, also received the award for distinguished recordof service.

Personality programme

The Divine Grace Youth Academy has started a personality development programme at Bhavan's AH Wadia High School, opposite the Andheri Sports Complex, JP Road, between 3 and 6.30 pm every Saturday. The programme, including yoga, dance, drama, art and craft and martial arts, will be on till February 1999. For further details, contact on 6361486, 6361945, 8724055.