December 10th, 2016

C M Y K

www.morungexpress.com

SaturDaY • December 10 • 2016

DIMAPUR • Vol. XI • Issue 339 • 12 PAGes • 5

T H e

ESTD. 2005

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If we destroy human rights and rule of law in the response to terrorism, they have won — Joichi Ito Ex-IAF chief S.P. Tyagi arrested in Agusta Westland probe

Boxer Mary Kom to return to 48kg category

‘We must give a chance for children to teach us’

PaGe 08

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PAGE 12

re-thinking naga cultural practices and memories

reflections

By Sandemo Ngullie

the hutton lectures symposium Morung Express News Kohima | December 9

Cashless society sounds really good, but what’ll happen to ‘cashless’ people like me?

Hornbill festival grand finale today Our Correspondent Kohima | December 9

The Hornbill Festival of Nagaland will conclude on December 10 with Amitabh Kant, CEO, NITI AAYOG as the chief guest. Apart from daily normal activities and cultural extravaganza, Naga chilli eating competition is expected to pull a huge crowd on the last day, starting from 2:30 PM at Kisama.

The Grand finale of the festival with bon fire lighting and unity dance by cultural troupes have been scheduled at 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM at Kisama. Trail Hounds Mountain biking will take place in Mokokchung from 7:30 AM. The Hornbill International Music Festival 2016 and the Winter Cosplay Festival organized by the Nagaland Anime Junkies will start from 7:00 PM till 10:00 PM at Indira Gandhi Stadium.

0ver 1 lakh visitors till Dec 9 1,00,320 visitors are registered to have attended this year’s Hornbill Festival till December 9 at Kisama.

The number of foreign visitors stands at 1381. 12, 943 domestic tourists are registered to have come along with 85,996 visitors from within the state.

SNF band from Dimapur struck the right notes to walk away as the winner of the prestigious Hornbill International Rock Contest 2016. The band beat 18 bands to become the winner at the grand finale held at IG Stadium, Meriema on Friday as part of the Hornbill Festival of Nagaland. (Morung Photo)

Let us go ahead with town council elections, says CM Morung Express News

Mangkolemba | December 9

Mangkolemba ADC Headquarters celebrated its 25th anniversary here today with Chief Minister TR Zeliang as the chief guest.

Mangkolemba ADC Hq, which is one of the biggest sub-divisions in Nagaland, today looks after three ranges under Mokokchung district – Jangpetkong, Tsurangkong and Japukong range – which in the words of Dr Longri, Chairman, DAN & NBRM ‘covers almost fifty percent of Mokokchung district’.

Chief Minister, TR Zeliang, while speaking at the programme, made an impassioned speech about town councils, municipalities, Article 371 (A) and women reservations.

He disclosed that the migration from the villages to towns is at 66 percent in Nagaland. Implying that the number of urban population is growing, the Chief Minister, however, lamented that the urban population in small towns are ‘sandwiched’ between the urban and rural world.

He said that the villages, under the VDB or Rural Development, are

receiving funds for their development. But the towns and municipalities, because of the failure to conduct the municipal and town council elections due to the 33 percent reservation and other issues, the towns are ‘sandwiched’ in a state between stagnation and want of development.

He lamented how far the Naga people would go on, denying urban development, keeping in view the stagnation of the urban development for the past decade.

Questioning customary laws, the CM pointed out that there is already 25 percent reservation in the Village Development Board (VDB) accepted by the villages which the Government agreed to; therefore, he wondered what harm 33 percent reservation in the municipalities or town councils would do to Naga customary laws under Article 371 (A).

He nonetheless asserted that Article 371 (A) is the most important act in the Indian constitution for the Naga people. However, he cautioned that if the Naga people are not careful with regard to its interpretation then it would lead to more problems.

The CM lamented that today Article 371 (A) is being invoked in every issue, and that a time might come when the very Article 371 (A) might become valueless. About 33 percent reservation, he disclosed that the Nagaland government listened to the objections raised by certain civil societies about ‘land and house tax’ and about ‘Scheduled Caste’ in the Municipal Act; the same was amended in ‘November’.

‘What is good for the people, we are here to do good for the people.

What is not good for the people, we are ready to amend it,” said the CM. He therefore strongly asserted that the state government’s decision to go ahead with the municipal and town council elections is not based on individual or vested interests but keeping in mind the greater interest of the Naga people.

“Let us go ahead with town council elections…let us march ahead with progress,” said the CM. Earlier in the programme, Parliamentary Secretary, Dr Benjongliba Aier delivered the welcome address while MLA, Dr Longri; ADC Mokokchung, Bendanglila and Ex Minister, Tiameren delivered short speeches.

The second day of the fourth edition of the Hutton Lectures Symposium held on December 9 at de Oriental Grande, Kohima discoursed on ‘Foods, orality, language, and practices’, ‘Orality, knowledge, and transmission’, and ‘Indigenous knowledge in contemporary times’.

While presenting her paper on ‘Women’s writing on the Nagas: A study of MM Clark’s A corner in India and Mildred Archer’s Journey to Nagaland’,Temsurenla Ozukum, from ICFAI University Nagaland mentioned that the few female voices in the colonial era in the Naga Hills provided insightful perspectives and pre-conceived notions of the Nagas by outsiders.

“As women writers though both writings were personal they have made many observations about the Nagas be it their physical features, way of life, role in the family, society and the church and their costumes. Their observations and writings on the Nagas adds a different dimension to the already vast collection of knowledge on the Nagas by the colonial writers mostly men,” said Ozukum attributing Archer and Clark for providing rare perspectives on the Naga way of life during the colonial period, which most male writers failed to identify.

Their writings, however, also revealed the insular mindsets outsiders perceived on the Nagas as Ozukum aptly pointed out: “Their thoughts have been restructured to acknowledge and proclaim that the outside world was far better and advanced.”

Akha Kahirii Mao, Ambedkar University Delhi who presented a paper on ‘Morung, the traditional education system of the Nagas: A study of the Mao-Nagas’ spoke on the dormitory systems in different Naga societies, various perspectives of the Morung system, and functions and practices of the Morung system among Mao Nagas.

Stressing on the relevance of the Morung in the modern education system, Akha mentioned that the working of ‘the Morung can be used as an example of the ideal state-education relationship, sustaining the public education institutions and providing for its upkeep, the Morung was totally looked after by the village and common resources.’

According to Akha Mao, the Morung also encapsulated some of the cherished values of the Indian constitution such as equality and fraternity, in terms of its functioning. However, Mao also pointed out that the Morung

should also be critiqued as it was marked by strict gender-differentiation.

Further recommendations were also given to document and study other similar institutions across communities, preserve various historical artifacts, folktales and folklore. The need to study historically and sociologically institutions, including endangered languages, skills and customs was stressed, where Mao also reminded appropriate precautions need to be taken in order to preserve certain cultural legacies.

In her presentation on ‘Re-thinking Naga Cultural Practice and Memories’ Dr Hewasa Lorin, Tetseo College, Dimapur posited that “the re-articulation of cultural practices under different conditions of significance is never a recovery of an ‘original’ tradition.”

A major consequence of the colonial and missionary interventions in Naga society was the renouncing of traditional practices. This, Dr. Lorin viewed was just one part of the story, the other being the Nagas rejecting their traditional practices themselves, in their quest for modernization.

“The ‘traditional’ came to seem discreditable and was thus disavowed by the Nagas when they attempted to conform to modernity. But this led to feelings of anxiety, as the result of a disavowal that was incomplete: neither total conformity to the new morality nor total disavowal of the traditional morality,” claimed Dr. Lorin.

These feelings of anxiety were best manifested in dreams which often appear to include contradictions. Although the ‘dream’ was a traditional genre of dubious epistemic value for a modern self-knowledge, Dr. Lorin interestingly propounded that dreams played a significant role in the cultural realm of the Nagas which was used to make sense of contemporary events. “The belief in dreams was so powerful that much of the decisions and choices in their daily lives were dependent on them,” said Dr. Lorin, who cited stories of Nagas and their dreams associating with historical or past memories.

While speaking on the use of dreams in contemporary times, Dr Lorin’s theory indicated how for Nagas even in contemporary times, dreams are connected to the lived memories of Nagas. Further, it also indicates that the politics of memory shapes the dreams of Nagas in contemporary times.

Thus, the need for re-thinking of cultural practices and memories in Naga society.

Celebrate the holidays in Gov asks Nagaland govt to form Human Rights Commission an eco friendly way: NPCB

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DIMAPUR, DECEMBER 9 (MExN): The Nagaland Pollution Control Board (NPCB) has urged people in the state to celebrate Christmas and New Year in an eco-friendly way and save the environment from pollution.

A press release from the NPCB informed that it had via a notification on April 27, 2016 observed that fire crackers are widely used during the festive seasons like Diwali, Chhath Puja, Christmas, New Year, Weddings, and Birthdays etc.

Fire crackers emit noise and gas during bursting and the Government of India under the Noise (Regulation and Control of Pollution) Rule, 2000 had laid down certain rules in order to regulate noise so that people are least disturbed.

It informed that the Deputy Commissioner is the authority to implement the said rule; bursting of crackers during night time i.e. 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM is not permitted; and that fire crackers above 125 decibels are banned.

In addition to the above Rules, the Nagaland Pollution Control Board under Section 31 A of the Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1981 and Section 8 of The Noise (Regulation and Control

of Pollution) Rule, 2000 directed that if there is to be firework; prior permission has to be taken from the concerned administration who shall give permission to carry out the firework specifying the time and place for the purpose (away from the hospitals, schools, residential areas).

In addition, wide publicity shall be given prior to the event to avoid panic to the people in the vicinity and to maintain congenial environment, prevent annoyance, disturbance, and discomfort to the public.

The NPCB stated that bursting of crackers is primarily responsible for an increase in concentration of dust and pollutants. The fine dust that settles after bursting crackers is rich in pollutants like oxides of sulphur and nitrogen, metal dust and organic pollutants.

It further causes noise pollution, air pollution, is a fire hazard and contributes to accumulation of garbage. The NPCB pointed out that the sound of firecrackers can also be traumatic to pets.

Further, it informed that fumes that the levels of various chemicals used in making fire crackers are injurious to respiratory passages.

DIMAPUR, DECEMBER 9 (MExN): Nagaland State Governor, PB Acharya today appealed to the Nagaland State Government to expedite the formation of the Human Rights Commission for the State as per the constitutional provision.

He asked all stake holders to come forward to discuss on the issues of human rights through organizing political conferences, meetings, exhibitions, cultural

events, debates, etc. and help spread awareness to let people learn their rights through various sources like social media, posters, music, drama, dance, fine art, etc.

In a statement coinciding with Human Rights Day, which falls on December 10, the Governor also urged action to encourage vulnerable groups of people like women, minorities, youth, poor, disabled person, indigenous people, etc to take part in

this event of decision-making.

“I appeal to all to come together to protect our inherent rights as the day is observed and celebrated to improve the physical, social, cultural & spiritual well being and welfare of the vulnerable group of people. To deny people their human rights is to challenge their very humanity.

The rights of every man are diminished when the rights of one man are threatened. Wherever

men and women are persecuted because of their race, religion, or political views that place must immediately become the centre of attention,” he said.

The change you and I want to see in our society, schools, and workplaces, begins with self. Together we can make a better future for our children and the future generation, the Governor encouraged.

Human rights, he stated are held by all human beings and hu-

man rights will as long as human beings exist. Both are inalienable and cannot be separated, he added while stating that “today’s human rights violations are the causes of tomorrow’s conflicts.”

Human Rights Day is observed by the international community every year on 10 December. It was first announced to be celebrated every year by the United Nations General Assembly on December 10, 1948.

two godowns accused of diverting pDs rice

Village councils seal the premises Morung Express News Dimapur | December 9

Two privately owned godowns in Dimapur have been accused of allegedly diverting rice meant for Public Distribution System (PDS) into the open market.

This came to attention when the two godowns – M/S RZ Lotha at Kevijau Colony and M/S Lotha Trading Agency at Lhomithi Colony – were found repacking the FCI rice, which comes packed in jute gunny bags, into white synthetic bags.

According to the Food Corporation of India (FCI) Dimapur, rice meant for PDS is never supplied in white synthetic bags but in

A portable electric bag sewing machine used for stitching the synthetic rice bags. One of the godowns stacked with FCI gunny rice bags and illegally repacked rice in white synthetic bags. (Morung Photo)

jute gunny bags only.

The godown at Kevijau Colony had about 18500 gunny bags of FCI rice and about 3500 bags of FCI rice repacked in white synthetic bags while the godown at Lhomithi Colony had about 3500 gunny bags of FCI rice and about 500 bags

of FCI rice in white synthetic bags. A loaded truck with 340 bags of white synthetic bags was also found from inside the premises of the godown at Kevijau colony.

Against Corruption and Unabated Taxation (ACAUT) was alerted and it promptly visited the prem-

ises of the two godowns along with the Concerned Citizens of Nagaland (CCN), youth and village councils from the surrounding villages.

The ACAUT later filed an FIR at the Sub-Urban Police Station against the owners of the two godowns alleging

that they were indulging in “illegal activity”. The ACAUT further held the Food & Civil Supplies Department responsible for allowing both the firms to operate godowns in private establishments other than the designated FCI godowns.

The FCI rice in PDS

outlets (or Fair Price Shop) is sold for Rs 3/kg or Rs 150 per bag for ration card holders and according to sources, the 50-kilo bag, once repacked and in the open market, can cost upwards of Rs. 1200.

Meanwhile, the Chairmen of the 10 village councils: Kevijau Colony, Thahekhu Village, Signal Angami, Lhomithi Colony, Nagagaon, Sematilla, Metha Colony, Sangtamtilla, Rio Colony and Y. Zhimo Colony accused the two godowns with “siphoning PDS rice” and sealed both the godowns on Friday evening.

“Hence, in the interest of public of Nagaland, we the colony chairmen have jointly sealed the premises till a logical conclusion is arrived,” the Chairmen of the 10 village councils stated in a press release.

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SaturDaY 10•12•2016

NAGALAND

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

70 trainees under DUDA pass out Morung Express News Dimapur | December 9

Altogether 70 trainees – 40 males from Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) Driving and 30 females from House Keeping sector passed out under the centrally sponsored Border Area Development Programme (BADP) with Department of Underdeveloped Areas (DUDA) as the nodal department.

Under the BADP, various capacity building/skill development programmes are organized by the DUDA in collaboration with different training institutes and training providers. The 70 trainees underwent two months course at Pinnacle Skills, Dimapur.

Speaking as the special guest The Chairman of Officer's Hill Colony Council, Kohima and his colleagues with the Governor of Nagaland, PB Acharya after their meeting at Raj Bhavan on December 9. at the certificate distribution programme in Dimapur on Friday, (Photo Courtesy/PRO Raj Bhavan)

DUDA officers, trainers and trainees seen after the certificate distribution programme in Dimapur held on December 9. (Morung Photo)

Secretary DUDA, Senti Ao spoke about the special focus that the centre was providing for those living in the borders and encouraged them to avail the opportunities.

He advised the passing out trainees to be polite and decent in their profession and become

responsible citizens. To those passing out in LMV Driving, Senti urged them to be courteous and follow traffic rules.

He also advised the girls in House Keeping sector to strongly uphold their morality wherever they work.

Chief Executive, Pinnacle Skills, Dimapur, Dr Yan Murry spoke about the overview of the training. The programme was attended by DUDA Director, Anden Konyak, Project Officer DUDA, Thepfuzakie Angami and other dignitaries.

‘We must give a chance for children to teach us’ Chakhesang Sükrünye 2017

Stepping Stones “Musical Night” and graduation ceremony held Morung Express News Dimapur | December 9

Students of Stepping Stones located at ADC Court Junction, Dimapur presented a wonderful “Musical Night” this evening at the school premises. Displaying their year’s work, the students presented an array of songs, dances, and skits. Right after this, the graduation ceremony was also held.

“In this fast changing world, the emphasis on early childhood is growing. Our society tends to focus more on higher education. However, the nature and pace at which the world is changing points to needs for children’s roots and foundation to be strong,” stated Akhono, Administrator of Stepping Stones in an address to the

(LEFT) Asangba Chuba Ao (IAS), Commissioner of Taxes Nagaland. (RIGHT) Students of Stepping Stones performing at the “Musical Night” and graduation ceremony held on December 9. (Morung Photo)

parents and well-wishers at the event.

She added, “Stepping Stones is completing seven years, and it has been a fulfilling seven years of interacting with and learning from children. This has made us realize that the world has so much to learn from children, we must give them a chance to teach

us and at the same time it is our responsibility to leave a better world for them.”

She also expressed that Stepping Stones is fortunate to have teachers who are not only committed, sincere and hardworking but also using their personal dedication to the growth of every child. She added, “We have also had

a lot of parents who have requested and encouraged us to upgrade. For the past few years, we were not in a position to upgrade the classes. From the next academic year, Stepping Stone will have an additional class which is class 1. We plan to upgrade one class every year for which we need to shift to a bigger

building. So, we are shifting to a building on DABA Road, Duncan Basti.”

Asangba Chuba Ao (IAS), Commissioner of Taxes Nagaland who was the guest speaker for the evening also stated that as a parent trying to build a modern family, there are many challenges in today’s world. He briefly highlight-

ed on issues of how much information is too much when it comes to dealing with young children. He also spoke on limitations of freedom and how one should prepare their child to face adversaries in life.

He also advocated teaching young children about the value systems of our culture and tradition. This, he said was the key to bringing up good citizens and positive contributors to our society.

He also wished the Stepping Stones Institution a very bright future in imparting education to children.

It was mentioned that Stepping Stones was initiated by the Common Visions Foundation in the year 2010 with a vision to impart and facilitate value based education in a fun and safe environment.

LADP 2016-17 Committee for Wokha approved WoKha, December 9 (Dipr): The monthly district Planning and Development Board meeting was held on December 9 at DC conference hall, Wokha under the chairmanship of DC & V/ chairman, Wezope Kenye.

The board approved LADP 2016-17 implementation committee for four Assembly constituencies and common Pool for Wokha district 38 AC with convenor SDO (C) Hq, DHO and EE. PWD (R&B) as members, 38 AC with ADC HQ as convenor, Assistant Er CAWD and DPO Land Resource as members, 39 AC with SDO (C)

Sanis as convenor, BDO and SDO (R&B) Sanis as members and 40 AC with ADC Bhandari convenor, SDO (R&B) BDO Chanpang and SDO (c) Ralan as members.

Regarding the representation submitted by Lotha Hoho for adherence to norms for development in the district, the chairman requested all members to take note and work with sincerity for the welfare of the community.

ADC, Wokha, Thavaseelan (IAS) highlighted about the ongoing project UJALA Scheme and affordable LED bulb where he in-

formed all to avail the same from DC office and warned the public not to buy or resell the products.

Power point presentation was presented by DFO, Wokha Zuthunglo Patton (IFS) where he highlighted in detail about the department activities. The board decided that the next World Environment Day Wokha DPDB will carry out plantation drive at Mt. Tiyi Reserve Forest. Team Metamorphosis also presented power point presentation.

The meeting the board also approved for registration of Wokha District Entrepreneur Association.

Pensioners may log on to www.agnagaland.gov.in by clicking at Felicitation and Pension or GPF Felicitation or by directly clicking on the Sticky Note written ‘Click here to view list of settled Pension /GPF final payment cases.’

The list has also been put up for display at the Public Relation Cell and can be view on any working days during Office hours.

Aggrieved Pensioners or government officials with genuine problems are requested once again write directly to the Deputy Ac-

countant General (A&E) Kahoto J Yepthomi via email at kahoto_j@yahoo. co.in or agaenagaland@cag. gov.in or through a handwritten letter on the address given below for immediate clarification and redressal of their grievances.

They can also submit suggestions to strengthen the delivery system.

All Heads of Department in the state government are requested once again to ensure timely submission of all retirement related documents (that is, six months before the date

District workshop on RSBY at Wokha

WoKha, December 9 (mexN): The Chief Medical Officer, Wokha along with District Health Society, Department of Health and Family Welfare, NHM conducted District Workshop on Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojna (RSBY) for Wokha district and Chukitong Block at DC conference Hall on December 8. DR. Tumchobeni, Dy Chief Medical Officer Wokha in a press release informed that Tharaseelan (IAS), Additional Deputy Commissioner Wokha District, as the chief guest briefed about the importance of RSBY and Senior Citizens Health Insurance. The resource person was Dr. Kika, Deputy Director, DHFW, Nagaland, Kohima. The workshop was chaired by Suzie Ngully, DCM, the program was address by Dr. Tumchobeni Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Wokha. Vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Enrithung Lotha, Chief Medical Officer, Wokha Dr. Abenthung Murry (MO Wokha Sadar), Dr. LT Tsanglao (GD, Wozhuro PHC), Dr. Emmanuel, (SMO, Bhandari) and BACs, ASHA, Chairman, VDB Secretary of Chukitong Block and Reliance co-ordinator and Smart IT were some of the officials present in the workshop.

ATMA Niuland conducts joint visit

SNDT Women’s University, as year of centennial year under empowerment of women through education from Mumbai, in collaboration with Indian national fellowship centre (INFC) organized national integration camp for Cultural Exchange programme at Nagaland from December 2 to 12. 25 girls students guided by their two female and two male teachers presented their cultural items at Durbar Hall Raj Bhavan Kohima on December 9. Students from Maharashtra presented their culture items including Bharatnatyam University song, Lavani dance, Lezim dance and also sang the National anthem. (DIPR Photo)

Collect Treasury Office copies: Account General

Kohima, December 9 (mexN): All Sr. Treasury Officers/Treasury Officers are requested to collect Treasury Office copies from December 14 onwards so as to enable pensioners to draw their pension benefits before Christmas.

The Account General office in a press release has also informed all retired State Government officers/ officials that Pension and GPF Final payment cases settled upto the month of November 2016 have been uploaded on the AG Nagaland website.

Kohima, December 9 (mexN): The Chakhesang Sükrünye Festival Committee under the aegis of the Chakhesang Hoho Kohima will be organising Chakhesang Sükrünye 2017 on January 14 next year at Kohima Local Ground with the theme "Envisioning Unity & Harmony." It is aimed at preserving and promoting the great culture and tradition and in perseverance of belongingness and oneness on the path of growth and progress as a tribe, the committee said in a communiqué. In this regard, the Committee invites all the Chakhesang village units based at Kohima to attend a meeting with two representatives each for deliberation and preparation on December 17 at 1:00 PM in Conclave Hall, LCS Building, Kohima. The press communique issued Theja Therieh, President, Chakhesang Hoho Kohima and Thupukutho Lohe, Member Secy. Chakhesang Sükrünye 2017 Festival Committee informed all the Committee members and concerned leaders/representatives to attend the said meeting positively.

of retirement) to avoid harassment to retired officials at various processing stages. Cases of many officials received before the date of retirement have been settled by this Office on their retirement date/day as a demonstration of seriousness this office accords to sensitivities of retired officials and their retirement benefits. Departments may seriously take up the matter of timely submission of retirement documents, so as to enable the pensioners to receive their retirement benefits in time.

Dimapur, December 9 (mexN): ATMA Dimapur (Niuland Block) conducted demonstration programme at Niuland Town on November 2. Resource person Kolom Rabi, SMS (Plant Breeding), KVK-ICAR, Jharnapani spoke on ‘Cultivation practices of garden pea, winter maize and vegetables.’ He elaborated on planting methods, sowing, seed rate, treatment, tillage, nutrient and water management and pests’ management. Further, joint visit was conducted by ATMA and KVK officials at the mango plantation farm and mustard field in Niuland Town and farmers were given technical advice on water, nutrient and pests management. During the programme chaired by Demalu Hasnusa, BTM Niuland Block, vegetable and maize seeds were distributed to the women farmers.

World Disabled Day 2016 celebrated at Kohima Village ATMA Dhansiripar block

Kohima, December 9 (mexN): More than 200 people gathered for the international observance of World Disability Day or International Day of Persons with Disabilities at Kohima Village Council Hall on December 3. It was organised

by Cherry Blossoms Society in collaboration with the Rotary Club, Kohima along with Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) from Kohima village, Chedema and Chedema model village. A press note informed that Pheluopfhelie Kesiezie was the Chief Guest and Dr

Rosemary Dzüvichü was the Guest of Honour during the celebration.

It featured National Anthem in Sign Language by the Students of Cherry Blossoms School and number of other performances by children in the form of dances, duet & chorography, it added The Rotarians of Kohima gave away gifts of woollen fleece to all the differentlyabled and old people who attended the function. It ended with a note that People with Disability should be given an equal platform in all walks of life.

conducts demonstration

Dimapur, December 9 (mexN): ATMA-Dimapur, Dhansiripar block conducted demonstration on Potato cultivation and Land preparation for field pea and Joint visit of ATMA & AICRP, SASRD to potato field at Bade and Dhansiripar village on December 7. Resource person Lawrence Kithan, Scientist (Agronomy), AICRP, SASRD spoke on the important aspects of field pea and potato cultivation starting from soil management, land preparation, spacing, varieties and pest and disease management.

He stress on the importance of line sowing and weed management for field pea and good soil tillage and ridging for potato cultivation so as to ensure quick emergence and deep penetration of the roots with good drainage. This was followed by live demonstration in the field. Later on joint field visit was conducted at potato field. Altogether 15 farmers attended the programme. The programme was chaired by Moainla, BTM, Dhansiripar block.

Peren Dist Level Coordination Chakhroma Students' Union 37th general conference held meeting on NTCP held

pereN, December 9 (mexN): District Level Coordination meeting on National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) Peren District was held on December 6 at Deputy Commissioner Conference Hall, New Headquarter Peren.

The programme was chaired by Deputy Commissioner, Zarenthung Ezung.

Chairing the programme, DC welcomed all the members present and expressed his sincere appreciation.

Addressing the gathering, Dr. Ngangshimeren, Chief Medical Officer welcome and expressed his appreciation to all the members for attending the meet-

ing and gave a brief note on the meeting agendas. He highlighted some of the activities of the NTCP in Peren district.

Dr. Sabino Kuotsu, District Nodal Officer, NTCP gave a report about the activities of the NTCP Peren undertaken till date.

A press release informed that the NTCP team Peren has so far carried out awareness and sensitization at 50 Government Schools and 11 private schools and also three churches. Apart from awareness and sensitization, training for medical officers and dental surgeons was also held at Chief Medical Conference Hall on November 30 and 61 ASHA’s has also being trained.

Dimapur, December 9 (mexN): The Chakhroma Students' Union held its 37th General Conference at Tenyiphe-I village on December 9 under the theme ‘prism of opportunities’, the conference was graced by Deputy Commissioner Dimapur Kesonyü Yhome as the chief guest.

Addressing a young audience, Yhome emphasised on the need to ‘think global and act local’, he expressed concern on the trend of young Naga generation embracing western lifestyle when the living standard remains primordial in an impoverish economy. He stated that educated youths needed to venture into skill oriented professions and not rely on government employment.

The programme was chaired by Pelevituo Kuotsu, while short speeches were given by the President of Chakhroma Public Organization and the Angami Students' Union, while a special

DC Dimapur Kesonyü Yhome with the officials of Chakhroma Students' Union after the 37th General Conference held at Tenyiphe-I village on December 9.

number was presented by Chümoukedima Town Students' Union.

A press release stated that in the second session, extempore and debate competition were held. The new team of

the Chakhroma Students' Union (201719) was inducted, led by President Rokovi Kruse, Vice-President Vitsüzo Meyase, General Secretary- Kevisese Krose, Assistant G.S-Megotso khwükha, Speaker

Pelevituo Kuotsu, Treasurer Razouviü Kimho, Secretary Games & sports -Zhasakholie Kehie, Secretary info & publicity- Mhalevilie Medoze, Secretary Education & statistical Kesavituo Chalieu.

Saturday 10•12•2016

NORTH-EAST 3

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Manipur government ‘Nagas will alone decide our fate’ creates 7 new districts Imphal | December 9

Ignoring intense protests by the Nagas in Manipur against the State Government's plan to create Sadar Hills and Jiribam districts, the Ibobi Singh government has ordered the creation of 7 new districts taking the total number of districts in the state now to 16.

Earlier, the number of districts was only nine—four in the valley namely, Imphal West, Imphal East, Thoubal and Bishnupur and five districts in the hills namely, Senapati, Ukhrul, Churachandpur, Chandel and Tamenglong. The new districts are: Jiribam, Kamjong, Kakching, Tengnoupal, Noney, Pherzawl and Kangpokpi. It can also be noted here that all the five hill districts have been bifurcated into two districts each.

The creation of the seven new districts was announced following a state cabinet meeting that went on till late night yesterday. The Chief Minister Okram Ibobi-headed Congress government has also issued an order appointing Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of Police for the newly created districts.

Chief Minister Ibobi asserted that the creation of new districts purely intended to enable administrative convenience.

Tamenglong district has been bifurcated into Noney and Tamenglong districts, Churachandpur into Pherzawl and Churachandpur, Chandel into Tengnoupal and Chandel districts, Ukhrul into Kamjong and Ukhrul districts, and Senapati into Kangpokpi and Senapati districts. Kangpokpi district is also

imphal, December 9 (pTi): Five people, including a child, were injured when an unidentified person hurled a hand grenade at the house of a policeman in Imphal West district this evening, police said.

The accused hurled the grenade at the residence of Akoijam Brojen, a head constable of Manipur police, at Singjamei Mayeng Leikai. A child and four women were injured in the explosion which occurred at around 6.25 PM, police said, adding they are all out of danger.

However, their identity was yet to be established.

Local people captured the accused and beat him up injuring him seriously.

He was also hospitalised.

His motive was not yet known, police said.

Police foils plot to kill SP, 2 GNLA cadres held Tura, December 9 (pTi): Police today claimed to have foiled a plot to kill the SP of South Garo Hills (SGH) by arresting two suspected cadres of the Garo National Liberation Army (GNLA) from Baghmara town.

According to an investigation by police, SP, Anand Mishra allegedly received threat messages on both his personal and office cell phone numbers since October 20.

The two cadres of the outfit who have been arrested were identified as Boresh Sangma (38), of Bul Awe in Baghmara, and Rankhu Momin (49) of Bolsal Ading, in Baghmara.

The duo had even demanded an amount of Rs 50 lakh from the SP, police said. "They were using only one number and this was being used exclusively for the purpose of sending threat messages.

It was a 'blind' case to crack but thankfully the IT team managed to tackle it," said Mishra. The mobile phone and SIM card used to threaten the SP have been recovered from the duo.

Meanwhile, SGH police claimed to have arrested a civilian cadre of another militant outfit, ASAK, in an early morning raid today.

Barash Sangma (27) of Namisikgre, SGH was allegedly involved in ferrying weapons, essentials and lately converting and depositing terror generated money of ASAK chief Reading T Sangma, through various bank accounts.

"He was wanted for some time and was avoiding arrest till Special Force 10 (SF-10) commandos of Baghmara nabbed him today morning," said Mishra.

B'desh PM likely to inaugurate memorial park in Tripura agarTala, December 9 (iaNS): Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina likely to inaugurate the Bharat-Bangladesh Maitri Udyan being built over 20 hectares in Chottakhola in southern Tripura to commemorate the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, a Tripura minister said on Friday.

"In unofficial talks in Dhaka, while talking to some Tripura's political leaders, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has agreed to inaugurate the Bharat-Bangladesh Maitri Udyan (friendship garden). Formal invitation letter would be send to her through the Indian government soon," a Tripura minister told IANS on condition of anonymity.

He said that the works for the first phase of the park would be completed in February next year.

Tripura PWD and Health Minister Badal Choudhury accompanied by senior officials visited the park on Thursday to review the progress of the works.

Tripura assembly member Sudhan Das,

among those who first conceived the idea to build the park, said that so far Rs 5 crore has been spent to develop the park, 130-km south of Agartala.

The foundation stone of the park was laid in November 2010 by the then Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dipu Moni.

"We had sent a Rs 12-crore project to the Union government for this park, but the Centre did not respond," Das told IANS. He said that a museum is also being set up at the park. It will showcase the arms and ammunition used in the Liberation War, rare photographs and war literature. The park will also feature 220 different species of plants.

Other highlights of the memorial include the surrounding hillocks, Trichna Wildlife Sanctuary and a 500-year-old mosque near Bangladesh's Comilla district.

The entire project is being executed by the Tripura government departments of forests, rural development, PWD, horticulture, science and technology, water resource and power.

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Sd/- Principal Christ King Hr. Sec. School, Kohima 09436010738

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY DELHI Sector A-7, Institutional Area, Narela, Delhi-110040, INDIA

Ph. D. Admissions (Spring Semester-AY: 2016-17)

Applications are invited for admission to Ph. D programme in various Engineering, Sciences and Management disciplines for the Spring Semester of Academic Session 2016-17. The application form complete in all respect must reach the office of the Assistant Registrar latest by 5:00 PM on 28 December 2016. The complete details along with the application form can be downloaded from the institute website: www.nitdelhi.ac.in Dean (R & C) I/c

PWD Minister Choudhury said: "We had discussed about building a memorial several years back with the then Defence Minister Pranab Mukherjee."

Justifying the decision to build the memorial in the state, Choudhury said: "Tripura had not only accommodated the displaced people but also provided all kinds of support and help to the freedom fighters. The border town of Belonia was attacked by the Pakistani forces for several days.

"Over 1,600,000 displaced people from the then East Pakistan had taken shelter in Tripura.

Tripura had many camps in four sectors from where the freedom fighters fought the Pakistani forces in the nine-month-long war in 1971," Choudhury added, who hails from Belonia sub-division under which Bharat-Bangladesh Maitri Udyan falls.

ber 10, 1992 between GoM and Naga Students’ Federation(NSF); on September 27, 1996 between the Government of Manipur and UNC and ANSAM; and on June 23, 1998 between the GoM and UNC & ANSAM. The Council flayed the Government of Manipur under the leadership of O. Ibobi Singh for not bothering to send representatives to New Delhi for the tripartite talk convened by the Ministry of Home Affairs with the Naga Organizations on November 15. “Had he been serious enough to send his representatives, the situation would not have come thus far. His outrageous behavior is responsible for the grave situation in Manipur,” the UNC maintained.

The Council also condemned what it termed as “immature conduct” of the Government of India (GoI) arguing that the GoI, instead of playing the role of a good mediator, has done “injustice” to the Nagas by acceding to the request of the Government of Manipur for sending more central forces to the State.

“We want to remind both Governments that the Nagas are inseparable with their lands and every Naga is obliged to protect and defend our ancestral land,

Agartala councillor held for molesting minor girl agarTala, December 9 (pTi): A councillor of Agartala Municipal Corporation and leader of the ruling RSP, Mrinmay Sen alias Khokan Vaishnav, was today arrested for allegedly molesting a minor girl in her school here. According to the FIR lodged by the girl's father, Sen, also the administrator of the school, called the girl studying in 1st standard to his room and molested her yesterday, SP (Police Control) Uttam Bhowmick said. After returning home, the girl told her parents about the ordeal following which her father lodged a complaint this morning, he said. The councillor, who was arrested from Indranagar area here, was booked under Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012, Bhowmick said. District and session Judge Ruhidas Paul granted Sen interim bail till December 23. Meanwhile, state BJP chief Biplab Deb demanded exemplary punishment for Sen.

FElICITATIon

The Sumi Totimi Hoho (STH) heartily congratulates Miss Vilokali Zhimomi on being crowned Miss Nagaland 2016 besides bagging two sub-titles – Miss Photogenic and Miss Perfect 10. She is also the reigning Miss Sumi and the STH prays that she continues to achieve greater heights bringing laurels to the Sumi community and the Naga people.

Kitoli Naje, President, Sumi Totimi Hoho

people, identity, history, tradition, culture, custom and time honored-institutions at all cost.

We are the owner of our land and we will never allow anyone to decide for the Nagas,” the UNC statement asserted before arguing that the question of carving out of Nagas' land to form/create revenue districts does not arise at all.

Further seeking to address organization(s) expressing grievances or concerns over the blockade initiated by UNC, the Council urged that they ask the Government of Manipur instead “to resolve the issue of Sadar Hills and Jiribam at the earliest.”

“Our protest and movement is directed only against the Government of Manipur and not against any community or group,” the UNC reminded concerned organizations/clubs.

It insisted that the “best wisdom” to resolve the present crisis in the State lies with the Government of Manipur and the Government of India, the UNC assured that it will call off the blockade immediately “when written assurance is received from the State Government and when our two leaders who were arrested without “any arrest warrant” is released unconditionally.”

Office of the

ANGAMI PUBLIC ORGANIZATION Kohima: Nagaland

Christmas Greetings

The Angami Public Organization wishes each and everyone a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year. May the spirit of love and peace grow furthermore in our society this festive season. It is APO's belief that we Nagas as a whole are progressing towards a better future of peace and prosperity.

APO also welcome and whishes all the visitors from outside and abroad to enjoy and partake in this festive season. May our Almighty God guide you in all your travels and may you have a memorable time with us.

Lastly, APO once again wishes each and everyone a Merry Christmas and a New Year filled with prosperity and success.

May we all be blessed this festive season and may 2017 be a year of happiness and success for all.

Sd/- NEISAKHOLIE ZIEPHRÜ (Secretary Info & Publicity)

Eastern Regional Office L & T Chambers, 3rd Floor, 16, Camac Street Kolkata- 700017

Empanelment of Resource Persons

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Details regarding names of district, selection criteria, application form are available on the website http://investors.sebi.gov.in and NISM website http://nism.ac.in Deputy General Manager OIAE-ERO

Davp: 21275/11/0017/1617

5 injured in Manipur grenade explosion

the other name of Sadar Hills district.

Meanwhile, taking part in a political conference at Tribal Research Institute (TRI), Chingmeirong here today, Manipur Chief Minister O Ibobi Singh stated that formation of new districts was not against the interest of any community. “It aims to promote the general welfare of the people. The government is not taking political advantage. The government is the ultimate owner of all land possessed by everyone that requires payment of taxes to the government,” Ibobi said.

He said Ukhrul district’s Kamjong, now a new district, Kasom Khullen and Phungyar subdivisions covering almost half of the total land area of this district are geographically isolated from their respective district headquarters causing administrative inertia.

Upgradation of Jiribam to the status of a district had been a long-time demand of people of Jiribam near Manipur-Assam border, he added. The Imphal East’s former subdivision is located about 200 km from its administrative headquarters Porompat.

The state has a geographical area of 22,327 sq km and 90 percent of the total geographical area of Manipur is covered by the hills and the remaining area is a small valley accounting for only one-tenth of the total area. Elated by the news, people in Jiribam celebrated in a big way.

The Manipur government had earlier prepared to declare Sadar Hills as a district that ultimately led to the ongoing economic blockade call given by the United Naga Council (UNC) to protest the move.

areas in Manipur State.

It stated that the decision to impose Indefinite Economic Blockade (including the banning of the construction of Trans Asian Railways from Jiribam to Tupul and other National Projects in all the Naga territories with effect from midnight of October 30) was taken only when the Government of Manipur did not pay heed to the 48 hours Total Shut down of Naga areas by the UNC against the lopsided decision of Manipur Government to create Sadar Hills and Jiribam into fullfledged revenue districts.

The UNC insisted that the wishes of the indigenous Naga people on the issue of Sadar Hills has been expressed in the 4 Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) signed between the Naga people and the Government of Manipur (GoM) wherein it was agreed upon that “not even an inch of Naga ancestral land and its original should be touched while creating any new district”. A written assurance was also given by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on November 24, 2011.

[The MoUs were signed on December 14, 1981, between the Government of Manipur (GoM) and All Naga Students’ Association, Manipur (ANSAM); on Novem-

OFFICE OF THE

KIPHIRE DISPLACED YIMCHUNGRU UNION Pungro Sub-Division Hq.

APPRECIATIon

The Kiphire Displaced Yimchungru Union (KDYU) would like to extend appreciation to Shri. T. Torechu, Chairman N.K.V.I.B. and M.L.A. Pungro-Kiphire for the support & initiative taken for the rehabilitation of the Kiphire displaced household to resettle in Pungro Town and thus making it happened on the 5th December 2016 thanksgiving programme. The union also extends appreciation to Pungro Village council for donating land to the displaced families.

The K.D.Y.U. also thanked Shri. Wennyei Konyak, A.D.C. Pungro Sub-Division and his Administrative Staff for their concern shown by executing the new plot of land to the displaced at the earliest. We the KDYU express our deepest happiness and gratitude for their energetic work.

S. Lunso, Executive Chairman

Davp: 15204/11/0150/1617

Newmai News Network

Dimapur, December 9 (mexN): The United Naga Council today censured the Manipur Government over the creation of seven additional districts in Manipur.

A statement from the Council likened the move to “adding salt to the wound” and termed it as “another step to further Ibobi’s divide and rule policy”.

Asserting that it will not allow any external force “to mettle” with Naga ancestral land, the UNC maintained, “Nagas will alone decide their fate and about their land.”

It alleged that the decision was “an intentional policy supported by the GoI” and warned that “Nagas will not remain silent spectator.”

In this regard, the UNC informed that a Naga Peoples’ Consultation Meeting has been called on December 12, 11:00 am at Tahamzam (Senapati) on the issue of creating new districts without consulting all sections of the people and all stakeholders, including the bodies representing the Nagas as assured.

The UNC in its press statement reminded the public on the stance taken collectively by the Council on the indefinite economic blockade in the Naga

4

SaturDaY 10•12•2016

business

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Govt rolls out sops for cashless India New Delhi, December 9 (busiNess staNDarD): Buy petrol or diesel with your debit or credit card or e-wallet from a petrol pump which has a licence from a public sector unit (PSU), and you will soon get a discount of Rs 7.5 for every transaction of Rs 1,000. You will also not need to pay the two per cent service tax and merchant discount rate for purchases up to Rs 2,000.

One month since Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the demonetisation of old series Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes, Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Thursday announced a number of sops to push for a cashless economy.

He said cashless transactions had increased since November 8. For instance, about 45 million people buy petrol or diesel per day, spending about Rs 1,800 crore, 20 per cent of which is through digital. In November, about 40 per cent of transactions at petrol pumps were digital.

The incentives offered on Thursday could shift at least 30 per cent more to digital. “This would reduce cash requirement of nearly Rs 2 lakh crore per year,” said Jaitley.

There’s more on offer. Though buying insurance from state-owned insurers and railway tickets, digitally, would get sops and discounts. Allaying concerns that these would be withdrawn once the situation normalised, Jaitley said there was no “end date” for these.

Public dealings with the government and PSUs would also be free of transaction fees and MDR charges, if done digitally.

Bankers, however, feared loss of revenue because of this.

“It will definitely lead to a dent in the income but we will wait for more clarity to see if the government will compensate us for this,” said Ashutosh Khajuria, chief financial officer, Federal Bank.

Other bankers said they hoped what they would lose in value might be gained in volume, and the move might be helpful in the long run. Currently, 1.98 per cent (in the case of credit card spend) and 0.50-1 per cent (in the case of debit card) of the total amount is charged as interchange fee by banks. This fee is paid by the merchant and is split between the bank that issued the card, lender whose point of sales (PoS) machine is being used and the payment system — RuPay, Visa or MasterCard.

“MDR has several component such as float income, interest income etc. So we need to look at the fine print to understand how this will play out,” said Mrutyunjay Mahapatra, deputy managing director, State Bank of India.

Jaitely said public sector banks have been advised that merchant should not be required to pay more than Rs 100 per month as rental for PoS terminals, ATMs, micro ATMs and mobile PoS. This is aimed at getting smaller merchants on to digital platforms.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also tweeted 65 million PoS machines have been issued by banks to merchants. “With lower rentals, merchants will install such machines and promote digital transactions,” he said.

Jaitley said as much as 10 per cent and 8 per cent discount will be offered in case of general and life insurance respectively for buying new policy or paying premium online via PSUs websites. Monthly and seasonal suburban railway tickets purchased through digital mode will get 0.5 per cent discount from January 1.

Nearly 8 million passengers use seasonal or monthly ticket on suburban railways, largely in cash, spending nearly Rs 2,000 crore per year. As more and more passengers shift to digital, the cash re-

quirement may get reduced by Rs 1,000 crore per year in the near future, the finance minister said. Other decisions would be made effective in two to four days and notified by departments concerned, Jaitley said.

Online booking of railway tickets will get Rs 10 lakh accident insurance. Those using digital mode to pay for railway catering, accommodation, retiring room will be entitled to discount of five per cent. Even though long queues continued in front of banks and ATMs, sources said printing of currency notes would not be outsourced.

Naidu panel meet RBI, bank officer to push demonetisation A high-powered panel to drive demonetisation, led by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, on Thursday met senior officers of the Reserve Bank of India and bank heads to explore all possibilities.

Naidu said low-hanging fruits such as Aadhaar-based payment systems through smartphones and Unified Payment Systems should be explored first. In places where these could not reach for low internet or mobile penetration, card-based payment systems, PoS machines would be tried. He said some amount of cash had to remain in the system, but digital economy is where the future was.

The panel would have another meeting on Friday, following which, an interim report would be submitted to the prime minister, followed by a final report. NITI Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant said most banks have agreed for interoperability of UPI, while the National Payments Corporation (NPCI) is trying to make USSD code simple.

He said the Aayog has started consultations with district collectors, panchayat

mumbai, December 9 (Pti): Aimed at matching Reliance Jio tariff rates, Idea Cellular on Thursday announced two schemes to provide free calls to its pre-paid customer bundles with limited mobile internet service.

“Priced around Rs.148 and Rs.348, these packs provide the customers with unlimited voice calls to anywhere in India, along with data benefits,” Idea said in a statement.

Upon recharging with Rs.148, Idea customers will be able to make free Local and STD Idea-to-Idea calls across India and get 50MB of data. Customers with 4G handsets will get 300 MB of data in addition to voice benefit, the statement said. The Rs.348 scheme will offer free Local and STD calls Baits to go plastic Finance Minister Arun Jaitley an- across all networks in India along with 50MB of data. In the nounced a number of discounts for cash- same pack, customers with 4G handsets will get 1 GB of data in addition to voice benefit, the statement said. The less transactions. validity of both packs is 28 days and the price of the packs will differ slightly from circle to circle, it added.

Discounts • 0.75%: Petrol and diesel • 10%: New general insurance* • 8%: New life insurance* • 0.5%: Monthly & seasonal suburban railway tickets • 5%: Railway catering, retiring rooms New Delhi, December 9 (iaNs): The Supreme • 10%: RFID, or highway toll Court on Friday asked the government to state the thresh• Financial benefits for banks to install old limit of cash that each account holder can withdraw from 2 PoS each in 100,000 villages of popula- banks across the country without being refused. The bench tion less than 10,000 of Chief Justice T.S. Thakur, Justice A.M. Khanwilkar and D.Y. • Merchants not to pay over Rs 1,000 as Chandrachud also asked the government to state if it could monthly rent for PoS, mobile PoS, ATMs, relax curbs on accepting deposits by the district cooperative micro ATMs banks after imposing certain conditions. On cash withdraw• Rupay Kisan Cards to 43.2 million als, the court asked the Centre to spell out the limit of cash Kisan Credit Card holders, to enable them an account holder can withdraw as it was told that though the government said each account holder can withdraw up to make digital transactions to Rs 24,000 per week, the banks were instead giving them only Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000. Senior counsel Kapil Sibal, apWaivers Dealings with government or PSUs pearing for a petitioner, told the court that contrary to the government’s claim, there was no cash in the banks. Former would be free of transaction charges Credit/debit card dealings up to Rs Finance Minister and senior counsel P. Chidambaram told the court that all the Reserve Bank of India printing presses 2,000 to attract no service tax can print only 300 crore currency notes per month. Replacing every demonetised note with a new note will take at least Benefits Rs 10 lakh accident insurance for those six months, Chidambaram told the court. who buy railway tickets online *PSU insurance firms (buying and premium) heads etc to push for digital payments. The secretary in the ministry of Information and Technology, Aruna S said that there is need to let mobile wallets talk amongst themselves. On cyber security measures and incidents of card theft etc, Naidu said that such incidents have been tackled with an iron hand and for stray incident, the entire concept cannot be rejected.

State limit of cash account holder can withdraw: SC to government

Plastic currency notes Maruti to hike prices by up to Rs 25,000 from January to be printed soon New Delhi, December 9 (iaNs): Soon, plastic currency notes will be printed in India.

The procurement process for the required material has already been initiated, Parliament was informed on Friday.

“It has been decided to print bank notes based on plastic/ polymer substrate. The process of procurement has been initiated,” Minister of State for Finance Arjun Ram Meghwal said in a written reply in the Lok Sabha.

Meghwal said that on December 11, 2015 it was informed by the Reserve Bank of India that they received some Rs 1,000 denomination without the security thread.

These notes were printed at the Currency Note Press at Nashik in Maharashtra on paper supplied by Security Paper Mill FiRe StatiOnS

KoHIMA soUtH: 0370-2222952/ 101 (O) 9402003086 (OC) KoHIMA nortH: 7085924114 (O) dIMAPUr: 03862-232201/ 101 (O) 9856156876 (OC) CHUMUKedIMA: 7085982102 (O) 8732810051 (OC) woKHA: 03860-242215/101 (O) 8974322879 (OC) MoKoKCHUnG: 0369-2226225/ 101 (O) 8415830232 (OC) PHeK: 8414853765 (O) 8413822476(OC) ZUnHeBoto: 03867-280304/ 101 (O) 9436422730 (OC) tUensAnG: 8414853766 (O) 9856163601 (OC) Mon: 03869-251222/ 101 (O) 9862130954 (OC) Kiphire: 8414853767 (O) 9436261577 (OC) Peren: 7085189932 (O) 9856311205 (OC) LonGLenG: 7085924113 (O) 9862414264 (OC)

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(SPM), Hoshangabad, the minister said.

An enquiry was initiated by the Security Printing and Minting Corp of India Ltd (SPMCIL) and the units involved, SPM and Currency Note Press.

“Major penalty chargesheet has been issued to personnel concerned. Disciplinary proceedings have been initiated,” he said.

“Action has been taken to strengthen quality procedure and online inspection system in manufacturing process. A new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has been prepared and implemented,” he added.

Special training has been given to concerned persons to avoid such mistakes in future and additional inspections have been introduced to ensure defect-free production, Meghwal said.

Guwahati, December 9 (mexN): Maruti Suzuki India Limited, country’s largest carmaker yesterday announced it will hike prices of all its vehicles across models by up to 25,000 from January 2017 to offset rising costs and weakening of rupee against dollar and Yen, joining other manufacturers in making such a move.

“The price increase has been necessitated on account of increase in costs due to weakening of rupee against dollar, increase in pricing of raw material, rise in administrative and other costs,” stated a press release.

Currently, MSIL sells a range of vehicles starting from the entry level hatchback Alto 800 to the

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Police station Fire Brigade

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S-Cross with prices ranging between 2.49 lakh and 13 lakh (all prices ex-showroom Delhi).

Maruti Suzuki’s portfolio currently comprises of 14 car models – Alto 800, K10, Wagon R/Stingray, Celerio, Swift, Dzire, Ertiga, Omni, Eeco, Gypsy, Ciaz and Brezza apart from Baleno and S-Cross through its NEXA channel.

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Other car makers viz Honda and Toyota have announced a similar hike in prices of their vehicles across models from January.

Industry experts believe automobile manufacturers have to keep making such price corrections to sustain in the market. Rising raw material costs and other expenses cannot be totally absorbed by the company and have to be eventually passed on to the customer.

However, coupled with the highest offers of the calendar year and the difference in new prices, experts say this is the right time of the calendar year to make a purchase since manufacturers pass on maximum benefits to the customers.

MOKOKCHUnG

Vodafone India introduces unlimited calling on its network

New Delhi, December 9 (iaNs): Jumping on to the bandwagon, Vodafone India on Friday announced introduction of unlimited free voice calling for prepaid customers with the launch of two new packs. The first pack, Rs 144-149, will offer unlimited local and STD calls to Vodafone connections across the country with 50MB data for 28 days. It also offers unlimited incoming free on national roaming and 300MB data for 4G handset users, the statement said. The other pack, Rs 344-349, will offer unlimited local and STD on all mobile and landline calls across the country with 50MB data for 28 days. It also offers unlimited incoming free on national roaming and 1GB data for 4G handset users, the statement added.

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CURRenCY nOteS

Us dollars sterling Pound Hong Kong dollar Australian dollar singapore dollar Canadian dollar Japanese Yen euro thai Baht Korean won UAe dirham (Aed) Chinese Yuan

BUY (rs) 66.66 84.67 8.32 49.56 46.75 49.98 58.13 70.87 1.81 0.055 17.56 9.37

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Idea launches unlimited voice calling for pre-paid customers

CROSSWORD # 3799

H

SUDOKU

Simple Rules - Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through 9.

Game Number # 3784

Answer Number # 3783

ACROSS 1.Hairdo 5. Cooks 10. Blips 14. Countertenor 15. Large body of water 16. A Freudian stage 17. Casket 18. Inimical 20. Any unspecified person 22. A breed of dog 23. Rechewed food 24. Squalid 25. Kill 32. Banquet 33. Christmas song 34. Not bottom 37. Deliver a tirade 38. Exploded stars 39. Fizzy drink 40. Mineral rock 41. Pertaining to the moon 42. Relating to audible sound 43. Captivity 45. Nonpoetic writing 49. French for “Summer” 50. Phonograph disks 53. Fighter 57. A formal charge of wrongdoing 59. Possess 60. Wail 61. TV, radio, etc.

62. Cards with 1 symbol 63. Agile 64. A stone fragment 65. Exam DOWN 1. ___ du jour = Meal of the Taxis 2. Hodgepodge 3. Bit of gossip 4. A prediction 5. Leaps 6. Skin disease 7. Hemp

8. Hearing organs 9. Trim 10. A velvety fabric 11. An independent film company 12. Went white 13. Cunningly 19. Artist’s workstand 21. Dethrone 25. Hairdo 26. Char 27. Rational 28. Graphic symbols 29. Pertaining to the oceans 30. A kind of macaw 31. Foot digit 34. Anagram of “Note” 35. Norse god 36. Agreement 38. Religious sister 39. Moderately 41. Lascivious looks 42. Bristle 44. Pertaining to the spring 45. Petitions 46. Summary 47. Come to pass 48. Thick 51. Dikes 52. Stair 53. Be agitated 54. Shoestring 55. Nights before 56. A musical pause 58. Actress Lupino Answer to Crossword 3798

Saturday 10•12•2016

NAGALAND

wise statistics of visitors NPF responds Law students submit representation to Indian President Day to the 17th Hornbill Festival to Congress Party unhappy at center’s move to declare December 25 as Good Governance Day DIMAPUR, DECEMBER 9 (MExN): In response to the NPCC’s statement accusing the NPF of not opposing the centre’s decision to declare December 25 as Good Governance Day, the NPF today reminded that it had deliberated the very agenda threadbare and also adopted a resolution at the party’s Central Executive Council (CEC) meeting held on November 29, 2016, registering its unhappiness and disapproving the centre’s move.

A press note from the NPF press and media bureau stated that the NPCC “appears to have been left with no other agenda of

value to present to the people of Nagaland, other than to beat around blindly, accusing the NPF-led DAN Government.” Most of the issues they (NPCC) have been raising in the local media are all being taken care of and pursued by the present government and hence, it is needless for the NPCC to worry, it stated.

Meanwhile, it also stated that “modestly rating the attempted mockery, vis-à-vis the statement of Z Lohe as published in the local media recently, on the ‘BJP - NPF relationship’, the NPF can only advice Z Lohe to mind for his party since he is already in the Nagaland Congress.”

KohIMA, DECEMBER 9 (MExN): The Nagaland Law Students' Federation (NLSF) held a meeting with the Governor of Nagaland, PB Acharya on December 9 at Raj Bhavan, Kohima. The Federation submitted a representation to the President of India and the Union HRD Minister through the Governor’s office.

The representation highlighted “burning issues” of the law students such as establishment of the Government Law College and setting up of Law Department in Nagaland University “which has been long denied despite repeated appeals to the State Government,” according to a press release from Imliben Lemtur, president, Roland Zeliang, publicity secretary, and Medochütuo Kiewhuo, general secretary of NLSF. It requested the President of India to direct the

Foreign visitors Day 1: 150 Day 2: 250 Day 3: 235 Day 4: 121 Day 5: 105 Day 6: 145 Day 7: 98 Day 8: 137 Day 9: 140

Officials of Nagaland Law Students' Federation with Governor of Nagaland on December 9.

authorities concerned of Nagaland University to establish law department and law institute by issuing necessary ordinance or amendments of the statute as the case may be for the interest of the student community in general and the law students in particular.

Meanwhile, at the meeting, NLSF officials aired their grievances to the Governor, who assured to take neces-

sary measures to achieve the desired result, the release said. Acharya further recommended the representation to be submitted to the concerned Union Minister to look into the “genuine” demand. He also stated that students' body should look after its own affairs seriously and challenged the Federation to take social issues so that changes would exist in the State.

The NLSF recognised the Governor as “a very learned man who is not only concerned for the social cause but also have a serious concern for the students of the State.”

The Federation also strongly supported the anticorruption drive by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and resolved to strictly adhere and champion the cause of corruption less State.

ACAUT supports Governor’s stance on corruption Tuensang BJP Mandals request DIMAPUR, DECEMBER 9 door appointment scam, non- od in the state’s history,” it main- clarification from party president (MExN): ACAUT Nagaland to- payment of teacher salaries tained. day applauded the Governor of Nagaland, PB Acharya for his stance on corruption.

“That the Governor has decided not to spare the rod is laudable, something no Governor has ever done,” ACAUT stated in reference to the Governor’s statement that the present Nagaland State government is corrupt.

A press release from ACAUT Media Cell pointed out the “Mid-Day Meal scam- under investigation by the Vigilance Commission, the Rs. 500 Crore fuel adulteration scam, the Rs. 1200 Crore wheat scam, back-

scam, Rs. 100 Cr pension scam, CAG report 2015-16 on Rs. 300 Cr plus misappropriation in F&CS department, MNREGA anomalies, anomalies in Roads & Bridges department, etc.”

In this light, it stated that instead of the bitter reaction by the NPF party to the statement of the Governor, the rebuke should instead be highly appreciated. “When the Governor, who is part and parcel of the Government comes out so openly against his own government, then indeed the 13 years of NPF government must surely qualify as the most corrupt peri-

DPDB meetings held Zbto DPDB encourages cultivation of Rabi crops ZUNhEBoTo, DECEMBER 9 (DIPR): The monthly Zunheboto District Planning and Development Board (DPDB) meeting was held at DC conference hall here on December 8. The board discussed renovation of DC's conference hall and maintenance of town roads in consultation with town GBs. The meeting decided to forward the matter to the Chairman DPDB for funds under common pool. Executive Engineer, I&FC, Huska Yeptho spoke on the need of encouraging cultivation of Rabi crops at Tizu valley to boost economic activities. The meeting decided to request Agri and allied departments to take the initiative.

Absence of Heads of Offices at the DPDB meeting was also discussed and the DC asked the members not to send their representatives in future to attend the meetings.

Up-gradation of Royal Foundation School Phek Town discussed PhEK, DECEMBER 9 (DIPR): The monthly meeting of DPDB, Phek was held at DPDB conference hall on December 9 with DPDB Vice Chairman and Deputy Commissioner of Phek, Morohu Chotso as the chairperson. The DC lauded the villagers of Losami and Phek Town Youth Organization for repairing the road from Losami village to Phek village and Phek village to Phek Town. The meeting discussed upgradation of Royal Foundation School Phek Town to higher secondary school and change of nomenclature from Government High School, Porba to Veyieta Memorial Government High School Porba. The matters were decided to be forwarded to the government for further action.

Kiphire DPDB on purchasing equipment for Rest House KIPhIRE, DECEMBER 9 (DIPR): The Kiphire DPDB in its monthly meeting on December 6 discussed the proposal for purchase of furniture, kitchen equipments and room amenities at G.A Rest House, Kiphire, which was also endorsed by Kipili Sangtam, Minister for Power and Chairman, DPDB Kiphire for allocating certain amount of fund under LADP 2016-17. However, since the fund under LADP 2016-17 is already formulated, the meeting decided to write back to the Minister for further action from his part. The board also discussed registration of Gorkha Union Kiphire and decided to recommend it to the Government.

DIMAPUR, DECEMBER 9 (MExN): Organisations as well as individuals have condoled the demise of Rhipi Nukhu, father of Parliamentary Secretary for Higher & Technical Education, Deo Nukhu. He died at Naga Hospital Authority Kohima on December 7 at the age of 94 years.

Governor: Governor of Nagaland, PB Acharya recounted that Late Rhipi served the society in different capacities as a teacher and also as a Catechist in his native village Zhavame in Phek district. “The people will be remembering the contributions made by Late Rhipi Nukhu forever,” he said. Acharya and his wife

ACAUT also appealed to the Governor that the NIA probe into the 24% salary deduction and 5% departmental deduction as levied by the “Naga Factional Groups (NFGs)” should be widened to encompass all the departments- presently 36 departments are under scanner- and all the government servants found conniving should not be spared irrespective of their status. “Since the Modi government is very serious about tackling corruption, New Delhi should intensely focus its attention upon this state,” it added.

TUENsANg, DECEMBER 9 (MExN): The six BJP Mandals of Tuensang district – 51 A/C Noksen, 52 A/C Longkhim-Chare, 53 A/C Tuensang Sadar-1, 54 A/C Tuensang Sadar-II, 57 A/C Thononyu and 58 A/C Shamator-Chessore – have questioned what it termed as “undemocratic action” in dropping three senior leaders of the party recently.

“We are concerned about the recent development where our senior party leaders were dropped without any specific reason by saying that is central directive,” stated a press release from the six Mandal presidents.

They requested the State BJP

president to clarify on what ground the three senior party leaders were dropped. “It is felt that it is not a healthy sign for party growth and if immediate remedy measure is not taken it will immensely damage the party,” the release added.

The press release was appended

by Chaba Chang, Mandal President, 51 A/C Noksen; Hongchosing Sangtam, President, 52 A/C LongkhimChare; Sangba Kejung, Mandal President, 53 A/C Tuensang Sadar-1; N.T. Mongo, Mandal President, Tuensang Sadar-II; Pesing, Mandal President, 57 A/C Thononyu; Thrimo Yimchunger, Mandal President, 58 Shamator-Chessore.

Nagaland observes India Remembers Day

KohIMA, DECEMBER 9 (MExN): Rajya Sainik Board, PathFinders and YouthNet in collaboration with Rajya Sainik Board Nagaland and supported

by Common Wealth War Graves Commission observed India Remembers Day project by organising a photo exhibition followed by a short programme at the Kohima War Cemetery for the first time in Nagaland.

Community groups associated with the project as well as foreign and domestic tourists who are attending the Hornbill Festival visited the War Cemetery.

The welcome address was given by Lezo Putsure, Director of YouthNet, fol-

lowed by concept of the event and its importance presented by Vitono Haralu, Director of PathFinders and state coordinator.

Brigadier KK Roy Choudhury SM, VSM (Retd) Secretary Rajya Sainik Board and Director Sainik Welfare delivered a Speech. He said Armed Forces have been playing an important role for the society since time immemorial which should be acknowledged every year. He mentioned that the youth should continue to learn and grow with good skills to build up the society.

The programme was attended by the ex-servicemen veterans of dif-

ferent military forces of the country. As a symbol of acknowledgement, Chrysanthemum flower was given to each ex-serviceman as a symbol of gratitude for their sacrifices. Brigadier Choudhury paid respect to War Veterans who gave their lives in the battle of Kohima.

India Remembers is an innovative community project which commemorates over 13,000 Indian servicemen who served and died in the World War II and over 22,000 personnel of the Indian Armed Forces who gave up their lives in the service in the period following independence.

In addition, the proj-

ect seeks to engage with communities across India to create awareness of the individual sacrifice of personnel of the Indian Armed Forces over the years. The project aims to-Remember the fallen; Honour the living; and Foster a culture of remembrance by engaging communities, project partners and stake holders across the country in commemorative activities.

A press release informed that this year, the project is engaging with over 15 diverse community groups from Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Karnataka, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Sikkim, Manipur, and Nagaland.

MGMHSS celebrates pre-Christmas DPRO office Dimapur DIMAPUR, DECEM- programme started with 9 (MExN): MGM invocation prayer by Ani celebrates pre-Christmas BER Hr Sec School observed Paira followed by number

DIMAPUR, DECEMBER 9 (DIPR): The staff of District Public Relations Officer’s office, Dimapur celebrated pre-Christmas on December 8 in the official chamber of DPRO Dimapur.

DPRO Dimapur, Lolano Patton, while exhorting the gathering, said that the most valuable Christmas gift given by the Almighty to mankind was his one and only son Jesus Christ. God has portrayed his unconditional love to each one by gifting his son to us and therefore we must value and acknowledge the love of God by living a life which is acceptable to him, she

maintained.

Loretha, who also shared on the occasion, said that we have various compartments in our heart which we keep for family, friends, neighbours, siblings etc and questioned whether we have kept a room for Jesus in our hearts. She exhorted them to celebrate 2016 Christmas with a difference by giving room in their heart to the most important person who is Jesus. She also called upon the gathering to celebrate Christmas with renewed and revived heart so that the blessings of Christmas may be upon them.

its pre-Christmas with variety of programmes on December 8 at the school premises. A special programme was organized in the school campus where students of Class 10, 11 and 12 participated. The

of programmes including a special choir performance from each class. Christmas message was delivered by Supongsenla Jamir and the programme ended with benediction prayer by Principal, Fr. P.S. Varghese.

CYF executive council meeting held

PhEK, DECEMBER 9 (MExN): The Chakhesang Youth Front (CYF) held its executive council meeting at Phek Town on November 26 last.

Vekhozo Khamo and Thepuphi Kapu were the speakers of the meeting.

They dwelt on misuse of local names, illegal immigrants and ILP issue.

Meanwhile, the CYF acknowledged all the federating units for attending the meeting and also reaffirming the CYF guidelines.

Rhipi Nukhu’s demise mourned further conveyed condolences to Deo Nukhu and other members of the family and prayed to the Almighty to grant them strength and solace.

Chotisuh Sazo: Chotisuh Sazo, Speaker, Nagaland Legislative Assembly, in a condolence message said that Late Rhipi was one of the first Christian converts in Zhavame Village. His death has caused a great loss not only to Zhavame village, but the Chakhesang people in general, he added. “May Almighty God grant solace, peace and comfort to his children and grand children at this grief hours.”

Azo: MLA Kuzholuzo (Azo)

Nienu in a message also mourned the demise and prayed to Almighty to grant eternal peace to the departed soul.

NPF Central HQ: The members of Naga Peoples’ Front, Central HQ Kohima have also expressed sadness over the demise of Rhipi. President of NPF, Dr. Shürhozelie Liezetsu, all ranks and files of the NPF Central HQ conveyed heartfelt condolences to Nukhu and the bereaved family and prayed that God give them strength and solace.

NPCC Vice President: V Lasuh, NPCC vice president said that Rhipi Nukhu was not only a good father and an honest man

but also a “visionary builder of leader.” He admitted that his passing is an irreparable loss not only for the family but also for the village and for the 17th Chizami Assembly Constituency. Regretting his inability to attend the funeral service as he was out of the state, Lasuh conveyed condolences to the bereaved family on behalf of his family and the 17th Chizami ACCC. RPO: Razeba Public Organisation (RPO) also expressed pain and sadness at the demise of Rhipi Nukhu. A condolence message from RPO general secretary, Sapunyi Zholia described the deceased as a man of God and a

successful father to his children, who achieved great in life and in the Naga society. In his death, RPO expressed, the community and the society have lost a “great man of God.” It further conveyed condolences to the bereaved family.

NPF Phek: The NPF Phek division also expressed sadness at the demise of Rhipi Nukhu and offered sincere sympathies and condolences to the bereaved family. “The NPF Phek Division will ever remember the untiring legacy of beloved father late Rhipi Nukhu who left wonderful family behind him and delivered good leader to the society,” it added.

Domestic visitors Day 1: 2000 Day 2: 1000 Day 3: 2175 Day 4: 2221 Day 5: 2140 Day 6: 825 Day 7: 872 Day 8: 1005 Day 9: 705

Local visitors from Nagaland Day 1: 10,000 Day 2: 7521 Day 3: 8255 Day 4: 30,000 Day 5: 8210 Day 6: 5000 Day 7: 5420 Day 8: 5840 Day 9: 5750

MEx FILE DDTDWTU condemns attack on driver, handyman DIMAPUR, DECEMBER 9 (MExN): The Dimapur District Truck Drivers’ Welfare Trade Union (DDTDWTU) has condemned the physical manhandling of one driver and handyman, namely Ayush Singh and Md. Sahidul Alam, allegedly by members of the Sand Mahaldar and Suppliers Association on December 4 between Longlit and Notun Basti under Bokalia Police Station, Assam. A press release from DDTDWTU president, H. Kaiho Zhimo stated that the victims who were ferrying sand laden truck bearing vehicle registration number NLO-7A-6917 were “waylaid for illegal taxation/extortion and on refusal to oblige were beaten using iron rod causing serious fracture on the head and as such was hospitalized.” The DDTDWTU therefore appealed to the law enforcing agencies to promptly act on the FIR lodged at Bokalia PS and book the culprit(s) under relevant section of the law.

Dimapur Night Carnival organizing committee informs DIMAPUR, DECEMBER 9 (MExN): The organizing committee of the Dimapur Night Carnival 2016 has informed all the selected individuals/firms/business establishments to collect the stall permit for the carnival latest

by December 10 from the Dimapur Municipal Council (DMC) office between 9:00 am and 3:00 pm. A press release from the organizing committee cautioned that the committee will not entertain anyone after December 10.

All the stall participants have also been requested to construct the stall in a neat and well organized manner.

NPF Minority Wing Dimapur meets Nicky Kire DIMAPUR, DECEMBER 9 (MExN): The Dimapur division of NPF Minority Wing led by Lepshi Ao, Vice President (Central) & I/C Minority Wing, Nagaland and Asst. In-charge Khai Nikha held a meeting with Ministerial In-charge of Minority Wing, Nagaland & Tseminyu division, Dr. Nicky Kire, Minister for Forest, Environment & Climate Change at Tourist Lodge, Dimapur. The meeting, chaired by Suresh Paira, President, NPF Minority Wing Dimapur division, discussed the status of the minorities for upcoming municipal and town council election, said a press release from Lepshi Ao. The report of 2015-16 was also submitted by Sanjay Dey, Vice President, NPF Minority Dimapur division. In his speech, Lepshi Ao lauded the participation of the minorities in the NPF party. Meanwhile, Dr Nicky shared his views and suggestions and encouraged the party workers to work hard to strengthen the NPF party.

Meetings & AppointMents SCD general meeting The annual general meeting of the Sumi Council Dimapur will be held on December 10, 2:00 pm at the council’s office in Supply Colony, near West Police Station.

All the advisors, office bearers and executive members have been requested to attend the same positively as some important agendum will be discussed in connection with future plan of action.

Legislators’ fellowship pre-Christmas Nagaland Legislator's Christian Fellowship’s preChristmas programme will be held at the State Banquet Hall on December 12, 3:30 pm. Therefore, all the legislators, bureaucrats, AHoDs, HoDs NGOs, church leaders and party leaders have been invited for the programme.

NCSU meeting, general session The Nagaland Contractors’ & Suppliers’ Union (NCSU) Head Office, Kohima has convened a meeting on December 14, 12:00 noon at its conference hall to discuss the working modalities of 4- lane project of DimapurKohima road. Therefore, all the shareholders have been requested to attend without fail. Meanwhile, on December 15, the 41st General Session of NCSU will be held at its conference hall at 11:30 am. All the registered members of the union have been requested to attend the programme. The district unit office bearers and the Head Office Advisors, Executive and Action Committee members are to attend the same without fail, stated a press release from NCSU Vice President, K.L. Setuo Rutsa and Secretary, Imsünok Jamir. In the evening the same day, there will be an advance Christmas cum Best Traffic Award programme at 4:00 pm at Hotel Japfü, Kohima.

St. Joseph Catholic Community, Viswema invites The members of St. Joseph Catholic Community, Viswema have invited all the well wishers to the dedication of the newly built church-cum-Golden Jubilee of the Catholic Faith on December 15 at 10:00 am. Most Rev. James Thoppil, Bishop of Kohima, will officiate the Eucharist, Rev. Fr. Arul Soosaimanickam, S.J. Regional Superior, North East Jesuits, will inaugurate the Church, and Very Rev. Fr. Neisalhou Carolus, Vicar General, Kohima Diocese, will unveil the jubilee monolith. This was informed in a press release issued by Zhoto Stephen, Convenor, Information & Publicity Secretary, on behalf of Catholic Community, Viswema village.

6

saturDaY 10•12•2016

PeoPle, life, etc...

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

This holidays, discover India Unknown Take a vow to discover a new part of your country this New Year.

Here are some placesyou can begin with:

ming and fishing - all possible thanks to the Panchet dam.

Stay option: West Bengal Forest Tourism-run Nature Resort in Garpanchkot is perhaps the best place to stay in this small town. Tel: 033 22258549 Getting there: The nearest airport is in Kolkata, about 252 km away. You can also take the train to Asansol, which is only about an hour away.

Kalyani Prasher Reader's Digest

Village life at Daporijo, Arunachal Pradesh

P

erhaps no place is as unexplored as India's northeast, and that's a gross injustice to this region's natural beauty and its many other attractions. Of the region, Arunachal remains the final frontier, the land where the sun first says hello to India, the land which is nothing but a clutch of cliched images in most people's minds.

Remove your preconceived notions at the scenic and pretty town of Daporijo, by the mighty river Subansiri, as you spend a few idyllic days observing a way of life different from yours, crossing over bamboo bridges into a land frozen in time.

You can spend your entire holiday witnessing tribal culture, or you can up the tempo by trying your hand at white-water rafting at the Subansiri. For first-timers this may be a bit challenging, but there is always the quieter water sport of angling.

There are a couple of forest reserves nearby for nature walks and birding. You can combine your holiday with the more popular town of Ziro, 160 km away, which is the spot for a popular annual music festival.

Stay option: This is a bit tricky as there aren't many good options. There are homestays across the state, but Arunachal Tourism gives the thumbs up to Mell Botom Tourist Lodge in Daporijo. Tel: +91 9402872481 Getting there: It's 327 km from the capital Itanagar, but you are better off stopping at Ziro before reaching Daporijo.

Don't miss the stunning hammam, said to be built especially for Mumtaz Mahal, an exquisite structure inside the Shahi Qila. It is believed that the begum died here while giving birth to her 14th child. Apart from the Mughal heritage, there are soothing views of River Tapti all around. A real find, this one.

Stay option: The MP Tourism-run Tapti Retreat is the best located, comfortable hotel, close to all the important sightseeing options.

Tel: +91 755242244; booking.mptourism.com/ mphome/index.html Getting there: Indore is the closest airport, about 190 km from Burhanpur. Burhanpur railway station is conWildlife at Bera, Rajasthan There is more to Rajasthan than just the popular nected via Mumbai and Pune. cities you hear about, blue, golden, pink or white, and, Walking at Suro, Himachal Pradesh in fact, there's something far more exciting than all of Everyone goes to Shimla but next time you think of them put together waiting to be explored. going there on a holiday, consider adding two days to a Between Udaipur and Jodhpur is Bera, an almost place close by. unknown region even for the locals. However, there is Suro is a village nearby, next to the better-known one thing that is fast catching the attention of those who Shoghi, about an hour short of Shimla. What this means keep their ears open for such things: leopards. The most is that you get to the place quicker from the railway staelusive cat of the jungle is here in abundance. There tion, but also that Shimla is close enough to visit. But are so many leopards in the rocky hills of the Aravalli that's not all that it has going for it. range, where the village is situated, that it is impossible As the road goes off from the highway and towards to return without spotting them. And that's not the only Suro, the scenery changes. You leave behind the condeadly beast to catch sight of. Jawai Dam, the biggest in crete and smoke, and enter an almost eerily quiet and western Rajasthan, has a large presence of crocodiles surprisingly green road, leading four kilometres or so (as well as migratory birds).

A paradise for wildlife and animal lovers, the unex- down to the village. This road has hardly any traffic and plored expanse of Bera, the stark landscape made pret- the views are stunning.

It keeps getting better. As you go along, the road has tier by River Jawai, is well and truly a hidden gem - a rare many dirt and gravel tracks going off it that are ideal for one among the many jewels of Rajasthan. walking-which you can explore over two or three days.

Stay option: Leopard's Lair (leopard-lairresort.com) is a good place to stay at Bera. The hotel will organize sa- You can walk down to the village or up towards the main road, take in the fresh air and the pretty chir pines. faris for you. Tel: +91 8239365771 Getting there: Bera is about four hours from Jodhpur Stay option: The fairly new Suro Treehouse Resort is the and three hours from Udaipur. You can also combine a only option unless you want to stay close by in Shoghi.

Tel: + 91 9816603700; suroresort.com holiday here with either of the two cities.

Getting there: Take a train to Kalka station and drive up History at Burhanpur, Madhya Pradesh two hours, or take your own car up from Delhi or Punjab.

Once a capital of the Mughals, ruled by Shah Jahan, the present-day city of Burhanpur was founded in the early Birding at Velavadar, Gujarat You'll be forgiven for not knowing that there is such 1400s along the banks of the River Tapti. In fact, it is believed that a painting in the Shahi Qila here inspired the a thing as Blackbuck National Park in Gujarat. Famous design for the Taj Mahal. Whether that is true or not is up for Gir and the Asiatic lion, blackbucks are creatures for debate, but the grand mosques and exquisite palaces more closely associated with the neighbouring state of and tombs are a definite mark of the illustrious ruler. With Rajasthan. But in the less-known village of Velavadar, most of them still standing, Burhanpur is an absolute trea- in Bhavnagar district, blackbucks roam free in the tall grasslands of the sanctuary. sure trove of Mughal architectural heritage.

Now, not everyone may be excited to spot just blackLocated at the southern tip of Madhya Pradesh, this is where borders become irrelevant as MP merges with bucks, we admit, so here's the real secret. More like a Maharashtra with their people, culture, food, topogra- bush in the outback rather than a forested national phy - Burhanpur is often referred to as the gateway to park, it affords amazing bird-watching opportunities, the Deccan, the final post of northern India. You can with over 140 recorded species so far. The grasslands visit the Asirgarh Fort here, which was once considered and marshes invite pretty birds like the painted francolin, sarus crane and flamingos, along with a whole host the actual gateway to southern India.

Why Do We Use Emojis Anyway?

Books can change the world.

This is the premise with which Walking BookFairs started its journey

S

Sometimes, emojis are worth 1,000 words.

Claire Nowak

S

The Atlantic

ince they started taking off in the 2010s, emojis have pretty much evolved into characters for a new millennial language (who knew you could convey so much through tiny pictures of food?) But the predecessors of the “picture characters” we know and use excessively today are older than you’d expect.

Before emojis, there were emoticons, facial expressions made with punctuation marks. The first emoticons appeared in an issue of Puck magazine, all the way back in 1881. The magazine published four “faces”—conveying joy, melancholy, indifference, and astonishment— and called them “typographical art.”

They were first used as a way of communicating emotions online in 1982. When it became difficult for people to tell the difference between jokes and serious posts on a Carnegie Mellon University digital message board, faculty member Scott Fahlman came up with a solution: Add the symbol :-) to denote humorous posts, and add the symbol :-( to serious ones. In his announcement about this proposal, he even specified readers to “read it sideways.”

So what about emojis, the little pictures that make texting so fun? Those were created in 1998 by Shigetaka Kurita, an engineer at the Japanese phone company, NTT Docomo. He was working on a way for customers to communicate through icons. The result was a set of 176 icons he called emoji. The name combines two Japanese words: “e” (picture) and “moji” (character). Kurita says that he drew inspiration for his emojis from manga, Chinese characters, and international signs for bathrooms.

Now, more than 1,800 emojis exist. The best part? We don’t need to tilt our heads sideways to understand them.

of egrets and herons. Oh, and watch out for the rare and endangered Stolickza's bushchat.

Velavadar is located along the alluvial plains of Bhal, where nearly 40 species of grass have been identified. This is a mesmerizing landscape - stark, wide and open, often so surreal that you'll have a hard time believing you are still in India.

Stay option: The beautiful Blackbuck Lodge (theblackbucklodge.com) is the only option available near the park, and the safari and jungle experience are highly regarded. You can do bird walks with resident naturalists.

Tel: + 91 9978979728 Getting there: The nearest airport is Ahmedabad, 150 km away. If you are coming from Mumbai, you can fly directly to Bhavnagar, only 65 km away from the park.

Heritage at Sirpur, Chhattisgarh Dating between the fifth and the eighth centuries, this historical town is steeped in heritage. Chhattisgarh has always had a strong Buddhist influence, but recent excavations have added to Sirpur's significance and importance as a centre for Buddhism in central India. In fact, Hiuen Tsang himself visited Sirpur in the seventh century. It is believed that the ruins here are older than Nalanda, and the Buddhist viharas are a sight to behold even today. Another great attraction is the Laxman Temple (dedicated to Lord Vishnu), considered to be the finest and among the oldest brick temples in the country.

This is also the site of the annual Sirpur Mahotsav, a festival of music and dance usually held in January.

To add a twist to your holiday, the Barnawapara Wildlife Sanctuary and the river Mahanadi are nearbyboth make for great day trips from Sirpur. More than anything, this town and its ruins will fascinate those interested in old temple architecture and India's great religious heritage. The fact that it is so near the well-connected Raipur airport is just plain lucky!

Stay option: There aren't many options at Sirpur, though the charmingly named Hiuen Tsiang Tourist Resort provides basic and clean accommodation. Tel: 1800 102 6415; cgtourism.choice.gov.in Getting there: About an 80-km drive from Raipur airport.

Cruising at Dindi, Andhra Pradesh It's so tiny that it was not even on the tourism map, until a couple of hotels opened here and pushed a small segment of people to discover it. Thankfully that has still not affected the tranquillity of this scenic village by the banks of the river Godavari. The setting is perfect if you want to unwind: swaying palms, gentle breeze cooled by the waters, calm backwaters, canals and lagoons.

When you are not gazing at the waters, and enjoying a cool drink and a spicy snack, you can walk among the coconut groves or by the river. Adding to the peace are slow cruises on the backwaters on simple houseboats.

At night, the sky itself becomes your source of delight, as a million stars become visible, bigger and brighter than you can ever hope to see in the city.

This place is a mix of Goa and Kerala from a time gone by, without the people, the noise, the parties or the madding crowds. Unbelievable, but true!

Stay option: Though there are a few low-budget options around Dindi, including an APTDC hotel 80 km away, the only good option on the spot is Dindi-By The Godavari, a Sterling Holidays resort. Tel: +91 8862226662; dindibythegodavariresort.com Getting there: Palakollu is the nearest railway station about 15 km from the village. The closest airports are Rajahmundry, about 80 km away, and Vijaywada, about 180 km from Dindi.

Spirituality at Nalgonda, Telangana Nalgonda is a pilgrimage centre with several landmarks of religious importance, such as the Lateef Saheb Dargah, the 2,000-year-old Jain temple Kolanupaka and, its central attraction, the Yadadri Temple, shrine to Sri Laksmi Narsimha Swamy, situated atop the Yadadri hill.

It's a beautiful example of temple architecture, with the sanctum located inside a cave, people with a spiritual bent of mind will enjoy exploring the peaceful premises, lending a meditative pause to the hustle of daily life.

That's not all. An erstwhile stronghold of the Rajputs, Nalgonda was taken over by the Bahmani kings in the medieval times, and that's just a snapshot of Nalgonda's fascinating history. Offering a captivating glimpse into the past and a calming balm of spirituality, Nalgonda is an ideal mix for those looking for a quiet break but still want to do something while on holiday. If you need more, there's boating at Nagarjuna Sagar Dam and you can explore an old fort nearby.

Stay option: Vijay Vihar Hotel is a basic and clean option, located by the dam. Tel: 1800 42546464; telanganatourism.gov.in/partials/stay/nalgonda/haritha-vijay- Scenic beauty at Aritar, Sikkim vihar-hotel-nagarjuna-sagar.html Located in east Sikkim, Aritar comes with all of SikGetting there: About two and half hours by road from kim's attractions - forest lakes, high mountains, views of Hyderabad the Khangchendzonga - minus the crowds. It's so pretty that it's unreal that people haven't discovered it yet.

Peace at Garpanchkot, West Bengal The Lampokhari Lake located here is among the oldA series of bloody invasions, a fort in ruin, a silent hillquite amazingly, the dark history of Garpanchkot comes est in the state, and has recently added boating to its kitty. together to offer a peaceful holiday option to the modern- There's even a small annual festival in March that celebrates day traveller. You get a panoramic view of the serene vistas boating, apart from horse riding and archery. Of course, and the dam on river Damodar from the top of the Pan- trekking in the eastern Himalayas is always an option.

As all over the state, there are places of significance chet Hill. The ruins are a reminder of a time gone by when attached to Buddhism in Aritar as well, with the Aritar the Bargi attacks were almost an annual event; and the unfrequented land and green topography means a resplen- Gumpa being among the oldest temples in the Karma dent birdlife. Located in Purulia, this is definitely among Kagyu lineage.

Stay option: The quaint Lampokhari Village Resort (arthe least known areas in West Bengal.

Apart from reliving the history associated with the place itar.in/Lampokhari-Village-Resort.php) is the best opby exploring the ruins of the centuries-old garh, you can also tion here. Tel: + 91 9903295920 spend time doing a host of calming outdoor activities. There Getting there: It's about four hours from both Bagdogra airare as nature walks and cycling, as well as birding, swim- port and the New Jalpaiguri railway station in West Bengal.

Books on Wheels

Sanghamitra Chakraborty

atabdi Mishra and Akshaya Rautaray became friends over books and ideas. And, like every true bibliophile, they wanted to share their love of books with the world. So they converted a mini-van into a travelling bookshop and started a journey that is now Walking BookFairs.

Though they have a store back home in Bhubaneswar, from where they sell books, Mishra, 34, and Rautaray, 36, are happiest taking their books to corners of India where few have. Starting 15 Dec-ember last year, they travelled 10,000 kilometres, across 20 states, over 90 days with a book truck to spread the message of reading.

The seeds of the idea were sown when Mishra and Rautaray started talking about rights and responsibilities, and how they could contribute towards creating "a world without boundaries". Books and reading, they were convinced, would play a crucial role. However, they realized the challenge lay in providing access to those who have none. "We can't just talk, we must do something, we thought. And that is how we started Walking BookFairs in 2014," says Mishra. Rautaray quit his job at a bookstore, while Mishra was taking a break after her baby at the time.

Having perceived the difficulty of the common man stepping into a bookshop, they decided they would break those barriers by "taking books to them". With no resources to start a bookshop, they filled their backpacks with books and reached Koraput, in rural Odisha, one day. Wandering through the village roads, they displayed (Oriya and English) books at bus stops, footpaths and other public spaces.

They stopped and handed out books wherever they spotted a crowd. Ordinary village folk eventually started picking them up, casting aside their inhibitions. Every time curious children gathered around them, they sat down and read to them.

"We had the best time reading stories to a

bunch of children," says Mishra.

It was this power of storytelling that fuelled the Walking BookFairs dream.

The partners decided to get an old Maruti Omni, which was being used as an ambulance, and had it hand-painted. They packed books in boxes and set out once again for the dusty villages and small towns in Odisha. Mainly carrying children's books and translated world literature, priced between Rs 35 and Rs 100, they displayed them at public places and outside schools, colleges and offices. "We also organized activities with musicians and artists. Once, we even had the author Ruskin Bond over, which turned out to be great fun," says Mishra.

In Bhubaneswar, they found a small restaurant with a garden and identified a corner they could convert into a store for a small rent. "We put in a bookshelf, got some chairs, candles, tea cups and got going," says Rautaray. It was a space where people could drop by, browse, have tea and enjoy a conversation.

Books were offered at a discount of 20 per cent through the year - Mishra and Rautaray believe affordable books can improve access. Anyone who knew them was startled by their passion. Given that physical bookshops were struggling to survive and printed books were faced with chal-

lenges, many advised caution.

However, maintaining the shop proved to be a challenge, as it was located in an open space, with just one bookshelf and no protection from wind and rain. Undeterred, they moved to a tiny shack, in the same area, with a lush garden full of squirrels and frogs. Here they organized poetry sessions, conversations with authors and other activities to engage readers.

The Walking BookFairs cross-country tour, between December 2015 and March 2016, was to spread the message: "Read More India". Partnering with three publishing houses, the friends got a newly converted pickup (book truck), with shelves stacked with 4,000 books, and set out on their journey. When I meet Mishra and Rautaray in Delhi, they have been on the road for 58 days. "It's a difficult and expensive tour, but it's very important for us," says Mishra, the driver on the journey.

Travelling around India brought several insights: Few Indians actually read books; also there are very few bookshops and libraries in most parts of the country. Many schools and colleges have no libraries and do not introduce students to storybooks at all. Young students admit to having never read books beyond their curricula.

Says a worried Mishra: "It is very strange that they will vote and become citizens. Everything is dependent on what they think

and their perception of the world. But if we do not have an understanding of the times we live in, what kind of a world are we going to create? This is why everyone must read more books."

India's contrasts - especially the extremes of poverty and wealth - and diversity astonished them. "Our journey was not just about books. We experienced people, their lifestyle, culture, food, thinking. Travelling around remote corners of India was overwhelming ... We talk about development, but where is the clean water? Our farmers are poor, and getting poorer by the day. It's all so unequal, so unfair, I can't believe we live in the same country," says Mishra. Rautaray looks disturbed as he describes how in every city they found residential colonies with modern amenities: gyms, swimming pools but "strangely no bookshops or libraries".

However, they discovered there are others who believe that books can change the world and do their bit. For instance, in Pune, they met a group that runs a library on wheels-they deliver storybooks to readers and collect them later. In Madurai, they met a man who sells Tamil books out of a van. And in Hyderabad, they met Sadiq who sells poetry from a pushcart that has become very popular.

With so much of the country to cover, they were back on the road again: This September they travelled on a two-wheeler from Odisha to Kerala with about 200 books. Stopping at highway dhabas, they met the owners and truck drivers and spoke to the locals working at tea stalls, garages and small eateries, in an attempt to understand their priorities and how ideas and imagination figured in their harsh lives. They shared books and stories wherever they could.

Once back in Bhubaneswar, they had to close down their book shack briefly due to a property dispute. But fortunately, the Walking BookFairs store has found a new space where books will be shared with a smile, there will be hot tea and the chatter of friends and book-lovers.

And this journey, on the road less travelled, will go on.

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.

SaturDaY 10•12•2016

Morung Youth Express

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

7

How to overcome fear of public speaking

I

Davis Nguyen

did not always enjoy public speaking. In fact, during my first presentation I froze up and was asked to take a seat.

I made it a goal from that day that I would be a better public speaking. After hundreds of hours of reading, attending lessons, and practicing, I became a better speaker and even won a few awards and honors along the way.

I often get asked, “Is there a way for me to be a better speaker without having to spend so many hours practicing? I just want to give one speech.”

It is an honest question.

If you are like most people, you’ll have to give a speech at some point (or multiple points) in your life.

If you are like most people, you’re afraid to death of a thought of giving a presentation.

And if you are like most people, you don’t have countless hours each week to join an organization like Toastmasters or to practice your public speaking skills.

While I do encourage joining an organization like Toastmasters or another training program if public speaking is something you do on a regular or almost daily basis, for most people being asked to speak even once a week is rare.

If you are one of these people, you don’t want to spend 10,000 hours or even twenty hours practicing. You can still deliver a killer and memorable speech. You just need to know how to overcome the doubt you have and learn some simple techniques for effortlessly crafting a presentation.

4 Mental & Physical Hacks Before you can give a killer speech, you have to be prepared to speak and this involves learning to overcome your

fear of public speaking. Overcoming your fear of public speaking is done both mentally and physically.

1. Come prepared Before your presentation, make sure you know what you will be talking about and that you have everything ready. Being prepared means knowing who your audience is, remembering your message, arriving early to setup and bringing everything you need with you. Make a list before you leave the house if you have to. When you know you have everything, you won’t stress out about missing something.

2. Remember the audience Your audience is there for a reason.

If you are being asked to speak, the audience wants to hear and learn from you. No one takes away part of their day,

makes the time to travel to where your talk is, and spends money to get there just to hope that the speaker messes up. The audience wants you to succeed.

If you need a reminder, keep saying to yourself, “They want me to succeed, so they can succeed.”

3. Breathe Breathing will calm you down before you speak. Practice breathing before your name is called to speak.

4. Stand Up Straight Stand up straight as you present. You will project your confidence, help with your own breathing, and allow your voice to project better.

These four things will help you overcome your fear of public speaking. Now with your actual presentation, follow these three steps.

3 Steps to Great Public Speaking 1. Have a structure Having a structure you can always rely on will save you time when you have to craft a presentation. When I am rushed for time, I like to use this simple structure: A) Story: I begin with a story since stories helps the audience relate to who I am, grabs their attention, and is easy for me to dive into because it is my story after all.

B) Point of the Story: After telling my story, I talk about why I chose to tell that story. My main points of the presentation.

C) Call to Action: Finally I have a call to action. If I just gave a training presentation, my call to action is for my students to implement what they just learned. If it is a motivational talk for them to leave the room feeling inspired.

2. Make it a Conversation The easiest way to give a memorable talk is to make it conversational. If you look at the most popular TED Talks like Susan Cain’s Power of Introverts or Ken Robinson’s How Schools Kill Creativity, you’ll notice they were all personal and had plenty of stories to tell.

If you keep your presentation personal, as if you were talking to a friend, you will build a better connection with your audience, lower your own nervousness, and leave more people satisfied.

3. Ask for Feedback After you finish with your presentation ask for feedback. What did you do right? What you could have done better?

Next time you speak, take one of those pieces of feedback into consideration and use it to improve your talk.

That way, each time you speak you are getting better.

(Source: expertenough.com)

DIY wall mounted Christmas tree

EYSpace

I've always liked the idea of a wall mounted Christmas tree, especially because I live in a small apartment where floor space is at a premium. But most of the ones I've seen mounted on walls don't tend to look like real Christmas trees, which is what I wanted. So I came up with this idea to use pine garland to make a more traditional looking wall mounted Christmas tree. It's so easy to put up and I especially love the fact that there's no chance that my cat will topple it over, win-win!

Step 1: Supplies

Step 2: Draw the tree outline

I used 3 pine garlands, each 9 ft long and 1 package of Glue I drew the outline of the tree with painters tape, and I Dots Flexible hang tabs to make the tree. made the base 3 ft wide.

Step 3: Attach the garland to the wall

I used flexible hang tabs to hang the garlands, starting with the outline first, and then filling in the inside, fluffing up the garland to fill in the space.

Step 4: Decorate the tree

Step 5: Taking the tree down

I decorated the tree just like you would a regular Christmas tree, with lights and ornaments. For the trunk, I used a scrap The flexible hang tabs are easily removable and won't piece of 2"x3" and stained it. And I also made a rustic box damage the wall so the tree is easy to take down and with shimms and scrap wood to have a place to put presents. store without taking up much space.

Heavy drinking during youth can disrupt brain development Five effective and simple remedies to take care of your feet this winter xcessive alcohol use during adoles- tional studies conducted over the course of

E

cence can disrupt the development of brain and increase risk of substance use disorder later in life, a study says.

"The maturation of the brain is still ongoing in adolescence, and especially the frontal areas and the cingulate cortex develop until the twenties. Our findings strongly indicate that heavy alcohol use may disrupt this maturation process," said first author of the study Noora Heikkinen from University of Eastern Finland.

Cingulate cortex has an important role in impulse control, and volumetric changes in this area may play an important role in the development of a substance use disorder later in life.

The study -- published in the journal Addiction -- performed magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain structure on young and healthy, but heavy-drinking adults who had been heavy drinkers throughout their adolescence, as well as on age-matched light-drinking control participants.

They participated in three cross-sec-

ten years, in 2005, 2010 and 2015. The participants were 13 to 18 years old at the onset of the study.

All participants were academically successful, and the prevalence of mental health problems did not differ between the two groups.

Although the heavy-drinking participants had used alcohol regularly for ten years, approximately six-nine units roughly once a week, none of them had a diagnosed alcohol use disorder.

MRI of the brain revealed statistically significant differences between the groups.

Among the heavy-drinking participants, grey matter volume was decreased in the anterior cingulate cortex bilaterally as well as in the right insula.While cingulate cortex has an important role in impulse control, structural changes in the insula, on the other hand, may reflect a reduced sensitivity to alcohol's negative subjective effects, and in this way contribute to the development of a substance use disorder.

(Source: IANS)

Most people love winters! The prospect of nursing a warm cup of coffee and staying in bed, inside the cosy blankets is always a little tempting. But the extreme weather comes with its own problems.

It takes a toll on our body, especially our feet and if not taken care of, it can lead to painful and bleeding heels. Moisturising and massaging at home can make a world of difference.

Enjoy the winter chill and happy feet with these five effective home remedies: *Massage with olive oil Applying olive oil on the affected areas of your feet, like painful cracks, will help in nourishing the skin and regulating oxygen supply. *Honey and warm water therapy Soak your feet in a warm water basin mixed with honey and gently scrub the affected area. Honey is one of the main ingredients in Ayurveda for its bactericidal and antiseptic properties. Honey is

also an effective moisturising agent. *Moisturise affected area twice a day Use a gentle moisturiser to apply on your feet to keep your skin soft and supple. This way you can avoid the dryness and roughness that comes along with the winter chill. *Apply herbal foot care cream on the affected area Wash your feet with lukewarm water and pat dry. Apply optimal amount of foot care cream, preferably herbal, on the painful cracks twice daily, preferably once in the morning after bathing and again before bedtime. *Wear cotton socks Protect your feet from the harsh weather, pollution and dust by wearing cotton socks. Cotton socks also regulate proper air circulation, and the chances of your feet stinking will decrease considerably.

(Source: The Indian Express)

The Naga Blog is a forum on Facebook where Naga’s from Nagaland and around the world network, share ideas and discuss a wide range of topics from politics and philosophy to music and current events in Nagaland and beyond. The blog is not owned by any individual, nor is it affiliated to or associated with any political party or religion.

The only movement it hopes to stir is the one raised by the voices of the Naga’s every step of the way, amassing perhaps to mass consciousness one day.

www.facebook.com/groups/thenagablog

Experiencing local talents: one night with musicians Nokchem Angth: I'm writing this to appreciate and pay my standing ovation to all the local artists who took part in a concert at Pop Culture Summit at The Heritage, Kohima.

This was my first time that I attended the concert.

I'm not a guy who enjoys concert and all but this time I made a decision to attend and see how our Naga musicians are. I know, just my presence and observations may not make any difference in your life or career but please accept my big SALUTATIONS to each one of you. I never expected that our musicians can do such an amazing stage performance. It was really AMAZING, quite satisfactory for me though I don't know how other audience observed the show. For me, it was more than I expected.

Thank you for such a wonderful gift!

There are two types of talent. One, (talent) by nature and other (talent) bought by money. But all of you have a phenomenal talent, which I concluded that we Nagas can do much much better than others.

From the initial till the end, the show was absolutely admirable leaving many audience lusting for more and more music. Now, I think we don't need to hire those international bands or singers to show their music in our state when we have our own brothers and sisters doing very commendable job in the field; instead of wasting our resources to watch the outsiders, we should invest those resources to promote our own fellow brothers and sisters.

Admired all the artists but above all, my admiration goes to a guy by a name "Jonathan Yhome" (Kindly correct me if I pronounced it wrong), his voice is unbelievable. I never thought that we Nagas can produce a person with such an enthralling voice. I admired him the most when he remembered our legendary singer Methanelie Angami by bringing back his song "I call her" to the stage and enchanted and entertained all the crowd present in the hall. Frankly speaking, I have a crack voice but I too joined him signing the old lovely song of our legend. That spirit should be inculcated by each musician because it is always good to remember and honour the past.

May I take this opportunity to appeal to the government, organizers, musicians and the crowd. * To Government: My humbly appeal to the government on behalf of the Naga Youth. Please take our Naga musicians very seriously. I think the government needs to invest and give more importance to the music industry and promote the young talented Naga youth. We have many hidden talents but they could not break it out because of lack of smart infrastructure but once the government gives them an opportunity to explore then I'm sure, we will receive good package of music from them. But in present scenario where the government gives less importance and practice the system of selective and partiality even in giving opportunity, many of them are discouraged to take up the profession as they can see less scope in our society.

If the government invests the amount (that is invested in merry making) in music industry then for me, I feel even the number of unemployment will reduce by huge margin. So it is time for the government to recognize the virgin talent of the Naga youth in music and act wisely which will benefit both the parties.

The government should also recognize and support the website like "Indihut" which is contributing immensely without any expectation in return. * To Organizers: While appreciating yeoman job and hard work of the different events organizers, particularly "Concert" to promote our musicians, I would like to appeal to all not to make the habit of free show. Your event might not be in the standard of international or national level but I think, in order to support our musicians, the ticket system should be made mandatory. The organisers should not take huge amount but let's say, a few rupees in the starting will make things different. Yes, at the beginning you might not be able to sell the tickets and you may have few crowd even but it shouldn't be an excuse because in the beginning everything is hard.

Out of this, whatever you generate the revenue, encourage the musicians by giving a few percent. But please NO FREE SHOW anymore because nothing comes for free. * To Musicians: You guys are great but you lack something. And that is, you don't encourage, support and motivate each other. Not all the time you could sing well or you could select the song that entertain the audience so in such juncture, the musicians should come together and cheer up your fellow member/s on the stage even if the crowd shows no interest. And that will keep the sense of unity among your community.

And lastly * To the crowd: Please let us all continue to support and stand with our local artists.

May our Naga musicians shine more and more.

Thank you!

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed here are the views of the individual and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of The Naga Blog.

8

saturDaY 10•12•2016

INDIA

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Ex-IAF chief SP Tyagi arrested in AgustaWestland probe New Delhi, December 9 (iANS): The CBI on Friday arrested former Indian Air Force (IAF) chief S.P. Tyagi on charges of corruption in its ongoing probe into the Rs 3,767-crore AgustaWestland helicopter deal. SP Tyagi is the first chief of any wing of the armed forces to be arrested in the country.

He was taken into custody from Delhi along with his cousin Sanjeev Tyagi alias Julie Tyagi and a Delhi-based lawyer, Gautam Khaitan, for their involvement in alleged irregularities in the procurement of 12 AW-101 VVIP helicopters from a UK-based private company AgustaWestland.

"S.P. Tyagi, his cousin Sanjeev and Gautam Khaitan were arrested from Delhi. They will be produced before a designated CBI court on Saturday," CBI spokesperson Devpreet Singh told IANS. She said the total deal amount in AgustaWestland was Rs 3,767 crore and bribe amount was 12% of this.

"It was revealed during investigation that undue favours were allegedly shown to AgustaWestland by accepting illegal grati-

Former IAF Chief S P Tyagi. (File Photo)

fication from the accused vendors through middlemen or relatives including S.P. Tyagi's cousin Sanjeev and advocate Khaitan," the spokesperson said.

It was alleged that S.P. Tyagi entered into criminal conspiracy with the other accused in 2005, one year after he came to head the IAF. S.P. Tyagi, his cousins Sanjeev, Rajiv and Sandeep and 14 others, including three European middlemen -- Guido Ralph Haschke, Carlo Vlentino Ferdinando Gerosa and Christian Michel - were

named in an FIR which the Central Bureau of Investigation lodged in March 12, 2013.

Others named in the FIR are the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Aeromatrix Info Solution Pvt Ltd Praveen Bakshi, Chairman of IDS Infotech Ltd (India) Satish Bagrodia and its Managing Director Pratap K. Aggarwal.

Giuseppe Orsi and Bruno Spagnolini, then CEOs of the Italy-based companies Finmeccanica and AgustaWestland, were also named in the FIR. And so were compa-

nies Finmeccanica, AgustaWestland, IDS Infotech Ltd (India) and Aeromatrix India. The former IAF chief has been accused in Italy and India of helping AgustaWestland win the chopper contract by reducing the flying ceiling of the helicopter from 6,000 metres to 4,500 metres (15,000 feet).

CBI officials probing the case told IANS that such changes in operational requirements made AgustaWestland eligible to participate in the Request For Proposal (RFP) for VVIP helicopters. RFP is a document that solicits proposal, often made through a bidding process.

S.P. Tyagi has said the decision to buy AgustaWestland helicopters was reportedly taken in consultation with officials of the Special Protection Group and the Prime Minister's Office.

Twelve helicopters were to be bought by India but the deal was axed in January 2013 when the corruption allegations surfaced.

Tyagi headed the IAF from 2004 to 2007 when the Congress ruled India.

The Congress-led coalition

was voted out in 2014.

An Italian court in April this year purportedly referred to Congress President Sonia Gandhi and former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, among others, in connection with the chopper deal but gave no details of any wrongdoing by either.

CBI files chargesheet against Marans In a separate case, the CBI on Friday filed a chargesheet against former central minister Dayanidhi Maran and his elder brother Kalanithi Maran, Chairman and Managing Director of Sun TV Network, for allegedly installing telephones illegally.

The CBI also filed charges against officials of Sun TV, two retired Chief General Managers (CGM) of BSNL and then then Additional Personal Secretary of Dayanidhi Maran.

According to a CBI statement, the case has registered under the Prevention of Corruption Act against Dayanidhi Maran, retired CGMs M.P. Velusamy and K.B. Brahmadathan as well as others. They were charged with installing a number of high-end tele-

Over 1,900 tourists evacuated from Andaman & Nicobar islands New Delhi/porT blAir, December 9 (iANS): Over 1,900 tourists were taken to safety by air and sea from Andaman and Nicobar islands till Friday evening. The sudden evacuation was necessitated over fears of a cyclonic storm.

While 1,614 people were taken to safety from Havelock Island, 289 were evacuated from Neil island by Indian Air Force helicopters, Indian Navy,

Coast Guard, DSS and private ships, according to a Defence Ministry spokesperson. Six Indian Navy ships, three Coast Guard vessels and three MI-17 V5 choppers took part in the rescue mission that started on Friday morning despite rain and strong winds.

The army and the Andaman administration also joined the rescue operations. The three IAF choppers carried out 14 sorties.

"Six Indian Navy ships and three Indian Coast Guard ships sailed out at 9.30 a.m. from Port Blair for rescue operations. Three Indian Air Force helicopters are also taking part in IN, ICG, Army, State administration joint operation for evacuation of stranded tourists in the Havelock Island," the Indian Navy said in a statement.

The sudden evacuation mission was initiated at the request of the Andaman

and Nicobar Disaster Management, which speculates that a "cyclonic storm" might strike Havelock, an island about 36 km from capital Port Blair. The navy on Wednesday made its first attempt to rescue the tourists stranded on Havelock.

However, due to extreme weather conditions, the tourists could not reach the jetty to board the ships.

Four navy ships had to return in a failed rescue

communication facilities at the residence of Dayanidhi Maran here illegally under service category and not raising bills during the period (2004-07), causing a huge loss to the government.

It was alleged that from June 2004 to December 2006, 364 telephone numbers/lines were installed at the Gopalapuram residence of the then central minister.

And from December 2006 to September 2007, 353 telephone lines were put up at Ist Avenue Boat Club Road, Chennai, his new residence.

According to the CBI, 10 post-paid mobile connections were given to a private television channel on the verbal orders of Dayanidhi Maran and the connections were given under "service category" and no bill was raised.

"There was huge data transfer which included voice, video and audio through these telephone connections and all these facilities were allegedly used for the benefit of said television channel network, owned by his (Dayanidhi Maran's) brother," the CBI said.

New Delhi, December 9 (iANS): Terming political corruption as the fountainhead of all corruption in the country, CIC Information Commissioner M.S. Acharyulu on Friday said demonetisation will not succeed unless political parties became transparent.

Speaking at the Transparency International India's National Conference here on 'Combating Corruption', the Central Information Commission's officer questioned the Representation of the People Act, 1951, which requires political parties to declare details of only contributions received in excess of Rs 20,000.

"You have a law in this country which says political parties need not disclose donations below Rs 20,000.

If a law, instead of facilitating transparency, authorises

non-transparency, then how can you expect to reduce the influence of money in elections," he asked.

"Political corruption is the fountainhead of all corruption in the country.

"I am not against tax exemption to political parties but let me know the extent of exemption you enjoy. Why don't the political parties disclose donations below Rs 20,000.

"Non-disclosure of political donations below Rs 20,000 will fail any system, including demonetisation," said the noted legal expert.

Blaming the political parties for "failing the system", Acharyulu said state funding of elections will be counter-productive unless political parties became transparent.

"Today we are talking about state funding of elections. But

ThiruvANANThApurAm, December 9 (iANS): The All India Bank Employees Association (AIBEA) has asked the RBI not to mislead public by claiming that adequate money was being sent to banks in Kerala.

C.D. Josson, the state secretary of AIBEA, told IANS that while the battle against black money was fine, banks and ATMs had been rendered cashless after demonetisation. "We banking staff are the contact point with people.

When the RBI issues statements that it is providing adequate currencies, the ire of the public at large is against us. This has to stop," said Josson. He said the need of the hour was Rs 500, Rs 100, Rs 50 and Rs 20 notes.

The AIBEA also urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to honour his word by bringing back black money stashed in foreign banks. "We request you to see that the outstanding loans of big corporates and of people like Vijay Mallya be recovered. Also, the names of big (loan) defaulters should be published," it said in a statement.

IT raid unearths 44 fake accounts at Axis Bank branch in Delhi New Delhi, December 9 (iANS): The Income Tax (IT) department has unearthed 44 fake accounts during a raid at an Axis Bank branch in central Delhi's Chandni Chowk area, officials said on Friday. An IT official said that about Rs 100 crore were deposited in these accounts with withdrawn currency notes since November 8 -- when Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the demonetisation of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes.

"These 44 fake accounts were created using forged documents. We suspect that the money may have been routed to buy gold," said the official.Meanwhile, Axis Bank issued a statement in which it said that strict action will be taken in the matter. "The bank is committed to following the highest standards of corporate governance and has zero tolerance towards any deviation on the part of any of its employees from the set model code of conduct. Strict action will be taken against any employee found deviating from the guideline. We would also like to add that we are cooperating with the investigating agencies," Axis Bank spokesperson said.

This is the second raid at an Axis Bank branch following the demonetisation decision.

Education is precondition of economic growth: Manmohan

attempt, the officials from A&N Disaster Management informed. "Now the weather conditions have improved. It's only moderate rain and winds," an official from A&N Disaster Management told IANS. The official said the sudden evacuation was called for as they did not want to take any risk given that a deep depression (in the sea) developed about 310 km from Port Blair. chANDigArh, December 9 (pTi): Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh today said that a well educated population, adequately equipped with knowledge and skills, is a precondition of sustained without transparency in politi- economic growth.

The expansion of educal parties, such a move will be sheer wastage of public mon- cational opportunities at ey. You can introduce state all levels (from elemenfunding only subject to the tary to higher education) condition that each and every has contributed to accelpolitical party will be transpar- erate economic growth by creating a more producent," he added.

While hailing Prime Min- tive labour force endowed ister Narendra Modi's deci- with enhanced knowledge sion to ask all BJP MPs and and skills and promoting MLAs to submit their bank and encouraging modtransaction-details since the ern attitudes among all November 8 announcement the diverse segments of of demonetisation, Acharyulu population, he said. In his questioned why the same was inaugural address on the not asked to be done by all occasion of 17th Annual Conference of the Indian Members of Parliament.

"It is a very welcome move Association of Social Scibut why not all the MPs? Why ences Institutions (IASSI), just bank transactions and why he said education is well not their income tax returns," recognised as an instruhe asked. He also lamented ment of fast economic delack of action against elected velopment and is key to representatives for perjury and the achievement of social misrepresentation of facts. and economic transfor-

Avoid wrapping food in 'Political corruption will fail any newspaper, it's harmful system, including demonetisation' New Delhi, December 9 (iANS): Wrapping food items in newspaper is bad for your health as its ink has multiple bioactive materials with known negative health effects, FSSAI said on Friday. "Wrapping food in newspapers is an unhealthy practice and the consumption of such food is injurious to health, even if the food has been cooked hygienically," the Food, Safety and Standard Authority of India (FSSAI) said in an advisory.

"Printing inks may also contain harmful colours, pigments, binders, additives, and preservatives. Besides chemical contaminants, presence of pathogenic micro organisms in used newspapers also poses potential risk to human health," the advisory said. The advisory also said that even paper/cardboard boxes made of recycled paper may be contaminated with harmful chemicals like phthalate which can cause digestive problems and also lead to severe toxicity.

According to the advisory, the Commissioners of Food Safety of all States/Union Territories will initiate systematic campaigns for generating awareness among all the stakeholders to discourage the use of newspapers for packing, serving and storing food items.

RBI misleading people: AIBEA

mation.

IASSI is a federal body of Universities and research Institutions in India founded by Tarlok Singh, who through his work and writings left a lasting imprint on all areas of governance in this country.

Education, and particularly higher education has drawn attention in recent times as never before, to the advent of a knowledge society in which knowledge is not just a means of cultural advancement or skill improvement, but knowledge as mover of technology and innovation, itself has become an industry providing lead to economic growth, he said.

There is a close relationship between the generation of knowledge and innovations leading to higher productivity, he said. "The adoption of innovations and absorptions of new technologies depends on spread of education in general and science education in particular. The fast growing economies in the 21st century are going to be knowledge dominated and largely service economies," he said. The expansion of education and its equitable access will determine largely the future of economic and social progress of India, he said. The

expansion of education determines not only the rate of economic progress but also the rate of social and economic transformation, he said.

"Whether the nature of this transformation and economic progress will be inclusive or exclusive depends on the equitable access and quality of education for all below the age of 25 years," he said. India has experienced an absolute decline in workforce engaged in agriculture as cultivators and agricultural labourers, he said.

As per NSS surveys, the percentage of workforce engaged in agriculture in 1999-2000 was 56.64 per cent which declined to 48.9 per cent in 2011-12, he said.

The workforce being released from agriculture is shifting to urban areas in search of work, he said.

It is through the education and employment that the common people can be empowered and made partners in economic and social transformation of the country, he said.

"By imparting universally accepted secular education the individuals can be empowered with human values which enable them to contribute in building a socially and culturally harmonious society," he said.

India ranked 7th among countries most hit by terror Abheet Singh Sethi IANS/IndiaSpend

India was ranked 7th in the list of countries most impacted by terrorism in 2015, according to the Global Terrorism Index (GTI), 2016, released by the Institute for Economics & Peace, a Sydney-based think-tank.

India is one of six Asian countries ranked in the top 10 nations most impacted by terrorism. The Heart of Asia conference adopted the Amritsar declaration on December 4, 2016, which recognises "terrorism, violent extremism, radicalization, separatism, and sectarianism and linkages among them" as the gravest challenges facing the region.

The declaration voiced particular concern about the "high level of violence"

by ISIS and its affiliates, the Haqqani Network, al

Qaeda, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad and Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan - all based in South Asia.

India recorded 289 terrorism-related deaths in 2015, a 45 per cent decline over 2014. However, the number of Indian Army and paramilitary soldiers killed this year is at an eight-year high, IndiaSpend reported on November 29, 2016.

As many as 797 terrorist attacks were recorded in India in 2015, up 4 per cent since 2014, the report said.

While the 2015 attacks were the highest since 2000, 80 per cent were nonlethal. Overall, 49 different terrorist groups were engaged in attacks but 31 of these failed to kill anyone.

"This suggests that groups are seeking to remind governments of their presence without provoking significant military reactions," the report said.

India experienced 7 per cent of all terrorist attacks around the world, the fourth highest after Iraq (20 per cent), Afghanistan (14 per cent) and Pakistan (8 per cent). India, in 2015, had fewer terror attacks (797) than only Iraq (2,415), Afghanistan (1,715) and Pakistan (1,008). India suffered twice as many attacks as Syria (384).

Deaths from terror attacks globally declined 10 per cent from the highest recorded level of 32,765 in 2014 to 29,376 in 2015, the GTI report said.

The GTI score for a country is calculated based on weightage assigned to the total number of terrorist incidents, fatalities, injuries and property damage sustained in the year in question. The index also takes into consideration attacks which took place in the four previous years.

A 32 per cent reduction in terror deaths in Iraq and Nigeria led to a global decline in deaths by 41 per cent in 2015. Both countries accounted for 53 per cent of all terrorism-related deaths across the world in 2014.

of terrorism, as a proportion of a country's GDP, is highest in Iraq at 17.3 per cent, followed by Afghanistan (16.8 per cent) and Syria (8.3 per cent).

Violent conflict, as a whole, caused $13.6 trillion loss to the global economy in 2015 (in purchasing parity Economic loss from ter- terms), or 13.3 of global GDP. rorism $635 billion over 16 years OECD countries see 650 The global economic per cent rise in terror-reimpact of terrorism has lated deaths been $635 billion over 16 The Organisation for years, from 2000 to 2015. Economic Co-operation That is an amount equiva- and Development (OECD) lent to the annual gross do- countries - the world's most mestic product (GDP) of developed - witnessed a Egypt and Malaysia.

650 per cent increase in Since 2014, the loss has terrorism deaths, from 77 declined from a 16-year in 2014 to 577 in 2015, the high of $106 billion to the worst year for the 35-nation second-highest level of $90 bloc since the 2001 Sepbillion, at constant 2015 tember 11 attacks. prices. The GTI report said Turkey, a part of OECD, the decline related to the witnessed 337 deaths in decrease in terror deaths 2015, the highest among from 2014 to 2015.

OECD countries. TerrorThe economic impact ist violence in Turkey rose

from attacks by the separatist Kurdistan Worker's Party (PKK) and ISIS in 2015.

The report notes that for 14 years until the start of 2015, France had averaged one terrorism-related death per annum. In 2015, France recorded 161 deaths, making it the second biggest victim of terrorism in the developed world. This includes the November 2015 Paris attacks that killed 136 and the Charlie Hebdo attack in January.

Over half of all attacks in the OECD countries were by or inspired by ISIS, a trend which has continued in 2016 with attacks in Brussels, Istanbul, Nice and Orlando, which have killed 211 people.

6,960 dead and 11,900 injured in 2,415 incidents.

Afghanistan and Nigeria were ranked second and third with 5,312 and 4,940 deaths, respectively.

The GTI score is based on the relative impact of terrorist incidents by accounting for the number of incidents, fatalities, injuries and total property damage.

Pakistan is ranked fourth with 1,086 deaths in 2015, a 38 per cent decline since 2014. The report notes that terrorism in Pakistan "has moved from the border region with Afghanistan" to other parts of the country, "especially in the Punjab province" that borders India.

Terrorism has cost Pakistan $118 billion over the last 15 years in direct and Iraq worst hit indirect costs, according to by terrorism Pakistan's Economic SurIraq was the worst vey 2015-16, IndiaSpend hit by terror in 2015 with reported in August 2016.

ISIS world's deadliest group ISIS overtook its African affiliate Boko Haram as the world's deadliest terrorist group in 2015, with attacks causing 6,141 deaths.

ISIS expanded the number of countries where it conducted attacks from six in 2014 to 11 in 2015.

A staggering 4,502 people were killed in terrorist attacks by the Taliban in Afghanistan in 2015, a 29% increase since 2014. The year 2015 was also the deadliest for terrorism in Afghanistan, even as the Afghan security forces struggle to contain a resurgent Taliban and the United States draws down its troop presence in the country.

The increased violence in Afghanistan threatens the $2 billion worth of Indian aid to the country in a bid to stabilise Afghanistan's civilian leadership, IndiaSpend reported in July 2015.

saturdaY 10•12•2016

WORLD

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

9

John Glenn, first American to orbit Earth, dies at 95 Will Dunham

was rocketed into space for a record-breaking trip that would last just under five hours.

Reuters

John Glenn, who became one of the 20th century’s greatest explorers as the first American to orbit Earth and later as the world’s oldest astronaut, and also had a long career as a U.S. senator, died in Ohio on Thursday at age 95.

Glenn, the last surviving member of the original seven American “Right Stuff” Mercury astronauts, died at the James Cancer Hospital at Ohio State University in Columbus, said Hank Wilson, a spokesman at the university’s John Glenn College of Public Affairs, which Glenn helped found.

Glenn was credited with reviving U.S. pride after the Soviet Union’s early domination of manned space exploration. His three laps around the world in the Friendship 7 capsule on Feb. 20, 1962, forged a powerful link between the former fighter pilot and the Kennedy-era quest to explore outer space as a “New Frontier.”

President Barack Obama, who in 2012 awarded Glenn the nation’s highest civilian honour, the Presidential Medal of Freedom, said: “With John’s passing, our nation has lost an icon.”

“When John Glenn blasted off from Cape Ca-

Astronaut John Glenn waves with crewmates as they depart crew quarters for the launching pad at the Kennedy Space Centre October 29, 1998. REUTERS/File Photo

naveral atop an Atlas rocket in 1962, he lifted the hopes of a nation,” Obama said in a statement. “And when his Friendship 7 spacecraft splashed down a few hours later, the first American to orbit the Earth reminded us that with courage and a spirit of discovery there’s no limit to the heights we can reach together.”

President-elect Donald Trump said on Twitter the United States had lost “a great pioneer of air and space in John Glenn. He

was a hero and inspired generations of future explorers.”

As the third of seven astronauts in NASA’s soloflight Mercury program to venture into space, Glenn became more of a media fixture than the others and was known for his composure and willingness to promote the program.

Glenn’s astronaut career, as well as his record as a fighter pilot in World War Two and the Korean War, helped propel him to the

U.S. Senate in 1974, where he represented his home state of Ohio for 24 years as a moderate Democrat.

His star was dimmed somewhat by a Senate investigation of several senators on whether special favours were done for a major campaign contributor. He was cleared of wrongdoing.

Glenn’s entry into history came in early 1962 when fellow astronaut Scott Carpenter bade him “Godspeed, John Glenn” just before the Ohio native

‘VIEW IS TREMENDOUS’ “Zero-G (gravity) and I feel fine,” was Glenn’s succinct assessment of weightlessness several minutes into his mission. “Oh, and that view is tremendous.”

After splashdown and recovery in the Atlantic, Glenn was treated as a hero, addressing a joint session of Congress and feted in a New York ticker-tape parade.

Glenn had been hospitalized since Nov. 25. He “died peacefully,” according to a statement from his family and Ohio State University. “He left this earth for the third time as a happy and fulfilled person,” the statement said.

“Glenn’s extraordinary courage, intellect, patriotism and humanity were the hallmarks of a life of greatness. His missions have helped make possible everything our space program has since achieved and the human missions to an asteroid and Mars that we are striving toward now,” NASA Administrator Charles Bolden said.

Glenn’s experiences as a pioneer astronaut were chronicled in the book and movie “The Right Stuff,” along with the other Mercury pilots. The book’s au-

thor, Tom Wolfe, called Glenn “the last true national hero America has ever had.”

“I don’t think of myself that way,” Glenn told the New York Times in 2012 to mark the 50th anniversary of his flight. “I get up each day and have the same problems others have at my age. As far as trying to analyse all the attention I received, I will leave that to others.”

Glenn’s historic flight made him a favourite of President John F. Kennedy and his brother Robert, who encouraged him to launch a political career that finally took off after a period as a businessman made him a millionaire.

HERO STATUS Even before his Mercury flight, Glenn qualified for hero status, earning six Distinguished Flying Crosses and flying more than 150 missions in World War Two and the Korean War. After Korea, Glenn became a test pilot, setting a transcontinental speed record from Los Angeles to New York in 1957.

The determination and single-mindedness that marked Glenn’s military and space career did not save him from misjudgments and defeat in politics. He lost his first bid for the Senate from Ohio in 1970, after abandoning a

race in 1964 because of a head injury suffered in a fall.

He was elected in 1974 and was briefly considered as a running mate for Democratic presidential candidate Jimmy Carter in 1980. But a ponderous address at the Democratic National Convention people walked out - caused Carter to remark that Glenn was “the most boring man I ever met.”

Glenn sought the Democratic presidential nomination himself in 1984 but was quickly eliminated by eventual nominee Walter Mondale, Carter’s vice president. His failure was all the more stinging because he had been touted as an early front-runner.

In the Senate, Glenn was respected as a thoughtful moderate with expertise in defence and foreign policy. His lustre was dulled, however, by a Senate investigation of the “Keating Five” - five senators suspected of doing favours for campaign contributor Charles Keating Jr. The panel eventually found Glenn did nothing improper or illegal.

BACK TO SPACE He took a leading role in seeking to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons, especially to Pakistan. He was the author of a law that forced the United States to

impose sanctions on India and Pakistan in 1998 after both countries conducted nuclear tests.

He also was a staunch advocate of a strong military and took a keen interest in strategic issues. He retired from the Senate in 1999.

Thirty-six years after his maiden space voyage, Glenn became America’s first geriatric astronaut on Oct. 29, 1998. He was 77 when he blasted off as a mission specialist aboard the shuttle Discovery. He saw it as a blow to the stereotyping of the elderly.

“Maybe prior to this flight, we were looked at as old geezers who ought to get out of the way,” Glenn said after his nine-day shuttle mission. “Just because you’re up in years some doesn’t mean you don’t have hopes and dreams and aspirations just as much as younger people do.”

John Herschel Glenn Jr. was born on July 18, 1921, in Cambridge, Ohio.

In his latter years, he was an adjunct professor at the John Glenn College of Public Affairs.

He had a knee replacement operation in 2011 and heart surgery in 2014.

Glenn is survived by his wife of 73 years, his childhood sweetheart, Annie Castor. They had two children, David and Lyn.

Conjoined twins separated in surgery Clinton calls ‘fake news’ U.N. urges Suu Kyi to visit the twins, forming a circle a threat to democracy country’s divided northwest with their arms around each

Conjoined twins Erika and Eva Sandoval are shown before their separation surgery December 6, 2016 at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital Stanford in Palo Alto California, U.S. in this handout photo released to Reuters December 8, 2016.

(REUTERS Photo)

LOS ANGeLeS, December 9 (reuTerS): Conjoined 2-year-old twin girls who were separated at a California hospital this week were recovering in stable condition after 17 hours of surgery, officials said on Thursday.

Separation surgery is performed about five times a year in the United States, with doctors successfully handling one last month in Memphis, Tennessee, on twin sisters born in Nigeria.

The operation on Erika and Eva Sandoval, who faced each other, was done at Lucile Packard Children’s Hospital, part of the Stanford University health system in Palo Alto, California.

The surgery was challenging because they shared much of their lower body and had one liver, one bladder and three legs, hospital officials said in a statement.

In video provided by the hospital, the surgical team was shown gathered around

other before beginning the procedure.

The team, in the surgery started on Tuesday completed early on Wednesday, divided the bladder into two separate organs. It also split the liver to give half to each child, the statement said.

The girls each have one leg, with doctors using the third leg for reconstruction, taking its skin and muscle to close one child’s abdominal wall, officials said.

The girls are expected to remain in the intensive care unit at the hospital for two weeks. They are sharing a hospital room in separate beds.

“Seeing them now in the ICU, you look at them and think ‘You’re missing your other half’ but we know that this is the right path for them: to be independent, have the chance to succeed and explore on their own everything the world has to offer,” the twins’ mother, Aida Sandoval, said in a statement.

Most conjoined twins die in the womb, and about half who are born alive do not make it past a day.

WASHINGTON, December 9 (reuTerS): Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton called “fake news” a danger that must be addressed quickly, in a rare public appearance on Thursday, a month after she lost the presidential election in a campaign marked by a flood of such propaganda. “We must stand up for our democracy,” Clinton said during a tribute to retiring Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid, referring to what she called “the epidemic of malicious fake news and false propaganda that flooded social media over the past year.”

Clinton urged action from both the private and public sectors to combat the false reports. “It’s now clear that so-called ‘fake news’ can have real-world consequences. This isn’t about politics or partisanship. Lives are at risk. Lives of ordinary people just trying to go about their days, to do their jobs, contribute to their communities,” she said. Clinton herself has been a target of fake news, with internet postings claiming that a pizza restaurant in Washington was fronting a child sex ring run by Clinton.

On Sunday, a North Carolina man wielding an assault rifle fired a gun inside the restaurant, located in northwest Washington just a few miles from Thursday’s ceremony, according to police, who said the suspect told them he had come to “investigate” a fake news report. Clinton’s appearance at the Thursday event, packed with mostly Democratic elected officials including Vice President Joe Biden, was greeted with a standing ovation and raucous applause.

Clinton, also a former senator who served with Reid, made a wry reference to the relatively low profile she has kept since Republican Donald Trump won the Nov. 8 presidential election, referring to “a few weeks of taking selfies in the woods.”

She indirectly acknowledged her defeat as she began her tribute to Reid: “This is not exactly the speech at the Capitol I hoped to be making after the election.”

The new U.S. president delivers an inaugural address on Jan. 20, standing on a large platform erected every four years on the west front of the Capitol building.

uNITeD NATIONS, December 9 (reuTerS): The United Nations urged Myanmar leader Aung San Suu Kyi on Thursday to visit the country’s divided northwest to reassure civilians they will be protected amid accusations that soldiers have raped Rohingya Muslim women, burnt houses and killed civilians.

Myanmar’s military and government have rejected the allegations.

Soldiers have poured into the area along Myanmar’s frontier with Bangladesh, responding to coordinated attacks on three border posts on Oct. 9 that killed nine police officers. Suu Kyi last Friday accused “the international community” of stoking resentment between Buddhists and Muslims in the Myanmar’s northwest.

“The refusal by the Myanmar authorities to take a strong stance against hardliners, and the adoption of a generally defensive rather than proactive approach to providing security to the local population, have caused frustration locally and disappointment internationally,” Vijay Nambiar, special advisor to U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, said in a statement.

“Only by responding concretely to these concerns will the government be able to resolve the crisis and preserve its international standing,”

Myanmar State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi (L) delivers a speech during a luncheon organised by Japanese business and economic associations in Tokyo, Japan on November 4. (REUTERS File Photo)

said Nambiar, appealing to Suu Kyi to visit Maungdaw and Buthidaung in Rakhine State.

The army crackdown in Rakhine State has killed at least 86 people and sent 10,000 fleeing over the border to Bangladesh. The crisis poses a challenge to Nobel Peace Prize winner Suu Kyi, who swept to power last year on promises of reconciliation.

Former U.N. chief Kofi Annan on Tuesday urged Myanmar security forces to act within the rule of law.

South Korea parliament votes to impeach president Park SeOuL, December 9 (reuTerS): South Korean lawmakers voted overwhelmingly on Friday to impeach President Park Geun-hye over an influence-peddling scandal, setting the stage for her to become the country’s first elected leader to be expelled from office in disgrace.

The impeachment motion was carried by a widerthan-expect 234-56 margin in a secret ballot in parliament, meaning more than 60 of Park’s own conservative Saenuri Party members backed removing her.

The votes of least 200 members of the 300-seat chamber were needed for the motion to pass.

The Constitutional Court must now decide whether to uphold the motion, a process that could take up to 180 days.

“I solemnly accept the voice of the parliament and the people and sincerely hope this confusion is soundly resolved,” Park said at a meeting with her cabinet, adding that she would comply with the court’s proceedings as well as an investigation by a special prosecutor.

Park, whose approval rating stands at just 5 percent, has resisted demands that she step down immediately.

Under the constitution, Park’s duties were assumed by

Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ahn on an interim basis until the court rules.

“I stand here with heavyhearted sadness,” Hwang said in a televised address. “As an aide to the president, I feel deep responsibility about the situation we have come to face.”

Cheers had erupted outside the chamber of the domed parliament building when the vote was announced. People held signs saying “Victory for the People” and “New Republic of Korea”.

Earlier, anti-Park activists scuffled with police as they tried to drive two tractors up to parliament’s main gate.

Choi Jung-hoon, a 46-year high school teacher, joined the rally outside parliament with his wife and daughters, age 7 and 18 months.

“I wanted my kids to be here, making history, at a historic moment, and show we people can win,” he said.

MASS RALLIES Park, 64, is accused of colluding with a friend and a former aide, both of whom have been indicted by prosecutors, to pressure big businesses to donate to two foundations set up to back her policy initiatives.

Park, who is serving a single five-year term that was set to end in February 2018, has denied wrongdoing but apologised for carelessness in her ties with her friend, Choi Soon-sil.

If Park leaves office early, an election must be held within 60 days.

The poll frontrunners are United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and ex-lawmaker Moon Jae-in, the former leader of the main opposition Democratic Party, who lost the 2012 election to Park by 3 percentage points.

“The power of candles has made a big change without any arrest or casualty,” said thirdplaced presidential hopeful Lee Jae-myeong, mayor of the city of Seongnam, referring to the candle-lit anti-Park rallies that have drawn huge, peaceful crowds to central Seoul for the last six Saturdays.

Another rally was planned for this weekend.

“It has opened up a new era in the history of the Republic of Korea’s democracy,” Lee who has said he wants to be the South Korean Bernie Sanders told Reuters.

Kang Dong-wan, a professor at Dong-A University in Busan, said the large impeach-

People react after impeachment vote on South Korean President Park Geun-hye was passed, in front of the National Assembly in Seoul, South Korea on December 9. The sign reads “Impeach Park Geun-hye”. (REUTERS Photo)

ment vote from Park’s own party was probably a result of rising crowds at weekly demonstrations.

“It looks like more from the ruling Saenuri Party gave their support than many had expected after realizing that the party could collapse if the bill doesn’t get approved,” Kang said.

Prime Minister Hwang, whose post is largely ceremo-

nial, assumed interim presidential powers while the court deliberates.

He takes the helm at a time of heightened tension with North Korea, and said after the vote that the chances of a provocation by Pyongyang were high.

Various agencies, including the Finance Ministry and financial regulators, planned emergency meetings later on Friday.

South Korea’s economic outlook is also worsening, in part because of the internal political uncertainty.

Investors are likely to be spooked when trading resumes on Monday and remain jittery until the Constitutional Court ruling, analysts said. The won was forecast to lose further ground against the dollar on Monday.

PRESIDENTIAL IMMUNITY FOR NOW The daughter of a military ruler who led the country for 18 years before being assassinated by his disgruntled spy chief in 1979, Park would lose presidential immunity if she left office early, and could be prosecuted for abuse of power and bribery, among other charges.

The Constitutional Court will determine whether parliament followed due process and whether there were sufficient grounds for impeachment. Arguments from the two sides will be heard in public hearings, which Park is unlikely to attend.

The nine-member Constitutional Court is considered conservative in its make-up, but some of its former judges have said the case against Park is strong and was likely to be approved.

In 2004, parliament impeached then-president Roh Moo-hyun, suspending his powers for 63 days while the court reviewed the decision, which it overturned. Unlike now, on that occasion public opinion was against Roh’s impeachment.

The prime minister at the time, Goh Kun, said in a 2013 memoir that he had decided to stay “low-key” while he held the reins of power.

10

saturDaY 10•12•2016

SPORTS

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Warner man of the series as australia thrash new Zealand meLbourNe, December 9 (aFP): Opener David Warner smashed his second straight hundred and Mitchell Starc bowled lethal reverse swing to spearhead Australia to a third emphatic win over New Zealand in the Chappell-Hadlee Trophy in Melbourne on Friday.

The Australian vice-captain was run out on the last ball of the innings for 156 off 128 balls -- more than half of his team's 264 for eight total -- with 13 fours and four sixes.

It follows Warner's 119 off 115 balls against the Black Caps in Canberra on Tuesday.

Starc then led Australia to a series clean sweep helping to skittle New Zealand for 147 off 36.1 overs to reclaim the ChappellHadlee Trophy.

Starc bowled Henry Nicholls and Colin Munro with unplayable yorkers and then trapped Mitchell Santner leg before wicket with reverse swing to finish with three for 34.

Warner, with 299 runs at 99.66 from the three matches, was named man of the match and man of the series after raising his 11th ODI century and seventh for the year.

Only Indian great Sachin Tendulkar, with nine in 1998, has hit more ODI centuries in a calendar year.

"It's a team performance," Warner said. "Credit to the bowlers for coming out and executing the plans.

"Our batsmen had to relay the message and they did extremely well."

Warner was the difference after New Zealand had made early inroads into the Australian batting.

He was involved in partnerships with George Bailey (62) and Travis Head (105) which helped Australia fight back from 11 for two and 73 for four.

Warner gave a tough chance on 18

Australia's David Warner celebrates reaching his 11th ODI century against New Zealand in Melbourne on December 9, 2016 (AFP Photo)

when he pulled Lockie Ferguson to deep mid-wicket, where a diving Nicholls couldn't take a difficult low catch.

Then Australia's bowlers finished off the job with Starc in deadly form and supported by paceman Pat Cummins, medium-pacer James Faulkner and part-time spinner Travis Head, all with two wickets.

Cummins claimed the wicket of opener Tom Latham for 28, snapped up by

Faulkner at backward square leg.

Faulkner got the prized wicket of Kane Williamson, leg before wicket for 13 with the New Zealand skipper losing a review in the process.

Martin Guptill chased a wide delivery from Head, and Bailey snapped up a leaping catch at short cover for 34 off 40 balls.

- Starc strikes Eleven balls later Starc bowled new-

comer Nicholls with a wicked late-swinging yorker for three to reduce the Black Caps to 83 for four in the 17th over.

Starc then ripped through the defences of Colin Munro and trapped Santner leg before wicket to wreck the Black Caps hopes.

Captain Steve Smith sealed the victory with another stunning one-handed flying catch at slip to dismiss Trent Boult off Cummins.

"The catch wasn't a bad one. It was a nice way to finish," Smith said.

"We have put up a pretty complete performance in all three games. We needed to improve after (losing 5-0 to) South Africa.

"It's very satisfying. We've played some very good one-day cricket, guys have been getting some big runs."

The Black Caps began strongly and dismissed Aaron Finch and Smith cheaply before Bailey revived the innings with Warner.

Bailey spooned a catch to Santner at mid-wicket off Colin de Grandhomme for 23 and two balls later Mitchell Marsh was out in bizarre fashion when he inside-edged off his back pad and onto his stumps for a duck, after his power-hitting 76 off 40 balls in Canberra.

Head maintained his consistent series with a fighting 37 off 70 balls before he was bowled by spinner Santner, after scores of 52 in Sydney and 57 in Canberra.

Matt Wade chipped in with 14 and Faulkner 13 before Warner was the last man out attempting a single off the final ball only to be run out by Boult, who finished with three for 49.

"There has been a player in the Aussie side who has contributed in every game," Williamson said.

"We did want to show signs of improvement, which is why today's performance was especially disappointing."

Over 80 child sex abuse suspects, nearly 100 clubs: UK police LoNDoN, December 9 (aFP): Police have identified 83 potential suspects in the child sex abuse scandal that has rocked English football and believe 98 clubs from all levels have been 'impacted', the National Police Chiefs Council revealed on Friday.

The scandal -- in which two men have been charged with sex abuse although several of the coaches against whom allegations have been made are out of reach as they are now dead -- has seen over a third of all British police forces launch investigations.

The NPCC added that 98 percent of the victims, believed to total 350, are male with their ages at the

time of the alleged abuse ranging from seven to 20.

The National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) said the figures reflected the seriousness of the scandal.

"These shocking numbers now identified by police reveal the deeply disturbing extent of abuse that has been going on within football," said an NSPCC spokesman.

The NPCC said all calls were being treated seriously -- a total of 639 referrals have been relayed to Operation Hydrant which is the overall police investigation into historic sex abuse and who analyse the claims -and being dealt with as quickly as possible.

"We are ensuring an

efficient and effective service-wide approach to investigating allegations, removing the potential for duplication and enabling the timely and effective sharing of intelligence and information between forces," said Simon Bailey, the lead for the NPCC on child protection.

"We are also liaising closely with the Football Association to ensure all relevant information they hold is shared to inform investigations moving forward.

"As the number of calls being received across the service is higher than usual, it may take longer than normal for an officer from a local force to make contact to follow up from the

initial call."

- 'Reported to police' There were further revelations on Friday about Southampton, one of the clubs most heavily implicated in what FA chairman Greg Clarke has termed the greatest crisis he can recall in English football.

Dave Merrington, who is supporting all the Saints players -- believed to be as many as 12 -- who have made claims against former youth coach Bob Higgins, says he became aware things weren't right in 1989 when he was youth team boss.

Merrington -- who went on to manage the club from 1995-96 -- says he confronted Higgins, who was cleared of sex abuse charg-

es in 1992 and has denied any wrongdoing since the latest slew of allegations poured forth, about what he had heard.

Southampton are being sued by former players over the abuse they claim they suffered at the hands of Higgins -- who the Football League, the police and social services warned football clubs, schools and youth groups in 1989 that he was a danger to children.

"In the minibus on the way back from a game, I overheard players making sexual innuendos about Higgins," he told Sunsport.

"I knew then there was something wrong and told the manager (Chris Nicholl), 'We need to sort this

out. It's quite serious and you've got to let the board deal with it.'"

Nicholl told Merrington the matter had been reported to the police but then came back to him and said someone should talk to Higgins and he thought Merrington was best placed to do so.

"I spoke to Bob privately on my own," said Merrington.

"He got very annoyed when I said to him, 'Look I've got to tell you I'm not happy with what I've heard, the players making comments about you.

"He flew off the handle, got very annoyed and stormed out of the room.

"About two weeks later he left."

Mary Kom to return to 48kg category

Guwahati, December 9 (iaNS): Five-time World Champion boxer M.C. Mary Kom asserted on Friday that she aims to return to the 48 kg weight category amid speculation that it could be included in the Tokyo Olympics in 2020. The star boxer from Manipur had won all her world titles in women's 48kg division but had moved up to the women's 51kg category in order to compete at the Olympics. She had taken a bronze in her new weight class at the 2012 London Olympics but went empty handed at the Rio Olympics earlier this year. But with the International Boxing Federation (AIBA) reportedly thinking about including the 48kg division in the Tokyo Games, Mary is hoping to win an Olympic medal of a better hue.

"Yes, I am planning to go back to the 48kg weight category.

I am back as this is my real and original weight (category) in which I am fit to," Mary told IANS on Friday. The 33-yearold asserted that she is looking forward to recapturing her old form in the 48kg category and is aiming for glory at the Tokyo Olympics. "I will see. I am still very much fit and will be in the camp very soon," she said.

doping report: 'institutional conspiracy' in russia LoNDoN, December 9 (aP): A new report into systematic Russian doping details a wide-ranging "institutional conspiracy" that involved more than 1,000 athletes across more than 30 sports, including evidence corroborating large-scale sample swapping at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics. World Anti-Doping Agency investigator Richard McLaren said Friday the conspiracy involved the Russian Sports Ministry, national anti-doping agency and the FSB intelligence service, providing further of state involvement in a massive program of cheating and coverups. "It is impossible to know just how deep and how far back this conspiracy goes," McLaren said at a news conference in London. "For years, international sports competitions have unknowingly been hijacked by Russians.

Coaches and athletes have been playing on an uneven field. Sports fans and spectators have been deceived. It's time that this stops." McLaren said his conclusions were based on irrefutable forensic evidence, including DNA analysis proving that samples were swapped and other tests showing that doping bottles were opened.

The Canadian law professor's investigation found that 15 Russian medalists in Sochi had their doping bottles tampered with, including athletes who won four gold medals. Names were not given. McLaren also reported that Russia corrupted the 2012 London Olympics on an "unprecedented scale" but the full extent will "probably never be fully established."

No Russian athlete tested positive at the time of the games, but McLaren said the sports ministry gave athletes a "cocktail of steroids ... in order to beat the detection thresholds at the London lab." The findings confirmed and expanded on much of the evidence contained in McLaren's first report issued in July.

His first report led WADA to recommend that Russia be excluded from the Rio de Janeiro Olympics. The IOC rejected calls for an outright ban, allowing international federations to decide which Russian athletes could compete. McLaren's latest report will put pressure on the International Olympic Committee to take action ahead of the 2018 Winter Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea. His findings will be sent to the IOC, which has two commissions looking into the allegations. IOC President Thomas Bach has said stiff sanctions will be taken against any athletes and officials implicated in doping. He said he favors lifetime Olympic bans for anyone involved.

public discourse

A more beautiful place to live in

I

t is believed that Nagas have occupied Nagaland in the fourteenth century. Our fore-fathers made terrace on the fringes of mountains and hills for jhum cultivation. Terraces were made in the foothills and plain areas for paddy cultivation. They set aside thick forest areas of mountains and hills undisturbed. Thus, they practiced land use system since time immemorial and passed it to us. And many Naga villages hold fast to this system till today. Almost every Naga village has its forest area and the people lives on the cradle of nature, then.

Every Naga village was sovereign, independent as it is now having its own social set up, religion, culture, jurisdiction etc. Unless it was for the construction of village bridge, gate, dormitory bed, log drum, pounding table, wine drum etc., nobody went into the thick forest and fell trees out of greed. Thus they had a strong love of their forest wealth. It was their intention and consensus will to preserve, conserve and protect the forest of their country.

Since head hunting was a sport and trophy for them, then, most of the Naga villages were established on hill tops for safety and easy access of watching of attacking enemies from the village. They never sell out their forest land to the aggressors at the cost of war. They were self dependent and sufficient except for salt.

They travelled to outside world for trade and commerce for salt, thread, iron, ornaments, sea shells etc. and go to Assam, Sylhet (Bangaladesh), Culcutta, Bombay and to the extent of Sri. Lanka (Ceylon) all without the expense of their forest wealth.

Indeed, it is said that they produced garlic, some powders, spices and etc. and do

business.

At other times they work hard with their family. It was a pride, prestige and honour to offer feasts of merits freely to all villagers, relatives from neighbouring villages. In all feasts, festivals and religious rituals Nagas use wild banana leaves and other leaves as cups and wrappers for rice bear and meats respectively. They wore varieties of beautiful wild flowers on their head, headgears and earrings etc. Thus in many of their folk songs, love songs, ballads and poetry names of some particular place, trees, animals, birds, flowers, butterfly and stone are mentioned. With full enthusiasm girls with their boyfriends collects edible wild vegetables, brooms, decorative items during the day and freely distributed them to neighbours and relatives of both boys and girls partakers and old widowed/ widowers for use.

Such is a culture so sweet and beautiful that binds the society together for good was practiced then.

Nagas are fond of hunting and regard it as a sport. During dry seasons, festivals and gena days they go for hunting. All males of both young and old take part in this. Those hunters who killed wild animals like deer, rein-deer, boar, bear, porcupine, elephant and etc. never enjoy the flesh of his kill. His family, relatives and friends will have feast with his kill whereas he will be given to eat a bird or chicken provided freely by family or friends. Usually hunting was seasonal and for enjoyment only. The objective of hunting was not to exterminate any wild life species but for sport.

To be honest our present generation have already destroyed our forest and its habitations to a great extent. It is high time for us to conserve, protect

the remaining forests and vegetation for future generations. It is important to note that the forests and its habitats don’t belong to the present generation alone. Keeping this in view, some villages have already started community initiated nature conservation projects.

In order to strengthen, encourage and support this endeavour, Foundation for Ecological Security India & NEPED Nagaland had engineered and conducted series of consultative meetings at Mokokchung and Kohima and finally set up Nagaland Community Conserved Areas’ Forum (NCCAF) and officially launched it in their presence along with Forest Department Officials in the year 2015.

The main aim of NCCAF is to facilitate better co-ordination among members of Community Conserved Areas and to assists, support, encourage CCA’s promotion and development. The forum has been inviting CCA’s to join it and request other villages to start nature conservation programmes in their respective areas. Presently, around twenty CCA‘s have registered with NCCAF in Nagaland representing all districts except one district.

As land and its natural resources are the property of the public (i.e indigenous inhabitant tribes) of Nagaland let us rise up and revibrate Nagaland’s rich nature and its habitats by conserving and protecting it before it’s too late. So that conservation of natural resources i.e. flora and fauna of Nagaland attain greater heights. Then, Nagaland shall become a “More beautiful place” to live in.

Khriekhotuo Mor Chairman, Nagaland Community Conserved Area’s Forum, Kohima

A

on relevance

ssociations and Unions are interest groups. They are formed to protect and promote the interests of their members. But if members feel that the body is no longer addressing their concerns and/or promoting their interests, and the said association/union is no longer relevant to them; divisions arise that weaken the association/union; and, unless addressed, could lead to its eventual demise. We, in Nagaland have seen this happen in the case of the Naga Hoho. The Eastern Nagas were the first to feel their issues neglected, and broke away from the Hoho. And now, arising out of a perceived conflict of interest, we have seen the birth of the Nagaland Tribes Council and the Central Naga Tribes Council. Whether the Naga Hoho realises that the formation of the N.T.C and the C.N.T.C.; after the disassociation of the Eastern Nagas, is the sounding of its death knell, remains to be seen. As to how it can regain its former status is for those who formulate and drive its policies to decide.

Alongside the Naga Hoho, we have seen a near identical crisis arising in the Naga Students’ Federation. The students’ body has mirrored the Naga Hoho in that it has seen the Eastern Naga students break away; and it is for the present office bearers to decide whether it will follow in the footsteps of the Naga Hoho. They have to decide on whether to take up issues relevant to the problems students face on a daily basis and which affects their future; or whether to play to a larger audience.

I am extremely heartened that the N.S.F. has taken up the issue of Backdoor Appointments.

This issue is has a common denominator spanning tribal and individual barriers. It has found resonance with students and parents alike. It is only by taking up such issues, which have a direct bearing on the futures of all students, will the N.S.F. find its relevance in a society which has lost its moral compass. The Naga Hoho, the C.N.T.C., the N.T.C., etc, are bodies which have interests with emphasis on the present whereas the N.S.F. must have interests with emphasis on the future.

That fact that the N.S.F. has taken up the said issue shows a paradigm shift in its approach to the problems facing Nagaland; it is relevant to all students across Nagaland, and it seeks to address one of the many factors which are destroying the future of Nagaland.

But this is only the beginning of the road that the N.S.F. must travel. Nagaland has no lack of issues which need correcting. The call by the N.S.F. for a protest by students against the Armed Forces Special Powers Act was commendable, but not pressing; for other organisations and bodies had a more urgent need to address the A.F.S.P.A. What it needs to do is bring up the issues students and parents face day in and day out, year after year. The frequent change of the syllabus of the Matriculate exams by the Nagaland Board of School Education is one; the lack of uniformity in the prescribed text book from classes 1 to 8 is another; the sale of, and frequent change in uniform by many private schools is another; the sale of, not only text books, but also notebooks by the schools is another; the manipulation by the government of the reserved seats in the medical and technical branches of education is another. These are just some of the many examples of the exploitation of the students and parents by the authorities, both governmental and private, which spring to mind; but there are many more such issues.

If the present office bearers of the N.S.F. can bring to the fore relevant issues which affect every student, and in consequence, their parents; there is no reason why they cannot grow from strength to strength. And with their growth in strength, they will have been instrumental in saving an institution that was once a cornerstone of Naga Society; they may even induce our Eastern Naga Students to come back to the fold. A feat which will surely earn them a place in the history of Nagaland.

GOD SAVE MY NAGALAND Kahuto Chishi Sumi G.B. Hevishe Village, Dimapur

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.

Saturday 10•12•2016

EntErtainmEnt

A picture can destroy or create life Kid’s Carnival

competitions concludes

Morung express News

wong (Linje) while showcasing some of her images captured from India, China talked about the importance of composition, colour balance, perspective, the need to feel the emotions of the object.

Further impressing upon the need for planning in order to capture images, Tom viewed that every picture should tell a story and Tom Potisit Natwalee Aengsubwong asserted, “Everyone can tell profession which he views mentioning that most of a picture but not everyone is a ‘weapon to communi- his photography has been can tell a great story.”

IPR Director Limawati cate with the people’. done with extensive rehe Department of Information & Public Relain his opening remarks “It (photography) is search on the subject. tions will be doing live webcast of the grand fimentioned that in the last a way for me to pass on “As a photographer, it nale of the Hornbill Festival 2016 on December 10, what I believe in, to move doesn’t matter whether few years, many have taken 2016 at www.ipr.nagaland.gov.in people and to motivate you are involved in political an interest in Photography people. It is one of the arts or social issues, you have to and therefore the workshop of speaking,” said Potisit have ethics as well. If you aims to provide opportuniwho viewed that Photog- want to break the rules, you ties for the young enthuraphy being a channel to have to know all the rules siastic photographers in communicate, must come first.” said Tom who also Nagaland. The Hornbill from inspiration. pointed out that perfectly International Photography Highlighted the ba- positioned picture are not further aims to showcase sics of photography such the best pictures but the the artworks of Naga Phohe ongoing kid’s as caption, composition, best pictures are the ones tographers and also create carnival by Miitiikiawareness on the greater perspectives etc, Tom also taken candidly. ive Events has witstated that research is very 23 years old Photogra- things that can be achieved nessed its last four comimportant in photography, pher Natwalee Aengsub- in the future. petitions. In the essay competition Keretsolie of Mezhur Hr. Sec. School bagged the 1st position and won a cash prize of Rs 6000, second position was by Sochano Ezung of Model hr.

Sec. School with a cash Sumi couple at the Hornbill Festival at Kisama. (Morung Photo) prize of Rs 4000, sponsored

by Kudecho Khamo.

Under the photography competition Muchi Domeh of Vineyard school took the first place with a cash of Rs 6000 and second was by VilaThe Tug-of-war Hornbill competition 2016 concluded on 9th December 2016 which was participated by 15 tribes with zonuo Theinuo of G. Rio 8 members from each tribe playing best of 3 rounds. The final match was played between Yimchunger and Sumi tribe with Sumi tribe winning the first prize and getting awarded with an amount of Rs. 20,000/- and the second prize by Yim- hr sec school with a cash chunger tribe with a cash prize of Rs. 10,000. The prizes were given out by Director, Youth Resources, Asangla Imti. The of Rs 4000 sponsored by Ghokiye Achumi class 1 judges of the competition were Takedovo, Avikha, Kikhwesuiil, Megolhoy and Vizovol. (DIPR Photo)

“A

DIPR to webcast grand finale of Hornbill Festival

T

p i c t u re does not just tell a thousand words but a picture is a great weapon which can destroy life or create life,” said Thai Photographer Tom Potisit during the Hornbill International Photography workshop was held on December 9 at Hotel Ura, Kohima.

The workshop was jointly organised by Portrait Enterprise and the Directorate of Information and Public Relations (DIPR) and the resource persons for the workshop were Tom Potisit, Natwalee Aengsubwong (Linje) and Purimphat Nithiwadsopon from Thailand.

Tom Potisit who is a fashion photographer and extensively involved in social and environmental issues shared his personal experiences as a Photographer and his passion for the

T

contractor. In the song competition Bopu Lea of Don Bosco hr sec school bagged the 1st position with cash Prize of Rs 4000, second winner was Mankap Konyak of Govt. hr sec school Jotsoma with a cash of Rs 2000 sponsored by CIMORB. In the band competition held on December 9, the winner Distorted Theory of Vineyard School walked home with cash Prize of Rs 10,000. The Amplexus took the second place with a cash Prize of Rs 5000 sponsored by Vevo Sapu and Jack and Jill. The Miitiikiive Events proudly congratulates all the winners.

DIPR News

Now ShowiNg

Kuki couple at the Hornbill Festival at Kisama. (Morung Photo)

revIseD TICKeT rATes (silver) : `.120 (Gold) : `. 200 (recliner) : `. 400

Underworld Blood wars (english) Vivek Alva, the Managing Trustee, Alva’s Education Foundation was the guest of honour on December 9, 2016 at the Hornbill festival, Kisama. (DIPR Photo)

Tourist poses for camera with Konyak Nagas at the Hornbill Festival. (Morung Photo)

C M Y K

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Lotha couple at the Hornbill Festival at Kisama. (Morung Photo)

Sangtam tribe performs at the Hornbill Festival at Kisama. (Morung Photo)

The Waromong cultural troupe (Ao) performed the PongiMajen which is a rice stalk threshing game where harvest is a great time of joy for the farmers. It is a time when the stamping and threshing of the paddy by the men resembles a dance, a time to show off their strength. The women collect the grains to store in the granaries. The hardest task can turn into a happy fun filled activity. (DIPR Photo)

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Tourists at the Hornbill Festival at Kisama. (Morung Photo)

A Chakhesang man yells during the Hornbill festival at Kisama. (Morung Photo)

Angami youth at the Hornbill festival at Kisama. (Morung Photo)

Kachari cultural troupe at the Hornbill Festival at Kisama. (Morung Photo)

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11:00 am | 02:00 PM 05:00 PM | 08:00 PM Chang Nagas in traditional finery at the Hornbill festival at Kisama. (Morung Photo)

Kukis perform at the Hornbill festival at Kisama. (Morung Photo)

12

SATURDAY 10•12•2016

SPORTS

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

make strong start Mkhitaryan sparkles as Man India in reply to England's 400 United reach Europa last 32

Manchester United's Henrikh Mkhitaryan scores their first goal. (Reuters Photo)

danced through the heart of Europa League's knockLoNDoN, DeCember win over the Dutch side.

Premier League South- the defence to slot home his out stages were still up for 9 (reuters): Manchester United are warming ampton, however, were first goal for the club early in grabs and Serie A side Fiorentina added their name to the task in the Europa dumped out after a 1-1 the second half.

The Armenian, a con- to the list from Group J with League as they booked a draw at home to Hapoel spot in the last 32 with a 2-0 Beer Sheva that was stant thorn in Zorya's side, a 2-1 win in Qarabag on an win over Zorya Luhansk on enough to send the Israeli looks to have regained the eventful night for 19-yeara freezing night in Ukraine side into the next round as confidence that helped old midfielder Federico C him score 23 goals for Chiesa.

Group K runners-up. on Thursday.

M The son of former Italy United, who could now Dortmund in all compeGoals from Henrikh Mkhitaryan, who made a view the competition as their titions last season. "I was striker Enrico grabbed the Y mockery of his two-month best route into the Champi- waiting a long time for this winning goal, his first seK exile from the starting ons League with their Pre- goal," Mkhitaryan told BT nior strike, in the 76th minlineup with a superb indi- mier League form continu- Sport. "My next goal has to ute but was then dismissed vidual effort, and Zlatan ing to disappoint, needed be at Old Trafford because I following a second booking eight minutes later.

Ibrahimovic secured an only a draw to progress but want to score at home."

Hapoel needed a score Ibrahimovic netted easy win that banished never looked in danger of in the 88th minute after draw or better against memories of their earlier suffering an upset.

Mkhitar yan, who latching on to a Paul Pogba Southampton to go group stage struggles.

The victory confirmed joined United for 25 million through ball, his seventh through from a topsy-turvy group that had already seen goal in his last sixCompany games in Operating ($31.47 million) second place in pounds on: 5United AssaminRifles organised a friendly volleyball match between Base (COB) former European champiGroup A behind Turkish from Borussia Dortmund all competitions. e and side Chare Town Students on December ons Inter Milan eliminated. in the close season, may8. fiFenerbahce who end- Union Having barely threated Feyenoord's qualifica- nally have won over man- EVENTFUL NIGHT Eleven places in the ened all night, Hapoel took tion hopes with a 1-0 away ager Jose Mourinho after he

the lead through Maor Buzaglo's angled drive and although Virgil van Dijk claimed a stoppage-time equaliser, there was to be no late escape act from the Premier League team.

Fenerbahce required a point in Rotterdam to reach the last 32 and took all three to finish top of the standings.

Feyenoord needed to win by two goals but were undone in the 22nd minute when Moussa Sow found the net with a bicycle kick to continue his habit of producing acrobatic strikes following his overhead effort against United earlier in the group stage.

Villarreal progressed, ending the hopes of Steaua Bucharest, with a 2-1 triumph over the former European champions in Group L. Goals from Nicola Sansone and an 88th-minute winner from Manuel Trigueros, following Vlad Achim's leveller for Steaua, propelled the Spaniards to second place while the Romanians finished bottom.

Dundalk's hopes of becoming the first Irish side to grace the knockout stages of a European competition were dashed by a 2-1 defeat at Maccabi Tel Aviv in Group D where AZ Alkmaar beat Zenit St Petersburg 3-2 to join the Russians in the last 32.

The draw for the next round, when eight teams will drop into the competition from the Champions League, takes place on Monday.

Cheteshwar Pujara plays a shot. (Reuters Photo)

mumbai, DeCember 9 (reuters): Murali Vijay and Cheteshwar Pujara shared a century stand as India made a strong start in their reply to England's total of 400 on the second day of the fourth test at the Wankhede Stadium on Friday.

Vijay was unbeaten on 70 and Pujara on 47 not out with India on 146 for one at the close, still 254 runs behind.

The right-handed pair added 107 runs for the second wicket after Lokesh Rahul had fallen following an opening stand of 39 with Vijay. England captain Alastair Cook introduced spin from both ends after seven overs and there was considerable turn on offer for Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid.

Rahul hit four crisp boundaries in his 24 before off-spinner Moeen breached his defences to bowl him.

Vijay twice mis-hit Rashid but the ball landed safely beyond the reach of the fielders on both occasions. The opener hit the leg-spinner for six over the longoff boundary. Pujara looked solid and hit some sublime boundaries off the back foot against the England fast bowlers.

Earlier, Jos Buttler made 76 to guide the touring side, trailing 2-0 in the five-match

series, to a strong total before they were all out 25 minutes after lunch.

India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin completed figures of six for 112 for his 23rd five-wicket haul and left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja took the other four wickets.

Resuming on 288 for five, England lost Ben Stokes for 31 in the third over to Ashwin, who had picked up four wickets on Thursday. The umpire turned down the appeal for catch against Stokes but India managed to overturn the decision on review with the batsman leaving the field making his displeasure evident.

Jadeja dismissed Chris Woakes and Rashid cheaply to boost India's chances of keeping England's total to under 350.

But Buttler and number 10 Jake Ball, playing his first match of the series and second overall, frustrated India with a partnership of 54 for the ninth wicket.

Ashwin broke the stand when Ball, who was on nought when India captain Virat Kohli dropped a sharp chance at slip off Jadeja, was caught behind. Buttler repeatedly used the reverse sweep against Jadeja and hit six boundaries and a big six off Ashwin before Jadeja bowled him as he attempted another big shot.

SZYO 50th anniversary celebrations commences Kohima, DeCember 9 (mexN): The 50th anniversary celebration of Sechü Zubza Youth Organisation (SZYO) began on December 9 at WAPO ground, Sechü Zubza under the theme “Responding to challenges.”

The inaugural function was graced by Kiyanilie Peseyie, Minister for Social Welfare and Parliamentary Affairs, as the chief guest.

Peseyie advised the players to participate in games and sports with the true spirit of sportsmanship, while encouraging them to have the determination to excel 5 Assam Rifles organised a friendly volleyball match between Company Operating Base at the top.

Stating that games and (COB) Chare and Chare Town Students Union on December 8.

sports promote unity and friendship, he expressed hope that the 50th anniversary celebration will bring people closer. “May this celebration bring the people closer together,” he said, adding that it is time the youth stand united in responding to the challenges of our times.

Over 300 players from five colonies under Sechü Zubza, including Liezha ‘A’, Liezha ‘B’, Kherüthi ‘A’, Kherüthi ‘B’ and Tsurü are participating in the sevenday event. Sporting activities will conclude on December 14 while the event will culminate along with the 50th anniversary of

Minister for Social Welfare, Kiyanilie Peseyie being received during the inaugural function of the SZYO 50th anniversary celebration at WAPO ground, Sechü Zubza on December 9.

SZYO on December 15. events.

The tournament will The administration have competitions in ath- of oath to the players was letics, games and cultural led by Peleselhou Sirie,

Games & Sports Secretary, SZYO, while ‘Voices from the hills’ sang the village theme song.

Bulls send Spurs to first road loss of season 54th PSA Meet underway ChiCago, DeCember 9 (aFP): The San Antonio Spurs suffered their first road loss of the season, as the Chicago Bulls led wireto-wire en route to a 9591 victory that snapped a three-game skid.

The Spurs needed just one more road win to tie the NBA record of 14 straight road victories to start a season, set by the Golden State Warriors last season.

But they failed to fire against a struggling team and coach Gregg Popovich was livid that they couldn't deliver in front of a crowd of 21,400 at United Center arena.

"I don't remember playing tonight. The guys get a lot of money to get ready to play," said Popovich of the Spurs.

"No Knute Rockne speeches. It is your job. If you are a plumber and you don't do your job, then you don't get any work. If you are a doctor and you botch operations you are not a doctor anymore.

"If you are a basketball player you come ready."

Veteran Dwayne Wade, who left Miami in the offseason to return home to Chicago after the Heat gave up on him, led the Bulls Thursday with 19 points.

Rajon Rondo finished

Rajon Rondo of the Chicago Bulls moves against Tony Parker of the San Antonio Spurs at the United Center in Chicago (AFP Photo)

an assist short of a tripledouble with 12 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists.

Jimmy Butler, who'd scored at least 20 points in his previous 15 games, added 13 -all in the second half.

Taj Gibson and Robin Lopez each had 12 for the Bulls, who led by as much as 18 points in the third quarter and fended off

strong San Antonio comeback attempt in the fourth.

"We needed a win," said Wade. "When you're out there playing, you're not thinking about how this team's on a roll on the road. You're just thinking about getting the win.

"That's a very good team, of course, but tonight was about us finding a way

to get a win here at home."

Kawhi Leonard led the Spurs and all scorers with 24 points, Patty Mills added 16 points and Pau Gasol had a double-double (13 points, 10 rebounds) in his return to Chicago after leaving via free agency in the offseason.

"Because of our talent and quality of play, we are

able to make up ground.

Tonight we were down (18) and were able to make up some ground, but in the end it wasn't enough," said Gasol.

- Sixers snap road losing streak In New Orleans, Dario Saric scored eight consecutive points in a decisive fourth-quarter charge and Ersan Ilyasova had a teamhigh 23 points as the Philadelphia 76ers snapped a 23-game road losing streak with a 99-88 win over the New Orleans Pelicans.

The Sixers entered the game with the NBA's worst record, but they had five players in double figures, comprising Ilyasova, guard Sergio Rodriquez (16), Joel Embiid (14) and Nik Stauskas (14), and Saric with 13.

The Pelicans lost their fourth straight game despite Anthony Davis' 26 points and 11 rebounds.

Guard Langston Galloway also scored in double figures for the Pelicans with 19 points.

In Salt Lake City, Stephen Curry scored 26 points and Kevin Durant added 21, including 11 in fourth quarter, to help Golden State hold off a late rally and defeat the Utah Jazz 106-99.

MLA Azo Nienu and others during the inaugural function of Phek Sports Association (PSA) 54th Meet at Phek village. (Morung Photo) Our Correspondent Phek | December 9

The 54th Meet of the Phek Sports Association (PSA) got underway today at Phek village, with MLA Kuzholuzo (Azo) Nienu inaugurating the meet.

The week long meet will be marked by athletics, football (for both men and women), volleyball (men and women) and basketball (men and women).

Addressing the inaugural function, Nienu called upon the participants to maintain discipline, punctuality and commitment to excel in the field of games and sports.

Opining that there are too many professions and that many are confused as to

which profession one should take up, Nienu stressed on the need to take the right choice to succeed in life.

He also stressed on the need to upgrade state level/inter district sports meet so as to enable local sportspersons to compete with others at the national and international level.

Earlier, the inaugural function was chaired by Khoshepa Vero while PSA president Vethita Keyho delivered presidential address. PSA games & sports secretary Chotha Soho administered oath to the participating teams.

The meet will go on till December 16 with Besupra Swuro, General Secretary Naga People’s Front (NPF) Nagaland as the guest of honour.

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