February 16th, 2015

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The Morung Express

Dimapur Vol. X issuE 44

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“

India can lead fight against global warming: Modi [ PAGE 8]

reflections

By Sandemo Ngullie

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Joy, not grit, is the hallmark of holy obedience Shraddha in Forbes India’s 30 most successful young achievers [ PAGE 11]

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Monday, February 16, 2015 12 pages Rs. 4 –Richard Foster

Give political will to fight against HIV/AIDS: CM

Kohli ton helps India extend streak to 6 wins [ PAGE 2] Ukraine Cease-fire - both vs Pakistan in World Cups sides claim violations [ PAGE 9]

[ PAGE 12]

A question of talent or lack of support?

Woeful performance at National Games paints grim scenario of sports in Nagaland Morung Express news

Nagaland’s medal tally at the National Games (1999-2015)

Dimapur | February 15

The 35th Indian National games concluded on February 14 at Thiruvananthapuram with fanfare and pomp. Hosts Kerala finished second to Services at the final medal tally look at this, a letter signed (54 gold, 48 silver, and 60 by the HoD certifying that bronze medals, compared to Services’ 91-33-35). fake id is indeed authentic.

Overall, there were 1363 The Morung Express medals to be won in 28 disNagaland state Poll QuEsTion ciplines. however was nowhere in taVote on www.morungexpress.com ble with a below par perforSMS your anSwer to 9862574165 mance. Nagaland took part in 6 disciplines viz. Archery, Are Naga people’s possessiveness over their Athletics, Boxing, Shoothistory, selective memory ing, Wrestling, and Yacht- naga athletes participate in a local sports meet in nagaland. Despite the massive enthusiasm for sports and continuous of past glories and past ing. But the state came away talk of ‘potential talent,’ the state continues to underperform in national events. (Morung File Photo) traumas hampering with zero medals. peaceful co-existence? our state performing at var- like Nagaland could not various national events.

Talent and ious disciplines, we should even produce a state team Nagaland was not even in Right technique Consistent Yes no others “Talent alone cannot do start at the grass root lev- this National games. The quota for shooting, but forNon-performance Do you agree with NSF that The state’s perfor- the tricks, it needs constant el. At the age of 20, we are state never qualifies for the tunately with the interventhe Non-Detention Policy mance this year was not a polishing and hard work teaching them basics. If Santosh Trophy as well, tion of NOA, we were given does not suit the Nagas at this very juncture? big surprise as it has been from both the player and the foundation is laid well at states Meren Paul, when a chance by NRAI,” he inYes consistently underper- coaches,” maintains T Me- the basic level, if there is asked about the surprise forms.

83% Regarding the admin08% forming at the games since ren Paul, Secretary General some detour along the way, non-participation in footno their inception. Over the of the Nagaland Olympic As- the players can revert back, ball. He however attributes istration of sports, Mero 09% others it to the lack of infrastruc- says that while differlast two decades, the medal sociation. He points out that but not at that age.”

Details on page 7 Ruing that talent scout- ture. “Aizawl alone has six ent coaches take players tally for Nagaland adds up the state is seriously lacking to 13 in 6 National Games, such a regimen. “Step by ing is scantly done at the football fields and 2-3 As- to the National Games, which includes 1 gold, 1 sil- step development of talent is grass root level, Meren Paul tro turfs. When the central in Nagaland, everyone ver and 11 bronze medals missing in the state.” “In the maintains that such steps government sanctioned seems to have the same discipline of Boxing where should be done when poten- one astro turf for Nagaland, set of players. Likewise, (see box).

What could be the rea- I belong, to give a real fight, tial athletes are at 9-12 years, it was given to Jalukie. For Paul questions the logic of son behind such under- at least 3 month practice is and not 14-15 years. At 14- me, it does not make sense having the same coach for JAIPUR, FEBRUARY 15 performance despite the needed, but due of several 15, he says that children have when the football academy the juniors, sub-juniors (PTI): Eleven more perfactors, only a token coach- already developed a style of is located in Dimapur,” he and the seniors, adding sons have succumbed to talk of ‘potential talent’? ing for 10—15 days is under- their own, which is difficult adds. that the level of coaching In a poll conducted by The swine flu in different parts suffers from lack of esMerang Jamir, proprito change.

“Right practice, taken, ” he laments.

Morung Express poll last of Rajasthan, taking the toll “How can we win med- not regular practice makes a etor of Aries Rifle and Pistol tablished coaches both due to the H1N1 virus in the year (September 15), 68 Shooting Academy and a within and from outside. state to 153 this year. A se- percent of the respondents als if we undertake token person perfect”,he says. participant at the National “If the teacher’s handwritnior official of Medical and faulted the government for participation and lack proHealth Directorate said not doing enough to sup- fessional training,” answers Infrastructure and ad- games in shooting rues the ing is good, good student lack of infrastructure. “We will copy.” He advocates today that while three per- port and facilitate sports in Colo Mero, Director of Life ministration A football crazy state have to fund ourselves at sending “good players” for Sports. “If we wish to see sons each died of swine flu the state. in Jaipur and Jodhpur, two died in Ajmer, and one each in Nagaur, Bharatpur and Kota. While 33 districts in the state have been afflicted with swine flu, eight disToRoNTo, FEBRUARY tricts of Sawaimadhopur, 15 (IANS): Type 2 diabetes Dholpur, Sirohi, Jalore, Bareduces quality of life and ran, Jhalawar, Pratpagarh, NEW DELHI, FEBRU- km of the road work, leav- NEW DELHI, FEBRUARY 15 (IANS): As a conse- researchers have now found quence of recent volatility of international crude oil and Rajsamand have not ARY 15 (TNN): India’s “Act ing close to 30 km undone. that it may also decrease reported any mortality due East” policy may take a seAs part of the Kaladan prices, state-run Indian Oil Corp Sunday hiked rates certain cognitive abilities, to H1N1. Out of the 2167 rious hit, as New Delhi has project, India is building of transport fuels effective from midnight. Accord- known as executive funcpatients testing positive for unilaterally extended the Sittwe Port on BOT (build, ingly, the price of petrol will increase by 82 paise per tions. Type 2 diabetes is asthe virus, 153 have died in deadline for its connectivity operate and transfer) basis. litre, while that of diesel will go up by 61 paise per litre sociated with bad perforthe state this year, he said. projects in Myanmar from It is supposed to build jet- from Monday. “There has been a steep increase in inSo far, Jaipur has reported 2016 to 2019, a clear sign that ties at Paletwa (in Myan- ternational prices of both petrol and diesel and the ru- mance on cognitive tests, 26 deaths due to the H1N1 despite tall claims it just can- mar) on the Kaladan river. pee-dollar exchange rate has also depreciated slightly measuring abilities involved virus, maximum in the not deliver on the ground.

India has also offered to since the last price revision,” IOC said in a statement in the control of emotions, state, followed by Ajmer India is responsible for upgrade Chaungma-Yin- here. Fuel prices were last revised Feb 3 when petrol behaviour and thought, the 24, Jodhpur 16, Barmer two big projects — Kaladan mabin section in Myanmar was made cheaper by Rs.2.42 per litre and diesel price findings showed.

“This facet of brain and Nagaur 13 each, Kota multi-modal transport as well as the Yinmabin- was also lowered by Rs 2.25 per litre. The Indian basket function is particularly 9, Chittorgarh 7, Banswara project and India-Myan- Pale-Lingdaw section. of crude oil recently re-crossed $50 a barrel level and These projects were In- traded Thursday at $55.19 after having plunged to near important because we rely 6, and five elsewhere in the mar-Thailand trilateral highway. Both projects, dia’s showpiece initiatives six-year lows of $43 last month. This is the first upward on it when we are attemptstate since January. controlled by MEA, have which blended the Indian ing to behave in a way that fallen behind schedule government’s mantras of revision in the price of petrol since August 2014, and is contrary to our natural drastically. This despite “connectivity” and the big- also the first in case of diesel since it became market- inclinations or what the the projects being India’s ger strategic vision to bal- priced from October last. environment impels us to opportunity to show that ance Chinese power. China it was putting its Look/Act has, meanwhile, powered East policy on an overdrive. ahead, building connecVATICAN CITY, FEBOn the trilateral high- tions throughout southRUARY 15 (AP): Pope way, India has committed east Asia to integrate it Francis has exhorted 20 to construct and upgrade more closely to the Chinese new cardinals to reach out about 70 bridges on the growth engine. India is way Morung Express news February 14. Subsequent square near where the DC’s to all those who have been Tamu-Kyigone-Kalewa behind, but there was the to the arrest, police further office is located. The mob Dimapur | February 15 shunned, physically or road section and upgrade hope that it would push its recovered one 12” bore gun then put to siege the office spiritually, by the church or Kalewa-Yargyi stretch. system to catch up. That may Tuensang remained calm alongwith ammunition and official residence of society. Celebrating Mass While the Thais have com- not happen as quickly as the on Sunday but apprehen- and explosives detonators, the DC. The siege lasted for in St. Peter’s Basilica Sun- pleted their part of the work, government imagines. sion prevailed in the air as which reportedly belonged nearly an hour before it was day with those he installed and even the Burmese have In his opening state- the district administration to the arrested individuals. brought under control. The as cardinals a day earlier, made significant progress, ment at the 12th ASEAN relaxed curfew from 9:00 While a case Francis told them that, to- India is lagging behind. summit in Myanmar last am to 12:30 pm to allow has been regisgether, their mission must The government has November, Prime Minister Sunday mass. Following tered, the police be one of “welcoming,” and taken refuge under the ex- Narendra Modi rebadged recurrence of trouble the said that efforts of “rolling up our sleeves cuse that MEA’s budget has India’s old “Look East” day before, the police and are on to arrest and not standing by and been chopped in the past policy, saying, “My governthe para-military have in- more people watching passively the suf- couple of years. ment has been in office for tensified patrolling, while suspected of fering of the world.” He told A bigger problem in- six months and the intenthe red-hatted “princes of volves interministerial sity and (the) momentum strictly enforcing prohibi- involvement in DC was out on official duty the church,” whose tasks coordination which has with which we have en- tory orders promulgated the killing.

The victim was shot, as at the time, it was informed. include electing pontiffs, slipped up. These criti- hanced our engagement under Cr.PC section 144.

As directed by the disthat “the way of the Church cal projects have all been in the east, is a reflection of No less than 8 companies of according to the police, a is not to condemn anyone brought under a newly cre- the priority that we give to the NAP (IR) assisted by the few empty cases of AK and trict administration, the for eternity.” He urged them ated development part- this region ... A new era of Assam Rifles are deployed SLR weapons were recov- police said that it has im“to go out in search of those nership department in the economic development, in the district at present, the ered from the site where the pounded several personbody was found. al (licensed) weapons as who are distant, those on MEA. The trilateral high- industrialization and trade Tuensang police said.

Following the discovery a pre-emptive measure.

It was informed that the outskirts.” Elected pope way starts from Moreh in has begun in India. Exterin 2013, Francis has sought Manipur and ends at Mae nally, India’s ‘Look East 9 people were arrested in of the death, an irate mob While not disclosing the to make church hierarchy Sot in Thailand. India has Policy’ has become ‘Act connection with the kill- took custody of the body number of guns impoundcompleted a little over 132 East’ policy,” Modi said. ing of a 15 year-old boy on and assembled at the town ed, the police said that less judgmental.

11 more succumb to swine flu in Raj, toll jumps to 153

india failing to walk the ‘Act east’ talk

Pope to new cardinals: practice compassion, be open to all

Year/ Venue 1999- Imphal, Manipur 2001- Ludhiana, Punjab 2002- Hyderabad, AP 2007- Guwahati, Assam 2011- Ranchi, Jharkhand 2015- Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala coaching in the National Institute of Sports, located at Patiala.

Paul was also critical of the underfunding of sports in Nagaland. For instance, Paul informs that players in Nagaland receive an allowance of Rs 150 per day for dietary supplements, while those in academies run by the Sports Authority of India are paid Rs 350 per day. “The Manipur or Mizoram state governments are approximately giving 15-16 lakhs per annum to every association, but we hardly get 2-3 laks per annum,” he adds.

Except for the joy of participating, there is no aspiration and they are not supported well, says Mero.

If the government does not show any support, the player loses enthusiasm, adds Merang Jamir.

Can we ever compete?

Yudang Ao, Managing Partner, 442 Management, in an interview to this paper last year said, “My general perception about sports affairs is that there is no sports policy or set goals put forth in the State and without having any

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clear cut agenda on how sports policies should be structured. As of now, it’s only the individual athletes that are striving to achieve certain goals with their career but without any infrastructure or facilities to support the athletes, less than 5 percent make it to a certain level.”

Meren Paul calls for revamping the state’s sports department. “Being a technical department, a progressive policy is needed and competent people with good governance practice should run the system.” The Nagaland Olympics Association, along with sport department and experts, had jointly drafted a sport policy which was approved three years back.

However practical implementation of the policy is not visible, adds Paul.

Merang Jamir meanwhile wants people from their respective disciplines to be included into associations constituted to focus on specific disciplines.

Expressing optimism, Colo Mero however asserts that sportspersons from Nagaland can achieve a lot, given the right support.

Petrol price hiked by 82 Diabetes may damage your brain do,” said lead author Corrie Approximately 600 milpaise, diesel by 61 paise Vincent from the Univer- lion people live with type 2 sity of Waterloo in Canada.

The researchers reviewed 60 studies, comparing 9,815 individuals with type 2 diabetes to 69,254 controls without it and examined their performance on measures of executive function.

“Essentially people with type 2 diabetes may be hit with the double whammy of having more need for executive control but - possibly because of the disease’s effect on the brain - less intact resources for exerting it,” senior author Peter Hall, professor at the University of Waterloo, added.

diabetes worldwide, with nearly 800 million cases expected by 2030, making it one of the greatest global health concerns of modern times. “Fortunately, there are a few things that can help optimise the brain structures that support executive function,” Hall said.

“Aerobic exercise and cognitively challenging activities - such as learning new things, solving difficult puzzles and other problem solving activities - all help to keep your brain sharp,” said Hall. The study appeared in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine.

Tuensang quiet but tension remains unlicensed guns were also among the weapons seized.

While the curfew (assembly of no more than three people) will remain enforced, it will not affect the ongoing HSLC and HSSLC examinations. It was informed that exam centres will be allowed to open.

Meanwhile, the Nagaland state government has appealed for calm. The State Government, through a DIPR release, stated, “Despite the best efforts of the State Government, civil societies and NGOs to contain the unwanted situation in Tuensang District and restore peace and

• Nine arrested in connection with February 14 killing • Nagaland government appeals for calm & restraint

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normalcy, the situation is still tense and uncertain.”

It added that the situation is also not helped by the spread of rumours and unconfirmed reports of incidents, which may further aggravate matters. “The Government therefore appeals to all concerned for calm and restraint and not to spread rumours and utterances of communal or provocative statements.”

It further requested the media to be sensitive to the issue and to confirm all reports from the authority in concern before publication. “Incidents and statements of individuals or organizations of communal or provocative natures may also be avoided in the interest of public peace in the concerned district.”

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Dimapur

Monday

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16 February 2015

The Morung Express C

Give political will to fight One Billion Rising: Campaign to end against HIV/AIDS: CM violence against women & girls

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In Dimapur, young people pledge to break the silence and join the global campaign

Our Correspondent Kohima | February 15

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Chief Minister of Nagaland TR Zeliang has appealed to all the legislators to give political will and leadership to the fight against HIV/AIDS till the battle is completely won. The Chief Minister also acknowledged the collective efforts which have led to gradual decline in the incidence of fresh cases of HIV/AIDS in Nagaland.

“However, this does not mean that we can let our guards down. It should rather give us fresh motivation to further intensify our fight against the most dreaded disease, and to push on the fight till the disease is completely subdued and eliminated from our society,” Zeliang stated in his message in the latest newsletter of Legislators’ Forum on AIDS (LFA) Nagaland.

He stated that another

equally important aspect in the fight against HIV AIDS is the removal or the social stigma associated with the disease, and giving all necessary support to the people affected by AIDS, especially the children living with AIDS. “This is our social and moral obligation. This line of action will also help in preventing its further spread to other people, as removal of the social stigma, and the secrecy about HIV/ AIDS will facilitate early detection and prevention of its spread amongst unsuspecting people,” he stated.

He further noted that the LFA Nagaland has done commendably well in the fight against HIV/ AIDS by giving the required political leadership and by contributing substantial financial support through the LADP fund.

“LFA has entered the year 2015 which is the con-

cluding year of political declaration on HIV and AIDS with UNAIDS vision of the “Three Zeros” envisaging shared responsibility, strengthening multisectoral coordination, promoting comprehensive responses to AIDS through integrating prevention, treatment, care and support in order to render an AIDS-Free Generation as the Global Goal by the end of 2015,” stated Dr. Vinito L. Chishi, state consultant, LFA Nagaland.

He stated that LFA has so far covered all the 11 districts including sub-districts and many villages. In all the awareness and advocacy campaigns, different strategies were adopted in close partnership with Nagaland State AIDS Control Society (NSACS). As a result, the prevalence rate of HIV infection has lowered down to 0.73%, it was informed.

Dimapur, February 15 (mexN): As part of the One Billion Rising (OBR) global campaign that calls for action to end Violence against Women & Girls (VAW), the North East Network (NEN) Nagaland with Young Indians of Patkai Christian College (PCC) organised a rising event on the theme ‘Revolution for Love, Peace & Equality’ at Bundrock Chapal Hall, PCC Chumukedima, on February 14. Around 300 young people attended the event which was held to raise local awareness on a global issue, and extend solidarity to women and men who are part of the OBR campaign in ending VAW, informed a press release.

K. Ela, Director of Prodigals Home, Dimapur in her solidarity message highlighted that cases of violence against women and girls in Nagaland that get reported in the news is just the tip of an ice-berg because not many cases get reported in news or in police stations. She pointed that the silence and the indifferent attitude of the people towards issue of

Young people participate in signature campaign during the One Billion Rising event held at Patkai Christian College on February 14.

VAW perpetuates VAW, and that societal attitude of blaming and stigmatizing the victim instead of extending support must stop. While challenging the young men to respect women, and the young women to be aware of their rights and confidently assert their rights, Ela urged all the participants to break the silence, raise their voice and act to end VAW. Seno Tsuhah from NEN, in her note of ‘call to action’ asserted, “We are humans before we are Christians, Muslims, Hindus. We are

humans before we are rich or poor. We are humans before we are a man or a woman. And as humans, we all have a right to love, peace and equality.” Stating that real women and men do not fear equality and peace, she challenged all women and men to rise up and say no to VAW, and to be the change they want to see.

Informing that One Billion Raising is the biggest mass action to end VAW in human history, the release said it was a call for action to the staggering statistic

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Dimapur, February 15 (mexN): The Dimapur Phom Union (DPU) has formed an Organising Committee for the upcoming Phom festival, Monyü. The Union, during its meeting held on February 1 formed the committee with Manlang Phom as Convenor and Philip Buchem as Member Secretary. A press release informed that “DPU in its first kind will be hosting the annual Phom Monyü on 2nd April 2015 for all the Phom community of Dimapur at Dimapur town.”

Dimapur, February 15 (mexN): The Baptist Youth Fellowship Dimapur (BYFD) is conducting a fellowship with the youth directors of Dimapur area Baptist churches on February 16, 3:00 pm at Elim hall, DABA Office complex, Duncan Basti. Therefore, Imnatoshi Longkumer, BYFD president has requested all the youth directors to attend the fellowship without fail.

Christian College concluded with a signature campaign where all participants signed their names pledging to “Break the silence and Join the Campaign in ending Violence against Women & Girls.”

Meanwhile, “bold, colourful and varied performances” by talented young musicians and dance crews from PCC campus, Dimapur, Kohima and Mokokchung marked the event.

The release also mentioned that OBR events took place in more than 200 countries.

Hospital and CHC in Peren dist evaluated

Dimapur Phom Union informs

Fellowship with youth directors of Baptist churches

that 1 in every 3 women on the planet will be beaten and raped in her lifetime.

Launched on February 14, Valentine’s Day, people across the world came together to express their outrage, strike, dance and RISE in defiance of the injustices women suffer, demanding an end to all forms of VAW, and highlighted the impunity that lives at the intersection of poverty, racism, war, plunder of environment, capitalism, imperialism and patriarchy, the note added.

The event in Patkai

Officials from medical department of Peren monitoring the OT room at District Hospital Peren.

Old Peren village celebrated the five-day Hega festival, one of the most important yearly festivals of the Zeliangs, from February 10 to 14. Seen here are (L) men performing dance during the festival and (R) young boys taking part in the traditional wrestling. (Photo courtesy: Heutinggumbe)

Naga folk song, music & more at Nagaland Festival in Mumbai

Dimapur, February 15 (mexN): The second and final round of meeting for the upcoming Nagaland Festival was held on February 14. The festival is scheduled to be held on February 21 at Kavi Kusumagraj Marathi Bhasha Bhavan Hall, University of Mumbai Campus, Mumbai from 4:00 pm onwards. The Governor of Nagaland will grace the event as chief guest.

The event, which will showcase authentic Naga folk songs, folk music and a fashion show, will be

action-packed with many known faces from Nagaland who have established themselves in their respective backgrounds, according to a press release. It stated that much effort has been made in the preparation of the event as various Naga professionals, residing in Mumbai, have set their minds to make it a grand one.

Stating that Nagaland Festival is on its way to set an impression on the curious visitors’ mind about the exotic Naga culture, the release said, visitors will gain much infor-

mation on what to expect when they actually visit Nagaland.

The event will be hosted by Rozelle Mero, who is an established entrepreneur from Nagaland. Some of the highlights of the event include performances by Alobo Naga and the Band and a fashion show by Bambi Kevichusa. Everyone is welcome in this free cultural event.

The organisers added, “Nagaland, like many other states, is faced with several issues in spite of the rich culture and tradition. One

pereN, February 15 (mexN): Officials from the medical department of Peren district visited Community Health Center (CHC), Jalukie and District Hospital Peren for monitoring and evaluation recently. Chief Medical Officer Dr. Ngangshimeren and District Program Officer (RCH/UIP), Dr. Khrielasanuo visited CHC, Jalukie on February 12 and District Hospital Peren on February 13.

The monitoring team had a meeting with the Medical Superintendent, Senior Medical Officers, Medical Officers and Sisters in-charge, informed a press release issued by District Media Officer, CMO Office, Peren.

During the visit, the team monitored and supervised various fields such as manpower status, physical infrastructure, equipments, essential drugs and supplies, quality parameter of the facility, records/registers maintenance, service delivery, functioning of Village Health Committee, display of charts/ banners/ posters map indicating village/ habitat, AWC, ASHA and places of importance under the jurisdiction of the health unit. Meanwhile, the team provided inputs in upgrading the services provided to the people. The team also voiced out certain gaps that need to be cross checked, it was informed.

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of these issues is the decrease and lack of frequent flights to Nagaland due to various reasons.” Therefore, the organisers have requested the Government of Nagaland to exempt the VAT on ATF (Aviation Turbine Fuel) as this will help the aviation sector to bring in more flight.

Presently, Meghalaya and Bagdogra have Zero VAT on ATF, and as a result, the frequency of flights has increased, it said.

District Anti-tobacco Squad attend training For more information visit: www.nagalandfestival.com.

Dimapur, February 15 (mexN): Training for officers of District Anti-tobacco Squad (DATS), Dimapur was held in SP conference Hall on February 13. Tsenpamo Kikon, Reserve DSP and Team Leader of Anti Tobacco Squad chaired the meeting. Dr Imchameren, Deputy Chief Medical Officer exhorted the officers to implement the COTPA 2003 for the good of the young generation.

Dr C Tetseo, District Nodal Officer talked on the prevailing tobacco scenario in Dimapur District. YT Sangtam, Public Prosecutor, Dimapur talked on implementation of Section 4, 5, 6 and 7 of COTPA 2003. He also encouraged the officers to act fearlessly stating the law is on their side.

He also pointed out that many schools and shops are not complying with provision and asked the officers to take action against them from now on.

‘Youths have the potential to make India different’

Five-day National Integration Camp held in Dimapur

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Dimapur, February 15 (mexN): Nehru Yuva Kendra (NYK), Dimapur conducted National Integration Camp at North East Zone Cultural Centre (NEZCC) in Dimapur from February 10 to 14, which was attended by youths from the states of Assam, Manipur, Uttar Pradesh, and Nagaland.

The valedictory function was graced by Rev. Fr. Anto, Director of Peace Channel in Dimapur. Rev. Fr. Anto opined that diversity in India is an asset, not a liability. Pointing out that India has the largest youth population in the world, he said, the youths have the potential to make India different. “If the Indian youth are trained and capacitated, then India can

shine. Youth are the thinkers, builders and connectors and if they are trained and capacitated then there will be change in the families and societies,” he stated. “When USA and Europe were under economic recession, India was not affected so much because Indian youth were trained and capacitated and it kept India unshaken.”

Meanwhile, focusing on communal harmony, he said people worship different Gods, but ultimately everyone belongs to one family. “The whole world belongs to one humanity.

Then, why do we fight because of religion?” He further asked the youths to be vanguards of communal forces and called upon them to be the change they want to see.

A press release further informed that various competitions like Best Cultural Songs and Dances, Know India Quiz, and Best Dis-

cipline Troupe were held during the camp. In know India quiz, first prize was won by NYK, Nagaland, second by NYK, Manipur, and third by NYK, Assam.

The Best Discipline Troupe went to NYK, Assam and the Best Cultural Songs and Dances award went to NYK, Manipur. Meanwhile, the Best Youth Club award in district level was given to Peace Channel, Dimapur; the award carried a cash prize of Rs. 25000/and citation.

The highlights of the National Integration Camp included cultural extravaganza, seminars, visit to historic places, hospital, Zological Park, Bamboo Mission Centre, and market for shopping. The main resource persons who animated the programme were Liangsi Niumai, Director, CCerp, Dimapur; Martin and Judith from Peace Channel; Jengpu from CAN youth, Dima-

Training held on RCH in Zbto

Dance performed during the National Integration Camp held at NEZCC from February 10-14.

pur, Lawrence, and John Makhabo, the release said.

The valedictory function was chaired by Vi-

sakuolie, while welcome address was given by John Makhabo, District Youth Coordinator, NYK, Dima-

pur, invocation prayer was said by Lanthuilu and vote of thanks pronounced by Ruokuovikho Chale.

ZuNheboto, February 15 (mexN): District Health Society, Zunheboto conducted training for Medical Officers, BPMs, BAMs, GNMs, Pharmacists, ANMs and ASHA coordinators on integrated RCH register on February 10 at Youth Hall, Zunheboto. Dr. Alemwabang Aier, DPO (RCH& UIP), one of the resource persons, trained the participants on how to maintain integrated RCH register. He also spoke on the importance and benefits of the new integrated RCH register and instructed the participants to follow up on the same. He also urged the SMOs, MOs, BPMs, GNMs, ANMs, BAMs and ASHA Coordinators to assist the health workers in their respective blocks. Meanwhile, Avikali Jimo, DPM, trained the participants on entry of tracking of eligible couples, pregnant mothers and tracking of children. Dr. G Hokishe, Chief Medical Officer, Zunheboto in his welcome address urged the health workers to be sincere and encouraged them to perform for good health care delivery system.

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REgional

The Morung Express

Monday

16 February 2015

Dimapur

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India, Bhutan join hands to save black-necked crane Itanagar: Described by environmentalists as a symbol of the "cultural identity of the Himalayan ecosystem", the blacknecked crane is facing a grim battle for survival now prompting experts in India and Bhutan to call for regional cooperation for the conservation of the species.

In order to discuss the current status and conservation measures related to the black-necked crane, a two-day Indo- Bhutan workshop on the species was organised from February 9 at Dirang in Arunachal Pradesh's West Kameng district which, incidentally, is also one of the wintering sites of the bird.

The workshop was organised by WWF-India in collaboration with the state's forest department and was attended by experts from India and Bhutan and community conservationists from Zemithang and Sangti valleys of Arunachal Pradesh.

The experts recommended joint conservation of the species by India and Bhutan at the landscape

Black necked crane. (File Photo)

level, site-specific conservation measures to be taken by the respective national government under the regional black-neck crane conservation framework and regional-level policy and advocacy for the protection of the species.

There were also calls for strong community-based conservation in black-necked crane habitats and regular monitoring with the experts saying that the species should be promoted as a cultural symbol of the Himalayan region.

The experts deliberated on a range of issues, including the current status of the species at all the key crane habitats in India and Bhutan.

Presentations were made on the current status and conservation issues related to the black-necked

crane in Jammu and Kashmir, Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim. The experts from Bhutan talked about a range of issues related to the conservation of the species in their country.

"There is a need to enhance the understanding of the impact of anthropogenic pressures and climate change on blacknecked crane habitats and populations in the Indo-Bhutan region," observed Tshering Phuntsho from the Royal Society for the Protection of Nature (RSPN) of Bhutan.

Said workshop coordinator Pankaj Chandan, who is the head of the Western Himalayan Landscape of WWF-India, "This initiative is to protect and promote the black-necked crane as a symbol of the cultural identity of the Himalayan mountain ecosystems."

In the concluding session of the workshop, delegates from Bhutan and India jointly agreed that the country-specific conservation measures should be synergised so as to protect black-necked crane habitat

as part of a trans-boundary conservation initiative.

S A Hussain, senior scientist at the Wildlife Institute of India, made a presentation on the migration studies on this species in India with Dr Sherub from Bhutan making a presentation on the corresponding studies in his country, a release said.

Kamal Medhi, coordinator of the Western Arunachal Landscape, made a presentation on the current status of blacknecked crane in Arunachal Pradesh and informed the experts about WWF conservation actions on the species in the state.

The delegates at the workshop also visited Sangti Valley -- a key habitat of black-necked crane in the state -- and interacted with the local community and school students.

The workshop concluded with a range of recommendations and called for immediate conservation actions to protect the wintering habitat of the species in the Sangti and Zemithang valleys of the state.

The black-necked crane

breeds in the high-altitude wetlands of the Tibetan Plateau (China), Eastern Ladakh in J-K and Gurudongmar Lake in Sikkim.

The species winters in the lower altitudes in the Tibetan Plateau, Yunan and Guizhou (China) and in Phobjika and Bumdeling (Bhutan).

The black-necked crane has strong cultural, spiritual and religious links to the local people in the region in Arunachal Pradesh.

A small proportion of the critically important sites have been designated under the Ramsar List of Internationally Important Wetlands and East Asian - Australasian Flyway Site Network.

The total global population of the species is estimated to be about 11,000 and it is listed as a globally 'Vulnerable' species by IUCN. The wetland habitats used by the black-necked crane are ecologically unique and extremely fragile. The conservation of such wetlands is essential as they are also very important hydrologically.

Call to review Demwe project cleared by Jayanthi Modi to visit Would try my best to fulfil Arunachal on Sharmila’s demand: Paswan February 20

gUWaHatI, FebrUary 15 (tnn): Organizations opposing the 1750-MW Demwe Lower Project in Arunachal Pradesh has asked the Centre to take a fresh look at the circumstances under which the project was cleared by the then Union minister, Jayanthi Natarajan, despite opposition by seven experts of National Board for Wildlife's standing committee.

The Asom Jatiyatabadi Yuva Chatra Parishad (AJYCP) and Krishak Mukti Sangram Samiti (KMSS), which were in the forefront against the project, want the Centre to cancel the clearance given to Demwe and other hydel projects in Arunachal Pradesh during Natarajan's time and hold fresh public hearings involving people in downstream Assam.

Natarajan recently resigned from Congress. In her letter to All India Congress Committee president Sonia Gandhi, Natarajan had mentioned that it was a specific policy of

the party to take steps to protect the environment during her tenure.

"But we want to know from the central government on what ground the Demwe project got clearance even as the experts of National Board for Wildlife's standing committee were opposed to it. Our demand is that the project should be scrapped because downstream Assam will be bear the brunt," said AJYCP Tinsukia district president Surajit Moran.

On January 14, AJYCP staged a protest at Parshuram Kund, located close to the project site in Arunachal Pradesh, alleging that the religious place would be destroyed once it comes up.

Thousands of people from different parts of the country congregated at Parshuram Kund on Makar Sankranti.

"We want a detail investigation into all hydro-power projects cleared during Natarajan's tenure, including Demwe. Public hearings

should involve people of Assam because it is on the downstream," said KMSS general secretary Kamal Medhi.

K K Chatradhara of People's Movement for Subansiri and Brahmaputra Valley said the Centre should take a fresh look into Natarajan's clearance to the Demwe project and make its findings public. "Once Demwe is complete, it will spell disaster on the ecology and livelihood in downstream Assam. Experts had warned about the possible impact on ecology. But the project got clearance.

The present government should look into how the project was cleared for the interest of people in Assam," said Chatradhara.

Activists said wildlife clearance to Demwe was given by Natarajan in February, 2012. The project required clearance from the standing committee of NBWL since it was located within 10 km radius of Kamlang Sanctuary.

Itanagar, FebrUary 15 (PtI): Prime Minister Narendra Modi will arrive here on February 20 on a day's visit to attend the Arunachal Pradesh Statehood Day celebrations at Indira Gandhi Park, officials said today.

Modi will inaugurate the Arunachal Festival being held here along with the Statehood Day celebrations, said IPR Secretary, Dani Salu.

Salu, who is also the state protocol officer, said that the prime minister will flag-off the ArunachalNew Delhi Rajdhani Express and also inaugurate the comprehensive power transmission line project and the Itanagar water supply project.

Modi will arrive here at 10 A.M. And return to New Delhi by 12 noon, he added.

IMPHal, FebrUary 15 (tnn): Union consumer affairs, food and pubic distribution minister Ram Vilas Paswan on Saturday said he would try his best to fulfill activist Irom Sharmila Chanu's demand to scrap the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act. "I had raised the issue in Parliament several times," the Union minister stated. He said he would urge Prime Minister Narendra Modi to take steps to scrap the 'draconian' Act against which Sharmila has been on a fast for the last 14 years.

Stating that he has visited the northeast on several occasions, the Union minister said he can understand the sentiments of the people of the northeast.

Paswan is on a two-day visit to Manipur to review the public distribution system and preparatory work for the implementation of National Food Security Act in Assam, Mani-

pur, Mizoram and Tripura. He told officials that efforts should be made to ensure adequate supply of foodgrains to the state.

To ensure transparency in the implementtion of the National Food Security Act, the entire system — right from the lifting of foodgrains from FCI godown by the state department employees till they reach fair price shops — would be digitalized and the same would be uploaded in the website, the Union minister said.

A beneficiary can easily find out the quantity of food grains being stored at his or her respective fair price shop, Paswan told reporters here on Saturday.

Computerization of data has been completed 90% in Mizoram and Tripura, Manipur (77%) and Assam (62%) and Manipur government is ready to implement the Act by July, officials said.

Assam records over Three KPLT militants arrested Assam to make seat belts gUWaHatI, FebrU- from Karbirongsope vil- team of Army and police 2,000 ‘heartbreak’ suicides ary mandatory in vehicles 15 (PtI): Three lage in Karbi Anglong moved into the area and gUWaHatI, FebrUary 15 (tnn): Failure to handle heartbreaks and consequent depression are taking a toll on youngsters in Assam. The state has registered over 2,000 love-related suicides since 2011.

In fact, Assam registered the highest number of heartbreak-induced suicides — 650 deaths — in the country in 2013.

Going by the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB)'s latest figures, the state recorded at least 1,545 such cases between 2011 and 2013.

"There were 494 such cases in the state in 2011, followed by 401 the next year. The figure shot up in 2013 with 650 such deaths," the records show.

Though the official numbers for last year are yet to be revealed, Assam Police database shows, over 500 such deaths were recorded in 2014.

"Some 1,035 men and 510 women committed suicide between 2011 and 2013 after facing heartbreaks. Most of them fall in the 15-29 age group," the data reveals.

Shilpa Hazarika, a researcher in applied behavioural science, said, "More boys commit suicide because of failure in their love affairs as they cannot release their pentup feelings. Love-lorn men are also prone to drugs."

On an average, 15% of the total suicides registered in the state in a year are caused by failed love affairs.

militants belonging to the Karbi Peoples' Liberation Tiger (KPLT) were arrested in a joint operation by Army and police

neW DelHI, FebrUary 15 (PtI): If all the large dams proposed by China on rivers within Tibet begin operations, the Brahmaputra River will never be the same again, warns a Canadian environmentalist who has done extensive research on the subject.

"Currently, Chinese engineers are constructing a five-dam cascade on the mid-reaches of the Tsangpo (Brahmaputra). Zhangmu Dam, with a capacity of 540 MW, has already started operation. The dam lies 86 miles southeast of Lha-

sa. Construction is under way on the other dams in this cascade," says Michael Buckley.

"China claims these dams will have no impact downstream, but the fact is that these dams are just the start of things, with bigger and bigger dams on the drawing-board, such as 800-MW Zhongyu Dam on a Yarlung Tsangpo tributary. Within Tibet, at least 20 large dams are planned for the Tsangpo (Brahmaputra) and its tributaries.

If all go into operation, the river will never be the same again," he told PTI. Buckley has also written a book "Meltdown in Tibet: China's Reckless Destruction of Ecosystems from the Highlands of Tibet to the Deltas of Asia" in

arrested three militants including the outfit's 'finance secretary', a defence spokesman said in a statement.

M'laya govt terminates contract with builder SHIllong, FebrUary 15 (PtI): Meghalaya government has terminated the contract with the Hindustan Prefab Ltd (HPL) to construct 840 dwelling units for the poor in the state after the company failed to comply with the terms agreed earlier.

It has also asked the construction company to refund Rs four crore balance money the government had released to the HPL, a senior Meghalaya Urban Development Authority official told PTI today.

The HPL was tasked with constructing 600 dwelling units for the poor in the city at

'Post dams Brahmaputra won't be same again' "At least 20 large dams are planned for the Brahmaputra...If all go into operation, the river will never be the same again"

district today.

Acting on specific information about presence of some KPLT militants in the village, a joint

which he tries to focus on the darker side of China's emergence as a global super power.

The book, published by Palgrave Macmillan, has a preface by the Dalai Lama in which the Tibetan spiritual leader says that "Meltdown in Tibet" should be "part of a wake-up call to the international community and China to seriously assess ecological and environmental conditions on the Tibetan plateau and take remedial measures".

On the ecological impact on Assam and Arunachal Pradesh that may be posed due to the construction of big dams on the Brahmaputra and other rivers by China, Buckley says the fragile ecosystem is at risk.

Nongmynsong area in 2007 and 240 dwelling units at Nongpoh in 2009 at a total cost of Rs 3962.25 lakh.

Only 96 units have been completed and occupied at the Nongmynsong project costing 3.25 lakh each while the remaining 504 units are at various stages of completion, the official said.

A tender for construction of the remaining 160 units at Nongmynsong has been floated and is likely to be completed within 18 months and for the Nongpoh project, the government intends to carry out the balance work departmentally, the official said.

OFFICE OF THE

RUNGUZUMI VILLAGE COUNCIL ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Through this column, we the village councils of both Runguzu and Runguzu Nasa villages would like to express our sincere gratitude to all those individuals, organizations, churches, villages, etc who supported us in prayer, word, cash and kind during the natural calamity faced by us on 18th October 2014 when hailstorm destroyed many parts of our unharvested paddy crop and we were laden with sorrows. We are especially thankful to:1. Chotisu Sazo, Speaker NLA. 2. Zaveyi Nyekha, Director, School Education 3. Murolhu, DC Phek 4. Temsunaro, Joint Secretary, Veterinary and Animal Husbandary.

5. Polan John, ADC, Chozuba 6. Agriculture Department, Chozuba.

7. Ighanu Village 8. Phugi Village 9. Yoruba Village 10. Chozuba Town Baptist Church 11. Chozuba Village 12. Khuso Village 13. Thuvopisu Village Words are inadequate to express our thanks to you all but we pray that our Almighty God would bless you abundantly.

CIZOPRA NIENU VCC Runguzu Nasa

THUYESA MEDEO VCC Runguzu

gUWaHatI, FebrUary 15 (tHe HInDU): The Assam government may not be able to arrange a bus with seat belts for a delegation of parliamentarians from the United Kingdom, but a verbal request by the British Deputy High Commission for this logistic support has expedited the State Transport Department’s move on seat belts. Automobile dealers have been told that safety belt will be made mandatory for all seats in all types of vehicles, including longdistance buses.

A senior State government official confirmed that the British Deputy

High Commission officials made a request for assisting them to hire a bus with passengers’ safety belts for an 11-member delegation of the U.K. branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association during their three-day visit to the State beginning on February 18.

“We have promised to provide full assistance in hiring a luxury bus either from the Assam State Transport Corporation or private operators to ensure safe travel of the delegation. At present there is no bus with safety belts in the State. However, we are soon going to tell the

automobile dealers that it will be made mandatory for all types of vehicles sold by them to have safety belts for all seats. The dealer will in turn convey it to manufacturers,” said a senior official of the Transport department.

Setting up driving schools in six districts would be another measure for ensuring road safety, he said.

Principal Secretary, Assam Legislative Assembly, G.P. Das, told The Hindu that the delegation to be headed by Lord Speaker Baroness D. Souza would travel to Delhi, Kolkata and Assam.

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The Morung Express

‘Land, finance key to India renewables drive’

New Delhi, February 15 (reuTerS): India will struggle to hit its “hugely ambitious” renewable energy target if it fails to make more land available for plants and ensure utilities have the means to buy in clean energy, the head of U.S.-based First Solar said on Sunday.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has made renewable energy a priority for his government, as he looks to leverage the falling cost of solar power - expected to reach parity with conventional energy by 2017 - and address India’s chronic power shortages.

First Solar Chief Executive Jim Hughes said he welcomed the government’s commitment to develop 100,000 megawatts (MW) of solar power by 2022 - a 33-fold rise from today’s level - but that in some Indian states there were question marks over the financial viability of so-

A boy dusts off a solar panel installed on the rooftop of his house on the outskirts of Ahmedabad October 27, 2014. (REUTERS File Photo)

lar schemes.

“It makes it difficult to develop projects in these circumstances,” Hughes told Reuters in an interview in New Delhi. First

Solar, based in Tempe, Arizona, makes solar panels and also builds solar power plants, many of which it sells to power producers.

Opening India’s first

major renewable energy conference on Sunday, Modi said clean energy was an “article of faith” for him. Analysts have said Modi’s targets will be diffi-

cult to reach given the poor financial health of mostly state-run electricity distribution companies that would buy solar energy, and the slow pace at which land for plants is made available.

First Solar said on Sunday it planned to develop 5,000 MW of solar in India by 2019, while U.S. rival SunEdison announced plans to build 15,200 MW of solar and wind power by 2022. Hughes said First Solar needed to secure land, agree financing and reach power purchase agreements with buyers before building the capacity.

Its commitments follow recent pledges to launch new solar plants by domestic companies like Adani Enterprises and Essel Group.

“India has a critical need to add capacity to its grid as it continues to experience strong eco-

nomic growth and growing demand for energy,” said Pashupathy Gopalan, president of SunEdison Asia-Pacific.

India wants to raise its energy mix from renewables to 15 percent in 10 to 12 years from 6 percent now, Power Minister Piyush Goyal told the conference in Delhi on Sunday.

Total installed photovoltaic solar capacity globally stood at 135,000 MW at the end of 2013, according to First Solar.

India’s largest lender, the State Bank of India, said it would bankroll 15,000 MW of solar power by 2020. The SBI did not disclose the size of the financing package but 1,000 MW of solar typically costs about $1 billion.

One MW can power roughly 1,000 U.S. homes, although this varies widely, depending on the amount of heating or cooling needed.

‘No proof mobile radiation causes cancer’ New Delhi, February 15 (iaNS): At a time when various studies are going on whether radiation from mobile phones is harmful for health, an US expert Saturday said no study or research has proved that non-ionizing radiation, as produced by these devices, causes cancer.

“No study or research about cancer has proved that non-ionizing radiation causes cancer. There is a campaign doing the rounds that the use of mobile phones or the proximity to mobile phone towers can cause cancer.

“Proponents of the theory question arguments in favour of the safety of mobiles. How can you be so sure about it since cancer develops in the body in 20 or 30 years, they ask. Mobile phones have been around for only 20 years,” M.V.Pillai of Jefferson University said at an event organized

by Indian Medical Association and the Press Club.

Electro-magnetic spectrum has two types of radiation on either end. On the right side is the ionizing radiation represented by X-ray, gamma ray and nuclear reactors, which is dangerous. Non-ionizing radiation on the left side of the spectrum is not harmful. “But there have been many studies conducted in animals. They have been exposed to wi-fi and microwaves. None of these researches have proved that non-ionizing radiation causes cancer. In other words, nonionizing radiation is proved to be harmless,” he added.

Pillau mentioned that if someone speaks on mobile phone for a long time, it generates heat. “Though the heat does not damage DNA’s structure, it could affect other proteins. Research should go on in this aspect. Whatever the case may be, it is not advisable to speak on mobile phone for hours,” he added. The World Health Organisation is conducting many studies on this.

Age limit under EPFO pension ‘Discounts may not be Trai may pull up Airtel, Vodafone, scheme may be raised to 60 viable for E-commerce Idea in ISD calling card case The level of deficit is not a matter of companies in long run’ New Delhi, Febru- at lowering ISD rates by alNew Delhi, February 15 Access service provid(PTi): Retirement fund body EPFO’s concern, though it is recommended ary 15 (PTi): Telecom lowing ILD operators to di- ers are companies like Airthat the EPFO should look into investment returns more carefully and do not increase benefits without consulting Actuary and do sensitivity analysis more frequently, the valuer has suggested.

As per the the Valuer appointed by EPFO, the net liability or deficit is Rs 10,855 crore as on March 31, 2012, Rs 6,712.96 crores as on March 31, 2013 and Rs 7,832.74 crores as on March 31, 2014.

It is also proposed by the committee to increase the short service pension entitlement age from 50 years to 55 years.

This measure would reduce the shortfall in pension fund to the extent of Rs 12,028 crores.

At present, members can ask for fixing pension at attaining the age of 50 years provided they have served for at least 10 years.

It is also proposed that the pensionable salary should be determined on the basis of 36 months average wages immediately preceding the date of exit from the scheme in place of existing 60 months.

It may be noted that there is no bar of any kind for contributing towards other social security schemes run by the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO)–Employees’ Provident Fund Scheme 1952 and Employees’ Deposit Linked Insurance Scheme 1976.

trustees in a meeting on Thursday will consider a proposal to raise the age limit from 58 to 60 years for vesting of pension under the Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS-95).

At present, a formal sector worker covered under the EPS-95 can make contributions towards pension scheme till the age of 58 years and can claim pension after that.

The Pension Implementation Committee (PIC) has recommended an increase in the age for vesting pension to 60 years, while suggesting that the Actuary should be asked to develop a model to give incentive to those persons who opt for drawing pension at the age of 60 years.

An actuary analyses financial consequences of risk after studying uncertain future events, particularly of concerns to pension and insurance plans.

Raising the age limit would reduce the deficit in pension fund and would increase the pension benefits of members as there would be two additional years of service, as per the agenda listed for the meeting of the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation’s (EPFO) apex decision making body the Central Board of Trustees (CBT).

According to a report of the valuer on the scheme, increasing the age limit would reduce the shortfall in the pension fund to the extent of Rs 27,067 crore.

MuMbai, February 15 (PTi): E-commerce companies have incurred combined losses of around Rs 1,000 crore due to heavy discounting strategy and this model is not feasible in the long run, a PwC report said.

“Offering lower prices will not be viable in the long term. Despite luring in customers in the initial stages, lower prices won’t be able to retain customers in the long run. While the discounting will continue for some more months, e-tailers are thinking beyond discounts to acquire customers and build loyalty,” the report said.

The combined losses faced by e-tailing companies as a result of their discounting strategies now stand at almost Rs 1,000 crore, the report said without giving the timeframe for these losses.

Out of a total of 1,005 respondents surveyed as part of the PwC study from India, almost half the respondents said they preffered to shop online due to better deals and discounts offered by these retailers.

“A majority of e-commerce players are start-ups and, therefore, are working towards rapidly scaling up their market share. They have been aggressively planning and implementing discounting strategies, which would make the customer sit up and take notice,” it said.

Pointing out that price has emerged as the biggest differentiator driving consumers to shop online or in-store, it said the customer habits have changed, as they are used to discounts throughout the year.

The PwC report said the ‘predatory’ pricing strategy of e-commerce companies isn’t helping their stand with the premium brands.

It found that with valuations of e-commerce companies skyrocketing, there is increasing pressure from investor firms to cut down on discounts and concentrate on making profits.

_

LEISURE

Simple Rules - There is just one simple rule: “Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through 9.”

SUDOKU Game Number # 3139

regulator TRAI is believed to be considering issuing show-cause notice to Airtel, Vodafone and Idea Cellular for not signing agreements with companies interested in providing international calling card services directly to consumers.

“Show-cause notice is ready in the matter (violation of International Calling Card Services Regulations) for Airtel, Vodafone and Idea Cellular.

They will be given about a week’s time to reply and then further action will be taken,” an official source told PTI. When contacted, spokespersons of Airtel, Vodafone and Idea declined to comment on the matter.

There was no reply to queries sent to TRAI. Trai has received complaints from interested ILD (International Long Distance) companies that these operators are not signing agreements, thereby violating regulation.

The regulation, issued in August 2014, was aimed

DAILY CROSS WORD

CROSSWORD # 3149

Answer Number # 3138

rectly offer their service to consumers.

A user of a calling card is required to dial a certain prefix code on his/her phone to make calls using network ILD operators.

Since companies having only ILD cannot have direct access to customers, they are required to go through telecom service providers, mainly mobile operators.

Trai observed that ILD operators that in many cases ILD operator gets only 10 per cent share out of total ISD rate paid by consumers and 90 per cent is kept by access services.

It also reduced charges that were paid by ILD operators to main telecom operators from their ISD call charges to 40 paisa per minute for wireless services and Rs 1.20 per minute for wireline services.

The calling cards have not been launched till date mainly because of some access service providers not signing interconnect agreement.

DIMAPUR Civil Hospital:

tel, Vodafone, Idea, BSNL, MNTL, Reliance Communication whose services are directly available for customers.

Under the rule, an ILD operator interested in providing services through ‘Calling Card’ shall request, in writing, to all access service providers to enter into interconnection agreements so that its customer can access services of ILD operator by dialling some special numbers irrespective of their mobile network.

As per the regulation, access service providers shall, within thirty days from the date of receipt of request enter into interconnection agreement with the ILD operator so that they can issue calling cards directly to consumers.

The regulation issued in August 2014 bars the access service providers from denying their consumers the ILD voice services offered through calling card either directly or indirectly.

STD CODE: 03862 232224; Emergency229529, 229474

Metro Hospital:

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Police Control Room

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O Sports Word FOOTBALL

BASKETBALL BASEBALL SOCCER SOFTALL KICKBALL DODGEBALL VOLLEYBALL BOWLING LACROSSE GOLF CHEERING SWIMMING TENNIS CRICKET TRACK CROSSCOUNTRY WRESTLING CURLING BOXING

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D C O L C F K D L P A S P J L I Z G R P

P V L E R C F P U R B G Z I E A U K X T

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P D F A K P R D N G F B L Q W K B A Y L

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ACROSS

1. . Jazz ostinatos 6. Indian music 10. Tease 14. Ancient Roman magistrate 15. Twin sister of Ares 16. Car 17. Communion table 18. Blowgun missile 19. Mogul 20. Vile 22. Composer Jerome ____ 23. Central points 24. Property 26. Sharp intake of breath 30. Estimated time of arrival 31. Indian bread 32. Dwarf buffalo 33. Eat 35. Good person 39. A member of the Cosa Nostra 41. A ceremonial staff 43. Jargon 44. Snack 46. Beige 47. New Zealand parrot 49. Letter after sigma 50. Sneaker or pump

51. Music from the 50s & 60s 54. Apprentice 56. Bobbin 57. Party pooper 63. Phone 64. Shade trees 65. A type of tree 66. Initial wager 67. Tidy 68. Sporting venue 69. Sun 70. Bronzes 71. Out of practice

DOWN

1. Absorb written material 2. Doing nothing 3. Equips 4. Flutter 5. Anagram of “Fires” 6. Editing 7. High-spirited horse 8. Lass 9. To the rear 10. Whippersnapper 11. European blackbird 12. Begin 13. Sexually aroused 21. Female students 25. Leisure 26. Pinup’s legs

27. A Freudian stage 28. Couch 29. Analgesic 34. Writers of literary works 36. Skin irritation 37. Roman emperor 38. Not false 40. Curved molding 42. Unpleasant person 45. Footstool 48. Nod 51. Killer whales 52. Inclined 53. Greek letter 55. Academy award 58. Urgent request 59. South American country 60. Poems 61. Deliver a tirade 62. Found in a cafeteria Ans to CrossWord 3148

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

STD CODE: 0370 100/2244279 2222222 2222111 2222952 2222916 2243339 2224202 08974997923

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

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The Morung Express

Christian Education teachers taught on U-Link!

Morung Express News Mokokchung | February 15

Understanding the importance of ‘Sunday Schools’ and ‘Child classes’ in a Christian society, Child Education Department (CED) of eight churches in Mokokchung came together for a special ‘Teachers’ Creative Teaching Programme’ with resource persons from the Nagaland Baptist Church Council, Kohima.

The three day programme, hosted by Kumlong Baptist Church, began on February 13, and it was attended by 60 Sunday school and Child service teachers from different churches. The participants were introduced to‘U-Link!’ (Or Unique Link!), a Christian education program produced by the Nagaland Baptist Church Council’s Education & Communication Department.

The resource persons from NBCC Kohima imparted knowledge about the implemention of the U-Link concept, targeted at the adolescent group in the society. It lists out different activities like praise & worship, choreography & dances, arts & crafts, Bible Trailers, games & sports, music & music, creative

Magnify the Lord: Sunday School teachers from different tribal churches in Mokokchung presenting a song during the special Sunday devotional service at Kumlong Baptist Church on the concluding day of the CED Teachers’ Creative Teaching Program hosted by KBC on Sunday, February 15. (Morung Photo)

worship and brainteasers for different teenagers according to their interests, their talent and intellect.

The seven resource persons from NBCC thoroughly enlightened the participants on how to get started and how to carry about the techniques and concept of U-Link in the society. The participants were also handed out a ‘ULink! Teachers’ guide book’ published by NBCC to enable them to have a better idea of the whole concept of the U-Link.

Speaking with The Morung Express at Kumlong Baptist Church after the devotional service here today, the NBCC Education & Communication Secretary, Dr Botoholi said that the NBCC came up with the concept of U-Link program

ENPO general session Dimapur, February 15 (mexN): The Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) will hold its General Session at Tuensang head quarter from from February 18-19. A press note from Acting General Secretary, ENPO, Manlang Phom has informed all the ENPO office bearers, advisors, tribal units, sub units and frontal organisations to reach Tuensang on or before February 17 for the session. A new team of office bearers for the tenure 2015 – 17 would also be inducted during the session, he added.

Sekrenyi Kratsii in Kohima village Kohima, February 15 (mexN): The Ketoukhrie Peli no-11, T. Khel, Kohima village is all set to observe “Sekrenyi Kratsii” from February 17 to 19 at Tsiituonuomia Zie, T. Khel Ground.

T

he NPF is placing this statement in the public space on the foundation that it is our political obligation and duty to present the hard and real facts so that the public or leaders are not misled nor confused and everyone are allowed to draw rationale conclusion based on facts, facts and only facts.

With regard to the ongoing crisis in the NPF family, I lay a landmark judgement of ECI passed on 12th March 1996 for one and all to analysis and draw the red line on the ground.

In 1996, T. N. Seshan was Chief Election Commissioner and G. V. G. Krishnamurthy and Dr. M.S. Gill, were Election Commissioner. The case in reference is the dispute case No.1 of 1996 under Para 15 of the election symbols reservation and allotment order 1968 between Arjun Singh as petitioner and the President Indian National Congress as respondent.

The Indian National Congress is registered as a political party with the

because the adolescent age is the time when a person is most vulnerable as he/she is in a growing stage. She maintained that the contemporary adolescents find themselves in a more vulnerable situation due to the impact modernization; media; and the modern gadgets like computers, mobile phones and the internet etc, which could easily drive a person to go astray.

In this regard, Dr Botoholi asserted that the NBCC decided to come up with the U-Link concept so that the Christian Education teachers can teach and deal with the adolescents issues better and enable them to become responsible Christian citizens in the society.

Giving a brief summary of the U-Link!, Dr Botoholi said that the ‘U’ stand for ‘Unique’

to remind every adolescent that he/she is ‘unique, a masterpiece in God’s creation’.

The ‘Link!’ implies an effort to ‘help them stay liked to God, Church, family, friends and society’.

However, she also informed that the U-Link! is not a full prepared curriculum nor a movement but just a simple program to engage the pre & early teens meaningfully and to mould them to become spiritually strong persons.

She also disclosed that the ‘U-Link!’ is being implemented in Kohima as a pilot project and added that the results are very encouraging. Saying that the U-Link is open-ended for further creativity and improvements, Dr Botoholi said that, while keeping the basic concept intact, the

NPCC conducts joint meeting with DCC and ACCC members at Mon moN, February 15 (mexN): The Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC) held a joint meeting with the District Congress Committee (DCC), Assembly Constituency Congress Committee (ACCC) and Party workers of Mon district in Mon on February 12, a press release from Mon DCC President Takyong and General Sec-

retary B Sangti informed.

During the meeting, Aheto Sema, NPCC General Secretary requested the DCC and ACCC of Mon District to work with sincerity. Nillo Rengma, former Minister and Vice President of NPCC, who is also the Incharge of Mon District, gave a brief account of the current political situation of the State. Rengma said that the

PRESS RELEASE ECI under section 29A of the representation of the People Act 1951. A split took place in the party, resulting in the formation of two groups headed by P. V. Narashimha Rao and N. D. Tiwari respectively.

On 16th January 1996, a petition was filed by Arjun Singh before the commission under Para 15 of the symbols order claiming that the group headed by N.D. Tiwari is the real Indian National Congress. The matter was heard by the commission on 12th and 13th February 1996 applying the test of majority as upheld by the Supreme Court in the case of Sadiq Ali Vs election commission and others (AIR 1972 SC 187). The commission by a majority decision 2:1 decided on the 12th March 1996 that the group headed by P. V. Narashimha Rao was the real Indian National Congress as it enjoyed superior majority in the legislature wings of the party.

The principle laid down by the Hon’ble Supreme Court in the Sadiq Ali Vs ECI and others AIR 1972

SC 187, explicitly states that the numerical strength of the legislature should be the criteria for determining the legitimacy of a group as the real party. This 1972 landmark judgement of the Hon’ble Supreme Court is the sole yardstick for the Election Commission to recognise the real group.

In the very judgement, the Hon’ble Supreme Court has also pointed out the difficulties in ascertaining the details of the party organisation and every primary membership of the party because of possible factions and the bogus membership and the necessity for finding the truth within a short span of time.

In the 1996 ECI landmark judgement observed as follows; “..... denying the rights of party members in the decision making of the party and depriving them of their rights of effective say in the running of the party affairs. This gives rise to bossism and personality cult and small coteries hijack the parties. Those refusing to tow the dictates of the party bosses or refusing towing

their lines are thrown out of the party organisation unceremoniously and without following the provisions of the party constitution regulating the taking of disciplinary action against erring members.” “...The commission cannot remain a mute spectator for all time to come to these unsavoury happenings in political parties registered with it....” and therefore such groups are liable to attract prosecution under relevant sections of the law, especially those who fails to uphold the principles of inner-party democracy, such parties can hardly expect the nation to believe they would promote, encourage and practise democracy and it has rightly observed in its order dated 16th October, 1994 in dispute case No.1 of 1994 regarding Janata Dal. This statement is issued without any motivations nor intentions but simply to assist the public and leaders of the day.

(Shilumar) Convenor NPF Press and Media Cell

AN APPEAL TO OUR CHANG AND YIMCHUNGER BROTHERS

F

irst of all, I am writing this appeal with a sense of guilt because though the concern was there from the beginning, I failed to put it into writing and am writing now, only after another innocent victim Chimgmak had died. Along with the ENSF, victim's parents and all right thinking Nagas, I also deeply mourn the deaths of Ghongma, Chingmak and others who had become victims of the recent violence among the Yimchungers and Changs.

I am also writing this appeal with some reservations because I am not a party to the conflict and some might even say that it is none of my business.

On my part, on my recent

journey to Tuensang and Noklak, I have learned some details of the dispute from a third party Tribal Council Chairman. But I still feel unqualified to pass any comments on the disputed land as I have not interacted with any Tribal leaders of either the Chang or Yimchunger tribes. I am therefore writing from a neutral position not siding with any side in the conflict.

I however want to make this appeal from the background of our national struggle of yesterday -which is also still ongoing.

In the initial stages of that struggle, in defense of our God given lands and heritage, the records of your two tribes stand unique

teachers are encouraged to feel free to introduce new growth-group befitting their context.

Many of the participating teachers revealed that they had greatly benefitted from the programme.

Chemdila Sangtam, a Sunday school teacher, maintained that it was a very different kind of a programme and after attending training; she can now understand how to teach and deal with the adolescents in a better and more proper manner.

Moanaro, the CED Director of Kumlong Baptist Church (the host church of the programme), while expressing gratitude to the NBCC team for the trainings, maintained that the program was attended by other churches so that they can carry the program together as a ministry, as all the communities have adolescents in their churches.

The participants were Sumi Baptist Church, Mokokchung (MKG); Lotha Baptist Church, MKG; Chang Baptist Church; MKG, Sangtam Baptist Church MKG; Khaimnungan Baptist Church, MKG; Konyak Baptist Church, MKG; Asukho Baptist Church; and Kumlong Baptist Church.

and unrivaled. Your prominent heroes like Thongti Chang who was the first Commander –in –Chief of the Naga armed forces and General Lakhum Yimchunger who let the first strike against the enemy will forever go down in the annals of Naga history as part of our proud heritage.

Your two tribes along with the Konyaks, Khiemniungans, Sangtams and Phoms also bore the brunt of the enemy’s reprisal that left your homes and hearths in ashes and thousands of your tribesmen killed.

But despite of all these setbacks and sufferings, your prowess in the battlefield stand proven beyond any dispute. That record is an honorable record.

But if you are going to use that same prowess to provoke an inter-tribal war among yourselves, it would be the most tragic and dishonorable heritage that you can pass on to future generations of your children as well as to all Nagas.

Please therefore allow me to make this appeal to both leaders of your tribes not to tarnish that proud record of yours with anything that is fratricidal and self destructing in nature. May the almighty God grant wisdom to both tribes to come to an amicable settlement so that further bloodshed will be prevented. To that end, I am sure, all well wishing Nagas stand with you.

Very sincerely yours, Kaka D. Iralu

State Congress supported Chief Minister TR Zeliang in the larger interest of the Naga People during the Nagaland Assembly floor test on February 5, the release stated.

Former Minister Kongam and former MLA Langpha also spoke on the occasion, the release added.

Monday 16 February 2015

Dimapur

5

Bishop appeals for peace and harmony Kohima, February 15 (mexN): Bishop of Kohima, Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil today requested prayer for peace in Nagaland and particularly, for peace between the Yimchunger and Chang tribe. He was made this appeal at the blessing and dedication of the renovated Holy Redeemer Church, Tobu on February 15. The Bishop with some fathers had earlier visited St. Thomas Church, Tuensang and prayed for the peace and amicable settlement between two tribes.

The Parish Priest of Tobu Rev Fr. Sivi, accorded the words of welcome to the Bishop, Fathers and Sisters different Church leaders, public leaders and the invited guests at the function.

In his homily, the Bishop congratulated the Fathers, Sisters and the Community for having completed the beautiful church and noted that the biggest, highest and the best buildings in all vil-

lages or towns are always the churches which show that the people offer their best to God. However, the Bishop also stressed that, “Our best is not the material structure or the external show… The external worship we make in the Church should be a sign and symbol of our internal worship of life and actions. Or else our worship will be only that of the lip service, not worship in spirit and in truth.”

Looking at the political and social scenario, the Bishop questioned whether the people offer true worship to God. “What is happening around us is contrary to our Christina faith and belief. Often times we are only Christian by name, not in fact… As Christians can we be silent on corruption, killing of the innocent, tribal and other feuds? Can we tolerate the killing of the innocent and the suffering

caused to the innocent people? Rev. Dr. Thoppil further posited.

In this context, he further appealed everyone to “forgive” one another and begin a new chapter in Christian life. “Let us not build only the external church, but build up the internal church; a church that will last for eternity, a church in which we offer true worship in spirit and truth,” he exhorted the congregation.

The bishop also pointed out to the celebrants, Frs. Benjamin Chang, Thomas Yimchunger, Isaac Sema, Ashikho Mao, Joseph Kath, from Nagaland along with Frs. from Chhattisgarh, Kerala and Assam as examples of dedication. There was a short felicitation program and agape meal to cap the whole dedication program in Tobu, informed a press note from Fr. Thomas Toretkiu, Bishop’s Secretary, Kohima.

LBA delegates attend NBCC Triennial moN, February 15 (Dipr): The Liangmai Baptist Association (LBA) team of 15 members from different churches travelled 405 Kilometre from Tening Mission Centre to attend the Nagaland Baptist Church Council’s 20th Triennial Convention held from February 5 to 8 at Konyak Baptist Bumeinok Bangjum Mis-

sion Centre in Mon Town.

Executive Secretary Kitanwi, who led the team, said that the members benefited through the spiritual messages given by the speakers.

Besides the spiritual messages, the team also learned new methods of indigenous cooking and different ways of hospitality to host such a big event in the near future.

Apart from the 20th Triennial Convention, the LBA team visited Longwa village located in Mon district about 45 kilometers from Mon Town. The team also visited the Longwa Angh’s place and interacted with the Angh and elders of the village on how Angh executes and administers in his Jurisdiction.

ANSTA Peren consultative meeting pereN, February 15(mexN): The All Nagaland School Teachers Association (ANSTA), Peren Unit has informed that a joint consultative meeting will be held on March 10 at Government Middle School (GMS), Jalukie

Town, Sector ‘B’ at 10:30 am. A press release from ANSTA Peren Unit President Kailadinbo Nchang appealed to all the office bearers, executives, central representative of ANSTA, and teacher incharge of Government

Primary School/GMS and one representative from all the Government High Schools to attend the meeting. The Association will take stern action against schools which fail to attend the meeting, the release added.

Team from Rajasthan & SIRD visits Peren pereN, February 15 (mexN): A team of 23 officials from Rajasthan representing Watershed Development & Soil Conservation department and State Institute of Rural Development (SIRD) visited Lamhai-Dungki village under Peren district on February 10.

The team accompanied by Vanchamo Ngullie, Deputy Director, Land Resource Development (LRD) department; Neilhukhoto Kuotsu, DPO, LRD, Peren; WDTs, Peren; senior lecturers from SIRD, Dr. Tuthsutho Phoji, Dr. Adino Vitso, and Imtimenla Longkumer, visited the village to

inspect various Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) projects implemented under the department of LRD. The team interacted with the villagers, the watershed committee members and the SHGs regarding implementation of various projects in the village.

The Rajasthan team lauded the developmental works in the village done by the department of Land Resources, especially the plantation of rubber plants in a 400 ha land with around 2 lakhs (approx) standing plants, stated a press release received here.

India's dangerous descent into religious fundamentalism & BJP'S downright plunge into infamy

A

bul A'la Maududi instigated the first religious sectarian riots in Pakistan by attempting to convert Jinnah’s secular Pakistan into a wahhabi caliphate. The right-wing Hindu fundamentalists in India likewise have upped the ante on Hindutva to convert Nehru’s secular India into a Hindu Rashtra.

The Sangh Parivar, comprising of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and its progenies, including the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Vishva Hindu Parishad (VHP) and the Bajrang Dal, is determined to assert the absolute hegemony of Hindu dharmic traditions in essentializing the idea of the term “Indian” irrespective of ethnicity, religion or region.

Hindutva neologism is defined as “a dharma or way of life” understood to be synonymous with "Indianization" as distinct from Hindu religion. The term has no Hindu credal significance as Hinduism itself being understood as only a part and fraction of it. According to Golwalkar, the word “Hindu has a national character. It is tantamount to the word Indian” connoting “the entire culture and civilisation of the Indian people”. Apart from its pejorative sense, the term Hindutva in itself may not be problematic if it is benignly understood in its depoliticized sense of upholding Hindu culture alone. However, by

semantic manipulation of the term, Hindutva has become a clash with the credentials of pluralism, modernity and its liberal and secular ethos. Thus, for the Sangh Parivars, an “Indian” is invariably a “Hindu” either by religion or by cultural assimilation, i.e. the term “Indianness” is to be equated with “Hinduness” and there cannot be an “Indian” without being a “Hindu”.

“Ek bhasha, ek devta, ek sampraday banana hoga (We need to ensure one language, one God and one religion),” said the RSS Chief, Mohan Bhagwat.

Hindustan is a Hindu nation, Hindutva is the identity and everybody living in India should consider himself a Hindu because “for unity, we need uniformity”, he proclaimed. It implies that all ethnic and religious minorities, including Mohammedans and Christians, must co-opt Hindu dharmic way of living in order to be true Indians as Hindutva alone is the exercise of true Indian nationalism. Thus, for the Sangh outfit, plural and multicultural India’s “unity in diversity” becomes “uniformity” by assimilation.

With the BJP in power, the fringe elements are emboldened, if not encouraged. In the name of Hindutva ideology, the idea of nationalism is ruthlessly being polemicised.

“Modi is Hindutva rakshak (saviour), the Congress was

Hindutva virodhi (enemy),” declared a vitriolic VHP worker. Now after “Love Jihad” and “Ghar Wapsi”, Christian Churches and institutions are remorselessly being vandalized in Delhi.

In this emotive articulation of dominant “Hindu” identity in the name of uniformity, religious fundamentalism and violence are being senselessly venerated and legitimized.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s complicit silence has brought the BJP's to its humiliating defeat in Delhi Legislative Assembly election which was a clear verdict against saffronization of Indian politics. BJP, perhaps, naively misinterpreted Modi's popularity for popular acceptance of Hindutva. The spooked BJP is now in a damage control mode. Prime Minister Narendra Modi was quick to summon the Delhi Police Commissioner hours after the vandalism and theft at Holy Child Auxilium School in south Delhi. In an attempt to placate the mounting criticism, the Union Minister, Rajyavardhan Rathore, dodged in a Press Conference that Prime Minister cannot respond to every remark made by the fringe elements.

If Islamization of Pakistan is dangerous, Hinduization of India is equally dangerous. Secularism is too integral to India's sense of territorial integrity and constitutional democracy.

The Supreme Court in S. R. Bommai’s case has already held secularism as an element of the basic structure of the Constitution which cannot be obliterated even by the Parliament. The concept of secularism is in fact more fundamental than the fundamental rights themselves without which liberating framework, the ideological contours of the Sangh Parivar in practice would render the constitutional notion of freedom, liberty and equality redundant and impotent altogether.

The problem with the Hindutva project of the saffron outfit is the equating of the term “secular” with Nehru-Gandhi and “Gandhi” with Congress on the one, and the idea of “Hinduness” with the notion of “Indianness” and the term “Hindu” with Bharat on the other. The relevance of Hindutva may not be disputed if its discourse is kept within the bounds of preserving Hindu culture and traditions alone. However, so long as it remains an ideological discourse to legitimize imposition of dominant “Hindu” identity on the minorities, communal frenzy is bound to explode from time to time. India can only remain plural and secular as true to its historical diversity and there is no other viable idea of India unless its territorial integrity is to break free-loose.

Sira Kharay Advocate Office: A-138, Defence Colony

The Morung Express is introducing “Public Space” as part of our intention to provide deliberate space for the opinions of the people to be expressed and heard through this newspaper. Nonetheless, The Morung Express points out that the opinions expressed in the contents published in the “Public Space” do not reflect the views and position of the newspaper or the editor.

6

IN-FOCUS

The Power of Truth

The Morung Express MonDAy 16 fEbruAry 2015 voluME X IssuE 44

Along Longkumer Consulting Editor

Peace and Conflict

Need Christian Love & Traditional Wisdom

I

n the context of the recent violence and conflict between two tribal communities in Tuensang District, Nagas will do well to learn how we can live together as a people. To begin with, a subject like peace and conflict has great resonance in a place like Nagaland because both co-exist very well in almost perfect unison. Our society is characterized by peace in the midst of constant conflict and vice-versa. Nagaland is therefore a fertile ground for peace and conflict and as such many students and researchers come here to study its different aspects. It is quite interesting to observe how the dynamics of peace and conflict manifest itself in Naga society and the cause and effect of it. As this writer sees it, a theology of peace and conflict can be found that will perhaps explain its various dimensions. The first observation that one can draw upon is that Nagas are so used to seeing the interplay of peace and conflict in our midst. By this, it also suggests that Nagas are very prone to getting into a conflict situation and at the same time we make peace as easily. The latter is perhaps due to the fact that we are also led by Christian principles of forgiveness and love. What you will therefore notice is that after the public acrimony, exchange of angry words and even physical assault meted out to each other, peace and reconciliation takes place between the conflicting parties. Except for the rare intractable conflicts, what you will usually notice in Naga society is that conflict arises frequently followed by peacemaking and resolution. The question therefore arises is if we are indeed peace loving by nature, why do we have to be in conflict with one another? Can we avoid getting into conflict in the first place?

As mentioned, Nagas are quite adept at peace making.

However, in order to avoid or prevent conflict from taking place, we need to perhaps develop certain skills. In this regard, one of the other observations, according to this writer, is that Nagas tend to be hasty and emotional when it comes to dealing with situations. We don’t think and reason as much as we should and this leads to hurting the sentiment of others. This can then lead to serious misunderstanding and the subsequent conflict, which may go on for years without any resolution. Recently, two clans of Viswema village resolved a century old dispute over a forest. As one of the elders mentioned, “for almost a century, we misunderstood each other”.

In between people on both sides of the conflict suffered immensely and that both clans had to harbor so much hatred and suffering in the course of dispute. Hopefully, the people of Tuensang will also realize the futility of continuing with their conflict and knowing that many Nagas are resolving their age old disputes and restoring peace through Christian love and traditional wisdom.

To conclude, it is high time that we start to develop the skills that will help us in avoiding conflict in the first place.

One suggestion is that we need to train our minds to think better and reason well. There is a saying “where the mind goes, the man follows”. We need to choose our thoughts well. As Proverbs 23:7 in the Bible says, “As a man thinks in his heart, so is he”. Thoughts are powerful and we can use them daily to good effect for things of peace and not conflict. Many a times Nagas have this habit of doing things without looking at the consequences of our actions. We need to be more careful not to hurt with our action. Another observation is that we like to take the law into our own hands. This is perhaps an indication of the absence of rule of law and the governance deficit, which breeds conflict. All these are food for thought for the Nagas as we deal with the question of peace and conflict.

(Feedback can be sent to consultingeditormex@gmail.com)

lEfT WING |

Mazie Nakhro, Ph.D

Day 28: A prayer for our rulers Thought-Provoking Question: If our political leaders are not doing what they should, could it be because we are not praying for them?

What does God say? Read Psalms 72 The psalmist opens with a prayer that God would help the king to rule in righteousness. It goes this way: Please help the king to be honest and fair just like you, our God. Let him be honest and fair with all people, especially the poor.

Let peace and justice rule every mountain and hill.

Let the king defend the poor, rescue the homeless, and crush everyone who hurts them.

Let the king live forever like the sun and the moon.

Let him be as helpful as rain that refreshes the meadow and the ground Let the king be fair with everyone, and Let there be peace until the moon falls from the sky (vv. 1-7).

Since a righteous king would be a blessing to the poor and the needy (vv. 12-14), the psalmist further prays that God would extend the dominion of the king and grant him honor (vv. 8-11).

As a righteous king would bring prosperity and abundance, the psalmist asks that daily prayer be made for the king and words of encouragement be given to him (vv. 15-17).

For many, this prayer may seem too idealistic and unreal. That's why the psalmist invokes God "who alone can work miracles" to make all these a reality so that His glory may be seen everywhere on earth (vv. 18-19).

Okay, so now what?

We would do well to follow the example of the psalmist by praying for our leaders. That was what Samuel did when he said to King Saul, "As for me, far be it from me that I should sin against the LORD by failing to pray for you" (l Sam. 12:23).

All human leaders need our prayer support for God's guidance. So, remember to pray for the civil leaders in our land.

Pray that they may be models of godliness and spirituality.

Pray that they may seek God's guidance in the affairs of our people.

Prayer: Our heavenly Father, I ask You to give our leaders wisdom to make decisions that would strengthen and prosper our nation. I pray that they would make right decisions concerning the politics, the social welfare, and the economics of our country. Amen.

Taken from the book “Breakfast with the King: The 100Day Devotional” by Mazie Nakhro

S O U N D BITE “Probably one of the biggest (win) in my career so far. Amazing way to begin our World Cup with a win under our belt, but they did put up a strong fight. My role in the team is to bat through, and the power-hitters can play around knowing that one end is secure.

The way Shikhar (Dhawan) and Suresh (Raina) batted today is commendable. The support has been magnificent. We expect the Virat Kohli same throughout the tournament.”

THE EDIT PAGE

C O M M E N T A R Y

Kate Murphy NYT

The Futility of Vengeance

L

AST month an Australian entrepreneur created a service that allows you to send your enemies an envelope full of glitter. When opened, bits of sparkly spite will fall out and stick — as glitter and grudges do.

A rush of customers crashed the company’s website within 24 hours. The owner then made a tidy profit, selling the days-old business for $85,000.

Mailing a glitter bomb may seem petty, but the demand points to a larger issue of revenge and its pervasiveness. It is the central theme of countless books, films, hit songs and television shows.

Settling scores marks political, business and personal relationships. And of course, at its most extreme, the desire for vengeance fuels murder and terrorism.

Why are some bent on avenging perceived wrongs, slight or significant, while others can just let it go? In what situations is injustice so keenly felt that retaliation — whether physical violence or a wounding remark — becomes reflexive? There’s been surprisingly little research on this topic given its enormous impact on individuals and society. But what is known is that nobody is above revenge. And rarely is it ever sweet.

“I would say anybody who has a sibling understands the desire for revenge before any other emotion,” said Sunil Nayar, a writer and the executive producer of the ABC television drama “Revenge.”

Indeed, if you want to watch vengeance in the raw, visit any preschool playground for a rousing chorus of “He hit me first!” Evolutionary psychologists say humans and other social animals, including monkeys, elephants, dogs and dolphins, react viscerally to unfairness.

Vengeful acts were what kept our prehistoric ancestors alive. Back then, letting a slap go unpunished marked you as prey. Uncooperative behavior also threatened the survival of the group, which may be why today bystanders feel uncomfortable, if not outraged, when they see injustice and take great satisfaction when offenders get their due. Witness the Twitter thrashing of a Harvard professor who last year harassed the owner of a fam-

“What’s interesting is when we ask people to tell us about a time they got revenge, they can’t recall” — they say “they’d never do that” …. “But then you ask them to tell about a time they got even and they have no problem gleefully telling you about the guy who got his just deserts” ily-run Chinese restaurant for triple monetary damages after a mistaken $4 overcharge.

In modern societies we tend to contract out our revenge for more serious offenses by calling the police or hiring a lawyer. “We have institutionalized revenge so when people feel mistreated they can resort to government or the courts for redress,” said Michael McCullough, a professor of psychology at the University of Miami in Coral Gables, Fla., who studies revenge. (In cultures where people do not trust the authorities to treat them fairly, whether because of a corrupt system or low status, they are more likely to take matters into their own hands.)

But it’s not against the law for your girlfriend to cheat on you or your colleague to take credit for your work, so most of our first-person experience with revenge is usually over relatively trivial, and often emotional, matters. Responses can be overt or covert, harsh or more measured — everything from throwing a punch to posting nude photos of an ex online to maybe just withholding help or a friendly word when you otherwise would.

“What’s interesting is when we ask people to tell us about a time they got revenge, they can’t recall” — they say “they’d never do that,” said Thomas M. Tripp, a professor of management at Washington State University, Vancouver, who studies revenge in the workplace. “But then you ask them to tell about a time they got even and they have no problem gleefully telling you about the guy who got his just deserts.”

Allen Kurzweil said he wasn’t out for revenge when he wrote his recently published and widely publicized memoir, “Whipping Boy: The Forty

Year Search for My Twelve-Year-Old Bully,” which outs his childhood bully and goes on to detail the fellow’s many adult failings and legal troubles. “Revenge suggests a motive on my part,” Mr. Kurzweil said. “But does it redress a sense of karmic balance? Yes.” Call it comeuppance, retribution, karmic balance, getting even or settling a score: Researchers and psychology experts label revenge any act that harms someone who has harmed you.

Intent is slippery since the act can be conscious or subconscious.

“One of the things I often hear when talking to a divorced person is that the best revenge is to lead a good life so I can show him or show her I am fine and have moved on,” said Glen O. Gabbard, a clinical professor of psychiatry at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston. “But they aren’t really moving on because their subsequent relationships and behavior are shaped by wanting that satisfaction.”

While everyone might have an innate urge to get even, there is a broad spectrum of vindictiveness. The social science literature indicates people who were raised in situations where they experienced poverty, crime, violence or just plain unfair treatment have a hair-trigger response to injustice in both imagined scenarios and gamebased experiments.

Not surprisingly, personality traits that predict extreme vindictiveness include narcissism, low self-esteem, pessimism and callousness. The most vengeful responses tend to be provoked when honor or identity is threatened, such as being spurned by a lover or having one’s family or religion maligned. Also likely to generate instinctual outrage is any form of humiliation

or violation of social or moral norms.

Moreover, anything that shatters one’s sense of reality and safety tends to produce a powerful reaction. This is why so many like Mr. Kurzweil have not forgotten childhood bullies who most likely personify their introduction to cruelty.

It’s also why otherwise mild-mannered people might express a desire to savagely punish terrorists like the accused Boston Marathon bomber Dzhokhar Tsarnaev, whose actions defied all they knew or thought they knew about their communities and human behavior.

But the thing is, when people take it upon themselves to exact revenge, not only does it fail to prevent future harm but it also ultimately doesn’t make the avenger feel any better. While they may experience an initial intoxicating rush, research indicates that upon reflection, people feel far less satisfied after they take revenge than they imagined.

Rather than inflicting suffering, it turns out that what victims really want is remorse from the person who wronged them, along with a heartfelt apology, which includes a promise to reform and rectify the situation as much as possible. Ironically, such reconciliation is far less likely after a vengeful act. If anything, vengeance escalates the conflict, leading to an increasingly malicious game of tit for tat.

“The only lesson a person learns after you take your pound of flesh is ‘Wow, you’re a real jerk for doing that,’ ” Professor Tripp said. “The problem with revenge in interpersonal situations is the victim is the accuser, detective, judge, jury and executioner, which inevitably leads to miscarriages of justice.”

Interestingly, people who are the least likely to seek vengeance tend to believe those who wronged them will ultimately get their comeuppance — in this or the afterlife. They let some higher power or fate be the final arbiter or avenger, as it were. It could be framed as forgiveness, letting it go or giving antagonists enough rope to hang themselves.

“I’m not sure if that’s not selfsoothing thinking,” said Dr. Gabbard, the psychiatrist. “But it’s also true that when people treat people badly, eventually there will be negative consequences psychologically and socially, so one way or another they will suffer.”

What goes around, comes around.

China – The Future, After 4,000 Years of History Johan Galtung

Inter Press Service

A

theory serves comprehension, prediction and identification of conditions for change. Seven such historical-cultural pointers will be indicated for China – using the West in general, and the United States in particular, for comparison.

Look at a map combining world history and geography, time and space.

China shows up through 4,000 years as relatively coherent dynasties with complex transitions and the West as empires-birth-growth-peaking-declinefall, like the Roman, British and now U.S. empires – duration vs bubbles that burst, China-centric vs hegemonic.

China marginalised space peopled

by South-West-North-East barbarians – outside the “Chinese pocket” between the Himalayas-Gobi desertTundra-Sea, except for the East China-East Africa silk roads, destroyed by Portugal and England from 1500, colonising Macao-Hong Kong.

A goal of current Chinese foreign policy is to restore the silk roads and lanes: high speed trains for Eurasia, cooperating for mutual and equal benefit, harmony.

The United States marginalises time by disregarding past history, and with the idea that creates future New Beginnings for immigrants, and New History for itself, for other countries, for the whole world.

For Daoism, valid knowledge is holistic and dialectic, based on big, complex units of thought (whole humans, China, the world) riveted by forces and counter-forces, yin-yang, good vs bad, themselves yin-yang, with what is suppressed growing and what is dominant declining until the next turn. The holon may jump from one contradiction tapering off to the next.

For the West, valid knowledge is based on subdivision and accumulation of knowledge about elements, woven together in theories.

For Mao Zedong the basic contradiction was foreign imperialism with landowners vs the people, studentspeasants-workers. The 1949 revolution started a distribution vs growth dialectic with jumps every nine years (1958-1967-1976): Mao’s death, four chaotic years.

For Deng Xiaopeng, it was misery vs lack of growth. The 1980 revolution accumulated capital with farmers near cities and in Shenzen (26 percent annual growth), and re-created merchants. Then nine years distribution vs growth again: from 1989 (Tiananmen!) distribution, 1998, 2007, 2016: new focus on growth.

China draws on Daoist insights, on Confucian ideas of hierarchies with harmony, and Buddhist small community equality: Buddhism for distribution, Confucianism for growth, Daoism for jumps between them.

The West could have drawn upon the positives in Judaism, Christianity and Islam, but focused on negatives for discrimination-prejudice-war-genocide – now as Judeo-Christianity vs Islam – with unused synergies.

Chinese Mandarin rulers combined rule by rules with high culture, over farmers and artisans, and merchants marginalised at the bottom; Western aristocrat rulers combined rule with force, trade and clergy benediction; later to become State, Capital, Intelligentsia. A basic difference was marginalisation vs integration of merchants.

The Chinese Emperors were Sons of the Heaven trading with those who paid tribute to the Emperor; in the West, Heaven was the only God for the whole world at all time, creating and taking life, the monarch being the only

person with a Mandate from God-rex gratia dei-by the grace of God, also entitled to take life, delegated to His army.

The English refused to pay tribute, using opium wars, “gunboat diplomacy”, burning (with the French) the imperial palace instead; China was never violent outside the “pocket” (except when provoked by India in 1962).

The Mandate of the Heaven is lost when People shout in the streets, and regained by addressing their grievances and ideas in the ancient petition system – by “idea democracy, not arithmetic democracy”; the West counting votes in multi-party national fair and free elections.

The Cultural Revolution shouted in the streets against Confucian rule by older men with high education from East China, paving the way for the young, the women and West China – also in 80 million educated “communist” Party members, presumably wise enough to understand the yin-yang dialectics. Tiananmen 1989 was not about democracy, “no votes for uneducated”, but – like Hong Kong (?) – about losing their feudal position to wealthy farmers, merchants, private and state capitalists.

China is China-centric, the deep culture is still holistic-dialectic with a Western surface, the three civilisations synergy is there. So is the Chinese inability to handle the “pocket”: Taiwan-Tibet-UighursMongolians-Vietnamese-Koreans.

But China indeed went global;

WRITE-WING

trading with barbarians; upgrading merchants-traders-money people; accumulating huge wealth. Mao opened up society for huge masses of Chinese, the young, women, and the West; Deng lifted the bottom 300-400 million up 1991-2004, with the communist focus on the needs of the neediest, into capitalism: capi-communism. Beijing 1980: six million bicycles 0 private cars; 2010: 0 vs five million.

The West, out-competed by BRICS (Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa), did more killing than learning.

China’s ruling class, steeped in culture, linked dynastic cycles to yinyang thought, and traders to barbarians. Today’s rulers, deep in money shouting to beget more money, link money to corruption – and speculation? And competition from Latin America+Africa – shouting in the streets may send China packing – and the end of a dynasty is near.

China’s lead is not forever. Nothing ever was. Except, maybe, some China.

A more spiritual dynasty, after materialist “communism”?

Johan Galtung is Professor of Peace Studies and Rector of the TRANSCEND Peace University, and the author of over 150 books on peace and related issues, including '50 Years – 100 Peace and Conflict Perspectives' published by TRANSCEND University Press. In this column, he describes a China marked by relative coherency of dynasties and the West as a series of empires that decline and fall

Letters to the Editor should be sent to: The Morung Express, House No. 4, Duncan Bosti, Dimapur - 797112, Or –email: morung@gmail.com All letters (including those via email) should have the full name and Postal address of the sender.

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.

7

Monday

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

16 February 2015

PERSPECTIVE NEWS ANALYSIS, FEATURE AND DISCOURSE

Misunderstanding Myanmar's military

I

Tim Heinemann Asia Times Online

t is troubling to recently hear of international assertions that the sovereign panacea for what ails Myanmar is the mere "professionalization of the Tatmadaw" - ie, the military. This is profoundly off the mark in grasping what Burmandominated armed forces both have been and still remain: either a brutally armed enterprise or a profit-making military machine.

"Educating leadership out of its dark old ways" reflects the same naivete that the world has witnessed in failed international interventions in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

Internationals, seeing themselves coming to the rescue in Myanmar, are on the same track again.

In order to reach viable solutions for this country with its rich geo-strategic, human and natural resource potential, there are several critical realities to be faced concerning military reform or Security Sector Reform (SSR) as it is referred to in Myanmar’s case. The context for this understanding should be based on the realization that the Tatmadaw is the core of a massive repressive governance apparatus, whose old power brokers are still in power.

In simplest terms, Burman generals have provided the central direction and muscle in designing and wielding the Burman-dominated Army as the lead instrument of government in dominating ethnic minorities. This has been for the specific purpose of controlling ethnics’ ancestral lands rich in most of Myanmar’s natural resources, host to the majority of its hydropower potential, and dominating most of its borders and international trade route access. In other words, the basis for Myanmar’s economy.

In this regard, this is an army and a corresponding government apparatus that have been specifically designed to exploit for profit … not to protect. The notion of "professionalization" of military leaders is hardly aligned with this reality.

As unpleasant as they may be for the international community already engaging in the region, there is no short-cut around facing certain immovable facts. This done, it might then be possible to arrive at viable solutions that respect the highly multi-ethnic nature of this promising nation state.

That said, the first mistake to be corrected comes from shifting away from the Burman versus Non-Burman Ethnics paradigm that promotes a Bad Guy against Good Guy construct no matter which side of the equation one favors. The main con-

test today in Myanmar concerns the government’s acknowledgement of ethnic state rights as the only possible basis for a functioning federal union for enduring stability and prosperity.

First, the focus on the "military in politics" theme misses the mark from the outset as to what the major issue is in Myanmar today. The Tatmadaw, whose raison d’etre is the for-profit internal control of landed ethnic minorities, produces symptoms that are disconcerting: the rigging of the constitution in favor of the military, the immunity of Burmese generals from prosecution, the guarantee of military controls in parliament and in other governmental decision making - all predicated on the imperative to control ethnics’ lands at all costs.

Correctly stated, it is not "military in politics", but instead "military in profitmaking" that merits international attention.

This is because politics, governance and the rest are all tributary to those who control military and economic power. It will take much more than professionalization to address the entrenched mentality, methods and mechanisms of repression still at work today in Myanmar. Politics remain subordinate and tributary to profit.

Second, it should be appreciated that America and the international community involved in Southwest Asia for the past 13 years significantly erred by automatically favoring the establishment and empowerment of strong, but unproven centralized governments and national armed forces.

This ignored the reality of the highly multiethnic and well-armed societies in both Iraq and Afghanistan.

The subsequent failure to creatively engage state and local level governments and their security forces in a fair and balanced way that respected states rights as a counterbalance to central government dominance, is or at least should now be compelling as internationals contemplate constructive next steps in Myanmar.

Third, internationals’ presumption that the Tatmadaw constitutes the sole legitimate security service to be engaged, is conspicuously bereft of logic. The Tatmadaw, which still remains unveted and unaccountable for decades of crimes against humanity, war crimes and human rights violations, hardly meets the baseline credibility criteria as a nation state defense force. Its ongoing attacks against various ethnic groups after decades of the same, does little to elevate the Tatmadaw to a posture of credibility just yet.

The fact that it uses ceasefires and negotiations to strengthen its hold on ethnic lands, reinforces and hardens its forward bases, forward postures its attack helicop-

ters, and conducts intelligence and reconnaissance operations to penetrate ethnic sanctuaries, are all indicators that further cast doubt as to its sincere interest in substantive reformation that in any way threatens its profiteering, and subsequent hold on power and politics.

The all-too-apparent tendency by the international community to tacitly favor the Tatmadaw, while concurrently relegating ethnic armed forces to the margins, reflects a collective poor grasp of reality and history.

Non-Burman ethnics, as the original inhabitants of Burma, preceded Burmans by almost 2,000 years in some cases.

Many championed democratic principles and died for it going all the way back to World War II, when they sided with the United States and Great Britain. They further did most of the dying on the battlefield against Burman’s totalitarian regimes throughout Burma’s pro-democracy era in the protection of their ancestral lands and families. It is significant to note that no Burman general ever took such a stand.

To now automatically give deference the Tatmadaw without seriously and substantially engaging, empowering and developing state and local ethnic governments and their armed forces, does not credibly pass the fundamentals of real politick for multiethnic societies. This imbalance is dangerous to peace and progress.

Implications The line of reasoning that the international community might better pursue is one of "inclusive security sector reform" and not "one-side professionalization of the Tatmadaw". Security sector reform (SSR) logically involves balanced participation by all military, intelligence and police services including Burmans and nonBurman ethnics alike.

It should be appreciated that ethnic armed forces have witnessed Tatmadaw oppression, and have seen Burmans get enormously wealthy and powerful off of this, yet Burman generals are somehow now elevated by the international community as "legitimate enough" for professionalization, because of Myanmar government assertions of "reform on the march".

This is perplexing, to say the least, for those who have held the line against Tatmadaw attacks against ethnic villages for decades, and who continue to defend against Burman generals insisting on controlling ethnics’ lands for profit. Transformation not professionalization, is certainly in order here, as the aggression and profiteering continue.

The larger issue, however, that Burman and non-Burman ethnic generals are col-

The Morung Express

lectively squandering a phenomenal opportunity today based on a single fact: Myanmar has the best potential in all of Southeast Asia for broad-based prosperity.

This is a circumstance not enjoyed by many other nations around the world which have not been so blessed by geography, climate and human diversity.

This is the potential tie that binds all sides today In Myanmar, and is precisely where the international community and America need to focus their constructive engagement. Much of it is about naturally evolving Myanmar out of its Dark Ages approach to "profit for a few", and instead exploring many options on how to optimize prosperity by which all might benefit.

Prosperity over profit Internationals’ professionalization of the Tatmadaw alone will only likely ensure Burmans’ continued exploitation of wellarmed ethnic minorities and thereby assure more conflict in the future. The dirty reality in Myanmar is that "it is all about the land … the control of it and the prospering from its fruits". The international community can run, but it cannot long hide from this reality.

This community can best assist by promoting dialogue, concepts and practical initiatives that respect and balance the rights of all Burman and non-Burman stakeholders. The present top-down programmatics of aid, development and business initiatives that remain under Burman control, is hardly a creative or viable way forward.

There are abundant models around the world of inclusive economic and community development that can be shared, adapted and piloted today in Myanmar in ways that empower ethnic communities respectful of their states rights within a federal union.

These rights are specified in the Montevideo Convention on the Rights and Duties of States, Dec 1933, which is internationally regarded as the authoritative basis for statehood criteria. This elevates the discussion today in Myanmar to the level where it needs to be: One of states’ rights counter-balancing the power of central government….Not the old "Burmans versus nonBurman Ethnics" contest.

If we further look at the verbiage in the UN’s Declaration on the Right to Development, 4 December 1986, its Article 1 addresses the fundamental issue of Development, in which all-important land control is pivotal in Myanmar: Article 1 1. The right to development is an inalienable human right by virtue of which every human person and all peoples are entitled to participate in, contribute to,

and enjoy economic, social, cultural and political development, in which all human rights and fundamental freedoms can be fully realized.

2. The human right to development also implies the full realization of the right of peoples to self-determination, which includes, subject to the relevant provisions of both International Covenants on Human Rights, the exercise of their inalienable right to full sovereignty over all their natural wealth and resources.

Past and present assertions of the need for "international professional engagement of the Tatmadaw" as the center of gravity for reform in Myanmar is true in a narrow sense, but it does not fully convey the approach to be taken for full inclusion of nonBurman ethnic minorities which have long met the criteria as states.

These assertions further fail to address the "land control" issue which should be center stage in developing durable central government - state governance compromises.

The security of commonly shared development prosperity has the potential to be more of a compelling motivator to bring all sides together in thoughtful contemplation of prosperity for all, than does the prospect of mere political dialogue and lopsided professionalization of one part of Myanmar’s multi-facetted, multi-ethnic security sector.

In the end, it will come down to face-toface discussions between military power brokers, not their negotiators, on both sides on the issue of land control and the security of land in a balanced manner so that all sides may prosper. This likely means coming to grips with the balanced professionalization and empowerment of national and state police forces, armed forces, and intelligence services by which both economic and political power at both state and nation state level can be mutually protected.

In the end, this has little to do with Tatamadaw professionalization, and everything to do with its evolution toward an inclusive profit-sharing model that respects ethnic states rights Tim Heinemann is a retired US Army Special Forces officer, and former Dean of Academics, US Army Command and General Staff College, who is now a counter-terrorism trainer for US Department of Defense.

As a lead US Special Operations planner in 2003, he unsuccessfully promoted the concept of inclusion of ethnic minorities in balance of power solutions in Iraq. He has just returned from northern Iraq working on an initiative to assist ethnic Kurds contain ISIS. He has worked with pro-democracy ethnic minorities in Burma since 2004.

POLL RESULTS

Do you agree with NSF that the Non-Detention Policy does not suit the Nagas at this very juncture?

Some of those who voted YES had this to say: • Inadequate pre-implementation ground work physically and mentally. Hence doing more harm than good.

• Yes, Because it led to non interest in their study.

• It is very true that at this juncture NON-DETENTION POLICY is not applicable for our people.

Please don't mind but because of this policy, students have set their minds that they will never be failed. And this could be one of the demerits of quality education. As of me, I appreciate the adoption of this policy but this is not the right time.

• It dilutes the very basic concept of quality education.

• Yes, because students are taking study very lightly.

• It is against the interest of the indigenous people.

Nagaland is becoming a part of Bangladesh. Look at Dimapur Railway Station as prove!!!

• Most of the students before class IX are not serious in their studies or life because of NDP. Our floating generation are lost and have no sense of responsibility • Yea. As a teacher in village school, I have experienced that it really spoil the children career.

• If a teacher imparts quality education and knowledge to the students, the Non-Detention Policy won't affect the students career. With non-detention policy the teachers might be required to work harder and with more dedication. But they know better. The NSF office knows how most of the govt. schools and teachers in Nagaland perform their duties (matric exam results). So I think the NSF is right • I am totally against this system...the whole of Nagaland district should not be reflected with kohima town and dimapur alone..introducing this policy is a folly on the part of those most respected officers and advanced classes. they should conduct a thorough study from the very grassroot level before being implemented..they thought that our state is like those advance towns and cities where their children are studying with the stolen money meant for the poor underprivileged sections of our state which infact, our state lack even the basic amenities of school for the student community. it is disheartening that some government primary doesn't even have bench for the learner..

• Yes... Becoz mst of the studnts in rural areas took advntages of the system n nevr bother to study n when a teacher cnduct test mst of the stdnts faild the tst n as per da RTI act the teacher usd to retch n cndct retst... Bt sme nvr pay any intrst in thier stdies, so we av to educte the parnts/guardians of the stdnts n nt blamng the teachrs only...

• Yes. The objective of Universal Education has to be realised by introducing the right policy not by killing hardwork and sincerity.

• Yes, though no detention policy was implemented with the right intent, it is neither practical nor applicable to Nagaland at this moment.

• By introducing, non-detention policy students have got neglected in their studies at this very present juncture. So, it will be better to eliminate this sys-

tem taken the right decision by the highest apex of evaluation thereby posing more psychological student's body in our state. treats to the students.

• Yes, students depend only on attendance but not serious in study because their final result being declared Some of those who voted qualified by the time when their took their admission. OTHERS had this to say: • Non detention policy doubles the work load of Some of those who voted no had this to say: teachers. How can we expect a dull student • No. The Right to Education is a liberal step taken who can't manage to secure the mininum mark by the Government of India to promote quality ed(ie:- 8marks) would be able to study for the next ucation for all strata of the society. However, in our higher class to which he/she s promoted. NonNagaland, the RTE has only exposed that our govdetention policy s applied from cl-1 upto cl-8 so, ernment primary and higher secondary schools are another problem dat s faced by the teachers in alnot prepared because our system is so poor. So it most every school is- evn the dullest of the dullest is not surprising that the student is promoted to cl-9 NSF is complaining about and what happens is dat the policy. It is not the sum students have to sit in policy which is bad, it is cl-9 for the next two- three our schools that have not years as repeaters. reached the standard to • The problem of compulmeet such liberal policies. sory promoting to the next • Non-detention policy is class does not arise if we related to Right to Eduproperly understand the cation Act,2009 which concept of continuous and is universalization of elcomprehensive evaluation. ementary education pro• Non detention policy in viding free education to Naga school's is like rearall children between the ing broiler chickens only to age group 6 -14.In this be slaughtered later. system assessment is • The educational based on continuous and policy which we are praccomprehensive evaluaticing is not applicable in tion. Weak students are a state like ours. When given remedial meacome to education, we are sures in the form of refar behind with developed teach and retest. Accordcountries/state. It may be YES no OTHER ing to research done, this applicable for some urban system is more applicable for students in terms of schools where they have all the facilities to cater academic performance and psychological confithe needs of students' development. But when we dence. So this system is more applicable than the consider to the village level where the schools are previous terminal examination system of summarunning with shortage of Teachers has been adtive evaluation. versely affected. Most of the students are from ru• The non detention policy, if thought to be better than ral/village background their carer are ruining with the terminal system, by the learned policy makers present educational system. Drop out students will than we should accept it and try to go ahead along increase if present education system is not correctwith other states. We should eradicate the 'low self ed at the earliest. Furthermore, the practice of Non esteem' in us. Rather, I believe in "if they can, why Detention Policy to boost up literacy rate has nothcan't I?" both parents and Teachers needs to labor ing to do with our society rather it spoils the career hard along with the students in the terminal system of the students. As a concern citizen, it is worth to as well as the Non Detention Policy. At the same have debate with present educational system with time, in the Terminal System there are some students regard to implementation of Non Detention Policy who ends up their educational career once they are and CCE. Both of these are adversely affecting the detained and before realizing the importance of eduyoung learners. Quality and Competitive spirit has cation. However, given a chance, a student may be been losing amongst the students. Co-curricular able to realize and move forward with more efforts. activities and other related activities which are es• This policy gives students more psychological consential for the development of the learners are set fidence and provide interactive environment inaside because today's educational system is too side the class. Teacher can easily detect students much oriented to bookish knowledge and passing weakness and take remedial measures to improve out Exam. Parents give less attention to their child students performance. Whereas no form of rebecause of the above Govt. Policy. Considering medial measures can be taken in the old system all these a drastic change has to be made in our

83%

08%

09%

educational system.

• The Non-detention Policy is not useless per se but I partly agree with the NSF stance that Nagaland is not ready for this system. The quality of the current system is benchmarked on the lowest common ability of a class group. It does not encourage students to do their best. Also, Science & Math skills do not come naturally to humans. They need to be learned the hard way and unfortunately the current system do not support learning of these special mental skills. Another drawback in the current NBSE curriculum is that there is nothing rewarding for Students with special ability. The Advanced Math and English courses are no longer available.

Intelligent students need challenging curriculum and when the curriculum and assessment system is targeted on the ward with least ability, intelligent students are left out. Given the declining skill standards of our school students - many can't even spell 4 to 5 lettered words or know the math table by the time they matriculate - it's high time that NBSE review the current pedagogic system to suit our needs and goals and not blindly adopt systems designed for and by others.

• It will be good to know the details/findings of research conducted by NSF on this policy. Only then we can arrive at some conclusion. (They didn't give the figure of drop outs before the introduction of NDP although the figure of class 9 drop outs was mentioned. Another pointer could be the strength of trained teachers in the state and the teacher-student ratio. And what about orientation course for the students, teachers, parents, society??? Eg: forget the other three, many teachers have not understood the essence of RTE, CCE, etc). Because we may never get a 'perfect' policy that will be relevant for everyone and is without flaws. To make long story short, this policy suits me fine because my students are evaluated continuously and comprehensively (holistic) and as a teacher it keeps me on my toes:-) • Our literacy rate maybe high but Nagas are just budding now in education. applying educational policies of Advance state will not take us at par with others. non-detention policy is just a short-cut policy towards achieving high literacy rate. better be true to ourselves than pretending to be someone else. Govt should looked into the grassroot level n see that implementation of educational policies are adhered to because implementing agencies are corrupting the system. the public must also take active part in the educational process too • Constitute a panel and review the policy, I suppose.

Looks like few share my kind of view so maybe this NDP might end up in the waste-bin unfortunately:-( • Government of Nagaland should formulate policies based on the existing situation in Nagaland and immediately put an end to the cut-paste of central government policies which have been designed for the schools in mainland India.

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

8

Dimapur

NATIONAL

Monday 16 February 2015

The Morung Express

India can lead fight against global warming: Modi

NeW DelHI, February 15 (PtI): Keen to tap renewable sources to bridge energy deficit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called for innovation and research to make solar and wind power affordable, even as companies like NTPC, Suzlon and Reliance Power pledged mega investments in such areas.

He also said India is working on building a consortium of 50 countries with abundant solar radiation, to pool research and technological advancements to improve its accessibility to the poor and in the remote areas.

Inaugurating the first Renewable Energy Global Investors Meet (RE-Invest), Modi also talked about "seven horses of energy" and said the country has so far focused on thermal, gas, hydro and nuclear power and efforts should now shift to solar, wind and biogas.

Way back in 2007, Modi as the then Gujarat Chief Minister had said that the state would "ride the chariot of energy which will be pulled by seven horses".

On the first day of the three-day event, as many as 293 companies today committed to set up plants to generate 266 GW of renewable energy in 5 years, while banking major SBI said it will finance 15000 MW renewable energy in five years.

Describing India's

Himacha and Telangana awarded for promoting renewable energy

Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi speaking at the inauguration of the first Renewable Energy Global Investors Meet (RE-Invest) in New Delhi on February 15.

thrust towards renewable energy production as an effort to ensure universal energy access for India's poor, Modi said India has graduated from megawatts to gigawatts in terms of renewable energy production.

"The fruits of development will not reach the common man until energy reaches last household of the country," he said. "In this age of globalization, we have no option but to make a quantum leap in energy production and connectivity."

He suggested setting up of hybrid energy parks in areas with abundant sun radiation as well as wind potential to save on transmission and power evacuation infrastructure cost.

The Prime Minister also called for developing domestic manufacturing of renewable energy equipment to create jobs.

Suzlon and Welspun committed to set up 11,000 MW each, while NTPC and Hindustan Power Projects pledged to generate 10,000

MW of power each from green sources. Renew Power outlined plans for 11,500 MW and Sun Edison for 15,000 MW. Gamesa committed to setting up 7,500 MW of renewable plants.

Anil Ambani-led Reliance Power committed 6000 MW. Minister of State for Power, Coal and New and Renewable Energy, Piyush Goyal said India will become 'renewable energy capital of the world.

Modi suggested installing solar panels over all wa-

ter bodies as well as using them to power irrigation pumps, while solar photovoltaic cells can be used on roof-tops. Goyal said this innovative idea was used in Gujarat during Modi's stint as Chief Minister there.

Conserving energy, Modi said, is the need of the hour. "The more energy we save, the more we can save the next generations.

Energy can be saviour of generations."

He said the cost of electricity from solar pho-

NeW DelHI, February 15 (IaNS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday honoured Himachal Pradesh and Telangana for their outstanding contribution in the field of renewable energy.

State Power Minister Sujan Singh Pathania received the award at the Renewable Energy Global Investors Meet and Expo (Re-Invest) here. Speaking on the occasion, Pathania urged the central government to continue subsidy on the renewable energy devices.

He said the state was implementing various programmes to popularise the renewable energy resources which include small hydroelectric projects, solar water heaters, and photovoltaic lights.

He said the state has given special emphasis on popularising these resources in the tribal and far-flung areas.

He said 478 small hydroelectric projects have been allotted to the entrepreneurs and 150 more such projects would be allotted in the future.

Pathania said the state is also giving priority for setting up solar power plants to-voltaic cells has come down from Rs 20 per unit to Rs 7.50 and research and innovation can help bring it down further.

In the rural areas, he stressed on the need for solar pumps to reduce input costs for farmers. Farmers can then use micro-irrigation to conserve water and enhance crop yield.

He called for sustained technological research in renewable energy; and a thrust on domestic equipment manufacturing for

and so far a 200 kilowatt solar power plant has been set up at Baru Sahib University in Sirmaur district.

The solar power plants have been also established in the offices of all deputy commissioners which is a unique initiative by the state government. He said more than 51,000 solar lights have been installed in the snow-bound and hard areas.

Telangana also received an award for outstanding performance in promotion of renewable energy. Prime Minister Narendra Modi presented the award to state's Energy Minister Jagdish Reddy. The award was given by ministry of new and renewable energy to the state for its performance during the period 2010-2014.

The state added 809 MW of renewable energy capacity during the four years.

According to an official release, the prime minister praised Telangana for its initiatives and policies in the area of renewable energy. Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao said the prime minister's word of praise for the state would inspire it to do more.

renewable energy as part of the "Make in India" initiative.

The UN has declared 2014-24 as the Decade of Sustainable Energy. Its Sustainable Energy for All (SE4ALL) initiative signed a memorandum of understanding with the Gujarat government last month to support the UN objective to make sustainable energy accessible for all.

Currently, 15% of the global population (about a billion people), including

250 million in India have no access to electricity and 2.6 billion lack modern cooking facilities. They depend on polluting solid fuels.

The India-US nuclear agreement concluded during President Barrack Obama's visit here has eased the way for foreign firms to develop nuclear energy in India.

The government has revised upwards the target of solar power generation from 20,000 MW by 2022 to 100,000 MW by 2020.

Pakistan for meaningful dialogue with India Sri Lanka's new president arrives in India ISlamabaD, February 15 (IaNS): Pakistan stands for "meaningful and serious dialogue" with India, a top official has said, after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to his Pakistani counterpart Nawaz Sharif.

Reacting with "cautious optimism", Sartaj Aziz, the advisor on foreign affairs and national security, said India took the step due to persuasion by the UN and some countries, the Daily Times reported Sunday.

Aziz said Modi's tele-

phone call and the decision to send Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar to Islamabad was a good start in breaking the ice between the two countries. But whether it would lead to the actual resumption of a meaningful dialogue remained to be seen and depended on the talks between the foreign secretaries.

"I am cautiously optimistic now that visit has been resumed. Obviously there would be discussion on the agenda scope of the dialogue, modalities and

the timeline. Once the dialogue process starts, it gathers its own momentum."

Aziz said it was the result of persuasion by the UN and other countries that India was forced to reinitiate the dialogue process and "may be some internal dynamics of Kashmir played some role".

Regarding Kashmir, he said there was no major change in Pakistan's policy. But "we are ready to talk on other issues" in the hope that the issue would be addressed seriously.

Pakistan expects India to make a "serious resumption of dialogue", Aziz said.

"It has to be composite and comprehensive dialogue."

Aziz acknowledged that Pakistan had hardened its stand on several issues, including Kashmir, after the suspension of talks as the peace process "has not moved". He added: "There is tension on the borders, you can't just ignore it." He said Pakistan could no longer say that it wouldn't insist on the UN resolutions on Kashmir.

Fifty-seven percent of TB patients given wrong drugs mumbaI, February 15 (tNN): Here's why drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) breeds freely in Mumbai: Patients don't get appropriate medication. A new study collating information from eight hospitals and treatment centres across Mumbai, Thane and Navi Mumbai found patients were given drugs that they were resistant to.

The study, published in PLOS ONE medical journal recently, looked at 340 patients suffering from multi-drug resistant (MDR) TB between 2005 and 2013."We found only 29.4% of the patients labeled as MDR-TB were actually MDR-TB patients, who were resistant to only two drugs,'' said Dr Alpa Dalal, a chest medicine specialist attached to the BMC-run Sewri TB Hospital and Jupiter Hospital, Thane.

Worse, more than half the patients were in pre-XDR stage, she said.

As the name suggests, pre-XDR is a stage between MDR-TB and XDR-TB (extensively drug-resistant TB) where the patient is resistant to two drugs as well as a type of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones. "We found 56% of the patients were in the pre-XDRTB stage but were being given drugs meant for MDR-TB patients," she added. The study was commissioned to study patterns of resistance to drugs among city's MDR-TB patients.

It was a retrospective study of patients from Jupiter Hospital (Thane), Bhatia Hospital (Tardeo), D Y Patil Hospital (Nerul), Fortis Hospital (Mulund), L H Hiranandani Hospital (Powai) and Lilavati Hospital (Bandra) as well as a clinic run by Medecins Sans Fron-

'Education must for growth of society'

Nagrota bagWaN (HImacHal PraDeSH), February 15 (IaNS): Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh Sunday said education was an essential requisite for the growth and development of the society.

"For the last two-and-half months, I am visiting every nook and corner of the state and particularly Kangra, Una, Kullu and Chamba regions to personally see the pace of development," Virbhadra Singh said while addressing a public meeting here in Kangra district. Earlier, he laid the foundation stones for and inaugurated various projects to the tune of Rs.25 crore in Kangra district.

He said: "Education is the foremost need for growth and development of an individual and any society. The present state government has opened 17 colleges -- and that too in rural areas -- besides many schools." "Our motto is to educate the girl child," the chief minister said.

He said that at present all the district headquarters have regional hospitals and many educational institutions. Himachal Pradesh Irrigation and Public Health Minister Vidya Stokes said the government was pursuing the Centre for funds and the state's share under MNREGA. Himachal Pradesh Transport Minister G.S. Bali thanked the chief minister for laying the foundation stones of and inaugurating development projects worth Rs.25 crore in his assembly segment particularly in the Changar area.

He said Himachal Pradesh was a special category state but the flow of adequate financial assistance from the central government was not sufficient.

tieres (MSF) in the western suburbs of Mumbai.

BMC's former executive health officer Dr Arun Bamne, a consultant with the Mumbai TB control programme, however said the city didn't have a certified facility to diagnose XDR-TB until three years back.

This meant patients couldn't be easily distinguished from MDR-TB to XDR-TB then. Another public hospital doctor who didn't want to be identified said the study seems too small to be applied to the entire population of patients.

The study showed 80% of the 340 patients enrolled in the study were young and in the 16-35 age bracket.

"This group has the highest potential to spread the resistant bug in the population,'' said Dr Dalal.

NeW DelHI, February 15 (aP): Sri Lanka's new leader is underlining India's importance as a regional ally by making it his first official foreign destination as president, following years of uneasy relations with New Delhi and international pressure to speed up post-civil war reconciliation efforts at home.

President Maithripala Sirisena's four-day visit, beginning with his arrival Sunday evening, has been welcomed by Indian officials, who are planning a ceremony and banquet for him Monday and toptier meetings befitting the countries' "unique" historical and cultural ties, Indian foreign ministry spokesman Syed Akbaruddin said.

Relations between India and Sri Lanka had become tense in recent years, as China grew cozier with the island nation, long considered by India as being within its traditional sphere of influence.

"We will be making a new beginning with India," government minister and spokesman Lakshman Kiriella told reporters in Sri Lanka on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Sirisena will be looking this week to boost bilateral trade

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, in white, accompanied by wife Jayanthi Sirisena is welcomed by Indian officials as he arrives at the airport in New Delhi on Sunday, February 15. Sri Lanka's new leader is underlining India's importance as a regional ally by making it his first official foreign destination as president, following years of uneasy relations with New Delhi and international pressure to speed up post-civil war reconciliation efforts at home. (AP Photo)

with India, now standing at around $1 billion. He is to visit a Buddhist temple complex in the eastern state of Bihar before traveling to the southern Indian city of Tirupati later Tuesday and returning to his country Wednesday.

He and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi are also likely to focus talks on Sri Lanka's efforts to establish reconciliation in the wake of its long civil war, which Sirisena has named a priority for his government.

"This is an important issue. We will discuss issues relating to the reconcilia-

tion and reconstruction in Sri Lanka," Akbarrudin, the foreign ministry spokesman, told reporters in New Delhi on Friday.

Rajapaksa had been widely popular in the Sinhalese-majority nation for ending the war, but became increasingly unpopular abroad as he refused international calls for an independent investigation into alleged human rights violations during the war, saying a government inquiry would be sufficient.

Many had expected that Sirisena would agree to an independent probe, but

his government has said it wants time to set up its own judicial mechanism.

Thousands of civilians are suspected to have died in the final months of the war when government forces crushed the Tamil Rebels' quarter-century fight for an ethnic homeland.

On Saturday, Sirisena urged the Tamil diaspora to be patient, noting that progress has been made through the release of private lands held by the military, but saying "there is a need for necessary time to achieve" full reconciliation and unity within society.

'Unhealthy, excessive tech use affecting kids' development'

KolKata, February 15 (IaNS): Pestered by his parents to go out and play, 10-year-old Ashwin refused to budge from his gaming console. It was only after his harried parents promised more gaming time that he ventured out - that too for a bit.

Instances of conflicts between parents and their tech-obsessed wards, poor social interaction and worsening of basic skills are some of the consequences of addiction to and excessive use of technology among children in India, experts warn. And it is not just a child health issue but a public health concern as well, National Indian Public Health Association President J. Ravi Kumar said.

"Technologies like the internet, smartphones and electronic gadgets like gaming consoles, tablets and the like are essential for development, but the sideeffects of overuse is a concern for public health," Ravi Kumar told IANS. He said this has brought to the fore the importance for par-

ents to be aware of the extent to which they themselves spend time on gadgets. "Children tend to follow what their elders do. So when they see parents working for long hours on their laptops, they are bound to get influenced.

"This, in turn, results in conflicts: when parents try to limit their children's exposure to electronic devices, they are smart enough to question why the elders are tinkering with their laptops so much," Ravi Kumar said. Ashwin's parents, both employed in the IT industry in Kolkata, agree.

"We do need to monitor our usage, especially in presence of Ashwin," M. Bhargav (names changed) told IANS. While for pre-teens like Ashwin, the attractions are mainly video games and gaming apps, for teens, social networking and internet activity (on smartphones or computers) are the top draw, said Manoj Kumar Sharma, associate professor at the Department of Clinical Psychology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore.

Sharma said the institute's SHUT clinic (Service for Healthy Use of Technology) receives three to four mails per week from other states of India - from parents of teenagers - enquiring about the service as well as possibility of online help or telephone counselling. "We get users of video gaming, mobile texting, social networking sites and pornography in the age group of 14-19 years, belonging to mid-to-upper socio-economic class.

"They are predominantly male and indulge in online activities on their smartphone or at home computers or cyber cafes and have low to zero knowledge of cyber laws," Sharma told IANS. Counselling was sought by parents in the wake of declining academic grades, behavioural changes in the form of irritability or angry outbursts when restricted in usage of technology by adults, said Sharma.

"Another consequence is decreasing contact with family, inclination to be hooked on to ITenabled devices and indulgence

in high risk behavior due to online pornography. In these situations parents should explain to their children why too much technology is inhibitive. They should limit the time of exposure to gadgets and spend more time with them.

"Restricting them from using devices in totality is not the solution in this age," Sharma added.

What about technology-enabled education processes? Can students today have a holistic educational experience sans the intrusion of virtual world? Do the cons sideline the pros of technology in child welfare? Bani Bhattacharya, associate professor, Centre For Educational Technology, Indian Institute of Technology -Kharapgpur, said the benefits of playing video games and the like are usually not incorporated in the educational set-up.

"Though it is known computer games and the like help in strengthening reflexes, multitasking and other functions, such things are not much wanted in educational set-up. "Parents are mostly worried about marks and

academic excellence. There are good sides to games also, but that is not reflected in the educational curriculum of schools," Bhattacharya told IANS. Connecting the dots, awardwinning educationist Devi Kar highlighted the category of small children who are also adept at handling devices. However, she said, one must also consider the fact that they are born in the era of high-end technology and a balanced approach must be taken while using gadgets in classrooms and more interaction with nature should be encouraged.

"Small children too love to fiddle and know what buttons to press to get what they want.

There is nothing wrong with it as long as they are not deprived of other things. They are born into this kind of world. "But we have to be very careful about the addiction facet. Schools can help.

There should be judicious combination of traditional methods and use of gadgets," Kar, the director of Kolkata's Modern High School for Girls, told IANS.

InternatIonal

the Morung express

Monday 16 February 2015

Dimapur

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Ukraine Cease-fire - both sides claim violations

KIEV, FEbruary 15 (aP): A cease-fire was declared in eastern Ukraine at a minute after midnight Sunday, kindling slender hopes of a reprieve from a conflict that has claimed more than 5,300 lives.

But within two hours of the cease-fire’s scheduled start, the warring sides were already trading accusations of fresh attacks.

International attention will be focused in the coming days on the strategic railway hub of Debaltseve, where Ukrainian government forces have for weeks been fending off severe onslaughts from pro-Russian separatists.

As Associated Press journalist traveling toward Debaltseve from the north on Sunday morning heard explosions from about 25 kilometers (15 miles) away.

A Ukrainian officer, whose unit’s tanks were parked by the side of the road, said it was the sound of rebels firing. This could not be confirmed independently.

Donetsk, the main large city under separatist control, was quiet on Sunday morning with no shelling from government forces, the Donetsk News Agency, a separatist mouthpiece, reported, citing the city administration.

The U.S. State Department said images from eastern Ukraine offer “credible pieces of evidence” that the Russian military has deployed larger amounts of artillery and multiple rocket launchers around Debaltseve to shell Ukrainian forces.

“We are confident that these are Russian military,

Ukrainian government soldiers rest by armored vehicle on the road between the towns of Dabeltseve and Artemivsk, Ukraine on Sunday, February 15. International attention will be focused in the coming days on the strategic railway hub of Debaltseve, where Ukrainian government forces have for weeks been fending off severe onslaughts from pro-Russian separatists. A cease-fire was declared in eastern Ukraine, kindling slender hopes of a reprieve from a conflict that has claimed more than 5,300 lives. (AP Photo)

not separatist systems,” State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said in a statement Saturday.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko issued a cease-fire order in a live broadcast for all the country’s armed forces to hold their fire from one minute after midnight Kiev time (2201 GMT, 5:01 p.m. EST).

Accusations of violations were quick to follow.

Ukrainian security services chief Valentyn Nalyvaichenko said one infringement was reported about 50 minutes after the deadline. Artillery salvoes were fired from an area that Nalyvaichenko said is under the control of a Cossack unit manned by Rus-

Reduced blood flow to brain increases repeat of stroke risk

NEw yorK, FEbruary 15 (IaNS): Patients, who have low blood flow to the back of the brain, are at increased risk of recurrent stroke, a six-year-long trial has found.

“We found that patients with low blood flow had a 22 percent risk of recurrent stroke in the first 12 months, versus a four percent risk for patients whose blood flow was not low,” said principal investigator Sepideh AminHanjani, professor of neurological surgery at the University of Illinois’ college of medicine, the US. At 24 months, the risk for patients with low blood flow was up to 30 percent versus 13 percent for other patients.

Patients with blockage of the blood vessels that supply blood to the back of the brain - a condition known as vertebrobasilar disease or VBD - are at risk of having a stroke or temporary symptoms of a stroke known as transient ischemic attack.

The risk of a repeat stroke associated with VBD may be tied to several factors, including the degree to which the blockage reduces the blood flow to the brain.

Patients with VBD can have blockage ranging from partial to complete, which affects blood flow accordingly.

The trial sought to identify patients with VBD and low blood flow to see if they had a higher risk of recurrent stroke than those with normal blood flow to the back of the brain.

For the study, adult stroke patients were assessed for low posterior blood flow and followed for one to two years, an average of 22 months.

The researchers also developed a specialised software to analyse blood flow using standard magnetic resonance imaging.

“The ultimate goal is to find what treatments might be most effective for each patient,” Hanjani noted.

The researchers presented their findings at the International Stroke Conference in Nashville, Tennessee in the US.

Painkiller abuse ups risk of depression

NEw yorK, FEbruary 15 (IaNS): Patients who frequently consume opioid medicines or painkillers to manage chronic pain are more likely to experience depression, says a new research.

Previous research had found depression to be linked with patients’ opioid use, but this study has identified the association between an increase in opioid use and an increase in depression.

Jeffrey Scherrer, associate professor for family and community medicine at the Saint Louis University in the US, and his colleagues studied questionnaires from 355 patients who reported chronic low back pain initially and at one-year and two-year follow ups.

The patients also reported the number of years they had been suffering from chronic pain.

“Better understanding of temporal relationship between opioids and depression, and the dose of opioids that places patients at risk for depression may inform prescribing, pain management and improve outcomes for patients with chronic, non-cancer pain,” Scherrer wrote.

Contributing factors for cases of new-onset depression, according to this study and previous research conducted, may include both the amount of daily morphine exposure and the duration of exposure.

“This would expand intervention targets to limit the risk of depression in patients who need long-term opioid therapy,” he added. The study appeared in the journal Pain.

sian citizens.

Meanwhile, rebels accused the Ukrainians of deploying artillery shortly after midnight.

Donetsk News Agency, a separatist mouthpiece, cited senior rebel defense official Eduard Basurin as saying the Ukrainian forces garrisoned in Debaltseve fired artillery and mortars at rebel positions.

“In the interests of preventing the death of the civilian population, precise fire is being deployed toward the enemy’s positions,” Basurin was cited as saying.

The hours before the cease-fire were marked by ferocious battles around Debaltseve, as Ukrainian

armed forces undertook desperate attempts to gain control over a highway linking the town to their rearguard.

Speaking to his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov by telephone Saturday, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry expressed concern about what he called efforts

by Russia and the separatists to cut off Debaltseve in advance of the cease-fire.

Separatist fighters insist they have fully encircled Debaltseve, which they say allows them to claim the territory as theirs. But Poroshenko said in his televised address that the road to the town remains open and that Ukrainian troops there had been resupplied

with ammunition.

An undated satellite image issued by the Ukrainian government showed a five-kilometer- (threemile-) long cloud of black smoke hovering above Debaltseve, evidence of what it said was the scale of rebel shelling in the hours before the scheduled start of the cease-fire.

Entire swathes of the war-stricken regions of Donetsk and Luhansk were caught up in artillery duels over the weekend.

Officials in the key government-held port city of Mariupol reported an array of rocket attacks hitting areas near the city Saturday morning.

Mariupol is on the Azov

Sea and concerns are strong that the Russian-backed separatists aim to seize it to create a land corridor that runs between mainland Russia and the Crimean Peninsula, which Russia annexed 11 months ago.

Towns distant from the front line were not spared.

Projectiles rained down Saturday afternoon on the government-held town of Artemivsk, 40 kilometers (25 miles) north of Debaltseve, striking a school, which rapidly burned to the ground.

Russia has repeatedly denied Western claims that it has sent troops and equipment to aid the rebels. But on Saturday, the U.S. ambassador to

Ukraine, Geoffrey Pyatt, posted on Twitter what he said were satellite photos showing Russian artillery systems near the town of Lomuvatka, 20 kilometers (12 miles) northeast of Debaltseve.

The images could not immediately be verified.

In a telephone call with Poroshenko hours before the start of the cease-fire period, President Barack Obama expressed his “deep concern about the ongoing violence, particularly in and around Debaltseve.”

The White House said in a statement that the two leaders “emphasized the pressing need” for all parties to implement the cease-fire and agreed to remain in contact in the coming days. Obama also spoke with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who took a lead role in negotiating the cease-fire agreement.

The deal was hammered out in a marathon talks this week between Merkel and her counterparts from Ukraine, Russia and France in the Belarusian capital, Minsk.

German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier said failure to maintain the peace would cost the region and the people of eastern Ukraine “a high price.”

“If we miss this opportunity, the chance to defuse the serious conflict in eastern Ukraine by way of negotiations will be gone for a long time,” Steinmeier said.

Speaking in Kiev on Saturday afternoon, Poroshenko said his government would take urgent mea-

sures if the Minsk agreement collapsed.

“If there is no peace, we may have to take the decision to impose martial law,” he said. “In this event, martial law will be imposed not only in the Donetsk and Luhansk (regions), but across the whole country.”

Cessation of hostilities is only the first in a series of planned steps agreed to in Minsk.

Withdrawals of heavy weaponry from the front line, creating a zone roughly 50-140 kilometers (30-85 miles) wide, depending on the caliber of the weapons, are to begin Monday and be completed in two weeks. No provisions are envisioned for the withdrawal of troops.

The peace plan also requires the Ukrainian government to resume paying pensions and state benefits to citizens in rebel-held territory. Ukraine’s financial blockade against the rebels has led to a catastrophic collapse in living standards in eastern Ukraine, depriving the poorest of any immediate means of support.

The fighting started in April after armed pro-Russian separatists took control of towns and official buildings in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. The seizures began after Russia-friendly president Viktor Yanukovych was driven from power in the wake of months of protests in the capital, Kiev.

The separatists claim the new Ukrainian authorities are fascist-inspired and aim to suppress the heavily ethnic Russian population in the east.

Sri Lanka must ensure justice, Iran negotiator directed to control accountability, Amnesty says temper in dialogue with John Kerry NEw DElhI, FEbruary 15 (IaNS): Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena’s ambitious plans for reform and reconciliation should lay special emphasis on ensuring justice, accountability and the rule of law, Amnesty International India said Sunday.

Sirisena arrives here Sunday on a three-day official visit during which he will meet Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bilateral talks. “Sirisena has an extraordinary opportunity to improve relations between communities in Sri Lanka, and usher in an era of true reconciliation based on justice, equality, freedom and dignity,” said Shemeer Babu, Programmes Director at Amnesty International India.

“The new government’s 100-day reform plan has generated a lot of optimism. Sirisena has taken important steps to restore the independence of the judiciary and other important institutions. “It is crucial that the government does not neglect issues of justice and accountability.

“Sirisena acknowledged in his Independence Day speech that Sri Lanka had failed to heal divisions between ethnic groups since the end of the brutal civil war,” the statement said. “His government must now act to end discrimination and impunity, ensure impartial investigations into

human rights abuses, and protect free speech. “It is important that the international community supports Sri Lanka through these initiatives, beginning with India, which is one of its closest and most important partners. “Prime Minister Modi should extend all support to President Sirisena and work with him to push reforms in the crucial areas of justice and accountability.”

Sirisena has promised that Sri Lanka will conduct domestic investigations into alleged crimes under international law, including allegations that both Sri Lankan forces and the LTTE committed war crimes during the armed conflict. These investigations must be conducted promptly and in good faith, with independence, adequate resources and effective witness protection, the rights body said. Domestic investigations will not negate the need for continued international action and engagement to ensure justice and accountability in Sri Lanka, Amnesty said.

The government must cooperate with the UN, including the OHCHR Investigation on Sri Lanka (OISL). “The new Sri Lankan government should extend the support and cooperation to the ongoing UN investigations that was missing while the previous government was in power,” said the statement.

TEhraN, FEbruary 15 (aP): Iran’s foreign minister has been told by the country’s supreme leader to control his temper during nuclear talks with Western diplomats, Iranian media reported Saturday.

Mohammad Javad Zarif admitted that he has often raised his voice during meetings with U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry - sometimes so much their bodyguards would enter the room to make sure everything was all right.

Zarif said Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has the final say on all state matters in Iran, told him to speak softly and with a smile - the same as he would in public. Zarif said in comments published in the Shargh daily newspaper Saturday that Khamenei made the recommandations during a private meeting earlier this week.

“The exalted Supreme Leader told me not to quarrel ... he asked: ‘Why do you scream? Smile and speak your mind,’” the newspaper quoted Zarif as telling a group of Tehran high school students.

In this Jan. 14, 2015 file picture US Secretary of State John Kerry, left, listens to Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, as they walk in the city of Geneva, Switzerland, during a bilateral meeting ahead of nuclear discussions.

(AP File Photo)

Iran and the world powers - the U.S., Russia, China, Britain, France and Germany - hope to reach a rough deal on Iran’s disputed nuclear program by March and a final agreement by June 30. Zarif and his team enjoy public support from Khamenei but Iran’s top leader has also warned that no agreement is better than an agreement that doesn’t meet Iran’s interests.

Issues still being debated, according to Iranian officials,

include the size of Iran’s future enriched uranium output. The U.S. insists that it be cut in half; Tehran is ready for a reduction of only around 20%, according to the diplomats, speaking on condition of anonymity because they weren’t allowed to brief the media.

Zarif was recently criticized by some parliamentarians for being photographed taking a friendly walk in Geneva with Kerry during a break in negotiations.

Danish police kill man believed behind shootings in Copenhagen This image made from TV2 via Associated Press News video shows armed police guard behind police tape near a synagogue where police reported a shooting in downtown Copenhagen, Denmark, Sunday, February 15. One person was shot in the head and two police officers were shot in the arms and legs, police said. (AP Photo)

CoPENhaGEN, FEbruary 15 (aP): Danish police shot and killed a man early Sunday who likely carried out shooting attacks at a free speech event and a synagogue in Copenhagen that left two people dead.

Investigator Joergen Skov told reporters that “nothing at this point suggests there were other perpetrators” in the shootings

that also left five police officers wounded.

The dramatic events that unfolded in Copenhagen stirred fears that another terror spree was underway in a European capital a month after 17 people were killed in Paris attacks.

Skov said the gunman was killed in a firefight with police in the Noerrebro district of Copen-

hagen. No police were wounded in that shooting.

The first shooting happened before 4 p.m. Saturday when police said a gunman used an automatic weapon to shoot through the windows of the Krudttoenden cultural center during a panel discussion on freedom of expression featuring a Swedish artist who had caricatured the Prophet Muhammad. The artist, Lars Vilks, was whisked away unharmed by his bodyguards but a 55-year-old man attending the event was killed, while three police officers were wounded, authorities said.

Two belonged to the Danish security service PET, which said the circumstances surrounding the shooting “indicate that we are talking about a terror attack.”

After midnight Sunday, a Jewish man was killed and two police officers were wounded in the second shooting outside the synagogue.

Dan Rosenberg Asmussen, the head of Denmark’s Jewish community, told Danish public broadcaster DR that the victim was guarding the entrance of a building adjacent to the synagogue.

Skov said the shooter was confronted by police as he returned to an address that they were keeping under surveillance.

Investigators described him as 25 to 30 years old with an athletic build and carrying a black automatic weapon. They released a blurred photograph of the suspect wearing dark clothes and a scarf covering part of his face.

Vilks, a 68-year-old artist who has faced numerous death threats for depicting Muhammad as a dog in 2007, told The Associated Press he believed he was the intended target of the first shooting, which happened at a panel discussion titled “Art, blasphemy and freedom of expression.”

“What other motive could there be? It’s possible it was inspired by Charlie Hebdo,” he said, referring to the Jan. 7 attack by Islamic extremists on the French newspaper that had angered Muslims by lampooning Muhammad.

Police said it was possible the gunman had planned the “same scenario” as in the Charlie Hebdo massacre.

Leaders across Europe condemned the violence and ex-

pressed support for Denmark.

Sweden’s security service said it was sharing information with its Danish counterpart, while U.S. National Security Council spokeswoman Bernadette Meehan said U.S. officials were ready to help with the investigation and have been in touch with their Danish counterparts.

Vilks has faced several attempted attacks and death threats after he depicted the Prophet Muhammad as a dog in 2007. A Pennsylvania woman last year got a 10year prison term for a plot to kill Vilks. In 2010, two brothers tried to burn down his house in southern Sweden and were imprisoned for attempted arson.

The depiction of the prophet is deemed insulting to many followers of Islam. According to mainstream Islamic tradition, any physical depiction of the Prophet Muhammad — even a respectful one — is considered blasphemous.

While many Muslims have expressed disgust at the deadly assault on the Charlie Hebdo employees, many were also deeply offended by its cartoons lampooning Muhammad.

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Dimapur

SPORTS

Monday 16 February 2015

The Morung Express

bayern Munich routs Hamburg 8-0

BERLIN, FEBRUARY 15 (AP): Bayern Munich routed Hamburger SV 8-0 for its biggest Bundesliga win in more than 30 years, and Bas Dost's injurytime winner gave Wolfsburg a 5-4 victory at Bayer Leverkusen in a deluge of goals Saturday.

Thomas Mueller, Arjen Robben and Mario Goetze all scored two each for Bayern, with Robert Lewandowski claiming another and substitute Franck Ribery scoring on his return from a right thigh injury.

"A day I won't forget for my whole life," Hamburg coach Josef Zinnbauer said. It was Bayern's most crushing Bundesliga victory since a 9-0 win against Kickers Offenbach in March 1984.

"We played well. Our build-up was quicker than in the last couple of games.

I'm happy that we're back to our way of playing. Now we're focusing on the Champions League," said Bayern coach Pep Guardiola, referring to Tuesday's away game against Shakhtar Donetsk.

Second-placed Wolfsburg kept pace, eight points behind Bayern, with Dost's winning fourth goal.

Leverkusen had rallied from a three-goal deficit at halftime to tie the game at 4-4 thanks to Son Heungmin's hat trick and 72ndminute equalizer from Karim Bellarabi. Leverkusen finished with 10 men after Emir Spahic earned a second yellow card in the 82nd. "Unfortunately we weren't able to claim the point, not for the point's sake but for the morale it would have given us," Leverkusen coach Roger Schmidt said.

Schalke, which hosts Real Madrid in the Champions League on Wednesday, lost 1-0 at Eintracht Frankfurt in the late game.

American defender Timmy Chandler crossed for halftime substitute Lucas Piazon to head in the winner in the 65th. "We created a lot of good opportunities. The only thing missing was the goal. We just lacked that bit of luck," Schalke captain Benedikt Hoewedes said.

Also, Granit Xhaka scored an injury-time winner for Borussia Moenchengladbach to beat Cologne 1-0 in the Rhine derby, bottom side Stuttgart lost 2-1 to a late goal at Hoffenheim, and Werder

Bayern's Arjen Robben from the Netherlands, center, celebrates with team mates after Franck Ribery from France scored his side's 7th goal during the German first division Bundesliga soccer match between FC Bayern Munich and Hamburger SV in the Allianz Arena in Munich, Germany, Saturday, February 14. (AP Photo)

Bremen defeated Augs- was bottom when the run burg 3-2 to consolidate started in December. eighth place with its fifth Mueller got Bayern consecutive win. Bremen off the mark with a pen-

alty in the 21st and Goetze Mueller's initial shot.

Robben maintained pounced to make it 2-0 off a rebound two minutes later his rich vein of form with a after Jaroslav Drobny saved wonderful curled strike in

off the left post after eluding three Hamburg defenders in the 36th. It was his 13th league goal of the season.

The Dutch winger claimed his next two minutes into the second half, shooting a rare goal with his right foot when he beat Drobny at his near post.

"It was a great surprise for all of us," Bastian Schweinsteiger joked.

Schweinsteiger set up Mueller to make it 5-0 with a curler inside the right post in the 55th, one minute before Mueller set up Robert Lewandowski's first goal of 2015. Ribery scored on a rebound in the 69th and Goetze completed Hamburg's humiliation in the 88th.

Schweinsteiger was back in his favored role in defensive midfield after Xabi Alonso pulled out with a thigh injury.

"I play that position with the national team. I like playing there. It was wonderful," Schweinsteiger said.

Bayern's Holger Badstuber started the game to make his comeback from a thigh injury sustained on Sept. 13. The Germany defender had been out for 20 months before that with a knee injury.

In Leverkusen, Dost opened the scoring with a diving header in the sixth minute and Naldo made it 2-0 with a free kick in the 17th. Dost claimed his second by getting the outside of his boot to Kevin de Bruyne's cross in the 29th.

Schmidt responded by making all three substitutions at the break. Son pulled one back in the 57th, despite Wolfsburg protests that he kicked the ball out of Diego Benaglio's hands, and then scored again five minutes later.

One minute later, Dost completed his hat trick by connecting with the end of Ricardo Rodriguez's cross, only for Son to answer by completing his own hat trick four minutes after that. Bellarabi leveled the score in the 72nd, but Leverkusen was holding on after Spahic's sending off and Dost sealed the win in the 93rd.

"It was a crazy game," Dost said. "The first half was brilliant but we need to forget the second. We didn't play football anymore. But still we scored five goals in an away game.

I'm happy about that.

We're going for the Champions League."

public discourse

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e self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8).

What are the things we see on the advertising boards? Does what we see pleases our eyes? Or do we look at it as we would our enemy? Yes, the last question is what we will be dealing with in this sermon. Everything which our eyes sees are not of God and every sin which the world offers are detestable in God's eyes .The Word defines the world as God's enemies and the sinners will be too if they are to embrace every doctrine of the world. To this regard, the Scripture states " You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred towards God? Anyone who choose to be a friend of the world becomes enemy of God' (John 4:4).

The term enemy does not sound very inviting when God's word defines God as a consuming fire (Hebrews 12:29).

The temptations we speak of here are two sourced: It either comes from within or through others. The word self-control is repeated so many times in the Scripture and it will be wiser still to search more deeply to know the answers within. Since the world and its order are destined for destruction, God's people must not stain themselves by its filth. Notice this: When-

Temptations are snares too

ever the word temptation is mentioned, smiles are evidenced in so many faces and it paints a clear picture of what they are by how they smile. Catergorily, there are five types of smiles, the first is an idiot smile, the second a matured smile, the third, a smile of innocence, the fourth an evil smile and the fifth a holy smile. I trust, this is somehow getting into your mind and it will be in the way it is destined to be. No where in the scripture you will find humour endorsed and it will be wiser still to be serious faced than to smile for lustful reasons. If you are getting this, you will be feeling it.

Remember how temptation first came to Eve, it came slithering and looking at Eve in the eyes enticed her to eat the forbidden fruit.

Though I mentioned not how Adam shared in his wife's sins, it will be good for us to see the Scripture . We find that the consequences of their sins led to the consciousness of their guilt, their nakedness and to their sudden fear of God. It was lust which enticed the woman to eat what was forbidden and her husband was neither spared from what they were both destined for. From what we see, we find that it was attraction which caused the feeling in that

woman. The acts that led to their death was gradual and so it is with every temptation. The Holy Scripture also says each one is tempted when, by his own evil desires, he is dragged away and enticed. Then, after desire has conceived, it gives birth to sin, and sin, when it is fully grown, gives birth to death (John 1:14-15).

Every sin which leads to death begins in the heart but ends not in pleasure but in misery. For instance it may come through a thought but if you embrace it not, the folly will not be yours. Adding to all of these, God destined marriage to be marriage and it will be heretical to ever forbid people to marry.

Regarding the sacredness of marriage, the Holy Scripture also states - 'At the beginning of creation God made them male and female.' For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh. So, they are no longer two, but one. Therefore what God has joined together, let man not separate ( Mark 10:6-9). This is loved truth, embraced by many but it is never to be joked or played with. The scripture firmly states " What God has joined together let man not separate"

and it is so pathetic to see sinners walking together as husbands and wives even when they are not. Do not misunderstand me, as long as the acts are holy and scriptural it is as it is. But the point I want to stress here is that the fear of God should always be evidenced in our eyes, mind and mouth. God forbids sexual intimacy to the unmarried and it will be wiser still to avoid it before marriage. Call it an intrusion or a visitation, I once entered a certain house, little sensing what might go on between the two persons there. Since the hook was locked from inside, I knocked from the outside. As it was opened I was greeted by two astonished male and female. And on introducing myself I went in, shared about God and we said a prayer together. The moment I entered there sensing lust, I rebuked it and as I told them about God, they were grief stricken. As I rose to leave, they stood up, reaching out their hands to me we shook hands assuring them of my prayers before I left.

Trust this, a sin is not committed till it is committed and by the prayers prayed, the powers of it will keep us from being defiled by the sins of the world. Stating this on a clear-

er tone, we have to know when temptation comes, when it comes and where it comes.

To discern all of it, it is pertinent to live in the wisdom and knowledge of God. Some where in the scripture it is in scripted ' to fear God is wisdom and shunning evil is understanding' (Job 28:28). The desire to be pure comes to us only when it is in us. Thus the Psalmist writes " How can a young man keep his ways pure? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart so I might not sin against you" (Psalms 119: 9-11). The last verse is a clear indication of a saint's determination to be holy. We trust you to be in a relationship with this and we expect the best to happen as we come closer to each other and God in truth and in the Holy Spirit. God is not the tempter, the devil is.

NB: The teaching is aimed at equipping the church to further strengthen their stance in Christ. With the second coming of Christ at hand, the believers are warned to be better equipped to confront the forces of the dark world which hovers above. The temptation to sin is a snare too and we pray for your eyes not to sin.

Ambrose.J.Chakre, Founder President Ambrose Foundation in Christ Ministries Kohima Nagaland

cHangki Village council: self-confrontation and respecting our customary laws as protected by article 371(a) of the indian constitution 1. Customary Adjudication with Customary Evidences: Certain customary laws and practices on which Naga villages stand and thrive as traditional communities, - issues like founding of a village, the village system of governance or inter-clan nomenclature, - are undocumented, especially in the case of ancestral villages, going back to the hoary past, since the Nagas had no script of our own to record events and customary practices of great importance.

We do not know about other villages, but at Changki, in case of a village founder’s claim made by a clan, as in the case of the renegade Emremchangki clan members, a few simple but straightforward parameters are applied to decide the case by the Village authority.

These are taken as customary evidences: (i) Does the Emremchangki clan have ancestral village establishment cultivation lands, passed down through the generations as ancestral inheritance at Jangpetkong, the first village establishment location? – No, not one square inch. (ii) Does the clan have ancestral, village establishment house sites at Ongdien, the village re-location area which is situated at today’s Upper Khel? – No, not at all. (iii) The first village cemetery, during Changki’s re-location at Ongdien is still in existence and in use, which was situated just outside the northern security gate. If their claim is true about having even today 24 village founder’s house sites, - then has there been any instance of burial of any Emremchangki deceased member at the village founder’s cemetery? – None. All their burials have been at the Cemetery at the Lower Khel, established after Changki’s subsequent extension outside “Ongdien”. (iv) Of the three groups which eventually constituted Emremchangki clan, two were picked up within Changki territory, known to six clans which were already living at Changki at that time (5 of these clans are still extant, one became extinct), and the third group came to Changki from Longsemdang. Are there any evidences about this third group’s migration? – Yes, solid evi-

dences exist even today. (v) Though Changki is a village in which all the 13 clans, including Emremchangki enjoy complete equality, we believe very strongly that our history, our customary laws, practices, and their usages, which, woven together, make the living organism that is Changki village Community life, need to be protected, preserved and kept sacrosanct, recounted by the village elders during traditional occasions. Then, what do the 13 clans say about the founding of Changki? All, including Emremchangki are unanimous in coming out categorically in pronouncing that Emremchangki never was, and can never be made today, through some declaratory order by any Court or organisation, a founding clan.

What they are not, how can they be made so, through a declaratory order? How can a firmly established historical fact or event be changed through a declaratory pronouncement that it was not so? (vi) As far as Changki is concerned, when we came to know that Emremchangki clan had tried surreptitiously and mischievously to give their citizenship subscription in the name of ‘Changkiri’ clan in 2000 A.D. this internal issue, which is exclusively our own, was settled on 25/01/2001 within our own village, in accordance to our own customary laws, and the position re-affirmed more firmly again on 03/11/2014. (vii) Not created by the British or by the present day State of Nagaland as government servants from different backgrounds in whom some limited magisterial or judicial powers are vested from time to time, Naga village system of governance is rooted in our age-old customary laws and practices, passed down through the generations by our forefathers.

Exclusive and internal civil matters, such as in the present Changki case, in our humble but very firm view, should not only be disallowed to be taken outside the village, but no nonstatutory outside organisations should ever try to interfere in such village internal matters. If at all approached, the utmost and best service such outside organisations can offer is to advise the delinquent rebels to go back

and live peacefully under their village author- clan still stands tall and distinct is an impos(iii) They then made their fictitious ity. This, in our view, would be one of the ef- sible proposition; forefathers to sing songs stolen from a (iii) And a totally new unheard of clan Changki Ancestral Songs book published on fective ways of preserving the provisions of name called ‘Changkiri Enrem’ to be given to 01/02/1991.

Article 371(A) of the Indian Constitution. a splinter group of the blood brothers of Em(iv) Then, a book called ‘Changki 1995’ 2. Emremchangki Renegade’s Philanderings remchangki while the original Emremchang- with numerous errors in clan names banned ki and Changkiri clans remain intact and by the Village Council on 13/10/1996, inoutside Changki’s Customary Authority: Trying to supplant a firmly established distinctively different, would be like trying cluding Imtajenba G.B. and Council Memancient truth, rooted inside your own house- to bury not one, but three live elephants, in bers from Emremchangki clan in sitting, was hold which is well known to the whole vil- the same tiny kitchen, to try to bury the great produced as evidence in the Declaratory Suit lage, with self-concocted lies through various truths with a few shovel-fulls of declaratory to try to prove that they were the real Changdeclarations and pronouncements caused to soil! kiri clan, knowing fully well that they were in(b) The Lies that expose the Truth: be made by different outside organisations dulging in mischief and deception.

The heaps of deceptions, manipulations sounds rather like poaching a full-grown el(v) Of the seven clans named by Imephant, and trying to bury it alive inside your and lies with which the Emremchangki ren- tajenba, Lanotemsu and 3 others of Emlittle kitchen. You not only cannot hide the egades have been trying to bury the elephan- remchangki clan in their Declaratory Suit elephant, but it will tear your kitchen into tine truths of Changki are almost mind-bog- of 2005, who according to them established splinters, and the ancient truth becomes gling. In 1964, Emremchangki clan disputed Changki village, Changki people are in deep with Amri clan, the forefather’s name ‘Keling’ wonderment about 4 clans named by them, even more clearly visible. (a) Declarations that cannot change the which required witnesses from other villag- - Kizaketi, Kotolosang, Chao and Chingmi. es outside of Changki’s jurisdiction, and so Where, how, when did they vanish in thin air, Truth: Claiming themselves to be the leading some Dobashis went to Changki to settle the because they were never a part of Changki vilfounding clan of Changki, the Emremchang- matter. Without our delving into the merits or lage life at any time? ki renegades changed their clan name three demerits of the case, while adjucating the distimes in the Court of ADC (J) Mokokchung, pute, the Dobashis went into the unsolicited People say that liars usually tell more lies obviously not being very definite about what territority of naming four wrong clan names to try to cover their lies until they become too their new-found clan identity should be. as the founders of Changki, - Amur, Chang- many and too obvious. People also say that Some people are trying to give the new clan kija, Enremchangki and Pongen. old habits die hard. Angels are created beings. (i) The Emremchangki renegades Founding of ancestral villages, in the timeless title ‘Changkiri Enrem’, thereby directly interfering in Changki’s internal polity and its quoted and used the Dobashi ruling as the past? Unless God chooses to reveal to them founding history, including, by an enthusi- basis of their declaratory suit in 2005, and the facts, the angels would fear to tread into astic lawyer, who, playing the role of Almighty while doing so, completely nullified the 1964 these ancient realms of bygone ages, - but God, declared arrogantly that they shall be Dobashi judgement order by naming the our renegade Emremchangki brothers have called ‘Changkiri Enrem’ till the end of the Changki founding clans as Longchari, Amri, rushed into this realm with an armoury of world. Of course, the end of the world, or Changkiri, Kizaketi, Kotolosang, Chao and lies and fiction. Fallen creatures that we all what may happen the next moment, as every Chingmi, - totally different from what the are, it would be tough to extricate the seeds of sane person made of dust knows, is not held Dobashis had named (para 5-7 of their De- pride, deception and lies planted in the Garin one mortal lawyer’s enthusiastic outburst claratory suit) den of Eden by the Deceiver of mankind. But or pronouncement. Others are declaring that (ii) Also in 1964, as Emremchangki clan, the door to forgiveness and reconciliation is they should be called ‘Changkiri’. The only in- they disputed over an ancestor’s name with still open through the route of humility and surmountable difficulties are that, Amri clan, but in 2005, after changing their repentance before God, and His appointed (i) Their own blood brothers of the name several times, they finally tried to be- rightful Changki Village authority and within same clan Emremchangki would never come ‘Changkiri’, by, among others, giving Changki’s own customary laws and practices. change their clan name by which they have in their Court Affidavit, the real Changkiri’s lived at Changki through the centuries; founding forefather Changkiba to a ficti(ii) The thought of a renegade group tious clan called Kotolosang, and then made ( LENDIMENBA AMRI )( LENDIMENBA AMRI ) ( IMODANGBA PONGEN ) ( IMODANGBA PON from Emremchangki merging with the one Changkiba to offer a mithun sacrifice, - never and only distinctively different clan called known or practised by Changki people any‘Changkiri’ while the original Emremchangki time, - enroute to Jangpetkong.

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.

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single to release Feb 23

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inger Selena Gomez and Russian-German music producer and DJ Zedd took to social media platforms to announce release date of their single "I want you to know". The track will go live Feb 23.

The producer posted cover art for their single on his Facebook page, and Gomez shared the artwork and release date on Twitter, reports eonline.com. "My new single 'I Want You to Know' ft.

Selena Gomez is coming out on FEB 23," Zedd wrote.

The image is very artsy as it features half of Zedd's portrait and half of Gomez's portrait on opposite sides.

With vibrant hues, the cover image shows the two artists completely separated, but they still have a slight connection stemming from each of their eyes.

S

hraddha Kapoor, who had a wonderful 2014, continues to be on a run in 2015 too. After the superhit Ek Villain and the much-acclaimed Haider, the gorgeous actress has made it to the 'Forbes India list of 30 under 30', further consolidating her position in the industry with her talent and desire to succeed.

Runway Nagaland organised an event called ‘A Coffee Chat with Alobo Naga’ at Hiyo Café in Dimapur on February 13, where Alobo Naga interacted with fans about his music career and his experiences as an artist. The organisers also felicitated Alobo Naga for taking Nagaland forward into the Global music industry. The event was sponsored

by Manav Ranchna International University.

Already known for her acting chops and melodious voice, that was evident in the song Galliyan in Ek Villian, Shraddha will soon be seen as the led performer of a dance troupe in her next release, director Remo D'Souza's ABCD 2 with Varun Dhawan and Prabhudheva.

The actress, who also

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manages to wow the audience with her stylish appearances, is amongst the few who achieve such success so early on in their career. Shraddha has cemented her position in the industry with her unique choice of films and continues to surprise her audience with her unconventional roles.

WIll SmIth:

My son owns just one pair of shoes five shirts. Smith said he respects his 16-year-old son for he is not keen on splashing money, reported People magazine.

"He has refused to be a slave to money. I so respect that. The younger generation is less of an ownership generation, anyway. It's such an interesting thing to watch, because I came from a middle-class background, but, you know, our lights and gas would be cut off from not paying the bill.

"I grew up in a house where you would need the kerosene heaters in the winter in case the bills didn't get paid. He's from the complete other end of the spectrum. And it's so interesting to me that from growing up in that space, he could see the need for things in a way that he's rejecting. He's like, 'I'm not gonna let myself need things in that way'," he said.

Shane Warne to appear in Bollywood film

A

fter a successful cricket career, the Spin King Shane Warne will be seen trying his luck in Bollywood later this year. "There is an offer. There is someone who has something for me," Warne told PTI while attending a Tourism Victoria event here. Warne said he may look into the Bollywood project later this year after the cricket season gets over.

The former cricketer was recently announced as the monarch of famous Moomba festival, an annual event of Melbourne, along with the Melbourne-raised Bollywood star Pallavi Sharda. Warne, 45, said he had been asked about his Bollywood plans many a times but he has not finalised anything yet.

Another Australian cricketer Brett Lee has already made headlines into Bollywood. He recently finished the lead role in a USD 4.5 million Indian film called 'Unindian' shot in Sydney and directed by Indian director Anupam Sharma. He is starring opposite Indian actress Tannishtha Chatterjee.

Benedict Cumberbatch Weds On Valentine's Day

Nicole Kidman receives 'Worst Actress' award C M Y K

Dimapur

in Forbes India's 30 most successful young achievers

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dent reported. 'Pudsey the Dog: the Movie' received the 'Worst British Film' and was described as a 'train wreck', whereas Simon Pegg grabbed the award for 'Worst Actor' for 'Hector and the Search for Happiness'.

In addition to the awardees, there were some actors who made their place in the nomination for their worst perfor-

16 February 2015

Shraddha Kapoor

ollywood star Will Smith says his son Jaden's wardrobe comprises only a pair of shoes, three pairs of pants and

icole Kidman has won the award for 'Worst Actress' 2015 for 'Grace Of Monaco' at British Academy for Rubbish Films and Terrible Acting (Barfta). 'Grace of Monaco' was about the American actress Grace Kelly's marriage to Prince Rainier III, and it was neither liked by audience nor by the critics last year after its release, the Indepen-

Monday

Entertainment

The Morung Express

mances in films, like Cameron Diaz was nominated for 'Worst Actress' in 'Sex Tape', and David Walliams was shortlisted for 'Worst Actor' for voicing the dog in 'Pudsey the Dog: the Movie' Special prizes included the 'Dick van Dyke Award' for disastrous accent awarded that was honoured to Russell Crowe for his baffling ac-

cent in 'A New York Winter's Tale'. Popbitch has fronted the awards since its set up, and Barfta voting academy is made up of notable British film critics and industry professionals who vote anonymously. British Academy for Rubbish Films and Terrible Acting honors the worst films and performances of the year, unlike Academy.

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Christina Aguilera to Guest Star on Nashville N

ew mom Christina Aguilera is certainly looking to have a very busy 2015. The singer, who will be returning to her duties on ‘The Voice’ for the show’s eighth season, will also be taking a trip to ‘Nashville’ soon, to play a pop diva with country aspirations.

People magazine announced the singer had signed on for a guest stint on the ABC drama and revealed she will play a character named Jade St. John. The magazine described St John as “a pop superstar who’s been going pretty much nonstop since she broke out a decade ago.”

“She arrives to Nashville for a twonight stand at the Bridgestone, but her real dream is to record a country album – if only her label, who wants her to stay on brand as a pop star, would let her break out of her golden cage.”

The role comes four years after Aguilera hit the big screen in

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musical Burlesque, alongside Cher and Kristen Bell. The 34 year old is also said to be producing a new series for ABC’s Family channel, as well as getting to work on her next album.

On top of work, Aguilera also has six month old daughter Summer Rain to look after, who this week graced the cover of People magazine alongside her mother. Revealing the inspiration behind her daughter’s unusual name, Aguilera told the mag, “Summer is a time of spreading warmth and light, while rain washes away … replenishes and brings new life to allow growth and new beginnings.”

“I wanted her name to be filled with inspiration, love and joy. And that’s exactly what she brings to all who encounter her. Her beauty and sunshine exude from within,” ‘The Voice’ coach added.

The singer also revealed she’s in no rush to marry fiancee Matt Rutler, who she's been engaged to for over a year. "Our love is secure enough that we don't need a wedding to prove our love or commitment," Aguilera said. "We are enjoying our daughter, our family and our work for now."

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ritish actor Benedict Cumberbatch is a married man after exchanging vows on Valentine's Day (14Feb15).

The Imitation Game star, 38, wed his pregnant partner Sophie Hunter, 36, at the medieval St. Peter and St. Paul's Church in Mottistone on the Isle of Wight, off the coast of England, on the most romantic day of the year.

The happy couple celebrated the nuptials with a reception at the nearby Mottistone Manor, where guests included the groom's actor parents Timothy Carlton and Wanda Ventham,

and Cumberbatch's Sherlock co-star Andrew Scott.

Cumberbatch and theatre director Hunter announced their engagement in November (14), five years after they met on the set of thriller Burlesque Fairytales in 2009. In early January (15), they revealed they are expecting their first child.

The newlyweds will have to put plans for a long honeymoon on hold - Cumberbatch is expected to attend the Academy Awards in Hollywood next Sunday (22Feb15), when he will compete for the Best Actor Oscar.

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Tomorrow maTch

Tue, 17 Feb 2015 03:30 am IST

NZ vs SCO

University oval, Dunedin C M Y K

Hit fOr Six

PM Modi congratulates Indian team for victory against Pakistan NeW DelHi, FeBruArY 15 (PTi): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated the Indian cricket team after it kick-started the campaign in the cricket World Cup with a stupendous win over archrivals Pakistan at Adelaide Oval.

“Congrats Team India. Well played.

We are all very proud of you,” Mr. Modi said in his message. The Prime Minister had earlier wished all the Indian cricketers individually just before the start of the quadrennial extravaganza. Defending champions India launched their campaign in grand style as they produced a clinical performance to spank Pakistan by 76 runs, maintaining their unbeaten record against the archrivals in the mega event. In the highvoltage match between the bitter rivals, India again emerged victorious in a rather one-sided affair, thus maintaining their magnificent record against Pakistan by winning the sixth consecutive World Cup game since the rivalry started way back in 1992.

Kohli ton helps India extend streak to 6 wins vs Pakistan in World Cups India defeat Pakistan by 76 runs in their first World Cup 2015 match at Adelaide Oval. Virat Kohli scored a brilliant 107

AdelAide, FebruAry 15 (AP): Virat Kohli returned to his sparkling best to help India continue its World Cup domination of archrival Pakistan, extending its winning streak to six with a lopsided 76-run victory Sunday in front of a crowd at the Adelaide Oval that quite easily could have been transplanted from the subcontinent.

India hadn’t won a competitive match in two months in Australia leading up to the World Cup, but returned to form suddenly for the grudge match on the bat of Kohli, who ended a run of single-digit innings to score 107 off 126 balls and guide his team to 300-7.

In the process, he became the first Indian batsman to score a century against Pakistan in the World Cup, surpassing the 98 that Sachin Tendulkar scored at Centurion in 2003.

“It’s probably one of the biggest I’ve had in my career so far,” Kohli said of his innings.

“Amazing way for us to kick off the World Cup. It’s a high-pressure game. Good to get that win under the belt.”

He went to the crease with the total at 34-1 and shared partnerships of 129 with Shikhar Dhawan (73) and 110 with Suresh Raina (74) before he was caught behind off Sohail Khan (5-55) in the 46th over, triggering a flurry of late wickets.

Raina, who clobbered three sixes and five boundaries in his 56-ball innings, was next out as India lost its last four wickets for 16 runs as Pakistan clawed back into the game.

india’s Virat Kohli, celebrates his hundred runs during the World Cup Pool B match against Pakistan in Adelaide, Australia, Sunday, February 15. (AP Photo)

After dismissing Kohli and Raina, and after Wahab Riaz bowled Ravi Jedaja (3) in the 49th, Sohail Khan started the last over by having M.S. Dhoni (18) caught off a top edge and bowling Ajinkya Rahane (0).

Pakistan’s chase started badly when veteran Younis Khan (6) was out with the total at 11 and it fizzled out entirely after losing three wickets for one run in nine deliveries — including opener Ahmed Shezhad (47) — to slump to 103-5.

When Shahid Afridi (22) sliced a high catch to Kohli off Mohammad Shami (4-35) to make the total 149-6, groups of Pakistanis in the 41,587 crowd started filing out of the stadium. Skipper Misbah-ul-Haq posted the only half-century of the innings and was the ninth wicket to fall, caught off Shami for 76 from 84 balls. It was all over by the 47th over, with Pakistan all out for 224.

“We lost momentum with those three quick wickets — that really hurt us,” said Misbah, who was unable to explain India’s streak against Pakistan. “It’s important for us just to concentrate on the games which are coming. If you keep on thinking about the game that is gone now, it’s difficult to perform well.”

The first World Cup meeting between the fierce rivals was in 1992 — the last time the tournament was co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand — and India started its winning sequence from there.

“Yes, we’re proud of what we’ve done,” skipper Dhoni

said. “The record is good, but it’s something I don’t want to get into — there’ll come a time when we lose, irrespective of it’s this World Cup, next. It’s not something that will stay (forever).”

Tendulkar, who played in the previous five wins but retired in 2013, compared the intensity of the two countries’ World Cup clashes with the level of a final. But this game was rarely in Pakistan’s grasp after Dhoni won the toss and batted in ideal conditions.

It followed a trend — India had won the toss in four of the previous five World Cup meetings, and Pakistan struggled in pursuit of a target.

The match was advertised as a sellout and organizers were expecting a record TV audience, but apart from some of the Indian batting it didn’t fulfil its billing.

Kolhi reached triple figures with a single off Afridi to start the 43rd over for his 22nd ODI hundred, and his second in World Cups.

His innings was not without incident — a mix-up led to Dhawan’s run out at the nonstriker’s end in the 30th over and he had a reprieve on 76 when part-time wicketkeeper Umar Akmal put down a regulation chance. India will be relying on another big innings from Kohli when it takes on leading contender South Africa in Melbourne next Sunday.

Pakistan, the 1992 champion, will play two-time champion West Indies in Christchurch on Saturday.

Miller, Duminy star as jittery Proteas beat Zimbabwe

South Africa's David Miller raises his bat and helmet after making 100 runs against Zimbabwe during their Cricket World Cup pool B match at Hamilton, New Zealand, Sunday, February 15. (AP Photo)

HAmilton, FebruAry 15 (AFP): David Miller and JP Duminy both scored hundreds as South Africa overcame a nervy start to beat Zimbabwe by 62 runs in their World Cup Pool B opener in Hamilton on Sunday.

Wobbling at 83 for four, South Africa were lifted by brilliant hundreds by Miller (138 not out) and Duminy (115 not out), with the pair sharing an unbroken stand of 256 -- a new fifthwicket record for all one-day internationals -- as they piled up 339 for four at Seddon Park.

Zimbabwe, as they had with the ball, started well with the bat and were 191 for two in the 33rd over as Hamilton Masakadza (80) and Chamu Chibhabha

(64) threatened before they lost eight wickets for 86 runs.

Masakadza hit eight fours and two sixes in his 74ball knock while Chibhabha knocked 10 boundaries off 82 balls but Zimbabwe's batting wilted after their departure.

Brendon Taylor chipped in with 40 and Solomon Mire scored 27.

South Africa's spearhead Dale Steyn struggled with his line as he conceded 38 runs in his first five overs before finishing with one for 64 in nine.

It was leg-spinner Imran Tahir (three for 36) who dismissed both Chibhabha and Masakadza in his first spell while Vernon Philander (two for 30)

and Morne Morkel (two for 49) shared the spoils later on.

South Africa, after losing the toss, slumped to 83 for four against Zimbabwe's unheralded attack with key batsmen Hashim Amla (11) and skipper AB de Villiers (25) both falling cheaply.

Miller smashed nine sixes and seven fours off 92 balls to better his previous highest score of 130 not out against the West Indies at Port Elizabeth last month. Duminy almost matched his fellow left-hander stroke for stroke, smashing three sixes and nine boundaries in his 100-ball knock.

Their partnership beat the previous fifth-wicket best of 226 which England's Eoin Morgan

and Ravi Bopara shared against Ireland in Dublin two years ago.

"I really enjoyed that, it's been a long time since I last got three figures," said Duminy whose side had been put into bat. "The pitch was definitely slower than we all predicted initially, but with wickets in hand, we could go after them."

Duminy praised Miller's innings by saying: "David was exceptional -- he just muscled it about all over the park."

Miller became the 15th batsmen overall and second South African behind Gary Kirsten (against the United Areab Emirates at Rawalpindi in 1996) to score a hundred on his World Cup debut. South Africa had also lost Quniton de Kock (seven) and Faf du Plessis (24) by the 17th over and de Villiers (25) also didn't linger long.

De Villiers hit the first six of the innings, off Tendai Chatara but, trying to play a similar shot off leg-spinner Tafadzwa Kamungozi, he was brilliantly caught on the boundary by Craig Ervine.

Realising he was going over the rope in his attempt to hold onto the catch, Ervine threw the ball back before leaping across the boundary to complete the dismissal on the field.

But Zimbabwe failed to take any more wickets as Miller and Duminy smashed 146 runs in the last 10 overs, taking 30 alone in the 48th over bowled by Mire with three sixes and as many boundaries.

Henderson submits Thatch in Welterweight debut C M Y K

ColorAdo, FebruAry 15 (AGenCieS): Benson Henderson pulled off the improbable Saturday night, taking out Brandon Thatch with a fourthround rear naked choke to win his UFC welterweight debut after taking the fight on just two weeks' notice.

The former lightweight champion showed tremen-

dous heart standing up to Thatch in the main event of the UFC Fight Night card at Broomfield, Colo., finding a way to win with an inspirational performance in enemy territory.

Henderson took the fight as a replacement for the injured Stephen "Wonderboy" Thompson, even though he'd never fought

at 170 pounds in the UFC. But he jumped at the opportunity to fight Thatch, a former top prospect who hadn't fought since 2013 due to injuries, and came out of the gate showing no fear of his much bigger opponent, who had an advantage of several inches in both height and reach.

Thatch found his range

and started to tag Henderson with big shots as his confidence grew. Henderson remained the faster fighter, but Thatch was clearly more powerful. Thatch was able to bully Henderson around the Octagon and dictate the pace of the fight as the seconds ticked away until the third round began.

Henderson refused to back down in the third after nailing Thatch with a heavy body shot and it eventually led to his first takedown before quickly transitioning to back control. Henderson ended up bruising Thatch and putting a big mouse under his right eye before trying for an armbar just as the round came to an end.

Thatch seemed to regain his composure in the fourth, but Henderson again found a way to slip under and put him on the mat before quickly transitioning to take his back.

C M Y K

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