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The Morung Express
Dimapur VOL. IX ISSUE 88
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You block your dream when you allow your fear to grow bigger than your faith Bhullar’s death sentence commuted to life term
By Sandemo Ngullie
Belly ache? Have you been stuffing yourself with junk food they sell inside our kids school premises? .. Forget ambulance, I`m calling the DC.
Expedite for a common Naga Future, says NSF Dimapur, march 31 (mExN): The Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) has appealed to the Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) and all Naga Political Groups to “expedite for a common Naga future, which has been a long cherished dream.” It called upon all Naga Political groups and all Nagas to honor and respect the agreement of the Naga Concordant towards a common goal. A press note from the NSF lauded the efforts of the FNR and the signing of the Lenten Agreement between the NSCN (IM), GPRN/ NSCN and the NNC/FGN. “A journey of common hope for the past six years has marked a milestone achievement in the history of the Naga Political Movement,” it stated. The Federation further extended support to the FNR in the process for the formation of a Naga National Government.
DMCEA suspends agitation temporarily Dimapur, march 31 (mExN): In view of favourable settlement of the present crisis of toll tax within a reasonable time, the DMC Employees Association (DMCEA), in its executive meeting held on March 31, has resolved to suspend the agitation temporarily. On demand of the DMCEA, the government has deputed a high official for enquiry of present crisis of toll tax for which enquiry is going on. DMCEA, general secretary, T Revo Anar, in a press release, stated that the report will be submitted by the concerned officers to the Government of Nagaland on the first week of April 2014.
Peace Building and Human Rights workshop conducted [ PAGE 2]
US, Russia offer differing solutions on Ukraine [ PAGE 9]
[ PAGE 11]
[ PAGE 8]
reflections
Vidya Balan Receives Padma Shri!
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Tuesday, April 1, 2014 12 pages Rs. 4 –Mary Manin Morrissey
Djokovic beats Nadal to win Key Biscayne title [ PAGE 10]
Global warming worsens food & hunger problems YOKOhama, march 31 (ap): Global warming makes feeding the world harder and more expensive, a United Nations scientific panel said. A warmer world will push food prices higher, trigger “hotspots of hunger” among the world’s poorest people, and put the crunch on Western delights like fine wine and robust coffee, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change concluded in a 32-volume report issued Monday. “We’re facing the specter of reduced yields in some of the key crops that feed humanity,” panel chairman Rajendra Pachauri said in press conference releasing the report. Even though heat and carbon dioxide are often considered good for plants, the overall effect of various aspects of manmade warming is that it will reduce food production compared to a world without global warming, the report said. The last time the panel reported on the effects of warming in 2007, it said it was too early to tell whether climate change would increase or decrease food production, and many skeptics talked of a greening world. But in the past several years the scientific literature has been overwhelming in showing that climate change hurts food production, said Chris Field of the Carnegie Institution of Science and lead author of the climate report. But this doesn’t mean in 50 years there will be less food grown. Thanks
Costs of climate change steep but tough to tally
YOKOhama, march 31 (ap): The economic and financial impact of global warming is complex and not well understood. In some scenarios there would be economic benefits for countries that get warmer and wetter and consequently more fertile agriculturally. Drier weather in some regions would result in sharply lower crop yields.
A Naga woman is seen selling vegetables in a marker in Dimapur. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change today stated in a report, that Global Warming will push food prices higher and trigger “hotspots of hunger” among the world’s poorest people. (Morung File Photo)
to the “green revolution” of improved agricultural techniques, crop production is growing about 10 percent per decade and climate change is likely to reduce yields by 1 percent a decade, so crop production will still go up, but not as fast, said David Lobell of Stanford University, one of the authors of the report’s chapter on food problems. Still, it is as if an anchor is weighing down the improvements to agriculture, Pachauri and Field said. Some places have seen crop yield increases drop from 2 percent a year to 1 percent or even plateau. And places like India, where 800 million people rely on rainfall not irrigation, the green revolution
never improved crops much, Pachauri said. Although changes in rainfall hurt, mostly the problem will be too much heat, Lobell said. “No place is immune,” he said. Food prices are likely to go up somewhere in a wide range of 3 percent to 84 percent by 2050 just because of climate change, the report said. “In a world where a billion people are already going hungry, this makes it harder for more people to feed their families,” said Tim Gore of Oxfam International, who wasn’t part of this study. While some crops may do slightly better, staples like wheat and corn will be hurt, the Nobel Prizewinning panel of scientists
said. The report specifically mentions warming squeezing out crops in some of the richer coffeegrowing areas in Central and South America, apple orchards in eastern Washington and cherry orchards in California. And where you get your wine may be changing. Both quantity and quality of wine can be hurt in much of Europe, the United States and Australia, but Portugal and British Columbia in Canada may become better places for wine, the report said. It’s not just crops on land. A warmer and more acidic ocean is changing where fish live, making them harder to catch, and making it harder to feed people who rely on fish, Pachauri said.
‘no order issued by MHA’
NEw DElhi, march 31 (pTi): The Home Ministry today trashed reports that it has refused permission to Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio to utilise the helipads of Assam Rifles at Ukhrul and Chandel in Manipur, saying the question of denying permission does not arise at all during elections. “No order has been issued by the Home Ministry denying permission to utilise the Assam Rifles helipads at Ukhrul and Chandel,” Joint Secretary in the Home Ministry
(North-East) Shambhu Singh told reporters here. Singh was referring to reports which suggested that Rio had accused him of not allowing his (Rio’s)
cases during general elections,” he said. Sources said when the Assam Rifles authorities had written a letter to the Home Ministry a few days back seeking its opinion on the request of Nagaland government to utlise the helipads at Ukhrul and Chandel, the Joint Secretary wrote back to the paramilitary force to approach the Election Commission or its representatives. “Who am I to do this ? This is for DEO, CEO and EC to decide,” Singh had said in his note to Assam Rifles.
Joint Secretary rejects report of refusing permission to Nagaland CM helicopter to land in the facilities of the paramilitary force in Manipur. “I completely refute the allegation. The Home Ministry has nothing to do in such
FOOD PRODUCTIVITY A need for more labor to produce food to offset dropping crop yields could leave fewer workers available for other work. As food becomes more expensive, consumers may shift to cheaper foods but also spend less on other goods and services. Climate change may also increase competition for labor, capital, Below are some of the costliest im- land and water. pacts, according to a 49-page summary from the Intergovernmental Panel on POVERTY Scientists say climate change will Climate Change which met in Yokohama worsen poverty, especially in tropical, near Tokyo this week. developing countries, but even in affluent countries. Climate-related diseases ENERGY Demand for residential air condition- such as malaria and diarrhea impair ing in the summer will rise from 300 ter- children’s cognitive and physical develawatt hours a year in 2000 to about 4,000 opment, while higher child death rates terawatt hours in 2050 and more than may lead parents to have more children, 10,000 terawatt hours in 2100. Rising in- reducing the amount of money available comes will drive most of that increase, cli- to care for and educate each child. mate change a quarter of it. For comparison, Vietnam currently consumes about CONFLICT Climate change raises the risks of vio100 terawatt hours of power in a year. lent conflict such as civil wars by amplifying the impacts of poverty and economic INFRASTRUCTURE Relocation of industries and com- crises, while increasing competition for munities will cost billions of dollars even scarce land, water and food. The resultin wealthy countries. Countries must also ing damage, deaths and instability would reckonwithdamagetotransportinfrastruc- exact a steep toll on affected economies. ture,homes,industriesandagriculturefrom increasinglyextremeweather,droughtsand INTANGIBLES Apart from the monetary toll from storms,especiallyinlow-lyingcoastalareas. damage and uncertainties connected with climate change many impacts will WATER The impact is unpredictable: wetter exact a price impossible to tally in dolweather could yield a windfall of $3 tril- lars and cents, said Rajendra Kumar lion in the U.S. in the 21st century; drier Pachauri, a co-chairman of the climate weather could raise costs by $13 trillion. change panel. “We mustn’t forget there Ensuring enough water for industry and are a lot of impacts that you cannot other consumption will cost about $12 quantify easily,” he said, such as human billion a year worldwide while develop- deaths, extinction of species, damage ment of water supply and provisioning in to ecosystems, loss of cultural heritage, developing countries will cost $73 billion. among many.
ACAUT Nagaland against Thailand OKs extradition donation drives in market of suspected arms dealer
Dimapur, march 31 (mExN): Against Corruption and Unabated Taxation (ACAUT) Nagaland has voiced out against “donation drives in the market,” that “cause undue harassment to the business community.” It termed such drives by any organization, student body, tribal organization or NGOs as “unacceptable and condemnable.” A press note from ACAUT Nagaland stated this after taking into consideration views intimated by the Konyak Students’ Union at a meeting with civil society leaders on March 24. Stating that Di-
mapur is especially a witness to “such unsavory activities,” ACAUT Nagaland stated that it would be ever vigilant on this count. “Also, the present trend of organizations, including civil society bodies asking for commission from contractors undertaking contract works in their respective areas is uncalled for and the public is called upon to bring such incidences to the notice of ACAUT Nagaland whenever possible,” it stated. ACAUT Nagaland informed that the Convener for its Public Grievances Cell can be contacted at 8974761098.
‘North East children not safe in Delhi’ Know your candidate for ls polls
guwahaTi, march 31 (iaNS): BJP prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi Monday said that “children from northeast are not safe in Delhi” and questioned Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi and Congress chief Sonia Gandhi on what they have done for them. “Children from northeast are not safe in Delhi. In Delhi, a northeast boy was killed. I want to ask Sonia Gandhi and ‘shehzada’ (a reference to Rahul Gandhi) when you had come here, you could have spoken at least a few words of comfort,” Modi said while referring to Nido Tania, a student from Arunachal Pradesh who was killed in the national capital. He said the Congress is busy with politics and does not see the crimes being committed against the
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people from the northeast in the national capital. “Your children will be killed but the Congress party will not remember it. So the people who forget you, how long do you want to remember them?” asked Modi at a rally here. He went on to say that there “will be no place in India where Congress will be able to win. This election is turning out to be one where the people have decided on the result even before the elections are held”. Earlier, addressing a rally in Itanagar, Modi accused the Congress of making false promises to the people. He said the Congress promised five years ago, when it won the last parliamentary election, to bring down food prices and check inflation. Both, he said, had not been done. “They (Congress) say
‘we do what we say’. The Congress in 2009 promised to check price rise. Did prices go down?” Modi asked loudly, getting a roaring “no” as the response from the crowd. He then asked, equally loudly, has inflation gone up. The crowd responded with a thunderous “yes”. Modi said that the Congress manifesto for the Lok Sabha election deceived people with more false promises. “The Congress ‘ghoshana patra’ is actually a ‘dhokha patra’,” he said. Both Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party leaders are focussing on the northeast now as it will kick off the first round of the staggered Lok Sabha election beginning April 7. Five of the 14 Lok Sabha constituencies in Assam and one of the two in Tripura will see polling April 7.
KOhima, march 31 (mExN): Keeping with Nagaland’s reputation, two of the three candidates contesting one seat (Nagaland) in the upcoming Lok Sabha election are crorepatis. Their average assets, as declared, stand at Rs. 11.15 crore. While it is yet unclear if any of these candidates will be able to bring equitable distribution of wealth to the Nagas through existing or new systems, the fact that all three of them are graduates will probably continue to help put more children to school in Nagaland at least. The details of each of the candidates were compiled by the Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR) and Nagaland Election Watch (NEW). SN Name
Age Party
1
Akhei Achumi 74
2 3
K.V. Pusa Neiphiu Rio
64 63
Highlights – Financial Details • Crorepati Candidates: Out of the 3 candidates analysed, 2 (67%) are crorepatis. • Average Assets: The average asset per candidate contesting in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections from Nagaland is Rs.11.15 Crores. • Candidate/party-wise Assets: The assets of Neiphiu Rio from NPF is Rs. 31.58 crores, that of K.V. Pusa from INC is Rs. 1.55 crores and that of Akhei Achumi of Socialist Pary (India) is Rs. 31.22 lakhs • Liability declared by Candidates: None of the candidates have declared any liabilities against themselves • Undeclared PAN: Of all the candidates, K V Pusa of INC has not declared his PAN details • Candidates’ Education details: All 3 contesting candidates are graduates. • Gender Information: None of the candidates are women. Source: ADR & NEW
Movable Assets (Rs)
Immovable Total Assets (Rs) Assets (Rs)
Socialist 2,42,000 28,80,000 31,22,000 31 Lacs+ Party (India) INC 40,00,000 1,15,00,000 1,55,00,000 1 Crore+ NPF 15,49,07,264 16,09,27,000 31,58,34,264 31 Crore+
Wuthikorn Naruenartwanich walks to a court room at criminal court in Bangkok, Thailand Monday, March 31. (AP Photo)
Thai accused of helping sell arms to Naga rebels BaNgKOK, march 31 (pTi): India received a shot in arm today when a Bangkok court approved the extradition of a Thai gun runner to face trial in India for helping sell nearly $2 million of arms to Naga rebels. India had secured an Interpol Red Corner Notice against 54-year-old Wuthikorn Naruenartwanich alias ‘Willy Naru’ after Anthony Shimray, one of the accused, alleged that he had paid for an arms consignment which included AK-series rifles for NSCN-IM cadre. India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) alleged that Shimray had struck a deal with Willy Naru for the arms consignment. The NIA registered a
case on the basis of information that National Socialist Council of Nagaland-Isak Chisi Swu and Thuengaleng Muivah faction (NSCN-IM) had contemplated purchasing huge quantity of arms and ammunitions from abroad since the beginning of 2008. Wuthikorn is suspected of helping to sell nearly $2 million worth of arms to the insurgent Naga group. He is accused of buying 1,000 rifles and several rocket-propelled grenades to be sold to Naga rebels. Wuthikorn apparently acted as a liaison for NSCN-IM and had links with a Chinese firm for gun procurement. Details of the extradition of Wuthikorn would be worked out soon, sources said. The court said prosecutors had provided evidence that Wuthikorn was the same person wanted by Indian authorities. The NIA would be soon sending a team to take his custody if the accused, arrested in August last year based on the Interpol warrant, did not move to a higher court to appeal against the order of the Bangkok Criminal court. India and Thailand have signed an extradition treaty after the visit of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to Bangkok in 2012. The treaty was signed after two decades of negotiations. NIA has already filed a chargesheet in this case and a trial was under way. Wuthikorn was being tried in absentia so far.
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erly understand the functioning of the department, the retiring officer urged the employees to be more dedicated and make the citizens understand the real meaning of the department. Sukhalu also said that with the launching of the website, everything about the department would now be in public domain. He lauded the employees for standing their ground against unwanted pressures and sincerely discharging their duties. Others who spoke during the programme included director of F&CS, Sedevikho; Anungba Sanglir ADS on behalf of district staff, Dr. Kepenlo Thong, ADS on behalf of Field Staff. Other well wishers also spoke during the programme.
Kohima, march 31 (mExN): “Conflict makes us understand the importance of peace. If there is any positive impact that conflict has taught Nagas, it is the importance of peace,” Meyilemla, a MA student of Nagaland University rightly said. She stated it during the workshop on ‘Peace Building and Human Rights’ which was held on March 27 and 28 at Nagaland University Lumami. Henry Martyn Institute (HMI) in collaboration with the Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights (NPMHR) and Post Graduate Students Union (PGSU) NU organised the workshop. Security, harmony, absence of violence, calmness, and forgiveness was some of the answers given by the University Students on the question of ‘What is peace?’ “There needs to be shifting perspective to understand peace,” said
Students of Nagaland University with others during the workshop organised by Henry Martyn Institute collaboration with Naga Peoples Movement for Human Rights on March 27 and 28.
Rakesh Moon from HMI while addressing as the resource person. Rakesh asserted that inclusivity is essential in peace building where everyone’s needs should be taken into account and that listening and talking are remedial
Of lights and sounds Morung Express News Dimapur | March 31
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“Roll over Beethoven,” crooned Chuck Berry, echoing in a revolution in popular music and providing a scathing repudiation of the radio friendly sounds, in 1950s America. In Nagaland however, the tables will have turned, with numerous music schools and artists assembling on April 5, to perform Nagaland’s first western classical music concert played by a full sized Orchestra. A refreshing divergence from the current live music scenario in the state! While artists take the limelight, there is however, a whole group of people breaking sweat to ensure the perfect atmosphere for those on and off the stage. Taking care of the stage, lights, sound and videography, these unsung heroes provide crucial service to any live event. For the show on April 5, four production companies have come together to deal with various aspects of the event.
(L-R) Samuel Shiu, Imjungmeren, Yanger Ossar Jamir and Atsung Jamir. (Morung Photo)
Yanger Ossar Jamir of Pixel graph, explains that the pressure is on, as coverage of this particular concert will be unlike those of other shows. He reveals that his team will focus on providing quality cinematic footage of the concert, while ensuring that the experience of the live audience is not hampered. “We have only one shot to get the perfect
angles,” he states and revels in the fact that his team has been given a lot of room for creativity. Atsung Jamir from Audio garage states that the technical complexities compound, when it come to engineering the sound for a show such as this. “It is unlike normal rock shows. The smallest of glitches are profoundly noticeable,” he
says. Atsung hopes to overcome these problems and expresses optimism that the event will provide a positive stimulus to the artists as well as to the overall theme of the event. Imjungmeren from Metal gear says that this one of a kind show provides new challenges to their work. Taking care of the stage production, his team will work to provide a spatial arrangement that can facilitate real connection between the performers and the artists. Working in tandem is Samuel Shiu and his team from Tribes. His team will toil to provide the perfect lighting environment for the show. Over a hundred people will be working together in the production of this event. The four have faith in their ability to complement each other; which is also shared by Zubeno Mozhui, from the organizing committee of the show. They express confidence that the production team will deliver the goods and facilitate a memorable concert.
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A WORSHIP CONCERT CELEBRATING ONENESS IN CHRIST CHOIR: SUMI BAPTIST CHURCH // KUDA BAPTIST CHURCH // CHAKHESANG BAPTIST CHURCH // LOTHA BAPTIST CHURCH // DIMAPUR CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP // DABA // PATKAI CHORALE // NAGALAND CONSERVATORY OF MUSIC // NAGALAND CHAMBER CHOIR // crown centre SOLOIST SOPRANO: JUDY SENOLOS HONOR TENOR: RUBIN LUKITO BASS: VISAHU PESEYIE ORGANIST: MRS. MARGARET SHISHAK PIANIST: MR. ZINGRIN SHISHAK STRING ENSEMBLE: MS. JUDY TAY // MS. LYDIA WONG // HOPE CENTRE FOR EXCELLENCE // JOEY WOCH STUDIO // PATKAI CHRISTIAN COLLEGE // CONDUCTOR: PASTOR RAZO VASA
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Sukhalu launches Food Peace Building and Human Rights workshop conducted & Civil Supplies website Peace is ‘Security, harmony, absence of violence, calmness and forgiveness’ public were yet to propDimaPUr, march 31 (mExN): Commissioner & Secretary for Food & Civil Supplies, KT Sukhalu on Monday inaugurated e2e-room and also launched the Department’s website in Dimapur at its Directorate. The website, fcs.nagaland.gov.in was launched with the objective of placing the activities of the Department in public domain. The public can get details of the list of BPL beneficiaries, AAY beneficiaries, details of godowns under F&CS etc. After the launching programme, the Department organised a farewell programme for K.T. Sukhalu who retires as the Commissioner & Secretary. In his speech, Sukhalu appreciated all staff for working towards progression of the department. Stating that
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5TH APRIL • 5:30 PM • DABA (DIMAPUR AO BAPTIST AROGO) ENTRY FREE • KINDLY BE SEATED BY 5 PM IN ASSOCIATION WITH
measures to achieve peace. Rakesh reminded the students that conflict is not just violence between the Indian army and the Naga army nor is it just factional clashes but conflict is also the exploitation of the weaker section by corrupt-
ed leaders and that peace building is everyone’s responsibility and not just the prerogatives of politicians and leaders. Rakesh further pointed out that in order to achieve peace one needs to understand human rights and
its violations because conflict arise when someone’s rights has been violated. The four areas to focus on peace building are the personal, relational, structural and cultural. The main objective of the workshop was to engage the students
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in participatory and reflective exercise to help build peace and the relationship between human rights and sustainable peace. Some of the areas, which were covered in the workshop, were understanding conflict and its transformation, basics of peace building, human rights and peace, peace building processes and skills and overcoming stereotypes, prejudices and generalizations. By the end of the workshop, the students were made to identify their areas in promoting peace building followed by open-hour discussions and interactions. HMI: International centre for research, interfaith relations and reconciliation has been working with Nagaland since 2001 and focuses on capacity building of individuals, organization, and institutions in the areas of knowledge, skills and attitudes for peace-building.
NagalaNd lok SaBHa Poll 2014 Photo exhibition on voters awareness at Dimapur A Photo exhibition on Voters Awareness was inaugurated on March 31 at Holy Cross School Dimapur by the chief guest, the Deputy Commissioner, Dimapur Hushili Sema IAS. The exhibition was organised by the Directorate of Advertising & Visual Publicity, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India. The Awareness programme will continue till April 2. The chief guest on her inaugural address said that this kind of programme was a first of its kind in the country and hoped that it will be beneficial to all of us. She also encouraged the first time voters and urged the youngsters to spread the news and enroll their names and take the opportunity for the right to vote. She wished all the best to the organisers and success of the programme. Earlier in the programme a welcome address was delivered by the Assistant Director DAVP, New Delhi, Monikant Thakur. Vote of thanks was delivered by the District Election Officer, Dimapur Toshi. The Programme was chaired by Information Assistant Medzhephima, Esuihangle. DC Peren warns on unlawful activities during election The Deputy Commissioner Peren, Peter Lichamo in a Public Appeal informed that as per Section 171 B of Indian Penal Code, any person giving or accepting any gratification in cash or kind during election process, with a view to inducing the person to exercise his electoral right is punishable with imprisonment up to one year or with fine or with both. He further stated that, as per section 171 C of Indian Penal Code, any person who threatens any candidate or elector, or any other person, with injury of any kind, is punishable with imprisonment up to one year or with fine or both. DC also informed that the Flying Squads have been formed to register cases against both the giver and the taker of bribe and for taking action against those who are engaged in threat and intimidation of electors further requested to refrain from taking any bribe or cases of threat/intimidation of electors, then he should inform on the Helpline No. 03839-267212 of the Complaint Monitoring Cell of the district, set up for receiving the complaints. General Observer takes assessment of election preparations in Mkg General Observer for the lone Nagaland Lok Sabha seat, A.A. Latief-u-Haman Deva (IAS) who is monitoring the election process in Mokokchung, Tuensang, Mon, Longleng and Kiphire districts met DC & ARO Mokokchung, Murohu Chotso and other officers related to elections at Dobashi’s Court Mokokchung on March 30. The General Observer assessed the entire electioneering process in compliance with guidelines/ rules issued by the Election Commission of India and also had wide ranging discussions on preparedness to conduct the election in a fair and free manner in the district. He called upon all the officers to complete all the exercises well in advance for free and fair election in the district.
Latief-u-Haman Deva also enquired about training of polling officials, security arrangements, EVMs and electoral rolls in the district. Liaison Officer, Er. Yanger Pongen said the General Observer will be visiting Mon and other districts beginning from March 31. Meanwhile, the DC & ARO Mokokchung appointed 10 (Ten) Micro Observers on March 27 to oversee the elections in the ten Assembly segments in the district. DC Zbto informs on EVM acquaintance Deputy Commissioner & ARO, Zunheboto, L. Akato Sema has informed all polling personnel drafted for election duty that EVM facilitation desk service will be available for those who want to have more intensive hands-on-training on EVM commencing from 2nd April to 5th April between 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at DC office Zunheboto. Mkg BLOs training on April 4 DC & ARO Mokokchung has informed all the Booth Level Officers of Mokokchung district to attend a one day training/briefing on April 4 at Town Hall at 11:00 a.m. ARO also informed those BLOs who do not have their Identity Card to bring along two passport photographs. Training on EVMs for polling personnel of kohima The DC & DEO Kohima, W. Honje Konyak in a press release informed the Polling Personnel of Kohima district that Facilitation Training on handling of EVMs and various Statutory and Non-Statutory Forms will be conducted from April 4 to 6 from 10:00 a.m. onwards at DCs Conference Hall, Kohima. Polling Personnel who wish to avail the opportunity of facilitation training are informed to attend to clear all doubts and with a target to achieve smooth management of conduct of poll. DC Zbto informs on 3rd phase training Deputy Commissioner & ARO Zunheboto, L. Akato Sumi has informed all the government employees drafted for election duty under Zunheboto district that the 3rd phase training for polling personnel will be held on 4th April for the Presiding and 1st Polling Officials and 5th April for the 2nd and 3rd polling at 10 a.m. at District Cultural Hall and not as notified earlier. The DC further stated that failing to attend the training will be viewed seriously. 2nd phase election training held at Peren The 2nd Phase of Lok Sabha Election training for the polling personnel of Peren District was conducted at the local ground on March 29. DC Peren Peter Lichamo while addressing the gathering said that all the polling personnel should feel privileged to be part of the election process as they are involving themselves as a machinery of Democracy and further stated that there is no compromise for peace and fair election. He also urged the gathering to attend the training seriously and effectively to make sure that no problem arises while discharging their duties. Polling personnel from 7 Peren A/C and 6 Tening A/C along with Master Trainer attended the training. The final phase of polling personnel will be held on 7th March 2014 at 11 a.m. at Local Ground.
DC & ARO Mkg informs on EDC In connection with the conduct of election to the Lok Sabha, 2014, DC & ARO, Mokokchung, Murohu Chotso has informed that facilitation centre for Election Duty Certificate (EDC) for polling personnel, drivers (Govt. & private) conductors/cleaner and other persons appointed/engaged for election related duties has been set up in the office of the ADC Planning, Mokokchung from March 25 to April 2. All concerned are informed to inquire for EDC along with photocopy of EPIC/ID Card/Duty Order/ Appointment Order etc. It is also informed that no application for EDC shall be entertained after April 2. Programme on SVEEP at Mokokchung Asstt. Election Officer, Mokokchung, Roland Merry has informed that in connection with the conduct of election to the Lok Sabha 2014, and as part of Systematic Voters Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) campaign, DC & DEO, Mokokchung is organizing a programme on April 2 from 10:30 a.m. at Dobashi’s Court, DC office complex, Mokokchung. All concerned are requested to attend the programme. SVEEP campaign held at Wokha In continuation of the SVEEP Campaign for Lok Sabha election 2014 and to create awareness for conduct of free and fair election the District Administration and Election Department in collaboration with youth Department Wokha Town Baptist Church organised Debate and painting competition on the topic “Clean Election” at Don Bosco Youth Centre on March 29. Earlier in the morning marathon race was also held, where over six hundred participants took part in the competition. Deputy Commissioner, Wokha Vyasan R. addressing the prize distribution function held at Don Bosco Youth Centre expressed gratitude to the Youth department WTBC for the support and co-operation extended for the successful conduct of the programme. SVEEP programme held at Peren Peren Town Baptist Church Youth Sport meet Closing Ceremony cum SVEEP Programme was held on March 29 at Sunday School Hall, Peren Town Baptist Church with Special Appearance from Alobo Naga, Nagaland State Icon. ADC Peren, Dr. Kadambari Bhagat exhorted the gathering especially the youth to participate in the election through voting. She urged them to exercise their franchise so as to make a strong democracy. She also highlighted the new aspect of NOTA, incase a voters do not wish to vote for any of the contesting candidate. The programme was chaired by Kiriading Meru President, PTBC, Youth Department while invocation was pronounced by N. Gobi Youth Advisor. Introductory Speech was given by Joybell AEO Peren and Election theme song was presented by District Icon, Namnahei Nza. Vote of thanks was delivered by Paulamlungbe and benediction by Izietilung ES ZBCC. The programme was followed by demonstration of EVM by Namren and Special Presentation by Alobo Naga Nagaland State Icon and signature campaign (DIPR News)
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Narendra Modi promises to change Assam situation SIVSAGAR, MARCH 31 (PTI): Promising to change the Assam situation, Narendra Modi on Monday assured voting rights to migrants from Bangladesh and restoring their honour, while holding "political blunders" responsible for their plight. He also trained his guns at UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, accusing her of doubting the patriotism of 125 crore citizens of India and misleading them on "so-called fulfilment of Congress poll promises". "They (Cong) have not given voting rights to Indian citizens (in Assam). They have given it to people who come in from Bangladesh. Around two lakh such people are there in camps. Our dream is to give them rights. The Hindus who have come from Bangladesh are refugees. They are here because of their compulsions," Modi said
during a public meeting. "They have come here due to our political blunders. So it is our responsibility to give them respect and security. It is not that only Assam should take up this burden but the entire country should do it. We cannot push them out of the country," Modi said. "Sonia came to Assam yesterday and 'deshbhakti ke dhol peet rahe the'(beating the drums of patriotism). Do the poor and others have to learn about patriotism from Congress and Soniaji?", Modi asked. "Will Soniaji now give certificates to 125 crore people on patriotism? Do we have to take tuitions from you (Sonia) on this. It is an insult to us to raise such an allegation'', he added. "Soniaji, now that you have opened your mouth on such a sensitive issue, you have to give an answer
Amid election heat, Sonia-Modi in war of words
footpaths and that is why I have come to take your blessings," Modi said. Attacking the Congress NuH/ITANAGAR/GuwAHATI, MARCH 31 (IANS): The Congress-BJP war of words escalated Monday, with Congress president Sonia Gandhi charging the for not providing employBJP with indulging in "politics of hate" and BJP star Narendra Modi accusing the ment to the youth, he said that it was the first responCongress of making "false promises". Without taking Modi's name, Gandhi told an election rally in Nuh in Mewat sibility of the government district of Haryana that the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) was misleading the peo- to provide jobs but it had ple to grab power. "They (BJP) indulge in politics of hate and its leaders have their failed to do so. On Sonia's claims that eyes set on the post of the prime minister," she said. Modi, addressing rallies in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, accused the Con- Congress makes no false gress of making false promises. "They (Congress) say 'we do what we say'. The promises, he said, "Sonia Congress in 2009 promised to bring down price rise, but did it go down?" asked is fooling the people by just Modi in Itanagar. His question was received with a roaring "no". He then asked if not throwing dust but also pepper into their eyes. Now inflation has risen. The crowd responded with a thunderous "yes". Leaders of both the parties are focusing on the northeast now as it will kick off pepper is being thrown in Parliament also." the first round of the staggered Lok Sabha polls beginning April 7. "It is the responsibility to the people. Attacking the Congress who will not have shelter of those in government to The nation wants an for indulging in "vote bank over their heads," Modi answer. Don't dare to ques- politics", Modi said Assam said. tion the patriotism of the has been ruined due to this "And it will not just be a people and insult them", and people working in the home but will have a tap... he said. tea gardens too have the the house will have water, Sonia claimed yester- right to a good life. electricity, proper sanitaday in Assam that she does "You bring a BJP gov- tion facilities and will also not indulge in "big talk" ernment in Delhi and we have schools and hospitals while the Congress makes will ensure that every poor for old and children nearno false promises and they will have a house. There will by. We do not want a counpromise what they can do. be no poor in this country try where poor sleep on
1,198,970 males cast their votes while 93.02 percent of the 1,156,476 female electorates exercised their franchise," Jindal added. Tripura made electoral history during the 2013 Assembly polls when a record 93.57 percent ballots were cast. The state recorded 92 percent polling in the 2008 state election. Jindal said: "Since the first election in 1952, this was an all-time record in the electoral history of India." The CEO said: "Of the 3,095 polling stations in the state, we are trying to set up at least 10 with only women polling personnel." Renowned political analyst Tapas Dey said: "Political consciousness among both tribals and non-tribals in Tripura is very high. The men leaders in the state always try to empower women, both politically and economically." According to the official, 57 percent of the total electorate (2,385,559) in Tripura is below 40 years of age.
Jubilee Memorial School, Mokokchung
IMPHAl, MARCH 31 (TNN): The underground Kuki National Army, India (KNA-I), has banned Congress in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections in the Outer Manipur constituency, blaming it of jeopardizing the peaceful existence of the Kukis in the state. Following the ban, security has been beefed up particularly in the hill areas, to ensure a smooth polling, a source said. Deputy
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chief minister Gaikhangam, who also holds the home portfolio, however, said the ban has not affected the party's campaign in the hills. "The ban has no impact on our campaign. Nevertheless, security should be beefed up at the hyper sensitive and sensitive areas," Gaikhangam, who is also the PCC president, said on Sunday. Congress has fielded its sitting MPs - Thangso Baite
and Thokchom Meinya for the Outer Manipur and Inner Manipur seats. KNA (I) is not among the over 20 Kuki militant organizations who have signed the Suspension of Operation (SOO) with the state and central governments, sources said. Official efforts are on for the SOO signatory cadres, numbering over 2,000, to exercise their franchise rights in the polls.
OFFICE OF THE CHINGDANG STUDENTS’ UNION B.P.O.Wakching Dist. Mon, Nagaland Pin No.798622
FELICITATION We, the Chingdang Students’ Union convey our immense joy and heartiest congratulation to Mr. S. Longnyei Konyak S/o. Lt. Shangmei Konyak for being appointed to the post of Extra Assistant Commissioner (EAC) through recently declared NPSC examination in merit. The people of our village are overjoyed and thankful to our almighty god, for you have brought laurel and honour to our village as a first gazette officer. The union wish and pray that our almighty God bless you with good health and success in all his future endeavour. Mr. O. Phongjai Konyak President Chingdang Students’ Union
Invitation
The Jubilee Memorial School family cordially invites all the pioneers, former teachers and staffs, alumni and parents to come and attend the School’s Silver Jubilee Celebration programme at 11:00 AM on Thursday, the 3rd of April, 2014 at Town Hall, Mokokchung. Your presence would be a great blessing and honour for the school.
Programme Date: 3rd April, 2014
Venue: Town Hall, Mokokchung
Time: 11:00 AM
Theme: Awakening Another Aspiration Chief Guest Smt. Banuo Z. Jamir IAS Chief Secretary, Government of Nagaland Chairperson : Bible Reading & Thanksgiving Prayer : Welcome Address : A Tribute : Speeches :
The Happy Jubilee Jubilee Honour Chief Guest Address Release of Souvenir Vote of Thanks & Benediction
Mr. M. Tongmeth Konyak Secretary Chingdang Students’ Union
:
Ms. Shilula Imchen Mr. Neken, Deacon, MTBA Mr. S.K Maiti, Principal, JMS Imliwapang Jamir & Jason Puro (i) Rev. Ponen Longchar, Pastor MTBA (ii) Dr. Imtiwati, Chairman, BOG (iii) Mr. Tongpangshilu (iV) Dr. Toshila School Choir
: :
Rev. Luin Jamir Convener, Jubilee Planning Committee
LUNCH
Jubilee Celebration from 2:00 P.M
GOVT. OF NAGALAND NAGALAND EDUCATION MISSION SOCIETY RASHTRIYA MADHYAMIK SHIKSHA ABHIYAN
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were given job opportunities but during the last 10 years only 1.25 crore were given jobs"", Modi claimed. The BJP's Prime Ministerial candidate also played on the development agenda, saying if his party is voted to power, it will ensure shelter for every poor of the country. Taking a jibe at the Congress, Modi said that earlier parties used to come together to oust the government but this elections, they are coming together and making schemes just to ensure that Modi does not come.
Celebrating 25 years of glorious existence…
Tripura voters' gender ratio Kuki militants ban Congress in Manipur exceeds national average AGARTAlA, MARCH 31 (IANS): At 963 females to 1,000 males in the electoral rolls, Tripura's gender ratio is higher than the national average of 908 and of many other states, an official said here on Monday. The gender ratio among voters is narrowing in Tripura, where tribals constitute a third of the 3.7 million population. "The gender ratio in Tripura was 933 females to 1,000 males during the 2004 Lok Sabha polls. It increased to 954 in 2009 and has gone up further to 963 this time (2014)," Tripura Chief Electoral Officer Ashutosh Jindal told a news agency. According to the final electoral rolls published in January this year, a total of 2,385,559 voters, including 1,170,360 females, have been enrolled. In the last Assembly Election held on February 14 last year, women cast more votes than the men. "In the Assembly poll, 90.89 percent of the total of
give an account of the work done for the people during the last ten years.They are, however, not ready to give an account as their arrogance has reached its zenith," he charged. The 2009 Congress manifesto had promised that each member of family will be given a job and again in 2014 manifesto which "actually is a 'Dhokapatra' (a bluff document) they have promised employment to 10,000 crore youths". "Has anybody been given a job? However, during the only six years tenure of A B Vajpayee, 6,500 crore youths
NAGALAND: KOHIMA
ADVERTISEMENT FOR RECRUITMENT OF TEACHERS FOR VOCATIONAL EDUCATION Dated Kohima, 31st March’2014 NO. RMSA/ VOC/2013-14/998-1002: Applications in the prescribed format are invited from bonafide Indian citizens for filling up of the following posts for secondary vocation& education teachers under the establishment of RMSA: Sl.No 1 2 3 4
Name of the Posts Information Technology Travel & Tourism Vocational Coordinator Laboratory Assistant (IT) Total
No. of Posts 5 5 5 5 20
Honorarium Rs.25,000 p.m (10 months –in a year) Rs.25,000 p.m (10 months –in a year) Rs.35,000 p.m (12 months) Rs.15,000 p.m (10 months –in a year)
1. Minimum prescribed educational qualification for the different posts are as follows Sl.No Post 1 2
3
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 4
Late L Joykumar Meetei 01-11-1961: 24-03-2 014
Through this column we would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to all individuals, friends and well wishers who stood by us and supported us physically, materially, financially and hospitalisation and sudden demise of our beloved Late L Joykumar Meetei on 24th March 2014. We are not able to thank every person individually but we remain indebted and grateful to each one of you for your kindness. We pray that our Heavenly Father would bless you all abundantly. Loving wife and children
Essential Information BCA./B.Sc(Computer Science)/ BSC(IT) OR 3 year Diploma in Technology Teacher Computer Science & Engineering OR IT, ITes, OR DOEACC ( A- level) from any UGC recognized University. Bachelor’s degree in Tourism or equivalent from a recognized university Travel & Tourism with 2 years experience in teaching/ industry Bachelor’s degree from a Teacher recognized university with Diploma in Travel and Tourism with 5 years teaching/working experience in a travel agency. Vocation Graduate in any discipline from a recognized university with Co-ordinator 3 years of experience in management and implementation of technical assistance projects/contracts, Should have sound knowledge in basic Computer application. Laboratory Assistant(IT)
Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science/Applications from any recognized University
Qualification Minimum aggregate in Graduation 50% for General 45% for SC/ST 40% for Backward Naga Tribes. 50% for General 45% for SC/ST 40% for Backward Naga Tribes. 50% for General 45% for SC/ST 40% for Backward Naga Tribes
50% for General 45% for SC/ST 40% for Backward Naga Tribes
Desirable 1. B.Ed or any other professional degree for teaching Secondary Schools. 2. Post Graduate Qualification and teaching experience of one year. 1. B.Ed/M.Ed or any other professional degree for teaching Secondary Schools. 2. Masters Degree in Tourism Administration or equivalent * Strong communication skill. * Written communication skill. (English) *Computer skill backed by MCA degree. *Team building skills. * Guidance and counseling skills. * Ability to function as a Master Trainer. Experience of handling tools and Stores with basic knowledge of Hard and software.
2. All appointments shall be on contract. Payment of salaries is subject to the release of fund by MHRD (GOI). 3. The minimum age of a candidate shall not be less than 21 years and shall not be more than 30 years of age as on 01/01/2014. The upper age limit is relaxable by 5 (five) years for a candidate belonging to ST/SC, Age relaxation for serving Government employees will be allowed the equal nos of years they are in service subject to a maximum of five years. 4. Upper age limit for the specially challenged persons will be relaxable by 10 (ten) years. 5. 3% post reservation for the specially challenged will be maintained as per Government Notification NO.AR-3/C1F.N/9/97 Dated 16-01-2008. Reservation for the Backward Naga Tribes shall be maintained as per the norms followed by the govt. of Nagaland. 6. The candidate should be willing to serve anywhere in the State of Nagaland. 7. The following self attested documents should be submitted along with the Application Form: a. HSLC/HSSLC/PU/Degree Admit Card, Mark sheet, Academic and Professional Certificates b. Indigenous Inhabitant Certificate c. Schedule Tribe Certificate d. Employment Exchange Card e. 4 (four) copies of recent colour passport size photographs. 8. All supporting documents in original MUST be presented for verification when called for interview. 9. Incomplete applications shall be summarily rejected without information. 10. Application Form can be obtained from the office of the undersigned on payment of Rs. 100/- in cash on any working day from 3rd April 2014, 11. Application forms can also be downloaded at http:// www.naland.nic.in. Payment of Rs. 100 can be made while submission of form for the downloaded forms. 12. Examination fee of Rs. 400/- shall be collected from each applicant who qualifies for the written test. However, Nagaland Education Mission Society reserves the right to conduct or not to conduct written examination depending upon the number of suitable applicants. 13. Application should be addressed to the Mission Director; RMSA, Old Assembly Secretariat, Kohima-797001 and will be received till 15 April' 2014. No application will be entertained after the specified date. 14. The undersigned reserves the right to reject any or all applications without assigning reason to the applicant(s). 15. It shall be the prerogative of the Nagaland Education Mission Society to relax the essential qualifications necessary. Sd/ (THEJAO VIHIENUO) State Mission Director RMSA: Kohima
C M Y K
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Dimapur
Tuesday 1 April 2014
Indian economy more stable; deficit will come down: PC
new DelhI, March 31 (IanS): The Indian economy is more stable than it was 20 months back and businesses are comfortable with the UPA, Finance Minister P. Chidambaram said Monday hitting back at BJP’s criticism of economic mismanagement. Chidambaram criticised BJP prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi saying that his brand of liberalism is “crony capitalism” and aims to appease only a section of businesses. Addressing a press conference a day after former finance minister and senior BJP leader Yashwant Sinha called him “a spoiler” of the Indian economy, Chidambaram said: “The economy today is far more stable and far stronger than it was 20 months ago.” “Nobody is talking about downgrades today,” he stressed. Chidambaram said many of the 18 questions posed by Sinha are “quite puerile” and do not deserve discussion. At a media conference Sun-
day, Sinha had slammed Chidambaram terming him a spoiler of the economy and posed 18 questions ranging from growth, rupee slide to infrastructure. “Businesses are comfortable with Manmohan Singh and his finance minister... there is a section of businesses that is comfortable with BJP and Narendra Modi,” Chidambaram said. “His (Modi) brand of liberalism is crony capitalism,” Chidambaram said. The finance minister claimed that the country’s current account deficit is estimated to come down to $35 billion in the 2013-14 financial year from a record high of $88 billion in the previous year. On fiscal deficit, he said it would be around 4.6 percent of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), as outlined by him in the union budget for 2013-14. Chidambaram said the government has also succeeded in controlling inflation and creating more jobs. “We have contained
Honda to be 3rd biggest passenger car company in India
chennaI, March 31 (Tnn): Riding on the back of successful launches like the Amaze compact sedan and the new City, Honda Cars India is all set to emerge as the third biggest passenger vehicle company in India alongside SUV major M&M this March. According to top sources in the auto finance circuit, Honda is among the few car companies that have managed to buck the slowdown in the automobile market. “We expect Honda to clock anywhere between 18,000-20,000 units in retail this month,” said the head of one of the top three auto finance companies. “Given that M&M also sells around 19,000 units a month, it would put Honda on par with the third biggest passenger vehicle company in India after Maruti and Hyundai.” Honda sold 15,700 odd vehicles in January 2014 and around 14,300 units in February. Thanks to the excise reduction, year-end push, spectre of a price rise and March 31 being both Gudi Padwa in Maharastra and Ugadi in southern markets, this month is expected to bring in good retail numbers for the auto industry. “March has seen good footfalls and bookings and there will be a rush of deliveries on March 31,” said the head of another of the top three auto finance companies. “We expect this March to be on par with last year and showing a growth month-on-month and Honda, with its sweet spot products, is doing very well. Its next launch Mobilio MPV should help improve that tally,” he added. When contacted, both Honda Cars India and M&M officials refused to comment.
inflation. Our biggest success is containing fiscal deficit. We will end financial year 2013-14 with a fiscal deficit of 4.6 percent, as planned,” he said. The finance minister claimed that the unemployment rate has come down during the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. On the surge in the stock markets, Chidambaram said it is because of the UPA government’s policy and should not be seen as a rally for the Bharatiya Janata Party’s (BJP) possible victory in the general election. Chidambaram said his ten-point agenda outlined in the interim budget for the fiscal 2014-15, could help India return to the higher growth trajectory. “I talked about a ten-point agenda for the economy in my Vote on Account speech. It is not a party specific agenda. Any government that is concerned about the economy will have to follow this,” he said.
businEss
The Morung Express
TCS tops in enterprise mobility services
Bangalore, March 31 (IanS): Indian IT bellwether Tata Consulting Services (TCS) has been evaluated as leader in enterprise mobility services by industry market researcher IDC for securing highest scores in customer satisfaction, innovation and productivity. “Of the 14 mobility service providers evaluated on 117 parameters, customers rated TCS high in resource scalability, HTML (hyper text mark-up language) skills, thought leadership and ability to improve,” the US-based International Data Corporation (IDC) said in a statement here Monday. Though enterprises worldwide are investing more in building mobile applications as part of their mission-critical business objectives, skills shortage and rising mobile infrastructure costs are impeding them from achieving their mobility goals. “As a result, enterprises are
looking to service providers like TCS for mobility expertise and guidance to build, test and manage mobile applications moving forward,” IDC spokesperson Pete Marston said, citing the report. The Mumbai-based global software major helps its global customers in telecom space to leverage mobility to develop new business models, reach new subscribers, create new channels and improve business processes and workplaces. “As we are a customer-centric organisation, focused on our customers’ success, they have evaluated our execution capability in enterprise mobility services very high,” TCS digital enterprise global head Satya Ramaswamy said on the occasion. The company’s mobility delivery centres serve about 250 clients across geographies with products and services and partnerships, leveraging the power of mobile devices.
Vodafone hikes call rates by 20 per cent
MuMBaI, March 31 (agencIeS): Come next bill cycle, Vodafone India’s Mumbai subscribers will have to pay as much as 20 per cent more for calls they make to other networks. In a text communique sent to its subscribers, Vodafone said that they will have to pay 50 paise per minute for off-net calls. “Effective your net bill cycle any local calls from Vodafone to other mobiles will be charged 50 paise per minute.
The rest of the plan benefits remain unchanged,” the text said, which was sent to some of its post-paid subscribers, who are mostly on corporate plans. The network charges as much as 30 paise per minute for calls made within the Vodafone network. A call centre executive said that this standard tariff will be applied to subscribers across the circle. The operator has 7.1 million subscribers in Mumbai, and
is also the largest operator of the circle. “It does not account to a headline change in tariffs. We are not thinking of any such increase right now,” said a rival telecom company executive. A Vodafone spokesperson did not respond to queries on the development. Experts and analysts have said that pricing power is back to the top three operators-Bharti Airtel, Vodafone India and Idea Cellular. This
is ever since competitive intensity reduced after challengers like Uninor and Sistema Shyam became fringe players who do not operate across the country. The Supreme Court quashed 122 telecom licences granted in 2008 in early 2012. At a conference earlier, the managing director of Bharti Airtel, the largest telecom operator Gopal Vittal also said call rates will continue to increase for the next few years.
RBI wants govt to reduce stake in state-run banks
MuMBaI, March 31 (BS): The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has suggested lower government stake in public sector banks, which it says, is essential for robust corporate governance practices in the wake of these lenders’ deteriorating asset quality and rating downgrades. The recommendation is part of a detailed blueprint for sweeping reforms in public sector banks that the central bank has prepared. The paper is being discussed with the finance ministry and would be taken up with the next government on a priority basis, for implementation. Highlighting the importance of granting complete
autonomy in the day-to-day operations of public sector banks so that they can effectively compete with their private sector peers, the RBI has said such autonomy was contingent upon the government reducing its stake, especially at a time when the government is resorting to borrowing for capital infusion in its banks. The banking regulator has identified two areas which it terms as the genesis of all problems facing public sector banks -- government ownership that creates a constraint in efficient operations of banks and successive regulatory and supervisory forbearance granted to government
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LEISURE
Simple Rules - There is just one simple rule: “Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box co ntains the digits 1 through 9.”
SUDOKU Game Number # 2836
banks which is a reason for poor performance. Under the Banking Regulation Act, the government must hold a minimum 51 per cent stake in public sector banks. However, in several cases, the stake is as much as 80 per cent. The RBI has also suggested that both the government and the regulator should not be involved in the process of appointing top managements and should withdraw from public sector banks’ boards. The central bank is of the view that not only the chairman and managing directors should be split - as the CMD enjoys absolute power and often dominates the
board - the chief executive should also be given a fixed five-year tenure. Reforms have been suggested by the regulator for a whole range of issues, from accountability in loan sanctioning to human resource management and also accountability of the board. The central bank has proposed that lateral movement of staff should start at an early stage - deputy general manager and general manager level - so that the candidate is made aware of the bank that he or she may be heading in future. It has also indicated that lateral movement should be contemplated even for State Bank of India (SBI).
DAILY CROSS WORD
CROSSWORD # 2844
public discoursE
Significance Of Monyu Festival
T
he Phom Monyu festival is celebrated for 6 days beginning from 1st to 6th of April every year. This is a spring festival normally observed after the sowing is done in paddy fields. This is to invoke God’s blessing to have a bountiful harvest. Monyu also marks the end of winter and the onset of the monsoon season. Traditionally it is also a time of jubilation, sharing of love and concern with relatives and friends by the exchange of gift, rice beer, meat and various food items and also by making merriment. Wealthy ones and warriors also exhibited social status by dressing and family members with unique attires during this Monyu festival . Monyu is also the time when young boys and girls would be taught the customary practices. Folk song and dances would be taught during Monyu. It is also the time when young boys renew the curtail relationship with their close friends by inviting them to have feast, which is called MONGCHEMBA HAHYING. The first day SHONGTEN LAIPHEN:- On this day, plantain leaves and bamboos for steaming food items are collected. The second day AIHA OKSHOK:- On this day, each peer groups get together to celebrate the feast by killing their jointly bought animals. The third day CHINGI OKSHOK:-On this day, every family that has animal be slaughtered for the celebration of the festival. The fourth day YENTHIU:-Which means arrival of guest, Relatives and friends from far and near come and feast together. The fifth day CHINGTHEM:- The whole community members celebrate the feast by singing, dancing, drinking rice beer, beating log drum. The sixth day YEN-YAN:- T his is the closing day and dispersal day. In this way The Monyu festival of PHOMS is Celebrated with great significant. Monyu is the time when sisters and daughter s who are married are reminded that they are still honoured and cared for, they would be invited to parent’s or brother’s house to celebrate the feast together. And many gift s foods items and thigh of the animal slaughtered in the festival would be given to them. This is called the NYIUKHA MOO. Married daughters or sisters will prepare a special food items and distribute to the elders of the clan to shows their love and honour and also take the blessing from the elderly people. With the advent of Christianity, followed by the mass conversion in to Christianity; for some time, the Phom did not give much importance to traditional festival. Because, traditional beliefs and practices as devilish and outdated. And it because of this kind of wrong understanding that many of Phom’s culture were lost. But today, with the dawn of new understanding that Christianity can also be adapted to the Phom culture and that traditional values can also be incorporated in the process of modernisation Phom youngsters are making strong effort to rediscover and preserve or rich heritage. Students unions of every Phom village are playing commendable role in this direction. Therefore, today Monyu is seen as synthesis of traditional and modern was sails. Hence, it is important to mention that in and age where rapid change is taking place in every dimensions of our lives. The Phom-Naga youngster must also continue to make every effort for the preservation and development of our rich cultural heritage. (A DIPR feature by N.Ayong Phom, APRO Noklak)
Readers may please note that the contents of the articles, letters and opinions published do not reflect the outlook of this paper nor of the Editor in any form. DIMAPUR
Civil Hospital:
STD CODE: 03862
Metro Hospital: Faith Hospital: Shamrock Hospital Zion Hospital: Police Control Room Police Traffic Control East Police Station West Police Station CIHSR (Referral Hospital) Dimapur hospital ApolloHospitalInfoCentre: Railway: Indian Airlines ChumukedimaFireBrigade Nikos Hospital and Research Centre Nagaland Multispecialty Health & Research Centre
Answer Number # 2835
KOHIMA
Police Control Room: North Police Station: South Police Station: Fire Brigade: Naga Hospital: Oking Hospital: Bethel Nursing Home: Northeast Shuttles
232224; Emergency229529, 229474 227930, 231081 228846 228254 231864, 224117, 227337 228400 232106 227607 232181 242555/ 242533 224041, 248011 230695/9402435652 131/228404 229366 282777 232032, 231031 248302, 09856006026
STD CODE: 0370 100/2244279 2222222 2222111 2222952 2222916 2243339 2224202
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59. Express in words 60. Legal wrong 61. Sticker 62. Historical periods 63. Is endebted to 64. Manicurist’s board 65. Was a passenger
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Ans to CrossWord 2843
DIMAPUR: 03862-232201/101 (O) 9436601225 (OC) CHUMUKEDIMA: 03862-282777/101 (O) WOKHA: 03860-242215 (O) 9402643782 MOKOKCHUNG: 0369-2226225/101 (O) 9856872011 (OC) PHEK: 03865-223838/101 (O) 9436012949 (OC)
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LOCAL
The Morung Express
Rahul Gandhi’s address lacked intellect, vision, motivation: NPF Dimapur, march 31 (mExN): The Naga People’s Front (NPF) today alleged that Congress in Nagaland seems to have lost all sense of direction, that its leaders were exposed for feeding their high command with lies and false allegations while referring to Rahul Gandhi’s speech in Nagaland, which the NPF called “lies and wrong information.” After being pulled up by its feared high command in Delhi, the Nagaland Congress could only point their fingers at the NPF, a press statement issued by NPF Press & Media Bureau stated. It claimed that the state of affairs in the Congress indicates the lack of vision and clarity on any aspect. “The Congress leaders in Nagaland in the past decade have miserably failed to provide any vision to the Naga people, particularly the youth. They have become habitual liars and have passed on this undesirable habit to its high command. They have become an opposition that is stuck in making false allegations, unjustified accusations and time and again they have repeated these lies at every given opportuni-
ty. Their book of false allegations is a compilation of questions raised in the assembly over the past years, all of which have been satisfactorily replied with facts and figures,” accused the statement. The NPF further stated that Rahul Gandhi’s address to the people lacked any intellectually convincing agenda and there was neither vision nor motivation for the youth. “Sonia’s son probably has some of the best minds of the country working for him from behind the scenes, but even then his capability has been exposed time and again,” it added. “He has failed to convince the people of the region in all his visits to different states of the north east, apart from making promises and commitments.” Stating that the people of the North East want action and decisions, not promises and commitments which remain pipe dreams, NPF said the “Congress leaders in Nagaland have become spiteful and their below the belt politics reveals their intent.” NPF accused the Congress of being jealous to see the growth and strengthening of the
Tuesday 1 April 2014
Dimapur, march 31 (mExN): A fire broke out at Vihokhu village on March 31 at around 2:30 pm, gutting down nearly thirty rooms. A press note from Dimapur Police informed that two pharmacies, one grocery shop, one cycle repair shop, one electronic rice mill and some fifteen other shops were destroyed by the flames. One rented house, belonging to the Vihokhu Baptist Church was completely razed down. Police informed that strong winds had made it very difficult for the personnel to control the flames. An on the spot assessment reported that approximately 1 Crore worth of property was destroyed by the fire. There was no casualty and the cause of fire could not be ascertained till the filing of this report.
NPF. “The election of Neiphiu Rio as the leader of the North East Regional Parties Front (NERPF) speaks volumes of the acceptability of the NPF and the Chief Minister of Nagaland in the eyes of the people of the region.” Though, Congress belong to a national party, NPF said, “they have failed to serve the people and they have succeeded only in serving the Gandhi family in far-away Delhi, who come on a flying visit once in five years during elections.” As for Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, it stated, his two terms of prime ministership will come to an end without having set foot on the 16th State of the Indian Union. The NPF while expressing confidence that Naga people are proud of the party’s achievements and contributions, assured to play a greater and more contributory role beyond “our” border. The party has appealed to the Naga family across all boundaries to Old Jalukie forest fire come forward and extend support, controlled love, and prayers to the party and its The DFO Peren divileadership so that “our voice can be sion and Range forest ofheard and respected.”
Fire in Kohima
A devastating fire broke out in a jungle just below the Border Road Task Force campus at Kohima on Sunday afternoon due to strong wind in Kohima town. The fire turned into inferno, which gradually spread towards the residential areas. The residents immediately called the fire brigade personnel and accordingly two fire tenders were pressed into service. After fighting for an hour along with the help of Border Road Task Force (BRTF) personnel and local people, the Fire Brigade personnel able to extinProperty razed to the ground by a fire that broke out at guished the fire. No casualty was reported. Vihokhu village on March 31. ficer Jalukie along with territorial staff inspected the fire affected area at Old Jalukie community biodiversity reserve and assessed the fire damage, which broke out on March 29. A press note informed that the DFO Peren and range officer convened an emergency meeting at Old Jalukie including
hunt for Vekhota’s arrest before and after the public protest rally was held. However, Vekhota escaped on March 13, 2014 night and committed suicide by shooting himself with his own arm. “So, no action could be taken against him and on our part the matter was closed,” the NSCN (K) chairman said in a press release. In light of this, the Region authorities have demanded from the Chesezumi Village Council to justify the confusions and appealed not to tarnish the “good images” of the group in days to come. Further, he informed that Vekhota, a GPRN/NSCN on March 9, 2014 surrendered to NSCN (K) with his relatives not to join any functionaries. An agreement was signed between the relatives and Region authorities. NSCN (K) Chakhesang Region added, “The public and our Government had totally condemned his (Vekhota’s) in- An upturned vehicle is seen below the National Highway at Kezieke colony, Kohima humanly involvement which caused him on March 31. Reports indicate that the vehicle met with an accident at around 3:00 am, March 31. (Photo by Loreni Tsanglao) to commit suicide.”
MEx FILE NFHRCC meeting on April 1 Dimapur, march 31 (mExN): There will be an emergency meeting of Nagaland Foot Hill Road Coordination Committee (NFHRCC) to discuss pertinent issues concerning the ongoing construction of Nagaland Foot Hill Road on April 1, 4:30 pm at the treasurer’s house at Khermahal here. Therefore, NFHRCC convenor Supu Jamir and assistant general secretary Dr. PS Lorin have requested all the Committee members to attend the meeting without fail.
NCRC Sumi women leaders informed Dimapur, march 31 (mExN): Three days fasting and prayer programme for NCRC Sumi women leaders has been preponed to April 4 to 6 due to the forthcoming Lok Sabha Election. Therefore, all the office bearers, executive members and women pastors have been requested to reach Ayinato, Prayer & Healing Center on April 3 at 2:00 pm. This was informed in a press release issued by Kahuli Piketo Achumi, chairperson, Women Department, NCRC Sumi.
DC Kohima informs kohima, march 31 (Dipr): All the political parties have been directed to strictly comply with the notification issued and remove the flags, banners, hoardings, posters, writing slogans etc if any from the public places with immediate effect to avoid necessary legal action as per election law.
KBUD fellowship cum meet Dimapur, march 31 (mExN): All members of Kangching Buhu Union Dimapur (KBUD) are informed that the fellowship cum meeting would be held on April 6 at 1:30 Noon at the residence of T. Longshak, DGM (NST), Tata Parking Dimapur. All members of Kangching residing in and around Dimapur including women and children have been requested to attend the fellowship cum meeting positively. This was informed in a press release issued by KBUD Secretary B. Manpa Phom.
EVM randomization held in Dimapur Dimapur, march 31 (mExN): The District Election Office/ARO Dimapur successfully conducted the second and final phase of Electronic Voting Machine (EVM) randomization on March31 at DC Office for the ensuing Lok Sabha Election. Deputy Commissioner N Hushili Sema in a press release informed that there are 280 polling stations distributed in all the five assembly constituencies in Dimapur district. The final EVM randomization was conducted by NIC Dimapur represented by Sanjay Pandey, Addl. DIO, NIC, Dimapur and the EVM randomization bottom was clicked by DEO/DC Dimapur N. Hushili Sema, IAS. The program was attended by Nodal Officer, EVM & SDO (Civil) Dimapur Temjensungla. The program was also attended by representative from different political parties of Nagaland.
KSCSUJ supports plea to re-examine NU & NBSE marking system
kohima, march 31 (mExN): Kohima Science College Students Union, Jotsoma (KSCSUJ) has expressed support to All Nagaland College Students’ Union’s (ANCSU) plea to re-examine the marking system of Nagaland University (NU) and Nagaland Board of School Education (NBSE). The release appended by KSCSUJ general secretary, P Manjah stated, “When we compare our marking or grading system with mainland universities and colleges we find it sparing.” As such, “we find it very difficult to get selected in reputed institutions and colleges although we
hold a Gold Medal in our respective colleges and the lone University because of low percentage in our marks.” Sometimes, students’ performance maybe poor, but not every year, the release stated, adding students should not be victimised because of this sparing marking in the evaluation system of NU and NBSE. Meanwhile, the KSCSU appealed to NU to declare the degree result as per the university norms and also take necessary arrangement in making the result so that “blunders in the mark sheets are not repeated.”
Siddhartha Professional Academy celebrates 3 years
Dimapur, march 31 (mExN): Siddhartha Professional Academy, Dimapur celebrated its 3rd anniversary on March 31. Tali Longchar, Deputy Director of Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprise (MSME), Govt. of India, graced the occasion as chief guest. Meanwhile, Cleber Sangma from AWANA Missionary was the guest of honour, and Senti of KVIC and Prasant Sharma of Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, Siliguri were the special guests. In a press release, Nimi Ao, Academic Director, Siddhartha Professional Academy, Dimapur informed that the programme started with invocation and dedication of the launch of Phonetics’ Books by David Sema. Then, the special guest officially announced the partnership of The
5
Major fire breaks out at Vihokhu village
NSCN (K) Chakhesang Region clarifies
phEk, march 31 (mExN): In response to a press statement regarding Chesezumi Village condemning March 12 Phek incident which appeared in local dailies, chairman, NSCN (K) Chakhesang Region has clarified that a clear stand was given on March 13, 2014 by Kilonser Thupuvezo during the public protest rally held at Phek Town against Vekhota for his “dastardly act” of an alleged life attempt on Veseto Ringa, NST bus conductor in Phek Town on March 12, 2014 without reason. The chairman, Zacupoyi Nyekha stated that “the Region authorities did not recruit Vekhota as our cadre nor have any intention to re-recruit him because of his bad habitual defection natures till the incident took place.” Further, after Veseto Ringa was shot at, the group “alarmingly” checked for its cadres’ involvement, but found no faults and “the sheer involvement came into a clear picture to Vekhota”. Thereafter, NSCN (K) Chakhesang Region and police started
Dimapur
JFMC members and the village council, where it was found that about 4 ha of forest area were affected. It was informed that there was not much damage done to trees and that the fire was doused and controlled by the villagers, involving the JFMC and youth, on the night of the incident.
During the meeting, it was resolved that the forest department with the cooperation of the village JFMC would jointly search for the offender. Further, the Forest department appealed to the public of the area not to indulge in intentional forest fires both inside and outside the conservation area in future.
FMD and black quarter disease reported in Jalukie
JalukiE, march 31 (Dipr): SDO (C) Jalukie, Rhosietho Nguori has informed that a written report has been received about an outbreak of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), including suspected Black Quarter (BQ) in Jalukie valley. A large number of animals, particularly cattle and buffalo, have been affected leading to deaths of animals. The doctors and staff of the department concerned, i.e. Veterinary and Animal Husbandry, are making efforts to take stock of the situation and contain the disease. The general public has been informed to take notice of the prevailing outbreak of animal disease and take all necessary/precautionary measures so as to prevent further widespread of the disease. They have also been cautioned to avoid consumption of meats till such time the situation is brought under control. In this regard, the administration has issued orders to all butchers in Jalukie town not to sell meat of unhealthy animals to the public. Those butcher(s) found acting contrary to the order shall invite punitive action as per the provisions of law.
Excise Mon seizes locally made opium
Dimapur, march 31 (mExN): Excise duty party of Mon on March 29 recovered an abandoned bag containing 765 grams of locally prepared opium, while conducting a “surprise checking” on all incoming and outgoing vehicles between Longwa and Mon. The contraband is believed to be brought from Myanmar side, stated a press release issued by Superintendent of Excise, Mon, Jongpong Sangtam. The note said no one claimed the bag, so, the Excise has kept the content as unclaimed at Excise Malkhana. The raid was headed by H Phuton, IE Mon with AIE Yuhan, Constable Manai, Constable Akho, Constable Yongmeth, Constable Chingnyak, and driver Chorisie.
DogmaSoft Ltd. and the Academy. At the event, director of the academy, Rajesh Choudhury, said it was a tough period to bring the institution to the present level in a short period. Today, the institute is registered and recognised with MSME, Ministry of Labour & Employment and even ISO 9001:2008 from Joint Accreditation System of Australia and New Zealand (JAS-ANZ).
Kohima to launch SVEEP audio visual van
kohima, march 31 (Dipr): The Kohima district Core Committee for Systematic Voter Education and Electoral Participation (SVEEP) in collaboration with the Department of Information and Public Relations will be launching the SVEEP Audio Visual Mobile Publicity Unit to disseminate SVEEP messages on ethical, informed and
Excise personnel of Mon with seized items.
inducement-free voting in all the administrative headquarters under Kohima district with effect from April 2, 2014. The Audio Visual Mobile Publicity van will visit Tseminyu, Chiephobozou, Botsa, Kezocha, Jakhama and Sechu Zubza a week ahead of the parliamentary election to enhance electoral participation from the people, especially those residing in the rural areas. The van will be flagged off from the Deputy Commissioner office, Kohima at 9:30 AM on April 2 by ADC Kohima, Asangla Imti. The team will first visit Tseminyu sub-division where a short programme will be held apart from distribution of SVEEP pamphlets in Rengma dialect and display of various materials related to SVEEP campaign. ADC Tseminyu, Vikhweno will give a short talk on the importance of the SVEEP campaign while Asst Public Relations Officer, DIPR, Ketaromakbo Zeliang will chair the function.
Chekhuneyi Vero new PFC president phEk, march 31 (mExN): Phek Farmers’ Club (PFC) has appointed Chekhuneyi Vero of Phek Village as the president with immediate effect for the larger interest of the farmers in the district. According to a press statement issued by PFC Chief Co-ordinator, Thuputhiyi Venuh, newly elected President Chekhuneyi Vero is empowered to appoint other executive officials for the tenure 2014-2020. Urging upon the active farmers of the district to co-operate with the newly elected President, Venuh further asked the farmers to deal with the Agri & Allied department under Vero’s leadership.
Promoting bee keeping among farming community Dimapur, march 31 (mExN): Central Institute of Horticulture (CIH) and National Bee Board (NBB), DAC, Govt. of India, New Delhi jointly organized farmers’ training on ‘Bee keeping for enhancing horticulture crop production’ at Ruzaphema village, Dimapur from March 28-29. The training was held to promote bee keeping among the farming community as bees play a major role in enhancing horticulture crop production through pollination and also bee keeping is a profitable enterprise for farmers to earn additional income. A press release informed Dr. Lallan Ram, Director, CIH, Medziphema addressing during the that the training was inaugutraining held on bee keeping in Ruzaphema village, Dimapur. rated by Dr. Lallan Ram, Di-
rector, CIH, Medziphema. He exhorted the participants to apply new technologies learnt from the training to improve their production and economy through honey bees. The resource persons Dr. A. K. Singh, Asst. Scientist, AICRP (Honey bees & pollinators) SASRD: NU, Nzanbemo K Lotha, Team Member, NBHM, Dimapur i/c and Thungben Yanthan, Team Member, NBHM, Wokha i/c imparted training on various aspects of bee keeping like, ‘Scope & Importance of Honey bees and its colony management’, ‘Importance & impact of insect pollinators on Vegetable crops’, ‘Pest of honey bees & their management’, ‘De-
sertation- causes & preventive measure’, ‘Apiary site selection and hands on demonstration on handling of scientific tools & equipments transferring of bee colony from traditional to scientific hives, handling and up care of scientific hives’. Multi utility centre, NBHM, located at 5th Mile, Dimapur was also visited as a part of the training. Certificates were distributed by Dr. Lallan Ram to all the participants. The training is being conducted in three batches for the farmers under vegetable cluster of Dimapur district. The next two batches will be organized during the month of April 2014. Altogether 21 participants attended the training.
6
IN-FOCUS
The Power of Truth
The Morung Express TuEsDAy 1 APrIl 2014 volumE IX IssuE 88
Status Quo or Transformation
I
t is the world of ideas that transforms the world and it acts as the bridge between historical forces on one hand and the uncertain unfolding future on the other. A society; any society that does not nurture, nourish and develop ideas invariably finds itself caught in the history of the past, which breeds stagnation fueled by homogeneity and permanence. Consequently, monotony becomes a status quo of injustice. Ideas and its capacity for imagination is the strength of a peoples’ to exercise the value of its own future. The world of ideas is a scene of endless confrontation that is split between those who use power to maintain the status quo and those who aspire and struggle for change. The question of ideas is at the center of these confrontations and it is through these encounters that the distinct position, functions and roles between reactionary intellectuals and activists becomes more apparent in their conflicting encounter for either maintaining the status quo or enabling transformation. While activist tend to over-criticize immobility, permanence, homogeneity and hegemony; the reactionary intellectuals on the other tend to forgo critical thought. Subsequently reactionary intellectuals shrink their ideas into concrete sound bytes, excluding both the past and future, only to focus on the immediate present and are constantly criticizing any and every effort towards change. Activists on the other hand claim to be engaging in self-criticism with critical imagination since their ideas are not confined to the immediate present, but the future. Subsequently, they come across as having no feelings for present plight. Invariably, the outcome between the clashes of these ideas is what defines the existential reality. It is ideas that are going to shape the future of the Nagas. At present, public focus is compulsively centered on actions and activities of the past and immediate. But such fixation will only lead inward and prevent any self-criticism and critical imagination. There is a dire need for Nagas to open up to criticism across all levels of society and to be able to accept criticisms and differences without any personal indignation. Far more important will be the ability of the Naga spirit to shift from a perpetual habit of self-righteousness to self-criticism. Self-criticism is after all the manure for critical imagination. Invariably, Nagas must take care not to forget that ideas are the means through which a peoples’ define their journey of purpose!
lEfT wiNg |
Temjen Ao
Assam and Nagaland
L
ately there has been another dispute with the people of Assam over the border issue. It is not the first nor will it be the last. Since the State of Nagaland was created this has remained a perennial problem and will remain so until a lasting solution to the Naga political issue is arrived at for the benefit of all concern. So my question is what should the Nagas do until this vexed question is settled to everyone’s satisfaction. As of today we the Nagas are de-facto a part of India until decided otherwise. So we have to live by its constitution and so we cannot from time to time go on raids across the ill-defined boundaries of Assam and Nagaland to create law and order problems. This state of affairs hurts everyone either physically or emotionally. I in my naïve world view have a view suggestions that I feel can at the very least alleviate some of the problems faced by our State. One or two steps has already been taken up in this direction and kudos to the people of Nagaland for taking the initiative. Hopefully these steps don’t get bogged down in bureaucratic and political incompetence. As has already been proposed the idea of a foothill road from Peren to Naginimora and beyond is a very good step in terms of more movements of goods between regions of the State. But the question is will the State Government really take up this issue in a war footing, after all decades have passed since this proposal was first mooted. When or if this link road is complete towns or regions along this highways could be promoted as hubs for economic and educational activities and the financing should be given priority to this areas. With a great amount of the budget going for infrastructure development of these areas. Some regions that come to my mind without any indebt study on my part are Beisumpuikam, Dimapur, Rengmapani, Merapani, Naganijan (Saring), Tuli, Naginimora, Tizit etc. If these towns could be developed into hubs of processing and distribution of goods sourced from the hinterlands surrounding them I am sure the border areas will develop in leap and bounds. And this will de-facto protect our borders from any illegal intrusion. Any laborers or skilled workers from out of State can be given work permits which could be made efficiently available. This will not only protect the borders but preserve the environment of our hinderland and give the common man of Nagaland a viable alternative to farming. Even farmers would benefit because they would have a ready and available market to earn profits from. Taxes in these Special Economic Zones should have minimal taxes and all the facilities available for a thriving industries. The example of Meghalaya taking away industries of Assam by providing a more conducive atmosphere for commerce serve as an example. Law and order of the political kind should be totally left to the armed forces of India and the central Government. And if they show any hesitancy the State Government should hold them accountable in the highest court of land. If even this is not possible they should be told to leave the Nagas areas so that we may settle the problems ourselves. Coming back to the border areas the issue that is always at the crux of the problem is the way Assam pushes Illegal Bangladeshi on to our lands. So the State Government with all sincerity and in concert with all the States in the region should find out means to stop this menace before it engulf our region. On our part we must strengthened our police forces and deploy them in larger numbers at the borders while leaving the ordinary law and order problems within Nagaland to the District Enforcement Force. Lastly, there is no perfect solution to this mess and in order to live with this problem hanging over our heads with the best of our abilities we must always maintain cordial and fraternal ties with people living in these areas. KUKNALIM
THE EDIT PAGE
C O M M E N T A R Y
Ashley South
The MyanMar ConTexT
G
ood demographic data is hard to come by in Myanmar. While the census scheduled for April 2014 may help in this respect, it is also likely to reinforce arbitrary and unhelpful categorisations of ethnic identity in the country. Such caveats notwithstanding, non-Burman communities make up at least 30% of the population. Burman and minority elites having failed to successfully negotiate a pacted transition to independence in 1948, the following decades were marked by armed conflict between a militarised government dominated by elites within the Burman ethnic majority, and dozens of Ethnic Armed Groups (EAGs) seeking to represent the grievances and aspirations of marginalised minority communities. In the decades which followed, EAGs became increasingly associated with economic agendas - but in most cases they also enjoy significant (if often contested) legitimacy among their own communities. Armed conflict in Myanmar has been marked by serious and widespread human rights abuses on the part of both the Tatmadaw and - less systematically EAGs. In late 2012 there were an estimated 650,000 IDPs in Myanmar, and 415,000 refugees originating from the country. In addition, millions of migrants have also left the country, often fleeing similar conditions to those faced by documented refugees and IDPs. The election of a semi-civilian government in November 2010 represented a break with the past, despite the continued role of the military in government and politics. Since late 2011, the new government under President (and ex-General) U Thein Sein has agreed or re-confirmed preliminary ceasefires with 10 major armed groups. Despite such positive developments however, in June 2011 the Myanmar Army launched a major offensive against the Kachin Independence Organisation (KIO) in northern Myanmar, breaking a 17year ceasefire. As a result, at least 80,000 people were displaced along the border with China, with tens of thousands of more IDPs in the conflict zones and government-controlled areas. This resurgence of armed conflict included some of the most significant battles of Myanmar’s 50-plus year civil war. Although the government and KIO agreed a preliminary ceasefire in March 2013, the subsequent 12 months were characterised by continued clashes, in both Kachin and neighbouring Shan States, including direct Myanmar Army attacks on civilians. Notwithstanding such disruptions and caveats, for the first time since independence, government forces and most EAGs have stopped fighting. This is an historic achievement in peace-making. However, the ceasefire process has yet to be transformed into a substantial and sustainable phase of peace-building. In areas where ceasefires have held (e.g. most of southeast Myanmar), these have resulted in significant improvements in the lives of conflict-affected communities. Many villagers say they can now travel more freely, and livelihoods are beginning to improve in some areas, with villagers having better access to their fields and decreases in predatory taxation by Myanmar authorities. However, the government and EAGs have so far failed to agree monitoring and other measures which would secure and consolidate the ceasefires. In addition to the need to consolidate the ceasefires, the peace process in Myanmar is unlikely to be sustainable without the start of political dialogue between the government and ethnic stakeholders. Serious doubts remain whether the government and Myanmar Army will be willing to accept ethnic demands such as federalism, either in principle or in
F
or the victims and their families in Sri Lanka, the resolution passed by the United Nations Human Rights Council this week in Geneva offers the first glimmer of hope for truth, justice and reparation for the serious human-rights abuses committed by both sides in the final stages of the civil war. It comes almost five years after the end of Sri Lanka’s protracted and bloody civil war—a conflict that saw the death of tens of thousands of civilians and the ‘disappearance’ of thousands more. And it comes because no one has been held accountable for any of the gross human-rights abuses and serious violations of international humanitarian law committed by both sides to the conflict. Crisis of impunity The final phase of the war was a bloodbath. As the brutal, secessionist Tamil Tigers were pushed back into a rapidly shrinking pocket of territory in the north-east, they forced more than a quarter of a million civilians to move with them and essentially serve as forced labourers and human shields. Ignoring the human misery, Sri Lankan troops launched indiscriminate attacks. More than 20,000, and maybe up to 40,000, civilians were killed in the last months of fighting and even more injured. Hoping to silence the ensuing domestic and international outcry, the Sri Lankan government established a Lessons Learned Reconciliation Commission (LLRC). The commission was not designed to bring accountability and its mandate, membership and conduct were all faulted. But the LLRC did conclude that the state was obliged to investigate more fully the circumstances under which violations of humanrights law and the laws of war could have occurred and where such investigations uncovered wrongful conduct to prosecute the wrongdoers. It warned that a transparent legal process and
For the first time since independence, government forces and most Ethnic Armed Groups have stopped fighting. This is an historic achievement in peacemaking. However, the ceasefire process has yet to be transformed into a substantial and sustainable phase of peace-building practice. There is an urgent need to agree to a framework for talks. In addition to EAGs, ethnic political parties and civil society actors must also be involved - as must conflict-affected communities, including refugees and IDPs. Community-based organisations in Myanmar have developed extensive networks, often providing life-saving assistance to conflict-affected communities. This is particularly the case in the Thailand-Myanmar borderlands, areas where EAGs and associated civil society actors have long received international support, provided under the ‘umbrella’ of the refugee camps in Thailand. ‘Inside’ the country, in government-controlled areas, there has been a revival of civil society networks over the past decade, including within and between ethnic nationality communities. The convergence of these different civil society actors, and the integration of non-state and government service delivery systems and governance regimes, is one of the most significant challenges in the peace process. Towards durable solutions? Of particular concern are the future of health and education service delivery systems implemented by – or in close association with – EAGs, and more the status of non-state ethnic administrations in conflict-affected areas. These non-state structures are generally quite effective, and are often considered by local people as more legitimate than those of the militarised state. The international aid community in Myanmar should be encouraged to support these locally owned and delivered regimes, until such time as a comprehensive political settlement is agreed. Solutions to forced migration in Myanmar depend on the broader political framework - in particular the resolution of decades-long armed ethnic conflicts. As yet, IDP and refugee issues have not featured prominently in negotiations between the government and EAGs, beyond general expressions of concern. Some EAGs (e.g. the KIO, and along the Thailand border the Karen National Union and Karenni National Progressive Party) have sought to engage with displaced communities regarding the peace process, explaining their positions and eliciting input. In general however, forced migrants’ involvement with the peace process has been quite limited, particularly on the part of marginalised groups (e.g. women, and ethnic ‘minorities-within-minorities’ e.g. Muslims in refugee camps in Thailand). In some areas, international and national or local organisations have undertaken ‘pilot projects’, to test the possibility of helping IDPs either to return to previous settlements, or enhance human security in their current location. The ‘IDPs first, refugees later’ approach seems to be favoured by government, EAGs and the international community. Given their significant agency and resourcefulness, it seems
unlikely that IDPs will wait until a comprehensive peace process and framework for refugee return is in place, before adopting their own locally-appropriate (at least semi-) durable solutions. Assistance and protection to displaced people should be based on an understanding of, and support to, IDPs and refugees' often brave and ingenious self-protection and coping strategies. Conflict-affected communities in Myanmar demonstrate high levels of 'human capital'. It is important that external interventions understand and support these capacities, and do not inadvertently harm local rehabilitation and peacebuilding efforts. If durable solutions are to be sustainable (really ‘durable’), it is important that these build on local initiatives. While displaced and other conflict-affected communities have wide-ranging needs, IDPs across the country (and refugees outside it) repeatedly express the need for protection - from human rights abuses and inequitable and unsustainable livelihoods (and from premature repatriation from neighbouring countries). There is a clear role here for mandated international organisations (such as UNHCR). Previous international efforts to assist and protect displaced communities (for example, in the 1990s) were hampered by limited mandates and political will, in a context where Myanmar remained under authoritarian military rule. In the context of the current peace process, and broader government-driven reforms in Myanmar, it is essential to recognise the authority of EAGs - which enjoy significant (albeit often contested) legitimacy among ethnic nationality communities, and in many cases provide muchneeded services to conflict-affected communities. Failure to engage constructively with these key actors could undermine the broader peace process. International donors and aid agencies should ensure that their efforts to assist forced migrants and other vulnerable populations do not inadvertently cause harm, in a context where the state is perceived to be using the peace process to expand its authority into conflict-affected areas under the control or influence of EAGs. These recommendations focus on the importance of asking communities about their concerns, hopes, intentions and activities. Some (perhaps many) IDPs will prefer to stay in-situ, having found semi-durable solutions to displacement in a new location (the equivalent option for refugees being local integration). Others will want to return to a previous location - raising the question of where is ‘home’, if an individual or family has moved dozens of times over decades. People’s hopes, fears and intentions will vary, both within and between families and communities, and over time, depending on the options available and the security, political, social and economic context. Therefore, consultation should not be a one-off activity, but a continuous exercise. Consultations should seek out a broad set of stakeholders. In the past, it was difficult for outside actors to talk directly with IDPs and other conflictaffected communities inside Myanmar. Therefore, exile-based and activist groups had a special role to play, speaking on behalf of vulnerable communities inside the country. While such networks continue to be significant actors, it is increasingly possible to engage directly with conflict-affected communities. In this complex context, external actors should seek to understand locally articulated needs, and support the significant agency of forced migrants and related civil society and political groups. For many donors and aid agencies, this will require a significant shift in organisational and political culture.
Still searching for justice in Sri Lanka sheila varadan strict adherence to the rule of law were prerequisites of peace and stability. Over two years on, however, and in spite of two UN resolutions calling on Sri Lanka to implement the LLRC’s recommendations, the government has failed to investigate the alleged violations. The international community has responded clearly: the Human Rights Council resolution requests the UN high commissioner for human rights to “undertake a comprehensive investigation into alleged serious violations and abuses of human rights and related crimes by both parties during the period covered by the Lessons Learnt Reconciliation Commission and to establish the facts and circumstances of such alleged violations with a view to avoiding impunity and ensuring accountability”.
exemplified. The impeachment was declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court and widely condemned for disregarding international standards on judicial independence and fair trial by the Bar Association, judges and civilsociety groups. They were joined in this criticism by 57 senior judges from 30 countries, who signed an open letter to the government organised by the International Commission of Jurists. Peiris, who had never served as a judge, was the president’s former legal advisor and attorney-general. During his 33-month tenure as AG, he did not prosecute a single case of crimes against journalists, human-rights defenders or lawyers. And he repeatedly obstructed efforts to investigate allegations of gross humanrights violations—even going so far as to mislead the UN Committee on Torture on the fate of a missing journalist, Prageeth Eknaligoda, whom he implied was in a foreign country. Without an independent and impartial judiciary, it is simply not possible to have a credible domestic investigation that delivers truth and justice for conflict-related crimes. The UN high commissioner, Navi Pillay, reported to the Human Rights Council that the failure of national mechanisms to establish truth and justice ‘‘can no longer be explained as a function of time or technical capacity, but … is fundamentally a question of political will’’.
lawyers and journalists underscores the need for an internationally led investigation. Between 2008 and 2013, 22 journalists and media activists were killed or subjected to enforced disappearance. No one has been arrested in connection with any of these crimes. Even while the Human Rights Council was in session, on March 16th Ruki Fernando of the Colombo-based INFORM and Father Praveen Mahesan, a Catholic priest, were arrested in Kilinochchi and detained for 72 hours under the Prevention of Terrorism Act. They were ordered to hand over iPads and hard drives and subjected to a travel ban and a gagging order. Three days earlier, a human-rights activist and mother of a ‘disappeared’ boy, Balendran Jeyakumari, was detained with her 13-year old daughter in their Killinochchi home. Jeyakumari is now being held without charge in the Boosa prison camp without access to a lawyer. A process that does not allow victims and witnesses to testify freely will simply not be able to establish truth and justice.
Comprehensive investigation The Human Rights Council resolution sends a strong message to the government that the international community is not willing to give up on the issue of accountability. It also gives hope to victims and civil society that the pursuit of truth, justice and accountability is not illusory. The comprehensive investigation, if undertaken in accordance with the resolution, should bring to light information about the extent and circumstances of the alleged serious abuses committed by all parties in the conflict. But the government must ensure that civilian and military authorities co-operate. Lasting peace demands justice. Because the Sri Lankan justice system is Activists attacked unwilling to deliver it, the international A campaign meanwhile of targeted community must do so. Impunity will reprisals against human-rights activists, only aggravate the wounds of war.
wRiTE-wiNg
Demise of judicial independence The lack of political will to provide accountability has also been evident in the executive’s assault on the independence of the judiciary—once a point of pride for the island nation. The 18th amendment to the constitution, passed in 2010, gave unilateral authority to the president to make all appointments to the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeal and the Judicial Services Commission. Unsurprisingly, judicial appointments have become more politicised, and interference in the impartial functioning of the judiciary commonplace—as the impeachment of the 43rd chief justice, Dr Shirani Bandaranayake, in January 2013, and her replacement by Mohan Peiris
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PERSPECTIVE
TuEsday
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
1 April 2014
A
NEWS ANALYSIS, FEATURE AND DISCOURSE
CAUT members have just concluded a consultative roundup of most of the Eastern Nagaland Districts: Mon, Longleng, Mokokchung , Tuensang, Wokha and Tseminyu. A village level experiment was also carried out at Khandinyu. The writer is not a member of ACAUT but he holds a firm conviction that the slogan of "One Government, one tax " is the only other alternative message left beyond the efforts of FNR for the masses to induce the NPGs to UNITE to find that elusive settlement with the GoI. He therefore responded to the request of ACAUT to join their effort at Mokokchung, Wokha, Khandinyu and Tseminyu to feel the pulse of the masses at the grassroots level on a one to one experience. This is a sum up of the public response to the message of 'one Government, one tax", a serious impression derived from the sessions and direct interaction with the key citizens, the GB, DBs, VC Chairmen, VC Members and concerned town/ village elders, the cream of Rural Nagaland who ultimately bear the burden of unlimited taxation of the NPGs. It included the participation of all the Frontal Organizations like the Tribal Hohos, the Women Hohos and the Student Unions during this campaign. The message that was shared with the grassroots masses was a simple honest presentation of our reality. Since the times of our forefathers, Nagas had lived as free independent people un-subjugated or un-dominated by any foreign powers...until the advent of the British in the later stages of the 19th Century-(1879-80). Even within this changed scenario of a partial domination, the British left the Nagas free to self-govern in every village as was the case before their arrival...except to discourage the ancestral head hunting practices. The Naga Club, the only possible Naga Tribal represented forum of their time, submitted their all important, well perceived and considered memorandum to the Simon Commission way back in 1929 asking the British Government not to include the Nagas within the other British Indian States and to leave the Nagas alone once they departed from the Indian Sub-Continent. One of the salient issue addressed by this memorandum was the question of taxation. The Nagas expressed their fear that foreign tax will eventually reduce the Nagas to a status of a servant in their own land in the absence of liquid assets to pay the foreign tax. The British too sensitively acknowledged the Naga sentiment with British India Act 1935 defining the Naga country as "Naga Hills Excluded Area". In the later political development, Mr. Phizo enunciated and amplified the danger of taxation and further aroused a latent philosophy of Naga Independence as a common aspiration. This was a monumental achievement by any human standards for which the Nagas owe Mr. Phizo an eternal gratitude, no matter what his critical default may have been in the later part of the Naga History. After all, he too was a mere mortal, susceptible to human error. The British betrayed the Nagas in their final departure from India, leaving the Nagas at the mercy of the superior Indian force. Nevertheless, the Nagas declared their Independence on the 14th of August 1947, on day ahead of Indian Independence. India then invaded Naga Country on an antiquated principle of 'might is right' and trampled the birthright of Nagas' freedom. The 1951 Plebiscite endorsed, reinforced and confirmed the absolute legitimate will of the Nagas that we were born free and shall remain free people and that we have the right to defend ourselves and our land from forceful foreign usurpation. Despite the helplessly unequal war that was forced upon us, the Nagas bravely responded to this aggression with crossbows and arrows, daos and spears, muzzle loading guns and a few condemned rifles, remnant from the World War II. What the Government of India failed to understand was this simple truth...that they were facing a people with an indomitable spirit fostered and kindled through the core understanding of our moral birthright and our ancestral pride and honour as free people. Mortals as we are, the Nagas were unprepared to give up this birthright without a fight, no matter what the odds. The Nagas showed disdain, not fear, when the likes of Morarji Desai, the Prime Minister of India, threatened to wipe out the Nagas race from the face of the earth if necessary, knowing full well that India could very well obliterate the Naga people with their superior army but would never be able to subdue the inherent free spirit of the Nagas...however powerful their armies be. For the Christian Nagas it was a justified war against unjustified alien aggression and therefore "Nagaland for Christ" was an apt guiding principle to strengthen our resolve at that time...which is now being defiled on a routine basis in the present times. With every confrontation against the Indian Army, the Naga Army grew from strength to strength instead, salvaging and replenishing their arms and ammunition from the slain adversaries. It was a glorification of a united spirit within our National Workers
T
he rumour was that Wen Jiabao, the then premier of China, had been reading Adam Smith. Not, however, The Wealth of Nations, the renowned work of political economy, which might have expected to interest one of the key architects of market China. But rather Smith's lesser known The Theory of Moral Sentiments. It seemed an unusual choice for the man then in charge of the world’s largest emerging economy and its most populous nation. Why would China's prime minister find time, amid his busy routine of diplomatic meetings and and managerial committees, to study a 200-year-old study of the ethical basis of human behaviour? This is no criticism of the 18th-century Scottish thinker's book, for it is a clear and elegant exposition that still deserves a wide readership. But close attention to its main argument renders intriguing the notion that it was Wen’s favourite reading. After all, some of Smith's concepts - duty, self-discipline, benevolence - are well formed in China's own classical thinking about ethics. Yet other elements are alien to Chinese tradition. Smith writes, for example, of the "inner man" who stands as judge over all human behaviour, a sort of personification of conscience able to tell right and wrong, and who acts as an internal standard for all action. He repeats many times the idea that the in-
7 The Tour Khekiye K. sema Ias (Rtd) Forest Colony, Kohima
and the staunch undivided determination shown by the masses in their support, no matter how dear the cost! Our National workers earned true respect of not only the Naga masses but that of the GoI. Throughout this entire period of earlier aggression the Nagas had stood as a United House...with NNC/FGN in the forefront and the masses behind them in complete solidarity. It was therefore a force to be reckoned with and India finally recognized this UNITED STRENGTH OF THE NAGAS. After a couple of decades of criminal efforts of forceful domination through their Army, India realised the futility of it all and finally conceded that this problem had to be politically sorted out. Along the road India too learned harsh lessons of reality from their costly mistakes and finally gave way by converting Naga Hills Tuensang Area, a small District of Assam, into the State of Nagaland in 1963 through the 16 Points Agreement. To the National aspirant this has grudgingly been perceived as just an interim inconvenience but never a final solution and so the fight has been going on to date. Then a gigantic tsunami in the form of the "Shillong Accord of 1975" slammed into the United Naga House and obliterated its cohesion within the NNC/FGN. Mr. Phizo was the architect of this destruction by his refusal to condemn this accord. At this crucial point of our history, God seemed to have withdrawn His wisdom from the Nagas. Instead of getting rid of this obstacle through the decree of the Naga National Parliament, and force the hand of Mr. Phizo to either condemn this obnoxious accord or be impeached from his leadership position, the Nagas decided to compound our problems by launching another independent organization in the form of NSCN, thus gifting the GoI with an opportunity they were unable to create on their own...disunity within our own kitchen. The one and only strength that the Nagas ever possessed...UNITY... was forever destroyed. From this point onwards, the Nagas have been journeying down the hill. The NSCN then further fragmented into so many Factions, thus reducing the moral strength of the 1951 Plebiscite into a meaningless redundancy. No matter how much each Factions may shout from the top of the roof that they own the mandate of this Plebiscite, the fact will bear out that none of the Factions have a legitimate claim over it...least of all NNC/FGN after its failure to condemn the terms of capitulation embodied in the Shillong Accord. The Plebiscite of 1951 lies within the ruins of our disunity...and can only be salvaged and revived through the UNITY forged between the NPGs, and not before. The once proud Naga Army has now been reduced to a rag tag band of Mafia activists, intent on raising Tax for self aggrandisement in the name of sovereignty. No matter what arguments are proffered by the Factional Leaders, the simple truth and reality is that all the butchering that take place between the Factions has nothing to do with sovereignty but to do with protecting their respective revenue turfs to secure their independent comfort zones. The Factions may find solace in their belief that as long as they hold the AK 47 they will always be in command of the public will through instilment of fear...forever. Granted, that this philosophy has worked for them is evident from the silent indifference as a response from the masses thus far...but mark my words...the times they are a changing. The questions that have remained dormant for so long are slowly but surely beginning to raise its legitimate head and the uncomfortable time to respond to it all is on the horizon for the NPGs. At the top of all the questions stacked up is this one: How is the tax collected from us being utilised? The subject of accountability cannot be dodged forever. How will the NPG Leaders and thousands of their henchmen explain the fairy tale 'rags to riches' stories that abound so glaringly within their fold and seen by every living soul in Nagaland? An honest answer to this question has all the potentiality to spark a civil war within our own... where sovereignty would be forced to take a back seat! The once proud Naga Army that was held in high esteem by the populace has now become a source of irritant and a curse to our society. Does this drastic paradigm shift of the masses' perception not even tickle the conscience of those NPG leaders in command? That 'conscience' has abandoned them all is evident from the ever increasing competition between their lot in designing new irrational ways and means, like that of the syndicate system, to suck dry the public blood... indeed the Factions are beginning to resemble a per-
fect picture of Mafia Draculas fighting for their blood turf, the blood being ours of course... the evidence of their actions seems to proclaim..."Bhha! The hell with sovereignty"!... even as they freely use sovereignty as a camouflage for every paisa being extorted! And to think that our Naga National movement began on a 'no tax' sentiment. Gentlemen, the 'fear blindfold' will eventually be replaced by 'visible reasoning' but before this time is forced upon them the NPG Leaders must cast aside their petty pride, ego and differences and determinedly forge a united vision of a United National Movement and a United Naga National Government. Once this is achieved the Nagas tend to have a short memory...they are likely to forgive and forget about the ill gotten wealth so far generated by the NPGs and together, fight for the promised land without further acrimony within ourselves. While everything written here has only partially been shared with the masses, it is apparent that the overwhelming majority feels that the Nagas have lost our way and are in desperate need to find a united path. It was made clear to them that a District/ a Tribe may be in support of one faction or the other only but that does not qualify the slogan of "One Government, one tax". This sectoral support is in fact the reason for perpetuating the survival of each Factions, and at the end of the day, we are the ones responsible for encouraging Factionalism to thrive as they are. However difficult and trying this proposition may turn out to be therefore, the answer lies in all Districts, all Tribes withdrawing financial support to any faction without exception and insist on a United National Government for which the masses would be prepared to pay tax... then and only then. The Factions have been quick to brand everyone and anyone at a drop of a hat as Anti-National when rational voice is raised. Well, this is the only true and pure expression of Nationalism as can ever be defined...minus ego, minus self perpetuation and self indulgence. The Nation building priority must precede all else in one solid voice by the National Workers and the masses as was the case in the good old days. The final analysis of the Tour of ACAUT has registered a reverberating affirmation across the board that "One Government, one tax" is a rational solution towards uniting our Factions... and each Districts and Sub Division thus far visited, have endorsed this slogan full heartedly in principle, assuring ACAUT that all efforts and support will be officially declared after their respective Districts and Tribes are given time to have this issue further shared within their constituents. Each sector has shown tremendous enthusiasm to achieve this end...UNITY. Meanwhile, it was most heartening to read news on Saturday, March 29, 2014 while still on tour, that the "Lenten Agreement, March 2014" has been signed by all the top leaders of the NPGs for the formation of Naga National Government. The best Naga breakfast news read thus far this year!... but is this just another momentary flash in the pan? One has not forgotten the fact that the "Naga Concordant" was also signed on the 26th August 2011 for the same stated purpose...without a sincere follow up initiative. Faction brothers have died since and are still dying after signing of such a document. One can only fervently hope that this is not just another recurring Hornbill Festival. The grand front page portrait of all the NPG Leaders in the Morung Express was an impressive one. However, it provoked some wandering thoughts as well: Never in the history of the Nagas has so many Presidents and Prime Ministers sat together...each uncompromisingly defining their respective brand of sovereignty for the Nagas; Never in the history of the Nagas has so many Presidents and Prime Ministers sat together...each jealously guarding their secrets and causing all kinds of confusion with their respective brand of Naga National objectives for their people... while we, the beneficiaries, haven't got the slightest notion as to how our future is being bartered away for the past 67 years without even a question being raised for fear of an untimely death; That a handful of people in this picture holds the arbitrarily authority to terminate a life of a Naga at their whims and fancies in the pursuit of raising their National taxes, to build their National Houses and buy their National Foreign SUVs and send their children to affluent National Educational Institutions at the cost of a struggling National public...all in pursuit of our National sovereignty that we know nothing about; And yet, having said that, if this magnificent portrait spell REAL UNITY, the people would full heartedly congratulate them all and hope that something positive will emerge from it. The NPGs needs only be reminded that this portrait would be worthy to occupy a place of honour in the National Gallery in the future and worshipped as heroes of the Naga National Movement or conversely be looked at with contempt as a gathering of National Vultures. The choice lies in their hands. The people wish them and the FNR all the very best. May the Almighty bless and guide each one of them as we all endeavour towards a better productive future.
China, between Self and Society Kerry Brown their own behaviour, and that ethical action is based on a simple rule: acting correctly to others serves one’s own self-interest. Smith’s text is an affirmation of control - we are masters of our selves, and that provides the best way to then engage with others. Kindness creates capital, and is the route by which we forge obligations with the circles of connections in the world around us. Vice is capricious and tricky, but kindness obeys rules. When Smith does refer to the state, he talks of bonds of loyalty in ways very similar to those he uses when discussing individual humans. We are loyal first to our selves, but this requires us to be loyal to our friends, our clans, our societies, our nations, and then to the world. Peace with one creates peace with all: in this way the sovereignty of rationality is served. The foundation of global peace is peace in our homes. For the truly rational actor, self-discipline is the route to creating this harmonious world. Smith devotes many almost poetic pages to descriptions of self-mastery; he even proposes that under savage torture and provocation the individual needs to cultivate indifference and practise
The social glue When a senior leader of a populous, dynamic country like modern China reads a book by an 18th-century rationalist, political questions are inevitably raised. What is the purpose, what is being sought, what problem is uppermost? The rumour that top Chinese figures were reading Alexis de Tocqueville’s The Old Regime and the Revolution made more sense: an unstable society whose elites feared an explosion of popular revolt had evident traction in a China aiming for middle-income status by 2020. The Theory of Moral Sentiments, by contrast, is more abstract and concerned to articulate first principles. Its appeal to the Communist Party of China (CPC) is harder to fathom. It does make sense, however, in light of a central challenge the CPC faces in the 21st century. In its thinking, the party is largely bereft of a system of ethics. It appeals to self-interest, but once it moves to the larger issues of what society (or for that matter humanity) might finally want, the trail goes dead. Xi Jinping’s rhetoric of the "China dream" dips a toe into this territory, as did the edicts of establishment thinker Zheng Bijian and his lofty language of a "Chi-
the end circumscribed by being linked to cultural definitions of the good or desirable. They don’t really answer the more fundamental issue of vision. The party’s problem here is to a degree self-inflicted, in that it has eschewed "western universalism". Some public intellectuals, such as Wang Hui and Pan Wei, have produced coruscating attacks on the west's hubris and its proclivity to define everything in terms of all-encompassing rules and abstractions. These tend to ignore contrary strands in modern western tradition, such as the rich anti-rule-based thinking of the later Wittgenstein and his critique of holistic explanations. If Wen Jiabao did indeed read Adam Smith, the message must be that the CPC is searching for some sort of ethical basis as part of its modernity project. It "gets" notions of self-interest perfectly well; but how can it move from this to envisioning a proper standard of social behaviour? At the same time, a party that took Smith too much to heart would be creating another big trap for itself. The fundamental predicate of his ethical discussion is of a benevolent, all knowing, rational God, who had (in Smith's words), created the world to be perfect, and whose project all humans were part of. For the Communist Party of China to accept this would be a sign that the Marxist utopia is in sight. Nei-
“Arena of Mind” portrays a space for idea germination, a field where ideas from multi-disciplinary viewpoints fertilize the world of intelligence. The writers aspire to envision a new future by exploring the mind, discovering new seeds of insights and unleashing them to enlightenment.
The Paradox of Modern Technological Development Lilly Humtsoe Dept. of political science, St. Joseph’s College.
M
odern development is generally identified with‘ progress,’ growth’ or change.Development is thought to be the living spirit behind every success in the field of industry, transportcommunication, science and technology, agriculture, space, health, culture, entertainment, etc. It has a mesmerising effect upon the modern minds. Development is accepted by everybody as the secular and rational way of conducting the affairs of the state in the general good, irrespective of the differences of gender, class, colour, castes and creed. Development is thought to be the only way out from all the ills that have accumulated over centuries. The then American President, Harry S. Truman gave new meanings to development at the end of the Second World War in 1945 and since then, it was formally accepted as the goal of state policy incorporated the same as the basis of philosophy and ideology of the state. This also coincided with the formal inauguration of the so-called ‘Development Decades’, formation of ‘Development Communities’, launching of ‘Development Projects’ world over. From then onwards, development was used as a potent weapon for progress. Consequently lack of development is interpreted as serious handicap and disability. When it comes to development, technology is always linked to it. By the beginning of the twentieth century, the notion of progress was closely linked with technological development. No doubt, Modern Technology has revolutionized our lifestyle and made our life easier. Today, we are more satisfied, confident and also enjoy greater freedom than our ancestors. Modern human has succeeded in mastering both time and space with every incremental doses of new technology. Technology has transformed our being. It is difficult to imagine our life without the use of modern technology in our day to day life. With the dawn of modern era, technologies have endowed humans with the modern humans with all the possible comforts and possibilities. Without it we are handicap. Technology makes it possible for a more innovated society and broad social change. Cell phones, for example, have changed lives of millions throughout the world. Technology is a wonderful tool that is supposed to help human improve their quality of life but unfortunately, everything was not nice and fair with modern technological development. The paradox of development of modern technology is that, it is not always accompanied with ‘progresses’ or ‘growth’ because it does not develop the whole society. There is no doubt that science and technology have made remarkable contributions to raise the standard of living and to improve the quality of life, but it has also increased the gap between the rich and the poor. While on the one hand, tremendous progress in the medieval science, immunology and drugs had alleviated the human sufferings and has increased the span of life; on the other hand it has increased the destructive power of man in the form of weapons of mass destruction and excessive use of drugs. The paradox of Technology is that, it becomes a means of domination, control and exploitation which can be threatening at times. The more advance technology becomes, the more it seems to have control over our lives. The paradox of the mass communication technology is that we are growing more distant from our friends when we choose to make mobiles, smartphones, computers, televisions and the like, our primary means of communication with each other. We value and depend on objects more than our fellow human beings. Excessive use of these prevents us to form a meaningful relationship with each other. Modern military technology brought total war to its fullest realization. In the 17th Century, it took thirty years for the state of Central Western European to slaughter half the population of the central Europe. In the second decade of the 20th Century, it took only four years for them to bleed one another into a state of exhaustion and for some, collapse. But the atomic bomb, and especially the hydrogen bomb, made it possible to inflict catastrophic damage in minutes, or at the most hours, that previously had taken years, and their damage was tantamount to near annihilation of human race and environmental degradation. Today, every country, especially developed countries is equipped with the most latest and sophisticated weapons. A country is qualified to be called a developed country, if it possesses all the latest technologies. The so called developed countries are engaged in nuclear armament race. The strongest and the deadliest equipment a country possess, the more powerful and famous they become, but the paradox is that those weapons are meant for destruction. British historian Hobsbawn calls the 20th century, the age of extremes. A century of unprecedented progress and unprecedented destruction and killing. In the process of development,Technology has affected society and its surroundings in a number of ways. Many technological processes produce unwanted by-products, known as pollution, and deplete natural resources, to the detriment of Earth's environment. Various implementations of technology influence the values of a society and new technology often raises new ethical questions. Examples include the rise of the notion of efficiency in terms of human productivity, a term originally applied only to machines, and the challenge of traditional norms The modern age is considered to be the age of ‘enlightenment’ and ‘progress’. Human beings are considered to be guided by reason and rationality, but the paradox is that we find the worst forms of genocide today than before the dawn of modern era. Through the implementation of scientific and modern technologies and development of various modern sophisticated weapons, things gets done easily, but we also should not forget that even killing of human becomes easier. The purpose of modern Technology is to make life easier and solve our problems but the paradox is that we misuse it and we become too dependent and get addicted to it. The worst thing is that are we enslaved by it.
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Dimapur
NATIONAL
Tuesday 1 April 2014
The Morung Express
SC commutes Bhullar’s death sentence
New Delhi, March 31 (iaNS): The Supreme Court Monday commuted the death sentence of 1993 Delhi terror convict Devender Pal Singh Bhullar to life imprisonment on the grounds of delay in deciding his mercy petition and that he suffered from a mental illness. The Supreme Court by its Jan 21, 2014, verdict had held that inordinate, unexplained and unreasonable delay in deciding the mercy petition and insanity/mental illness/schizophrenia were the circumstances for commutation of death sentence to life imprisonment. Referring to its Jan 21 judgment, the apex court bench of Chief Justice P. Sathasivam, Justice R.M. Lodha, Justice H.L. Dattu and Justice Sudhansu Jyoti Mukhopadhaya said: “We deem it fit to commute the death sentence imposed on Bhullar into life imprisonment both on the ground of unexplained/ inordinate delay of eight years in disposal of mercy petition and on the ground of insanity.” The court also referred to Feb 8 report of the Delhi-based Institute of Human Behaviour and Allied Sciences (IHBAS) and said, “The report clearly shows that he is suffering from acute mental illness.” Bhuller was examined by a team of expert doctors Feb 5. Attorney General G.E. Vahanvati earlier said that in view of Jan 21 verdict, the court’s earlier judgment
Bhullar decision reopens Kashmir’s wounds
In this Friday, April 19, 2013 photo, Indian Sikhs protest against a verdict of the Supreme Court dismissing the plea for commutation of death sentence to life imprisonment for death row convict Devinderpal Singh Bhullar, in New Delhi, India. India’s top court has commuted the death sentence of the Sikh separatist convicted for a 1993 blast in the Indian capital to life in prison Monday. Bhullar was convicted of triggering a bomb blast in New Delhi in 1993 that killed nine people. Posters pasted on clothes of protesters read: “Stop the hanging of Devinderpal Singh Bhullar.” (AP File Photo)
of April 12, 2013, by which Bhullar’s plea was rejected, no longer holds ground. “We appreciate the rationale stand taken by learned attorney general and accept the same,” the court said. By its April 12, 2013 judgment, the court while rejecting Bhullar’s plea held that the delay in the rejection of a mercy petition of a death row convict by the president was not open to judicial review if the conviction was for a terror crime that involved the
Sonia, Rahul Gandhi should be stripped, sent back to Italy: BJP MLA
Jaipur, March 31 (ageNcieS): In an abusive comment, a BJP MLA has threatened to strip Congress president Sonia Gandhi and vice president Rahul Gandhi, and send them back to Italy if his party comes to power. Addressing a rally in Rajasthan’s Tonk constituency, Heeralal Regar said: “Sonia and Rahul Gandhi should be stripped off their clothes and sent back to Italy.” Taking note of Regar’s comments, the Congress party has complained to the Election Commission. However, speaking to a news channel, Regar he apologised for his remark, but added he has been misquoted. “I have not taken any name. If anyone is hurt by my comments, I apologise,” Regar said. The incident comes days after the BJP urged the Election Commission to take action against Congress’ Saharanpur nominee Imran Masood over a purported anti-Narendra Modi speech. Masood was arrested early Saturday for his hate speech against the BJP’s prime ministerial candidate. Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi, during an election rally, had condemned the language used by Masood, saying it does not reflect the Congress’ thinking. Masood was caught on camera spewing venom on Modi and threatening to “chop him into pieces”.
‘Ensure representation of minorities in civil services’
New Delhi, March 28 (iaNS): Delhi Lt. Governor Najeeb Jung Friday called upon the academic fraternity to ensure adequate representation in civil services for minorities, the Scheduled Castes, the Scheduled Tribes, and backward classes . “One of the strengths of the constitution is the principle that guarantees equality and fraternity leading to affirmative action,” Jung said after inaugurating the academic building of the Residential Coaching Academy at Jamia Millia Islamia. He lauded the efforts of the institution for promoting the cause of minorities. Jung also interacted with students who figure in the list of successful candidates for the civil services main examination of 2013. Jung, former vice chancellor of Jamia, told them about the importance of honesty, humility and truthfulness that “every individual needs to inculcate”. Vice Chancellor S.M. Sajid praised Jung, saying he was instrumental in helping build the infrastructure at Jamia. He said civil services aspirants should dedicate themselves to the creation of an egalitarian society.
loss of a large number of innocent lives. The court, while upsetting that judgment, on Jan 21, said: “...unexplained delay is one of the grounds for commutation of sentence of death into life imprisonment...The only aspect the courts have to satisfy is that the delay must be unreasonable and unexplained or inordinate at the hands of the executive.” The court also said that besides delay, insanity/mental illness/schizophrenia could also be the
grounds for seeking commuting death sentence to life imprisonment. The apex court March 12, 2014, dismissed the centre’s plea for review of its Jan 21 order, saying that there was no merit in the review plea by the Centre. Lt. Governor Najeeb Jung Jan 6, 2014, in his opinion on the mercy petition of Bhullar said: “...In many ways it would appear as if a child without a mind and in poor health is condemned to death for an incident that he com-
mitted when his mind and body were in a completely different state. On principles of human ethics, and natural justice I cannot bring myself to recommend the rejection of the mercy petition of Navneet Kaur.” The court’s verdict came on the petition by Bhullar’s wife Navneet Kaur who had moved curative petition in September 2013 challenging the rejection of her and Bhullar’s review petition April 12, 2013.
SriNagar, March 31 (ageNcieS): Reacting to the Supreme Court decision about 1993 Delhi bomb blast case convict, Davinderpal Singh Bhullar the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president, Mehbooba Mufti Monday said it is another example of doublestandards displayed vis-à-vis Kashmir and with every such development as like the latest by the Apex Court or its earlier verdict on convicts who have been on death row the wounds of Kashmiris are re-opened. Addressing various roadside meetings in Tral segment of Anantanag constituency, Mehbooba said such discriminatory approach about Kashmir needs to be responded forcefully to prevent their repetition in future and that will call for an united and strong response at political level and through democratic institutions. She said the National Conference, which should have represented the sentiments of the people of the state, unfortunately, collaborated in the hanging of Mohammad Afzal Guroo in the most inhuman manner by even denying him a last customary meeting with his family. According to CNS, Mehbooba said such an approach will perpetuate the feeling of discrimination which makes the task of reconciliation even more difficult than it has always been because of the wrong policies followed by NC and its allies. She said Guroo will keep Kashmir reminding of the miscarriage of justice in the entire process leading him up to gallows. Mehbooba said the PDP’s agenda is to prevent such things in future and the party will work to uphold the sentiments of people and protect the interests of the state, which has always been supreme for it than power and will build democratic resistance to such double-standards.
The PDP chief said her party is having a positive agenda for the Kashmir issue and the issues of Kashmir both at the state as well as national level and it will revive the reconciliation and reconstruction process it had started in 2002. Mehbooba said people of J&K have been discriminated in all respects whether it is the practices followed the democratic processes or governance with the result corruption, misgoverance and unaccountability has not been checked the way it should have been. She said if cases like Haji Yousuf, Cricket Scam, Drug Scam, PHE Scam, Land Grab scandal, recruitment frauds, molestation case involving Shabir Khan, ex-health minister would have happened in any other part of the country situation would have been altogether different and the culprits would not have been roaming free as it is happening here. “This all leads to one inference that J&K is being treated differently when it comes to the enforcement of law. Here action against anybody is brushed under carpet as if investigating cases of corruption and other malpractices will mean assault on the integrity of the country,” she said. She said if voted to parliament the PDP will strive to build a national consensus on Kashmir issue by involving various shades of public and political opinion both in and outside the parliament so that the prevailing mistrust between New Delhi and Kashmir is minimized and there is a forward movement on Kashmir resolution. She said the NC has never been serious about the state and its people and it has always played a damaging role through its repeated sell-outs, U-turns and treachery with the result there has been no headway in resolving the Kashmir issue over the last 60 years..
Complaints against Rahul, Revolt in AAP over allotment of party ticket March screened by the committee as said a source privy to the meetMamata over poll code violations JalaNDhar, 31 (TNN): Revolt has started he had not even applied for the ing. It may be mentioned here
KolKaTa, March 31 (iaNS): The West Bengal chief electoral office Monday said it has received complaints against Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee and Bengali superstar Dev for violating the model code of conduct. The complaints have been sent to the central election commission for scrutiny. “We have forwarded the reports in all three cases today (Monday) to the central EC. They will take necessary action,” an official told reporters here. The Trinamool Congress lodged a complaint with the Election Commission against the alleged presence of school students at a Congress party workers’ meeting in Alipurduar in Jalpaiguri district March 25. The opposition parties also com-
plained to the commission against Banerjee for her alleged provocative speeches against the Bharatiya Janata Party and the Communist Party of India-Marxist at a rally in Nadia district. In her speech, Banerjee had reportedly trained her guns on the opposition parties for allegedly colluding in encouraging communalism in the state. Reigning Bengali film star Dev, a Trinamool candidate from Ghatal constituency, was recently embroiled in a controversy over his comments during a newspaper interview that led to outrage from the opposition and the people. After likening the Lok Sabha poll frenzy to “being raped”, the movie star apologised for his comments. The commission said magician P.C. Sorcar Junior has replied to a show cause notice issued Sunday.
brewing up in Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) over allotment of party ticket from Jalandhar to Congress leader Rajesh Padam. A ten-member committee has been formed by the district unit of the party to take up the matter with the screening committee of the party and to oppose the nomination. As a nine member delegation of the district unit met screening committee members led by Prof Manjit Singh in the evening on Sunday, heated exchange of arguments also took place in the meeting. The angry members of the district unit questioned the screening committee members about the merits of the candidature of Padam and also questioned that when his name was
party ticket. They told the committee that what was ridiculous in this case was that Padam was still a Congress leader and had not resigned from his post of vice chairman of district SC Cell even after announcement of his candidature by the party. The activists also pointed out that Padam also had a criminal case against him. They also said that neither he was a primary member of the party not he had any great contribution to the society as was in the case of other candidates of the party. “Screening commitee members fumbled when the agitated AAP volunteers questioned them about Padam’s social or political contribution which merited him a ticket,”
that AAP leadership has tried to play caste card in Jalandhar by fielding a Valmiki candidate when other parties have fielded Adi-dharmi candidates and Valmiki activists have been expressing anguish over it. When contacted Prof Manjeet Singh said that discontentment could take place as several candidates who had applied missed the bus. Though DCC President Rajinder Beri and SC Cell Chairman Jagdish Samrai had confirmed on Saturday that Padam had not resigned till Saturday late evening Manjit Singh claimed that he had resigned from the party. When questioned that Congress leaders were confirming about his not resigning he then Padam himself should be asked.
India’s own satellite navigation system by 2014 end: ISRO chief cheNNai, March 31 (iaNS): India is expected to have its own satellite navigation system with the launch of three more satellites before the end of this year, said the Indian space agency’s chief Monday. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) chairman K.Radhakrishnan told IANS that Indian communication satellite INSAT-3E has been decommissioned couple of days ago and the users are being migrated to other satellites. “We will be receiving the signals from our navigation satellite system by the end of this year. We will be launching three more navigational satellites before the end
of this year,” Radhakrishnan said over phone from Bangalore. The ISRO will be launching the second navigational satellite badged Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System-1B (IRNSS1B) April 4 evening at 5.14 p.m. The 1,432 kg satellite will be carried by Indian rocket Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). According to Radhakrishnan, though the IRNSS is a seven satellite system, it could be made operational with four satellites. The two more navigation satellites will be launched during the second half of 2014. Prior to that, ISRO will be launching the French satellite SPOT-7 and four other foreign
satellites in a PSLV rocket and also test its heavier rocket - the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) Mark III version, said Radhakrishnan. The IRNSS-1B satellite with a design life span of 10 years will be part of the seven-satellite Indian regional navigational system. The first navigational satellite IRNSS1A was launched in July 2013. The navigational system, developed by India, is designed to provide accurate position information service to users within the country and up to 1,500 km from the nation’s boundary line. The system is similar to the global positioning system of the US, Glonass of Russia, Galileo of
Europe, China’s Beidou or the Japanese Quasi Zenith Satellite System. The system will be used for terrestrial, aerial and marine navigation, disaster management, vehicle tracking and fleet management, integration with mobile phones, mapping and geodetic data capture and others. While the ISRO is silent on the navigation system’s strategic application, it is clear that the IRNSS will be used for defence purposes as well. According to the ISRO, the IRNSS-IB has been realised within seven months of the launch of the IRNSS-1A.Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC)-SHAR director M.Y.S.Prasad told IANS:
“Even if a navigation system has more than four satellites, the final precise data is picked from four satellites.” Meanwhile Indian space agency officials are getting ready for the 58 and half hour launch countdown slated to begin April 2 around 6.45 a.m. “Normally 53 hour countdown is sufficient. But we have decided to an extended countdown so that some break time could be given for the officials,” Prasad said. On the issue of INSAT-3E satellite, Radhakrishnan said the satellite was launched in 2003 and its life span has come to an end. “Users are being migrated to other satellites,” he said.
‘Unrecognised’ poll debut by motley group
New Delhi, March 31 (iaNS): A former senior Maharashtra cop, a breakaway member of the AAP and an activist working among Sikkimese people -- these are among the 24 people who have formed new political outfits that will make their electoral debut, albeit as “unrecognised parties”, in the coming elections. The 24 political parties, with names as diverse as Hum Sabki Party, Rashtriya Vikalp Party, Apna Dal United Party, Ex-Sainik Vikas Party, Awami Vikas Party and even Free Thought Party, have been registered as Unrecognised Parties by the Election Commission for the April 7-May 12 Lok
Sabha polls. With electoral promises ranging from introducing digital currency to tackling corruption, and working for the downtrodden to increasing participation of people in law making and administration processes, these new outfits have begun campaigning among voters across the country. IANS tried to track these “new” political outfits with many not even having websites - and was able to trace three. The Awami Vikas Party was formed last year by Shamsher Wazir Khan, a former Maharashtra assistant commissioner of police. “In order to work for uplift of the downtrodden
sections of society, there is no other option but to enter the poll fray,” Khan told IANS on phone from Mumbai. The Mumbai-based party is contesting for 22 Lok Sabha seats in Maharashtra and one in Uttar Pradesh. He said that though 85 percent of the people in the country come from the Scheduled Castes and backward classes, they are always kept away from the mainstream of society. “So what if our party is new? The party’s ideology and our work among the people will help us win seats,” said Khan, adding that he formed the political outfit to work for downtrodden sections of society, espe-
cially the minority communities, to bring them into the mainstream. Like his party, there are a staggering 1,617 unrecognised outfits in the country so far waiting to get the poll panel’s nod. At the moment, there are six national parties and 47 state parties. According to a senior official of the Election Commission: “Registered unrecognised political parties are the ones who neither come under state-based, nor national parties. Therefore, they are not even eligible for a permanent party symbol during the elections.” Under the rules, these parties will be allotted symbols from a list of 87 ‘free
symbols’ only when they fulfill the criteria of contesting 10 percent of the total seats in a state or the country. Added the Election Commission official: “If they win the Lok Sabha elections, they will represent their party in the parliament. But the party will not be acknowledged as state-based or national.” They will then need to be engaged in political activities for a continuous period of five years, and bag six percent of the valid votes polled, with at least three members elected to a legislative assembly and one to the Lok Sabha to get recognition from the poll panel. Once recognised, the parties are eligible for
allotment of permanent symbols. The only Delhi-based party to be registered among the 24 new outfits is the Garib Aadmi Party (GAP/Poor Man’s Party), which has fielded 50 candidates across the country. The party was formed two months ago by Shyam Bharti, a former Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) member. Among his poll promises, Bharti has proposed replacing paper currency with digital currency to “abolish corruption” and providing ration cards and Aadhar cards to every poor individual in the country. “Formation of Garib Aadmi Party was necessary as AAP, which initially
claimed to work for poor people, has deviated from its objectives”, Bharti, who is to file his nomination from Varanasi - from where BJP prime ministerial candidate Narendra Modi is contesting - told IANS. A Hyderabad-based outfit, Mahajan Socialist Party, is focussing on “injustice” to the Dalit Christians in southern India and is targetting its campaign among them. In eastern India, the Sikkim Liberation Party (SLP) is campaigning among the “original” Sikkimese communities in the northeastern state in a bid to include them in the development process. “None of the political
parties fighting in the elections are serious about resolving the important issues relating to the development of Sikkim,” SLP president Duknath Nepal told IANS over phone from Gangtok. “Our party’s aim is to develop Sikkim, and the people of Sikkim understand this very well. So this time we are confident of a win,” said Nepal, a former social activist. In their bid to bag as many votes, these new political outfits are focussing on specific communities and raising issues that concern them during campaign time. But only time will tell whether they will even open their account in this election.
InternatIonal
the Morung express
Tuesday 1 April 2014
Dimapur
9
US, Russia offer differing solutions on Ukraine PArIS, MArcH 31 (AP): U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov are advancing far different proposals on how to calm tensions and de-escalate the crisis in Ukraine as Russia continues to mass troops along its border with the former Soviet republic. As Kerry called for Moscow to begin an immediate pullback of the troops, he also ruled out discussion of Russia’s demand for Ukraine to become a loose federation unless Ukrainians are at the table. While the United States and Russia agreed the crisis in Ukraine requires a diplomatic resolution, four hours of talks Sunday between Kerry and Lavrov failed to break a tense EastWest deadlock over how to proceed. “The Russian troop buildup is creating a climate of fear and intimidation in Ukraine,” Kerry told reporters at the home of the U.S. ambassador to France after the meeting, which was held at the Russian ambassador’s residence and included a working dinner. “It certainly does not create the climate that we need for dialogue.” The U.S. views the massing of tens of thou-
Self-defense activists perform military exercises at a military training ground outside Kiev, Ukraine, Monday, March 31, 2014. Ukrainian Acting Foreign Minister Andriy Deshchytsa has said that the new Ukrainian government is not planning to lead Ukraine into NATO. (AP Photo/
sands of Russian soldiers, ostensibly for military exercises, along the border as an attempt to intimidate Ukraine’s new leaders after Russia’s annexation of the strategic Crimean peninsula, as well as a bargaining chip with the United
States and the European Union, which have condemned Crimea’s absorption into Russia and imposed sanctions on senior Russian officials. Even if the troops remain on Russian soil and do not enter Ukraine, they
‘Nigerian uprising kills 1,500 this year’ LAGOS, MArcH 31 (AP): Increasing atrocities by extremists and uncontrolled reprisals by security forces have killed at least 1,500 people this year in northeastern Nigeria’s Islamic uprising, Amnesty International reported Monday, accusing both sides of war crimes and crimes against humanity. In a new report, the London-based advocacy group called for an international investigation. “The international community cannot continue to look the other way in the face of extrajudicial executions, attacks on civilians and other crimes under international law being committed on a mass scale,” said Netsanet Belay, the group’s advocacy director for Africa. The report said the toll of more than 1,500 deaths indicated “an alarming deterioration.” That would equal the total number of people killed since the uprising began in 2010 through June 2013, according to an Associated Press count. This year started turbulently for the military, with President Goodluck Jona-
than firing all his service chiefs and then replacing the defense minister last month, amid growing anger at the military’s inability to curb the killings. Three northeastern states covering one-sixth of the country have been under a military state of emergency since May last year. Amnesty International said more than half of those killed this year have been civilians slaughtered by extremists. They include scores of students who were gunned down in schools, had their throats slit or were burned alive in locked dormitories set aflame while they slept. Nearly all the other deaths involve soldiers gunning down unarmed detainees freed in a March 14 attack on Giwa military barracks in Maiduguri city, the report said. It said Amnesty has witnesses and satellite imagery indicating more than 600 people were killed that day. It was the bloodiest day on record in the fouryear-old uprising. Hospital workers told the AP they counted 425 corpses, which had to be buried in
a mass grave because there was no space in the mortuary. But the Amnesty report says satellite imagery indicates there are three mass graves. The report described what happened when soldiers came upon 56 unarmed detainees hiding in a classroom of the University of Maiduguri after they were freed. “We watched as the soldiers opened fire killing all 56. They were killed in front of us. All of them,” the report said, quoting an unidentified witness. In another instance, the report said vigilantes rounded up 198 freed detainees and turned them over to soldiers who, after a brief argument with the vigilantes, forced the detainees to lie down on the ground and gunned them down. Such killings follow “an entrenched pattern of deaths in custody” in northeast Nigeria, Amnesty said. Giwa army barracks holds a notorious detention center where people have been held illegally for months without being charged or allowed access to lawyers or families.
create a negative atmosphere, Kerry said. “The question is not one of right or legality,” he said. “The question is one of strategic appropriateness and whether it’s smart at this moment of time to have troops
massed on the border.” Kerry proposed a number of ideas on troop withdrawals from the border and Lavrov, while making no promises, told him he would present the proposals to the Kremlin, according to U.S. officials.
they hope to make a persuasive case. The report, congressional aides and outside experts said, examines the treatment of several highlevel terror detainees and the information they provided on bin Laden. The aides and people briefed on the report spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to speak publicly about the confidential document. The most high-profile detainee linked to the bin Laden investigation was Khalid Sheikh Mohammed, whom the CIA waterboarded 183 times. Mohammed, intelligence officials have noted, confirmed after his 2003 capture that he knew an important al-Qaida courier with the nom de guerre Abu Ahmed al-Kuwaiti. But the report concludes that such information wasn’t critical, according to the aides. Mohammed only discussed alKuwaiti months after being waterboarded, while he was under standard interrogation, they said. And Mohammed neither acknowledged al-Kuwaiti’s significance nor provided interrogators with
the courier’s real name. The debate over how investigators put the pieces together is significant because years later, the courier led U.S. intelligence to the sleepy Pakistani military town of Abbottabad. There, Navy SEALs killed bin Laden in a secret mission. The CIA also has pointed to the value of information provided by senior alQaida operative Abu Faraj al-Libi, who was captured in 2005 and held at a secret prison. U.S. officials have described how al-Libi made up a name for a trusted courier and denied knowing al-Kuwaiti. Al-Libi, they said, was so adamant and unbelievable in his denial that the CIA took it as confirmation he and Mohammed were protecting the courier. But the report concludes evidence gathered from al-Libi wasn’t significant either, the aides said. Essentially, they argued, Mohammed, al-Libi and others subjected to harsh treatment confirmed only what investigators already knew about the courier. And when they denied the courier’s significance
encouraged ongoing political and constitutional reform efforts that the government in Kiev is now working on, but U.S. officials insist that any changes to Ukraine’s governing structure must be acceptable to the Ukrainians. Kerry said the federation idea had not been discussed in any serious way during his meeting with Lavrov “because it would have been inappropriate to do so without Ukrainian input.” “It is not up to us to make any decision or agreement regarding federalization,” he said. “It is up to Ukrainians.” “We will not accept a path forward where the legitimate government of Ukraine is not at the table,” Kerry said, adding that the bottom line is, “No decisions about Ukraine without Ukraine.” Lavrov denied that Moscow wants to “split Ukraine.” “Federation does not mean, as some in Kiev fear, an attempt to split Ukraine,” he said. “To the contrary, federation ... answers the interests of all regions of Ukraine.” Lavrov said he and Kerry did agree to work with the Ukrainian government to improve rights for Rus-
sian-speaking Ukrainians and disarm “irregular forces and provocateurs.” Sunday’s meeting was hastily arranged two days after U.S. President Barack Obama and Russian President Vladimir Putin spoke by phone in a conversation in which Obama urged Putin to withdraw his troops from the border with Ukraine. Putin, who initiated the call, asserted that Ukraine’s government is allowing extremists to intimidate ethnic Russians and Russian-speaking civilians with impunity — something Ukraine insists is not happening. That call did little to reassure U.S. officials that Russia is not planning to invade Ukraine after its Crimea annexation, which drew U.S. and EU sanctions that sparked reciprocal moves from Moscow. The idea for Sunday’s meeting was for Lavrov to present Russia’s responses to a U.S. proposal that covers Ukrainian political and constitutional reforms as well as the disarmament of irregular forces, international monitors to protect minority rights and direct dialogue between Russia and Ukraine, according to U.S. officials, who say it is backed by Ukraine’s government.
‘No time limit on Malaysia jet search’
PErTH/BEIJING, MArcH 31 (rEuTErS): Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott said there was no time limit on the hunt for Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370, missing for more than three weeks in the Indian Ocean with 239 people on board. A total of 20 aircraft and ships will resume scouring a massive area in the Indian Ocean some 2,000 km (1,200 miles) west of Perth on Monday, search authorities said. “I’m certainly not putting a time limit on it,” Abbott told reporters after meeting flight crews at Pearce airbase in Perth. “The intensity of our search and the magnitude of operations is increasing, not decreasing,” he said, adding that searchers owed it to grieving families of passengers to continue the hunt. Families have strongly criticised Malaysia’s handling of the search and investigation, including the decision last week to say that, based on satellite evidence, the plane had crashed in the southern Indian Ocean. Abbott rejected suggestions his Malaysian coun-
A Royal New Zealand Air Force P-3 Orion crew has a briefing prior to departing for the search area to help find the missing Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 in Perth, Australia, Monday, March 31, 2014. (AP Photo
terpart had been too hasty to break that news, given that no confirmed wreckage from the plane has been found and its last sighting on radar was northwest of Malaysia heading towards India. “No, the accumulation of evidence is that the aircraft has been lost and it has been lost somewhere in the south of the Indian Ocean,” he said. Malaysia says the plane, which disappeared less than
No proof torture helped find bin Laden, says US WASHINGTON, MArcH 31 (AP): A hotly disputed U.S. Senate torture report concludes that waterboarding and other harsh interrogation methods provided no key evidence in the hunt for Osama bin Laden, according to congressional aides and outside experts familiar with the investigation. The CIA still disputes that conclusion. From the moment of bin Laden’s death almost three years ago in what was America’s biggest counterterrorism success, former Bush administration and some senior CIA officials have cited the evidence trail leading to the al-Qaida mastermind’s compound in Pakistan as vindicating the “enhanced interrogation techniques” they authorized after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. But Democratic and some Republican senators have disputed that account. They described simulated drownings, sleep deprivation and other such practices as cruel and ineffective. With the release edging closer for the Senate Intelligence Committee’s report on interrogations, renditions and detentions,
Lavrov did not address the troop issue at a separate news conference at the Russian ambassador’s house, instead arguing for Moscow’s idea of Ukraine as a federalized nation with its various regions enjoying major autonomy from the government in Kiev. Russia says it is particularly concerned about the treatment of ethnic Russians and Russian speakers who live in southern and eastern Ukraine. Ukraine can’t function as a “unified state” and should be a loose federation of regions that are each allowed to choose their own economic, financial, social, linguistic and religious models, Lavrov said. He said every time Ukraine has elected a new president, the country has adopted a new constitution, proving that “the model of a unified state doesn’t work.” Ukrainian officials are wary of decentralizing power, fearing that pro-Russia regions would hamper its Western aspirations and potentially split the country apart. However, they are exploring political reforms that could grant more authority to local governments. The United States has
or provided misleading information, investigators would only have considered that significant if they already presumed the courier’s importance. The aides did not address information provided by yet another al-Qaida operative: Hassan Ghul, captured in Iraq in 2004. Intelligence officials have described Ghul as the true lynchpin of the bin Laden investigation after he identified al-Kuwaiti as a critical courier. In a 2012 news release, Sen. Dianne Feinstein, the head of the Senate Intelligence Committee, and Sen. Carl Levin acknowledged an unidentified “third detainee” had provided relevant information on the courier. But they said he did so the day before he was subjected to harsh CIA interrogation. “This information will be detailed in the Intelligence committee’s report,” the senators said at the time. In any case, it still took the CIA years to learn alKuwaiti’s real identity: Sheikh Abu Ahmed, a Pakistani man born in Kuwait. How the U.S. learned of Ahmed’s name is still unclear. Without providing
full details, aides said the Senate report illustrates the importance of the National Security Agency’s efforts overseas. Intelligence officials have previously described how in the years when the CIA couldn’t find where bin Laden’s courier was, NSA eavesdroppers came up with nothing until 2010 — when Ahmed had a telephone conversation with someone monitored by U.S. intelligence. At that point, U.S. intelligence was able to follow Ahmed to bin Laden’s hideout. Feinstein and other senators have spoken only vaguely of the contents of the classified review. But they have made references to the divergence between their understanding of how the bin Laden operation came together and assertions of former CIA and Bush administration officials who have defended harsh interrogations. Feinstein will push to release a summary of the intelligence committee’s review later this week, starting a declassification process that could take several months before any documents are made public.
an hour into a flight from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing, was likely diverted deliberately far off course. Investigators have determined no apparent motive or other red flags among the 227 passengers or the 12 crew. China has also been critical in Malaysia’s handling of the case, but in a sign of softening, the official China Daily said it was understandable that not all sensitive information
could be made public. “Although the Malaysian government’s handling of the crisis has been quite clumsy, we need to understand that this is perhaps the most bizarre incident in Asia civil aviation history,” the editorial on Monday read. “Public opinion should not blame the Malaysian authorities for deliberately covering up information in the absence of hard evidence.”
MORE FLOTSAM Dozens of items have been spotted since Australian authorities moved the search 1,100 km (685 miles) north after new analysis of radar and satellite data, but none has been linked to Flight MH370. A multinational air search team and 10 ships, including seven Chinese vessels, two Australian navy craft and a merchant ship were searching the area on Monday, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority said in a statement. The new search area, while closer to Perth and subject to calmer weather, is also closer to an area of the Indian Ocean where currents drag all manner of flotsam and rubbish. “I would say the search area is located just outside of what we call the garbage patches,” Erik van Sebille, an oceanographer at the University of New South Wales said. Among the vessels due to join the search in the coming days is an Australian defence force ship, the Ocean Shield, that has been fitted with a sophisticated U.S. black box locator and an underwater drone.
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Djokovic beats Nadal to win Key Biscayne title
KEY BISCAYNE, March 31(AP): Novak Djokovic stretched like a rubber band to hit a backhand. He sprinted into the other corner and scooped out forehands as if he was wielding a shovel. He ran forward to slice a ball off his shoetops. And he flicked a difficult half-volley past a weary Rafael Nadal for a winner. That was just on the last point. With superior attack and defense, Djokovic earned his fourth Key Biscayne title, while Nadal failed again trying for his first. Djokovic took charge midway through the first set Sunday and closed out the victory by winning a remarkable exchange to beat Nadal 6-3, 6-3 in the final of the Sony Open. "This tournament has been perfect from the beginning to the end," Djokovic said. "The matches that I have played I played really well, and I elevated my game as the tournament progressed. The best performance of the tournament came in the right moment on Sunday, against the biggest rival." Nadal fell to 0-4 in finals at Key Biscayne, one of just three ATP Masters 1000 events he has yet to win. "No frustration. That's tennis," he said. "I tried everything. I tried my best. It was not enough. The opponent was just better than me, and when the opponent is better, he's better." As for Djokovic, only six-time champion Andre Agassi has won the men's event more. Djokovic erased the only break point he faced, committed just 15 unforced errors and won a scrambling, 30-shot rally on the final point with a series of improbable saves. He then dropped his racket, threw up his arms and collapsed on his back as the crowd roared. He completed a March sweep after beating Roger Federer in the final at Indian Wells two weeks ago. Even so, Nadal will remain ranked No. 1 and Djokovic No. 2. Either Nadal or Djokovic is the reigning champion in all nine Masters 1000 tournaments. Is Nadal glad to have Djokovic as a rival? "No," Nadal said with a smile. "I like challenges, but I am not stupid." Djokovic had a different take on the rivalry, and credited Nadal and Federer for helping him to become a six-time Grand Slam champion. "Because of Rafa and because of Roger, I am what I am today," Djokovic said. "All the big matches I lost to these guys, not winning the big matches,
Rivalry not trendy but enduring MIAMI, MArch 31 (reuters): While Roger Federer and Rafa Nadal may be the most trendy rivalry in men's tennis, the most enduring may be top ranked Nadal and Novak Djokovic, who clashed for the 40th time on Sunday in the final of the Sony Open. Any final featuring the world's two top ranked players automatically qualifies as significant but Nadal and Djokovic have elevated their clashes to something special. Despite Sunday's loss, Nadal continues to hold a slight edge, 22-18, in their head-to-head meetings, 20 of the matches having come with a title on the line, including six grand slam finals. With Djokovic's Miami victory, he and Nadal between them now hold all nine Masters series titles. "Definitely the biggest rivalry I have in my tennis career," said Djokovic without hesitation. "It's a great challenge always when I play Rafa on any surface, of course, especially on clay. "That is his most preferred surface, his most dominant there." Their meetings in recent years have especially been ones to remember, Djokovic said. "I have had some thrilling matches in last three or four years, and they were decided by few points," he said. "Very few matches that were one-sided, so I knew what to expect from Rafa today." they made me understand what I need to do on the court." Nadal and Djokovic have played 40 matches, the most of any men's pairing in the Open era, and few have been so lopsided. "I didn't have any letdowns throughout the whole match," Djokovic said. "I was in a very high level — serve, backhand, crosscourt, forehand. I have done everything right, and I'm thrilled with my performance." Nadal stood six feet behind the baseline to return and often remained on the defensive from there, with his shots lacking their normal depth. Djokovic was quick to step into the court and even won a point playing serve and volley. Chasing down shots Nadal usually counts as winners, Djokovic won the majority of long rallies. Serving well, Djokovic also won most of the short points. Nadal said he felt fine physically, and his problem was Djokovic. "He was having too much success with every shot," Nadal said. Nadal's lone breakpoint chance came in the opening game, and he failed to convert. Djokovic broke in the sixth game, hitting three consecutive winners before Nadal put a backhand in the net. Djokovic broke again in the opening game of the second set by winning a 22-shot exchange, and he held serve the rest of the way. "I did not want to lose focus for a second," Djokovic said, "because I knew that Rafa is a kind of a player that if you allow him, if you give him a chance, he's going to capitalize." The clay-court season looms, and the result might be different when the rivalry resumes on Nadal's favorite surface.
Novak Djokovic, of Serbia, holds his trophy after winning the Sony Open Tennis tournament defeating Rafeal Nadal, of Spain, 6-3, 6-3, Sunday, March 30, 2014, in Key Biscayne, Fla. (AP Photo)
NBA: Thunder too strong for Jazz Powerful quarterfinal lineup
OKLAhOMA cItY, MArch 31 (AP): Kevin Durant had 31 points and nine assists to help the Oklahoma City Thunder defeat the Utah Jazz 116-96 on Sunday afternoon. Durant scored at least 25 points for the 38th consecutive game, the longest streak since Michael Jordan did it in 40 straight games for the Chicago Bulls during the 1986-87 season. Russell Westbrook scored 19 points, Serge Ibaka had 17 points and Caron Butler added 15 for the Thunder, who have won six of seven. Oklahoma City shot 55 percent from the field and made 11 of 18 3-pointers and 23 of 26 free throws. Enes Kanter had 18 points and 12 rebounds, Richard Jefferson scored 17 points and Gordon Hayward added 16 points and nine rebounds for the Jazz, who have lost four in a row. Utah trailed 11-0 before Jefferson finally scored with 7:34 left in the first quarter.
Oklahoma City Thunder forward Kevin Durant (35) shoots in front of Utah Jazz forward Richard Jefferson (24) in the second quarter of an NBA basketball game in Oklahoma City, Sunday, March 30. (AP Photo)
Oklahoma City led 26-9 at the end of the quarter. It matched the fewest points the Thunder have allowed in any quarter this season and was the lowest
for the Jazz in a first quarter this season. Utah missed the NBA low for an opening quarter this season by making a basket with 19.5 seconds left. Hayward’s first
basket came with 3:21 left in the first half. Even with his 3-point play, the Jazz still trailed 49-30. Oklahoma City led 59-40 at halftime, and it might have
been a larger lead if Jefferson hadn’t dropped in 15 points in the first half, well above his season average of 10.2 points per game. Durant scored 18 points in the first half on 6-for-8 shooting and helped the Thunder shoot 57 percent before the break. Durant was fouled on a 3-pointer with 4:02 left in the third quarter and was awarded three free throws. He scored his 24th point on the first one, and the crowd started buzzing before the second one. After he made it, the fans let out a loud cheer. He also made the third to give the Thunder an 84-56 lead. Utah cut Oklahoma City’s lead to 89-77 late in the quarter before Durant hit a 3-pointer over Hayward with two seconds remaining to push the lead back up to 15 points. Hayward scored 13 points in the period, and the Jazz scored 37 points on 60 percent shooting. Utah scored 21 points in the final 3:44 of the third.
Dutch beat England by 45 runs
Sri Lanka crush New Zealand by 59 runs to reach semis
Netherlands players celebrate their victory against England during their ICC Twenty20 Cricket World Cup match in Chittagong, Bangladesh, Monday, March 31, 2014. Netherlands won by 45 runs. (AP Photo)
chIttAGONG, MArch 31 (AP): The Netherlands stunned England by 45 runs Monday at the World Twenty20. The Dutch bowlers came up with an excellent performance to leave England at 88 in 17.4 overs after they scored 133-5. Logan Van Beek and Mudassar Bukhari led the bowling attack by claiming three wickets apiece as the Netherlands cornered England right from the start. Peter Borren and Timm Van der Gugten grabbed one wicket each. Bukhari tilted the match toward the Dutch by dealing a double strike at the outset of the game, claiming Michael Lumb (6) and inform Alex Hales
(12). Van der Gugten then dismissed Eoin Morgan (6) as England crumbled. Ravi Bopara made 18 while Chris Jordan scored 14, and made some resistance but that was not enough. Van Beek conceded only nine runs for his three hauls while Bukhari had figures of 3-12. England captain Stuart Broad claimed 3-24 to restrict the Netherlands. England bowlers maintained a tight line and length to make the task difficult for the Dutch after Broad sent them in batting. Wesley Barresi was the highest scorer for the Netherlands with 48 off 45, including two fours and as many sixes. Stephan Myburgh made
39, while Michael Swart scored 13. Broad made an early inroad by taking out Swart but Myburgh and Barresi added 50 runs. Ravi Bopara struck in his first over by dismissing Myburgh, who hit six fours and one six off 31 balls. His dismissal slowed down the scoring rate as England established its firm control. Broad then took Borren and Tom Cooper to unsettle Netherlands further. Chris Jordan and Bopara finished with one wicket apiece. The Netherlands finished as fifth team in five-team league on net run rate as England finished as fourth. Both teams won only one game with England defeating Sri Lanka by six wickets.
NeW DeLhI, MArch 31 (tNN): Rangana Herath revived Sri Lankan hope for a semifinal berth claiming four quick wickets as New Zealand were half down even before crossing 30-mark during their chase of a moderate 120 in their last World T20 Super 10 match. After Martin Guptill got run out at the score of 18, Herath ripped through the Lankan top order by dismissing Brendon McCullum, Ross Taylor, Jimmy Neesham and Luke Ronchi in quick succession. While Guptill made 5 before getting run, McCullum failed to even get off the mark and was stumped out by Rangana Herath in the fourth over. Herath then struck twice in the sixth over and scalped Taylor (0) and Neesham (0) in consecutive deliveries. The spinner first trapped Taylor in front of wicket while Neesham, who shone with the bowl earlier during the day, was bowled out. In his next over Herath increased Kiwis worries by trapping Ronchi (2) leg be-
fore, reducing them to 29/5. Spinner Sachithra Senanayake also joined the party, removing Nathan McCullum to leave New Zealand tottering at 33/6 in 9.3 overs. Earlier, Trent Boult and Jimmy Neesham claimed three wickets apiece as New Zealand bowled Sri Lanka out for a moderate 119 with four balls to spare. Boult, with a career best 3/20, ripped through the top order while Neesham, who had figures of 3/22, cut through the tail as Sri Lanka stumbled. Mitchell McClenaghan gave support with 2-24. Mahela Jayawardene scored 25 for Sri Lanka, while Lahiru Thirimanne made 20. Sachitra Senanayake, who made 17, helped Sri Lanka to get past 100. Earlier, New Zealand pacer Trent Boult put Sri Lanka on back foot with early wickets after they were invited to bat. Boult ripped through the Lanka top order and dismissing Kusal Perera, Tillakaratne Dilshan and Kumar Sangakkara in his consecutive overs to reduce them to 35/3 in seven overs.
in Champions League
Bayern's Arjen Robben of the Netherlands, right, Bayern's Franck Ribery of France, left, and their teammates celebrate winning the German soccer championship after the German Bundesliga soccer match between Hertha BSC Berlin and Bayern Munich in Berlin, Germany, Tuesday, March 25. (AP Photo)
MANchester, MArch 31 (AP): Six past winners, three domestic league leaders and many of the world's best players take their places this week in one of the strongest quarterfinal lineups in the 22-year history of the Champions League. There appears to be no weak link in the last eight, with Manchester United unlikely to be written off by quarterfinal opponent and reigning champion Bayern Munich despite a disappointing Premier League season in the post-Alex Ferguson era. Barcelona and Atletico Madrid meet in a matchup between Spain's current top two teams, nine-time European champion Real Madrid aims to avenge last season's semifinal defeat to Borussia Dortmund while Paris Saint-Germain takes on Chelsea. Here is a lookahead to this week's first legs in the Champions League quarterfinals: MANCHESTER UNITEDBAYERN MUNICH United comes into Tuesday's match on the back of a big win in the Premier League. Bayern heads to Old Trafford off a disappointing draw in the Bundesliga. Don't be fooled, though — that's hardly a representation of their respective seasons. While Bayern has breezed to the German championship with two months to spare, United has endured a woeful season under David Moyes in the defense of its English ti-
tle and is languishing in seventh place in the standings. United, which needs to win the Champions League to secure a return to the competition next season, has saved some of its best performances for Europe but will rarely have been a bigger underdog going into a home-and-away matchup. Bayern has already handsomely beaten Manchester City and Arsenal on trips to England this season and its attacking power should be too much for United's flaky defense. BARCELONA-ATLETICO MADRID Despite their contrasting styles, it's tough to have a more evenly matched pairing than Barcelona and Atletico Madrid. The two sides have already met three times this season and neither has been able to emerge victorious. They drew twice in the season-opening Spanish Super Cup (1-1 at the Vicente Calderon, 0-0 at Camp Nou), with Barcelona claiming the title on away goals, and then again (0-0 at Atletico) in the league. Tuesday's first leg at Camp Nou will pit the Spanish league leader in Atletico with its nearest chaser as Barcelona trails by one point with seven rounds to go. The two will meet a sixth time this season in the final round of La Liga, which — if neither drop points until then — would decide the title. Both teams enter on winning streaks and with
red-hot strikers — Lionel Messi has scored 36 goals in all competitions for Barca this season and Diego Costa has netted 33 times for Atletico. The key to the match will likely be whether Diego Simeone's team can again hold Messi and Barcelona's passing attack in check as they so far have this campaign. "Barcelona, for its history, is perhaps a slight favorite," Barcelona midfielder Xavi Hernandez said, "but if we look at how both teams are playing now, we are on the same level." REAL MADRID-BORUSSIA DORTMUND This may not be the same Dortmund side that ousted Madrid from the semifinals last season, but after appearing invulnerable during a 31-game unbeaten streak, Real Madrid has proven to be more than beatable. Over the past week, Real slumped to its first back-toback losses in the Spanish league since 2009, with defeats to Barcelona and Sevilla. Madrid did manage to bounce back with a 5-0 rout of minnow Rayo Vallecano on Saturday, but even that lopsided victory was tarnished by bad vibrations both on the pitch and in the Santiago Bernabeu stands. With the win clinched, Madrid stars Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale seemed reluctant to pass the ball, and some fans dared to jeer Ronaldo when he didn't seek open teammates.
11 Entertainment Naga’s Next Top Model Season-1 Vidya Receives Padma Shri! to stage Grand Finale on April 19 Tuesday
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1 April 2014
Finalist with President Opang Jamir and Ako Lkr designer in the center
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aga’s next top model Season-1 Grand Finale will be held on April 19 at Nousie Auditorium,Niathu Resort Dimapur, from 6pm onwards. The season-1 female
winner will represent India at Miss Supermodel International 2014 to be held later this year at South Korea and the male winner will represent at Mister Planet contest. Naga’s Next Top Model, the first model search from
the state was started last year on June 6 2013. So far the team has conducted 3 major shows, 2 days outdoor official photo shoot with celebrity model and winner of Femina Miss India East 2012, Himakshi
Agarwal, 3 minor shows and intensive grooming session with experts from modeling industry. Naga’s Next Top Model gaining its name regionally and nationally, is the production of Opang Jamir Metsubo, former Mister International India 2012/ Entrepreneur/Singer, and powered under O.J Modeling Grooming & Training Agency and Nagaland Post as the Official Media Partner. At the Grand Finale, designer-Ako Lkr, Leejen’s (Colors of Nagaland), Susan Collection etc to showcase their design and the photographers are A2 Productions, Manoj Photography from New Delhi. The finalist at the O.J Modeling Grooming Studio held their last briefing and photo shoot in Ako Lkr collection’s which was declared by the public relations executive NNTM and Assistant of O. J Modeling Grooming & Training Agency.
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ew Delhi, March 31 (agencies): The Nation’s fourth highest civilian award, Padma Shri, was given to Vidya Balan, who was over the moon. Vidya Balan 36, whose films such as Ishqiya, Paa and No One Killed Jessica, have got both commercial and critically acclaimed, said that it felt unreal to have received such a presti-
gious award. “Everyone is feeling very happy and proud. As for me, I’m just feeling grateful,” she said. The national awardwinning actor never imagined she would receive this prestigious Padma Shri. “With a film award, there is a nomination process, so you know there’s a possibility. Here, there was nothing of the sort. It was a wonder-
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ful surprise,” said Vidya earlier in an interview. Bollywood bombshell, who has never bothered about her weight issues is infact so confident in carrying herself with that oomph factor. Recently, she was rumoured to be pregnant by opting out of many films in her kitty. We wish Vidya Balan many more such awards and recognitions in the years to come.
Rainbow Choir releases album
‘Dimension Five’ a band of young boys have released their new single - “Everything Will Be Right” on youtube. Band members include Yanger Imsong (Vocal); Akumlong Imsong (Vocal); Oktenpong Jamir (Guitar); Shati Jamir (Vocal + Drums); Nukshilong Kichu (Keyboard). A production of Rain Drops Entertainment based in Dimapur, “Everything Will Be Right” is Composed and written by Along Longchar; set design and make up – Wangshizenla, videography and Editing - MTakum Aier (Rain Drops Entertainment); Music by - Along Lcr, MTakum and Element Indie Records and also recorded at Element Indie Records. Encourage and support the young talents by viewing, listening and sharing the song at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6bv81Teba70
Mathung Odyuo and Lamtsala M. Sangtam during the release of the album of Rainbow Choir Nagaland. (Photo Courtesy/Heutinggum)
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ainbow Choir made a special guest appearance during the Voice of Nagaland programme. The Rainbow Choir enthralled the participants and the audience with their bollywood song from the movie Chennai Express. The Rainbow Choir, formed with a vision to promote the
culture and tradition of Nagas, participated in reality show ‘India’s got talent’. However, since their performance was not telecast, they decided to bring out an album in order to acknowledge their many supporters and well-wishers, stated a press release received here. The album consists of bolly-
wood songs with fusion of Naga folk tunes which is purely meant for entertainment purpose and private circulation. Their maiden album was released by the judges of Voice of Nagaland show, Mathung Odyuo founder members of the band Purple Fusion and Lamchala A supermodel on the rise - Ketholeno Kense on the cover of April 2014 Elle magazine India. M. Sangtam.
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davp 17102/13/0045/1314
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Department of AIDS Control, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India
Shri A.H. Khan Chowdhury Hon'ble Minister of State Health & Family Welfare
Smt. Sonia Gandhi Hon'ble Chairperson, UPA
Dr. Manmohan Singh Hon'ble Prime Minister
Shri Ghulam Nabi Azad Hon'ble Union Minister Health & Family Welfare
Smt. Santosh Chowdhary Hon'ble Minister of State Health & Family Welfare
Key Achievements: New HIV infections among adult population have reduced by 57% during the last 10 years. Prevalence of HIV reduced among female sex workers from 5.06% to 2.67% and among men who have sex with men from 7.41% to 4.43% during 2007-2011.
187.49 lakh persons including 82.94 lakh pregnant women were provided HIV counselling and testing services during 2012-13. 57.9 lakh cases of Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) have been treated during 2013-14 (till November 2013).
To promote safe sex practices condom distribution increased from 180 crore to 300 crore during 2007-2012.
Provision of safe blood increased to more than double from 44 lakh units to 98 lakh units during 2007-2012.
7.34 lakh people living with HIV/AIDS are being provided free Anti-Retroviral Treatment (ART) in health facilities and 7224 persons have been given 2nd line ART.
Wider awareness, counseling and testing facilities were provided to 2.57 crore people through three phases of Red Ribbon Express, a special train hired by Department of AIDS Control, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India.
Wider access to ART has led to 29% reduction in AIDS related deaths during 2007-2011.
Special folk media campaign spreading awareness on HIV/AIDS reached out to 2.64 crore people during 201112 and 2012-13.
Scale up of Anti-Retroviral Treatment (ART) and initiation of 3rd line ART. Roll-out of Multi-Drug Regimen for Prevention of Parent to Child Transmission.
Scale up of interventions among Transgender populations through community participation. Scale up of Opioid Substitution Therapy for Injecting Drug Users.
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New initiatives instituted under NACP-IV (2012-17):
Strengthen Migrant Interventions at Source, Transit and Destinations.
Let us all unite to achieve our vision of
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India’s voice against AIDS
Department of AIDS Control Ministry of Health & Family Welfare Government of India www.naco.gov.in
“Zero new HIV Infections Zero Discrimination Zero AIDS related Deaths”