22th March 2014

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www.morungexpress.com

Dimapur VOL. IX ISSUE 78

reflections

By Sandemo Ngullie

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The Morung Express www.morungexpress.com

Not brute force but only persuasion and faith are the kings of this world

Four get life sentence in Shakti Mills gang-rape

Alia Bhatt to collaborate with LMFAO’s RedFoo

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Second day of fourth session of 12th NLA

Saturday, March 22, 2014 12 pages Rs. 4 –Thomas Carlyle

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India avenge Asia Cup humiliation, maul Pakistan in Mirpur

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Russia completes Crimea annexation

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naga leaders emphasize reconciliation

Reconciliation does not end with the factions: Swu Gen. Khole calls for Nagas have to be unity, reconciliation prepared for any eventuality: Muivah

I can’t contest from here because the people here know me inside out.

March 22 is a working day Kohima, march 21 (DiPr): Principal Secretary & Home Commissioner, Nagaland, Temjen Toy, in a notification today, declared that March 22, Saturday will be a working day for all the offices located in Kohima. This has been done, in view of the ongoing NLA session. All Administrative Heads and Heads of Department have been directed to ensure attendance of the respective officers and staff.

CFMG informs Naga Political Groups Kohima, march 21 (mExN): The Chairman of the Ceasefire Monitoring Group, Lt Gen NK Singh (Retd), in view of the upcoming LS polls in the state, has informed all Naga groups to conform to the instructions of the district administrations, regarding the ban on carrying of firearms, except for security forces. The Chairman, in a press note, further informed that the date for lifting the ban on carrying of arms will be intimated after the election process is over.

Naga political prisoner “continually abused”

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NEW DELhi, march 21 (mExN): The Naga Peoples’ Movement for Human Rights has written to the District and Sessions Judge of Patiala House Courts, IS Mehta, expressing concern that jailed Naga political prisoner Anthony Shimray has been “continually abused” at Central Jail No 4, Tihar. The letter, signed

by NPMHR Convener, Chingri Vashum and Con Convener, Vide Yhokha, informed that Shimray has been “abused” and “threatened” by Head Constable, Surender Kumar Rado, despite complaints made by the former to the appropriate jail authorities.

NPMHR stated that on the evening of March 11, Shimray was “brutally assaulted” and “roughly manhandled” by the Head Constable. It added that Shimray has been on a fast, since the incident, because of “non action” to his complaints. NPMHR expressed concern that such “abuse and violence of rights, targeting a particular inmate remains unaddressed.” It urged upon the Judge to look into the matter and take necessary action to prevent it from happening again. NPMHR also attached the complaint letter, submitted by Shimray to the Jail Superintendent, which has also been signed by sixteen inmates, who were witnesses to the incidents.

DimaPUr, march 21 (mExN): NSCN (IM) Yaruiwo (President), Isak Chishi Swu today asserted that the “reconciliation process does not end with the factions,” and that “it will go to the people, our neighbors and enemies.” He stated this while addressing the NSCN (IM) celebration of the 35th Republic Day at Hebron Camp on March 21. Affirming that “reconciliation is a political necessity,” he called upon all Nagas to “unite to build a land of peace and prosperity and leave a bright future for the coming generations.”

Swu further stated that, “We will no longer allow any power, alien or domestic to rule over us.

It is a historic change from the old system into the new one.”

Reiterating that the NSCN (IM) is deeply committed to seeking political solution to the Naga issue, Swu said people know that the NSCN has never ever deserted the “cause”, but always “stood the ground when the storm rocked the boat.”

“Foundations for solution have been laid. Many rational people opine that ‘a kind of solution that embraces all Naga territories and guarantees the future of the Nagas and the interests of India may be an option.’ We will be faithful to our commitment.

A cadre of the Naga Army stands guard during the Republic day celebration in a designated camp on Friday, March 21. Photo by Caisii Mao

We know serious consequences naturally follow when one goes back upon his word”, he added.

In an ominous forecast of

possible breakdown of the peace process between the NSCN (IM) and Government of India and the 17 years running ceasefire,

NSCN (IM) general secretary, Th. Muivah, in his speech, asked the Naga people to be prepared for any eventuality.

“The worst may come, we have to be prepared for that”, the NSCN leader said while highlighting the progress of the peace talks. Peace talks between the NSCN (IM) and GoI have not progressed as expected in the last ten years under the UPA government and both Muivah and Swu, recently returned to Nagaland, after spending more than three months in Delhi, without taking part in any formal peace talks.

Though talks between the NSCN (IM) and GoI are likely to resume after the parliamentary elections, Muivah said that by now both sides have assessed each other’s stand and position clearly. He further asserted that the future belongs only to those people who are ready to face challenges. “Don’t be disheartened or afraid. Let us be prepared. We will stand our ground”, Muivah added.

Muivah stated that the biggest hurdle to political settlement was the Nagas themselves, the “sins and self-righteousness” of the Naga people, including different Naga political groups, which has “displeased God.” “Unless Naga people and the NSCN repent, we will all perish together. The day we repent and God is pleased with the Nagas, solution will come”, the NSCN leader said.

Full text of speech on page 6

Aspiration of the Naga people is for all Naga political groups to come together, asserts Kitovi

DimaPUr, march 21 (mExN): Chairman of the GPRN/NSCN, Gen (Rtd) Khole Konyak today affirmed commitment to “unity and reconciliation,” by stating that “solution to the Naga political problem can never be achieved until we come together and contribute our share in the struggle.”

He stated this during the GPRN/NSCN celebration of the 34th Naga Republic Day at Kehoi designated camp on March 21.

He asserted that “today’s political solution or any solution will depend on every individual’s commitment and determination.” “We should all realize that other people will not come to solve our problem. Therefore I urge every Nagas to realize the futility of confining our self within the self erected penal complex and come out in the open and express your opinion without any reservation,” he added.

Ato Kilonser, N Kitovi Zhimomi said that the aspiration of the Naga people is that all Naga political groups should come together and work in

unison to settle the longstanding Indo-Naga political problem. Adding that “killing and bloodshed among brothers will never bring any solution but destruction and chaos to our Naga soil,” he urged all national workers to work with strong dedication.

The event was held with Alezo Venuh, Envoy to the collective leadership as the chief guest.

Venuh, in his speech, first highlighted on the significance of the Naga Republic day and challenged the members present to be “more vigilant and reaffirm themselves to the National cause with firm dedication.”

Adding that the desire of the populace depended on their steadfastness and perseverance while they carried out their tasks, he urged the national workers to expect the possible outcome of the IndoNaga political settlement “at the earliest” under the leadership of the collective leaders, President, Gen. (Retd.) Khole Konyak and Ato Kilonser, N. Kitovi Zhimomi.

Other highlights of the program included the declaration of promotion order of the Naga Armies to their next higher rank by Inaka Tsuqu, Secretary Keeya (Defence) affairs and speeches by senior leaders of the GPRN/NSCN. Full text of speech on page 6

rio places Vote on HPC on “taxation” is being constituted Account for 2014-15 Our Correspondent Kohima | March 21

Kohima, march 21 (DiPr): Nagaland Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio, who is also in charge of Finance, today sought approval from the house for withdrawal of Rs. 3523.58 Crore from the Consolidated Fund of Nagaland state, in order to defray the expenses of the state government. He did this on the second day of the ongoing session of the NLA, while placing the vote on account for 2014-15.

On the Naga Political issue, Rio admitted that it continues to elude a solution despite best efforts.

However, he mentioned that serious efforts were made to persuade the Union Government for taking concrete steps to solve the Naga Political issue and was hopeful that the issue will gain due priority, after the ensuing Parliamentary Elections.

Highlighting the finances of the state, Rio reminded about the fixation of plan size for Nagaland state (2013-14) at Rs 2000 Crores by the Planning Commission. This is inclusive of normal funding of North Eastern states, usually received under DONER and NEC. Such inclusion of NEC funds and NLCPR funds to the state’s plan outlay has never been done before and hence there were strong objections by all the NE states. In view of the objections, the Planning Commission assured for a mid-term review of the state’s plan allocations in the month of September to October 2013. However

no such exercise has been taken by the Planning Commission, Rio regretted.

The Chief Minister affirmed the decision of the State Government to go ahead with the implementation of all projects initiated under the special development package from the state’s own flexible plan funds in stages, whether the central government releases the fund or not.

In his presentation, Rio said that emphasis has been given to the social service sectors by making the best use of the meager state

Nagaland state govt seeks approval for withdrawal of Rs 3523.58 Cr from Consolidate Fund of Nagaland plan allocation. The central government’s unilateral abrogation of the practices of covering the BCR gap of the state government on annual basis, through additional Central Plan Grants since the year 1989-90, leading to growing budget deficits since then, has been brought to the notice of the Commission, Rio informed.

Rio also mentioned that the Finance Commission has been apprised of some special requirements and state specific programmes, amounting to Rs 1394.97 Crores for implementation through special grants dur-

ing the period from 201516 to 2019-20.

Commenting on the Hornbill Festival and emergence of Nagaland as a tourist destination, Rio expressed optimism that the tourism sector would see growth in the coming years, providing a boost to income generation and employment in the service sector.

Rio further announced that Nagaland will be participating in the Royal Edinburgh Military Tatoo 2014, which he said would expose Nagaland to an international audience.

He further informed that the 2014 edition of the Handshake Concert is being planned to be held in Myanmar and expressed confidence that Naga youth would be positive ambassadors of Naga culture and contribute towards friendship and better ties. He went on to say that the participation of the Northeast India Academy of Performing Arts at New York Fashion Week 2014 was a significant moment for all the Nagas.

In the field of sports, Rio pointed out that sportspersons from the state have excelled at the national and international levels, and cited Nagaland winning three medals at the 14th Senior Boxing Championship, the National Veteran Badminton Championship 2014 and the two veterans from Nagaland representing India at the World Veteran Badminton Championship held in Turkey.

Assembly news on page 2&5

Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today stated that the government is taking all necessary measures to contain illegal taxation in the state. Addressing the NLA session today, he informed that the setting up of a High Powered Committee to check illegal taxation, as requested by the ACAUT Nagaland, is not a problem but that demands for inclusion of a retired Judge and some formalities have delayed the process. He further appreciated the activities of ACUAT Nagaland.

Earlier, Nagaland Home Minister, G Kaito Aye informed that the HPC is in the process of being constituted and that the details would be made available after its finalization. Kaito stated this in reply to starred questions raised by NLA members, Dr Imtiwapang Aier and C Apok Jamir. On queries regarding the government’s cognizance on multiple taxation by various groups on the business establishment, the Minister replied that the law enforcement agencies have been geared up to enforce the rule of law.

He informed that the government has issued

an order directing against collection of taxes by any organization or individuals including government departments such as Police, Excise, Forest and Taxes etc. He added that the government had issued an order reiterating earlier orders and warning prosecution under Section 188 and 384 of IPC. It may be recalled that the state government in its order dated May 31, 2012, ordered that no unions, or associations, or NGOs or any other private or community organizations shall be allowed to collect any form of taxes membership free/sub-

scription /contribution/donation/charge/levy/tool/ or any other form of collection of money on state highways/ national highways or market places, except those expressly authorized by an order of the government.

The order also stated that no union or associations/NGOs, connected with welfare of transporters or with any business interest, shall be allowed to operate any main offices/ sub-offices/information centre/welfare centre/Kiosk/any other structure, in the name of the organizations, at state highways or national highways.

Work-charge employees demonstrate

Work-charge employees of the Nagaland government demonstrate at the Clock Tower, Dimapur on March 21 as part of the state-wide sit-in demonstration organised by the ANIDFSAJF.

DimaPUr, march 21 (mExN): Work-charge employees from ten departments carried out a token demonstration today, expressing resentment against the Nagaland Government’s apparent indifference to its demands. Under the banner of All Nagaland Inter-Departmental Field Staff Associations Joint Forum (ANIDFSAJF), work-charge employees had issued a 7-day ultimatum to the Nagaland government on March 14.

The deadline ended on March 21.

The ANIDFSAJF is demanding “revision of pay and regularization of

services of work-charge employees” based on a directive of the Gauhati High Court dating to March 2012. The ultimatum which was made after two earlier representations had been submitted to the Chief Minister in February 3 and March 6, 2014. On March 21, the demonstrations were observed in all district headquarters from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. In Kohima, the forum demonstrated in front of the Nagaland Secretariat.

The employees are protesting the rigid salary system and against the lack of a pension plan. One of the em-

ployees demonstrating in Dimapur rued the fact that many work-charge employees have retired after serving 30-plus years, on a meagre monthly pay, without any pension benefit.

“Many more will face the same fate if the government do not attend to our demands.” The demonstrator further alleged that backdoor appointments and “ministerial chits” prevent deserving work-charge employees from getting their services ‘regularised’.

There are an estimated 20, 000-plus workers employed by the state government on fixed pay. This workforce of the government is employed for menial and often dangerous tasks.

The next phase of the agitation will be in the form of ‘cease work,’ which will result in disruption of water and power supply. The protesters further cautioned that they would resort to road blockades. ANIDFSAJF sources later informed that its colleagues, demonstrating in Kohima, could not meet any government official. They were met by an undisclosed Minister’s PS (Personal Secretary), who relayed a message that the forum’s demands will be looked into only after the LS elections, the sources said.

With the Chief Minister in the fray, the sources were apprehensive of their demands being left in the backburner.

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Dimapur

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Total amount received under IWMP Parliamentary Secretary for Land Resources, B.S. Nganlang in response to a question raise by MLA Dr. Imliwapang Aier said that the total amount received by the department under IWMP scheme was Rs. 270,60,50,860. The area covered in the state was 1,80,000 ha and uncovered area under the scheme was 24,3000 ha. The parliamentary secretary furnished the expenditure amount year

wise starting from 2009-2010 till date, Arunachal to discuss about the Naga which came to Rs. 270,60,50,860. political issue, but the Centre did not invite Chief Minister of Nagaland for discussion of Naga issue, for which he Minister on exploration of P&NG Minister for Geology & Mining, felt that the Centre is not honest to the T.R. Zeliang replying to a starred Naga political issue. question raised by MLA Tokheho in regard to exploration of petroleum Forest minister on and natural gas stated that the State devastations by elephants government has already issued two In response to starred question pre-production permits to two oil raised by the opposition bench about companies in Mon, Peren and Wokha wild elephants damaging crops and districts for first phase of exploration properties under Wokha district, and development programme. He Minister for Forest, Y. Patton said that also said that as per rule, the said per- when the government receive informit holders shall start oil exploration mation about damages of crops and with immediate effect. properties by wild elephants, the offiReplying to a supplementary cers and staff of the department conquestion of MLA Tokheho on wheth- cerned inspect the spot for proper er the company will set up Oil Refin- verification and pay compensation ery in the State, the Minister said that to the affected farmers. He also said the companies have submitted their that if villagers could donate land, profile with expression of interest. the Government is ready to establish However, he said, it will depend on community conservation of wildlife the quantity of the production which area in the district. He also said that could be ascertained after the first during the last three years, the Govphase of exploration. ernment has spent Rs. 1,39,350 to pay the victims.

Home minister and chief minister on Naga political issue Zhaleo Rio replies on municipal In response to the opposition & town council election bench, the Home Minister, Kaito Parliamentary Secretary for Ursaid the political negotiation is be- ban Development, Zhaleo Rio antween the Government of India and swering to a starred question raised “Underground” groups. He pointed by MLA Tokheho Yepthomi said that out that around 68 talks have been the election to Municipal & Town held with the Centre, but currently Council has been sub-judiced due the ongoing peace talk have been to Special Leave Petition (SLP) filed hampered due to non appointment by the Joint Action Committee on of Interlocutor by the Centre. Com- Women Reservation (JACWR) in the menting on the Naga political talks Supreme Court. He also stated that between the Government of India the elections for Municipal & Town and “Underground” groups, Chief Council were due during 2010, as per Minister Rio said that the Joint Leg- normal tenure. However, the election islature Forum comprising of 60 leg- was postponed in view of represenislators have resolved to pursue the tations received from various Naga vexed Naga political issue for earlier NGOs to withhold the elections to settlement, where the NPF led DAN Municipalities, opposing to the 1/3 Government is a facilitator between reservation of seats for women and GoI and the factions, he added. Rio due to the ongoing reconciliation and also said that the Centre has invit- peace process at that period of time. ed Chief Ministers of Manipur and More related news on page 5

In Memoriam First Death Anniversary of Kaka Mhayani Ovung

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The Morung Express

Second day of fourth Corporate Social Responsibility in Action Charity car wash raises funds for little children session of 12th NLA KOHIMA, MARCH 21 (DIPR): On the second day of the fourth session of twelfth Nagaland Legislative Assembly, besides starred questions and supplementary questions, other list of business included Assent to Bill, where Secretary NLA, A.E. Lotha reported the assent of the Governor of Nagaland on Nagaland salaries, allowances and other facilities of the Chief Minister, other ministers, speaker, leader of opposition, deputy speaker, parliamentary secretaries and other members of NLA. Pension for Ex-Members Act 2005 (4th Amendment) Bill 2013, administrative reports of various departments were laid on the floor of the House.

Government Bills including the Nagaland State Council of Higher Education Bill 2014, Nagaland Medical Council Bill 2014, Nagaland State Paramedical Bill 2014, and Nagaland Board of School Education Amendment Bill 2014 were introduced in the House. Speaker NLA Chotisuh Sazo informed that consideration and passing of these Bills would be taken up on March 22, 2014, and amendments, if any may, be submitted till 3 pm today, March 21, 2014. Supplementary demands for grants for the year 2013-14 and also statement of vote on account for the year 2014-15 was presented in the House by Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio. Discussion on vote on account will take place on March 24, informed the NLA Speaker.

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LocaL

Saturday

Our Beloved we remember Your smile Your laughter Your precious joy Your gentle soul Our Beloved we remember Our days together The happiness you brought The faith you gave us Your life – Fresh, vibrant and pure

Our Beloved we remember You - Your loved ones

SDO (Civil) Dimapur Temjensangla Assumi inaugurating the fundraiser on March 21 at Okusa Toyota, Walford area, near Don Bosco Statue, Dimapur.

DIMAPuR, MARCH 21 (MExN): Helping to raise money for the little children of Mother’s Hope, a Car Wash Fundraiser was held in Dimapur today. This car wash will help raise money to purchase Air Conditioners for the baby nursery and show support for the work done by Mother’s Hope.

The brilliant idea was initiated by Riverlife group, a team of 15 young working professionals willing to lend a helping hand to the society.

The chief guest for the inaugural programme was SDO (Civil) Dimapur Temjensangla Assumi. The SDO was also the first donor of the fundraiser.

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Toyota personnel washing car of one of the donors during the fundraiser.

K .Agape Achumi, Manager-Sales, expressed happiness at the response and support received on the first day alone. “We are receiving a lot of support from businesses, individuals, and organizations.

Other showrooms have also extended immense help,” he said. “It was more than expected and I hope people continue to be inspired to reach out to those who require our assistance.”

Achumi also stressed that the event is not a brand promotion. “This is not about us at all but solely organized for the benefit of the little children,” he asserted. “We also hope that

through this event, other charity organizations have a point of contact with the corporate sector.” He expressed that in Nagaland, the idea of corporate responsibility has not really picked up as of yet.

“We are hoping for this to change, because Nagaland has huge number of showrooms now and the market is ever expanding. It is essential that companies realize the importance of Corporate Responsibility,” he added.

In her message, Moamenla Jamir, Founder Director, Mother’s Hope thanked Okusa Toyota Dimapur for its generosity and “setting an incredible

example in the corporate sector in taking up social responsibility and remembering the less fortunate in the midst of your success.”

She further acknowledged each person who had come forward in contributing their “time, resources, and finance to make this event a grand success.”

In addition, Okusa Toyota is offering a free Insurance Coupon worth Rs 25,000 to all the donors. The second day of the fundraiser is on March 22. To contribute, head on to Okusa Toyota, Walford area, near Don Bosco Statue, Dimapur, get your car washed and contribute any amount you like.

ANIDFSA JF Kiphire joins sit-in protest

Yimrup Village Council appeals T u E N s A N g , MARCH 21 (MExN): Yimrup Village Council, Tuensang has written to the parliamentary secretary and Chief Engineer, Department of Power stating that the transformer connected to the village, covering five villages has been damaged and unable to supply power for more than a month.

The letter appended by Head GB Langa and Village Council chairman M Toshang has appealed the competent authority to replace the transformer as soon as possible because the Platinum Jubilee of Yimrup Baptist Church is scheduled to be held from April 4 to 6.

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Several hundreds of work-charged employees on March 21 staged a dharna at the entrance of Nagaland civil secretariat demanding regularization of their services. The dharna was organised by All Nagaland Inter-departmental Field Staff Associations Joint Forum. The forum which comprises of work-charged employees from several departments has been demanding regularization of their services and implementation of Revision of Pay (RoP). There are more than 7000 work-charged employees.

KIPHIRE, MARCH 21 (MExN): Joining the rest of the state, All Nagaland Inter-Departmental Field Staff Association Joint Forum (ANIDFSA JF) of Kiphire Unit comprising of members from various departments today organized a sit-in protest at Deluxe Point, Kiphire.

Dismayed over the non responsive attitudes with regard to Revision of Pay (ROP) for the work charged employees, non-payment of regular salaries and inability to regularize their service, the Forum joined the sit-in protest to express their resentment. Displaying banners that read, "We condemn the indifferent

attitude of Government towards work-charge employees," "Implement Court orders for workcharge employees," and "Honor the rights to earn livelihood for work-charge employees," ANIDFSA JF demanded three points from the government.

In Kiphire, ANIDFSA JF members are mostly from PHED, and PWD (Housing & R&B). Medical department too took part at the sitin protest. President of ANIDFSA JF Kiphire unit Shukiu Tikhir and General Secretary Tsakyumong Sangtam have expressed to extend their support to the central unit in support of their demand throughout the agitation.

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Tening Village Council laments neglect in water supply SKK supports ‘authentic’

P E R E N, M A R C H 2 1 (MExN): Tening Village Council, on behalf of the people residing in Tening, has expressed dismay over the “total negligence of water supply by PHE department.” In 2013, the village council said, the department could cover only one month and the water supply was “completely cut off” for the rest of the months “due to their negligence in their duty.”

A press statement appended by the Village Council Chairman Ramga and Secretary Khenglu lamented that the officer-in-charge never gave a slight attention to the

grievances faced by the consumers. However, the consumers continued to pay their water bills. The department concerned headed by SDO (PHED) is responsible as “they were never sincere and reluctant in their duty,” alleged the statement. “They come to office twice, thrice in a year.”

It further stated that the situation has worsened, adding, from January till date there has been not a drop of water supply whereas in the main sources, there is sufficient water for supply. In light of this, Tening Village Council has appealed to the highest authority to take

necessary measures and make an alternative arrangement and take action against those who neglect their duty before the interference of the public.

It cautioned that the Council will not be responsible for any untoward incident towards the department.

Last year, the Council stated, the department escaped with repeated excuses, “unfortunately there will be no further excuse this year.” The Council has decided to take appropriate action against those who are responsible, those who refuse the utmost need of the people, it added.

demand of SSA teachers

DIMAPuR, MARCH 21 (MExN): Drawing attention regarding the recent imbroglio between the SSA teachers and the State government, the All Sumi Students’ Union (SKK) has extended its support and solidarity to the “authentic” demand of SSA teachers. “The unjustifiable demand for salary is unquestionable and is rightful entitlement of every government employed,” SKK stated in a press release.

Khuketo Y Yepthomi, Vice-President and Kuhoxe Kinimi, Education Secretary further appealed to the state government to release the pending salaries and arrears at the earliest for the welfare of the teachers and students. The state government should not put the future of the students at stake in the tussle between the two, they asserted.

World Forestry Day observed at Agape School Kiphire Our Correspondent Kiphire | March 21

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Along with the rest of the world, Eco Club of Agape School here in collaboration with Wildlife division Kiphire today commemorated World Forestry Day by conducting quiz, environment talks and screening documentaries on environment with Hemant Bhaskar Kamdi, IFS, as special guest.

Stressing on the importance of environment, the special guest asked the students to preserve environment and also advised the students to plant trees and take care of them so “the environment we live in will be healthier, cleaner and better for all of us to live.”

The special guest also assured the students to provide tree saplings so that they plant trees on World Environment Day. Advising the students, he stated, each student is talented and intelligent and to make it fruitful one should be sincere, disciplined and hardworking.

In his keynote address, P. Achumse, principal of the school acknowledged it was a privilege for the school to have wildlife warden on such a special day. He added that forests support the life of people and it is the source of livelihood for many people and asked the students to take proper care of environment. He also expressed gratitude to the wildlife warden for his presence and interacting with the Wildlife Warden Kiphire, Hemant Bhaskar Kamdi (IFS) addressing the students of Agape School, Kiphire on World Forestry Day. students.

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REgional

The Morung Express

7 files nomination papers in Manipur

IMPHAL, MArcH 21 (NNN): So far six candidates have filed their nominations for Outer Manipur Parliamentary constituency and one for the Inner seat till date.

The last date for the filing of nomination for the Outer Parliamentary seat is March 22 and the scrutiny on March 24 and the last date for the withdrawal of their nomination papers or their candidatures is March 26.

Sitting Congress MP Thangso Baite, Soso Lorho of the Naga People's Front (NPF) and Lamminlein alias Lien Gangte of the Janata Dal (United) filed their nomination papers today before the returning officer T Ranjit, the deputy commissioner of Thoubal district.

Indian National Congress (INC) candidate

Northeast Briefs

'Bru refugees in Tripura will be allowed to vote'

AGArTALA, MArcH 21 (PTI): The displaced people of Bru community from neighbouring Mizoram, now sheltered in six evacuee camps in North Tripura district, will be allowed to vote through postal ballots, the Tripura Chief Electoral Officer said here today. The Bru people had fled Mizoram following ethnic violence in 19971998.

Bru voters, whose names are registered in the electoral rolls of Mizoram, would be allowed to exercise their franchise through postal ballot papers from April 01 to 03, Tripura Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) Ashutosh Jindal said. About 37,000 refugees in the relief camps belong to 10 assembly constituencies in Mamit, Kolasib and Lunglei districts of Mizoram, state election department sources said.

Arunachal LS candidates to engage in debate

ITANAGAr, MArcH 21 (TNN): In a move reminiscent of US presidential election debates, the state's Lok Sabha candidates are all set to thrash out their political aims and viewpoints at an open debate in the city. To create awareness about the election manifestos of various political parties among the state's voters, the Association of Democratic Reforms (ADR), in collaboration with the Arunachal Civil Society (ACS), will host the event-'Know your Leaders'-at Banquet Hall here on March 30, said ADR member and assistant professor at RGU, D Gao, while addressing the media here on Thursday.

Thangso Baite filed his nomination paper in the morning following proposals from Ministers Franchis Ngajokpa, Moirangthem Okendro, Chaltonlien Amo, and Victor Keishing.

Chief Minister O Ibobi and Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam also accompanied the Congress candidate.

Soso Lorho (NPF) filed his nomination paper after Adim Pamei proposed his name. Lamminlein alias Lien Gangte of the Janata Dal (United) also filed his nomination paper. Gangte’s name was proposed

by Chungjalen, Onkhosei, Chunglunlal, Thangminthang, Limjalet, Hemsei, Seitinmang, Lunkholal, Letkhohao, and Lamminsoi.

On March 18, Professor

Gangmumei Kamei of the BJP, Chungkhokai Doungel of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Mani Charenamei (Independent), and Kim Gangte, All India Trinamool Congress (AITC) filed their nomination papers on March 19.

For the Inner Parliamentary Constituency, only one candidate, Manipur Democratic Peoples’ Front, Dr. G. Tonsana Sharma has filed nomination paper before the Returning Officer, K. Radhakumar, Imphal West deputy commissioner.

The last date for filing nomination papers for the Inner Parliamentary constituency is March 26 and scrutiny will be the following day. The last date of withdrawal is March 29.

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Maring students allege AR torture IMPHAL, MArcH 21 (NNN): The Maring Students Union (MSU) has alleged harassment and torture meted out to innocent villagers of Kampang Khullen village of Chandel district by the Assam Rifles on the evening of March 15. Strongly condemning the incident, MSU general secretary, D P Morung, stated that even women were not spared from the atrocities and two villagers were reportedly left seriously injured.

The two seriously injured persons were identified as one Kh Konai (50), son of (L) Kh Meshil, and Kh Leiupa (32), son of (L) Kh Merung. Some of names of the other persons injured after the incident are – Dk Komar (38), son of (L) DK Morung, DK Angrung (36), son of (L) DK Morung, Kh Angkha (36), son of (L) Kh Merung, and DK Angtha (45), son of (L) Dk Morung.

According to the Maring student body, the incident happened three days after Revolutionary Peoples Front/Peoples Liberation Army (RPF/PLA) made an attack on the Assam Rifles. MSU questioned the motive of the RPF/PLA in attacking the Assam Rifles in the vicinity of the village, and stated that the incident showed pre-planned motive of the armed militants to disturb the peaceful atmosphere of the Naga inhabited areas.

MSU condemned the torture of innocent villagers who were also restricted from travelling in the inter vilAn Indian boy collects water from a well on the eve of World Water Day in Gauhati on Friday, lage roads by the Assam Rifles. “This brutal attack clearly March 21. World Water Day is observed annually on March 22 as a means to recognize the global need to save, conserve and manage water resources for future generations. (AP shows the timidity and irresponsibility of the security forces,” the union stated.

Photo)

NSCN-IM celebrates Republic Day in Chandel Assam seeks opinion to trim rhino horns Ruwngthung Hrangbung Chandel | March 21

The 34th Republic Day celebration of the Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim (GPRN/ NSCN-IM) was held today under the aegis of the Khurmi Region, Chandel district, at NSCN-IM’s designated camp Phunchung

in Chandel district with thousands of Naga Civilians and several leaders of Naga civil society organisations in attendance.

Capt Retd. Medar, Kilonser, GPRN, and D John, Deputy Kilonser, GPRN, graced the occasion as Chief Guest and Guest of Honour respectively. Public leaders, village chiefs,

representatives from Tribal Hohos, student bodies, NGOs, Church bodies, social workers including women, besides rank and file of the Naga Army, attended the celebration.

The chief guest unfurled the National Flag and delivered a speech from the Yaruiwo (President) of the organisation.

Chaplain of AC Battalion, Naga Army, Capt. Jesse, led the gathering in a silent prayer for the Martyrs.

Other highlights of the day included display of cultural items by cultural troupes of the district, declaration of ranks with awards, and speeches from representatives of the various civil society organisations.

Six convicted for gang rape in Meghalaya SHILLoNG, MArcH 21 (IANS): A fast-track court in Meghalaya Thursday convicted six people for the gang rape of an 18-year-old girl in December 2012.

Laston Marak, Tobath Sangma alias Patrick, Platon C. Marak, Chengchow D. Sangma, Kisen N. Marak and Chingkam Ch. Marak alias Chiong were convicted for raping the girl on the night of Dec 13, 2012 in Williamnagar, public pros-

ecutor P.L. Sebastian said.

The court, which had its sitting in Tura, the district headquarters of West Garo Hills, will pronounce its sentence March 24. Ten others in the case are juveniles and will be dealt with by the Juvenile Justice Board at Williamnagar, the district headquarters of East Garo Hills, Sebastian said.

The girl was gang-raped near a school when she along with two of

her female friends was on her way home after attending a festival in Williamnagar. The six were convicted for gang rape, causing hurt and wrongful restraint, and acts done by several people in furtherance of common intention.

Meghalaya, on an average, registers 257 criminal cases per month.

Crimes against women and children rose by 23 percent in 2013 compared to 2012.

GUWAHATI, MArcH 21 (TNN): The Assam government has sought opinion from the people on trimming rhino horns to save them from poachers. This year, poachers have killed 11 rhinos in the state and chopped off their horns. Two rhinos have been killed at Kaziranga National Park since Wednesday.

"We are seeking the opinion of people. I want to make it clear we are not talking of dehorning but trimming of horns, similar to trimming of hair,'' said forest minister Rockybul Hussain. "The trimmed horns will grow back to their original size in four to five months again. There will be no damage to internal organs of the animals nor will it lower their attraction, contrary to the belief of people."

The office of principal chief conservator of forests (wildlife) will receive feedback on the issue till March 31.

Hussain said a committee consisting of forest officials, representatives of WWF and veterinarians will hold a hearing and discuss the feasibility of rhino horn trimming to the state government. "The final decision will be taken by the government," he said.

He said the proposed trimming can't be done for the huge rhino population at Kaziranga National Park but elsewhere where the population is very low. He added horns of rhinos have been trimmed for the same reason in Africa.

In January, the Indian Rhino Vision (IRV) 2020 floated the idea of trimming rhino horns before translocating them to

is also worried as there is no waManipur Govt partment ter to douse fire in case of accidental fire in DELHI PUBLIC SCHOOL, DIMAPUR the residential areas.

(Under the aegis of Delhi Public School Society, New Delhi) concerned about (Shaping the future of your child everyday) lack of rainfall Myanmar weavers IMPHAL, MArcH 21 (THe HINdU): to train inmates of A strong hailstorm hit many parts of Manipur on Thursday night leaving a trail of deMizoram home struction mostly in the four valley districts.

2 ½ MILE, DAROGAPATHAR DIMAPUR: NAGALAND 797115 Phone: 03862-235930 Website: www.dpsdimapur.in email: dpsdmp@yahoo.co.in

The hailstorm started from 7.30 p.m. and lasted till 10.30 p.m. Vast areas of vegetables and fruit bearing trees were destroyed. The strong wind also blew away roofs of houses. Reports are that some houses had also been razed to ground.

However there is no report of casualty.

Farmers said that the downpour came as a sigh of relief to them since for months their fields have been parched. However, there was clear sky from Friday morning.

Since the rainfall was so scanty for the paddy and vegetable fields they cannot carry on with their cultivation.

Meanwhile, government sources said that since the water level is alarmingly low, supply of drinking water from different sources is stopped. The government notice was announced on March 19. As a result, there is a scarcity of potable water. Prices of bottled water were increased. Besides, the private suppliers who have been selling river water at Rs 100 per 500 litres have increased. What they supply is raw water which is made look clear using alum.

Government sources said that if there is no rainfall in the coming days, the state government will have to approach the union government for declaring Manipur as a drought hit state. The fire fighting de-

AIZAWL, MArcH 21 (TNN): A number of orphans and drug addicts, all inmates of a home run by Thutak Nunpuitu Team (TNT) at Zuangtui near Aizawl, will be trained at the Handloom Weaving Centre by two Myanmarese weavers. The Handloom Weaving Centre, jointly established

by TNT and the Amway Opportunity Foundation (AOF), was inaugurated on Tuesday

by G Malsawmdawngliana, joint director of industries (handloom and handicraft).

The weaving centre is equipped with 8 Myanmarese looms and three Indianmade looms installed at a cost of Rs 3 lakh funded by the AOF under its corporate social responsibility programme. Amway executive Bikramjit Paul said the weaving centre will serve as a skill-development centre and will be self-sustaining for the inmates of the home so that they find employment after leaving the home.

The AOF has also helped the students of the home by providing them school uniform, textbooks, drinking water and sanitation inside the home's premises. At present, the TNT home has 68 workers, 250 mentally challenged people and drug addicts, 420 orphans and 303 students. The home depends solely on donation from NGOs, individuals and churches.

Stars don’t glitter in Manipur

IMPHAL, MArcH 21 (THe HINdU): For quite some time, some national political parties have been bringing in a few Bollywood film actors to Manipur on the eve of some elections in the hope that it would ensure large attendance in the election meetings. However, in almost all cases the movers and shakers of the national parties were disappointed and indications are that this time they will not be bringing such super stars to attract the voters to the election meetings.

On one occasion, a national party which was preparing a public meeting in Imphal had spread a rumour tendentiously that the super star of the Hindi film world Amitabh Bachhan would be coming to

Saturday

address the meeting. Once it became clear that he would not be coming and that they had been taken for a ride, the people who had come for a glimpse of the film star were not much keen to listen to the state and national leaders of the party left in a huff.

One woman BJP candidate was in the fray against the Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh in the last Assembly elections. The party brought Hema Malini for addressing a public meeting. However, this film actor who was once the dream girl of the people failed to wield her magic wand. There was thin attendance even by the standard of Manipur. And they could not understand what she was saying since Hindi

is Greek to the Manipuris.

There was disappointment all around and indications are that the BJP shall not be bringing Hema Malimi and other film actors to Manipur this time.

All these are because of the fact that in Manipur the stars and super stars of the Hindi films are strangers to the young generation who are the vote banks in the state. The Revolutionary People's Front and its military wing the People's Liberation Army had banned the Hindi films and songs from Manipur for ever.

This is in protest against the alleged bludgeoning to death of a ranking leader of the Revolutionary People's Front after being overpowered by the security personnel. There was

a high level meeting of the leaders of the outfit somewhere in Imphal when the security personnel raided the house where they were congregating.

All these years, there has been no Hindi film and song in Manipur. Instead, the people have been depending on South Korean and South Indian films which are on open sale in the state. As a counter move, the union government had opened a music channel in the All India Radio, Imphal so that the youth are not separated from the national language.

However, there is not much popularity. In absence of films being screened in the cinema halls, there is no charm and enthusiasm among the boys and girls.

REGISTRATION FORMS AVAILABLE FOR Std XI BRIDGE COURSE - 2014 (Science/Arts/Commerce)

Eligibility : Class X-2014 appearing/appeared students. (expecting 60% and above) For details contact school office between 9:00 am to 2:00 pm on all working days.

Principal

Laokhowa-Burachapori Wildlife Sanctuary in Nagaon district this year.

The IRV 2020 is a joint programme of the state forest department, WWF-India, International Rhino Foundation and various other partner NGOs. The programme envisages increase on Assam's rhino population to 3,000 by 2020 by wild-to-wild translocation from Kaziranga National Park and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary to Manas and Dibru Saikhowa national parks, as well as Laokhowa-Burachopari Wildlife Sanctuary.

LOST LOST NOTICE NOTICE I, E. Chenithung Ezung am applying for a duplicate copy of marksheet of Class-10 as have lost it.

Name: E. Chenithung Ezung F/ Name: Y. Ekyimsao Ezung Roll No: 0870032 DOB: 15th May 1990 School: Christian Model High School, Wokha, Nagaland.

Year: 2008 Batch

FOR AUCTION Mahindra Bolero Jeep In running condition Model: LX 4WD Year: 2007 For Details Contact: World Vision India Mon ADP, Dimapur Office Tel. No.: 235105/230300 8575757338

AFFIDAVIT I, Shri D.N.Rai son of Shri Janah Dhari Rai aged 60 residing at Chozuba do hereby solemnly affirm and declare as under: 1. That my name earlier was Devki Nandan Rai 2. That I have changed my name as D.N.Rai on Oct 21st 1983 3. At present all the records have my new name D.N.Rai. 4. I state that both Devki Nandan Rai and D.N.Rai is the name of one and the same person.

Deponent

Solemnly sworn and affirmed on this 13th day of March 2014 at Chozuba.

1st Class Magistrate Chozuba, Phek Dist., Nagaland

C M Y K

4 local/public discoursE clubs launched SBI donates computers to schools Farmers’ in Mon district Saturday

Dimapur

The Morung Express

22 March 2014

DIMAPUR, MARCH 21 (Mexn): As part of its corporate social responsibility, State Bank of India (SBI) Dimapur on Friday distributed computer sets including printers to 12 schools in and around Dimapur.

Speaking as the chief guest, General Manager SBI, Farooque Shahab said that the Bank sets aside 1 % of its annual profit to carry out its corporate social responsibility through which different institutions get water purifiers, fans, computer sets etc.

He said such activities were a part of the Bank’s initiative to get closer to the public.

He said donating computer sets to schools this time was another initiative of getting connected with the younger generation.

Farooque revealed that the annual profit of SBI across the country for the year 2013-14 was Rs 14, 000 Crore and accordingly the Bank was utilizing Rs 140 Crore which is 1 % of its annual profit to carry out various activities of social responsibility.

If the profit continues to grow, the Bank is planning to increase the present 1% to 2% from its annual profit for the purpose of reaching out to the people, Farooque added.

Students from Herbert Spencer School, Vidya Bhavan and Hope Academy presented special numbers during the programme General Manager SBI, Farooque Shahab (right) handing over a computer attended by school students, school repre- monitor to one of the school representatives at Town Hall, Dimapur on sentatives and SBI officials.

Friday.

Mon, MARCH 21 (DIPR): Launching cum base level orientation and training programme of Farmers’ Club was held on March 20 at KVK office, Aboi with K. Vaiphei, Manager, NABARD Nagaland Regional Office, Dimapur as the expert.

While formally launching 10 Farmers’ Clubs of the district, the resource person, K. Vaiphei stressed on historical background of NABARD and its role for development of farmers. Briefing on the role of Farmers’ Club, he stressed on disseminating five principles of ‘Development through Credit’ as such, Utilization of credit with the most suitable methods of science and technology, Respecting the terms and conditions of the credit, Work must be done with skill to increase production and productivity, Saving of the additional income from the credit, and Timely recovery of loan installment so as to recycle credit.

Emphasizing on the objectives of the Farmers’ Club, he said its objective was to create an appropriate climate in the villages for

proper utilization of credit for the rural development process and timely recycling of funds. In order to achieve the target, he stated, awareness of the masses through Farmers’ Club is required and appealed them to organize capacity building of the farmers which the NABARD would reimburse the expenditure of the training and also urged them to liaison with other development agencies. He also informed on the support and assistance rendered by NABARD to the Farmers’ Club and spoke on the mission, features and functions of the club. He also imparted training on commodity trading for farmers (Forward Market Commission).

Earlier, welcome address was proposed by Dr. M.S.Sachan, SMS (Genetics & Plant Breeding) KVK, Mon while vote of thanks was proposed by Puchuno, SMS (Agronomy) KVK, Mon. The programme was chaired by Dr. Ruokuovilie, Programme Coordinator, KVK, Mon (Aboi). Farmers club, farmers friends and SHGs attended the launching and training programme.

Farmers-scientist interaction in Dimapur

DIMAPUR, MARCH 21 (Mexn): Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) -Dimapur on March 17 conducted a Farmers-Scientist interaction at ATMA training hall, DAO office, LRC Colony. Topics relevant to the present context of agriculture in Dimapur district were delivered by resource persons.

Asen walling, Technical Officer from ICAR, Jharnapani spoke on the topic “Farmer’s Mobile Advisory Service”. She stressed that the mobile service will help farmers get timely information on management of crop and livestock through the messages farmers receive from the centre, as climate

change has a strong influence on the metabolism of crop and livestock, stated a press release issued by DAO & PD (ATMA), Dimapur.

I Panger, Member Secretary & CEO, Nagaland State Agriculture Marketing Board (NSAMB) spoke on the topic “agriculture marketing”, its scope and importance. He said agriculture produce marketing under NSAMB facilitate the farmers to sell their farm produce and also to preserve their commodities at the godown at a nominal price.

Meanwhile, Dr. Anamika, Programme Co-ordinator, KVK, Jarnapani dwelt on “Value addition on

soyabean”. She highlighted that soya bean can be processed by different domestic scale method like biscuits, energy drink, noodles, soya-flour.

Such nutritious product of soyabean will meet the needy population at an affordable cost, she added.

The inaugural programme was chaired by Janet Chishi, Deputy Project Director. Welcome address was delivered by S. Bendangtemsu, DAO & Project Director, and vote of thanks was delivered by Tonikali, Deputy Project Director. Altogether, 60 farmers, AMC & BTT members of ATMA Dimapur from all four blocks participated.

Amway India Enterprise today organised “Spring Amway Beauty Spa Workshop” in its Dimapur Office for the distributors and customers. The programme was conducted by Janbeni Yanthan, Nagaland State Trainer, Amway India and about 45 women participated in the workshop and exvisit of the farmer friends, approval of FIAC centre, RKVY site perienced Amway’s Artistry Skin Care range - one of the world’s leading brand in facial skincare and colour cosmetics. selection/verification and approval thereof.

ATMA Peren governing board meeting held

Meeting of governing board meeting of ATMA Peren being held in the chamber of DC Peren, Tuesday.

PeRen, MARCH 21 (Mexn): The meeting of the governing board for ATMA Peren was held in the office chamber of Deputy Commissioner Peren, Peter Lichamo, on March 18. Henry Zeliang, DAO & PD, ATMA Peren, who chaired the meeting, presented a brief highlight of the meeting. DC Peren proposed the welcome address. Agendas discussed in the meeting were constitution of the governing body, re-

During the meeting all concern HODs of the departments agreed to include one NGO representatives, from the Zeliangrong Baudi and one from the Zeliang Mipui as member into the governing body of ATMA Peren The house decided to approve Nchangram/Azailong village, Nikio B/Old Soget/Singjol village and Phaijol/Lilen village under the RKVY projects 2013-14 under Peren.

The house also decided to visit the selected RKVY, a centrally sponsored project, sites after the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls. Respective HODs of all allied departments have been asked to present their propose activities during the visit. The meeting also resolved that the departmental activities will be carried out in consultation through the village council. The tentative dates have been fixed on April 15 and 16 for visit to the selected village as mentioned above.

_

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 # 2826

ATMA Chessore block conducts training

TUensAng, MARCH 21 (Mexn): ATMA Chessore block in Tuensang conducted training, demonstration and inauguration of Naga king chilli farm school at Sotokur village on March 14 and 15.

According to a press release, Luntsube SCA and BTT convenor inaugurated the farm school and delivered the keynote address. Resource persons Imlisunep Ajem, BTM and Yinsoba, farmer friend and cardamom farm school teacher deliberated and demonstrated on cultivation of mushroom, cardamom, Naga king chilli, pit digging and spacing for banana and methods of preparing Naga king chilli. Management practices of insect pest of some important vegetables were also demonstrated. Altogether 36 farmers attended the programme.

DAILY CROSS WORD

CROSSWORD # 2836

Impotent Education Department??

T

he Education department has forced its way landing into another controversy yet again. Whatever their feeble excuse or justification is, for cancellation of RMSA Teachers’ recruitment exam, is unjustifiable, illogical and absurd. The less said the better about the messed department. Almost every morning, we see the front page of local dailies, flashed with controversies associated with education department.

To make the story short, let’s look at and ponder on some few candid questions:1. If Lok Sabha election is the reason for exam cancellation? Then when does the Election Commissioner announce the Election Schedule? Do we need some Estein or Aryabhatta alike to man the department to chalk out the convenient date of exam?

Even a rustic, the illiterate farmers knows well of how to chalk out his convenient cropping, festivals and rituals schedules.

2. Who really make the policy decisions in the department? Are the Directors, Addl. Directors, Joint Directors, Deputy Directors etc, for whom crores of rupees are spent, of any worth?

• Why can’t they even decide the mere convenient exam date?

• If exam is to be cancelled why at least not before a week or two?

3. Why playing football with educated unemployed careers? Is the fate of 2 (two) Naga M.P.s, who will start looting public funds once won, and who will be more concerned about their personal comfort, luxuries and Selfaggrandizement, really more important than the fate and career of lakhs of unemployed young Nagas.

4. Isn’t exam cancellation amount to ‘slap on the faces of educated unemployed Nagas’?

Isn’t the exam cancellation implies the casual attitude and treatment meted to educated employed section? What about the travel expenses and wastage of time and energy of students, especially the rural lots? Will the department ever spare some bit of thought about that?

5. What about late and shortage of school text book supply? What about the teachers’ salary (Under CSS)? What about what not’s? Are the funds from Centrally Sponsored Schemes (SSA, RMSA, etc) really meant for poll expenditure of politicians or the certain political parties.

Is there anybody listening?

“LONG LIVE QUALITY EDUCATION IN NAGALAND” Kudukhoto Tetseo President, Phek Town Chakhesang Students’ Union.

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 Apollo Hospital Info Centre: Railway: Indian Airlines Chumukedima Fire Brigade Nikos Hospital and Research Centre Nagaland Multispecialty Health & Research Centre

Answer Number # 2825

KOHIMA

Police Control Room: North Police Station: South Police Station: Fire Brigade: Naga Hospital: Oking Hospital: Bethel Nursing Home:

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

Northeast Shuttles

100/2244279 2222222 2222111 2222952 2222916 2243339 2224202

R

DoNkey koNG

BLASTOISE

MICHAEL JORDAN

BULBASAUR

PIDGEOTTO

BUTTERFREE

PIKACHU

CACA

RAYQUAZA

CARMELOANTHONY

REGIGIGAS

CHARIZARD

REGIROCK

CHARMANDER

REGISTEEL

CHARMELEON

RESHIRAM

CRESSELIA

SANDSHREW

EKANS

SHAYMIN

GIRATINA

STEVE

IVYSAUR

STEVE NASH

JASON ROJAS

TERRAKION

JIGGLYPUFF

THUNDURUS

JOSEPH ROJAS

UXIE

JOSEPH RULES

VILEPLUME

JULIAN ROJAS

VULPIX

KOBE BRYANT

WEEDLESHAYMIN

LANDORUS

(SKY)

MANAPHY

WIGGLYTUFF

MEW

ZEKROM

D N A R J O S E P H R U L E S N L D U J G U

O M I C H A E L J O R D A N U O R H R I Y

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E L R A D L E P E A L S A R Y E T H K H T O

B F U C T S A W S E I N H K M E I I U I A

A R Q A I S N R T P Y S S S J R R P N N S

S E Y C E E A P E L N B D ( B R A J D A F

A T A A Y L M A V U O H N N L A M A U E P

U T R J I I A D E M H S A I A K W S R E L

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R U E O J A C E O E T A S M S I W O U J E

C H A B T I C H A S E P U L I L A N H A R K O B S A G O T T N A O N E V R E G Y A H T O I O N Z I G G N R O S H A I G G E T S

C R V R H A D M E I O L E I S S E L J Y L I

I Y M R N O E B G E E T R E E K Y A M Y G

Z S A O R R L R I G M S O L X R T S I P E

H A A N J O U E Y G D R O C D T O U E N U R

R U D A J S O A E I A I K E K M F A A F H

D R E S A A N N R P C I P E T E F T A F E

ACROSS

E N R E S A G T Y E O A N W V U L P I X V

1. Hebrew unit of weight 6. Gown 10. Part of an ear 14. Potato state 15. Website addresses 16. Found on a finger 17. Flora 19. Infiltrator 20. Hard glossy coating 21. East southeast 22. Therefore 23. Kings of the jungle 25. Attempts 26. Collections 30. Nuclear 32. Phonograph record 35. Xylophone 39. High regard 40. Resisted 41. Hopelessness 43. Made less in size 44. Layers 46. Young girl 47. Anagram of “Smite” 50. Lava 53. Colored part of an eye 54. A law enforcement agency 55. Make imperfect

60. Annoying insect 61. Loyalty 63. Not there 64. A noble gas 65. Faint 66. Russian emperor 67. Makes a mistake 68. Tilt

DOWN 1. Donate 2. Biblical garden 3. Indian music 4. Throat-clearing sound 5. Inn 6. Furrow 7. The far east 8. Flower 9. Feudal worker 10. Pitiless 11. New Zealand native 12. Cause to leak 13. Margarines 18. Former boxing champ 24. Paddle 25. Exhausted 26. Hurried 27. If not 28. Makes lace 29. Daughter of a stepparent

31. Fabricated 33. Nipples 34. Arab chieftain 36. Flexible mineral 37. Honey insects 38. Contributes 42. Wanderer 43. A small piece of cloth 45. Seamster 47. Strength 48. Sea eagles 49. Crown 51. Russian fighter 52. Awry 54. A temple (archaic) 56. Part of a rachet 57. Dwarf buffalo 58. Computer symbol 59. Lease 62. N N N N Ans to CrossWord 2835

CHUMUKEDIMA: 03862-282777/101 (O) WOKHA: 03860-242215 (O) 9402643782 MOKOKCHUNG: 0369-2226225/101 (O) 9856872011 (OC) PHEK: 03865-223838/101 (O) 9436012949 (OC)

MON: 03869-290629/101 (O) 9856248962/ 9612805461 (OC)

Toll free No. 1098 childline

O

DIMAPUR: 03862-232201/101 (O) 9436601225 (OC)

TUENSANG: 03861-220256/101 (O) 8974322879

CHILD WELFARE COMMITTEE

W

KOHIMA: 0370-2222952/101 (O) 9436062098 (OC)

ZUNHEBOTO: 03867-220444/101 (O) 9856158740 (OC)

08974997923

MOKOKCHUNG:

FIRE STATIONS

STD CODE: 0369

Police Station 1: Police Station 2 :

2226241 2226214

Civil Hospital: Woodland Nursing Home: Hotel Metsüpen (Tourist Lodge):

2226216 2226263 2226373/2229343

TAHAMzAM (formerly Senapati) STD CODE: 03871 Police Station: Fire Brigade

222246 222491

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For details & Test drive Contact: Urban Station, Near NSC Petrol Pump, 6th Mile Dimapur. Ph No : 240994 CURRENCY EXCHANGE CURRENCY NOTES BUY(Rs) SELL(Rs) US Dollars Sterling Pound Hong Kong Dollar

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LOCAL

The Morung Express

Saturday 22 March 2014

Kaito on status of Rengma Nagas in KA Our Correspondent Kohima | March 21

Minister for home, Gaito Aye while replying to MLA Dr. Imtiwapang Aier during the second day of the fourth session of NLA on the present status of Rengma Nagas living in Karbi Anglong (Assam) today stated that normalcy has been restored in the troubled torn areas and displaced people were rehabilitated in their respective villages.

On being asked whether any talks have been held with the Government of Assam, the home minister stated that the Government of Nagaland has appealed to both the conflicting parties to restrain from provocative activities and co-exist in peace.

He added that chief minister has requested Chief Minister of Assam to re-settle the displaced Rengma Nagas and ensure that all relief and rehabilitation process reach out.

Aye also stated that the chief minister of Nagaland has written D.O letters to Prime Minister of India and Union Home minister drawing their kind attention on the plight of the Rengma Nagas living in Assam.

Improvement of dist HQ roads Replying to question raised

by MLA. K. Khekaho Assumi, minister for roads and bridges Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu stated that the improvement of the district HQ roads and town roads is proposed to be taken up in a phased manner as per the fund

availability/allocation during the district administration to operati- lakhs have been sanctioned from istrative report 2013-14 of the departments of finance, personnel GoI for the year 2013-14. nalize the ISBT at the earliest. coming financial years. & administrative reforms, state HPC on screening entrepreneurs Fund received from GoI under institute of rural development, VDB taxpaying households department of under developed RGGVY during 2008-13 for claim of transport subsidy in Nagaland Parliamentary secretary for areas, new & renewable energy On the latest finding/report Parliamentary secretary for rural development C. L. John of the High Power Committee on power, Kipili Sangtam while re- and food & civil supplies on the while replying to MLA C. Apok screening the entrepreneurs for plying to MLA Tokheho said that floor of the House.

Minister for home G. Kaito Jamir said that there are 2,27,917 claims of central subsidy raised the Government of India has VDB taxpaying households in by MLA SI Jamir in starred ques- sanctioned Rs. 27,009.83 lakhs Aye laid a copy of the Nagaland the state and there are 1,175 Vil- tion, minister for industries & under the RGGSY scheme cover- Police Telecommunication Orlage Development Boards in the commerce S. Pangnyu Phom ing all districts during 10th & 11th ganization Subordinate Service state. The amount is allotted @ stated that re-verification of the plan. He also furnished copy of Rules, 2013. He also laid a copy of the annual administrative report of the home department.

Minister for PHE Noke laid a copy of annual administraRs. 66,000 fixed for VDBs having pre-audited list furnished by the total amount released/expendi- tive report 2013-14 of the public 66 households or below and Rs. Ministry was taken up and car- ture incurred district wise from health engineering department 1000 per household for 67 house- ried out as the Ministry of Com- 2008-09 to 2012-13. He stated (PHED). The annual report of holds or above. He also stated that merce required submission of that payment is made to Turnkey Nagaland State Mineral Develop7% service charge is deducted out additional items like photograph Contractors through a/c payee ment Corporation Limited for the of the amount allocated. Fund for of the promoter, the unit, photo cheque by the department, re- year 2002-2003, 2003-04, 2004the current financial year 2013-14 and signature of verifying offi- ceipt secured by division office. 05, 2005-06 and 2006-07 including annual administrative recer and compliance with the 44 is yet to be released. checklist. The re-verification was Total fund received from GOI port of planning & coordination, evaluation and geology & mining completed in February 2014 end under ICDP during 2009-14 ISBT at Yimyu Parliamentary secretary for was laid by minister for planning Parliamentary secretary for only. The SLC is in the process of transport P. Paiwang Konyak examining of re-verified claims. cooperation Pukhayi Sumi re- & coordination, evaluation, geolstated that construction of ISBT He added that out of 489 claims, plying to MLA Tokheho Yeptho- ogy & mining T.R. Zeliang.

Parliamentary secretary for at Yimyu, Mokokchung was com- 367 claims have fulfilled the crite- mi stated that a total fund of Rs. pleted during 2011 and inaugu- ria while 122 have been rejected 3347.54 lakhs have been sanc- veterinary & animal husbandry rated on August 1, 2011. Replying for being non-functional/un- tioned from GoI under Integrated Yitachu, parliamentary secretary this to MLA Dr. Imtiwapang Aier, traceable or inability to comply Cooperative Development Proj- for power C. Kipili Sangtam, parect (ICDP) scheme during the liamentary secretary for higher Paiwang said that just after inau- with the 44 checklist. period 2009-10 to 2013-14. Fund education & SCERT Deo Nukhu, guration, the department put all sanctioned for district wise: Di- parliamentary secretary for ecoout efforts to operationalise the Up-gradation of new schools mapur- Rs. 1766.34 lakhs, Mon- nomics & statistics, excise, legal ISBT at Yimyu by positioning re- approved under RMSA Minister for school educa- Rs. 785.10 lakhs and Zunheboto- metrology & consumer protection quired manpower and vehicles.

Torechu, and parliamentary secreHowever, due to non-cooper- tion, CM Chang stated that 21 Rs. 796.10 lakhs. tary for co-operation, women deation from the travelling pas- new schools have been approved velopment and sericulture Pukhayi sengers and private operators it under RMSA during 2013-14. Rio lays AAR of finance, Sumi also laid their respective decould not be operationalized till Replying this to MLA Tokheho SIRD, DUDA, NRE, F&CS Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio partment annual administrative date. He said that the department Yepthomi in starred question, is consistently pursuing with the the minister said that Rs. 506.44 laid a copy each of annual admin- report for the year 2013-14.

Second day of fourth NLA session

Rio never invited by centre for discussion on Naga political issue Our Correspondent Kohima | March 21

Chief Minister, Neiphiu Rio today stated that in his 11 years as Chief Minister of Nagaland, he and his cabinet have not been invited at any point by the Government of India to discuss on Naga political issue. Rio said this in the assembly session here today.

The chief minister said that he was informed from the reliable sources that Manipur chief minister and Arunachal chief minister were called for consultation by GoI, but he as chief minister of Nagaland was never invited for discussion on Naga political issue.

Responding to the remark made

by CLP leader Tokheho Yepthomi that he has not been honest to the people and told him to be honest to the people, Rio said he has been honest to the people of Nagaland and DAN government too works “honestly,” for which it won the election for three consecutive terms and he is serving as chief minister for 3rd term. He, however, said that UPA was not honest to them.

Rio said the Joint Legislature Forum comprising of 60 legislators

of the NLA resolved to pursue together to the vexed Naga political issue for early settlement, adding that DAN government is playing as an active facilitator.

Rio said that it will continue to pursue for early settlement of the Naga political problem, adding that it is the prayer and wish of the Naga people that early settlement will come, where the people live in peace and pursue developmental activities and bring peace and prosperous Nagaland.

CLP leader Tokheho Yepthomi said GoI must be updating the status of the peace talk to the chief minister of Nagaland, adding that at least some information should be given to this House.

Earlier, in response to question raised by Tokheho on the present status of political negotiation between GoI and Naga political groups, home minister, G.Kaito Aye said that the the state government is not a party to the negotiations.

“The latest information is that political negotiation is not carried forward now due to nonappointment of interlocutor by Government of India,” the home minister said.

ry requirement for the SSA teachers for one year is Rs 82.00 Crores. Out of which an approximate amount of Rs 59.00 crores has been spent on salary during 2013-14 and an amount of Rs 23.00 crores is required for payment of the pending salary including arrears,” the department informed.

It stated that the department is anticipating release of the 2nd installment by the GOI for the current year within the month. The due salary and arrears will be released immediately on receipt from the GOI, however, it stated that a specific date cannot be assured. It further said that this was made known to the delegation of the Teachers on March 13, when they had met Department officials in the presence of the General Secretary ANSTA. On the other points raised by the teachers, i.e.

Job security and service condition etc, the school education department said that these are issues to be addressed under relevant Service Rules and existing Government regulations and “may not be combined with the salary issue.”

5

MEx FILE Hukavi accuses DAN III Kohima, march 21 (mExN): Congress MLA Hukavi today stated that DAN III started without work programme and termed it as a “serious matter.” Participating in the debate on the motion of thanks to the Governor’s Address in the ongoing assembly session here today, he alleged that there is full of corruption and no equality. “We have social unrest, political unrest, economic unrest, development unrest,” he said. He stated that developments are not visible for which people are suffering day by day. This government, he said, is not in position to solve the problem.

ZVYSO resolves to uphold ban on hunting, burning of jungles Kohima, march 21 (mExN): The new office bearers of Zhadima Village Youth & Sports Organization (ZVYSO) for the tenure 2014-16 headed by President Vitseizolie Soru and General Secretary Thepfulie Theunuo has unanimously resolved to uphold the directives of the Angami Youth Organization (AYO) and Northern Angami Youth Organization (NAYO) to strictly ban hunting, burning of jungles, extraction of medicinal plants, deforestation and other related activities leading to destruction and deterioration of the ecosystem within the jurisdiction of Zhadima village. The Organization in a press release informed that it will hereafter serve no information regarding these directives and any person found violating the above directives will be punitively punished and penalized befittingly.

PPRI Kalyan Benerjee to visit Kohima Kohima, march 21 (DiPr): Rtn. Kalyan Benerjee, Past President Rotary International (PPRI) will be on an official visit to Kohima on March 22 from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. The visit is in connection with the Rotary Project on Education and Literacy which is a countrywide programme. He will be meeting the Governor of Nagaland and appointment with the Chief Minister and Minister for Education are awaited. The project will be carried out in partnership with State Government and community organisations. He will also be interacting with the public at 3:00 pm at the Heritage Hall. Therefore, educationists, community leaders, students, women organisation are invited to the interactive session. He will be accompanied by Past District Governor Rtn. Kalpan Khound, Present District Governor 3240, Rtn. Arijit Endow and other dignitaries which include PDG Ajit Irom, PDG Kirti Dey, AG Chandu, AG Pramod Jain, PAG Rtn. Panesar.

CBCC pastors’ training DimaPur, march 21 (mExN): The Chakhesang Baptist Church Council (CBCC) pastors’ training will be held from March 25 to 27, 2014 (Tuesday – Thursday) at Chakhesang Baptist Church Diphupar ‘B’, 5th Mile Dimapur. The CBCC Pastors’ Fellowship president further informed all concerned that one of its members’ ordination service will be held on the first day, i.e.

March 25 at 1:00 pm.

KDCC adopts resolutions

The scene at Kirha Village: Workers are seen here making a new house. A major fire broke out on Tuesday, March 18, gutting around 13 houses. The cause of the fire remains unknown. Property believed to be worth around Rs 30 Lakhs was damaged by the fire.

Don Bosco Dimapur prays for missing MH370 DimaPur, march 21 (mExN): The students, staff and parents of Don Bosco Higher Secondary School, Dimapur have taken an initiative to let know the friends and family members of the passengers of missing Malaysian Airlines MH370 that they are remembered in prayers daily for finding the missing plane.

According to a press release, on March 20 and 21, the principal made a prayer appeal for grieving family members and friends of the passengers and crew of the missing plane, whose location still remains a mystery since it went missing on March 8, after taking off from Kuala Lumpur and was expected to reach Beijing Cap-

ital International Airport.

The “Bosconians” have put up a Prayer Wall in the school, on which the students, teachers, parents and management have inscribed their messages, prayers and support for the victims of Malaysian Airplane. The school prayed to the Almighty that the bereaved families find solace and consolation.

DoSE appeals for SSA No society can remain static: Temsula Ao teachers to call off stir Kohima, march 21 (mExN): The Department of School Education, Nagaland today appealed to the SSA teachers boycotting classes to call off their stir and resume duties for the welfare of the students.

In a press release, the department clarified that the SSA Teachers have been paid up to the month of November 2013 and salary for the month of December 2013 is in the process of release. “Therefore the actual pending salary for release is for the months of January and February 2014 only,” it stated.

It informed that the GOI had released an amount of Rs 9803.02 lakhs during 2013-14, in the form of adhoc Release and 1st Installment. This amount is to be spent for recurring and non recurring expenditure and is not for payment of salary alone, it said. The note added that the funding pattern for the programme is on a ratio of 90% GOI and 10% State Government. It stated that the state government has released 100% of its share, which has been utilized for payment of salary.

“The approximate sala-

Dimapur

TSEmiNYu, march 21 (mExN): “No society can remain static or untouched by the changes that time brings,” asserted Dr Temsula Ao, Chairperson of the Nagaland State Commission for Women (NSCW). She was addressing a gathering at the seminar on ‘Legal rights of women in marriage, divorce and inheritance and health education – HIV/ AIDS,’ organized by the NSCW at Tseminyu on March 20.

Dr Temsula stated that “we derive our being and identity in the continuity and strength of customary

laws and traditional practices.” “This is what marks us as Nagas in the collective sense,” she added. She further acknowledged that, “we are living under a new dispensation called the state of Nagaland, where both men and women are supposed to be governed equally under the provisions of laws adopted by the state.” However, she lamented that “in many instances,” when it comes to the question of marriage, divorce and inheritance, “customary laws are invoked, which are more often than not, detrimental for the woman.”

She further viewed

that there “are variations or even contradictions in these traditional laws among the various Naga tribes,” which according to Dr Temsula, “pose serious problems when there is an inter-tribe marriage.”

She stressed on the need to address these issues through consultations and appealed to all, especially the male-dominated Hohos, to incorporate the necessary amendments, so that “anomalies regarding women’s rights in the old laws may be removed” and due rights given to women in these matters.

The Rengma Hoho,

Rengma Mothers’ Association, Dobashis, Gaonburas, Rengma Officers Forum, Rengma Students’ Union and representative of units of Rengma Mothers’ Association from nearby villages participated in the event.

ADC Tseminyu, Vikhenuo delivered the welcome address. The programme was chaired by Kakheli Jakhalu, Member of the Commission and Asangla Cholong, Member NSCW thanked all the participants on behalf of the Commission. The programme concluded with a vote of thanks from the Rengma Mothers’ Association President, Kelisha.

Team Metamorphosis supports SSA teachers WoKha, march 21 (mExN): Team Metamorphosis Wokha, in its general meeting on March 17, after a lengthy discussion, unanimously decided to support the SSA teachers who are agitating against the “malpractices of the government.” The organization in a press statement issued by its chief questioned as to how the government can be “so unjust”. “How can it hold up the salaries which are due to the dedicated teachers

who deserve what they’ve earned with the sweat of their brow,” it added.

“Since the teachers are not given even their mere salary which they totally deserve, they are democratically & legally right in their fight for justice,” the Team stated. “But, on the other hand, the students are losing their precious days.”

In all these, it questioned, “Is the government building the society or destroying it? Will the govern-

ment of Nagaland be able to bear the responsibility if situation goes out of hand?

Will the innocent people always bear all the brunt?”

As the SSA teachers “democratically agitate for justice against the unjust government,” the Team Metamorphosis stated it will extend its fullest cooperation till justice is delivered. The organization further urged the government to seriously consider the situation and release the salaries at the earli-

est “as many families have borrowed enough rice to feed the hungry children, many children schools fees still not paid besides hundreds of SSA students’ career hampered.” The younger generation, it asserted, “is totally fed up with the unjust practices of the corrupted govt. officials as well as others who are in the power chairs.

Irrespective of tribe, clan and color, young Nagas shall strive for a just and corruption free society.”

Kohima, march 21 (mExN): Kohima District Congress Committee (KDCC) held a meeting on March 21 at Congress Bhavan and adopted several resolutions. In order to have a better coordination for the forthcoming Lok Sabha Election, the house appointed planning committee and fund mobilization committee consisting of three members each. The meeting also resolved to distribute the booklet “11 years of NPF misrule in Nagaland under Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio” to every household, offices and colleges. The house also requested the right thinking citizens to extend cooperation and attend the proposed election rally to be addressed by AICC vice president Rahul Gandhi in Kohima. The meeting also resolved to work with dedication and commitment for the sure success of KV Pusa, Congress candidate and appealed to all the right thinking citizens to rise above party colour and vote for Congress party for a better change in Nagaland.

Dimapur polling officers’ training today DimaPur, march 21 (mExN): In connection with the ensuing Lok Sabha Elections 2014, training for the 2nd Polling Officers and 3rd Polling Officers of Dimapur district will be held on March 22 from 11:00 am at Dimapur Government College. Deputy Commissioner & District Election Officer, N Hushili Sema has directed all concerned to attend the training without fail.

Training schedule for Mokokchung polling officials moKoKchuNg, march 21 (DiPr): DC and Assistant Returning Officer, Mokokchung, Murohu Chotso has informed that training of 2nd and 3rd polling officers of Mokokchung district will be held at Mayangnokcha Government Higher Secondary School on March 24, while Presiding Officers and 1st Polling officers will be on March 25 at Town Hall, Mokokchung. He said training will be conducted from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm. The last and final training for all polling officials including IV Grade staff is scheduled on April 7, 2014. The DC directed all polling personnel to attend the training as per the schedule, failing which, disciplinary action will be initiated.

W. Wangyuh files nomination as INC stand-by candidate Kohima, march 21 (DiPr): W. Wangyuh filed his nomination as stand-by candidate of the INC for the forthcoming Lok Sabha elections at the Office of the Returning Officer, Nagaland Parliamentary Elections 2014, Temjen Toy, IAS, on March 21. W. Wangyuh's nomination was proposed by Asu Keyho.

Zunheboto medical board to sit on March 25 ZuNhEBoTo, march 21 (DiPr): Deputy Commissioner and ARO, Zunheboto, L. Akato Sema in a notification has informed that in view of the ensuing 16th Lok Sabha election, the Medical Board will have its sitting on March 25, 2014 in the office chamber of ADC Hq from 11 am onwards. Therefore, any polling officials assigned for election duty and have applied for medical case exemption, have been directed to appear before the Medical Board. No further cases will be entertained thereafter.

6 I

Naga Groups celebrate Republic Day Saturday | 22 march, 2014

‘All Nagas must unite to build a land of peace’

give my warmest greetings to all people of Nagalim on this auspicious Republic Day. It is a grand jubilee for us! We will no longer allow any powers, alien or domestic to rule over us. It is a historic change from the old system into the new one. The language of Republic as the world understands is that, the head of the government is to be elective not hereditary. Government of a people is the sacred business of the people, not the prerogative of a dynasty, an aristocratic circle, a privileged class or a hereditary king. Republic is the stamp of the Naga government.

NSCN will always uphold the republic of Nagalim.

Any political party or organization or council that be, is only a form without contents unless it is wedded to the trust of a people. NSCN has not only been faithful to the nation, but also the bulwark of the national trust. Our people know NSCN has never ever deserted the cause, but it has always stood the ground when the storm rocked the boat.

We hold fast to the national principle above gold and position for the reason that our national future lies in our national principle. As fruits come from the seed so our principle determines who we are. Our history, identity, culture and religion come from our principle, which is our root. Thousands of patriots have died as martyrs in defending the national principle. Thousands of NSCN cadres are fully prepared to defend it in days to come too. What do we have in our hand if our inherent universal right to self-determination is murdered? We will fall when our foundation falls.

Speech Of Isak Chishi Swu, Yaruiwo NSCN has introduced the culture of collective decision making in the set-up. This is one of the finest cultures that has been in practice in most of the Naga village-states. The culture of collective decision-making is the essence of our democracy.

We value our land and mineral resources as priceless because it is our lifeline. No one should gamble with land. Talking of politics without land is a wishful thinking. Our politics, history, culture and identity are rooted in our land. All wars in history were fought over land. Nagalim is our inheritance from the Lord. It is our hearth and grave. We are born and brought up here and we will die here.

We are deeply related to our land.

Every son and daughter of Nagalim must honor our land.

We trust in the God of universe.

He is the Centre of sovereign power, who rules both in heaven and on earth. Kingdoms come and go according to His will. We believe building of Nagalim apart from His word is a house of cards. We cannot exist independent of Him spiritually, politically, economically, socially and individually. To be independent of him is out of the track. God, land and people are inseparably interrelated and interdependent. Our revolutionary fathers laid the foundation of our land on the rock of the word of God. 'Nagalim for Christ' is the covenant of God with the Nagas, which we are made to understand that Nagalim is going to be a channel of world evangelization in this

last part of the century.

We strongly advocate for our social values that have been in practice since time immemorial. Nagas are community-oriented people.

The culture of sharing one's wealth with others; the culture of working together, eating together, dancing together, singing together in times of peace and the culture of fighting and defending together against the aggressors in times of war is ageless gold for us. The land holding system of private land, clans' land and the community land is what the political teachers call socialist economic spirit. This kind of socialist spirit sustains the world of the Nagas thus far. Based on this social ethos, NSCN has declared socialist economic pattern that can promote and protect the national economy of the Nagas.

The economy of Nagalim cannot be placed in the hand of a few social parasites.

We are deeply committed to seeking political solution to the longstanding Indo-¬Naga problem. And that, we are engaged in dialogue with the government of India for arriving at an honorable solution based on 'two entities', 'the unique history and situation of the Nagas.' Foundations for solution have been laid. Many rational people opine that 'a kind of solution that embraces all Naga territories and guarantees the future of the Nagas and the interests of India may be an option.' We will be faithful to our commitment. We know serious consequences naturally follow

when one goes back upon his word.

Indian leaders should not keep on playing trick on the future of millions of Nagas. We believe they too will be true to their word.

We know this is the world where one cannot live in total isolation from others. Nagas should not and cannot stay away from their neighboring people and nations. We must live together with them in harmonious interdependent relationship. However, if any dispute or problem arises, we would go for the option of settling the dispute through mutual understanding and discussion. We are for a negotiated settlement of our problem with India and Burma. Fighting kills people, but negotiation saves them.

War destroys kingdoms, but negotiation builds them. We believe in negotiation, not confrontation.

It is our declared stand that we will forgive and reconcile with our brothers in different factional camps in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. But it should be in the political line of the people in as much as it is political. It will be a futile exercise to unite with those people if they come with enemies' agenda. Playing trick on the reconciliation and unity move will be a serious political crime. All groups should be sincere and straightforward. To us, reconciliation process does not end with the factions. It will go to the people, our neighbors and enemies. We have to reconcile even with God. Reconciliation is a political necessity. All Nagas must unite to build a land of peace and prosperity and leave a bright future for the coming generations.

Kuknalim

‘We should not falter but remain committed to the cause’ Speech of Gen (Rtd) Khole Konyak, Chairman , GPRN/NSCN

D

ear countrymen and comrades On this auspicious day the 34th Republic Day Anniversary I wish to convey my greetings to every sons and daughters of Naga soil. I also thank god for sustaining us to this day despite every effort of our adversaries to sabotage and destroy our desire to live as free people.

Fellow Nagas, I candidly recall the days where educated Nagas were few, yet today we are fortunate to have enough educated and erudite Nagas who can compete with the rest of the world. The GPRN/NSCN has set objectives to every Naga and the outside world that we shall stand firm to our commitment of unity and reconciliation, for I believe that solution to the Naga political problem can never be achieved until we come together and contribute our share in the struggle, today’s political solution or any solution will depend on every individual’s commitment and determination. We should all realize that other people will not come to solve our problem.

Therefore I urge every Nagas to realize the futility of confining our self within the self erected penal complex and come out in the open and express your opinion without

any reservation.

On this day I also salute all the brave comrades who have valiantly sacrificed their precious life defending our cause, their names shall be remembered and recorded in the pages of Naga history. I also urge all GPRN/NSCN workers to be vigilant against the adversaries both within and without who spend sleepless nights to destroy our unity and integrity, at this crucial moment of the Naga history where groups and gangs of mercenaries have mushroomed in the guise of Naga nationalism, we should not falter but remain upright and committed to the cause and the goal.

The collective leaders will not hesitate to initiate punitive action upon any rank and file found tarnishing the image of the GPRN/ NSCN and defying the party discipline and the constitution.

At this stage of my life I am glad to be alive to see the Nagas moving forward in every field, yet it is also my desire to see all Nagas come together to decide our common future for the upcoming generation.

As we celebrate this republic day let us remember the past unity and glory and look beyond the horizon.

Kuknalim

‘Right and correct politics will bring freedom’

D

ear Naga people, I stand here on behalf of the Naga National Council to greet and salute all the Naga people in the homeland and abroad on this occasion of the Naga Republic Day of 22nd March 2014 as we observe and celebrate this auspicious Day with prayer to God Almighty.

The Naga people had declared Naga Republic fifty eight years ago on this Day of the Lord as National Government with a framed Naga Constitution in the name of God Almighty that we were and are a Nation. And we maintain this political stand till date.

The Naga National Council reiterate our stand once again

The Speech Of Z. Royam Yimchungrii The Acting President Of Naga National Council On The Occasion Of The Naga Republic Day On 22nd March 2014. that we spent for Naga Sovereignty covering all the Naga inhabitat areas of South-East Asian Region for recognition of political rights of the Nagas by India and Bruma (Myanmar) in particular and the community of nations in the world.

The Naga National principle stand of sovereignty must be defended at any cost by the National Workers instead of compromising by the vested interest factions or groups because this is the will of God

Almighty and we cannot compromise the sovereign rights of the Naga people in general and the National Workers in particular.

The Naga National Council have a clear political rights and mandate of the Naga people through the National Plebiscite of 1951 and also maintained the best policy of Non-Violence stand which is supported by one and all especially the outside world. The Naga National Council have a

big avenue in the International arena for political support only if we have the necessary resources to lobby and work to achieve our goal of political freedom.

The Naga people must also know that the Naga National Council have the best record as far as internal conflict and prevailing vices in the homeland is concerned by the grace of God Almighty.

Therefore, Naga people must support the right and

correct political stand which can convince the outside world for support at this juncture of confusion and crisis in the homeland.

Today, the Naga National Council reminded once again that the North-East people must unite in reality to liberate our people and land politically from the aggressor as we have seen enough that arrogant Indians will never, never respect nor care the North-East people as we are separate race

of Mongolian stock and this is our pride.

The Naga National Council is closely watching the world situation of present day happenings as we seen in the very recent time that the NorthEast are not in the map of India by the Chinese media and the Russian Government voted and recognized Crimea as independent. The time is coming for North-East people and the Nagas in particular to see a political happening in the

region. If India and Bruma do not move out from their occupation of Nagaland.

Lastly, but not the least the Naga National Council therefore remind the people that it is the right and correct politics will bring freedom of recognition to the people and land.

Therefore, it is not arms, money and numbers of strength but the right political stand will achieve the goal of freedom. May the Naga people and the National Workers in particular realized this reality sooner then later.

Long Live Naga People, Long Live Naga National Council.

KUKNALIM

‘We must move in the best way forward to achieve our goal’

M

y dear countrymen and women, On this very special occasion, as the nation celebrates her republic, I greet you all in the name of our Almighty God. We must honour and show our deepest respect to the founding fathers of our nation. It is through their wisdom that our nation became a republic based on our historical and political rights. Our journey has never been easy then and now struggling to assert ourselves. Yet, one thing remains certain and that is, deep within us we know that we are born to be free as any other nation.

This knowledge of freedom has stood the test of time and suppression.

As we commemorate the 59th years of our existence as a republic, we must take time to celebrate the courage of those who have guided us with their vision and as we recount the contribution to the formation of our nation, we must rededicate ourselves to the same path without losing our national identity. Today, I shall not repeat myself with the history which we all hold dear to our hearts but redirect your minds to issues that are facing us as a people and a nation lest

we lose our focus.

We must move in the best way forward to achieve our goal. The choice before us is to talk about our past and reminiscent with regrets and avoid following the path charted for us or to place ourselves within the historical framework of the past by placing ourselves in it and follow the path till our historical rights become our rights expressed in full freedom and zest. What is becoming clear in this modern day world is that, we are divided in defining who we were and what we must be now. Our nationalism is in great menace.

The Naga nationalism is becoming a sad commentary because we seem to be losing the spirit that gave birth to our nationalism.

We are coward down by modernism and ideology that says “the world is changing and we too must change.” But this is the language of those who play the politics of convenience and adaptation. Rights, whether it be birth right, historical right, political right or any other will not change until those rights

are legitimately established.

In this context, we are on the verge of deserting the good old way of nationalism which is founded on courage, courage to believe that Nagas are different and unique people group.

Our nationalism is becoming existential in nature. Our nationalism is at the threshold of losing its identity and the fear of evolving into a nationalism

will continue to contend within ourselves and give ways to the outside force to take advantage over us. We have seen this force outside of us taking advantage of at every turn of event. We know we cannot trust them nor bank on them but as much as we know, we still stand worlds apart from each other because we are suspicious of one another.

of moral power, the power to suffer for truth. But in order to do so, we need a resolute and determined spirit in the face of our present circumstances.

We should not be betrayed by civilization and advancement.

Civilization says; the past is always old and outdated whereas, advancement says, the new is always best! If our opponent would use its force to weaken

only come from within us and we must work on it till that becomes a reality.

In the midst of opposition and distrust from others we must become strong and more efficient in building our minds and free ourselves from ignorance and servitude. In this, our greatest enemy which is within us can be overcome when we free ourselves from the suspicion which often permeates our mind leading us to become captives of our own actions.

This we must overcome now and join hands to embark on the path of responsibility.

We must believe in our heart that there is a future before us and that, that future is waiting for those who are morally rich and are determined and resolute to make that their own.

Knowledge and adaptation is important as a nation but we must not import knowledge that would destroy the very fabric of our nationalism. Today, in the name of civilization and advancement there are

The Republic Day Message By Brig. (Retd) S. Singnya, Kedahge, Federal Government Of Nagaland at the 59th Naga Republic Day On 22nd March, 2014 of convenience stands before us as our greatest challenge.

This is where we must define ourselves as a people and as a nation founded on the historical and political reality of the past when we were hardly civilized in the modern term.

We must come to the realization that our greatest enemy is not from without but from within. Until we murder this spirit within ourselves we

But if there is any hope that is left in us, it is this fact that we must travel back to the past to reclaim our rights that was declared in unity and trust and struggled together with pride and dignity.

Inasmuch as we have been ruled and dominated against our will by a power that is strictly selfish in nature and political in its attitude we must show that we have in us the strength

our strength, that is not civilization- a civilized nation and world power as they aim to be must use its power to rescue and help the weak rather than build hatred in the minds of those whose struggle is to put their foot on a long cherished dream. If they so insist to suppress our freedom as a nation we must muster our strength and acquire power enough to resist her intrusion. This can

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.

certain group of people who are trying to absorb lessons in the name of modernity, a history and interpretation that is contrary to our ancestors. We must realize the danger of attempting to popularize our national issues in the same plane of existential knowledge. A time will come when this will happen but we must stay strong and commit to the basics of what our leaders of yesterday had enshrined for us as a nation. Our history is our inheritance and to sell out this would mean a total sell out of our rights!

Finally, may it be known that we do not live in other people’s space and time, our land (space) belongs to us and our history (time) is our history. So what is ours cannot be crushed by might. Our strength lies in this and it will forever be until such time when we can all say, the end has come and a new beginning has begun.

My prayer is that God will give us the grace to help us to be patient in times of hardship and the wisdom to guide us in difficult times of hardship as we journey forward.

May God bless you all and KUKNALIM

Saturday

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

22 MarCH, 2014

Morung Youth Express

7

A Day in a Lifetime at Kisama Ji Young

A

From Korea

day in a lifetime is like a drop of water in an ocean, but at times a particular day makes deep impression in our mind and lingers in our memory. We often recall such a pleasant day with joy and nostalgia.

Recently, I had the privilege to spend such a day at Kisama, the Naga heritage village which is about half an hour drive from Kohima.

Kisama is a model village where all the 16 Naga tribes have their tribe house, every house depicting the typical traditions and cultures of each respective tribe. I learnt that Kisama is becoming more or less a meeting point of the Naga culture with outside world as most of the foreign tourists visit it.

What Kisama is terribly lacking in is the toilet facilities. The few toilets available there are disgustingly dirty with no proper water supply.

Those who are looking after this place should take care of the sanitation part with great care and concern, keeping in mind that toilets are the mirrors of the greatness of an establishment.

It was a time of festivity with rallies of traditional games, cultural dances and display of colorful costumes.

Apart from many features, one interesting item was the Naga wrestling. I found the Naga Wrestling is quite similar with the Korean Wrestling. The Naga Wrestling has much scope for development and promotion. Naga traditional costumes are very colourful and unique. Out of several dances, one dance

A

called Unity Dance was quite heart touching. In the dance the various Naga tribes, each dressed in its own traditional fineries, came together hand in hand in long queue and danced together. Such exquisite hues blending into oneness was a message of brotherhood and peace the Nagas can take across the horizon.

I found that the Nagas are very fond of meat, music and merrymaking. I will call these three together as 3Ms. I found that in Nagaland in almost every occasion of festivity there are always an extravaganza of the 3Ms. That day at Kisama too, there was no dearth of the 3Ms. There was an endless supply of meat, specially pork and beef, at the feast. I am also very fond of food and tasting different cuisines.

Though I am a Korean, I can relish any Naga cuisine, (except frog and dog meat).

A special sort of Angami dish I later came across was

an item called MUODI which they had wrapped up in green leaves and distributed to us. I was told that ‘Muodi’ means ‘king-sized meat’, large chunks of pork and beef meat, which used to be cooked without water for about two hours. Each piece of muodi can be shared by three or four persons. Big chunk of cooked meat has a special taste and flavor.

I had no difficulty in intermingling with the Nagas who have very close affinity with the Koreans. I was wearing an Angami shawl they call “Lohe” and probably I did not look like a guest from a foreign country. In fact, I was told that many people asked my elderly companion and his two daughters whether I was also one of his daughters.

The Nagas, being of Mongoloid stock, have a close affinity with the people of South East and Far East. The cultural occasion was graced

by Her Royal Highness Prin-

cess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn of Thailand as Chief Guest.

The organizers fully adorned the Princess with the Angami Naga traditional fineries, and she looked tremendously graceful, no different from any respectable Angami woman. The Chief Host of the occasion, Mr. Neiphiu Rio made a mention of India’s Look East Policy in his brief address to the congregation, and I found myself on the highway of Look East policy.

There at Kisama, I discovered that Nagaland is truly India’s Window to the East.

I found that with the advantage of being a Mongoloid state, Nagaland can play great roles in promoting India’s Look East Policy in the years to come. I could visualize that better connectivity by roads and airways and development of international border trade centers are going to be very important infrastructures to promote the con-

cept of Look East policy. The Look East policy is a good and timely program hammered out by the Government of India with great wisdom. Even then, unless Nagaland takes initiatives with its own innovations and with a strong will the Look East policy will take many years to see the dawn of day. Once the Look East policy is really materialized I see great future for the Nagas and North-Eastern people in particular and the people of India as a whole. I could imagine that the day may not be very far off when the South East and Far East may become the main thoroughfare for the Nagas in the realms of education, employment, and business.

As the program came to an end, the sun was about to set beyond the horizon. We began to feel the chill of the evening weather. It was time to bid adieu to Kisama. So we resigned cheerfully thinking that we had not spent our day in vain. At least I could allow my imaginations to travel without boundaries and got some insights about the Naga people. That was a day in a life time.

The day passed away like a summer brook, but Kisama’s memory lingers on. Kisama is becoming a nerve center today with people of all nationalities flocking there throughout the year. And Kisama beckons the Naga youth to dream and to imagine without boundaries. Once I too had a dream to come to India. People in Korea questioned about it. But now I am here and I am happy. If Naga youth dare to dream, I think they would come up with ideas which may define their future.

The Price Of DishONesTy

few years back, I listened to a speaker narrating an incident of his experience in Holland.

He had gone to buy a bottle of milk.

The milk booth had nobody around to guard it. He dispensed a bottle of milk, paid the money in a container and took the change. It was not an automatic machine.

He was surprised at the honesty of the local folk. He then tried to picturise a different scenario where people were not honest. If people cheated on the change, took extra milk or diluted the milk. They would need a supervisor to keep guard. The supervisor would need to be checked upon.

The milk would need to be tested for its purity and water content and so would require milk inspectors. This would involve money to pay the salaries. The price of milk would go up in order to accommodate the additional expenditure.

Travelling in Chennai in an autorickshaw till a few months back was always an ordeal. The Rickshaw wallah would name an astronomical price and you had to haggle with them for the right price. They were very resistant to having meters in their autos. Recently the administration came down very powerfully and enforced meters. As a result autos had to go by the meter. People used the autos more often since they were now not scared of being fleeced.

Earnings of the autos actually went up and for many it doubled. If only they had agreed to meters years back, they would have been much richer by now.

Electricity supply in Nagaland is

very bad for many reasons. One reason is theft of electricity and tampering with meters. This causes huge losses to the Government and loss of revenue. A poor dept cannot afford to give good service. The result is load shedding. We then need to rely on invertors and generators. It also leads to loss in productivity of all. Everybody loses and we end up spending more money for alternate sources of electricity.

We do bad jobs on roads making money in the process but spend that money in added fuel costs and repairs to our vehicles since our roads take a toll on them. Nobody gains in the process.

We spend huge amounts in buying votes during elections and spend the same mon ey feeding our voters who camp around our houses in hordes demanding for their share of the pie. We make vulgar amounts of money from corrupt means, build fancy buildings and end up selling them later to pay off loans from money lenders who financed the election process.

We use NREGA money dishonestly and do not do all that it is allocated for. As a result our village roads and infrastructure remains poor. We block further release of funds by our dishonesty. Good utilization of funds brings more finances if we are found credible.

The NBCC clean election campaign was a good effort. It is a beginning. This must continue. It should not be conducted only before elections. Many more initiatives must be taken on a war footing before the next

elections.

Can the church ask their members to observe 1. Punctuality day – One day where all members go to work on time and return at the appointed time.

2. Honesty day – One day where members of all churches are encouraged to sign no false papers, ask no commissions, pay no bribes and speak the truth.

3. Compassion day – One day where we treat all the foreigners, immigrants and non locals in our land with the respect that is due to another human being, created in the image of God. 4. Clean electricity campaign – Ask their members to correct their meters and stop stealing electricity for 1 month.

I am sure if the Ao and Sumi churches could mobilize around 30,000 people to clean Dimapur on a single day, they can definitely do this. If the Chief Minister could mobilize the whole of Kohima to clean the capital, it is possible to encourage his state to do this for one day and see what happens.

I believe that there are many more good people in this state who can think of scores of better ideas than what I have mentioned with my little limited mind. Can the church ask its members to voluntarily bring up ideas which they can try out corporately?

Being honest alone can be scary and lonely. Support mechanisms must be developed from within the church.

They say it takes 3 generations to change a culture. Corruption and dishonesty were not really our culture.

We adopted and refined it. Today they have become our foundation because of which our society crumbles. Once you build on dishonesty, you cannot change too much later since you will find one lie leads to another and the sum total of it all is too much to undo, too embarrassing and heavy a price to pay.

We have phenomenal land, plant and community resources. All these do not seem to work productively since we are a dishonest people. We are not underdeveloped because of the oppression of India or the neglect that we suffer. It is purely our culture of dishonesty that has led us to where we are now as the most backward state in India.

If we are to grow as a community and state, we as a people will need to take some concrete steps towards honesty in our society. It takes courage to be honest. The initial price may need to be paid. Eventually it pays better.

Most Naga Christians acknowledge that the Bible is the Word of God. Most however do not think it is a very practical book – just because they did not try it out. We live on the assumptions and second hand rumors of people around us who tell us that dishonesty pays. We are afraid of trying out honesty – just in case it does not work.

If we are honest, everybody will win. There are no losers. David says, I have not seen a Godly man being let down.

Can we give honesty a chance?

Dr Sedevi Angami

Tech invading the most intimate parts of our lives

E

Nury Vittachi | IANS

very decision you take these days, you must think technology. I told my children to be really careful about naming their first pet, adopted from a dog rescue shelter, because "her name will be the answer to your internet security question for the rest of your lives". So she was very nearly the only dog in the world called EasyPassword.

When naming each of my children, I of course checked on the internet to see if their names were available, and chose the names Jem_527, Kelci_286 and Lexi_762. But my wife vetoed the number bits, as she totally doesn't understand the web. She got her wish, as I have long believed in the Golden Rule for Married Men, which goes like this. How to Lose an Argument with a Woman: 1) Take part.

Technology puts power in the palm of your hand, allowing people with quick reactions to change the course of history. A few days ago, a man went out of his house and saw a naked couple blatantly engaging in what we might call conjugal behavior.

Shocked, he used his phone to summon police to the street in the south of Sweden, according to a report I was forwarded from Sydostran, the local newspaper. Police arrived at high speed, but flatly refused to arrest the pair, pointing out that they were having a cuddle in their own home, while their accuser was peeping through their window.

My take on this is that the caller probably didn't really "get" the whole Peeping Tom thing. The peeper is not supposed to call the cops: that's the job of the peepees, so to speak. (So

much for the much-vaunted Swedish education system!)

Many people are not ready for the technology era. In Florida recently, a man and his wife were accused by immigration officials of being in a fake marriage for a passport, according to a report sent to me from the Sun-Sentinel newspaper. The judge asked them to prove they were a real couple. The man offered to show him their digitally recorded bedroom videos. The horrified judge refused to look.

Can judges decline evidence on the basis of it being too icky and embarrassing? If so, Italian judges could use this excuse to avoid seeing evidence of any of the evening activities of Silvio Berlusconi, the chubby, sex-obsessed 77-year-old. Prosecutor: "We will now show the video evi-

dence, your honour." Judge: "Eww, no! You want I should lose my lunch?"

The saddest tech news report of recent days may be the one about Christopher Viatafa, a California guy who Googled himself, as one does. Up popped his name on a "Police Most Wanted" list. He'd been charged with firing a gun in a public place. That's a crime in America now? I thought you got awards from the NRA for that sort of thing.

Anyway, judges worldwide are choosing not to jail people. The hot new thing is to put folks "under house arrest". That's when you can't go to work but have to stay at home and watch TV and sleep and surf the net. Not sure how this qualifies as a punishment. How to get sentenced?

Not sure, but I'm going to start by Googling myself.

The Naga Blog is a forum on facebook where Nagas from Nagaland and around the world network, share ideas and discuss a wide range of topics from politics and philosophy to music and current events in Nagaland and beyond. The blog is not owned by any individual, nor is it affiliated to or associated with any political party or religion. The only movement it hopes to stir is the one raised by the voices of the Nagas every step of the way, amassing perhaps to mass consciousness one day. www.facebook.com/groups/thenagablog

The New Nagaland – A Dictatorial Monarchy or a Democracy?

Yanpvuo Kikon: FOOTHILL turns into FOOTGATE? It all started when a Contract for the Foothill Road worth Rs.16 Crores was given out to two contractors without even following any Govt laid down rules and procedures of OPEN AND TRANSPARENT TENDERING PROCESS! No Notice Inviting Tendering, no bidding and even the request from Nagaland Contractors and Suppliers Union appealing to go for 'OPEN TENDER' was rejected by the Committee and to top it all a statement was given, "There are no competent Lotha contractors...." which hurt the sentiments of Lothas from all over!

We all read this shocking press release by the NFHRCC "It is made very clear that the NFHRCC is constituted on the strength of the apex Hohos. Therefore no one is allowed to undermine the majesty and dignity of the NFHRCC. It is also resolved by the apex Hohos that there is no reason to tender apology by the NFHRCC before any forum in respect of ongoing foothill road construction.” Yes we all read it right, it is the word ‘Majesty’! Till today I thought I was living in a Democracy! If such authoritarian and monarchical examples are displayed by our elders then this is not the Nagaland I dreamed to live in.

A challenge to our Naga Values of Honesty, Integrity, a Egalitarian classless society where Decisions for the People are made in consultation with the People and not by a committee whose role is simply to act as a watchdog and a coordinator. Under what circumstances did such a Committee step above the law and become the supreme authority to start giving out big contracts without even floating a tender is indeed a harsh prick in our conscience.

The news statement further reads "It reiterated the NHFRCC stand that it will not retract the contract agreement between the NFHRCC and the contractors (P. Imty Ao and Yashitsungba Aier) dated January 18, 2014. Any other agreement, with regard to subletting, without the approval of the NFHRCC will be treated as null and void, the conclave asserted."

With the Nagaland Contractors’ and Suppliers’ Union (NCSU) coming into the picture, the conclave asked the NCSU to withdraw its press statement demanding “open tender.” Failing to do so will compel the ten Hohos to disallow the NCSU to execute any work in the jurisdiction of the ten tribe Hohos, the conclave resolved. " Unbelievable? Believe it because this is how our State is run! What has become of our older generation and woe be upon our younger who will shoulder these values and examples shown to us by our leaders. The only plea from the bottom of our hearts is this - Give the contract to any individual from any tribe, we have no problem but Float a tender and LET THE BEST MAN WIN THROUGH A FAIR AND TRANSPARENT BIDDING PROCESS! Prove to your children that you still honour and practice our ancient Naga values of Honesty and Integrity, prove to us that the Rule of Law is supreme in our society. All the best wishes for the foothill road to start with blessings of the younger generation, because tomorrow we will walk these roads which you build for us today.

Stephen Yanthan: An organization which is set up or formed for a particular purpose should also know its own powers and limitations. Under no circumstance, it can function and discharge or usurp the Legislative or Executive powers of the State. Once it crosses the 'Laxman Rekha', the people will surely start questioning and challenging the self assumed Legislative or Executive powers. At the same time, the State cannot delegate or barter away its Legislative or Executive powers, which is vested in itself, to any organization/s. Rule of Law, is supreme in democracy.

Rozelle Mero: I applaud that a foothill project is underway as it is very much needed.. I applaud that the larger community wants to make sure the work is done well, I applaud that a body was formed to assist the department and the government in the smooth transition of the activities or so I thought. What I do not like is that they have not been open and fair with their decisions, but have done what the people they have been accusing of doing are doing. These are some things I question and there may be a valid answer for it all.

1.There is an organisation that records all the contractors names as its members, why were they also not taken into consideration for consultation when seeking contractors? Are the 2 contractors also not a part of that union?

2. The people of the lands or the landowners whose property the roads go through, were they or their elected representatives a part of the decision makings? (by this I do not mean the people in the committee, but if the committee members speak for the community, what was done before the decisions were taken on their part to reach out to the local people who were directly a part of the historic venture by DONATING their lands?)

3. What were the points taken to select the contractors that were issued the order?

4. Why would a committee member be given the contract, isn't that raising a conflict of interest and being corrupted?

5. What is so difficult in getting the work done sooner by subcontracting work to the locals and keeping an eye to make sure the work is done properly? Wouldn't it be a win win for all?

6. What is the use of a government body if they cannot take responsible decisions by themselves after listening to the advise of the organisation assisting them but instead let them make the decision they should be making?

7. It is good that the Tribal Hohos affected by it are taking an interest in ensuring it is done properly... but if they were really for the welfare and progress of the people they will ask the organisation created for the purpose to not make arbitrary decisions but to ask the opinion of the people affected so no jhamela comes in between. Ventures of such epic and 'historic' proportions should not be decide in a closed forum. It reeks too much of hidden agendas and frankly they could be quite blameless and just getting a blacklash of some miscalculation on their part when they made decisions..

8. And now to instigate the Tribal Hohos to issue ultimatums to genuine registered contractors is a form of blackmail.

(The Naga Blog was created in 2008 by Yanpvuo Kikon. This column in The Morung Express will be a weekly feature every Saturday)

Readers may please note that, the contents of the articles published on this page do not reflect the outlook of this paper nor of the Editor in any form.

8

Dimapur

NATIONAL

Saturday 22 March 2014

The Morung Express

Battling election anxiety, congress faces desertions

New Delhi, March 21 (iaNS): The Congress, fighting negative public perception and with a demoralised cadre following a spate of opinion polls predicting a rout for the party in the coming elections, is having a tough time finding winnable candidates with some leaders unwilling to take the plunge and some others deserting the party to join its main rival BJP. Some others want a change of seats.

Among the prominent Congress leaders who have joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in the run up to Lok Sabha elections are Satpal Maharaj, Jagdambika Pal and D. Purandeswari three MPs who had won the 2009 election as Congress nominees. Party veteran and former union minister Buta Singh, who was home minister in the government of prime minister Rajiv Gandhi, has joined the Samajwadi Party.

Congress sources said that union ministers Srikant Jena and Chandresh Kumari and the party’s Haryana unit chief Ashok Tanwar were among those who had explored the possibility of changing seats but were finally given tickets for the seats they won in 2009. The party, however, allowed some leaders to change their seats. Cricketer-turned-politician Mohammed Azharuddin has been fielded from TonkSawai Madhopur in Rajasthan instead of Moradabad in Uttar Pradesh, which he won in 2009.

Former union minister C.P. Joshi has been shifted to Jaipur rural from Bhilwara. “Change has been allowed on seats where it was felt that it will improve the party’s prospects,” a Congress leader told IANS. He

said that the party could not have allowed state party unit chiefs to change their seats as it would have sent a wrong message.

There was speculation

some leaders have already made it clear that they are not keen to contest.

“The high command’s rationale is that since you (West Bengal unit) did not

and the party would decide accordingly. “There are no seniors or juniors when it comes to fighting elections,” he added.

With Finance Minister

Satpal Maharaj quits Congress, joins BJP

D e h ra D U N / N e w Delhi, March 21 (iaNS): Senior Congress leader Satpal Maharaj on Friday resigned from the Congress and joined the Bharatiya Janata Party in presence of its national president Rajnath Singh in New Delhi.

The Paudhi Garhwal MP said he was joining the BJP to strengthen the country, which now has a leader in Narendra Modi, the party’s prime ministerial candidate.

“I want India to grow and outsmart China in development and this is only possible when an able leader like Narendra Modi becomes the Prime Minister,” he said.

He said that after the flash floods in Uttarakhand in June last year,

the people have been suffering and loyal Congress workers were being sidelined. Rajnath Singh welcomed him in the party

that union minister Manish Tewari was keen to move from Ludhiana to Chandigarh where the party has already announced former union minister Pawan Kumar Bansal as its candidate.

The party is yet to announce its candidate from Ludhiana but there are indications that Tewari would be repeated from the seat.

Party sources said former Punjab chief minister Capt Amarinder Singh, whose name is being mentioned as a possible Congress candidate against senior BJP leader Arun Jaitley from Amritsar, was not very keen to contest the election. In states like West Bengal and Tamil Nadu,

want to ally with TMC, you should not now shy away from contesting polls,” said a senior state leader who did not want to be named.

The Congress recently decided not to ally with the ruling TMC, its former partner in UPA 2. Senior state leaders like Pradip Bhattacharya and Manas Bhuiyan have spoken to the press about their unwillingness to contest polls owing to old age and organisational responsibilities.

“They are afraid of losing,” said the senior state leader when asked about the issue. Party general secretary C.P. Joshi said it was the prerogative of the state president to suggest names

fold and said he would be given all the rewards he deserves.

The senior leader has been sulking for some time after he was sidelined. His supporters said that Maharaj was “feeling suffocated” in the party.

Maharaj has a massive following in the hill state and elsewhere because of his religious sermons, and was first angry at being sidestepped and Harish Rawat being appointed the chief minister.

His wife Amrita Rawat is a Congress legislator.

The fate of the Congress government in the hill state is also likely to be challenged by Satpal Maharaj’s exit as 10 legislators are from his camp, sources said.

P Chidambaram opting out of the contest apparently in keeping with his desire to make way for the younger generation, the Congress has fielded his son Karti from Sivaganga in Tamil Nadu. When asked if the party was finding it tough to get candidates, especially in states like West Bengal and Tamil Nadu, where it lacks a strong base and allies, Suraj Hegde, secretary to Rahul Gandhi, said: “The party has the most loyal cadre in these states and they have never changed their ideology or affiliations.”

He defended the party getting senior leaders to fight the polls. “We are not forcing anyone but every-

one has to abide by the party’s decision.” The problem persists in other states too.

In Madhya Pradesh, another state where it suffered a defeat for the third time in the assembly elections last year, the state unit has demanded that former chief minister Digvijay Singh should contest from Vidisha against leader of opposition Sushma Swaraj.

Singh recently became a member of the Rajya Sabha, along with several other senior leaders, giving rise to speculation that they were backing out from an electoral fight.

“It will certainly boost the morale of our candidates if Singh were to contest. It will also make it a real fight in Vidisha,” said Pankaj Chaturvedi, state spokesperson. The Congress has also not shown dexterity in stitching up alliances. The Lok Janshakti Party, which was keen to be with the Congress in the Lok Sabha elections, walked into the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance. The Congress could not cobble together any viable alliance in Tamil Nadu while the BJP has managed to have a multi-party alliance.

Congress leaders, privately, said that some leaders leaving the party on the eve of elections and joining BJP did help its opponent score brownie points in the heat of the election campaign and create a perception in its favour. Officially, though, the party played down the desertions.

“Leaving and joining parties is commonplace closer to elections. There is no wave (in favour of BJP).

The BJP is using all tactics to win over people and then give them tickets,” party leader Shaktisinh Gohil told IANS.

Members of Delhi Network of Positive People, a support group for HIV-positive people, shout slogans during a protest in New Delhi, India on March 21. The activists urged the Indian government to allow production of generic versions of direct-acting antivirals, that can help thousands get affordable oral doses of medicine to control Hepatitis C. Infection progresses more rapidly to damage the liver in HIV-positive patients and coinfection of HIV and Hepatitis C virus is common among HIV-infected injection drug users. (AP Photo)

US court asks Sonia Gandhi to show passport New York, March 21 (iaNS): A US court has asked India’s Congress Party president Sonia Gandhi to provide a copy of her passport to show that she was not in the US between Sep 2 and Sep 9 last year.

Gandhi had filed a motion in a federal court in Brooklyn, New York, seeking dismissal of a human rights violation case against her relating to the 1984 anti-Sikh riots, asserting she had not been served the summons as she was not in the US during that time.

However, holding that Sonia Gandhi’s January 10 declaration is insufficient to prove her absence from US, Judge Brian M. Cogan of Brooklyn Court Thursday asked her to “provide a copy of her passport, showing her most recent entry and exit stamps into and out of the United States.”

“This would appear to obviate both the need for

Four get life sentence in Chidambaram opts out of Lok Sabha battle Delhi, March Mohan Kumaramangalam, MPs, raising the possibil- Chaudhary.

Congress has also re21 (TNN): Finance min- son of former Union min- ity of their being replaced.

Shakti Mills gang-rape New ister P Chidambaram has ister Rangarajan Kumara- However, the party leader- placed Paranjayadityasinh

MUMbai, March 21 (iaNS): A Mumbai court Friday awarded life sentences to four men convicted for gang-raping a 19-year-old call centre employee in the Shakti Mills Complex on July 31, 2013. According to the amended Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2013, the a sentence will continue till the convict’s natural death.

The four convicts are Vijay Jadhav (18), Qasim Hafiz Sheikh alias Qasim Bengali (20), Salim Ansari (27) and Mohammad Ashfaque Shaikh (26).

On the evening of July 31, 2013, the victim, who had taken a shortcut through the Shakti Mills on her way to the Siddhivinayak temple with her boyfriend, was waylaid and attacked by five people, including the four convicts and a minor.

Initially, she kept quiet about the incident but gathered courage to complain to police after the gang-rape of a 23-yearold journalist in the same premises on August 22, 2013. Principal Sessions Judge Shalini PhansalkarJoshi had Thursday con-

victed Jadhav, Bengali and Ansari in both the cases.

The court also found Siraj Khan guilty in the photo-journalist’s gangrape and Shaikh guilty in the call centre employee’s gang-rape. Two minors, one in each case, are being separately tried by the Mumbai Juvenile Justice Board and the hearing will start next month.

The accused were found guilty under Sections 376 (D) for gangrape and other sections pertaining to wrongful restraint, criminal intimidation, conspiracy, common intention, unnatural sex, and sections of the Information Technology Act as the attackers had also made a video clip of the incident.

Following a nationwide uproar, the Mumbai police nabbed the accused within three days of the Aug 22 incident and filed a 600-pageplus chargesheet against them. A few weeks after the incident, the Mumbai police and civic authorities cleared the desolate Shakti Mills complex and beefed up security in the vicinity

opted out of the Lok Sabha contest, with Congress announcing his son Karthi as the candidate from Sivaganga constituency in Tamil Nadu. Kirit Patel will take on BJP patriarch LK Advani in Gandhinagar in Gujarat.

The passing of baton in Sivaganga caps the intense speculation on Chidambaram’s candidature in the wake of Congress’s bleak prospects in the state owing to its failure to find an ally. Congress fought the last two elections with DMK and reaped a rich tally, disproportionate to its weak organizational muscle in the state.

The leg-up for the GenNext extends to another of the state’s political family.

mangalam, is the rookie to contest from Salem.

In what may have the making of an interesting contest, Laxman Singh has been named from Vidisha to take on leader of opposition in Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj in Madhya Pradesh.

Singh is a former MP and the brother of AICC general secretary Digvijay Singh.

Congress announced sitting MPs Ramesh Kumar and Mahabal Mishra from South Delhi and West Delhi, a decision which means that all seven party MPs from the capital would be taking the field in the Lok Sabha polls.

The names of Kumar and Mishra were held back in the earlier list which gave the go ahead to five other

ship has settled for the status quo, finding that any attempt to change the candidate would skew the caste balance it wants in its representation in the apital.

The reprieve for the two comes after Congress mulled possible options to sitting MPs. The Central Election Committee of the party had taken exception to the routine manner in which the MPs were recommended for renomination and had asked the Delhi managers to submit a panel of possible candidates.

Union health minister and senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad would contest from Udhampur in Jammu and Kashmir.

He replaces MP Lal Singh

Parmar from Panchmahals in Gujarat with Ramsingh Parmar. Paranjayaditya is the son-in-law of Congress general secretary Digvijay Singh and his nomination in the previous list of candidates had sparked unrest, leading to clarification from the state leadership that it was an oversight.

Rajya Sabha MP and former union minister Mani Shankar Aiyer will contest from Mayiladuthurai that he represented in Lok Sabha before losing in 2009.

Expelled JD(U) MP Purnmasi Ram will be the Congress candidate from Gopalganj reserved seat in Bihar. Also, Congress’s Tsering Samphel will contest from Ladakh seat in J&K.

any documents from the hospital-resolving defendant’s medical privacy concerns - and the need to rely upon a third party government agency like Customs and Border Protection”, the order states.

“Whatever form this evidence takes, defendant must provide it by April 7, 2014” Cogan ordered.

In his March 20 order the Judge said “the court cannot find that a sufficient showing of non-presence has been made based on the affirmation without plaintiffs having received some discovery to confirm it”. “The defendant must provide some documentary evidence to corroborate her otherwise unsupported declaration stating that she was not in the United States at the time of service”,he said.

The 1984 human rights violation case against Gandhi hinges on the issue whether she was served on

Sep 9 as claimed by Sikhs for Justice (SFJ) or she was not present in the US during that time as per her claim.

SFJ claims that on Sep 9, it had served the summons and complaint on the hospital and security staff at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Centre in New York where Sonia Gandhi was believed to be undergoing medical treatment.

The Brooklyn court had in Sep 2013 issued summons against Gandhi on the complaint filed by SFJ and some victims of antiSikh violence in India in November 1984. The group has sought compensatory and punitive damages against Gandhi for her alleged role in shielding and protecting Congress party leaders including Kamal Nath, Sajjan Kumar and Jagdish Tytler from prosecution for their alleged role in the 1984 violence.

Don’t release Italian marines even if UN intervenes: Kerala CM

ThirUVaNaNThaPUraM, March 21 (PTi): Kerala chief minister Oommen Chandy on Friday urged the Centre not to release the Italian marines accused of murdering Indian fishermen, even if the United Nations intervened.

Asking the Prime Minister Manmohan Singh not to give in to the pressures of Italy, he said reports in a section of media that UN general assembly President John Ashe might take up this demand with India during his visit to the country, raised concerns about the future of the case.

Freeing the marines without trial under Indian

laws would be legally prejudicial and lower the image of the judicial system in the country, the chief minister said in a letter to the Prime Minister. He said people in Kerala were anxiously awaiting the trial and subsequent phases in the case.

Two Indian fishermen were killed off the Kollam coast of Kerala when the two marines aboard Italian ship Enrica Lexie fired at them on February 15, 2012.

Ever since the arrest and detention of the marines — Massimilano Latoree and Salvatore Girone — Italy has been opposing their trial under Indian laws and exerting pressure for their release.

Jaswant Singh denied BJP ticket from Barmer, may contest as an independent New Delhi, March 21 (PTi): BJP on Friday snubbed senior leader Jaswant Singh by denying him a ticket in the Lok Sabha elections in Rajasthan and instead decided to field Col Sonaram Choudhary in Barmer, which Singh was seeking.

The denial of ticket to Singh, who is considered

close to LK Advani, comes a day after the party patriarch was virtually forced to choose the Gandhinagar seat in Gujarat, against his wishes to contest from Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh.

There is speculation that Singh might contest as an independent but there was no confirmation. Choudhary had recently defected

from the Congress. Singh (76), currently a Lok Sabha member from Darjeeling, sought a ticket from Barmer, saying this was his last election and would like to contest it from his home.

The former Union minister, who has held the portfolios of finance, defence and external affairs during the NDA regime,

has had his share of problems with the party ever since he wrote a book on his visit to Pakistan praising its founder-leader Mohammad Ali Jinnah.

The book was banned in Gujarat following some adverse references to Sardar Patel and he was expelled from the party briefly after the controversy over

the book. Singh was also the Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha from 2004 to 2009. He was also the NDA candidate for the vicepresident’s post in 2012.

The changing power equations in Rajasthan, with Vasundhara Raje registering a thumping victory in the assembly elections, have apparently forced the party to

deny him the ticket and give it to Choudhary, a jat leader from the area. The BJP declared three other seats in Rajasthan, where Manoj Rajoriya was given the party ticket from Karauli-Dholpur (SC) seat, Sanwarmal Jat from Ajmer, who will contest against Sachin Pilot of Congress and P P Choudhary from Pali Lok Sabha seat.

Tata funding for AAP to be based on election performance

New Delhi, March 21 (PTi): The Tata Group will fund new political entrant Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) based only on its performance in the upcoming general elections and not before. The group provides funding to political parties through its Tata Electoral Trust based on their performance in both the outgoing and incoming Parliament.

“The question is being raised about new political parties. Clearly, they have no representation in the outgoing Parliament but Indian Hindu devotees offer prayers to the Sun God in the River Ganges on the eve of they may have a represenWorld Water Day in Allahabad, India on March 21. World Water Day is observed annually tation in the incoming Paron March 22 as a means to recognize the global need to save, conserve and manage waliament. If they do well in ter resources for future generations. (AP Photo)

their representation, they will automatically receive funds,” Tata Sons Group Executive Council Member and Brand Custodian Mukund Rajan said.

Asked about funding the AAP for the upcoming Lok Sabha elections starting on April 7, he said: “If they perform well in the election, they will receive cheque after the election. Many of the expenses that parties book don’t necessarily get paid before the elections. Many of them will be settling that budget and bills long time afterwards.” Explaining why AAP will be ineligible for funds before the polls, Rajan

said: “The trust has no flexibility. The trustees are governed by the provisions of the trust and the trust mandate requires it to distribute all corporate funds that it receives to all political parties on a pro-rata basis. He said 50 per cent of the funding is on the basis of the performance of the outgoing Parliament and the rest is based on representation in the incoming Parliament.

On whether the new party has approached the Tatas for support, Rajan said: “I am not specifically aware of any reach-out that they have done formally to us but I do know that many

people are aware of the existence of the electoral trust because it was a Tata initiative many years back to introduce transparency in electoral funding in India.”

Companies have been registering electoral trusts under a new framework that provides tax benefits for funds extended by firms to political outfits. As the elections draw close, parties do get in touch to understand if they are eligible for funds, Rajan added.

On the amount earmarked for electoral funding, he said: “That is a decision that each of the Tata company boards will take

and the trust receives not only from the Tata group but is open to any corporate to contribute.”

Tata Global Beverages and Tata Sons on Thursday released a 10-point women’s manifesto -”Voice of 49%”-highlighting issues that Indian women consider important before the polls.

More than 1.7 million women responded to a campaign and asked politicians to lead by example on issues such as curbing crime against women, more representation of women in Parliament and building 1 crore toilets for women within a year, among others.

Saturday

InternatIonal

the Morung express

22 March 2014

Dimapur

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Russia completes cRimea annexation

A Ukrainian border guard takes position during training at a military camp in the village of Alekseyevka on the Ukrainian-Russian border, eastern Ukraine on March 21. Russian President Vladimir Putin signed bills on Friday making Crimea part of Russia, completing the annexation from Ukraine. (AP Photo)

MOSCOW, MarCh 21 (aP): President Vladimir Putin completed the annexation of Crimea on Friday, signing the peninsula into Russia at nearly the same time his Ukrainian counterpart sealed a deal pulling his country closer into Europe’s orbit.

Putin said he saw no need to further retaliate against U.S. sanctions, a newly conciliatory tone reflecting an apparent attempt to contain one of the worst crises in Russia’s relations with the West since the

Cold War. Putin hailed the incorporation of Crimea into Russia as a “remarkable event” before he signed the parliament bills into law in the Kremlin on Friday. He ordered fireworks in Moscow and Crimea.

At nearly the same time, in a ceremony in Brussels, Ukraine’s new prime minister pulled his nation closer to Europe by signing a political association agreement with the European Union — the same deal that touched off the political crisis that

drove President Viktor Yanukovych from office and sent him fleeing to Russia.

Russia rushed the annexation of the strategic Black Sea peninsula after Sunday’s hastily called referendum, in which its residents overwhelmingly backed breaking off from Ukraine and joining Russia.

Ukraine and the West have rejected the vote, held two weeks after Russian troops had taken over Crimea.

At Ukrainian bases on the peninsula, troops hesitated, besieged by Russian

forces and awaiting orders.

Russia claimed some had switched sides and agreed to join the Russian military.

The U.S. and EU have responded to the crisis by slapping sanctions on Russia.

U.S. President Barack Obama on Thursday ordered a second round of sanctions against nearly two dozen members of Putin’s inner circle and a major bank supporting them.

Moscow retaliated on Thursday by banning nine U.S. officials and lawmakers

from entering Russia, but Putin indicated that Russia would likely refrain from curtailing cooperation in areas such as Afghanistan.

Moscow appears to hope to limit the damage from the latest U.S. and EU sanctions and avoid further Western blows.

The latest U.S. sanctions, which targeted Putin’s chief of staff along with other senior Kremlin aides and four businessmen considered to be his lifelong friends, dealt a painful blow to Russia.

Obama also warned that more sweeping penalties against Russia’s economy, including its robust energy sector, could follow.

International rating agencies downgraded Russia’s outlook, and Russian stocks tumbled Friday.

Putin tried to play down the sanctions’ toll on Russia in televised remarks at Friday’s session of the presidential Security Council, saying that “we should keep our distance from those people who compromise us,” a jocular reference to the officials on the sanctions list, some of whom attended the meeting.

He added sardonically that he would open an account to keep his salary in the targeted Bank Rossiya, a private bank that is owned by Yuri Kovalchuk, who is considered to be Putin’s longtime friend and banker. With about $10 bil-

lion in assets, Rossiya ranks as the 17th largest bank in Russia and maintains numerous ties to banks in the United States, Europe and elsewhere.

At the same time, Putin said that that he sees no immediate need for further Russian retaliation to the U.S. sanctions, a stance that reflected an apparent hope to limit further damage to ties with the West that have plummeted to their lowest point since the end of the Cold War. “We must refrain from retaliatory steps for now,” Putin said.

Russia is expected to play a major role in the planned withdrawal of U.S. and other NATO forces from Afghanistan later this year by providing transit corridors via its territory, and Putin seemed to indicate that the Kremlin at this stage has no intention to shut the route in response to U.S. and EU sanctions.

Moscow also appeared to be warming to the deployment of monitors from the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the top trans-Atlantic security and rights group which it has blocked so far.

Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that Russia would welcome sending the OSCE observers to Russianspeaking regions in eastern Ukraine on condition that their number and locations

Nothing spotted in search for missing plane Thai court rules February election invalid

PErTh, MarCh 21 (aP): Search planes scoured a remote patch of the Indian Ocean but came back empty-handed Friday after a 10hour mission looking for any sign of the missing Malaysia Airlines jet, another disappointing day in one of the world’s biggest aviation mysteries.

Australian officials pledged to continue the search for two large objects spotted by a satellite earlier this week, which had raised hopes that the two-week hunt for the Boeing 777 that disappeared March 8 with 239 people on board was nearing a breakthrough.

But Australia’s acting prime minister, Warren Truss, tamped down expectations. “Something that was floating on the sea that long ago may no longer be floating — it may have slipped to the bottom,” he said. “It’s also certain that any debris or other material would have moved a significant distance over that time, potentially hundreds of kilometers.”

In Kuala Lumpur, where the plane took off for Beijing, the country’s defense minister thanked more than two dozen countries

involved in the search that is stretching from Kazakhstan in Central Asia to the southern Indian Ocean, and said the focus remains on finding the airplane. “This going to be a long haul,” Hishammuddin Hussein told a news conference.

The search area indicated by the satellite images — some 2,500 kilometers (1,550 miles) southwest of Perth — is so remote it takes aircraft four hours to fly there and four hours back, leaving them with only enough fuel to search for about two hours. On Friday, five planes, including three P-3 Orions, made the trip.

While search conditions had improved from Thursday, with much better visibility, the Australian Maritime Safety Authority said there were no sightings of plane debris.

Two Chinese aircraft are expected to arrive in Perth on Saturday to join the search, and two Japanese aircraft will be arriving Sunday, Truss said. A small flotilla of ships coming to Australia from China was still several days away. “We are doing all that we can, devoting all the resources

we can and we will not give up until all of the options have been exhausted,” said Truss, who is acting prime minister while Tony Abbott is in Papua New Guinea.

For relatives of the people aboard the plane — 154 of the 227 passengers are Chinese — hope was slipping away, said Nan Jinyan, sister-in-law of passenger Yan Ling.

“I’m psychologically prepared for the worst and I know the chances of them coming back alive are extremely small,” said Nan, one of dozens of relatives gathered at a Beijing hotel awaiting any word about their loved ones.

Abbott spoke with Chinese President Xi Jinping, whom he described as “devastated.” “It’s about the most inaccessible spot that you could imagine on the face of the Earth, but if there is anything down there we will find it. We owe it to the families of those people to do no less,” Abbott said.

The Norwegian cargo vessel Hoegh St. Petersburg is also in the area helping with the search. The ship, which transports cars, was on its way from South Africa to Australia.

BaNGKOK, MarCh 21 (aP): Thailand’s Constitutional Court ruled Friday that a general election held in February was invalid, setting the stage for a new vote and dealing another complication to the country’s political crisis.

The judges voted 6-3 to declare the Feb. 2 election unconstitutional because voting was not held that day in 28 constituencies where anti-government protesters had prevented candidates from registering. The constitution says the election must be held on the same day nationwide.

“The process (now) is to have a new general election,” Pimol Thampitakpong, the court’s secretary-general, said at a news conference announcing the decision. There was no immediate indication of when new polls might be held.

The date is normally set by the government in consultation with the Election Commission.

The ruling would appear to have little practical effect in either alleviating or worsening Thailand’s political crisis, which began late last year when protesters demanded that the admin-

Luxury hotel in Kabul attacked KaBUL, MarCh 21 (aP): Four men with pistols stuffed in their socks attacked a luxury hotel in Kabul, opening fire in a restaurant and killing nine people, including four foreigners, officials said Friday.

Afghan authorities initially said only two security guards had been wounded in the brazen assault on the Serena hotel in Kabul. Deputy Interior Minister Gen. Mohammad Ayub Salangi later told The Associated Press that the Afghan fatalities included two men, two women and one child while the foreigners included two women and two men. They were from Canada, New Zealand, India and Pakistan, officials announced Friday at a press conference.

The Afghan capital has been hit by several attacks, but authorities appeared stunned that the militants had managed to get through the tight security at the Serena hotel — considered one of the safest places to stay in Kabul.

The attack in Kabul came just hours after the Taliban killed 11 people in an audacious assault on a police station in the city of Jalalabad in eastern Afghanistan. The assailants were killed in both stand-

offs, but made their point: Afghan forces face a huge challenge in securing upcoming elections next month in what will be a major test of their abilities as foreign troops wind down their combat mission at the end of this year.

The attacks show the Taliban are following through on their threat to use violence to disrupt the April 5 vote, which will be the first democratic transfer of power since the 2001 U.S.-led invasion that ousted the Islamic militant movement. President Hamid Karzai is constitutionally barred from seeking a third term.

Taliban spokesman Z abi hul lah Mujahi d claimed responsibility for the assault on the Serena hotel and the earlier attack in Jalalabad, an economic hub near the border with Pakistan. “Our people, if they decide to attack any place, they can do it,” he said. In Jalalabad, the violence began before dawn on Thursday when a suicide bomber blew up his explosives-laden car outside the police station, located near the palatial residence of Nangarhar provincial Gov. Attaullah Ludin.

Six gunmen rushed into

the station as two more bombs exploded nearby — one hidden in a motorized rickshaw and another in a vegetable cart. That prompted a fierce battle that lasted more than four hours, with Afghan police and soldiers chasing gunmen down the street amid gunfire and smoke billowing into the blue sky. Security forces killed seven attackers, Salangi said Thursday.

Police said the attack killed 10 officers, including a city district police chief, and a university student caught in the crossfire. Fifteen policemen were also wounded. Mujahid, the Taliban spokesman, said the attackers wore suicide vests and killed nearly 30 police officers. The Islamic militant group frequently exaggerates casualty figures.

The initial suicide bombing badly damaged the nearby state-run Afghan radio and television building, shattering its windows.

The Taliban have carried out numerous attacks in Jalalabad, Kabul and elsewhere in the east. But the choice of a police station as a target reflected an effort to show they can still penetrate heavily secured areas despite numerous U.S. and Afghan offensives against

istration of Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra be replaced by an unelected “people’s council” to implement reforms they say are needed to end corruption and money politics.

Yingluck refused to resign and called early elections in a bid to ensure a fresh mandate. But the protesters tried to prevent the election from taking place, physically blocking and intimidating both potential candidates and voters. It was their efforts that prevented voting from being completed on the same day.

At the same time, the main opposition Democrat Party — closely linked to the protest movement — boycotted the polls. Because voting was never completed, no results were announced, even for areas where there were no problems. The Democrats indicated earlier this week that they would boycott fresh polls if held under Yingluck’s caretaker government.

Even if new polls go smoothly, Yingluck faces several legal challenges that could force her from office, faced with a judiciary which has a record of hostility toward her and her

political allies. The protesters, whose main strength is in the Democrats’ southern strongholds and Bangkok, have maintained constant, sometimes violent street demonstrations in the capital. In turn they have been the target of gun and grenade attacks by unknown parties. The attacks, along with street battles against the police and political rivals, have left at least 23 people dead and hundreds hurt.

Police Col. Kamthorn Auicharoen said Friday that two grenades fired overnight from an M79 launcher landed on houses near a Constitutional Court judge’s residence in Bangkok, injuring one man. It was the latest in a series of such incidents, with most but not all targeting opponents of the government.

Thailand has seen political conflict since 2006, when then-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Yingluck’s brother, was ousted by a military coup after being accused of corruption and abuse of power. Thaksin’s supporters and opponents have since taken to the streets for extended periods in a power struggle.

Attack kills 9, including 4 foreigners

are clearly set, but he made it clear that they wouldn’t be let into Crimea.

In Crimea, heavily armed Russian forces and pro-Russia militia have blocked Ukrainian military at their bases for weeks.

Following Sunday’s referendum they have moved aggressively to flush the Ukrainians out, storming some ships and military facilities.

The Ukrainian government said it was drawing up plans to evacuate its outnumbered troops from Crimea, but many soldiers remained at their bases awaiting orders.

At the Ukrainian military air base in Belbek, outside Sevastopol, Col. Yuly Mamchur told reporters Friday that he was still waiting for orders from his commanders on whether to vacate.

Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu told Putin Friday that 72 Ukrainian military units in Crimea have decided to join the Russian military. His claim couldn’t be independently confirmed.

Meanwhile in Brussels, Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseniy Yatsenyuk and EU leaders signed an association agreement that was part of the pact that former President Yanukovych backed out of in November in favor of a $15 billion bailout from Russia. That

decision sparked the protests that ultimately led to his downfall and flight last month, setting off one of Europe’s worst political crises since the Cold War. “Russia decided to actually impose a new post-Cold War order and revise the results of the Second World War,” Yatsenyuk said. “The best way to contain Russia is to impose real economic leverage over them.”

The U.S. and the European Union have pledged to quickly offer a bailout to Ukraine, which is teetering on the verge of bankruptcy, struggling to pay off billions of dollars in debts in the coming months.

It owes Russia $2 billion in overdue payments for natural gas supplies. Putin made it clear that Russia will further raise the heat on Ukraine by urging it to pay back a $3 billion bailout loan granted to Yanukovych in December.

In addition to that, Russian Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev suggested that Russia should reclaim $11 billion in gas rebates it provided to Ukraine in exchange for a deal that extended Russia’s lease on its navy base in Crimea until 2042.

Medvedev argued that since Crimea is part of Russia now, the deal is void and Russia should demand the money. Putin backed the proposal.

World faces ‘waterenergy’ crisis: UN TOKyO, MarCh 21 (aFP): Surging populations and economies in the developing world will cause a double crunch in demand for water and energy in the coming decades, the UN said Friday. In a report published on the eve of World Water Day, it said the cravings for clean water and electricity were intertwined and could badly strain Earth’s limited resources.

“Demand for freshwater and energy will continue to increase over the coming decades to meet the needs of growing populations and economies, changing lifestyles and evolving consumption patterns, greatly amplifying existing pressures on limited natural resources and on ecosystems,” the report said.

Already, 768 million people do not have access to a safe, reliable source of water, 2.5 billion do not have decent sanitation and more than 1.3 billion do not have mains electricity. “Lack of access to water, sanitation and sustainable energy is an aggravating factor for poverty,” Michel Jarraud, secretary-general of the World Meteorological Organization, told a conference at the United Nations University in Tokyo. “We need to adopt more integrated policies and innovative strategies to tackle the issues.”

About 20 percent of the world’s aquifers today are depleted, according to the UN report. Agriculture accounts for more than two-thirds of water use. The World Water Development Report, the fifth in the series by the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), is an overview collated from data from scientific studies and investigations by agencies.

It said ever more freshwater will be needed for farming, construction, drinking, cooking, washing and sewerage, but also for energy production -- 90 percent of which uses water-intensive techniques today. The report gave this snapshot of the future: Global water demand is likely to increase by 55 percent by 2050.

By then, more than 40 percent of the world’s population will be living in areas of “severe” water stress, many of them in the broad swathe of land from North Africa and the Middle East to western South Asia.

Asia will be the biggest hotspot for bust-ups over water extraction, where water sources straddle national borders. “Areas of conflict include the Aral Sea and the Ganges-Brahmaputra River, Indus River and Mekong River basins,”

said the report.

Global energy demand is expected to grow by more than a third by 2035, with China, India and Middle Eastern countries accounting for 60 percent of the increase.

In 2010, energy production gobbled up 66 billion cubic metres (2,300 billion cu. feet) of fresh water -more than the average annual flow of the River Nile in Egypt.

By 2035, this consumption could rise by 85 percent, driven by power plant cooling systems that work with water.

Thirsty energy

An Afghan policeman patrols the entrance of the Serena hotel in downtown Kabul, Afghanistan on March 21. Four men with pistols stuffed in their socks attacked the hotel in Kabul on Thursday, opening fire in a restaurant and killing nine people, including four foreigners, officials said. (AP Photo)

them in recent years.

Hours later in Kabul, four young men entered the Serena hotel at about 6 p.m., telling guards they were going to dinner, officials said.

To enter the hotel, guests must pass through an exterior gate and undergo a metal detector search and pat down.

Inside, they drew the pistols hidden in their socks and opened fire, Interior Ministry spokesman Sediq Sediqqi said. Bursts of gunfire could be heard

from outside the hotel as Afghan troops cordoned off the area. The attackers appeared to be about 18 years old and all were killed, Sediqqi said, adding that gunfire wounded two hotel security guards.

Armored vehicles carrying foreigners were seen leaving the hotel Friday morning, but otherwise the area appeared calm.

In a separate statement, Mujahid said the gunmen targeted foreigners and dignitaries gathered at the ho-

tel for a celebration marking the Persian New Year, Nowruz. He said Thursday’s attacks in Kabul and Jalalabad show the vulnerability of government forces against determined militants.

Afghanistan’s upcoming elections include provincial votes, but the most closely watched is the presidential race. Karzai’s successor will guide the country for the next five years as most U.S. and allied forces leave the country by the end of 2014.

Shale deposits and tar sands, driving an energy boom in North America, are especially hefty in their demands for water to force out the precious gas and oil, the report said.

Even so, “they are outstripped by far by biofuels,” said researcher Richard Connor, who headed the study. Renewable sources like solar and wind energy that use far less water are gaining ground, and accounted for about a fifth of global electricity output in 2011, the report said. But they are unlikely to expand this share significantly if fossil fuels continue receiving the bulk of subsidies, it said.

Oil, gas and coal had subsidies of $523 billion (376 billion euros) in 2011, nearly 30 percent more than in 2010, compared to $88 billion for renewables, the report said, citing International Energy Agency (IEA) figures. Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean have plenty of potential for hydro-energy, which reuses the precious resource, it added.

Hydro-electric dams have been extremely controversial. Big projects deliver gigawatts of power but critics say they are ecologically damaging and prone to massive cost overruns.

The review called for a global effort in efficiency gains, pointing the finger at the arid countries of the Middle East where between 15 and 60 percent of water is wasted through leaks or evaporation even before the consumer opens the tap. The report also called for smart choices in allocating the trillions of dollars likely to be invested in water and energy infrastructure over the next two decades.

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SPORTS

Saturday 22 March 2014

Nagaland beat Bihar in U 16 trophy JHARKHAND, MARCH 21 (MExN): In the ongoing BCCI associate and affiliate members trophy for u-16 at Ranchi in Jharkand, Nagaland defeated Arunachal by 8 wickets and Manipur defeated Bihar by 60 runs on March 20 at JSCA Stadium. On the first day Nagaland won the toss and put Arunachal to bat and bowled out the AP team for 125 runs in 44.4 overs and scored the required runs in just 22.2 overs and losing only 2 wickets.

On March 23, Nagaland will play Manipur Points table Manipur played 2 won 2 points 8 Bihar played 2 won 1 points 4 Nagaland played 2 won 1 points 4 Arunachal played 2 won 0 lost 2 points 0

FIFA resumes World Cup stadium inspections Rio DE JANEiRo, MARCH 21 (iANS): FIFA has begun a final operational inspection of Brazil`s 12 World Cup stadiums before football`s showpiece tournament kicks off in June. The technical visits began Thursday, just days before FIFA secretary general Jerome Valcke returns to the country for meetings with local officials, reports Xinhua. "This is the last chance for the organisers to take stock of the operational preparations before the respective FIFA World Cup installations begin to be implemented in all 12 host cities," FIFA said in a statement. According to the local organising committee`s stadium operations manager Tiago Paes, venue operators are keen to show FIFA they are on track for the June 12-July 13 event.

"This inspection tour will be fundamental to consolidate operational plans and for each area to confirm the operations they have planned over the last few years," Paes said. Three World Cup stadiums remain unfinished despite an original December 2013 construction deadline imposed by FIFA. Sao Paulo`s Itaquerao stadium, which will host the tournament opener between Brazil and Croatia, and Curitiba`s Arena da Baixada are not expected to be ready until mid-May. Arena Pantanal in the western city of Cuaiba is expected to officially opened next month.

The Morung Express

Pirlo puts Juventus into Europa quarters Benfica, Porto, Valencia, Sevilla, Olympique Lyon, FC Basel and AZ Alkmaar advances

LoNDoN, MARCH 21 (REutERS): Andrea Pirlo kept Juventus on course for a home Europa League final after his superb free kick settled their battle with Italian rivals Fiorentina to send the Serie A leaders into the quarter-finals on Thursday.

Pirlo's dead-ball accuracy after 71 minutes, which saw him caress the ball high into the far right corner of the net, handed Juve a 1-0 win in Florence and a 2-1 aggregate success over a Fiore side who finished with 10 men.

Juve were joined in the last eight by last season's beaten finalists Benfica, Porto, Valencia, Sevilla, Olympique Lyon, FC Basel and AZ Alkmaar.

Benfica survived a spirited fightback by Tottenham Hotspur to earn a 2-2 second-leg draw in Lisbon and go through 5-3 on aggregate while 2011 winners Porto, who sacked coach Paulo Fonseca this month, drew 2-2 at Napoli to win 3-2 on aggregate.

Sevilla overcame city rivals Real Betis 4-3 on penalties, after a 2-2 aggregate draw, while 10-man Basel ended the impressive campaign of Austria's Salzburg although their 2-1 away win, after a goalless first leg, was marred by a first-half interruption when Swiss fans threw objects on to the pitch.

This season's final will be held at the Juventus stadium in Turin on May 14, which was a huge incentive for the Italian league title holders, but Antonio Conte's side needed something special from talisman Pirlo to stay in the competition.

Needing to score after Fiore grabbed an away goal

Juventus' Andrea Pirlo, left, scores during an Europa League, round of 16, return-leg soccer match between Fiorentina and Juventus, at the Artemio Franchi stadium in Florence, Italy, Thursday, March 20. (AP Photo)

in a 1-1 first-leg draw, Juve were struggling for inspiration at the Stadio Artemio Franchi until Gonzalo Rodriguez was sent off for tripping Fernando Llorente to leave Pirlo with a sight of goal. The Italy playmaker did not let runaway Serie A leaders Juve down, stroking a superb strike past Neto's outstretched hand. "We knew that we were going to have to fight for it, and Andrea's goal was the crowning glory of a great performance," said Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci.

appeared to be cruising through after Ezequiel Garay's first-half header but injury-hit Spurs rallied.

Visiting Belgium winger Nacer Chadli's quickfire double, a low shot and then a close range finish, left Tottenham a goal away from forcing extra time with 11 minutes left. The Premier League side had a strong penalty appeal turned down and then in stoppage time Benfica keeper Jan Obrak made a fine save to keep out Gylfi Sigurdsson's header.

The Portuguese then won a penalty in the final BENFICA SCARE seconds, which Lima conBenfica, who were 3-1 verted to secure a 2-2 draw up from an impressive and extend Benfica's unfirst-leg win in London, beaten run at home in Eu-

ropean competition to 11 games. Porto ended Napoli manager Rafael Benitez's hopes of leading a side to a second successive final after the Spaniard triumphed in the competition with Chelsea last season.

Napoli had looked the more likely to progress after Goran Pandev's 21st-minute goal cancelled out Porto's 1-0 first-leg win but the Portuguese side stunned the hosts after the break.

Fine strikes from Algerian substitute Nabil Ghilas and Ricardo Quaresma put Porto 2-1 up with a stoppage-time equaliser from Duvan Zapata proving scant consolation for Napoli.

SEVILLA SHOOTOUT Sevilla piled on the misery for Real Betis after booking a place in the last eight by winning a tense penalty shootout after goals from Jose Antonio Reyes and Carlos Bacca saw the visitors wipe out a 2-0 first-leg home deficit.

Betis, who are bottom of La Liga and nine points adrift of the safety zone, had the upper hand in the shootout but successive misses by Cedrick Mabwati and Nono condemned the green half of the city to a heart-breaking defeat.

Lyon eased through 5-3 against Viktoria Plzen despite a 2-1 second-leg defeat in the Czech Republic,

while a second-half goal from Paco Alcacer earned Valencia a 1-0 win at home to Bulgaria's Ludogorets for a comfortable 4-0 aggregate success.

Dutchman Dick Advocaat, who guided Zenit St Petersburg to the 2008 UEFA Cup title, took AZ Alkmaar into the last eight with a goalless draw against Anzhi Makhachkala in Ramenskoye. Anzhi, propping up the Russian Premier League with one win in 21 games, failed to overturn a 1-0 first-leg deficit.

Their frustrations boiled over in stoppage time when Karlen Mkrtchyan was shown a red card for a challenge on Steven Berghuis.

Thunder stay focused Try not to 'repeat mistakes Silva rules out 2014 UFC return of history, says Klitschko to edge past Cavaliers

Oklahoma City Thunder's Kevin Durant (35) is fouled by Cleveland Cavaliers' Alonzo Gee (33) during the third quarter of an NBA basketball game Thursday, March 20, 2014, in Cleveland.

Oklahoma City defeated Cleveland 102-95. (AP Photo)

CLEVELAND, MARCH 21 (AP): As the score tightened, Kevin Durant stayed loose. Sitting in his warm-ups on Oklahoma City's bench, Durant knew he might be called upon again. And when he was, the NBA's leading scorer closed out Cleveland. "My mind's always on the game so I didn't space out," he said. "I was instantly ready."

Durant scored 35 points, finding his shooting touch after a rough start, and made five free throws in the final minute to shut down a furious, fourthquarter comeback and give the Thunder their 50th win, 102-95 over the injury-riddled Cavaliers on Thursday night. Durant missed five of his first six shots, but finally got it going. He has scored 25 or more in 33 straight games — the league's longest streak since Michael Jordan did it 40 consecutive times (1986-87).

With the win, the Thunder, who let a 24-point lead dwindle to five in the fourth, moved within 1½ games of San Antonio for the best record in the Western Conference. Oklahoma City played without point guard Russell Westbrook, who rested his surgically

repaired knee. Dion Waiters scored 30 and Spencer Hawes 20 for the Cavs, who trailed 95-71 with 6:34 left before going on a 21-2 run to pull within 97-92.

Durant, though, who had re-entered with 3:34 to go, made his free throws to end Cleveland's rally. When he took a seat after three quarters, Durant figured his night was done.

"But that can happen in this league," Durant said. "Guys have pride and Cleveland plays extremely hard, so those guys made it a game late and we had to close it out." Cleveland played without injured star guard Kyrie Irving (strained biceps) and forward Luol Deng (sprained ankle).

Durant's performance came two nights after LeBron James dropped 43 points on Cleveland, which lost its season-high fourth straight at home and has seen its playoff chances disappear.

Durant added 11 rebounds and six assists, his biggest to Serge Ibaka for a dunk with 1:54 left after the Cavs had closed within eight.

With the Thunder ahead by 17 entering the fourth, Durant grabbed a seat after scoring 30 in 32 minutes.

Oklahoma City's reserves

were having their way with the Cavs, but Cleveland quickly reeled off 11 in a row, forcing Oklahoma City coach Scott Brooks to bring Durant back. Waiters' steal and layup got Cleveland within five, but the Thunder made sure the ball went to Durant, who then put it away at the line. But not before the Thunder had their nerves frayed. "You hate to talk about the last few minutes," Brooks said. "So I'm not going to."

Reggie Jackson started for Westbrook and added 13 points. Derek Fisher had 12 and Jeremy Lamb 10. Durant had a very un-Durantlike start. He started 1-of-6 from the field and grew more and more agitated with every missed shot. Late in the first quarter, Durant, who had complained to the officials about not getting a call on a drive, grabbed an offensive rebound, dunked in frustration and got called for a technical.

"I just don't care if I miss," Durant said. "I had it in my mind that I was going to start the game off 1 for 10. That's how quickly it can change, man. I thought I might be in for a tough shooting night, but I always stay aggressive."

HoLLYWooD, MARCH 21 (AP): Heavyweight champion W ladimir Klitschko delivered a message to Russia President Vladimir Putin on Thursday, saying it's important not to "repeat the mistakes of history" concerning the crisis in his native Ukraine.

Klitschko, the brother of opposition leader Vitali Klitschko, is training in Florida for the defence of his WBA and IBF titles in April. He sat before a Ukrainian flag at a news conference, wearing a white T-shirt with his country's name and logo.

"You cannot repeat the mistakes of history, and there were a lot of mistakes," Klitschko said when asked about his message to Putin.

Klitschko said he feels sadness about the months of protests and sporadic violence in his country, and his "mind is over there, my body is here."

Russian forces effectively took control of Crimea about two weeks

ago after the ouster of Ukraine's pro-Russia president, Viktor Yanukovych.

Klitschko's brother gave up boxing to run for president in Ukraine, where elections are scheduled for May 25.

"He's representing me in a certain way over there and I'm representing him in a certain way over here," said Klitschko, who speaks with his brother daily. "But I know, as Nelson Mandela said, 'Sport has the power to change the world.' And I believe in that very strongly." Klitschko stressed there was only one path to peace.

"There is, by no means, no way, a military solution," he said. "It's all about diplomacy and good politics because nobody can return the lost loves. "I just hope with all the international presence and awareness, certain steps from the political and diplomatic side will put the legal question into place."

Klitschko, who turns 38 on Tuesday, spoke following a workout for the April 26 title bout with Alex Leapai in Germany. He plans to travel to Austria on Saturday for more training and return to Ukraine after the fight. He said his athletic career helps him deal with the crisis in his homeland.

"It's disappointment, it's anger, it's being worried.

It's a combination of all, you can imagine," he said.

"There's a lot of emotions, but I understand. It's like in a boxing match, if you get too emotional, you're definitely going to produce mistakes that are eventually going to cause more damage."

Rio DE JANEiRo, MARCH 21 (iANS): Brazilian mixed martial artist Anderson Silva has ruled out a return to the ring in 2014. The 38-year-old is still recovering from a horrific broken leg suffered against American Chris Weidman in December and says he is not yet thinking about a comeback, reports Xinhua.

"These rumours that I'll fight at UFC 181 or any other event around that date aren't true," Silva told Brazil's Sportv Thursday. "This year is over for me. There's a chance I'll fight in the first half of 2015." Silva is the most successful competitor in Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) history, go-

ing undefeated from 2006 to 2013. While stopping short of announcing his retirement, Silva admitted he was unlikely to reclaim his middleweight belt. "(My) phase as the champion is over," he said.

"Fighting for (the title) is a little far away from me." "I don't see myself stopping now but I don't know if I will fulfill my 10-fight contract," he said. "My family has been asking me for years to stop fighting, and they need to understand that this is what I love to do and that I need to have my time. My goal in the sport was to become a reference in this sport, and I'm achieving this."

Chelsea's Torres hints Fraser-Pryce set for Doha opening at Atletico return

LoNDoN, MARCH 21 (AFP): Chelsea striker Fernando Torres has potentially opened the door on a return to Atletico Madrid after expressing an interest in working under former team-mate Diego Simeone.

"In football, you never know," he told the Friday editions of several British newspapers. "You don't know where you are going to be tomorrow, in a week's time, or in 10 years' time.

"I've had a lot of admiration for 'Cholo' (Simeone), ever since we were team-mates. He taught me a lot in the seasons we played together at Atleti."

Torres, 30, has failed to impress since joining Chelsea from Liverpool for a British-record fee of £50 million in January 2011, scoring only 44 times in 161 appearances.

His status was further undermined recently when

manager Jose Mourinho was shown on French television complaining that Chelsea "lack a scorer" during a conversation recorded without his knowledge.

Simeone is enjoying a fine season with Atletico, who are challenging for the Spanish title and have reached the Champions League quarterfinals, and Torres says that he would be intrigued to work with him.

"I always want to work with people I admire," added Torres, who left Atletico to join Liverpool in 2007. "I admired Rafa Benitez from the outside and I had the chance to work with him (at Liverpool and Chelsea).

The same goes for Jose Mourinho or (former Atletico and Spain coach) Luis Aragones. "Simeone is like Pep Guardiola or like other coaches who you'd like to go and see how they coach and learn."

LoNDoN, MARCH 21 (iANS): World and Olympic 100 metres champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce will open her Diamond League campaign in Doha.

The 27-year-old Jamaican starred at the 2012 London Olympics with a gold in the 100m and again at the 2013 Moscow World Championships, taking the sprint double. Recently, she dominated the World Indoors in Poland, cap-

turing the 60m title and will line-up in Doha in the 100m. “I enjoy running in Doha. The stadium is close and intimate which makes you feel connected with the fans," said Fraser-Pryce.

Last year, Fraser-Pryce won the 200m in Doha and in Zurich, to finish the season tops over the halflap. That triumph saw her complete the sprint double for the season. “The 200 metres is the event I

want to get better at. I am doing okay but I believe there is a lot more to give, so this season a lot will be placed on being better and faster at the 200 metres.

Capturing another double would definitely top the year for me. Let`s see what happens," she said. Fellow Jamaican Kerron Stewart and Blessing Okagbare of Nigeria have both been confirmed for the meet carded for May 9.

Entertainment

The Morung Express C M Y K

Alia Bhatt to collaborate with LMFAO’s RedFoo A

lia Bhatt, who considers herself as a bathroom singer, is not only a talented performer but a very good singer as well. At this early stage of her career, she

is all set to prove her singing talents internationally.

After receiving much praise for her debut singing with the legendary AR Rahman in Imtiaz Ali’s ‘Highway’, the young and dashing actress is all set to add another feather to her cap.

Sources tell us that the electric pop artist, RedFoo from LMFAO will be meeting the lovely lass over a private luncheon in a five star suburban hotel to discuss possible collaborations on the music

front. What’s more there are talks going on between the management agencies of Ali making an appearance on stage for the very first time as a singer and more like a pop artist. LMFAO members, we hear, are open to this idea since they are fascinated by Indian cinema and its actors and actresses.

Admitting that she’s a huge fan of LMFAO, Alia says, When I heard that my close friend Kunal Jain is bringing them to India for the first time, I was like this is it. In fact, my friends have suggested that I should consider doing a fun high energy song with him ever since Highway released, which I can use exclusively in my next film probably. But I will be performing on stage with Red Foo and man it just gives me goose

bumps. I’m already planning my wardrobe.

RedFoo along with the Party Rock Crew are slated to performonthe22ndofMarch 2014 at Huda Grounds, Gurgaon and 23rd of March 2014 at Wilson Gymkhana, Mumbai. Pegged as the one of the most grooviest musician in the global music industry with the entire nation rocking to LMFAO’s dramatic music and moves, RedFoo from the American electro pop duo is all set to put up scintillating concerts for the very first time in the city of New Delhi and Mumbai.

The glitzy youth icon and the godfather of party rocking is all set to give fans a taste of smashing chartbusters like Let’s Get Ridiculous, Party Rock Anthem , Sexy and I Know It, I Am In Miami Bitch, Champagne Showers, Bring Out the Bottles, Sorry For Party Rocking and Shots. Known for his heart winning performances across the globe, the hot stepper will be visiting the sub-continent to officially launch and promote his new singles.

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to join ‘Fast & Furious 7’ team in Abu Dhabi

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he shooting of Hollywood film “Fast & Furious 7”, which had been postponed following actor Paul Walker`s sudden demise in a car crash, will be resumed with a schedule in Abu Dhabi.

Bollywood actor Ali Fazal will join the team. “Yes, I will be joining the `Fast & Furious` gang soon.

We have to finish the filming,” said the actor, who has earlier featured in Hindi films like ‘3 Idiots’, ‘Always Kabhi Kabhi’ and ‘Fukrey’.

Though the dates have not been sent to Ali, he has been told

to keep himself ready to leave for Abu Dhabi at the end of this month. The shooting will resume in the first week of April.

Ali also plays the romantic lead opposite Vidya Balan in ‘Bobby Jasoos’. Since he would be required in Mumbai for promoting the film which is expected to release around June, he is hoping that the shooting schedules of ‘Fast & Furious 7’ don`t clash with the promotion of ‘Bobby Jasoos’. Earlier, the actor had said that he has just a cameo in the Hollywood film.

Police re-examine Kurt Cobain case

American band R5 were thrilled when they got to ‘twerk’ with One Direction.

Trendz-O-Mania – 3rd Annual Fashion Show of TGOUN C M Y K

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n 26th March, four graduating designer students of The Global Open University Nagaland (TGOUN), Department of Fashion Technology, will be showcasing their designs at Molu Ki, Paramedical, Kohima. Trendz-O-Mania is the third Annual Fashion Show cum graduation of the TGOUN to display the hard work and creative talents of the graduating students. The students are judged on the basis of their presentation, themes, quality of fabric, creativity, style and market savvy. The four graduating designers are Theja Sekhose, Moarenla Tzudir, Pete Sophie, and Rosy Kent.

Theja Sekhose, whose design theme is ‘Regal Spell’ describes his design as high-fashion winter collection of

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olice in Seattle, Washington have re-examined the investigation into Kurt Cobain’s death but decided not to reopen the case because they found no new evidence.

Police in Seattle, Washington have re-examined the investigation into Kurt Cobain’s death.

The King County Sheriff’s Office recently assigned a detective to look into the files, almost 20 years after the Nirvana frontman was found dead in his home in the city, and he developed four rolls of 35 mm film depicting images from the scene of the rocker’s death that had been sitting in the evidence vault. But he decided not to reopen the case, as there were no new findings.

Police spokesperson Renee Witt told the Seattle

Times ‘’He dug up the files and had another look and there was nothing new.’’

The Seattle Police Department also wrote on Twitter ‘’Despite an erroneous news report, we have not ‘reopened’ the investigation into the suicide of Kurt Cobain. ‘’Our detective reviewed the case file anticipating questions surrounding the closed Cobain case as the 20 yr anniversary approaches (sic).’’

An electrician found the ‘Smells Like Teen Spirit’ hitmaker’s body on April 8, 1994. An autopsy revealed that the 27-yearold singer died from a selfinflicted shotgun wound and had a lethal amount of heroin in his bloodstream.

His death was ruled a suicide by the medical examiner.

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“Nagaland is a very fashionable state, but people are not aware of the scope of fashion. In four or five years, the fashion industry will be one of the most progressive industries.” said Rosou Rhi, faculty member.

Chekrovolu Swuro, first female Naga Olympian and recipient of Arjuna Award 2013 will make a special appearance at the show with Kuzholuzo Nienu, Minister Roads & Bridges as the Man of the Event. The judges are Theja Haralu, Modovina Mocha and Kuthonulu S Venuh.

The department of Fashion Technology was established in 2009 and offers Bachelor of Business Administration in Fashion Design and six months certificate course on basic garment construction and surface ornamentation in fabric. Tickets are available at the TGOUN Kohima office and at the venue and are rated Rs. 1000 for two with special gift packages.

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India avenge Asia Cup humiliation

NEW DELhi, March 21 (TNN): India thrashed Pakistan by seven wickets in the World T20 opener to keep their unbeaten records against the arch rivals in World Cups intact. The men in blue avenged their Asia cup humiliation in style as they chased down the 131-run target with 9 balls to spare at the Shere-Bangla National Cricket Stadium on Friday.

Virat Kohli remained the top scorer for India as he stayed unbeaten after scoring 36 while Suresh Raina scored 35 not out.

Earlier, Dhawan (30) and Rohit Sharma (24) got India off to a fiery start after spinners performed admirably to restrict Pakistan to a modest 130 for seven.

The duo shared 54-run stand for the first wicket.

India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni's decision to field three specialist spinners -- Amit Mishra, Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin -- and bowl first on a slowish track was vindicated as the trio gave away only 63 runs between them in the 12 overs and also removed three Pakistan batsmen, thereby putting brakes on their scoring rate.

Mishra (2/22), Jadeja (1/18) and Ashwin (0/23) all got a bit of help from the track which had a bit of bite and turn on offer.

While Ashwin bowled round the wicket to deny the batsmen any room to chance their arms, Jadeja bowled wicket to wicket with the odd delivery turning away from the righthander. Mishra too was bang on target with his flighted leg breaks and varied the length of his deliveries and pace through the air. Dhoni rotated his bowlers brilliantly not letting the opposition batsmen to get away easily, frequently changing the ends.

For Pakistan, only Umar Akmal looked good during his 30-ball 33-run knock but couldn't go on to get a big score.

Kamran Akmal hit a couple boundaries --- one each off Ashwin and medium pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar (1/21) before his partner Ahmed Shehzad's indiscretion brought about his downfall.

The call was Shehzad's,

Netherlands beat Ireland

India's batsmen Suresh Raina, second right, and Virat Kohli, right, celebrate their victory over Pakistan in the ICC Twenty20 Cricket World Cup match in Dhaka on March 21. (AP Photo)

who came halfway down the track only to retreat back as Akmal couldn't make it back to his crease.

Bhuvneshwar did well to pick up and throw down the stumps on his followthrough.

Skipper Mohammad Hafeez (15) never looked comfortable during his 22ball stay at the wicket. He should have been gone for five had his mistimed pull off Mohammed Shami been taken by a diving Yuvraj Singh at deep square leg boundary.

But it did not cost India dearly as Hafeez gave Jadeja the charge only to mistime the shot and give a

skier that was pounced well

by Bhuvneshwar.

Shehzad (22 off 17 balls) did the initial hard work but Mishra out-thought him with a flighted delivery that turned away after pitching.

It was a classical leg-break that drew the batsman forward and beat by flight as Dhoni gleefully whipped off the bails.

Umar Akmal played himself while Shoaib Malik (18) announced his arrival with a huge straight six off Mishra. The duo added 50 runs in seven overs but that certainly wasn't enough.

Malik could have been out on 14 when he pulled an Ashwin carrom ball

which Bhuvneshwar diving in-front failed to catch as the ball went past the boundary ropes.

But Mishra had his revenge when Malik was holed out at long-off boundary by Raina. Umar also followed suit lofting Shami to Raina at long-off.

Shahid Afridi's (8) hit and miss game didn't work today as he tried to sweep Bhuvneshwar but gave Raina, his third catch of the day in the deep.

While Sohaib Maqsood hit Shami for a six and four to score a quickfire 21 off 11 balls, it wasn't enough for Pakistan to get to a decent score.

SYLhET, March 21 (PTi): The Netherlands smashed the record for most sixes in an innings on their way to upsetting Ireland in Sylhet on Friday, romping into the Super-10 stages in the World Twenty20. Wesley Barresi hit Tim Murtagh over midwicket for the 19th six of the innings to seal an emphatic six wicket win as the Netherlands chased down a daunting 190-run target in just 13.5 overs.

Their rampaging victory means the Netherlands qualify for the Super-10 from Group B at the expense of more fancied Zimbabwe and Ireland. They join Group One in the next round. In all 30 sixes were hit in the match beating the previous record of 24 set by New Zealand and India at Christchurch in 2009.

Australia previously held the record for most sixes in a Twenty20 innings with 18, smashed against England at Southampton last year. The Netherlands needed to notch the target in 14.2 overs and they owed their exhilarating chase to a fiery 23-ball 63 by opener Stephan Myburgh, 15-ball 45 by Tom Cooper and an unbeaten 22-ball 40 by Barresi. The defeat was a heartbreak for Ireland who beat Zimbabwe in their opening match but they failed to stop the rampaging Dutch led by Myburgh.

Myburgh was in a punishing mood as he smashed three sixes in offspinner Andy McBrine's second over of the innings and then as many sixes and one boundary in one Alex Cusack's over. He then brought up his second Twenty20 fifty in the event with a sweetly timed boundary off Tim Murtagh, off just 17 deliveries.

The left-hander equalled the second fastest T20 fifty set by rival opener Paul Stirling, hit against Afghanistan in Dubai two years ago. The record for the fastest T20 fifty is held

by India's Yuvraj Singh who hit a 12-ball fifty against England in Durban in 2007.

Myburgh, who smashed seven sixes and four boundaries, finally holed out off George Dockrell at deep mid-wicket boundary with the total at 98.

NSS Winter adventure Camp 2013-2014

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KOhiMa, March 21 (MExN): The Program Officer along with 19th NSS Volunteers from Science College, Jotsoma and Zisaji Presidency College, Kiphire successfully completed the 10 days Winter Adventure Camp 2013-14 at Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports (ABVIMAS) Manali, HP. The team was led by Vanthungo Jami, Program Officer, NSS Cell, Unit Kiphire. Volunteers from Kiphire started their journey on February 27 and reached Dimapur the next day. Science College NSS Volunteers reached Dimapur on February 28 evening. All the team members lodged at the Hotel for one night and boarded the Train the next morning. As per the scheduled the team reached Delhi on March 3, and boarded the Manali bus the same morning.

On reaching the institute, Registration for all the members was completed by 10:00 am ( March 4). Briefing and welcome address was delivered by the Hostel i/c Gautam Thakur. Volunteers were also briefed on Team spirit, discipline, attitude, and about the institute. On 5th of March, Lecture was de-

livered by the Training i/c.

Lecture was on education role of the students as an NSS Volunteer, Maintaining of Walking Manners and about the Training.

On March 6 all the NSS Volunteers trekked 23 Kilometers from Manali to Solang Valley. Training course was scheduled at Solang Valley the next day.

Training continued for Five days and after the completion of the training Cultural Program was held on March 11. Volunteers from Kiphire presented Sangtam Folk song. Volunteers from Nagaland left the Institute on March 13 where as volunteers from Assam and Meghalaya departed on 12th Evening. While returning back to Nagaland, the team visited Red Fort and Lotus Temple at Delhi. The team members reached Dimapur on 19th March 2013, and went to their respective places.

All the Team Members successfully completed the Adventure Camp(Skiing), River Crossing, Trekking, Camping, Mountain Rescue Methods, Survival, Social Awareness and Leadership. The Adventure Training was conducted in the wilderness of the Himalayas.

Colombian singer Shakira, right, and FC Barcelona's soccer player Gerard Pique pose to the media during the presentation of her new album "Shakira" in Barcelona, Spain on March 20. (AP Photo)

Serena, Sharapova through to third round

Maria Sharapova, of Russia, acknowledges the crowd after defeating Kurumi Nara, of Japan, 6-3, 6-4 at the Sony Open tennis tournament on March 20 in Key Biscayne, Fla. (AP Photo)

MiaMi, March 21 (aFP): Six-time winner Serena Williams survived a first-set scare before overcoming Yaroslava Shvedova 7-6 (9/7), 6-2 on Thursday to power into the third round of the ATP and WTA Miami Masters. The topseeded defending champion will next face France's Caroline Garcia after dispatching her Kazak rival in one hour, 45 minutes. "The first set was really tough.

She can make you play. She was hitting the ball well," Williams said.

"I had to relax and try to

keep my intensity and just try to get the win." Fourth seed Maria Sharapova, the 2013 runner-up to Williams, outlasted Japan's Kurumi Nara 6-3, 6-4 in another opening test. Williams lost a 3-1 lead and trailed 3-5 as Shvedova shifted her game up a gear.

Williams got back on track in the nick of time with a break for 5-all. A love game then ended with an ace for Williams before the set went to a tie-breaker. In the decider, the 32-year-old Williams saved three set points as a nervous Shve-

dova missed her big upset chance in front of a screaming house full of her rival's supporters.

In one dramatic moment, a fight broke out in the upper deck of spectators, forcing a pause for security to intervene after Shvedova had double-faulted on her second set point.

After she also missed on a third, the Kazak handed over a set point to Williams, who finally finished off the 63-minute set on her second opportunity.

Williams tried to steady the second after a pair of breaks and finally won going away as she aced on her first match point to book a date with Garcia, who beat Czech Klara Zakopalova 7-6 (7/3), 7-6 (7/3).

Sharapova was down 1-3 in the 64-minute second set before rallying to beat Nara, who won her first WTA title in Rio de Janeiro last month. "She made me work extremely hard," said Sharapova.

"She's a really quick opponent, got a lot of balls back, and she made me hit a lot.

She made me try to do too much in certain situations.

"Sometimes I felt like I was doing the right mistakes and sometimes I felt like I should have been more patient, but I guess those are the situations you want to build that match confidence again."

Four-time Grand Slam champion Sharapova, who next faces Lucie Safarova, was coming off a thirdround loss at Indian Wells to qualifier Camila Giorgi.

Sania-Cara pair advances at Sony Open

MiaMi, March 21 (PTi): Sania Mirza and Cara Black fought their way into the second round even as Leander Paes made his third first round exit in five tournaments this year when he lost his opening round at the Sony Open with partner Radek Stepanek.

Sania and Zimbabwe's Cara, seeded fifth, faced stiff resistance from the unseeded Taipei pair of HaoChing Chan and Yung-Jan Chan before prevailing 6-3 6-7(8) 10-8 in the first round of the $5,427,105 WTA Premier tournament.

They next face Georgia's Oksana Kalashnikova and Russia's Alisa Kleybanova.

In the $5,649,405 men's tournament, being held simultaneously, fourth seeded Paes and his Czech partner Stepanek suffered an upset first round defeat against American Eric Butorac and Raven Klaasen 3-6 6-7 (7).

At season-opener event in Chennai and then in Sydney also Paes and Stepanek had

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made a first round exit. The pair had reached quarterfinals of the Australian Open and Indian Wells Masters.

India's challenge is still alive in the men's doubles as Rohan Bopanna and Mahesh Bhupathi are yet to play.

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