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www.morungexpress.com
Dimapur VOL. IX ISSUE 79
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The Morung Express www.morungexpress.com
You can do very little with faith, but you can do nothing without it
BJP is being encroached by outsiders: Jaswant Singh [ PAGE 8]
reflections
By Sandemo Ngullie
I have no problem with Land grabbing, breaking and entering. But threatening people! Aren’t you ashamed?
SSA teachers urged to call off strike KOHIMA, MARCH 22 (MExN): The Department of School Education, Nagaland has appealed to the Nagaland SSA Teachers’ Association (NSSATA) to call off the pen down strike. Urging the SSA teachers to resume their duties, the Principal Director, School Education, Kesonyu Yhome, IAS, in a press release stated, “the Directorate of School Education would like to make this earnest appeal to the SSA teachers to call off the strike since the reason for the inability to release the pending salaries and arrears has been made clear which is an issue beyond the control of the State Government and the Department.” It reiterated the department’s stand that pending salaries will be released “once the GOI sanctions the 2nd Instalment,” while adding, “(it) is imminent.”
NSSATA 2nd phase agitation from today
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KOHIMA, MARCH 22 (MExN): In view of the upcoming parliamentary elections, the Kohima Police has enhanced security measures around the district and also begun the enforcement of the Model Code of Conduct. In this connection, one company each from the Mizoram Armed Police and the 155 Bn. BSF have already reported to the district for election duties and are engaged in pre-poll duties, stated a press release from SDPO Kohima. It was also informed to all passengers embarking and disembarking from the Lerie Heliport that their baggage and person will be subject to search and frisking. Passengers embarking from Kohima have been requested to report at least one hour before the scheduled flight.
Sunday, March 23, 2014 12 pages Rs. 4 –Samuel Butler
India must do away with her dream to annex Nagaland: FGN president [ PAGE 2]
[ PAGE 11]
Pope warns mobsters they risk going to hell
Chelsea Destroy Arsenal [ PAGE 12]
[ PAGE 9]
World Water Day: ‘If you nagaland have water, you are rich’ KOHIMA, MARCH 22 (MExN): Putting forward water concerns in relation with the theme, “Water and Energy”, the Sustainable Development Forum Nagaland (SDFN) in collaboration with the Regional Centre, National Afforestation and Eco-Development Board (NAEB), Department of Soil & Water Conservation and Department of Power, today made a landmark achievement by organizing World Water Day for the first time in Nagaland State. After thorough deliberations on the papers presented on the topics, “Kohima Water Study”, “Water and Biodiversity”, “Water, Rain and Data”, and “Water and Energy” respectively, the seminar formulated ways forward, suggesting measures and recommendations for the State Government to adopt as a means to improve livelihood of the people, considering its direct impact on humanity. The recommendations, amongst others, stressed on the need to conduct research and studies on women and water, quality of drinking water, study of key catchment areas and river ecosystems in Nagaland while calling for revival of traditional water springs and for each village to have vision documents. It further called upon the State Government to have a concrete plan on rain water harvesting system and frame a State environment and forest policy as the national policy in this regard is not applicable to Naga-
A young girl is seen drawing water from a well for household purposes on Saturday. 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. (Photo by Sungjem Pongen)
land State due to a different land holding system. The seminar also called for the need to check on the random issue of mining license, apart from the development of a policy for equity sharing instead of compensation for land. It recommended that the export of unfinished forest products from the State be stopped, further express-
ing concern on population explosion and the need for the Government to iron out conflicting policies and the need for land use plan and strategy development. Addressing the opening session earlier, Chairperson of Nagaland State Women Commission, Dr. Temsula Ao pointed to the alarming shortage of water worldwide while impress-
ing upon water and its importance in the maintenance and wellbeing of the human species. Quoting a Changki saying, “If you have Water, if you have firewood, you are rich,” she related to the past and added, “the streams from which water is being extracted were nurtured almost as sacred sites and guarded by village laws for its purity.” Stating that our present context of long rows of empty containers begs a host of questions, she asked, “have we been guilty of neglecting to ensure proper distribution of water? Why have we not taken rain harvesting seriously?” She impressed upon that shortage of water can be socially disruptive while elaborating that it could lead to social disruptions. In this regard, she also said, we are faced with manmade shortage and urged that, “we have to introspect and come out with workable solutions.” Former Chief Secretary and Advisor to SDFN, Alemtemshi Jamir IAS remarked that the only source of water in Nagaland is rain. “We have nothing except rain,” he pointed out while noting that despite meager resources, there are conflicts even amongst us. He said that climate change is a reality, therefore urging on the need to start thinking of policies. “Our immediate concern is how to bring in the legal systems,” he emphasized, while adding that, “our forefathers could make a law but then it’s up to us to make such systems available.”
govt turns to nsDZs Nagaland Special Development Zones: resolution introduced Our Correspondent Kohima | March 22
Minister for planning & coordination, evaluation and geology & mining T.R. Zeliang today moved a government resolution to introduce the setting up of Nagaland Special Development Zones (NSDZs) at the ongoing assembly session here. Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) Speaker, Chotisuh Sazo, said the resolution will be considered on March 24. The resolution stated that there is an imperative to promote and facilitate faster industrialization and urbanization of Nagaland, “to achieve faster growth and development of the State’s economy, and to generate more employment opportunity for the youths.” The Government of Nagaland has resolved to create NSDZs along the foothills of the State, wherever possible. By tradition, noted the resolution, almost all Naga villages are on hill tops, with serious problems of logistics in providing infrastructure for development such as roads and other means of communication, water supply, electricity etc., and whereas on account of these, the people of the State have to gradually come down to the low lying areas of the State to take advantage of better facilities available there, that could eventually meet the aspirations of the future generations. The resolution stated the exact identification and demarcation of the areas to be included in the NSDZs will be done by the State Government, in consultation with Deputy Commissioners, tribe Hohos and the people/land owners concerned. After this, cadastral survey of land concerned will have to be carried out and a proper system of issuing pattas to land owners have to be established. The resolution said that the State Government will acquire only such lands in the NSDZs that are essentially required for setting up common infrastructure and facilities
needed for proper development and functioning of the NSDZs. In order to make the NSDZs viable, the Nagaland State Government will simultaneously undertake construction of a four lane foot-hill road from Tizit, Mon District, in the North to Khelma, Peren district, in the South, which will provide road connectivity to the NSDZs. The Indian Railways have also approved the construction of a new rail line along the foothills of Nagaland from Dimapur to Tizit, which will also enhance the success and viability of the NSDZs. Therefore, the resolution stated, this House approves the constitution of a Ministerial Committee comprising 9 members in total, headed by the Chief Minister with the Chief Secretary as member-secretary, with powers to co-opt reasonable number of members of the NLA and also a High Powered Committee headed by the Chief Secretary with the Development Commissioner as member-secretary to assist the ministerial committee who shall review the existing State laws/orders/instructions with a view to amending them to make the NSDZs effective. It will also review and reorient the Nagaland State Industrial Policy with a view to liberalizing entry of, and investment from, non-Nagas and other investors in the NSDZs, to formulate a master plan for NSDZs, to issue instructions to all departments to reorient their annual plans in consonance with the master plan for NSDZs, to suggest mechanisms for cadastral survey of lands falling in NSDZ areas and evolving a system of registration of ownership of lands and issue of patta thereof, to evolve as system of permanent settlement for Non-Nagas for the purpose of investment in the NSDZs in all form of special land access permits to be issued by the State Government in this behalf and to liberalize the system of entry and stay of non-Nagas in the NSDZs for the purpose of investment. The House approved that the Ministerial and High Powered Committee shall consult land owners, tribe Hohos, civil societies and others concerned while evolving framework and mechanisms with regard to NSDZs. Assembly news on page 5
PorK ProDUcers tAlK ABoUt: Market, Hygiene, organization
Meanwhile, NSSATA announced that it will launch its second phase of agitation. “The association stands firm on its decision and declares that the 2nd (second) phase of agitation in the form of ‘indefinite boycott of classes’ will start w.e.f 23rd of March, 2014,” stated a press release from the NSSATA. While contending that the authorities should solve the “present issue” if the government is really concerned about students welfare, the NSSATA asserted that it will not accept any second party negotiating on its behalf with Participants at the Commercial Piggery Workshop, organized by Youth Net’s ‘Impact 5000 the government.
Security measures enhanced in Kohima
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by 18’ at the Nagaland Bamboo Resource Centre from March 18-22, 2014
Morung Express News Dimapur | March 22
With the amount of pork meat consumed in Nagaland, its market value is pinned at over Rs. 200 crore annually. The daily consumer market contributes to nearly Rs. 163 crore (taken @ Rs. 170/kg), a season of weddings (only in Dimapur and Kohima) make up over Rs. 25 crore and other festivals (including church functions) make up over Rs. 78 crore. Unfortunately, it is not local pig farmers who primarily benefit from this market. Under ‘Impact 5000 by 18’, meant to build a healthier and vibrant private sector, the Youth Net organized a Commercial Piggery Workshop from March 18-22 at the Nagaland Bamboo Resource Centre, Dimapur in order to bring some of these issues to the fore, and how, in effect, to scale up pig farming in Nagaland. Participating in the workshop were 15 local pig
farmers, mostly from Dimapur, but also from Longleng and Zunheboto. Pig farmers, over the past decade, have identified why the problem remains for local farmers despite the fact that pork is so widely consumed here— high cost of pig feed, high taxation that affects this in Nagaland and the lack of meat processing facilities. This was highlighted at a press conference marking the end of the Workshop by representatives from the Nagaland Pig Farmer’s Association (NPFA), which has a membership of 40 registered pig farmers. The maximum number of pigs bred by any of these farmers is 125. Not many can make it past a few years in pig farming in Nagaland due to pressures from the market—supply pork, however unhygienic, is available for a cheaper price. And where does one buy this local produce of pork meat from? There is no separate market space
created for this in Nagaland till day. Supply pork, on the other hand, which is available aplenty, has raised questions on its hygiene quotient. While Resource Consultant for the Workshop, Dr. Simon Ao, highlighted these issues with a thorough report, pig farmer from Zunheboto, Tukheli Aye, pointed out that “our sicknesses begin from unhygienic breeding of pork—sanitation should begin from here!” She stressed on the need for high standard (hygienic and clean) local markets and need for government subsidies. Other things required are clean slaughter house facilities, technological assistance and technical knowledge to upscale pig farms and infrastructure to expand these farms. The possibilities for self employment here are numerous. “The positive aspect of young people taking pig farming up is that we are ready to change tradi-
tional mindsets and methods,” said Achum Ngullie, a young person who has been taking care of a piggery for nine years now. While the seniors stressed on the need for professional methods of pig farming to be taken up on priority basis, the young lot encouraged the immense prospects the field has in Nagaland. “We request the government and allied departments to help us organize a festival for our produce,” said farmer K. Katy (also general secretary, NPFA), which will encourage local pig farmers. While suggesting educative visits outside the State, he said, “Only by learning and getting perspectives can we grow.” “The method of rearing pigs in Nagaland is quite hygienic. Government schemes and programs need to highlight the commercial aspect of pig rearing instead of the livelihood aspect to help local producers,” suggested Dr. Simon Ao, who could then become “independent.” While there is no doubt that government intervention might be required to boost the circumstances in which local pork producers thrive, it is also essential that “farmers organize themselves,” as Program Lead for the Workshop, Abokali Jimomi highlighted. Organization could be a crucial aspect to implement the above discussions that the Workshop facilitated.
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Dimapur
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Sunday 23 March 2014
India must do away with her dream to annex Nagaland: FGN president
The Morung Express C
Hollotoli School Primary Section celebrates Annual Day
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NNC/FGN CElEbRATEs NAGAlANd REpublIC dAy
Kohima, march 22 (mExN): FGN president Gen (retd) Viyalie Metha today expressed, “our mind is filled with mixed feeling of happiness and sadness.” At the celebration of 59th Republic Day of Naga Nationhood at Chedema Peace Camp, the president articulated happiness that “by God’s grace our Nation’s foundation was secured and laid on the solid rock that no power can deny us our right.” But at the same time, “there is sadness, because our country is still under siege of invaders: the Indian occupational forces.” India is a Nation proud of her greatness in democracy and champion of ‘Ahimsa’ non-violence written in her history, but before long, a new chapter revealed the war with Nagas began in 1954 that was within seven years of India becoming independent, the president asserted. He recounted that Nagas could get hardly a breathing space by 1964 when an International Cease-Fire agreement was signed between Government of India and Federal Government of Nagaland. However, sooner than later, India deviated and evaded
(Left) FGN President Gen (retd) Viyalie Metha, and (middle) NNC President Adinno Phizo during the celebration of 59th Republic Day of Naga Nationhood at Chedema Peace Camp.
the truth to settle the Indo-Naga conflict. “Thus, a record breaking time of unresolved conflict in the modern history has been made and because of this, we on our part are suffering without ceasing and India on her part the image of her greatness is fast vanishing. India must do away with her dream to annex Nagaland.” The president affirmed that the policy of the Naga National Council (NNC) and Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN) is to maintain peace and tranquility in the land and
peaceful co-existence with all Nations. Thus, the FGN, “while taking utmost restraint against any confrontations, the counter-part, India took advantage to use few gullible Nagas as its henchmen, to kill Nagas.” To the “elite groups”, Gen (retd) Viyalie Metha fervently requested to come forward and make use of their intellect and wisdom towards nation building rather than accusing and abusing each other through the media. “Confidently, time has come for uniting our hearts for the
good cause of the nation; that is ‘Urra Uvie’- Our country is ours,” he said. “The voice of the Nagas speaks simple and clear that tells India ‘withdraw your occupational forces from our land – Nagaland’.” Further stating that Naga people were known for their hospitality, honesty and independence; in legal matter, any dispute, whether civil or criminal were promptly settled according to traditional customary practice and no dispute were left pending, he asserted this culture
and tradition are meant for “us” to uphold, protect and preserve for posterity. “We shall not allow alien culture into Naga society.” The president also stated, time and again “unscrupulous exploitations were warned, but sadly, some self-seeking people under cover of enemy power continue to violate the national stand.” Such activity must be stopped, he added. He further explained that the Yehzabo of Nagaland was based on the common ideals of Democracy, Justice, Liberty, Equality and Fraternity. Every citizen regardless of sex is equal in the eye of the law. So also, any one born of Naga blood is a citizen and a member of the Naga National Council (NNC). “And our nation needs all right thinking citizen to stand together for the common purpose.” Earlier, the programme was chaired by L. Yirei, Midan Peyu, Wung Region, while Razouvolie, pastor CBC, Chedema read the scripture and proposed the prayer. Special songs were presented by CRC Chedema village. Neiselie, pastor, CRC Chedema village pronounced the benediction. Full text on page 4
Students of Hollotoli School Primary Wing, Dimapur perform during the Annual Day Programme on March 22 at the School Auditorium. (Morung Photo)
Dimapur, march 22 (mExN): Students of Hollotoli School Primary Wing, Dimapur performed before a huge audience for the Annual Day Programme on March 22, 2014. “Over the Rainbow”– the theme for the Annual Day offered a coordinated picture of the issues afflicting the society we live in. The annual school day programme was like no other. Students, with the help of their teachers, presented a well thought out programme highlighting
the issues afflicting the society. The children were able to emphatically bring out social concerns and issues like how we treat orphans, the plight of child labour and many more through beautiful words and convincing performances. The celebrations began with children in beautiful costumes representing ‘Our beautiful world’, which was followed by an Acapella song ‘Drop in the bucket’, Irish dance, musical play, Hindi musical, and a fusion dance. The children also
presented a moving Choreography with the message that, “There are no strangers, there are no outcasts, and there are no orphans”. The highlight of the evening was a play titled, “Our Story- Free the Children” on the existing issue of child labour in India. The children raised the issue of exploitation of children for labour and how it can be ended. The parents seemed to enjoy the programme thoroughly, connecting to the messages presented by their little children.
bJp emergency meeting
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Dimapur, march 22 (mExN): Bharatiya Janata Party, Nagaland Unit, has called an emergency office bearers’ meeting on March 24, 1:00 pm at the party office, Dimapur, and state executives meeting on March 26, 2:00 pm at Bookmarc Dimapur. Therefore, all office bearers and district presidents and district general secretaries have been requested to attend the said meetings positively.
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Teachers training for NBCC member schools in Peren & Dimapur
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Dimapur, march 22 (mExN): The School Ministry of Nagaland Baptist Church Council (NBCC) is organizing teachers training in three disciplines (Mathematics, English and Music) for NBCC member schools under Peren and Dimapur districts. The training will be held from April 2 - 4, 2014 at Christian Higher Secondary School Dimapur. All the Headmasters/ Headmistresses have been requested to send three teachers, one from each discipline to the training. For registration and training materials, a sum of Rs. 200/- will be realized from each participant. For those who are away from Dimapur town, food and lodging will (LEFT) A woman with her children washes clothes at Dhansari River in Dimapur on World Water Day. Observed on March 22, World Water Day, calls for international atten- be arranged at CLC Restaurant at the rate of Rs. 500/- for tion on preservation of the world's drinking water resources and conflicts and natural disasters on urban water systems. (RIGHT) A boy drinks water from a hand pump on the entire training. For further information, contact Rev. World Water Day in Dimapur. Photos by Caisii Mao Dr. Mechiehol Savi, School Coordinator, at 8974266626.
TASU asks reimbursement, warns of road blockade
TiziT, march 22 (mExN): Tizit Area Students' Union (TASU) has asked the department concerned for reimbursement of the expenditure made by the public in repairing the Namtola-Tizit border bridge on March 21. TASU in a press release stated that it had repaired the bridge, which connects the entire Mon district through contribution by the public. It lamented that the government remained a blind spectator to the problem
faced by the people and did not take any initiative to repair the wrecked bridge which got damaged on March 16. The list of expenses, the Union said, will be submitted to the SDO concerned. It warned that if government fails to reimburse, TASU will not allow any government vehicles to ply on the bridge for which government should not blame the union for taking the law in its own hands. TASU also asked the ad-
ministration concerned to negotiate with Assam administration with regard to site-clearance for the construction of RCC Bridge between Namtola and Tizit at the earliest as the present wooden bridge would not survive this monsoon. TASU also thanked police personnel, mills, business associations and especially Green Ply industry, Tizit for assisting and contributing during the repair works. Meanwhile, TASU also appealed the contractor/
department concerned to start repairing the “ever deteriorating” roads at Tizit sub-division before the monsoon. It claimed that the roads have been unattended for about a decade causing untold hardship to the commuters, especially for the autos and other LMVs; and people living close to the roadside because of dust. The Union warned that turning deaf ears to this appeal may invite road blockade from the students' body.
Past Rotary International President visits Nagaland
Rotarians and others interact during the visit of Past Rotary International President to Kohima on March 22.
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Kohima, march 22 (mExN): “If you want to live up to the 21st Century, you have to mend your ways, be disciplined and think of others,” said Kalyan Banerjee, Past Rotary International President during his visit to Kohima on March 22 at The Heritage, Kohima. The welcome address was given by Rosemary Dzüvichü, President, Rotary Club Kohima while a speech was given by Kalpana Khound, PDG Rtn. Special numbers were presented by Rotarian Theja Meru and young boys from the Kohima Orphanage. The program was followed by a brief interactive session where students and civil society leaders raised questions and solutions on the problems
faced in Nagaland with special emphasis on education. “It is time to go beyond ourselves and start touching others’ life,” said Kalpana Khound who gave a brief introduction on Rotary’s total literacy mission while asserting that Nagaland is a place of motivation. Khound also stated that it was because of the efforts of the Rotary club in Nagaland that spread public awareness programs in the eradication of polio in Nagaland. “India is the country of the future. There is no country in the world that has so much culture of what India have. And there is tremendous unity in our diversity.” said Kalyan Banerjee while encouraging the youth to learn
from the outside world yet to come back and change the nation. Kalyan Banerjee is a Chemical Engineer by profession and was born in Gujarat in 1942. He was the 101 Rotary International President and the third President from India. Rotary is the world’s oldest fellowship organization which has worked for various peace programs in the world and provides the world’s largest number of scholarships to post graduate studies and has 1.23 million members all over the world. Members of Rotary Club Kohima, representatives of ENPO, Naga Mothers Association, students of Nagaland University and Law College Kohima, and media personnel attended the meeting.
Governor asserts on successful implementation of RTE Act
Kohima, march 22 (mExN): Governor of Nagaland, Dr. Ashwani Kumar today urged the teachers and the teachers’ training institutes in Nagaland to highlight the history and long term aims and objectives of the Right to Education Act 2009. He was speaking at a function held to donate a bus by State Bank of India to Bosco College of Teachers Education Dimapur at Raj Bhavan, Kohima. “In fact, the importance of this legislation can be felt only when we use the full title ‘The Right of children to Free and Compulsory Education’,” he asserted. Reiterating that the Parliament of India and Nagaland Legislative Assembly have already passed the RTE Act and also established National and State Commissions for Protection of Child Rights, and it is fundamental Right of every child in the age group of six and fourteen to receive free, compulsory and quality education as per prescribed norms, he said no unrecognized schools will be permitted henceforth. No fees will be charged. Books, uniforms and mid day meals will be provided free of cost. Education shall be imparted in a friendly / child centric manner and there will be no detention policy till class VIII. This will enable each Naga child to develop and grow to his/ her full potential. There is no going back on this commitment to our children, he stated.
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Governor Dr. Ashwani Kumar handing over the key of mini bus donated by SBI North East Circle to Rev. Fr. OT Sebastian at Raj Bhavan on March 22. (DIPR Photo)
If anyone has any misgivings or doubts about this policy, the governor said, they must clarify doubts, file a representation before the Commission for Protection of Child Rights or before the State or Central Government. He added that the Supreme Court of India, several High Courts, UNESCO, UNICEF, World Bank have already examined and concluded that the provisions of the Act are in the “best interest of our children, our future generations, our State and our society.” He said that the responsibility for implementation of the Act is on the State Government and its teachers. Further, speaking about some misgivings on the implementation of ‘no detention policy’, the governor cited, “We are told in UK, USA and many other developed countries of the
World, there is no detention policy.” Even in his school, Government Primary School village Kothi, Kinnour district in Himachal Pradesh, back in 1956 – 1961, there was no detention policy up to Class V. Even before this Act of 2009 came into being, he said, in 25 States of India, especially the most advanced States, the no detention policy was being followed. Dr Ashwani Kumar also expressed that there is need to impart more training in Continuous and Comprehensive Evaluation (CCE) to all the teachers. Stating that more tests and examination will need to be conducted under CCE than in the traditional system of holding examinations once a year, he said teachers will be required to take tests on a periodical basis to evaluate the performance and needs of each child. “Un-
less the primary and elementary school teachers are trained and learn these skills of continuous and comprehensive evaluation, it will be difficult to implement the new system.” Therefore, the governor appealed to all the educationists and intellectuals to think of strategies and solutions to move forward on the road of providing free, compulsory and quality education to “our children rather than look backwards and suggest going back to the old system.” The governor also acknowledged the “selfless services” of Bosco College of Teachers Education Dimapur and Salesian Fathers of Roman Catholic Church, which set up the former in 2003. He also lauded the State Bank of India for their voluntary donations under its Corporate Social Responsibility.
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REgional Manipur facing acute drinking water shortage
The Morung Express
Imphal, march 22 (The hIndu): The people in Manipur are facing acute drinking water shortage as the government’s water supply facilities have stopped functioning since the rivers, which are the only sources of water, have gone dry. On the other hand, numerous private traders who have been earning a comfortable income by selling drinking water to each house have hiked the price. The government fire-fighting employees are worried since there is no water in case of fires. Reports say that the major rivers that pass through the Imphal areas, namely the Imphal, the Iril, have gone dry. Besides, smaller rivers like the Nambul have only ankle-deep water-level. There has not been rain for several months in Manipur. All the rivers in Manipur empty into the Loktak, the largest natural lake in Eastern India. But the National Hydroelectric Power Project has been generating 105 MW using the lake water around the clock. This is one of the reasons for the depleting water level since water used by the three turbines is siphoned off towards Assam instead of recycling it. There was a sigh of relief when there were some rains and hailstorm two days ago. But then the rains were too scanty to be of A little girl in full Zeliangrong traditional attire during the Zeliangrong Folk Festival at Langth- meaning or comfort to the abal Khoupum in Imphal West district on Saturday, March 22. (NNN Photo) farmers. Since the water
Naga-Kuki bodies ban on Cong continues Imphal, march 22 (nnn): Kuki Inpi Saikul Gamkai (KISG) and Saikul Area Naga People's Organisation (SANPO) continue to ban the Congress party in Saikul sub-division. The two organisation reiterated their earlier stands of banning the Congress party in the area in the ensuing Lok Sabha elecions. Both the Kuki and Naga organisations have banned the putting up of Congress party flags, banners, and posters. Even plying of vehicles of the party in connection with election campaigns have been strictly prohibited since March 8. In this regard, a talk between the agitating bodies and the Government of Manipur represented by Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam was held on March 18 but resulted in nothing concrete. Another round of talk will be held between the state government and the representatives of KISG and SANPO on March 25. With regard to the ensuing Lok Sabha polls, though election related posters, banners, and canvassing activities of other political parties are seen, nothing of this sort is seen from the Congress party. The two apex social bodies of the Nagas and the Kukis in the sub-division said that they have taken this drastic step as the State Government continues to remain indifferent to the various requests put forth by the two bodies to the State Government of Manipur. The two Kuki and Naga organisations have been demanding the State Government to cancel the Manipur Home Department's orders regarding the police district boundary and police station jurisdictions, wherein, more than 120 villages of Saikul sub-division have been included in the jurisdictions of valley districts' police stations. These orders were issued without the knowledge and consent of the villagers concerned, KISG and SANPO alleged. In this connection several representations have been made to the chief minister and the deputy chief minister to cancel the said orders and also to withdraw all the villages of Saikul subdivision from the jurisdictions of valley districts' police stations but to no avail, KISG and SANPO had rued.
level of the rivers did not increase the water supply situation remains unchanged. The water supply schemes at Chinga, Singda, Poormpat and others had shut down. A government notification says that the supply will be suspended for the time being. All these years, private water suppliers have been earning hefty incomes by delivering drinking water to each house at the rate of Rs. 100 per 500 litres. But in the past few weeks the price has been doubled. Some of these suppliers had closed down shops as there is no raw water for them. The Public Health Engineering Department makes it a point to deliver raw and treated water to the residences of the elected representatives and high officials every day. However sources said that the department is facing issues now since there is no raw water. Meanwhile, traders have been bringing truckloads of bottled water from other NE states for brisk sale in Manipur. Government sources told The Hindu that if the situation does not improve in the coming days the union government will be urged to declare Manipur as a drought-hit state. Health officials also fear that there may be an outbreak of water-borne diseases since the people have to drink impure and contaminated water.
13 held in Assam witch-hunting case GuwahaTI, march 22 (IanS): At least 13 people were arrested Saturday for their alleged involvement in the murder of three members of a family in Assam on suspicion of practicing witchcraft, police said. The victims were identified as Rajendra Brahma (65), his wife Bangali Brahma (60) and their 35-year-old daughter Malati Brahma, police said. Police said the incident took place at Borjhora village in Kokrajhar district
under the Bodoland Territorial Areas Districts (BTAD). "Some villagers suspected the family of practicing witchcraft and killed them on the night of March 19," said Inspector General of Police (BTAD) L.R. Bishnoi. "Two days after the incident, police were informed that three members of a family went missing," he said. Police Saturday launched a search operation and recovered two of the bodies. The bodies were
identified as being of the mother and the daughter. A search is on for the third body. As many as 13 people, who were involved in the murders, have been arrested so far. The practice of witch-hunting still exists among some communities in Assam. Although various steps have been taken both by government agencies and non-government organisations to stop it, very little success has been achieved.
Faith in democracy convinces surrendered insurgent to contest GuwahaTI, march 22 (anI): Once a hardcore ULFA leader, Hira Sarania, who is now a part of the pro-talks group, has decided to be a part of the democratic system. He will be contesting the upcoming elections as an independent candidate from the Kokrajhar Constituency. Several organizations from the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), as well as a number of Non-Bodo groups, are supporting Sarania's candidature. The ex-ULFA commander is hoping to serve the people by taking the democratic path. Sarania said: "I have lived among the common people and interacted with them for a long time now. And, I know that we cannot achieve
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anything by taking up arms." Lafikul Islam, General Secretary of the All Bodoland Minority Students Union, said: "ULFA was once a big organization. Now, they are in talks with the government and have come before the public. Hira Sarania wants to serve the people. What he couldn't do for the public
while being a part of ULFA, he wants to do it now." Sarania had joined ULFA's peace talk group under the leadership of chairman Arabinda Rajkhowa. A majority of insurgent groups in Assam, including factions of ULFA, DHD (J) and NDFB, are already in peace talks with the government. The government's rehabilitation policy is encouraging
PRESS RELEASE The Deputy Commissioner & District Election Officer, Phek notified the drafting of Presiding Officers and Polling Officers for the ensuing Parliamentary Election Duty under Section 26 of the Representation of Peoples’ Act 1951 and fixed the first Phase of training on 18th &19thMarch 2014. But many Polling Personnel have willfully avoided the training which is a must. It is therefore, all the absentees of Polling Personnel have been served show cause notice directing them to explain in person as to why action should not be taken against them under Section 134 of the Representation of Peoples’ Act 1951 on 25-03-2014 during the office hour without fail. (C.M. TSANGLAO)IAS Deputy Commissioner & District Election Officer, Phek
GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND
OFFICE OF THE DIRECTOR OF EMPLOYMENT & CRAFTSMEN TRAINING NAGALAND: KOHIMA
NO.DET-8/6/2006 /56
Dated Kohima, the 22nd March'2014
ADVERTISEMENT
Applications are invited from local candidates to undergo "On the Job Training" in the discipline of MBA (HR) as per the Apprenticeship Act, 1973 at Nagaland Pulp & Paper Company Limited (NPPC), Tuli, Mokokchung, Nagaland. However, employment in all such area may be regulated by Nagaland Pulp & Paper Company Limited (NPPC), Tuli, Mokokchung, Nagaland as per their recruitment policy and requirement and suitability. Interview for selection of candidates will be conducted by Nagaland Pulp &. Paper Company Limited (NPPC), Tuli, Mokokchung, Nagaland. Note: • Candidates who had already applied for the same before need not apply again. • Last date for submission of Application is 27th March, 2014. Sd/(MUTHINGNYUBA SANGTAM) Director, Employment & Craftsmen Training, Nagaland, Kohima
more and more misguided youths to abjure violence and join the mainstream. Following the ceasefire agreement with the government, the pro-talk ULFA group has also been exercising their franchise by voting in the elections. The willingness of the people to participate in the electoral process is a symbol of their faith in democracy.
Sunday
23 March 2014
Dimapur
3
DELHI PUBLIC SCHOOL, DIMAPUR (Under the aegis of Delhi Public School Society, New Delhi) (Shaping the future of your child everyday) 2 ½ MILE, DAROGAPATHAR DIMAPUR: NAGALAND 797115 Phone: 03862-235930 Website: www.dpsdimapur.in email: dpsdmp@yahoo.co.in
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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
C M Y K
4
public discoursE
Sunday
Dimapur
23 March 2014
Naga Leadership
businEss
PepsiCo’s Indra Nooyi got $13.2 mn pay package in 2013 New York, March 22 (aP): PepsiCo Inc. CEO Indra Nooyi got a pay package worth $13.2 million last year, representing a 5% increase from the previous year. The pay bump for the Indian-born Nooyi was the result of a higher performance-based bonus, reflecting the company’s improved financial results after coming out of a “transitional year” in which it slashed costs and stepped up investments in flagship brands. In addition to its namesake soda, PepsiCo makes Gatorade, Mountain Dew,Quaker oats and Frito-Lay snacks such as Doritos and Cheetos. PepsiCo, based in Purchase, New York, had been under pressure to improve its results when Nooyi announced a “reset” in 2012 to strengthen its brands. The company made a point of investing more heavily in marketing for its Pepsi soda, which had lost market share to CocaCola Co. over the years. Even as it worked to deliver stronger results in 2013, however, the company was working to beat back calls from Trian Fund Management’s Nelson Peltz to spin off its underperforming beverage unit. The activist investor wanted PepsiCo to then merge with Oreo cookie maker Mondelez to create a global snack food giant. Peltz has since backed down from the calls for a marriage between the two companies, but continues to press his case for PepsiCo to split up its snacks and drinks businesses.
PepsiCo executives have stressed their intention of moving forward as a combined company, saying the two units complement each other. Its results in 2013 were better, with net income and earnings per share increasing. Drinks continued to lag in North America, with soda in particular seeing declines. But executives say having a diversity of products helps PepsiCo weather a variety of challenges. It also notes it’s positioned to benefit from the strength of its non-carbonated drinks like Gatorade as people continue to move away from soda. For 2013, Nooyi’s pay included a base salary of $1.6 million, stock awards of $7.5 million and a performance-based bonus of $4 million. In 2012, her performance-based bonus was $3.3 million. Other pay last year included $102,772 for use of the company aircraft and $30,463 for ground transportation. Nooyi, 58, has been chief executive since 2006 and board chair since 2007. The Associated Press formula for executive compensation includes salary, bonuses, perks, abovemarket interest the company pays on deferred compensation and the estimated value of stock and stock options awarded during the year. It does not count changes in the present value of pension benefits, which makes the AP total slightly different in most cases from the total reported by companies to the Securities and Exchange Commission.
Where is it heading? Where is it taking us?
T
pecially when I remember the incidents of Operation Blue bird 27 years ago – a tragic and trying time for all our people. During 1987 to 1988, the people of Poumai area were subjected to human right abuse of the worst form – by the Indian Army under the infamous code – Operation Bluebird. The operation was in retaliation to the ransacking of Indian Army camp at Oinam by the Naga Army (NSCN IM). This retaliation proved very costly to the innocent villagers of this area. Many women were molested and raped. Many were tortured and some died in the process. Some survived the barbaric tortures but remained crippled for life. Much of the property were looted and destroyed. The gruesome operation lasted many months with curfews and complete monitoring of all activities by the Army. This severely hampered normal life and the financial loss was great. The magnitude of the barbaric atrocities committed by the Indian Army was documented by a team who visited to conduct a health camp for the women of those villages at Purul Akutpa in March 1989. During those camps, because of the curfew, free movement was prohibited but victims still came forward to talk about their harrowing experiences. The team comprised of Dr (Mrs) Joyce from Bangalore, 2 PG students of the Psychiatry Department of Nilratan Medical College, Calcutta and myself. We helped and treated around 160 victims. These victims were also interviewed and their responses documented. These documentations reflected some of the first ever known cases of Post Traumatic/Torture Stress Syndrome from North East India. The findings were later published in April 1989 and also presented in the International Amnesty Congress in Washington in 1990. Although I can recount terrible instances of brutal-
he recent announcement of Mr. Soso Lorho as the candidate for the Outer Parliamentary constituency of Manipur by the Naga People’s Front (NPF) following the assessment of the ‘Search Committee’ has definitely raised many eyebrows. This announcement which apparently was made after a “tireless and extremely well researched” search has even evoked a sense of sarcasm among the people. One cannot cease to wonder what wisdom was used by the search committee and central party office when they spent “sleepless nights” to nominate Mr. Soso Lorho as their candidate. There is no point in stating the obvious but something is really amiss in this whole process. The hypocrisy stands out for all to see. What are we really aiming for? What are our politicians and representatives really trying to do? Is it all really about victory for the Naga people? Or for few leaders to have the satisfaction of pleasing themselves? I ask again what would have really encouraged the people. Could it not have been a bold and courageous new step of listening to the collective voices of people crying for change? Or listening to various groups who for the first time came together from different sectors uniting to support a man known for his integrity and concern to really bring change to the people? Whether victory was gained or not, the unity and the collective effort to bring change alone would have been a great leap forward – something that hasn’t been seen in such a long time; Especially when this whole process was backed by looking to God for His will and guidance. It saddens me that our leaders failed to acknowledge this desire of the very people they claim to represent. What confounds me is the wisdom shown in nominating Mr Lorho - es-
“FICTION TECHNOLOGIES”, a multi-brand computer showroom near Kohima local ground, north gate was inaugurated on March 22.
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 # 2827
dr. Nelson Vashum chSRc, hamleikhong, hungpung Ukhrul
NNC urges right thinking citizen to stand together for common purpose Nagaland Republic Day message of the Kedahge, Gen. (Retd.) Viyalie Metha Federal Government of Nagaland on 22nd March 2014 at Chedema Peace Camp, Chedema. Dear Countrymen, I am happy to take the opportunity on this auspicious occasion of our Republic Day once again and I extend my hearty greetings to our people on behalf of the Federal Government of Nagaland. As we arrive at another milestone, we are thankful to God for His unceasing love and care and many blessings for Nagas to uphold our National rights all through these years. At the same time we pay our respect and national honor to our past national leaders and workers. Dear friends, today, as we celebrate the 59th Republic Day of Naga Nationhood, our mind is filled with mixed feeling of happiness and sadness. We are happy because by God’s grace, our Nation’s foundation was secured and laid on the solid rock that no power can deny us our right. But at the same time there is sadness in our mind, because our country is still under siege of invaders: the Indian occupational forces. India is a Nation proud of her greatness in democracy and champion of ‘Ahimsa’ non-violence written in her history but before long, a new chapter revealed the war with Nagas began in 1954 that was within seven years of India becoming independent. Nagas could get hardly a breathing space by 1964 when an International Cease-Fire agreement was signed between Government of India and Federal Government of Nagaland. However, sooner than later, India deviated and evaded the truth to settle the Indo-Naga conflict. Thus a record breaking time of unresolved conflict in the modern history has been made and because of this, we on our part are suffering
without ceasing and India on her part the image of her greatness is fast vanishing. India must do away with her dream to annex Nagaland. The policy of the Naga National Council and Federal Government of Nagaland is to maintain peace and tranquility in the land and peaceful co-existence with all Nations. Thus the Federal Government of Nagaland, while taking utmost restraint against any confrontations, the counter-part, India took advantage to use few gullible Nagas as its henchmen, to kill Nagas. It is shameful for anyone in any society to indulge in such crime. These perpetrators must wake up and be aware that killing your own people is sin before God which will never benefit you or the nation. And to our elite groups, it is my fervent request to come forward and make use of your intellect and wisdom towards nation building rather than accusing and abusing each other through the media. Confidently, time has come for uniting our hearts for the good cause of the nation; that is ‘Urra Uvie’Our country is ours. The voice of the Nagas speaks simple and clear that tells India “withdraw your occupational forces from our land – Nagaland.” Looking back to our history, Naga people were known for their hospitality, honesty and independent. In social life, whether at work or leisure; it was envied and unmatched by other civilizations. In the legal matter, any dispute, whether civil or criminal are promptly settled according to traditional customary practice and no dispute were left pending. This culture and tradition
are meant for us to uphold, protect and preserve for posterity. We shall not allow alien culture into Naga society. In this fast changing modern world, Naga people were blessed with the greatest gifts: firstly the saving grace of God the Almighty through Jesus Christ and secondly, the knowledge to be able to read and write which makes us at-par with the rest of the world. Now we have both and it is our responsibility to live according to God’s will and as truly enlighten and concern citizen. As the people entrusted the Federal Government of Nagaland to look after the well-being of our domestic affairs in accordance with the Yehzabo of Nagaland, it is our endeavor to protect and preserve our good qualities. Over and above, Nagaland is blessed with plenty of natural wealth beneath and on the surface of earth which must be used in the best interest of our people. In this respect, time and again unscrupulous exploitations were warned, but sadly, some self-seeking people under cover of enemy power continue to violate the national stand. Such activity must be stopped. The Yehzabo of Nagaland was based on the common ideals of democracy, Justice, Liberty, Equality and Fraternity. Every citizen regardless of sex is equal in the eye of law. So also, any one born of Naga blood is a citizen and a member of the Naga National Council (NNC). And our nation needs all right thinking citizen to stand together for the common purpose. May God bless Nagaland. Kuknalim
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.
_
LEISURE
ity, I wish to focus on just one aspect and that is the conduct and response of Mr Soso Lorho, who was the then cabinet minister for Health in the Government of Manipur. Despite repeated requests by the villagers and people, he never visited the people or offered any comfort to them. Why was his response this way? I cannot answer but hearing this from the people we interviewed and their pain and their tragedy although innocent was really saddening. I wonder what prevented Mr Lorho to make a visit when even the then CM Mr Rishang Keishing took a stand to confront the Army and the Central Government and eventually had to give up his post as Chief Minister. For me these memories are indeed painful. Anyone would be right in asking me why bring all this up now? The answer is simple. Our political leaders have somehow in their wisdom decided to nominate Mr Lorho and are now asking us all to support him. I have serious doubts on the judgement of the NPF leadership. I doubt in their wisdom of appointing Mr Lorho to fulfil the responsibility of representing us, our dreams and aspirations. He is to once again prove his credibility to us all. I am not sure if this nomination warrants such loyal support. Not when so many suffered and died during Operation Blue bird. I hold no personal grudge against anyone but my heart is burdened to stand for what is right. People still remember and suffer from the past atrocities. I write on their behalf as well. This is what I believe is expected of me by my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. I ask the question again – where is our leadership taking us? May we once again rethink on what it means to live for Jesus and as Nagalim for Christ. God bless us all.
The Morung Express
DAILY CROSS WORD
CROSSWORD # 2837
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 # 2826
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
O
R
RoAd SAfety WoRdSeARch.
ASSERTIVE
PASSENGERS
AWARENESS
PELICANCROSSING
BRAKES BUS ENVIRONMENT HAZARDS
ROADSIGNS ROUNDABOUT SAFETY SEATBELT
INDICATORS INSURANCE LESSONS MOT OIL
SPEED STEERINGWHEEL STREET TEST
ONEWAYSTREET
THEORY
PARKING
VEHICLE
D G P V E T A S S E R T I V E A V D Y
A O E M O T Y S K P U S T R E E T R
S O S R L P I S U T I J H I W E A S I
K S I T I D W L G P T A Y G X C T U
E R E N I L C O N E W A Y S T R E E T
A N S E N E A O S A A O B T T O E U
R E U N E D B N V D O E S N H E R H
A O R R V E H I T C E S A E O E H I P
A A A I O I L C A R F P A N O A N E
R D W N R E T Z F A E O R E J R Z G S
S A C O E B G N T T S S T E Y A W C
I A E N A O S Y L H O P S N D R H W
C G I L M V E H I C L E R A I D D E Y
N N O E T N Z T R T X A S R N S E T
H S S E N R O U N D A B O U T K G L S
G G A T R S L E S S O N S E K I B E
W I U G E P A S S E N G E R S U N T
ACROSS
I R E A O S E K A R B M E N S A A G
1. Explosion 6. Expunge 10. A Freudian stage 14. Axial 15. Test 16. Frost 17. Also called Peter 18. Lantern 19. Computer symbol 20. Belonging to the past 22. Boom 23. Lease 24. Not these or those 26. Barbershop emblem 30. Snake-like fish 31. Sweet potato 32. Atop 33. Not nights 35. A stringed instrument 39. Biggest 41. Feeling 43. Implore 44. Border 46. False god 47. Governor (abbrev.) 49. Website address 50. Replicate 51. Skin disease 54. Require
56. Space 57. Large carnivorous sea turtle 63. Graphic symbol 64. Bright thought 65. American symbol 66. Not closed 67. Lampblack 68. Birdlike 69. A musical pause 70. Sea eagle 71. Untidy
DOWN 1. Hit hard 2. 62 in Roman numerals 3. Goals 4. Notch 5. Adult male singing voice 6. Trace 7. Precisely 8. Tibetan monk 9. Hire 10. Mathematics 11. Recess 12. French for “Love” 13. Loans 21. Marsh growth 25. Meal in a shell 26. A mixture of cellulose fibers
27. Iridescent gem 28. Old stories 29. Betrothal 34. Discriminate 36. Adriatic resort 37. Coil 38. Unique 40. Biblical kingdom 42. Donnybrook 45. A dark cell 48. Overnight bag 51. Mistake 52. Two-door car 53. Districts 55. Nightmare 58. Smell 59. Possess 60. Auspices 61. “Oh my!” 62. Declare untrue
Ans to CrossWord 2836
DIMAPUR: 03862-232201/101 (O) 9436601225 (OC) CHUMUKEDIMA: 03862-282777/101 (O) WOKHA: 03860-242215 (O) 9402643782 MOKOKCHUNG: 0369-2226225/101 (O) 9856872011 (OC) PHEK: 03865-223838/101 (O) 9436012949 (OC)
TUENSANG: 03861-220256/101 (O) 8974322879
08974997923
MON: 03869-290629/101 (O) 9856248962/ 9612805461 (OC)
Toll free No. 1098 childline
W
KOHIMA: 0370-2222952/101 (O) 9436062098 (OC)
ZUNHEBOTO: 03867-220444/101 (O) 9856158740 (OC)
CHILD WELFARE COMMITTEE
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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5 Present status of land dispute Naga between Assam and Nagaland
LOCAL
The Morung Express
Sunday
23 March 2014
DAN committed to political settlement: Rio Our Correspondent Kohima | March 22
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio today said a Joint Legislators Forum (JLF) comprising all 60 members of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) on Naga political issue will be renewed so that it would encourage factions to come together. In his reply on the motion of thanks to the Governor’s Address at the ongoing assembly session here, Rio said the most important issue before the people is the Naga political issue. He also said that since DAN took over the government, to play a positive role in bringing an early solution to Naga political settlement was in their manifesto and is still committed to the issue. However, he said the issue is between the “underground” and the GoI where the State Government cannot take part
directly. He further said that the Naga political issue is everybody’s issue therefore everybody is needed to be onboard. On financial position of the state, Rio stated that from DAN I till date (11 years), the government have not gone into embargo and have not failed to pay the salary of the government employees. He said that financial position is good and the government is managing despite resources constraints and the cut down in the plan size. Stating that ACAUT is doing a commendable job to fight against unabated taxation, Rio also stated that a combined effort is needed to tackle the issue of illegal taxation in the state. “I am not trying to run away from my responsibility,” he said, while referring to his contesting Lok Sabha
polls. “I am going to take greater responsibility.” Rio said that if elected, Naga political issue will be his top priority. Rio said that 17 resolutions adopted by the newly formed North East Regional Party Forum, where he is the convenor, was to address the problems and issues confronting the region as “we were treated as second class citizens and ill treatments were meted on us even to the extent of killing.” Also referring to Look East Policy, Rio maintained that all the people have to involve in this exercise without which this policy will never come to north east. Referring to infrastructure and development, he lamented that despite Nagaland attaining 50 years of statehood, there is no single regional or national institute worth its name in the state. He continued that there is no technical or en-
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio Zhaleo replies on construction of multi level vehicle responding to starred question on posting of Administrative parking in Kohima office at Kubolong Block said Kohima, march 22 that Theodore Yanthan, NCS, (DiPr): Parliamentary Secre- SDO (C) Mokokchung who tary for Urban Development was holding additional charge Zhaleo Rio said that the ap- of Kubolong was transferred on proved cost for the construc- March 4, 2014 from the same tion of multi level vehicle park- day. Rajesh S. IAS SDO (C) Moing in Kohima is Rs. 1386.50 kokchung has been given addilakhs while replying to a starred tional charge of EAC Kubolong. On MLA Tokheho Yepthoquestion raised by Tokheho Yepthomi, MLA, during the mi’s question on appointment 4th session of the 12th NLA on of consumer surveyor, ParliaMarch 22, 2014. He also stated mentary Secretary for Power that an amount of Rs. 530.67 C. Kipili Sangtam said that the lakhs has been released and department has not given any an amount of Rs. 50.00 lakhs is appointment of consumer surdue to be paid and the physical veyor. progress of work is about 50%. Reply to sanction for developDeo Nukhu on opening of ment of Wokha Town Replying to starred question commerce stream in Fazl Ali raised by MLA Dr. T.M. Lotha College Parliamentary Secre- on how much amount is being tary for Higher Education & sanctioned for infrastructure SCERT Deo Nukhu replying development of Wokha town by to a starred question asked by the Ministry of Urban DevelopMLA C. Apok Jamir said that a ment, Parliamentary Secretary proposal have been received for Urban Development Zhaleo from the Principal FAC, Mo- Rio replied that the total amount kokchung duly forwarded by sanctioned for the project is Rs. the Director of Higher Educa- 3094.94 lakhs vide MoUD sanction for opening of a separate tion letter No. K-14011/4/2012 Fazl Ali College of Commerce UD-III dated 30.3.2012. On bewithin the FAC campus but ing asked about the time for the due to fund constraint estab- completion of the project and lishment of new college could the amount released to the connot be taken up. Responding to tractor, the Parliamentary Secresupplementary question, the tary replied, as per MoUD sancParliamentary Secretary said tion order, the project has to be that if fund provision is avail- implemented within a period able the department will con- of two years and will complete within 18 months by May 2014. sider the matter. Zhaleo Rio further reReplies to Kubolong EAC and sponded that the physical status of the work is about consumer surveyor
gineering institution in the state although Nagaland is the senior most state after Assam in the north east. On recently released booklet on “11 years of NPF misrule in Nagaland under Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio”, an expose by NPCC, Rio said that he too has gone through it, and all those questions and allegations has already been replied in the House. He further stated that “we have to keep our doors open so that investors, entrepreneurs etc could come and invest here in Nagaland.” In this regard, Nagaland Special Development Zones (NSDZs) in consultation with the tribal hohos, land owners is being conceived for creating more employment opportunities, Rio said. Regarding the salary for SSA teachers, he asked the teachers to bear with the
department since the funds has not been released by the GoI. Replying to workcharged employees’ protest, he said salaries were being paid till February 2014 and government is incurring Rs. 63.27 crore for the salaries of work charged employees. He also asked the HoDs to avoid random appointment on the eve of their retirement. On non-detention policy, Rio said that the government will take up the matter with the ministry. He said that this policy will destroy quality education and a sense of competition. He strongly advocated that exam must be there to have quality children. Later, motion of thanks to Governor’s address was adopted and passed by a voice vote. (With inputs from DIPR)
NLA session
45% complete and the works are in good progress and mentioned that the amount released so far is Rs. 278.54 lakhs (10%). He added that the work is contemplated to be fully implemented by November 2014 depending on timely release of fund by the GoI including release of required State matching share.
Upgradation of Dr. Imkongliba Memorial Hospital Mokokchung On MLA C. Apok Jamir’s starred question on upgradation of Dr. Imkongliba Memorial Hospital, Minister for Health & Family Welfare Imkong L. Imchen replied that the existing building of the hospital is a Hill Type BCC (non-RCC) and the building was constructed during late 1950 and running for more than 60 years without repairing and renovation. He stated that the original design of the building did not include water supply, sanitation, and power supply. He added that the hospital was meant to be 50-bedded, but over the years, increasing caseload compelled extension of the building for additional wards. He mentioned that at present the sanctioned beds of the hospital is 150, but due to lack of proper rooms it is functioning with only 100 beds and due to lack of master plan for the hospital development in the past, the condition of the building has been deteriorated. Due to lack of room, many speciality departments are running jointly which cause undue inconveniences to both
the service providers as well as service users. The staff quarter, Nursing School attached to the hospital infrastructure is far from satisfactory. He stated that for effective delivery of services as per Indian Public Health Standard (IPHS) 150-bedded should have 44 doctors comprising of various discipline, whereas it is presently manned by only 15 doctors (Medicine-1, Surgery-2, O&G-1, Pathology-1, Orthopedics-1, Anesthesia-1, Radiotherapy-1, Eye-1, ENT-1, GDMO-4). He informed that due to restriction in creation of post, the department has acute shortage of doctors. On equipments and logistics front, he said more specialists are now available, but due to want of infrastructure their services cannot be optimally utilized. The CT Scan machine which was installed in 2005 is not functional since 2013 due to lack of funds for maintenance and also the lone X-Ray machine which was installed is not functioning properly which requires replacement. He mentioned that the cobalt therapy unit for the treatment of cancers sanctioned in 2005 is still yet to be functional. Two students were nominated by the department and are undergoing M.Sc (Medical Physics) at B. Boraoh Cancer Institute Guwahati. There is no facility for ICU, Hemo-dialysis, Physiotherapy, Diagnostic facilities which is critical, particularly in the man-
Our Correspondent Kohima | March 22
Minister for border affairs, Y. Patton today stated that the dispute between Assam and Nagaland is over the inter-state boundary. The matter is subjudiced before the Supreme Court. Replying to an unstarred question by MLA Hukavi Zhimoni at the ongoing assembly session, he said the total area claimed by Nagaland in the disputed area
Our Correspondent Kohima | March 22
The 12th Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) in its ongoing 4th session today passed four government bills, Nagaland State Council of Higher Education Bill, 2014, Nagaland Farmers’ Participation in Management of Irrigation Systems Bill 2013, Nagaland Medical Council Bill, 2014, Na-
agement of increasing burden on non-communicable diseases. This hospital caters to not only the people of Mokokchung district, but also neighbouring districts of Zunheboto, Tuensang, Longleng, Wokha and Mon. 35% of total patients attended are from these districts. The department is and will propose comprehensive upgradation of the hospital under the World Bank Project as well as from the State Plan in the next FY 2014-15, the Health minister said. On maintenance of NH 61 Replying to a starred question asked by MLA Imtikumzuk, Parliamentary Secretary for PWD (National Highway) Nuklutoshi replied that GoI had sanctioned money for the maintenance of NH 61 and the estimate for the portion from Km 40/00 to Km 72/00 is under preparation to be submitted to the Ministry. The work would start as and when the Ministry approves the fresh estimate and sanction, he replied. Present status of foothill road construction Replying to MLA C. Apok Jamir on the present status of the foothill road construction, Minister for Roads & Bridges, Kuzholuzo Nienu said that formation and side drain cutting works have been allotted to two contractors. In Mokokchung district, 2.48 km costing Rs. 0.91 crore is completed. In Wokha district, a total length of 62 km costing Rs. 17.74 crore
Panelists and participants of the seminar held at Japfü Christian College on March 21 and 22.
Abraham Lotha, Principal, St. Joseph’s College, Jakhama: “SelfAuditing Naga Ceasefires since 1997 and the Way Forward”; Dr. Visakhonü Hibo, Principal, Japfü Christian College, Kigwema: “Conflicting Narrations, Factionalism and Tribalism to Peace Trap”; Colo Mero, Director, Life Sports Ministry, Kohima: “Romanticizing the Past Naga Movement and its Present Virtual Reality”; Dr. Nokhwenu Kharutso & Dr. Kekhrieseno Christina: “Conflict resolution: Strategies and solutions for Naga Society”; Husca A. Ayemi, Japfü Christian College, Kigwema: “The Plight of Sumis of Kiphire District in the wake of Peace Poverty”; Shamu Singh, Japfu Christian College, Kigwema: “Naga National Workers and State Election”; Purchila Jamir, Japfu Christian College: “Genesis of Naga Nationalism and Birth of Unrest”. According to the note, there
was a strong desire among all the panelists and the participants for an earnest need to have mass based unity for ushering in lasting and enduring peace, to forgo mistakes in the spirit of forgiveness, discard divisive politics, tribalism and to pursue ideal democracy where Human Rights enriched with dignified identity of a people and their will rules supreme. Earlier at the inaugural session, a book entitled “Education and empowerment of Naga women” authored by Dr. Visakhonü Hibo, Principal of Japfu Christian College, was released by Dr. C.J. Thomas, Deputy Director, ICSSR-NERC, Shillong. The book is the outcome of Dr Hibo’s doctoral research in the Nagaland University which “explores on the lack of quality education in our State which disadvantage both men and women, but more so amongst the women folks, as mere literacy rate does not empower.”
galand State Paramedical Council Bill, 2014 and Nagaland Board of School Education Amendment Bill, 2014. The bill for introduction of Nagaland State Council of Higher Education Bill, 2014 and Nagaland Farmers’ Participation in Management of Irrigation Systems Bill 2013, moved by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, was introduced in the
will be carried out, and out of which 64% is completed. He also added the construction of RCC Bridge 2-lane over Doyang river 120m span costing Rs. 26.30 crore has been recently allotted and the work is yet to commence. Replying to MLA Tokheho, Azo said that there are 5,126 road labourers under NPWD. The MLA suggested that the labourers be used for jungle clearance, filling of potholes etc. Arms prohibition calibres Home Minister Kaito Aye said 303 rifle is prohibited whereas 7.65 mm pistol is non-prohibited bore, while responding to a starred question asked by MLA Tokheho Yepthomi on possessing 303 rifle and 7.65 mm pistol. Presentation of assembly committee reports Chairman of Public Accounts Committee, Dr. Longrineken presented a copy of the 109th Report of the Committee on Public Accounts (2013-2014) on action taken by the Government on the Observations/Recommendations contained in the 105th Report of the Public Accounts Committee on the C&AG of India’s Report for the year 2009-2010. Chief Minister of Nagaland, Neiphiu Rio on behalf of the Chairman of Estimate Committee, C. Apok Jamir also presented a copy each of 114th Report on the examination of the Estimates of Irrigation & Flood Control (IFC) Department; 115th Report on Action
achieve ‘Food for all by 2015’’ KiPhirE, march 22 (mExN): District Agriculture Officer, Kiphire, Renbemo Ngullie today lamented that many progressive farmers are being sent for exposure trip, but the input they give back is not encouraging. Speaking as special guest at a training on climate resilient agriculture organized by Farmers Club, Amahator area here, he asked the farmers and especially those farmers sent for exposure trip to teach fellow farmers who could not avail the opportunity. The training held at Arkah piggery farm for farmers of Amahator area was sponsored by C. Kipili Sangtam, parliamentary secretary, Power. Renbemo Ngullie further stated that the policy of ‘Food for all by 2025’ is the responsibility of all, adding, to achieve this target, farmers have a lot of role to play. He assured the farmers of assistance to improve farming in the district. The special guest also stated, taking up crops or activities which are not suitable for soil and geography will lead to nowhere and advised the farmers to cultivate crops which will bring good return. He also disclosed that one acre of land which is accessible for exposure trip and training will be adopted for pilot project for Sugarcane. In his keynote address, Senkha, Horticultural Officer, Kiphire
On being asked whether the Government of Nagaland has a positive chance in the case, the minister stated that the case is subjudiced in the Supreme Court of India. In the meantime, co-mediators have been appointed by the Supreme Court to mediate a settlement of the dispute between Assam and Nagaland. The minister added that the process is continuing.
Assembly passes four government bills
‘Conflict to Peace Trap: The Naga Story’ ‘Farmers have role to play to Kohima, march 22 (mExN): Japfü Christian College organized a seminar entitled, “Conflict to Peace Trap: The Naga Story” on March 21 and 22, sponsored by Indian Council of Social Science Research – North Eastern Regional Centre (ICSSR-NERC). The academia dialogued on the elusive peace with resource persons drawn from varied fields, informed a press release. The paper presenters along with their paper titles were: Dr. C.J. Thomas, Deputy Director, ICSSR-NERC, Shillong: “Conflict to Peace Trap: The Naga Story”; Rev. Dr. Wati Aier, Principal, OTS, Dimapur: “The FNR Story”; Niketu Iralu, Social Pacifist, Kohima: “Phizo and revisiting Angami Public Organisation’s stand on Naga Movement”; Prof. John Sema, HOD, Department of Political Science, Nagaland University: “Present Naga Political Issue”; Dr. Melville Pereira, Director, NESRC, Guwahati: “Conflict in the wake of ASFPA in Naga society”; Tia Longchar & Joel Nillo, ACAUT Nagaland, Dimapur: “ACAUT Story as an off-shoot of Peace Trap”; Zapuvisie Lhousa, Village Elder, Mezoma Village: “The NNC Story: Frustrations and Aspirations”; Dr. Kedilezo Kikhi, HOD, Department of Sociology, Tezpur Central University, Tezpur: “The Influx Trap”; Dr.
is 4, 974 sq. miles as filed in the case before the Supreme Court. On being asked to give “detail dispute land agreement” between Assam and Nagaland, the minister stated that “there is no dispute land agreement between Assam and Nagaland.” However, an interim agreement was made in 1972 and 1979 between the two states, following incidents that took place in the border areas.
Dimapur
stressed that climate resilient agriculture has become a global issue which is discussed all over the globe. He added that production of food grains such as rice, wheat is decreasing over the years whereas population is increasing which is a big challenge for all. Stating Jhum as harmful type of agriculture for environment, he asserted, “It is time for us to find alternative method of agriculture so as to save from further environment degradation.” Coming out with suggestion for alternative method of livelihood, the Horticulture Officer said, Jhum Park, Butterfly Park, Mushroom Park, Orange Park, Apple Park, Apiculture Park can be established if only the people in the district know how to live together without having any tribal color. Kilemsangba District Horticulture Officer, who also spoke on the occasion declared Amahator area as cardamom belt. Pudusul Luho, District Planning Officer, and Dr T. Tsilise, VAS, Kiphire also spoke on the occasion. In the technical session, resource persons were V.Chelladurai, General Manager, NABARD; T.Kirithong Proprietor, Arkha piggery farm; Lima Akum .Deputy Project Director, ATMA; Ellen from Land Resources; and Kekosenuo, Block Technology Manager, ATMA.
House on Friday. Nagaland Medical Council Bill, 2014 as well as Nagaland State Paramedical Council Bill, 2014 was moved by Minister for health and family welfare, Imkong L. Imchen, while consideration and passing of the Nagaland Board of School Education Amendment Bill, 2014 was moved by Minister for school education C.M Chang.
Taken on the Observations/ Recommendations contained in the 109th Report of the Committee on Estimates pertaining to Land Resources Department (Nagaland Bio Resource Mission-NBRM); 116th Report on Action Taken on the Observations/Recommendations contained in the 113th Report of the Committee on Estimates pertaining to Department of Youth Resources & Sports and Music Task Force; 117th Report on Action Taken on the Observations/Recommendations contained in the 108th Report of the Committee on Estimates pertaining to Soil & Water Conservation Department (River Valley Project- RVP) and 118th Report on the examination of the Estimates of Industries & Commerce Department (Central Transport Subsidy). Laying of annual administrative reports A copy each of the Annual Administrative of 2013-14 of the following departments was laid on the 3rd day of the fourth session of the 12 NLA. Health & Family Welfare; Roads & Bridges (PWD); Parliamentary Affairs; Social Welfare; Forest, Ecology, Environment & Wildlife department; Horticulture department; Rural Development department; Public Works Department (Housing); Justice & Law; Employment & Craftsmen Training; Land Revenue; Labour; Mechanical Engineering (PWD), National Highway (PWD) Soil & Water Conservation and Fisheries.
Pughoboto SDPDB meeting PughoBoTo, march 22 (DiPr): Additional deputy commissioner Pughoboto has issued a circular to all the members of Sub-Divisional Planning and Development Board (SDPDB), that Pughoboto SDPDB meeting will be held on March 24, 2014 at the office of ADC Pughoboto at 11 am. Therefore, all members concerned have been requested to attend the meeting without fail.
training schedule for polling personnel of tsg TuENsaNg, march 22 (mExN): The second round of training for polling officials of Tuensang district will be held at Government Higher Secondary School at 10:00 am according to the following category: Presiding officer and 1st polling officer (Male) at the auditorium on March 25 and 26; 2nd and 3rd officers (Male) at GHSS class room 1 and 2 on March 25 and 26; Presiding and 1st polling officers (Female) at the auditorium on March 28 and 29; and 2nd and 3rd polling officer (Female) at class room I on
March 28 and 29. The third and final round of training will be held at the same place and time on April 4 and 5. All heads of departments/ offices under district have been directed to depute all the officials under their respective establishment to attend the training positively. Also, the training personnel have been asked to bring two passport size photographs for ID card. Any department officials failing to attend the election training/ duties will be prosecuted under the election laws, stated a press release.
CorreCtion The Naga National Council has expressed regret that there was a tying error in the third paragraph of Z. Royim Yimchungrii's speech (Acting President Of Naga National Council) which was published on March 22. It should be read as “Naga National Council reiterates our stand once again that we stand for Naga sovereignty and also Burma" and not as mentioned.
Sunday 23 March 2014
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EXPRESS
Review
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
Water used as fuel for processes and products Jean-Marc Vesselle ater is the origin of all life and is extremely important to each and every one of us. That is why, in 1993, the United Nations introduced a World Water Day that is celebrated annually on March 22. The focus changes each year, and this time, "Water and Energy" is under the spotlight. This raises another issue that, despite its importance, is rarely a subject of public discussion -- the link between clean water and the global rise in energy demands. The chemical industry makes a major contribution to both these issues. Discussions relating to water and energy are often restricted to the generation of electricity at hydroelectric power stations. Naturally, huge quantities of water are required to keep the large turbine wheels turning, but the quality and purity of the water used play only a minor role. Water from hydroelectric power stations can be used for other purposes without first having to be cleaned. Other industries have far higher demands on water as a raw material though, whether used to generate electricity from fossil fuels or nuclear energy, in the chemical industry, for paper making, or in the electronics sector. Even in mining, food processing, steel manufacturing, and automotive engineering, virtually nothing is possible without water. For example, it takes 500 liters of water to produce one kilogram of paper, some 10,000 to 20,000 liters to build a car, and as much as six metric tons of water to manufacture one metric ton of steel. Worldwide, over 20 percent of all the water extracted from surface sources such as rivers, lakes and from groundwater is used for industrial purposes. In highly-developed regions such as Europe, this figure is as high as 60 percent, whereas in developing countries, it is just under 8 percent. In Germany, industrial usage accounts for as much as 84 percent of extracted water. Thermal power stations use some three-quarters of this -primarily for cooling purposes. Around 630 liters of cooling water is required per day and per person simply to cover Germany's electricity requirements, but most of this is recycled in closed circuits. Over half the water used in the manufacturing industry -- not counting cooling water for power stations -- is required by the chemicals sector. This amounts to approximately 30 percent of the entire volume of water extracted in Germany. Other relatively large consumers of water include the mining industry, the manufacturing and processing of metal, the food industry, paper making, and the printing sector. Water treatment for safe energy generation Complex chemical and mechanical treatment processes are needed for cooling water, process water and almost pure, completely desalinated water at power stations.
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In most cases, ion exchange resins are used to soften and desalinate the feedwater. This is essential because the high temperatures at the power station would otherwise cause the salts and alkaline minerals that are present in water to build up on the heating surfaces as boiler scale and form an insulating layer that would prevent heat transfer. This can lead to thermal stress cracks or even cause the boiler to burst and give rise to corrosion, abrasion and imbalance among components on the steam side, for example in the turbine. A second, downstream step is sometimes required, for instance if the water contains a high proportion of organic substances. These, too, can damage the turbine and other components in the water-steam cycle. This second, downstream step is called reverse osmosis. At the Chemnitz combined heat and power station, for instance, these membrane filter elements from LANXESS significantly lower the degree of fluctuation in water quality and, in particular, filter out organic substances. In addition to this, reverse osmosis can be used, for example, to desalinate brackish water or seawater to produce drinking water. Ion exchange and reverse osmosis are complementary technologies and are therefore often combined to an optimal effect. LANXESS' LewaPlus software for the planning and design of complex water treatment plants combines the two technologies in a single planning tool so as to offer customers significant added value. Conserving resources through multiple usage Thanks to numerous changes in production processes and ongoing optimization of water treatment, it has been possible to steadily reduce the consumption of water by using it several times. Here, too, products from the chemical industry have played a key role. The number of times water is used in the paper industry has risen from 2.4 in the 1950s to about 12 at present. In the chemical industry, water is now recycled an average of 28 times before it is channeled downstream through the sewage clarification system and then allowed to re-enter the water cycle having been purified. Further progress is still to come though, since the chemical industry serves as a link -- in both senses of the word -- between water as a raw material and energy generation. Germany's fourth-largest industry not only offers innovative approaches for the efficient use of water as a raw material but also provides solutions for resource-saving, sustainable energy generation. To mark this year's World Water Day, let's acknowledge the chemical industry's contribution to things we tend to take for granted -- such as clean water and a reliable supply of energy -- because this role will become even more important in the future. Jean-Marc Vesselle is the Head of LANXESS' Liquid Purification Technologies (LPT) business unit.
A woman carries a bucket filled with drinking water as she walks on dry mud against blowing sand, along the Brahmaputra river in Guwhati, Assam. 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 Photo/Anupam Nath)
DEFYING HISTORY: Water May Limit the Future of Human Race
Gustavo A. B. da Fonseca huffingtonpost.com
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o see the Earth from space leaves no doubt that we live on a watery planet. "Earth" is really a misnomer. But the mass of water visible from above belies the challenges of managing this life-giving substance. Only 2.5% of this resource is freshwater suitable for direct human use, and an even smaller proportion is actually accessible without resorting to costly technology. Human activity already captures close to a third of the accessible freshwater, according to recent estimates, and that share will only grow with projected increases in global population. Certain areas, particularly those home to some of the poorest people, are already experiencing extreme water scarcity. In many ways, water may prove to be the single most important factor limiting the future of the human race. It is central to all we do--particularly within the agricultural and energy security sectors. To meet the needs of a growing population, world leaders must grapple with the implications of water availability, distribution, access and sustainability for food and energy production. Projections point to a need to increase food production by 70100% by 2050 and energy generation by at least 40% by 2030. Water will play an integral role in whether these demands can be met.
Water scarcity is endangering livelihoods in many regions already feeling the impact of climate change through longer droughts and increasingly frequent and powerful storms. Meeting these targets will require an integrated, cross-sectoral approach which combines water, food security, and energy strategies. The most effective solutions will address the trade-offs between the different sectors along with the synergies arising from a water-food-energy "nexus". Today, some 80% of the world's population lives with a high threat to water security. The biggest gulp in terms of global freshwater usage (some 70%) comes from agriculture. This rises to over 85% in many of the least developed countries. The world's farmers are producing more food, but they're also wasting more of it. A third of food produced for human consumption--some 1.3 billion tons--goes to waste every year. Wasted food means wasted water and greater water scarcity. The 2014 World Economic Forum Report identified water, climate change, extreme weather events and food as the areas of highest risk for people's affairs globally. Yet many leaders fail to appreciate the scale of the threat posed by water scarcity. Worldwide, about 1.3 billion people lack access to electricity. The majority of these depend on
biomass such as wood and charcoal for cooking. This is a major driver of deforestation, resulting in siltation and pollution, which speeds up freshwater degradation. A negative chain reaction is looming: Feeding growing populations leads to more natural habitats converted to agricultural use; increased food production means more wasted water; growing populations in energy-scarce regions lead to deforestation for fuel; increased processing and distribution releases more greenhouse gases; global warming stresses semi-arid environments--and so on. Only a nexus approach can transform this negative chain of events into a positive, to counteract the inherent tradeoffs and synergies when demands for water, food, and energy are pursued separately.
Latin America holds key to future Some regions have been particularly blessed with abundant and readily accessible freshwater. South America is home to six of the world's 12 largest rivers measured by discharge -Amazon, Orinoco, Madeira, Paraná, Negro and Japura- along with some of the largest tropical lakes - Maracaibo, Titicaca and Poopo. Latin America as a whole has one of the highest per capita allocations of fresh water in the world -some 110,500 cubic feet per person per year. However, even in such a water paradise, trouble spots are emerging. To counter
some of these it's important to act proactively, particularly when potential exists for international conflicts over water access. The Guarani Aquifer spans four countries and extends over 1.2 million square kilometers into Brazil alone --equivalent to England, France and Spain combined. A Global Environmental Facility and World Bank partnership is bringing the Argentine, Brazilian, Paraguayan and Uruguayan governments together to support the construction of a common institutional, legal, and technical framework to manage and conserve the aquifer. The initiative is already addressing environmental externalities arising from rapidly expanding soybean plantations, the driving force behind recent increases in these countries' GDPs. It's also generating local benefits by investing in wastewater treatment systems to prevent contamination. As the view from space indicates, water does not respect boundaries. An integrated vision is key to addressing the energy-water-food nexus. This includes transforming policy and regulatory environments, promoting innovative approaches with the potential for larger scale programs, strengthening institutional capacity and decision-making processes at all levels, and convening multi-stakeholder alliances across sectors and national borders. This truly is the way of the future.
Why water could decide the Indian elections The country's newest political party, Aam Aadmi, has found a deep well of support for highlighting corruption of basic services
I A Nepalese woman adjusts her vessel as she stands in a queue to fill it from a public tap in Lalitpur, Nepal. (AP Photo/Niranjan Shrestha)
5 reasons you can’t survive without water
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Sameer Jha
0% of our body-weight is made up of water and without it our organs wouldn’t function properly. A reduction of more than 10% of our normal body water percentage can be termed as a medical emergency and can be fatal. Despite being so important, a lot of people don’t drink enough water. The reason might be laziness or indifference, but not staying hydrated can be extremely dangerous. Here are some of the top reasons why your body needs water. 1. It maintains the balance of body fluids Maintenance of body temperature, digestion and absorption of food, circulation of blood – these are all functions your body will be unable to perform if you don’t give
it enough water.
beauty. (Katrina Kaif drinks 4 glasses of water after waking up!) Drinking a 2. Helps get rid of toxins lot of water will ensure that everything Without water, your body from your eyes to your skin look great. wouldn’t be able to get rid of toxins that can cause damage to your cells 5. Keeps you active and organs. If you drink adequate A loss of just one percent of your water, your body will excrete harm- normal body water percentage can ful toxins like blood urea nitrogen leave you feeling tired. A loss of more through your kidneys. than 2-4% can affect your mental functioning too. This is why you need 3. Keeps your digestive to drink enough water to keep yoursystem in mint condition self active and free from any sort of faIf you don’t get enough water, your tigue. Read more about how water is colon will pull water from the stools to the fuel that keeps your body running. get enough water for your digestive These are just some of the basystem. This will result in dry stools sic health benefits of water. Besides that are difficult to pass through your this, it can also help you lose weight colon. Drinking water or eating foods and prevent heart disease as it is a rich in water like cucumber or papaya much healthier substitute to sugarwill help prevent this problem. loaded soft drinks for quenching 4. Keeps you looking beautiful thirst. You may already be drinking Many actresses swear by water water a few times in a day, but are when it comes to maintaining their you drinking enough?
Matt Birkinshaw The Guardian home
ndia is the world's second largest country by population (1.2 billion) and tenth largest by GDP ($1,842bn), yet the national election next month could be decided by a simple issue – water. Mechanically pumped groundwater now provides 85% of India's drinking water, and is the main water source for all uses. North India's groundwater is declining at one of the fastest rates in the world, and many areas may have already passed "peak water". The World Bank predicted earlier this year that a majority of India's underground water resources will reach a critical state within 20 years. Groundwater use still falls under an 1882 colonial law, but the reasons behind its dramatic decline are more to do with the local and international politics of water management. New Delhi has an average water supply – 273 litres per person per day – which is higher than London and Paris, but simply accessing water is a daily challenge for about 50% of residents. As the city water board struggles, Delhi's thirsty population depends on the "water mafia", said to control a trade worth billions of dollars that is essential for ordinary people, wealthy residents and elected politicians alike. Just as onion prices rise before an election, tensions over water run high, increasing general anti-incumbency bias and voter loyalty towards those able to deliver on promises of good supply. The brokerage chains used in
Indian cities to arrange water access can both support existing political regimes and lead to resentment against them. Until now, the 2014 elections have been shaping up to be a headto-head battle between leaders of the two main parties: Narendra Modi's hi-tech hindutva for the BJP, against Rahul Gandhi, scion of the Nehru dynasty, for the somewhat tarnished Congress. The dark horse in the national campaigning, though, is India's newest political party the Aam Aadmi (AAP) led by an unlikely frontman, former civil servant and water activist Arvind Kejriwal. The AAP won a surprise victory in the recent Delhi elections on the back of a campaign centred on corruption and basic services. Their manifesto describing water as "the biggest concern of the aam aadmi [common man] in Delhi" made it a key campaign issue. Their posters read: "A warning to power: no water, so no vote". Despite accusations of being a middle-class party, AAP in fact attracted a lot of votes from Delhi's poorer neighbourhoods. For areas without good water access, water may be "arranged" by local leaders, usually aligned to the two main parties, in return for local support. Perceived withdrawal of loyalty may be met with threats, harassment or violence. By framing corruption around these issues of access to basic services, AAP has seemingly found a deep well of support. However, the day after AAP came into government, neighbourhoods in south Delhi found their water cut off, apparently a water mafia response to AAP's policy of free basic water. Kejriwal refused extra security and the AAP's efforts against illicit water continue. Lack of adequate water and sanitation are significant impediments to social and economic development in India. Sickness from polluted water is frequent. Girls in unserviced areas often skip school waiting in line on "water day", or don't sleep as they wait for the water to come on in the night. Indian bathrooms, for those lucky enough to have them, are commonly fitted with two sets of taps.
One is for municipal water that runs at very low pressure at sporadic intervals (perhaps a couple of hours twice a day in Delhi's better areas), if at all. The other set is for alternative water, supplied from groundwater pumped from below the building, or sumps filled by delivery tankers, also often using untreated groundwater. As groundwater declines, and climate change kicks in, control over water is a source of power. In the land of khaadi kurta-clad politicians, Kejriwal has become famous for his signature combination of "old uncle" sweater, "borrowed watchman's" muffler and the Nehru hat that has become the party's symbol. But the AAP is not all spin. As a political party it grew out of the India Against Corruption movement, the country's Arab Spring, and is bringing an activist mentality into electoral politics. While this has sometimes spilled over into the ugly side of populism, the AAP has shown a shrewd ability to draw support from the urban middle class and poor alike. After Kejriwal recently stepped down as Delhi chief minister, citing obstruction from the mainstream parties, the AAP started preparing for a national campaign. Fielding candidates from an impressive coalition of campaigners and social activists, including veteran environmentalist Medha Patkar, AAP has the potential to play spoiler or kingmaker in the upcoming elections. If AAP is to succeed they need more than grassroots campaigning and popular discontent. Policies and schemes for water resource development in India have not recognised the political, social and economic roles of water outside of the official system. As a result, they have been bound to fail. The expensive, technology-heavy model of water supply that is often promoted mainly benefits international companies, consultants and local elites, destroying traditional, sustainable water practices in the process. AAP has made a promising start in tackling these problems in Delhi. They will need to continue to address these issues if they are to balance electoral populism with their promises of social justice.
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.
FAITH LEAF
SunDAY
THE MORUNG EXPRESS 23 March 2014
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INSPIRATIONAL STORIES, MESSAGES, POEMS & SPIRITUAL EXPERIENCES
Or is it Depression and the Pastor’s justSin! bad feeling? Wife: Suffering in Silence
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very counselor begins with the question, “So how long have you suffered with depression?” The truth is that I am not sure. At times it seems like a lifetime. As a child I was always told that I was melancholy, and that description is true. I was a very quiet child. I tended to sit, listen, and observe others; I still do that. However, I tend to slip at times into a different kind of darkness. My first major bout with depression came my freshman year in college. My parents were divorced and had been since I was three. However, I was feeling a new pressure in my relationship with my dad, and I was not sure how to handle it. I became very discouraged when I realized that I was in a situation in which I could not make my mom and my dad happy no matter what decision I made. So, I went to counseling. I cannot remember most of what that counselor and I talked about, but I do know that God used that time to bring me to a deeper level of brokenness and a greater realization of my dependence on him. As I look back at my time in college, I can clearly see times where God met me in very real ways. Then I got married. My sweet husband knew that at times I struggled with discouragement and being down, but usually I rebounded quickly. We had been at the church for three years when I hit my next major bout with depression. My youngest child was born a month early and we went through a year with various health issues with our children that ended in several different surgeries and hospital stays. To the point of exhaustion, I tried to care for four children, my husband, and our church; homeschool; and go to a bazillion doctor’s appointments. I was overwhelmed with my life and felt like I was failing in everything I did. No matter what I did or how I changed my schedule I just could not do it all. After a year of struggling (yes, it took me a whole year to finally admit I needed help), I came to a place where I had to share with my husband what was going on. I was depressed, not just down, but depressed. I was in a place of darkness where it seemed there was no hope, happiness, or joy. Back to counseling I went; only this time, my husband came too. He had noticed my struggle but he was not sure how he could help me deal with it. Counseling was helpful. I saw how much I try to earn God’s favor. I struggle with perfectionism and am frustrated with myself when I am anything less than perfect. I tend to dismiss the encouraging comments from my husband and from other church members, and I tend to replace them with self-loathing thoughts like “if only they knew the thoughts I had, or if they knew how I really was than they wouldn’t say those things.” I was choosing to believe lies instead of believing God’s truth about who I am in Him and how he sees me. After several months of counseling, the darkness lifted. I experienced a joy that I had missed for months. I experienced peace and a renewed love for God and his word. I found a joy in serving my family and my church that had not been there for a long time. I found freedom in not having to please myself. But the battle did not end. Please understand that I still had the thoughts creep into my head that I wasn’t good enough or that I had failed again. However, I also had God’s word to remind me of the truth of my freedom in Christ. However, depression is a battle that does not go
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o you believe in the spiritual realm? I mean really believe; not in your head — in your disciplines? Do you believe that spiritual power can alter, transform, or even redeem social, institutional, structural and even legislative power? I’ve been thinking a lot about this lately. I’m not sure I really believed … until recently. On Sunday mornings, in the midst of our safe sanctuaries, our five-song worship sets, our 15-minute sermonettes and our one-hour services that can be timed with an egg timer, how does our worship and our practice offer witness to the reality of the spiritual realm? How do our disciplines engage the inner world beyond the good feeling we get from songs that comfort us? Comforting songs are valuable in our worship. In fact, God uses those songs to remind us of the ways the Holy Spirit interacts directly with us, knows us, and knows our most intimate needs. But how does our worship — how do our congregations’ spiritual disciplines strengthen our understanding and engagement with the powers, the principalities, and the world beyond our own homes and sanctuaries? “For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 6:12). In the first book of his trilogy, Naming the Powers: the Language of Power in the New Testament (1984), Walter Wink demythologized Paul’s exhortation to the Ephesians explaining: “… the ‘principalities and powers’ are the inner and outer aspects of any given manifestation of power. As the inner aspect they are the spirituality of institutions, the ‘within’ of corporate structures and systems, the inner essence of outer organizations of power. As the outer aspect they are political systems, appointed officials, the ‘chair’ or an organization, laws—in short, all the tangible manifestations which power takes.” In the introduction of the final book in his trilogy, Engaging the Powers: Discernment and Resistance in a World of Domination (1992), Wink sums up his
away. Depression is not easily or quickly cured. Though it can go as quickly as it came, it can also reappear as quickly as it disappeared. And so, once again, I find myself in the embrace of depression. I find myself back down in the pit of darkness and despair. Why am I at this place again? I am not sure. For over a year now, I have struggled, at times more intensely than others, but the darkness has never completely lifted. I have learned many lessons from this struggle. • First, depression comes and goes, even for Christians. God allows us to be in the darkness for a season, but he is always faithful to bring us out of it. He is there in the darkness whether I feel him or not; he will not abandon me here. • Second, I need others to help me in my struggle. I have a few very close friends who know very intimately my struggle with depression. When I get to these places of depression, these dear Christian ladies know they need to check on me and remind me of God’s truth. They often spend time speaking God’s word into my life and reminding me of his care for me. They spend time both praying with me and for me. They are invaluable to my
fight with depression. • Third, my husband loves me despite my fight with depression. I am often tempted to worry that my husband will be disappointed to see me struggle. I am still in shock when he finds joy in caring for me through it. Now, I recognize that my struggle is hard on him as well. His care for me does not come without great sacrifice on his part. He proactively seeks the help and counseling that I need. He deliberately cares for me and encourages me, even when I don’t receive his care and encouragement. He has not given up on me. • Fourth, my family doctor has been invaluable in helping me with my struggle. She often is one of the first to recognize the signs of my depression. She has worked with me to make sure that there are no other underlying physical causes as one of the sources of my depression. For example, blood work discovered I had a very low B-12 level, depression being a side effect of this condition. Raising my B-12 did not solve my depression issues completely, but treating this did play an important part in dealing with it as a whole. She has also encouraged me in persevering. Oftentimes, my doctor has reminded me that it is not unique for pastors and their wives to struggle in
these ways as she has treated many. It is invaluable to have a medical person who is like-minded to aid in helping with your struggle. • Fifth, and most importantly, I am constantly reminded of my complete and utter dependence on God. He is the one who has to sustain me in these times. He is the only one who can bring me up from the pit. I cannot do this Christian life on my own apart from God. One of my friends pointed out that depression is actually a gift from God because it leaves us in a place of humility and brokenness that cannot be achieved in other ways. It is in these places that God begins deep healing of old wounds. Without depression I would never take the time to allow God into those hurtful places. I know that God will not leave me here forever, though if he chose to, I also know that he would sustain me through it each day. God is good and faithful even in these times. My struggle with depression is not the result of being a pastor’s wife. If my husband was in another vocation I believe I would still struggle. However, being a pastor’s wife (as well as being a pastor) intensifies this struggle. The exhausting nature of caring for the church, the temptation to carry the burdens of those who are struggling in our midst, the demands on our time and on our family, and the spiritual battle that we daily face all contribute to exhaustion and vulnerability. This exhaustion is especially intensified as we try to do all of these things in our own strength, apart from God. Therefore, finding pastors and their wives struggling with depression is not uncommon. So let me encourage you if you find yourself in this place. First of all, you are not alone. Many Christians have very real struggles with depression and have for the whole course of time. You can be a Christian, even a strong, mature Christian, and be depressed. Next, let me encourage you to get help with your battle, which cannot be won by yourself. This battle demands encouragement, counseling, at times medical treatment and prayer. You have to be courageous enough to speak up and admit your struggle. Until you ask for help you can’t get help. However, the irony of depression is that sometimes we are unable to ask for help. So if you know someone who is depressed, then reach out and offer them help. Depressed people do not need to be forgotten. Even though they may be silent, they are suffering, and many times by themselves. If you are struggling then find a friend in whom to confide. Talk with your spouse about it and start sharing your struggle instead of staying silent. We have to be honest about our struggle, but we need others to ask us about it as well. Finally, let me encourage you that God knows your need. He knows where you are and He will be faithful to you in these moments. The work that Christ did on the cross provides forgiveness for our sins and our short comings and gives us the freedom to walk with God and not lose his favor. The work Christ did provides healing for our souls. You are not alone in your struggle, you are not alone in your darkness, and you are not alone in your pain. God is real and his people do care, and he will bring you through this struggle with a greater love and dependence on him. (The post is written by Cara Croft and is from the excellent new book, The Pastor’s Family by Brian and Cara Croft, published by Zondervan. It is excerpted from the book The Pastor's Family by Brian and Cara Croft.)
The Power of Fasting Lisa Sharon Harper Sojourners
understanding of the powers: “The Powers are good. The Powers are fallen. The Powers must be redeemed.” Over the past month, I have witnessed the spiritual power of the disciplines of prayer and fasting to redeem our nation’s institutional powers in ways I never imagined. In mid-November Sojourners joined with a diverse set of partners to launch the Fast for Families: a Call for Immigration Reform and Citizenship. I wrote a series of blogs about my experience of fasting alongside Eliseo Medina, D.J. Yoon, and Christian Avila for 22 days. On the second day of our fast Speaker of the House John Boehner announced that the House had no intention of working with the bill the Senate had already passed for immigration reform. In the face of overwhelming evidence that the majority of Americans (including Republicans) want immigration reform, Boehner’s declaration made no logical sense. It effectively communicated to all that immigration reform was dead. Over the next week, legislators began to visit the Fast for Families fasting tent on the National Mall. Each time the fasters shared our stories. We asked the legislators to share their stories. Then we asked them to hold our hands and pray for us … and they did. One week later, Speaker Boehner announced immigration reform is not dead. The fast gained traction. Three thousand people signed up to fast across the country and scores had come to visit
the fasting tent. Then throughout the second week of fasting the tent began to receive visitors from the White House: cabinet members and even the vice president. Each time, with discipline, the men and women who drank only water day and night shared their stories and the visitors shared their stories and then we asked the cabinet members to pray for us. And they did. Then the day after Thanksgiving we received two unannounced visitors: President Barack Obama and first lady Michelle Obama. We sat in a circle. Each faster shared her story. The president and first lady shared their hearts. Then, we all joined hands and the president prayed for us and he prayed for the 11 million undocumented immigrants caught in our nation’s broken immigration system. I have never experienced anything like this. The spiritual realm behind the offices and institutions was being drawn out and called to submit to the truth of God that every person in the tent and within our borders, whether documented or undocumented, is human, made in the image of God, and therefore worthy of the protection of their dignity. In the days to come, Jim Wallis, would come to describe what was happening in the tent as “another kind of power.” He said that those on Capitol Hill have legislative power, but in that fasting tent there was spiritual power, and those who wield institutional power were coming to wit-
ness it! The night before the four original fasters broke our fast, we were invited to be formally recognized from the floor of a House legislative session. We sat in the gallery high above the floor where the legislators who we see on CNN, MSNBC, and FoxNews milled about below, casting and counting votes. One by one they realized we were there. They pointed at us, waved at us, then one by one they made the trek from the floor to the gallery to greet us and to thank us. I sat there dumbfounded when several members thanked us for our courage. It didn’t feel courageous. We were simply called — called to engage the powers on the spiritual realm —called to fast. Then one representative turned and applauded us from the House floor and then half the House broke into wild applause that went on for what felt like forever. I wept. I couldn’t hold it in. It was overwhelming. These legislators, these people whom Walter Wink would call institutional “powers,” were acknowledging the power of our spiritual act of discipline — fasting. The next day, we passed our fast to Jim Wallis, Gabriel Salguero, Stephan Bauman, Rep. Joseph Kennedy, Ciara Taylor, and others. And 10,000 people across the country also took up the fast. And that same day, Speaker Boehner announced that he had appointed a new expert to help him pass immigration reform in the House! Another 10 days went by with new core fasters taking up the fast. Jim Wallis blogged about his experience here. Then on Dec. 12, one month after we began, we celebrated the end of the fast on the National Mall and Jim Wallis declared that the fast would continue in the New Year, but this time the spirit of the fast would be carried into every congressional district. And on that same day, Rep. Bob Goodlatte, the Republican chair of the House Judiciary Committee, declared that Immigration Reform would be a top priority in 2014! One legislator who joined our celebration on the final day said: “We have seen fasting work miracles before.” I never had. But now I believe … in the power of the fast. Lisa Sharon Harper is director of mobilizing for Sojourners.
Kedo Peseyie
I
t is called sin, and just a bad feeling. One important element of evangelical piety is the conviction of sin. Today Christians are known not so much for their theology, but for their pragmatism and emphasis on personal piety. To sacrifice biblical theology for the sake of pragmatism and relevancy to the secular mindset would be most impractical. But that is what many Christians seem to be doing. Today we are more informed and influenced by secular postmodern psychology than by the biblical theology. We feel more obligated to preach on “how to become someone, be successful and feel good…” It is “Feel-goodism” and prosperity that matters if we are to be relevant, or so we think. So far Naga churches have been inclined toward evangelical theology claiming to follow one of the largest global trend in Christianity—evangelicalism and Pentecostal movements. But it is sad to note that conviction of sin is no longer a deep conviction in our evangelical piety. Has it been numbed by the overemphasis of praise and worship in our youth Christian culture? —you know, you have to develop a positive attitude for good praise and worship. Or maybe it is the comfort of our pews? No matter what many of us may have been doing during the week, we never fail to find a strange kind of comfort in the pews to appease our questionable actions. Or maybe, it is the influence of the Positive-Thinkers in our pulpits, the influence of the “feel good” and “feel righteous” factor, and the motive of maintaining proper income in the church budget? Or maybe it is the confusing and mixing up of the “Divine mandates with our political allegiances”, or the confusing and mixing up of our “good Naga traditional behaviour” with the sanctification of the Spirit. Today we are burdened with huge conflicts and tensions in our society and political scenario. But we see this only as a result of a mistake that was committed some years back. And often this mistake is not from our side, it is from the other party. We can harp on the need for reconciliation and forgiveness, but without the regeneration of the human spirit, soul and attitude it will only be in paper. And the blood will still flow. In the bible regeneration is coming into a new life; a life of the spirit and not of the flesh; a new kind of life that finds and freely gives forgiveness and reconciliation. But regeneration never happens without a deep conviction of sin. If a person does not feel the need to leave his former way of life, he will never see the need for regeneration in his life. If we as Christians have an answer to give to our problems, it must start from the teaching of regeneration of the human spirit and soul by the Spirit of God. It’s time we put the horse in its proper place in front of the cart, instead of trying to push the cart by ourselves. We must unashamedly go back to the Cross of Jesus Christ. We cannot be put right with God without regeneration. We cannot move ahead with God without offering reconciliation and forgiveness to others. Regeneration makes that possible. Why do many Christians backslide so easily? Maybe it is because we don’t preach conviction of sin as fervently as we ought to. We don’t preach the need for repentance as fervently as we ought to. But we do preach positivism, the benefits and the blessing first. So when people “become” Christians, it is not an act of repentance or regeneration by the Spirit of God, it is merely a change of ideas, a process of learning and unlearning some principles in life. There are a few people I have seen who have truly repented from sin and were truly sorry. There was a girl in a camp who could not get up because the burden of sin was too heavily upon her. She could not believe that God could forgive so great a sin as hers. But she did and that was true repentance. There was another boy with whom I knelt together as he prayed the salvation prayer. He could not control his tears. He didn’t say anything about changing ideas and principles in his life. He simply prayed a long prayer punctuated every second with words like, “I am sorry… please… please… forgive me… sorry… please… help me God…” That was a change of the heart, a surrender to God because of a deep conviction of sin. Charles Wesley once said, “I must preach law before I preach grace.” Conviction of sin is a central part in our Christian experience. It shapes our ethics and standard for living. We learn to live cautiously because we are always aware of the power of sin. And most importantly it is the reason why we are ever grateful and thankful to God for making the impossible possible— giving us forgiveness. “Therefore, I tell you, her many sins have been forgiven—for she loved much. But he who has been forgiven little loves little.” Luke 7: 47.
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.
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Dimapur
Sunday 23 March 2014
NATIONAL
Would rename country United States of India, states MDMK cheNNai, March 22 (iaNS): The MDMK has promised in its manifesto released Saturday that it would rename the country as the United States of India if it takes part in government formation after the Lok Sabha polls. The party, led by firebrand Tamil leader Vaiko, also said it would lift the ban on Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). According to the MDMK, the Indian Constitution when it was formed promised a federal governance structure. Those who initially claimed “unity in diversity” gradually began to concentrate power in the central government, the party said. In order to strengthen the country’s unity, the Indian Constitution should be revisited and the country be renamed as United States of India, and the party said it would strive for that. The party also demanded the centre to transfer back to the states the powers relating to education and the residuary powers listed in the Constitution should be fully given to the states. The party said it would work for holding of a referendum on creation of Eelam in Sri Lanka for Lankan Tamils. According to MDMK, the referendum should be held in places where Lankan Tamils live. The party has assured appointment of Tamils as ambassadors in nations having a sizeable Tamil population. The party has promised reservation in the private sector, inter-linking of rivers, setting up of Cauvery Management Board and Cauvery Water Regulation Committee to oversee sharing of Cauvery waters between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The party said it would ban death penalty. The MDMK also promised to work to force India to take severe action against Sri Lanka if it continues to attack Indian fishermen and also retrieve Katchatheevu -- an islet in Palk Strait -- from Sri Lanka. The party also promised declaration of fishing community as scheduled tribe, provide pension for fishermen and prevent plunder of beach sand minerals. On the nuclear power, MDMK said it would prevent additional units at Kudankulam in Tamil Nadu and also work for closure of the first two units there. The party has also opposed field trials of genetically modified crops, methane exploration project in Thanjavur, the natural gas pipeline project by GAIL in Tamil Nadu. With the difficulties faced by people in the south in approaching the Supreme Court in New Delhi, the MDMK has promised for bring a bench of the apex court here. To the people of Puducherry, the MDMK has promised statehood. Citing that the Union Territory got its freedom from the French Nov 1, 1956, the MDMK assured that steps will the taken to declare that day as Puducherry’s Independence Day.
New Delhi/JoDhpur, March 22 (iaNS): Annoyed at not being considered from Rajasthan’s Barmer constituency, senior BJP leader Jaswant Singh Saturday said the party was being encroached by outsiders. Sources close to Jaswant Singh said he may resign from the Bharatiya Janata Party soon, even as party members continued efforts to pacify him. Without naming any one, Jaswant Singh, one of the founders of the BJP, said outsiders have encroached the party. “There is an encroachment on the BJP. It is overtaking the nature and character of the party. It’s so unfortunate that the party has been completely taken over by outsiders, who never have had any respect of the party’s ideology,” he told reporters in Jodhpur. “The BJP is now divided into two factions, one which is real and the other is fake. But unfortunately, the fake faction has the reins of the party now,” he said. Sources close to Jaswant Singh said he may resign from the party soon and is likely to contest the Lok Sabha elections as an Independent candidate from Barmer. The former defence and external affairs minister is slated to visit Barmer in a couple of days and seek feedback from supporters before filing his nomination papers. “Everything will be decided only after I reach Barmer and have a discussion with my supporters,” he said. A close associate of former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee as well as senior BJP leader L.K. Advani, Jaswant Singh said the BJP needed to reflect on this. BJP president Rajnath Singh, however, said Jaswant Singh’s stature could not be measured in a ticket. “Jaswant Singh is a senior leader of the party. We respect him a lot. His stature cannot be measured in a ticket,” Rajnath Singh said. “We will utilise his abilities in one form or the other in the party,” he said. Asked if any disciplinary action will be taken against Jaswant Singh, the BJP chief said the question was “hypothetical”. Jaswant Singh represented Darjeeling in the outgoing 15th Lok Sabha. The BJP ticket for the constituency has now been given to S.S. Ahluwalia. Jaswant Singh wanted to contest from Barmer but luckNow, March 22 (iaNS): The fourth class the party fielded Col. Sonaram, who recently switched to government employees in Uttar Pradesh have decided the BJP from the Congress. Following protests from BJP to opt for the None Of The Above (NOTA) option in the forthcoming Lok Sabha polls, it was announced Saturday. Ram Raj Dubey, president of the Chaturth Shreni Rajya Karmachari Mahasangh, said this was being done in protest against the dilly-dallying on their outstanding demands. “We have been petitioning almost all parties, including the ruling Samajwadi Party but rather than addressing our demands, the politicians are trying to fool us,” he told IANS. Dubey added that in protest, the employees would opt for the NOTA option during the polls paTNa, March across the state. The employees union also thanked the “We may pull in 6000 to 22 (pTi): Over Supreme Court and the Election Commission for mak48,000 security pering this provision available to voters. The workers leaders 8000 more policemen sonnel would adopt said they have been demanding scrapping of new pen- to ensure smooth polls ‘shock and awe’ tacsion scheme and bringing back the old system. They are tics to thwart any disalso demanding an immediate ban on outsourcing and during the first phase ruptive plan by Maoregularisation of the employment process for their cad- of elections” ists during polling in res. The decision of the fourth class employees of the Uttar six Parliamentary constituencies in Maoist-hit areas of Pradesh government to not vote for any candidate has left Bihar on April 10. “The forces comprising 165 companies the state government and politicians a worried lot. of central paramilitary forces of 108 combatants each,
UP government fourth class staff to exercise NOTA
The Morung Express
BJP is being encroached by outsiders: Jaswant Singh
workers against the denial of ticket to Jaswant Singh, a meeting was held at the home of the former union minister’s son Manvendra Singh Friday night. His supporters in Barmer have chalked out a strategy to field him as an Independent. Some party workers took out a protest rally and burnt effigies of Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasund-
saidalocalBJPleader.mIfJaswantSinghdecidestocontest,he may upset the equation against Sonaram as there are at least 1.5 lakh Rajput voters in Barmer constituency, experts said. “He has influence over voters from other castes also. So Jaswant Singh will definitely make life difficult for the BJP candidate,” said political analyst Vijay Sharma. Vot-
Noted journalist M J Akbar joins BJP
New Delhi, March 22 (pTi): Author and senior journalist M J Akbar on Saturday joined BJP in the presence of party president Rajnath Singh. Akbar, who was a Congress MP from Kishanganj in Bihar between 1989 and 1991, switched over to the BJP bandwagon ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. He was Congress party spokesperson in 1989 ahead of the Lok Sabha polls. He said that he has come back in politics for its policies and work to bring the nation back into a “recovery mission”. “I have come back to politics because of policy (main rajniti me niti ke liye wapas aya hu). The crisis in front of the country is known to all. This is an opportunity to do whatever little we can do for our country,” he said after joining the party. “It is our duty to join hands with the voice of the nation and bring the country back to a recovery mission. I look forward to working in BJP,” he told reporters. mWelcoming the senior journalist in the party fold, BJP president Rajnath Singh said people working in different areas like sports, politics, films and literature have joined the party.m “Now prominent people from media too are accepting membership of BJP to give this country
a stable government. Akbar is known to be one of the stalwarts in media and has accepted to join the party. I welcome him,” said Singh. Akbar, who was close to then Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, acknowledged that the latter was a friend and 20 years have passed since that. Backing Modi, Akbar said that no other leader has gone through so much scrutiny as has Modi. “It is not only that there is crisis. But now I also see a solution to the crisis. Narendra Modi’s leadership is essential for the country,” he said. “In ten years, no other politicians has gone through so much scrutiny as Modi has gone through. He was scrutinised by police, central government, CBI, court-appointed institution,” he said. “And those who rake up this issue all the time, I want to tell them to read the Justice Krishna report. How many people are there in Gujarat who are in jail through the legal system. More than 100. Can one tell me the numbers as far as the 1984 and 1993 riots are concerned,” he said. He also hoped that Muslims will join hands with BJP as they are equal citizens of the nation and will come out of the “politics of fear”.
hara Raje, holding her responsible for the denial of ticket to Jaswant Singh. They also shouted slogans against her. “Col. Sonaram was with Congress for years. Now he has switched loyalties and joined the BJP. Fielding him immediately after joining the BJP has sent a wrong message to the voters. He should have been made to work in the organisation at leastforsomeyearsbeforehewasgivensuchanopportunity,”
ing for the 25 parliamentary constituencies in the state will take place April 17 and 24. In the 2009 elections, the Congress won 20 seats and the BJP four while one seat went to an Independent. Jaswant Singh hails from Jasol village in Barmer district. He was a member of the union cabinet during the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance government.
Over 48,000 security personnel for 6 Maoist-hit LS seats
Trinamool’s manifesto stresses need of judicial reforms
kolkaTa, March 22 (iaNS): Asserting that judicial reforms were essential in a country plagued by numerous pending cases, the Trinamool Congress manifesto Saturday promised of working on systematic changes in the judiciary. “Judicial reform is essential and is one of our topmost priorities. Millions of cases are pending in courts and people are not getting justice,” West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said while unveiling the manifesto. “We will set up a review committee to bring in pro-people systematic changes in the judiciary,” the party supremo added. Emphasising on the need for setting up more fasttrack courts for expeditious trial of cases, Banerjee also talked about setting up an exclusive women’s court. “Justice denied is justice delayed. So, to ensure speedy justice in cases of atrocities against women and culprits are meted out strong punishment immediately, we believe time has come for setting up an exclusive women’s court,” said Banerjee. The manifesto stressed on revamping the colonialera criminal laws in the modern context and framing stringent legislations to tackle atrocities on women. It also talked about a new forward looking motor vehicles law as well as new forest laws aimed at restoring the rights of tribals and forest dwellers. The manifesto also proposed to bring in a new law for the judicious use of natural resources as well as stringent legislations to prevent adulteration of food, medicines and fuels.
and over 30,000 policemen will resort to shock and awe tactics to prevent disruption of polls in Sasaram, Karakat, Aurangabad, Gaya, Nawada, Jamui,” Inspector General of police (Operations) Amit Kumar told a news agency here. “We have received 130 companies of CPMF for the elections in addition to 35 at the state’s disposal,” the IG said. m“If needed, we may pull in 6000 to 8000 more policemen to ensure smooth polls during the first phase of elections,” he added. Kumar said that forces deployed in other districts would be deployed in the six constituencies a week before the poll date. Army helicopters would scour forest areas, a favourite sanctuary of the outlaws, he said. Several prominent politicians including Lok Sabha Speaker Meira Kumar (Sasaram, SC), former Delhi police commissioner and Congress leader Nikhil Kumar (Aurangabad), Bihar Speaker Uday Narayan Choudhary and LJP President Ram Vilas Paswan’s actor-turned-politician son Chirag Paswan would be contesting in the six seats. mAccording to police sources, there was a threat of Maoist ambush during patrol by security forces and on polling parties. m“In this context, Sasaram and Jamui constituencies are the most vulnerable because of nonmotorable terrain. There are long stretches where movement is possible only on foot,” the sources said. The six constituencies were located on the border with Jharkhand where there were attacks on police and CRPF personnel earlier. mThe last such incident was an attack on a police camp in Aurangabad district on December 3, 2013 in which seven policemen were killed and around two-dozen sophisticated firearms looted. mMeanwhile, Additional Chief Electoral Officer R Lakshmanan said, “Polling parties with EVMs for a particular area will reach designated police camps or police stations for them to spend the night before the poll date. They will reach the polling centres in the morning.”
An Indian woman holds the hand of her child and walks carrying a vessel of water on world Water Day on the outskirts of Hyderabad, India on March 22. There is no direct supply of potable water at homes in most of the poor neighborhoods in the country and people have to depend on regulated supply of water from public taps erected on roadsides, with a single tap catering to hundreds of households. (AP Photo)
Goa Church wants Catholics to engage in politics paNaJi, March 22 (iaNS): Goa’s influential Roman Catholic church wants its followers to both pray and actively engage in the political process to elect parliamentarians who will work for the good of the country. In a circular issued Saturday, the Archbishop of Goa and Daman, Filipe Neri Ferrao, exhorted Goa’s 26 percent Catholics to start a prayer campaign to internally think and choose the best possible elected representative for the state. The circular also calls active political participation as the “compelling need” of the times we live in. “It should make us constantly aware of our duties and responsibilities as citizens who not only cast their vote, but also actively participate in the political life of our state. This is indeed a compelling need of the present times,” the circular says. The circular comes a few days after a social organi-
zation backed by the Church issued a stinging critique of Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar and the Gujarat chief minister, accusing both the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders of misgovernance. The Church, during the last assembly elections, had a cosy relationship with the BJP, which eventually proved helpful for the saffron party helping it win an unprecedented simple majority in the 40-member Goa legislative assembly. In Saturday’s circular, the Church has reminded the Catholic faithful to fulfil “their solemn duty of exercising their franchise with a sense of responsibility to oneself and to our beloved nation, so that we may have a government which will uphold the principles of democracy, secularism, human rights, freedom of conscience...as enshrined in the Constitution of our nation”.
are Narendra Modi’s credentials?” he asked. Tharoor said Rahul Gandhi had proved his credentials by transforming the Youth Congress and his decision to hold primaries to choose candidates for the Lok Sabha polls. Tharoor described the contest between Gandhi and Modi as one between “a potential anarchist” and “a potential democrat”. m“Rahul inspires a lot of people. Modi has rhetorical flourish, Rahul speaks from the heart,” he said. mTharoor said Gandhi has a much bigger connect with student audiences than Modi. He said the Congress vice president was the “unifying force in the large tent that the Congress is. He is the right alternative against a divisive force like Modi”. mBut Tharoor admitted that the Gujarat chief minister was attracting allies. “I do accept that many feel that Modi is someone they can do business with. But these are all short-term political calculations.”m Tharoor, who is con-
testing again from the Thiruvananthapuram constituency in Kerala, defended the Congress’s continued criticism of Modi, holding him responsible for the 2002 riots in Gujarat. Asked why the Congress was not taking on Modi on his development claims, he said: “Modi cannot wish away his past. Silence is not absolution.” m,Tharoor also took potshots at the Aam Aadmi Party, saying “(Former Delhi chief minister Arvind) Kejriwal is a one issue man”. m“He sees corruption in everything. I would like to imagine there are people of integrity in politics, in bureaucracy. Kejriwal doesn’t,” he said. mTharoor also ridiculed the message the AAP was sending out that the 2014 polls were about Modi and Kejriwal and Rahul Gandhi did not figure. m“All Kejriwal and his ministers proved when they were in power was that they could create anarchy by doing dharnas,” he said.
Parole over, Sanjay Dutt Rahul is right alternative to ‘divisive’ Modi: Tharoor back to jail puNe, March 22 (iaNS): Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt, convicted in the 1993 Mumbai serial blasts, Saturday evening returned to the Yerawada Central Jail here after his parole ended after 90 days, officials said. The 53-year-old Dutt was released on a month-long parole Dec 21 last year on the grounds of his wife Maanyata’s illness. Later, the parole was extended by a month till Feb 21 and then again till March 21, inviting a barrage of criticism from various quarters over the repeated parole granted to him. Prior to the three paroles, Dutt was granted a fortnight’s furlough, which was extended by another fortnight in October on grounds of his own illness. The actor’s 37-year-old wife Maanyata was hospitalised in January after she complained of lung complications. A convict in the March 1993 Mumbai blasts, Dutt is serving the remainder of his five-year imprisonment at Yerawada since May 2013.
New Delhi, March 22 (iaNS): Union minister Shashi Tharoor has backed Rahul Gandhi for prime minister, saying people with lesser credentials than the Congress vice-president have in the past turned out to be good leaders and Gandhi was the “right alternative” to a “divisive force like Modi”. Appearing on the “Right To Be Heard Town Hall election special of Headlines Today, Tharoor was asked why Gandhi and not more educated, more experienced, more knowledgeable leaders were not being projected by the party. “People with lesser credentials than Rahul have made good leaders. The Congress has a solid bench strength which will help Rahul give direction. The Congress has a very good leadership team,” he said. Tharoor said he himself had wondered how Rajiv Gandhi, a pilot, could lead the country, but Rajiv did an outstanding job. “The fact is, credentials are your performance, not your resume. What
the morung express
InternatIonal /entertaInment
Sunday 23 March 2014
Dimapur
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Brown feels Pope warns mobsters chris like ‘a caged animal’ they risk going to hell
Chris Brown has reportedly vowed to turn his life around because he feels like a ‘’caged animal’’ in jail.
Pope Francis is cheered by faithful as he arrives for a meeting with relatives of innocent mafia victims, in Rome's St. Gregorio VII church, just outside the Vatican on March 21. (AP Photo)
ROME, MaRch 22 (REutERs): Pope Francis, in an annual ceremony held to remember the hundreds of innocent people murdered by the Italian mafia, made a solemn plea for mobsters to change or else “end up in hell”. The mafia continues to plague much of southern Italy: just on Monday, a four-year-old boy was shot
dead, along with his mother and her boyfriend, near the southern city of Taranto in a suspected mob hit. At the end of an emotional ceremony in Rome in which the relatives of those murdered read the names of about 900 innocent mafia victims, the pope said the mafia “has no pity even for a child”. “You have power and money now from much
dirty business and many mafia crimes - it is blood money and blood power, and you can’t take it with you to the afterlife,” Francis said in a Rome parish church packed with almost 900 relatives, many of whom held pictures of their slain loved ones. “Men and women of the mafia, please change your lives. Convert. Stop doing evil ... There’s
still time to stay out of hell. That’s what’s waiting for you if you stay on this path.” Francis’s words recalled those of Pope John Paul, who in 1993 angrily called on mafiosi to “repent, because one day you will face the judgment of God”. The pope’s stand is important because, according to investigators, mob bosses often seek to establish close ties to local priests as a way to show that their authority is recognised even by the Church. It is the first time a pope has attended the annual event - now in its 19th year which is always held on the first day of spring “as a sign of hope and rebirth,” said Turin priest don Luigi Ciotti, who founded the anti-mafia group Libera, which organises the ceremony. “My mother lost her life in the name of democracy, in the name of freedom, and for her commitment to civil society,” said Viviana Matrangola, the daughter of Renata Fonte, a city council member in the small southern town of Nardo who was shot to death by the mafia in 1984. Organised crime controls almost all economic and criminal activity in Ca-
labria, Sicily and parts of Campania and Apulia, and it has greatly extended its influence in Rome and Milan in the past two decades. Italy’s main crime groups - Sicily’s Cosa Nostra, Calabria’s ‘Ndrangheta, and the Camorra from around the southern city of Naples - have a joint annual turnover of 116 billion euros, according to a United Nations estimate. The mob continues to use violence and threats to keep its grip on the territory. Threats against local government officials have risen 66 percent since 2010, when the figures were first collected, according to a report published on Friday. The most popular means of intimidation used by the mafia is setting fire to officials’ cars, while threatening letters - also by Facebook or email - is the second most common method. Forty one local administrators have been assassinated by the mafia over the past century, said Avviso Pubblico, the anti-mafia group that collected the data, and 243 city governments have been dissolved for organised crime infiltration since 1991.
Computer can World Poetry Day: Unesco chief spot false faces! hails universal art of poetry tORONtO, MaRch 22 (IaNs): A computer has beaten humans when it comes to identify real from fake facial expressions of pain. Researchers at University of California (UC) San Diego and University of Toronto have found that a computer system spots real or fake expressions of pain more accurately than people can. “The computer system managed to detect distinctive dynamic features of facial expressions that people missed,” said Marian Bartlett, a research professor at UC San Diego’s institute for neural computation. “Humans can simulate facial expressions and fake emotions well enough to deceive most observers. The computer’s patternrecognition abilities prove better at telling whether pain is real or faked,” added Kang Lee, professor at the Eric Jackman institute of child study at University of Toronto. The research team found that humans could not discriminate real from fake expressions of pain better than random chance - and, even after training, only improved accuracy to a modest 55 percent. The computer system attains an
85 percent accuracy. According to Lee, in highly social species such as humans, faces have evolved to convey rich information - including expressions of emotion and pain. Because of the way our brains are built, people can simulate emotions they are not actually experiencing - so successfully that they fool other people. The computer is much better at spotting the subtle differences between involuntary and voluntary facial movements, he noted. The new approach has the potential to elucidate ‘behavioral fingerprints’ of the neural-control systems involved in emotional signalling. The single most predictive feature of falsified expressions, the study shows, is the mouth and how and when it opens. Fakers’ mouths open with less variation and too regularly. The computer-vision system might be used to detect other real-world deceptive actions in the realms of homeland security, psychopathology, job screening, medicine and law, Bartlett said. The work, titled ‘Automatic Decoding of Deceptive Pain Expressions’ was published in the journal Current Biology.
uNItEd NatIONs, MaRch 22 (IaNs/WaM): The head of the Unesco marked World Poetry Day by extolling the virtues of one of the highest forms of linguistic and cultural expression and calling for support to those who give it life. “Through its words and its rhythm, poetry gives shape to our dreams of peace, justice and dignity, and gives us the strength and desire to mobilize to make them real,” DirectorGeneral Irina Bokova said in her message for the Day which fell March 21. “All peoples throughout history have developed and practised forms of poetry, so as to pass on orally their
knowledge, history and myths to express feelings, to talk about daily life, to withstand trials or to entertain,” she stated. “Today, contemporary forms of poetry, from graffiti to slam, enable young people to become engaged in the practice and renew it by opening the door to a new space for creation. The forms evolve, but the poetic impulse remains intact.” Unesco proclaimed March 21 as World Poetry Day in 1999, with the aim of supporting linguistic diversity through poetic expression and offering endangered languages the opportunity to be heard within their communities.
The Day is also meant to support poetry, return to the oral tradition of poetry recitals, promote its teaching, restore a dialogue with other arts such as theatre, dance, music and painting, support small publishers and create an attractive image of poetry in the media so that the art will no longer be considered an outdated form. “As a deep expression of the human mind and as a universal art, poetry is a tool for dialogue and rapprochement,” she added. “The dissemination of poetry helps to promote dialogue among cultures and understanding between peoples because it gives access to the authentic expression of a language.”
A monorail passenger train passes by a giant electronic screen displaying messages for passengers aboard a missing Malaysia Airlines plane, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on March 22. Six Australian planes took off Saturday for a third day of scouring the desolate southern Indian Ocean for possible parts of missing Malaysia Airlines Flight 370, now lost for two full weeks. (AP Photo)
US first lady stresses freedom of speech
From left to right, U.S. first lady Michelle Obama, and her daughters Malia, second right, and Sasha applaud as they watch a Peking opera performance with a group of American schoolchildren who are visiting China during their spring break, at the Summer Palace in Beijing on March 22. (AP Photo)
BEIJING, MaRch 22 (aP): U.S. first lady Michelle Obama told students in China, which has some of the world’s tightest restrictions on the Internet, that freedom of speech and unfettered access to information make countries stronger and should be universal rights. Mrs. Obama was speaking Saturday at Peking University in Beijing during a weeklong trip aimed at promoting educational exchanges between the U.S. and China. The trip also
took on political overtones when she was granted a previously unscheduled meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping on Friday. Mrs. Obama said the free flow of information is crucial “because that’s how we discover truth, that’s how we learn what’s really happening in our communities and our country and our world.” “And that’s how we decide which values and ideas we think are best — by questioning and debating them vigorously, by listen-
ing to all sides of every argument and by judging for ourselves,” she said. China blocks many foreign news sites and social media services such as Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Its army of censors routinely filters out information deemed offensive by the government and silences dissenting voices. Though not likely to be well-received by the government, Mrs. Obama’s remarks may not draw any strong protest because her speech
and a subsequent moderated discussion among 50 students — sitting in two identical conference rooms in Beijing and Palo Alto, Calif., but connected via modern technology — focused mainly on the value of educational exchanges. Fulbright scholar Eleanor Goodman from Harvard University’s Fairbanks Center for East Asian Research said the first lady probably “felt a need to make that statement.” “It was firm but not overbearing,” Goodman said. Sunny Ni, a Chinese student studying environmentalism at the State University of New York College of Environmental Science and Forestry, said that she has no problem accessing information for her studies, and that China is improving with free flow of information. “It’s a step-bystep process,” Ni said. Ni said Mrs. Obama impressed her by saying studying abroad should not be the privilege of the wealthy. In her speech, the first lady said that the U.S. government is
supporting more American students in China than in any other country, and that her husband has launched an initiative to send more American students with diverse backgrounds to China. “Our hope is to build connections between people of all races and socio-economic backgrounds, because it is that diversity that truly will change the face of our relationships,” Mrs. Obama said. Ni said Mrs. Obama also appealed to her by saying people need to connect with each other to take on global challenges. Mrs. Obama’s meeting Friday with Xi, though not unexpected, was not originally part of the itinerary for her seven-day, three-city trip to China, and was a sign that the leaders of the world’s two largest economies are seeking to build stronger personal bonds. Xi said he cherished the “personal friendship” he has established with President Barack Obama, and Mrs. Obama thanked him for his hospitality.
T
he ‘Fine China’ singer, who was transferred to a jail in Los Angeles after he was kicked out of a court-ordered rehab facility last Friday (14.03.14), and must stay there until his next probation violation hearing on April 23, has told friends he is absolutely miserable behind bars. A source, who recently spoke to the 24-year-old star, told gossip website TMZ.com that Chris said being in prison is ‘’the worst experience of my life,’’ and he feels like ‘’a caged animal.’’ He also reportedly said ‘’I’ll never fk up again.’’ The ‘Don’t Wake Me Up’ singer has been spending his time in jail writing new music and working out. But Chris could be out of jail early next week, as his lawyer is close to reaching a civil settlement with a man the star allegedly assaulted in Washington D.C. The Grammy-Award winner’s representative Mark Geragos is said to have offered Parker Adams, who claims Chris broke his nose and hurled a homophobic slur at him last October, a large financial deal in the hopes of convincing him to tell prosecutors he no longer wants to participate in the criminal case against the star. Chris, who was first placed on probation in 2009 after assaulting his then-girlfriend Rihanna, is facing a misdemeanour assault charge in relation to the incident and could be sentenced to four years in jail if convicted.
‘that was art in its purest form’ Lady Gaga defends THAT controversial vomit performance in live TV interview
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arlier this month she shocked music fans when she incorporated human vomit into her South By Southwest festival performance in Austin, Texas. But Lady Gaga has defended her actions in a first TV interview since the shocking sight. The comments were aired as part of a live interview with the Today programme in New York City on Friday morning. The Bad Romance star defended her choice to let friend Millie Brown stick her finger down her throat and vomit a revolting-looking green substance all over Gaga while singing her song Swine. ‘I guess we weren’t completely surprised. Millie and I know that not everybody’s going to love that performance,’ the 27-year-old singer told TV presenter Savannah Guthrie. ‘But we both really believe in artistic expression and strong identities,’ she continued. She added: ‘Artpop is about bringing art and music together and the spirit of creative rebellion. For us, that performance was art in its purest form. But we totally understand that some people won’t be into it.’ ‘Either way, we don’t make things for any intention in particular other than in the spirit of entertaining the crowd and creating something that is really for the moment. It wasn’t meant for the ‘Today’ show. It was meant for a club performance in Austin, and we had a great time.’ The comments come just days after fellow singer Demi Lovato called out Gaga via Twitter suggesting the onstage incident was “glamorizing” eating disorders. “Sad ... As if we didn’t have enough people glamorizing eat disorders already. Bottom line, it’s not ‘cool’ or ‘artsy’ at all,” she wrote March 14.
Jolie to release Maleficent themed kid’s clothing line A
ngelina Jolie is teaming up with Stella McCartney to design a children’s clothing line inspired by her upcoming Disney movie Maleficent. According to WWD, the collection will feature sparkly princess dresses and sandals for girls and ‘edgy T-shirts and sneakers’ for boys, with prices ranging from $75 to $185. No doubt the 38-year-old actress had her own children in mind - three of whom will have cameos in the film - when she decided to launch the clothing line, which is aimed at kids aged four to 14. One adorable look from the line is a purple leopard print dress, modeled by a young girl who pairs it with matching purple horns akin to the ones Ms Jolie dons in the movie trailer. Another ensemble, this time geared towards boys, includes a white and grey shirt with a drawing of a dragon. It’s unclear whether the boy’s grey wings and black horns will also be part of the collection. The clothes will be available in Stella McCartney stores worldwide as well as Disney stores and online at the end of April - a month before the release of the movie on May 30. This isn’t Ms McCartney’s first foray into Disney-themed fashion; in 2010, the designer created a jewelry collection for Disney inspired by Tim Burton’s Alice in Wonderland. And in 2009, she featured some characters from Bambi in an ad campaign, including the fawn himself and Thumper the rabbit. ‘I’ve always been a huge fan of Disney growing up, as was my mother, and I grew up watching all the films like most kids did,’ explained Ms McCartney. ‘When the opportunity presented itself and I was invited by Angelina Jolie to visit the film set, I jumped at the chance.’ Ten per cent of the sales made from the collection will be put towards SOS Children’s Villages, a charity that helps provide homes for children in need. ,mMs Jolie has revealed in the past that she and Brad Pitt don’t want their children to be actors, but that having her five-year-old daughter Vivienne co-star with her in Maleficent was something of a last resort. ‘The other three-and four-year-old [performers] wouldn’t come near me,’ she admitted to Entertainment Weekly. ‘It had to be a child that liked me and wasn’t afraid of my horns and my eyes and my claws. So it had to be Viv.
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Dimapur
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Sunday 23 March 2014
The Morung Express
Thunder overcome Raptors in double OT
TORONTO, MaRch 22 (aP): Kevin Durant has played in plenty of exciting, amazing and memorable games. This one topped them all. "That was the craziest game I've ever been a part of," Durant said after his go-ahead 3-pointer with 1.7 seconds left in the second overtime helped the Oklahoma City Thunder beat the Toronto Raptors 119-118 on Friday night. Durant had 51 points and 12 rebounds and AllStar guard Russell Westbrook limped off in the third quarter as the Thunder rallied in the final minute of the second extra session to win an eventful, emotional affair. "Down eight with (49 seconds) to go, and I missed a free throw late in the game, and we won?," Durant said. "Two guys foul out, Russell is out, back-toback if you want to add everything into it. Craziest game." Reggie Jackson had 25 points and 12 rebounds and Serge Ibaka scored 13 as the Thunder won their fourth straight and finished off a 3-0 road trip that also included wins at Chicago
and Cleveland. The Thunder are 12-2 on the road against Eastern Conference opponents. DeMar DeRozan scored 33 points for Toronto and Amir Johnson had 25 points and 12 rebounds in his 500th career game. Kyle Lowry scored 25 and Greivis Vasquez fouled out after scoring 21. Johnson said trying to defend Durant was a constant challenge. "It's tough," the 6-foot-9 Johnson said. "He's my height and he can shoot from half court. There isn't too much you can do but double team him." Toronto led 118-110 after a pair of free throws by Lowry with 49 seconds left, but Durant banked in a 3 and Derek Fisher also connected from long range. Toronto's John Salmons missed a pair from the line with 9.7 seconds left, setting up Durant for his winning shot. "We couldn't go another overtime," Durant said. DeRozan had one final chance for Toronto, but his turnaround jumper came up well short. "A lot of plays went our way," Oklahoma City coach Scott Brooks said. "Everything
Toronto Raptors forward Amir Johnson, left, and Jonas Valanciunas, right, defend against Oklahoma Thunder forward Kevin Durant, center, during the first half of an NBA basketball game in Toronto on Friday, March 21. (AP Photo)
had to go right and some things had to go wrong for them." Durant has scored 25 or more in 34 straight games, the league's lon-
gest streak since Michael Jordan did it in 40 consecutive games in 1986-87. Durant connected on 15 of 32 attempts, including
7 of 12 from 3-point range, and went 14 for 19 at the free throw line. He also had seven assists. "Kevin did a phenom-
enal job of making shots," Brooks said. Westbrook scored 15 points before leaving at 7:37 of the third after injuring his knee in a
collision with Lowry. Westbrook will be evaluated Saturday. Westbrook, who sat out Thursday's win at Cleveland to rest the knee that was surgically repaired for the third time earlier this season, was injured when Lowry collided with him on a pump-fake near the sideline. Westbrook immediately turned and called timeout, bending over in pain. He hobbled along the sideline for a few steps and was tended to briefly by the trainer before walking off with help from center Hasheem Thabeet. Westbrook had an ice pack on his knee after the game, but said he was "pain-free." "I don't expect to miss any time," Westbrook said. "We'll just see how it goes." Westbrook's knee problems began in April 2013, when he tore his meniscus in the second game of the Western Conference playoffs, sidelining him for the remainder of the postseason and all but ending Oklahoma City's chances of reaching the NBA Finals. He had a second arthroscopic surgery
as the Thunder were preparing for training camp after developing inflammation in the knee, but missed only two regular-season games before returning. The three-time All-Star had surgery for a third time in late December and has been on a minutes restriction since returning Feb. 20 after a 27-game absence. He came in averaging 21.4 points, 7.8 rebounds and 5.8 assists in 36 games this season. "We're confident and we've just got to believe that everything is going to be all right," Durant said of Westbrook. "He's walking around. It seems like everything is all right." Durant hit a tiebreaking 3 with 57 seconds left in the fourth quarter, putting the Thunder up 96-93, but Toronto tied it again when DeRozan made one of two from the line and Johnson scored a layup after grabbing the rebound on Lowry's missed jumper with 17 seconds left. Oklahoma City inbounded the ball and let the clock run down to five seconds before getting the ball to Durant near midcourt.
Naga Blues hold screening Upbeat India ready for Gayle challenge March 23 | 15:00 Australia Vs Pakistan of match in Dimapur March 23 | 19:00 India Vs West Indies
Members of the Naga Blues jubilant after Chelsea's demolishing of Arsenal. Naga Blues, the official fan club of Chelsea, screened the match at Quaff Lounge, Dimapur, Saturday, March 22.
DiMaPUR, MaRch 22 (MExN): Naga Blues, the official supporters club of Chelsea Football Club in Nagaland, screened the match between Chelsea and Arsenal today at Quaff Lounge, Dimapur. The Naga Blues were treated to a match beyond their wildest imaginations after Chelsea’s 6-0 humiliation of Arsenal, with every goal and every attempt on goal from Chelsea being met with thunderous claps and shouts from the fans. Naga Blues is affiliated to Chelsea India Support-
ers’ Club (CISC), a bronze tier supporters club affiliated to the English Football Club, London. Prior to the affiliation, three football enthusiast and hardcore Chelsea fans - Moyithung Ezung, Ren Murry, and Asalie Peseyie – formed an unofficial club in Dimapur in 2009. Ever since then, the three have organised regular match screenings in Dimapur and Kohima. The Naga Blues got affiliated to CISC in 2012. CISC has over 20,000 members with Naga Blues adding to India’s Blue
Angami Sports Association felicitates Angami wrestlers
KOhiMa, MaRch 22 (MExN): “To achieve something high, cannot be done overnight. Just as students study day and night to achieve good grades, so is the same with sportspersons,” said Chief Guest, Medozhalie Pienyü, Deputy Commandant General Homeguards & Civil Defence, Nagaland Kohima at the Wrestlers 2014 Felicitation program organized by the Angami Sports Association (ASA) on March 22 at The Heritage, Kohima. The program was chaired by Visaselie Suohu, General Secretary, ASA, while a prayer was invoked by Khrieneiu Metha, Pastor Peniel Church, Kohima. The welcome address was given by Neisievilie Lhousa, President, ASA, whereby he congratulated the wrestlers for bringing laurels to the association, while a report was given by the team Manager. Atoto Kire gave a speech on behalf of the wrestlers. A special number was presented by Neimenuo Soliezuo while the vote of thanks was pronounced by Athobu Meyase, Assistant General Secretary, ASA. Medozhalie Pienyü, while appreciating the Angami Wrestlers for their achievement also encouraged them to manage their time, maintain discipline, food and daily exercise. Quoting a Chinese Proverb, ‘Be good to the people you meet when you are going up because you will meet them when you come down,’ Pienyü exhorted them that success is shortlived and that all have to depend on each other and as players he urged them to play honestly and together build up the Naga society.
Basketball tourney in Kohima
KOhiMa, MaRch 22 (MExN): Kohima Quakers is organizing the 1st open basketball tournament (in memory of Neiphrelie Linyii) from April 2 to 4 at local ground, Kohima. The total cash prize for the tournament is Rs.50,000 with running trophy, certificates, gifts hampers for highest individual scorer from quarter-finals onwards . Forms are available at Rutsa Bakery, Old NST, Solo Enterprise High School junction, Rutsas Bakery, Jail colony and Com Hub near NSF office.
Army by 157 supporters. Officially though, CISC has about 5000 certified members, out of which 53 are members from Naga Blues. CISC currently organizes screenings in 11 cities with Dimapur as one of the venues. Naga Blues in their bid to add to their existing supporters’ base have welcomed other supporters of Chelsea who wish to join the ‘official supporters club’ of Chelsea in Nagaland. More information on Naga Blues can be found on their Facebook page.
MiRPUR, MaRch 22 (PTi): Their sagging morale lifted after a thumping win over Pakistan, Indian spinners will now have to brace up for the everdangerous Chris Gayle when the team squares off against defending champion West Indies in its second match of the ICC World Twenty20 Championships on Sunday. A victory against Pakistan was just the kind of shot in the arm that was required before facing a team that has world's most devastating T20 batsman in Gayle. While a rampaging Gayle can take away the game at any point of time with his blazing bat, the Indian spin trio of Ravichandran Ashwin, Amit Mishra and Ravindra Jadeja will definitely pose a few problems for the 'Jamaican Marauder'. Gayle has minimum footwork as he believes in stand and hit technique. With Ashwin successfully employing a round the wicket technique to bottle up batsman and Mishra inviting him to come out by flighting his deliveries, it will be a challenge for Gayle to devise a counter strategy. While spinners will hold the key, Dhoni would also expect that Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Mohammed Shami don't bowl length balls to Gayle as it has a chance of consistent-
ly landing in the stands. However, Indian bowlers will also have to deal with an attacking batsman like Dwayne Smith, who has the ability to hit over the in-field consistently during Powerplay overs. Dwayne Bravo and Marlon Samuels are also capable enough to destroy any bowling attack on their day. While Samuels might take some time to settle down, he can effortlessly shift gears as he had shown some 18 months ago during the last edition's final at the Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. The Indian batsmen had an easy day in office against Pakistan with a smaller target to chase. But both Shikhar Dhawan and Rohit Sharma would also do well to get a big score under their belt. The two openers got good starts yesterday but failed to convert them into big scores. Dhawan's perennial problem against the short ball was again exposed as Gul got him with a welldirected bouncer. The lefthander's habit of not having proper balance while playing the hook shot has been causing his downfall. Rohit, on the other hand, had played some fantastic shots including a six over long on off Umar Gul. But as has been his problem, he wasted a good start trying to play a cut shot to a sharp offbreak from Saeed Ajmal.
India's captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni plays with a soccer ball during a training session ahead of their ICC Twenty20 Cricket World Cup match against West Indies in Dhaka, Bangladesh, Saturday, March 22. (AP Photo)
Sri Lanka beat South Africa by 5 runs
NEW DELhi, MaRch 22 (REUTERS): Lasith Malinga and Nuwan Kulasekara held their nerve in the death overs with miserly fast bowling as Sri Lanka beat South Africa by five runs in their World Twenty20 opener at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in Chittagong on Saturday. South Africa had the upper hand chasing 166 for victory in their Group One super 10 match and needed 19 runs off the last two overs with five wickets in hand. But Kulasekara gave away just four runs and picked up the wicket of Farhaan Behardien (five) to leave South Africa needing 15 runs off limited-overs specialist Malinga's final over. Dale Steyn (zero) and the dangerous David Miller (19) were run out off the first two deliveries and although Imran Tahir (eight not out) managed a last-ball six, the chase had already gone out of South Africa's
reach. JP Duminy (39) top-scored for the Proteas, who ended on 160 for eight, and off-spinner Sachithra Senanayake was the most successful Sri Lankan bowler with figures of two for 22. Opener Kusal Perera's assault gave Sri Lanka the tempo at the start of their innings and Angelo Mathews provided the late fireworks to lift them to 165 for seven after their captain Dinesh Chandimal had won the toss. The diminutive Perera made clear his intentions with two fours and a six in three deliveries off Steyn's opening over and brought up his fifty off just 29 balls. He made with 61 off 40 balls, including six fours and three sixes, before falling to leg-spinner Tahir, who stemmed the run flow and picked up three wickets for 26 runs. Mathews was bowled by Steyn in the final over of the Sri Lanka innings but not before the test and 50-over captain had compiled 43 off 32 balls.
Bayern gets ManU, Madrid faces Dortmund Van out for 4-6 weeks with sprained knee
Paul Logothetis AP Sports Writer
Manchester United's already arduous season just got tougher. The English champions were drawn Friday to face Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarterfinals, pitting them against the defending champions and the favorites. "I was thrilled that we were in the draw. In a lot of ways, it didn't matter who we drew," said Manchester United manager David Moyes, who has led United into the quarterfinals for the first time since reaching the 2011 final. "But we have pulled out the favorites." In the other quarterfinal pairings, Real Madrid will face Borussia Dortmund in a rematch of last year's semifinals, Spanish clubs Barcelona and Atletico Madrid will meet for a spot in the next round, and Paris Saint-German will take on 2012 champion Chelsea. United and Barcelona will host the opening two matches on April 1, while Madrid and PSG are at home for their first
Former Portuguese national soccer player Luis Figo, right, shows a ticket with Germany's soccer team FC Bayern Munich next to UEFA General Secretary Gianni Infantino, left, during the draw of the quarterfinals of UEFA Champions League 2013/14 at the UEFA Headquarters in Nyon, Switzerland, Friday, March 21. (AP Photo)
legs on April 2. The return legs will be played on April 8-9. Five-time champion Bayern will be looking to heap even more pressure on Moyes. United is a disappointing seventh in the Premier League and likely needs to win the Champions League to qualify for next season's competition. "Perhaps they are not in
the best form, but they are still a top team," said Bayern winger Arjen Robben, who scored a late goal to eliminate United from the competition at the same stage four years ago. "It's a good draw, we play away first." Bayern, meanwhile, is unbeaten in 50 Bundesliga games under coach Pep Guardiola and leads
second-place Dortmund by 23 points. Dortmund beat Madrid in the semifinals last year before losing to Bayern in the final at Wembley Stadium. But Madrid is unbeaten in 31 games in all competitions, and Cristiano Ronaldo leads the Champions League with 13 goals this season.
MaNchESTER, MaRch 22 (aP): Manchester United striker Robin van Persie will miss up to six weeks with a left knee injury, ruling the Netherlands striker out of both legs of a Champions League quarterfinal against Bayern Munich and potentially six Premier League games. It is a major blow to United's hopes of winning the Champions League, which realistically is the club's only route back into Europe's top competition next season. Following a second scan on the injury on Friday, United said Van Persie has a "sprained knee which will keep him out for around 4-6 weeks." He appears to be in no danger of missing the World Cup finals in Brazil beginning in mid-June — the worst-case scenario according to United's diagnosis is that Van Persie is out until the start of May, leaving him available for the last two or three league games in United's season. Van Persie, who has scored 23 goals in 29 games for club and country this season, was carried off on a stretcher after hurt-
ing his knee in a challenge from behind toward the end of Wednesday's 3-0 victory over Olympiakos, in which he scored a hat trick to send his team into the last eight. United is seventh in the Premier League after its humiliating 3-0 loss to Liverpool last weekend, 12 points adrift of fourth-place Manchester City having played two more games. A finish in the top six would qualify United for next season's Europa League, and sixth-place Everton is three points ahead with a game in hand. It will be a second significant spell on the sidelines for Van Persie this season — he played just two games across 2½ months over the turn of the year because of groin then thigh problems. The news punctures some of the optimism that has spread through Old Trafford after the victory over Olympiakos, which came just as the pressure was beginning to build on manager David Moyes. Moyes has Danny Welbeck and Javier Hernandez as alternatives up front to partner Wayne Rooney.
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Chelsea Destroy Arsenal
Chelsea blew away Premier League title rivals Arsenal inside 17 madcap minutes at Stamford Bridge as Arsene Wenger's 1,000th game in charge turned horribly sour and ended in a humiliating 6-0 defeat.
Chelsea's Andre Schuerrle, right celebrates with teammates after scoring his sides second goal during their English Premier League soccer match between Chelsea and Arsenal at Stamford Bridge stadium in London, Saturday, March 22. (AP Photo)
London, Mar ch 22 (agencies): Jose Mourinho, who now boasts an 11-game unbeaten record against his bitter rival, saw his leaders roar into a 2-0 lead after just seven minutes courtesy of goals from Samuel Eto'o and the outstanding Andre Schurrle. That was dramatic
enough, but the main talking point arrived soon after as Chelsea were awarded a penalty when Alex OxladeChamberlain dived to push an Eden Hazard shot, which looked to be heading wide anyway, past the post. Referee Andre Marriner took his time before
awarding a spot-kick and then brandished an inevitable red card, only to show it in the face of a bemused Kieran Gibbs, who protested his innocence, while replays appeared to show Oxlade-Chamberlain approach the official to say: "Ref, it was me."
Marriner would not be swayed, leaving Gibbs with no option but to trudge disconsolately down the tunnel, while Hazard kept his nerve to convert down the middle of the goal after waiting for Wojciech Szczesny to commit himself. The Gunners chose another meeting with a title rival to produce one of their most meek displays, with the astonishing capitulation amidst a raft of basic passing errors reminiscent of their recent drubbing by Liverpool at Anfield. Arsenal were never in the game, such was their profligacy in possession, and once the unfortunate Gibbs had been given his marching orders they were simply in damage limitation mode, only for Oscar (two) and Mohamed Salah to add further gloss to the scoreline before the final whistle sounded. A warning of what was to come arrived with only three minutes gone when Laurent Koscielny's poor pass only found Schurrle, whose through-ball towards Eto'o was cut out by Szczesny. Play switched to the other end and Petr Cech produced an excellent low save to deny Olivier Giroud following Tomas Rosicky's pass, although the French striker failed to make a clean contact. Schurrle and Eto'o then combined to devastating effect in the fifth minute, with the German feeding his forward colleague after Arsenal ceded possession in the centre and the Cameroon forward turned Oxlade-Chamberlain before curling a left foot shot beyond Szczesny's despairing dive. Arsenal did not learn. They gave the ball away once again in the middle and then allowed Schurrle to advance unchecked to the edge of the box before he drilled a low shot into a static Szczesny's bottom corner.
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THE GLOBAL OPEN UNIVERSITY NAGALAND Presents
Trendz-O-Mania The 3rd Annual Fashion Show 2014
Special Appearance: Chekrovolu Swuro unitexLOGO.pdf
(The first Naga Female Olympian, Recipient of Arjuna Awardees 2013, Nagaland State Youth Icon 2013) Venue: Molu ki, Para medical Colony, Kohima Featuring : Mengu Suokhrie Date: 26th March 2014,Time: 05:00 Pm
: Lc Sekhose
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Venue: Molu ki, Para medical Colony, Kohima Date: 26th March 2014,Time: 05:00 Pm
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ENTRY ONLY BY INVITATION & DONORS
Admissions Open from May 2014 * BBA FD (3 Years) & * Short Term Course(6 Months) Kohima Campus
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DONOR CARDS WILL ALSO BE AVAILABLE AT THE VENUE ON THE DAY OF THE EVENT.
FOR DONOR CARDS & INVITATION PLEASE CONTACT BELOW: OFFICE ADDRESS: DEPARTMENT OF FASHION TECHNOLOGY, THE GLOBAL OPEN UNIVERSITY, NAGALAND, KOHIMA CAMPUS, NEAR VETERINARY and A & H OFFICE, TINPATI JUNCTION, PEZIELIETSIE COLONY, KOHIMA, NAGALAND- 797001. CONTACT NO : (O) 0370-2260569, 9856205680 (M) EMAIL: openedu@rediffmail.com, FAX: 0370-2260573
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