February 23rd, 2015

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www.morungexpress.com

The Morung Express

Dimapur Vol. X issuE 51

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www.morungexpress.com

Monday, February 23, 2015 12 pages Rs. 4

Laughter at oneself is always proof that God has healed us in the touchy places Nitish returns as Bihar CM, to meet Modi over development

Reese Witherspoon used hypnosis to battle insecurities

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Foothill Highway, a reality?

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– Eugenia Price

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Jinx broken, Men in Blue thump Proteas at MCG

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Saudi effort to promote open society abroad in tatters

the long winding road to the tuli Paper Mill—i Morung Express news Dimapur| February 22

Palestinians cross a muddy, rain flooded street in the Bedouin village of al-Moghraka, central Gaza Strip on February 22. (AP Photo)

reflections

By Sandemo Ngullie

Black money: Tax department to file 100 more complaints in court

NEW DELHI, FEBRUARY 22 (PTI): The Income Tax department is set to launch over 100 fresh prosecution complaints for “wilful” evasion of taxes against those entities and individuals whose names have figured in the HSBC, Geneva black money bank accounts list.

The department, according to sources, is also expected to collect an additional revenue to the Modernization has reversed tune of Rs 3,200 crore after everything. now our cattle eats only vegetables, fruits completing final assessments and prosecutions and rice. of these cases, as taxes and The Morung Express penalties.

Officials said the taxPoll QuEsTion man will file prosecution Vote on www.morungexpress.com complaints, which means sMs your answer to 9862574165 pressing of tax evasion charges against the guilty Are Nagas really ready in a court at the end of into handle oil business? vestigations, under Section 276C(1) of IT Act (wilful Yes no others attempt to evade tax, penAre Naga people’s alty or interest chargeable) possessiveness over their history, selective memory of past glories and past traumas hampering peaceful co-existence?

Yes no

61% 11%

others

28%

Details on page 7

Naga society facing huge social unrest: Naga Hoho

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DIMAPUR, FEBRUARY 22 (MExN): The Naga Hoho today condemned the “ugly and cowardice acts of those criminals who have been trying to unleash a reign of terror in our society.” A press note from the Naga Hoho stated that Naga society is “facing huge social unrest,” and expressed concern at the “acts of unknown criminals” engaging in firing and lobbing a hand grenade at the residence of Dr. Benjongliba Aier, MLA on February 17 at Dimapur and the explosion that took place at Kohima on February 21 near the residences of two elected members.

It urged the law enforcing agencies to “try and solve this matter at the earliest so as to prevent any such unwanted incidents occurring in civilian inhabited areas.” It further appealed to all “responsible Naga citizens” to come forward and condemn such incidents and also help prevent such acts “targeted at our Naga people when peace is most needed in our land.”

and Section 276D (failure to produce accounts and documents).

“Some 100 or more prosecution cases would be filed by the tax department before March 31 in the HSBC bank Geneva branch black money cases. Already, about 60 such complaints have been filed till now,” a source privy to the development said.

An additional revenue of about Rs 3,200 crore would also be collected by the department, taking the total amount of income brought to tax after investigations in these case to about Rs 7,000 crore, the sources said. Taxes or revenue to the tune of Rs 3,150 crore have been collected till now.

The IT department, currently, is working on to probe about 240 HSBC cases where it is suspected that Indians have stashed their

illicit funds abroad.

Till December 31 last year, assessments were completed in 128 of these cases by the IT department out of the total 628 Indian names or entities reported on the stolen HSBC list provided by France to India few years ago after they were reportedly “secreted” out by an employee posted at the Geneva branch of the global bank. Out of the said 628 people, 200 were either non-residents or non-traceable, leaving 428 cases to be actionable for tax sleuths to probe.

For these 428 actionable cases, the government had said, the net amount of peak balance was about Rs 4,500 crore.

The IT is fast tracking these cases, sources said, as the “time barring” limit for them is March 31 as after this deadline no legal action can be taken.

Will the people of Nagaland finally see resumption of the Tuli Paper Mill?

A preliminary look at the history of the Mill suggests that promises were made time and again, repeated over years, to revive the industry without any real ground work till date.

Crores of rupees have already been “regularised” (utilised) for the “revival” of the Mill without any corresponding work to show for it. The Morung Express takes a look.

A joint venture between Hindustan Paper Corporation Ltd (HPC) and Government of Nagaland, the Nagaland Pulp & Paper Company Ltd. (NPPC), or the Tuli Paper Mill, was established in 1971 but suspended its operation in 1992 and has been in limbo ever since.

Adding to a string of unfulfilled promises, the people of Nagaland were yet again assured of a “revival and activation” plan for the Mill when Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Public Enterprise, Anand G. Geete, laid the foundation stone for a power plant inside its complex on February 10, 2015.

Back in 2006-07, former chief minister Neiphiu Rio, who held the finance portfolio, announced in the State assembly that the Mill was in the process of “revival” with the Planning Commission giving “in principle clearance” for its revival with an investment of Rs. 487 Crore.

At the 52nd Meeting of the National Develop-

Part of the Tuli Paper Mill in Mokokchung district, as photographed on February 10, 2015. (Morung Photo)

ment Council (NDC), held in December 2006, he stated that the failure of its revival was among a list of ‘non-fulfilment of commitments’ made by former Prime Minister A B Vajpayee during his visit to Nagaland in October 2003.

He informed that the centre is yet to sanction Rs. 555 Crore committed for the revival of the Mill. The same story was repeated at the 53rd NDC meeting in 2007.

A sick company under the purview of Board of Industrial and Financial Restructuring (BIFR), the Union Cabinet finally approved the revival of the NPPC on 8 November 2006 at an estimated cost of Rs. 552.44 Crore with Rs. 261.26 Crore as Government’s equity, Rs. 252.99 Crore as loan from banks/financial institutions with Government guarantee and Rs. 38.19

Crore as 5% non cumulative preference share. However, actual noticeable groundwork remained absent.

Later, it was found that the cost of the project was escalated to Rs. 1102.85 Crore, thereby making it an unviable proposition. A revised Detail Project Report (DPR) was sought. Subsequently, after prolonged deliberations, investment of an estimated cost of Rs. 679 Crore was considered in two phases and the revised DPR was approved on June 4, 2013 by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA).

The approved revival plan included infusion of funds of Rs. 309.38 Crore and approval to avail term loan of Rs. 156.50 Crore from commercial banks against government guarantee. With a State share of Rs. 23 Crore, the total package came to

Rs. 489 Crore. It also approved regularization of diversion of funds of Rs. 54.60 Crore among themselves, and increasing the authorized capital of NPPC from Rs. 150 Crore to Rs. 250 Crore. The second phase, depending upon the success of the first, will be Rs. 190 Crore taking the final revival package to Rs. 679 Crore.

The revival plan consists of rebuilding/re-furbishment of a paper machine, pulping mill, new power plant etc. The company would produce both pulp and paper in the first phase, the CCEA meeting noted. Meanwhile, in 2013, the incumbent Minister for industry and commerce, Nagaland, S Pangnyu Phom told the media that the Mill would be fully revived within two years. ...to be continued

Third Swine Flu case detected in Nagaland it is a Universe of Books at KOHIMA, FEBRUARY 22 (MExN): A third case of Swine Flu has been confirmed in Nagaland state, informed the state Nodal Officer for the Integrated Disease and Surveillance Programme (IDSP) today. The state health department while confirming this informed that the patient, a Naga man, was in Delhi for the past few days, according to a DIPR report.

On discovery that he was showing flu symptoms, the patient had consulted Doctors and gave his samples in Delhi for verification. After providing the samples, he arrived in Nagaland on February 20 by flight.

Results arrived from Delhi on Saturday that the patient had tested positive for Swine Flu. Thereafter the health department took prompt action and started providing medication to the patient at Kohima. Till sunday evening, the condition of the patient was reported to be stable.

The health department has advised travelers coming back to Nagaland from the metro cities to get timely medication from the nearby hospitals.

flu epidemic spread, people are turning to alternative remedy to ward off the H1N1 virus. For the past four days in Dimapur, people in hundreds have been thronging a homoeopathic clinic located at the Jain Temple Road, near SD Jain Girls College.

The clinic – Sethi Homoeo Chamber is distributing pills, as a preventive to swine flu, free of cost.

Homoeopathic consultant Dr. Rajani Sethi, who runs the clinic, said that the pills were approved by the Central Council for Research in Homoeopathy (CCRH). The medicine, known in homoeopathic circles as ‘arsenic alb’ has to be taken for three consecutive days. To be effective, the person taking the pills must avoid alcoholic beverages, tobacco, nonvegetarian food and pungent spices, said Dr. Rajani.

She added that the clinic has distributed approximately 60-70 thousand doses so far, adding that in some instances, the pills are given out in bulk to representatives from surrounding villages.

Dr. Rajani however stated, “Taking the medicine does not imply that we have to let our guard down… we have to be careful and alert People turn to (nonetheless).” Washing alternative remedy As news of the swine hands frequently (soap,

sanitizers) and keeping the mouth and nose covered either using a mask or a clean cloth are the basic things one can do prevent the flu from spreading. Homoeopathy is known to boost the body’s immune system.

Nationwide death toll crosses 800 mark Meanwhile, a PTI report today informed that Swine flu claimed 38 more lives in the country taking the death toll beyond 800 even as the total number of people affected by the disease today breached the 13,000 mark.

According to Health Ministry figures, the total number of deaths due to the disease has now reached 812 while 13,688 people have been affected with the H1N1 virus across the country.

Health Ministry officials had yesterday said that the number of people affected by swine flu was 12,963 while deaths caused by the infection was 774 as per figures available till February 20.

A senior health official said that in comparison to yesterday, there has been a dip in the number of fresh positive cases.

Seven more persons succumbed to swine flu in Rajasthan. Out of 4318

patients who tested positive for the HINI virus, 212 have died since January 1, an official of Medical and Health Directorate (MHD) said here.

Meanwhile, seven deaths due to the disease were reported inMaharashtra today, taking the number of the diseaserelated deaths in the state to 99. In Jammu and Kashmir, one more patient died of swine flu, taking the toll to five, while 119 have tested positive for the disease so far.

Three persons have died of swine flu in Uttarakhand this year and 14 persons afflicted by it are undergoing treatment at different hospitals in the state. The Union Health Ministry has already asked the state drug controllers to ensure that chemist shops display prominently availability of medicines for its treatment. A communication to this effect has been sent by Drug Controller General of India G N Singh to drug controllers of all states and UTs. In another letter, the DGCI has directed the state drug controllers to set up a “Swine Flu Drugs Availability Monitoring Cell” with a designated officer to ensure close monitoring of availibility of drugs and vaccines.

new Delhi World Book fair Dr. Asangba Tzudir New Delhi | February 22

The New Delhi World Book Fair is a premier event organized by the National Book Trust (NBT). The fair is stretched over nine days from February 14-22, 2015 which has over 25 countries with Singapore and Korea as the Guest Country and Focus Country respectively. With over 1100 exhibitors including publishers and distributors it is indeed a window to the world of books. An interesting feature is that North East India is also provided a platform in the theme pavilion under “SURYODAYA: Emerging voices from North East India.”

A visit to the book fair is much more than eye glancing through the pile of books in search of one’s favorite being thrown open to an intellectual feast of books. Indeed the place to whet your appetite for good reading. At the margins of the fair there are literary activities like cultural events, book launches, meet the authors, followed by discussions and debates making the event more vibrant and lively. The fair is also a good platform for publishers and distributors to promote books, which also serves the objective of sharing cultures

of knowledge and knowledge of cultures besides doing business. Heritage Publishing House Dimapur is also privileged to be part of this year’s World Book fair with the likes of Oxford, Cambridge, Routledge etc.

The fair is considered as the biggest Book fair in Asia and this event is an opportune time to promote Naga literature and take it worldwide.

At theme Pavilion, due emphasis was given on North East India through the theme “SURYODAYA: Emerging voices from North East India.” It served as a good platform to contest with the popular imagination of clubbing Northeast within a single entity.

Beside a separate display for books on North East and cultural presentations, there were curated panels dealing with different issues. One of them was – Crossover Narratives: Women’s Voices from the North East. Moderated by Mamang Dai, the panel brought to fore the rich corpus of writing from the region, land and people, outsider-insider debate and most importantly emerging voices from women which forms integral discourses.

Various new books were released and, among them, one particularly caught most people’s at-

tention. It was the launch of the book by Laxmi (transgender/Hijra) published

by Oxford, Me Hijra, Me Laxmi. At the launch Laxmi said, “I was what I was, I didn’t choose to be this way. I was made this way.”

This somehow made me reflect on our Naga Society which is frozen in different layers of ‘social exclusion.’

A visitor was asked, do you like books? “Honestly I may have nothing to do with books but I have everything to do with reading.” It is a sad reality that the level of reading culture in Nagaland is not encouraging though reading is one of the most pleasurable activities. This can be shared only among book lovers and readers. But whatever it is that makes reading books pleasurable, books are windows that opens up your imagination and let you travel across the unbounded world of knowledge. Abraham Lincoln said, “The things I want to know are in books.”

As the book fair comes towards an end, my only hope is for our people to grow more in love with books in the pursuit of knowledge. Considering the number of halls and book stalls, my only regret is in not being able to visit all the stores even in nine days.

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Dimapur

Monday

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23 February 2015

Pochury hoho urges NPgs to maintain ‘harmonious life’

Meluri, February 22 (MexN): The Pochury Hoho in its general meeting held on February 6 reaffirmed its earlier resolution to appeal to all Naga Political Groups to maintain “very harmonious life” amongst groups and between political groups in order to bring peace and tranquillity in the community, and also, to give respect and honour to the Naga Concordant, in which, the Nagas committed to move forward together and work together in the common interest and purpose in achieving Naga Political talks and aspirations.

A press statement received here further informed that the house also fervently appealed to all the NPGs to maintain “maximum restrain” of killing own brothers, erupting conflicts and misunderstanding, and urged them to honour FNR’s principles

and agreements by staying in their respective designated camps.

Meanwhile, it was stated that the meeting expressed happiness and praised God for his “undying love and guidance” showered upon the people of Pochury and thus bringing the tribe to celebrate 25 years; the tribe was recognised by the Government of Nagaland in 1990. The House resolved to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the tribe recognition on April 21, 2015 “to praise and give thanks to God for His loving-kindness to the people of Pochury,” it added.

The press statement was appended by Penthu Pochury, president, Pochury Hoho; Nyupuli, president, Pochury GB Union; Machü Pojar, president, Pochury Mothers Association; Er. Joyson Pfithu, president, Pochury Student’s Union.

Free textbooks under SDEO office Dimapur DiMapur, February 22 (MexN): Sub-divisional Education Officer (SDEO), Dimapur has informed that free textbooks will be issued EBRC block wise on the following dates: EBRC Dimapur Urban – February 24 and March 2; EBRC Medziphema – February 25 and March 3; EBRC Dhansiripar – February 26 and March 4; EBRC Kushiabill – February 27 and March 7. SDEO Dimapur S Atomi Swu in a release further informed all the heads of Government Primary Schools/ Government Middle Schools/ Government High Schools under his office to bring along their respective school seal and collect the free text books according to the dates mentioned above.

The Morung Express

Foothill highway, a reality?

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“In every walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks” – John Muir Wapangla Imchen Dimapur | February 22

After a gruelling walk on foot from Champang area to Wozhu old village for nearly three hours, the warm sincere greetings from an old couple almost relieved the weary trekkers.

This was the second day of the historic trek undertaken by some few students and faculties of C-Edge College, Dimapur across the projected foothill highway. It was a stirring activity which the trek team were all equally enthusiastic with the curiosity to see how far the infamous foothill highway has developed apart from testing each fitness level. Crossing the old craggy hanging bridge near Governor’s camp was the first hurdle, which was accomplished with many hue and cries. It is the only mode of crossing over the Doyang River otherwise vehicles has to ply on the river to go to the other side of the foothill highway when its current level goes down.

Trekking is an outdoor activity in which people make hiking trips through rural, often rugged territory but gives them an up-close view of the scenery. Thus, with the clear clean river and the sesame field on the left side and the green hilly terrain on the right side, the eight kilometres walk

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(LEFT Freshly carved out road near Old Wozhu village. (RIGHT) The hanging bridge near Governor's camp- the only mode to cross Doyang River and reach the other side of the foothill highway.

before reaching New Korio village was a pleasant one.

But a sad thought lingers whether this picturesque view will remain the same once the highway becomes fully functional. During the entire two days walk on the foothill, we came across many villages and hamlets.

The first village, New Korio (Lotha village) has no electricity. They use battery and petty solar power as their means for electric-

ity to run the household. It was somewhat surprising to learn that at this time, Nagaland still has areas without electricity.

Most of the villages are small. The people in the villages were kind and welcoming. For a change, friendly faces were pretty refreshing. Almost all were willing to offer water, tea, meals and even their house to take refuge for the night.

They marvelled at the fact

that people from Dimapur, which is a not a hilly area and easy to ply has the heart to walk in the rough terrain. It was overwhelming to learn their anticipation, their hope and their faith about the benefits of a foothill highway to be constructed. It is fascinating to know that a small village after Merapani known as ‘Longtsiri’ was founded in 2006 only after the foothill highway project was made

known. The only disheartening reflection is the question of duration it will take for the highway to complete. From the economic and social perspective, let’s face it; highways can be a foundation for sustainable development. It will present unprecedented opportunities for further investment by entrepreneurs and can also encourage stakeholders to seize the opportunities. Therefore, this

can provide a healthy, productive, meaningful life for all community residents, present and future. Most importantly, the people of Nagaland do not have to depend on other state like Assam to travel to other districts. Otherwise, the dilemma faced by the people for years is known to all.

Is the foothill highway going to be feasible only in the paper? Or is it really going to be a reality?

It was such an incongruity situation because looking at the present situation and the slow pace of work at the projected highway, the prospect of it becoming functional looks bleak.

As the senior most trekker in the team says “There is such a sense of achievement that I could traverse the Foothill Highway by foot, as the preferred mode by car could not materialise even after so many years.

Now, along with the feeling of joy and achievement, I feel a deep sense of sadness and helplessness. I fear that travelling that route by car may not be possible in my lifetime. And there is such a feeling of helplessness for those hopeful settlers who have moved along the foothill highway with great expectations of a prosperous future. I only hope and pray that the theme of ‘Waiting for Godot’ will not be replaced here”.

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Pending salary of NE employees in Noida cleared

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New Delhi, February 22 (MexN): The case of non-payment of salary to 21 call center employees - 11 from Nagaland and 10 from Manipur, by NevanInfotech firm in Noida was today settled here at Nagaland House. A press release from Chumbemo M Patton, Nagaland representative to the Delhi Police informed that the firm owners Karan and Dinesh paid all the pending dues

of around 2.5 lakhs in the presence of him and Linda Newmai, a social worker.

According to the release, “many such cases happen time and again with our people; one major reason being lack of awareness with regard to the remedial measures.” Further, it stated that “the owners of the firm were very unrelenting initially and were about to go scot free leaving the employees in the lurch had it not been for the

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timely intervention.”

Meanwhile, it was informedthatforanyassistance regarding police cases in Delhi, one can reach the 24-hour Delhi Police Helpline Number specifically dedicated for the North East people at 1093 or the respective State representatives of the Delhi Police. Representatives for Nagaland are Chumbemo M Patton – 9871185736, Apfuzo Puro- 9582927696, and Herangia- 8750478416.

Live Worship featuring Hillsong London

KohiMa, February

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Tourists seen during the Sekrenyi festival celebration in Kohima village on February 21. The 22 (MexN): The Youth festival was organized by Kohima Village Youth Organization (KVYO) in collaboration with Department of the NagaMusic Task Force. Morung Photo/Chizokho Vero

land Baptist Church Council (NBCC) is organizing a “Live Worship” featuring the “Hillsong London” with the theme “The Sound of the New Generation” for young and old from March 27–29 at Kohima Local Ground.

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A release received here informed that Pastor Gary Clarke, Senior Pastor, Hillsong London will be the main speaker whereas various local artists will present Cultural Fusion. There will be three different kinds of workshops on March 28.

The NBCC youth department has requested all

ASU traditional stone pulling ceremony

KohiMa, February 22 (MexN): The Angami Students’ Union (ASU) is organizing a traditional stone pulling ceremony followed by erection of monolith for the proposed ASU branch office at Chümoukedima on February 28, 11:00 am. Customary incantation will be done

by Viselie Shüya, while ASU advisor Voto Neikha will chair the function. Speeches will be delivered by ASU president, CPO A giant Naga dao displayed during “Sekrenyi Kratsii” recently organised by Ketoukhrie Peli No-11, president and Chümoukedima Village T. Khel, Kohima village at Tsiituonuomia Zie, T. Khel Ground, Kohima village. Photo by Chizokho Vero Council. Rev. Lhouzovi-u Shüya will dedicate the monolith, while ASU Appropriations Council chairman Khrielievi Chüsi will propose vote of thanks. The function will be followed by feast.

Cleanliness drive in Dimapur

St. Joseph’s College 2nd Spring Fest

KohiMa, February 22 (MexN): St. Joseph’s College, Jakhama is organizing 2nd Spring Fest on March 7, where students will get opportunity to showcase and explore their talents in various fields such as music, art, sports, beat contest, folk dance, Naga spear throw, Naga wrestling etc.

DMC Administrator, H. Atokhe Aye speaking prior to the cleanliness drive in Dimapur on Sunday morning. (Morung Photo) Morung Express News Dimapur | February 22

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In collaboration with the Nyamo Lotha Road Business Owners’ Association Dimapur, the Sant Nirankari Mission Dimapur on Sunday organised a cleanliness drive along Nyamo Lotha Road with DMC Administrator, H. Atokhe Aye declaring open the cleanliness drive.

H. Atokhe Aye lauded the two organisations for coming together to clean the main business area

of Dimapur. He said the cleanliness drive of drainages was in line with the 2nd phase of developmental activities taken up by the DMC. He encouraged them to continue their yeoman service in the interest of the people. Further, Atokhe appealed to all sections of the people in Dimapur to cooperate with the DMC to fully execute its 2nd phase of developmental activities.

Sant Nirankari Mission representatives stated that its objective was not only

to maintain cleanliness in towns, streets, villages and the country but to evolve a green environment. By organizing the cleanliness drive, it also sought to send out a message to remove dirt from the soul and mind.

More than 100 volunteers from the Nyamo Lotha Road Business Owners’ Association Dimapur, Sant Nirankari Mission and DMC staff took part in Sunday’s cleanliness drive.

DCCI President, Hokivi Chishi also took part in the cleanliness drive.

Two arrested with ganja

KohiMa, February 22 (MexN): The police personnel of DEF Kohima manning Phesama check gate today arrested two persons for possessing and transporting contraband ganja. A press release from the police informed that the two accused, Kho @ James Poumai (22) and Asanü @ John Poumai (22), both from Senapati (Manipur), were transporting 95 kilo of contraband Ganja in a Maruti Alto bearing registration number NL-07/4524. In this connection, a regular case Vide Kohima South P.S Case No. 0022/2015 U/S 20 (1) (b) (ii) (c) NDPS Act has been registered and the accused remanded in police custody for further investigation.

the churches in Nagaland to sincerely pray for the said event, at the same time, invited every individual irrespective of denominations, young and old, far and near, to come and celebrate the Living God. For more information visit www.face- This drainage in the main town of Kiphire, on the way to Kipbook.com/hillsonglon- hire Town Council’s office, has been left unattended for few months causing inconvenience to the citizens. doninkohima

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Naga culture, the highlight of Nagaland Festival in Mumbai

MuMbai, February 22 (MexN): The Nagaland Festival 2015 organised in Mumbai on February 21 showcased the “perfect blending of intellect, creative flair, and grace,” stated a press release from the organisers. A joint initiative of Indian National Fellowship Centre and Naga Welfare Association, the festival was held under the theme 'Culture'. Naga culture was the highlight of the event in every possible manner, added the release.

Festival host Rozelle Mero pointed out issues that could be taken care of through initiatives by potential investors and higher authorities by making Nagaland an even more prosperous state.

Meanwhile, chief guest of the event, PB Acharya, Governor of Nagaland, Tripura & Assam, acknowledged that the festival was a very promising initiative by the Naga residents in Mumbai and he expressed support to the event. Stressing that Nagas are no different from the rest of the people in the country, he stated everyone should make a genuine effort to understand where the Nagas come from.

“The differences with the Nagas are to be celebrated and enjoyed as a unique experience by any non-Naga,” he stated.

Other speakers included Dr. DSA Deo and Dr. Meriyani Odyuo. The two dwelt on 'Cultural diversity in India and with the Nagas” and 'Cultural diversity in Nagas and with the world” respectively. They highlighted the

PB Acharya, Governor of Nagaland, Tripura & Assam during the Nagaland Festival 2015 held in Mumbai on February 21.

diversity and variety in thoughts of the people from Nagaland as well as that of people not from Nagaland, the release said.

According to the release, the festival was a doorway for the organisers to start a thought process in the minds of the crowd present to embrace the presence of Nagas in a unique way and also discover Nagaland in the best possible manner within the city.

More than 1,000 Nagas along with natives of Mumbai city attended the festival. “The event brought together Nagas and non-Nagas under one roof thus

creating a perfect ambience to share common interests in music, fashion, and not to forget the exotic Naga food items on display,” it said. The festival also had stalls where visitors could indulge in tasty treats, accessories, shawls, tea leaves from Nagaland, and even take photos posing as Naga warriors.

The main highlights of the festival were Special folk song, Theme movie, Naga folk dance, Fashion show by Bambi Kevichusa, Special Song by Alobo Naga, the release added.

For more information, visit: www.nagalandfestival.com

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REgional

The Morung Express

Cong grills workers to decode defeats Guwahati, February 22 (tNN): It's assessment time for Congress workers after the grand old party failed to put up a good show in last year's Lok Sabha polls and the recent urban civic election.

From grassroots workers to party legislators — all went back to the basics while answering an exhaustive list of questions ranging from Congress's ideology to the timing of announcing election tickets.

The list asks a host of questions relating to distribution of power among different levels of Congress, effective communication of the party's ideology among the masses and behaviour of party workers.

Congress members at Rajiv Bhawan, the party headquarters here, remained busy throughout Saturday. After filling up the

Gogoi hints at Congress tie-up with AIUDF Guwahati: Febraury 22 (tNN): Chief minister Tarun Gogoi said, except BJP, Congress is open to forming an alliance with any party for the assembly election next year.

Responding to reporters' questions on whether the party would tie up with All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF) ahead of the assembly polls, Gogoi said, if PDP could team up with BJP in Jammu & Kashmir, Congress could also form an alliance with any non-BJP party.

"Our party's (Congress's) door is open for everyone except BJP," he said. forms, they appeared before the party in-charge for Assam, C P Joshi, for another round of discussion that was videographed. Each group comprised 30 members.

The members were given five minutes to speak

Sources said Gogoi raised the issue of an alliance with AIUDF during a party meeting here on Friday.

The meeting was attended by the party's Assam in-charge, C P Joshi.

Joshi, however, refused to comment on the matter. He said no decision has been taken on the issue yet.

"When the time comes, we will think over it. At the moment, we have not decided anything," he said.

Political commentators said the fact that Congress is even contemplating an alliance with AIUDF, which it would not touch with a bargepole once, indicates its des-

about improving the party. The marathon exercise will continue till Monday.

Assam Pradesh Congress Committee president Anjan Dutta and other Congress leaders were also present.

Joshi arrived here on

peration to stop BJP's march in the assembly polls.

Over the years, AIUDF has significantly eaten into Congress's minority vote bank.

Meanwhile, AIUDF chief and Dhubri MP Badruddin Ajmal said his party has always maintained equidistance from Congress and BJP. "Like always, we (AIUDF) want to go it alone. Generating talks about forming an alliance before elections is Congress's way of creating confusion among the electorate," Ajmal said.

Friday for this exercise.

Even chief minister Tarun Gogoi met him at Rajiv Bhavan on Saturday.

"It's an exercise through which we are taking the views and opinions of Congress workers for amend-

ing our constitution. It is an effort to strengthen our party," Gogoi told reporters after the meeting. Many senior leaders of Congress said it's a 'do or die' situation in the face of BJP's ascendency in the state.

India and Indonesian Students demand Kokrajhar stoppage troops joint military for express train connecting Arunachal operation in Mizoram aizawl, February 22 (Pti): Sharing experiences in conduct of counter-terrorism and insurgency operations, troops of India and Indonesia participated in joint army exercises in Mizoram.

The exercise was aimed at building and promoting positive military-to-military relations between the armies of the two nations, defence officials said.

Exercise 'GARUDA SHAKTI-III' is the third one in the ongoing series of joint exercises between armies of India and Indonesia. Conducted for a period of 12 days, it ended on Saturday at the Counter Insurgency and JungleWarfareSchool in Mizoram's Vairengte.

The scope of the exercise included sharing experiences in counter terrorism and conduct of joint counter insurgency training at platoon level to neutralise terror threats.

The Indian Army was represented by troops from an Indian Infantry Battalion and Special Forces unit while personnel from 432 Battalion Kostrad Infantry (Airborne) and Gp I & Gp II of the Special Forces represented the Indonesian contingent.

The joint training was aimed at enhancing knowledge of each other's military experience, skills and techniques and thereby enhancing the aspect of interoperability and responsiveness to a common threat in the future, an army official said.

Guwahati, February 22 (ie): Even as Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the 22411 Naharlagun-New Delhi AC Express, linking the Arunachal Pradesh capital with the national capital, different students’ groups, including the All Bodo Students’ Union (ABSU), have demanded stoppages at Kokrajhar, Udalguri and Tangla stations for the new train.

“While we welcome the inclusion of Arunachal Pradesh capital in the country’s railway map, we are surprised why the 22411 AC Express linking Naharlagun with New Delhi has no stoppages at Udalguri and Kokrajhar. We urge the railways to immediately announce stoppages for this train in the two important stations,” said ABSU president Pramod Boro and general secretary Lawrence Islary.

They pointed out that while Kokrajhar is not only the headquarters of the Bodoland Territorial Autonomous Districts (BTAD), it is also important for people of southeastern Bhutan. “Announcing stoppages at Kokrajhar and Udalguri, headquarter town of the district by the same name under BTAD will boost the economy of the backward districts, it will also immensely benefit the people for whom railways is the cheap-

Assam govt not doing its bit to tackle illegal migration: PVM Guwahati, February 22 (Pti): Prabajan Virodhi Manch (PVM), an NGO against infiltration, today said the Assam government was not doing its bit to tackle the illegal migration issue from Bangladesh.

Urging the Centre to intervene, the PVM alleged that documents are fraudulently being acquired by immigrants in Assam for including their names in the updated National Register of Citizenship (NRC), work for which has already begun.

"There is large scale fabrication of documents, birth certificates, identity proof, land documents etc which needs to be uncovered by a central agency

as such papers will be the basis for asking citizenship," PVM Convenor Upamanyu Hazarika told reporters here.

He also claimed that Under the Citizenship Act, 1955, an immigrant can be conferred citizenship in different phases upto December 3, 2004.

"This effectively shifts the NRC cut-off date for grant of citizenship to migrants from Bangladeshi from March 25, 1971 to December 3, 2004. This needs to be addressed by legislative measures," he added.

PVM also alleged that large amount of encroachment have taken place on government, forest and grazing land, but

the state government is not doing its bit.

PVM has already made detailed representations to Prime Minister, Union Home Minister, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, Union Minister of State PMO and Minister for Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) on February 13.

"We hope that the Central government considers our representation and acts expeditiously in addressing these grave issues which confronts the people of Assam," he added.

The organisation, registered under the Societies Registration Act 1860, was formed for identifying Bangladeshis and 'foreigners' by the legal process.

est mode of transport,” Boro and Islary said.

Local units of the ABSU, All Bodo Students’ Union (AASU) and other student bodies on the other hand have demanded a stoppage for the AC Express at Tangla, another important town in Udalguri.

Members of these student bodies also blocked the railway track on Friday when Modi flagged off the New Delhi-bound express train at Itanagar.

The 22411 Naharlagun – New Delhi AC Express that will leave Naharlagun at 9.10 pm every Tuesday and reach New Delhi at 11.40 pm every Thursday, will cover a distance of 2193kms in 50 hours and will have commercial stoppages at Harmuti, Rangapara North, Rangiya, New Bongaigaon, New Coochbehar, New Jalpaiguri, Barauni, Hajipur, Chhappra, Sewan, Gorakhpur, Lucknow and Kanpur.

Modi had on Friday also flagged off the Inter-City Express between Naharlagun and Guwahati apart from formally introducing the Naharlagun-Dekargaon (Tezpur) passenger train. Passengers travelling to Arunachal Pradesh, however, will have to obtain an Inner Line permit in order to enter the hill state that shares 1050 kms of the international boundary with China.

Apex body for Hindu Orgs in NE formed Guwahati, February 22 (MexN): An apex body for Hindu organisation in North East India, Purvottar Bharat Hindi Sevi Sanstha Sangh (PBHSSS), was formed Guwahati recently. The body which was formed January 31, was result of four consecutive high level meetings and deliberation from the representatives of all the NE states - to work for development and promotion of official language, Hindi in a “united manner”. Its working jurisdiction will be throughout the entire north east zone.

According to a press note from PBHSSS vice president, Dr. B. Philip, the apex body would address various issues relating to promotion, propagation and development of Hindi

and look after the various difficulties faced by the public as well as private Hindi “propagating agencies” at different level. It will also undertake teaching, training and textbook production and organize seminars to update the Hindi education system in the region. Further,the body will work in close coordination with Akhil Bharatiya Hindi Sanstha Sangh, New Delhi, a national level council of Hindi propagating agencies. The PBHSSS will also put forward recommendations and memorandums to the Government of India (MHRD) and the state government as per the “feasibility and expectation.” The meeting also elected office bearers and representatives from all the NE states.

The Big Picture: Mizoram gets into the spirit aizawl, February22 (iNdiaNexPress): From bootleggers to Church, vigilantes to youths, and government to opposition, the battle lines are still drawn a week before prohibition ends and liquor sales begin in the state. The longest lines, however, are for permits to buy alcohol, finds Adam Halliday.

The end of two decades of prohibition may be something to say cheers about for many in Mizoram, but not for the hundreds of bootleggers who eked out a living from it, including many women. Equally vocal about their “dread” are thousands of parents, devoted Christians and community leaders, who fear the open availability of alcohol will do more harm than good.

On July 10,2014 people across the state stayed glued to their television sets to watch live proceedings of one of the lengthiest debates on a single issue in recent memory, lasting almost seven hours. Finally, when a few minutes after 5 pm, the misleadingly titled Mizoram Liquor (Prohibition and Control) Bill was passed. Soon the rules accompanying the new law were revealed.

It would rely heavily on permits, including for buying alcohol, and also involve fines and jail terms for

a number of offences. Liquor card holders would be allowed no more than six bottles of strong liquor and 10 each of beer and wine every month. The punishment for breaking the law, varying from five days in jail to five years, would be longest for offences such as drink driving, causing ‘nuisance’ and drinking in public places — although magistrates have been provided amnesty powers to commute both fines and offences to community work. Most importantly, the new law would empower citizens to arrest offenders provided they were handed over to police or excise and narcotics officials.

On January 15, the new law came into force, oddly more than one and a half months before liquor was slated to be legally available in the state and before any permit had been issued. Since then, an estimated 40,000 people have applied for permits to have alcohol in the state. The applicants admit the process is cumbersome, but add that they are just happy to finally be allowed to drink legally.

They are required to submit a bank challan of Rs 520 each with their application forms, and once they have braved the bank queues for

it, submit the same after lining up once more. The long wait for the liquor cards starts after that, with their distribution yet to start. Even withdrawal of the form invites a fee of Rs 20.

Doing the math, that’s roughly Rs 2 crore or more in government coffers already, just from the issue of permits, not a bad start given the government hopes to rake in Rs 30 crore every year from the restricted sale of alcohol. That amount would roughly equal the Excise Department’s entire earnings in fines from those who broke the law in the two decades of prohibition. In addition, bonded warehouses that will bring in alcohol from outside and store it before it is sent to outlets have to pay Rs 1 lakh each per year to the government. The other major source of revenue for the government would be the licence fee collected from vendors, of Rs 50,000 each per annum. Only state PSUs (none of which has made profits in the recent past) and the ex-servicemen’s association are being allowed to run outlets, apart from the upmarket Aijal Club that has got permission to run a bar exclusively for members.

Every brand has to pay a fee to

be allowed to be sold in the state.

The government has steadfastly denied it covets liquor revenues, however, and the Excise Minister and other leaders have said on many other occasions that the government cares more for people suffering severe health problems because of consumption of spurious alcohol.

However, the Church and community-based organisations such as the Young Mizo Association are not convinced. Says Vanlalruata, general secretary of the Young Mizo Association, “It is our stand that total prohibition should stay, and we have and will continue to petition the government for it.”

Even the ruling Congress didn’t have it too easy. The Cabinet tellingly backtracked once on discussing the new law before it was finally introduced in the House. With the party enjoying total majority in the Assembly, it was smooth sailing then on.

The opposition parties continue to object, and the Mizo National Front has called a bandh on February 25. Apart from the rise in prices of various government services, the protest is against lifting of prohibition.

Monday

23 February 2015

Dimapur

3

Tripura CM Manik Sarkar demands recognition of Kokborok language aGartala, February 22 (aNi): Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar has raised his voice for the recognition of the state's tribal language, Kokborok, on International Mother Tongue Day. "We have given recognition to Kokborok as a state language, now the central government should also recognise it. There are 22 (Indian) languages recognised under the eighth schedule of the Constitution by the union government. For long the Tripura government have been asking the centre government why they are not recognising Kokborok language. We are again demanding to-

day to the centre to recognise Kokborok language under the eight schedule of the Constitution for its overall development and growth in systematic manner," he said at a function celebrating International Mother Language Day 2015 on Saturday.

International Mother Language Day was proclaimed by the General Conference of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in November 1999.

Various cultural programmes were performed to observe the day to promote linguistic and cultural diversity.

'M'laya children need not go back' CheNNai, February 22 (the hiNdu): Twenty parents in distant Meghalaya can now heave a sigh of relief with the Madras High Court quashing an order of the Child Welfare Committee that their children who are staying at Hosur in Krishnagiri district be transferred back to their home State. They can now continue their education, because the parents submitted that it was their decision that the children should study in Tamil Nadu. The children were staying at the Sri Niveditha Trust in Krishnagiri district. On October 24, 2013, the Child Welfare Committee, Krishnagiri, passed an order that they be sent back to Meghalaya. The petitioners’ wards were sent back to Meghalaya. Thereafter, pursuant to the High Court’s directive, the matter was examined by the Chief Secretary, Meghalaya. The official had recorded the parents’ statement.

Already, following an interim directive of the High

Court, the children were continuing their education at present as per their parents’ wishes.

When the matter came up before the First Bench comprising Chief Justice S.K.Kaul and Justice M.M.Sundresh, counsel for the National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) submitted that the parents’ stand could not be disputed. The Commission filed a report and the draft protocol on child trafficking.

The parents’ stand that

it was only as per their request the children were studying in Tamil Nadu was undisputed. Parents were the natural guardians of the children and entitled to take a decision. If they did not want the children to study here in the present scenario, they could take them back.The court called upon the Tamil Nadu and Meghalaya Governments to examine the suggestions given by the NCPCR for necessary action within four months. It quashed the impugned order.

TheTa TuTorials (Estd. 2006)

Lower P.R. Hill, Kohima, Nagaland

Admission Notice 1. Coaching for JEE (MAINS) – 2015 [for Engineering Courses] 2. Coaching for NSEE (Nagaland State Entrance Examination)/AIPMT-2015 [for MBBS, BDS & Allied Courses] Issue of Forms & Prospectus : In progress Admission : In progress Commencement of Classes : 02-03-2015 Contact No. (0370) 2226005

4

businEss

Monday

Dimapur

23 February 2015

The Morung Express

Modi bets on GM crops for second green revolution

New delhi, February 22 (reuters): On a fenced plot not far from Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s home, a field of mustard is in full yellow bloom, representing his government’s reversal of an effective ban on field trials of genetically modified (GM) food crops.

The GM mustard planted in the half-acre field in the grounds of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute in New Delhi is in the final stage of trials before the variety is allowed to be sold commercially, and that could come within two years, scientists associated with the project say.

India placed a moratorium on GM aubergine in 2010 fearing the effect on food safety and biodiversity. Field trials of other GM crops were not formally halted, but the regulatory sys-

tem was brought to a deadlock.

But allowing GM crops is critical to Modi’s goal of boosting dismal farm productivity in India, where urbanisation is devouring arable land and population growth will mean there are 1.5 billion mouths to feed by 2030 - more even than China.

Starting in August last year, his government resumed the field trials for selected crops with little publicity.

“Field trials are already on because our mandate is to find out a scientific review, a scientific evaluation,” Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar told Reuters last week.

“Confined, safe field trials are on. It’s a long process to find out whether it is fully safe or not.”

Modi was a supporter of GM crops when he was chief minister of Gujarat state over

a decade ago, the time when GM cotton was introduced in the country and became a huge success. Launched in 2002, Bt cotton, which produces its own pesticide, is the country’s only GM crop and covers 95 percent of India’s cotton cultivation of 11.6 million hectares (28.7 million acres).

From being a net importer, India has become the world’s second-largest producer and exporter of the fibre.

However, grassroots groups associated with Modi’s Hindu nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) have opposed GM crops because of the reliance on seeds patented by multinationals. The Swadeshi Jagran Manch, a nationalist group which promotes self-reliance, has vowed to hold protests if GM food crops are made commercially available.

“There is no scientific evidence that GM enhances productivity,” said Pradeep, a spokesman for the group. “And in any case, why should we hand over our agriculture to some foreign companies?”

A handful of agrichemical and seeds companies dominate the global market for GM crops, including Monsanto Co., DuPont Pioneer, a unit of DuPont, Dow AgroSciences, a unit of Dow Chemical, and Syngenta.

Second Green Revolution Largely agricultural India became self-sufficient in foodgrains after the launch of the Green Revolution in the 1960s, when it introduced highyielding seed varieties and the use of fertiliser and irrigation.

The challenge now is to replicate that success in edible oils and vegetables, which are in-

‘Poor show by SBI, 13 others in installing new ATMs’ New delhi, February 22 (Pti): Country’s largest bank SBI and newest lender Bhartiya Mahila Bank figure in list of 14 public sector banks wherein progress has been adjudged by the Finance Ministry as “below average” in installing ATMs. The government had given a target to the 27 state-owned banks to set up 19,994 ATMs in the current fiscal and by December end they have managed to cross only the halfway mark (10,511).

As per the Ministry’s progress report on installation of ATMs for the December 2014 quarter, Canara Bank, Corporation Bank, IDBI Bank, SBB&J and State Bank of Patiala have been adjudged “good”.

Except IDBI Bank, the other four had overshot the full fiscal target by December-end.

The remaining banks “need to improve” so

New delhi, February 22 (Pti): Telecom operators Airtel and BSNL are likely to sign a pan-India roaming pact within a month to strengthen their 2G mobile services in areas where either of them is having a weak or negligible presence.

“We are soon going to sign a pan-India intra-circle roaming agreement with Airtel with a focus to strengthen coverage in rural areas. Commercials are being worked out. This is most likely to signed within a month,” BSNL Chairman and Managing Director Anupam Shrivastava told PTI. When contacted, Airtel did not comment on the matter. Shrivastava said the deal is a part of the BSNL strategy to spend carefully on building infrastructure and use sharing rules to bring down opera-

IBA agrees to meet bank unions on Monday to avert nationwide strike The unions have threatened the strike to press wage-hike demand; this would be their fifth strike this fiscal MuMbai, February 22 (Pti): The Indian Banks Association has decided to hold further talks with leaders of public sector bank unions who have given a call for four-day nationwide strike from February 25.

“The IBA has invited us for talks on Monday in Mumbai and we have agreed to participate in the talks,” United Forum of Bank Unions (Maharashtra)

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 # 3146

tional cost besides providing good network to consumers.

“We have made ‘co-opetition’ (co-operative competition) as one of the key strategies. Under this we are looking at opportunity where we can co-operate with other players to expand our business,” he said.

BSNL has invested about Rs 4,000 crore in the latest network expansion (phase 7). It is expected to be completed

by June 2015.

Airtel claims its mobile network with 1,42,898 base stations covers an area of 87 per cent of India’s population.

BSNL’s mobile network covers an area of 72 per cent of country’s population which will further increase after completion of phase 7 network expansion.

ous concern,” said Manvendra Singh Inaniya, a campaigner for Greenpeace India.

“This leaves us vulnerable to contamination with untested and potentially hazardous GM food. We urge the Union Government to roll back approvals given to open air field trials of GM crops.”

But the environment ministry official said studies have found no ill effects from GM foods and that local firms should partner with multinationals like Monsanto, which has already licensed its Bt Cotton product to several Indian companies.

“Farmers are smart and deserve wider choices,” a spokesman for Monsanto in India said. “They will only reward products, practices and partnerships which create value on their farms.”

RBI to issue norms for single authentication in few weeks: Khan New delhi, February 22 (Pti): The Reserve Bank will soon come out with single authentication payment norms for low value e-commerce transactions through debit or credit cards without compromising on security. The norms will decide the amount qualifying for low value transaction.

“The process is under way... We will come out with guidelines (on single authentication payment) in the next few weeks,” RBI Deputy Governor H R Khan told PTI. At present, a two-step authentication is prevalent in India unlike developed nations. The first step of authentication is feeding a secure number and the next step is punching in of another secure code or One Time PIN (OTP).

Rajan disapproves inheritance tax idea

steep decline in net profit amid rising bad loans and record low credit growth.

The unions are also demanding a five-day week as in other public sector undertakings and regulated banking hours against the present system of not having defined working hours for officers.

However, an IBA official said that five-day week was not acceptable to the government, and regulated hours were not feasible either as the daily work has to be completed anyway.

UFBU also wants that about three lakh vacancies in the sector be filled up, but it is opposed to contract hiring or outsourcing.

MuMbai, February 22 (Pti): Strongly disapproving the idea of inheritance tax, Reserve Bank Governor Raghuram Rajan has advocated a “cultural change” which pulls the rich towards philanthropy or giving back to the society.

“I would argue rather than a blanket inheritance tax, let’s change the culture. Make it such that people don’t want to leave a lot of wealth for their children,” he said while delivering the keynote address at DD Kosambi Festival of Ideas in Panaji over the weekend.

Specifically speaking on inheritance tax idea, he said: “I think rather than bringing

_

LEISURE

month, Maharashtra gave the all-clear to open field trials of rice, chickpeas, corn and aubergine, as well as new varieties of cotton.

Punjab, ruled jointly by the BJP and a local party, gave the go-ahead for mustard in October followed next month by Delhi, then indirectly run by the federal government in the absence of a local government.

“The (federal) government is, for a change, being decisive,” Pental said, adding his mustard strain could be ready to be released for commercial farming in a year or two.

Environmental group Greenpeace however remains opposed.

“The current government’s rush with open field trials without addressing the fundamental loopholes in the regulatory mechanism is a matter for seri-

Airtel, BSNL to sign pan-India intra-circle roaming pact

that they could meet the target planned for them for the fiscal ending March 2015.

Target for SBI was 500 new ATMs, but it installed only 218 by end of December quarter. Of these, 115 were set up in the three months period through December 2014.

Bhartiya Mahila Bank was to install 100 ATMs, but it has put in place only 14 (7 were set up during December quarter).

The 27 government banks together had 1,18,082 ATMs across the country at end-December 2014.

Meanwhile, the government and private banks together have opened over 12.54 crore accounts under the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojna and about 11.08 crore Rupay Debit Cards issued to the beneficiaries.

and All-India Bank Employees Union vice-president Vishwas Utagi said.

The unions have threatened the strike to press wage-hike demand. This will be their fifth strike this fiscal.

IBA has offered a 13 percent hike which will put a burden of Rs 4,095 crore on the banks, against the unions’ demand of 19.5 percent hike which would increase the salary bill by Rs 10,000 crore per annum.

The twenty-eight public sector banks in the country have a combined employee strength of about eight lakhs.

Most state-run banks have been reporting huge losses or

creasingly in demand.

India imports about 60 percent of its edible oil needs at an annual cost of up to $10 billion - its third-biggest import item after crude oil and gold.

The trials of the mustard plant, which provides the highest yield of all oilseeds, are being led by Delhi University researchers headed by Deepak Pental, a scientist who returned to India in 1985 from Britain. He has said that he has developed a transgenic mustard strain that raises output by up to 30 percent but that further trials were halted after the moratorium.

The environment ministry began approving GM field trials in August, although applicants need to seek no-objection certificates from states where the trials are to be conducted.

States ruled by the BJP are spearheading the trials: Last

people down, our focus should be on taking people up.

“How do we give opportunity to many more people?

Inheritance tax only helps the lawyers in the society,” he said.

“A dramatic estate tax generates value for lawyers as they figure out ways to hide the estate so that it does not get taxed,” he said.

His views come amidst some voices seeking an inheritance tax in the forthcoming Budget, which would mean people may have to pay for inheriting a priced property. According to the votaries, this ensures the society ceases being aristocratic.

Pointing to the larger play of

philanthropies in the Western corporate world, Rajan said the Western world has a better way of dealing with the issue, which is to “shame” the rich into devoting wealth for good causes.

“One thing the West does very well is to shame them into giving it away so that they feel that they are participating in it of their own will.

It is a good way, as now they want to make money because they like to give it away later.”

Citing the example of John D Rockefeller, Rajan said that even though the oil maganate made his wealth in an “awful” way, he did a lot good to the mankind though his philan-

DAILY CROSS WORD

CROSSWORD # 3156

Answer Number # 3145

DIMAPUR Civil Hospital:

thropic efforts like the University of Chicago and a centre for medical research.

Rajan welcomed the change in India Inc which has led to creation of foundations, schools, colleges and universities. Rajan also noted that many have publicly taken the Bill Gates pledge of giving back to the society.

The central bankers also said the system must “incentivice” the people to create wealth, which in turn has a spillover effect in form of job creation, and stressed that the country needs to respect that for some people leaving some wealth for the kids would be a priority.

STD CODE: 03862 232224; Emergency229529, 229474

Metro Hospital:

227930, 231081

Faith Hospital:

228846

Shamrock Hospital

228254

Zion Hospital:

231864, 224117, 227337

Police Control Room

228400

Police Traffic Control

232106

East Police Station West Police Station

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CIHSR (Referral Hospital)

242555/ 242533

Dimapur hospital

224041, 248011

Apollo Hospital Info Centre:

230695/ 9402435652

Railway:

131/228404

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229366

Nagaland Multispe- 248302, cialty Health & 09856006026 Research Centre

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FREEZING

VISITED

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ACROSS

1. Attendants of knights 6. Faucets 10. Misplaced 14. Midday meal 15. Wreckage 16. Reflected sound 17. A kind of macaw 18. Bright thought 19. University administrator 20. A type of biologist 22. Overhang 23. Conspiracy 24. The intersection of two streets 26. Russian emperor 30. In the past 31. Derisive laugh 32. Highest point 33. Bog 35. November birthstone 39. Detective (slang) 41. Supple 43. Clobbered 44. Render unconscious 46. Goddess of discord 47. One time around 49. Euro forerunner 50. Tidy 51. Give in 54. Rubber wheel

56. Feathery scarves 57. The audience of a newspaper 63. Vandals 64. Forearm bone 65. Avoid 66. Iridescent gem 67. A promiscuous woman 68. Part of the large intestine 69. Depend 70. Being 71. Informs

DOWN

1. Scheme 2. Emanation 3. Annoying insect 4. Beige 5. Not dull 6. Stories covering three novels 7. Accounts inspector 8. Desserts 9. Grab 10. Leather shorts 11. Sea 12. Trim 13. Laser printer powder 21. San Antonio fort 25. Horse feed 26. Labels

27. Pond gunk 28. Ammunition 29. Worriedly 34. Clarify 36. Minute opening 37. Dogfish 38. Gusto 40. A person who is in charge 42. Accustom 45. Lockjaw 48. Examine closely 51. Loathe 52. Two-door car 53. Artificial waterway 55. Construct 58. L L L L 59. Blackthorn 60. Body of a ship 61. False god 62. Writing implements Ans to CrossWord 3155

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

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CHUMUKEDIMA: 03862 282777/101 (O) 9856158740 (OC)

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MOKOKCHUNG:

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STD CODE: 0369

2226241

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2226214

Civil Hospital: Woodland Nursing Home:

2226216 2226263

Hotel Metsüpen (Tourist Lodge):

2226373/2229343

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

CURRENCY EXCHANGE CURRENCY NOTES

222246 222491

BUY(Rs)

SELL(Rs)

US Dollars Sterling Pound Hong Kong Dollar Australian Dollar Singapore Dollar Canadian Dollar Japanese Yen

60.80 93.67 7.59 47.37 44.67 48.63 50.78

63.57 98.25 8.45 49.71 46.91 51.02 54.09

Euro

69.04

72.41

Thai Baht Korean Won New Zealand Dollar Chinese Yuan

1.81

2.01

0.0529

0.059

45.72

47.99

9.37

10.44

LOCAL

The Morung Express

state conducts 2nd Phase of IPPI

dimapur, February 22 (mexN): Individuals and organisations have come forward to condemn the firing of gunshots and bomb blast at the residences of members of the State Legislative Assembly.

It may be recalled that on February 18, shots were fired and a grenade was hurled at the residence of Dr. Benjongliba Aier in Dimapur while on February 21, a bomb exploded just outside the wall of Parliamentary Secretary Y. Vikheho Swu’s residence and about 10 meters away from the private residence of Parliamentary Secretary Deo Nukhu.

G. Kaito Aye

Kohima: In the State capital, the second phase of IPPI was launched on Sunday with a target to immunize 38,808 children in the eligible age group.

A press release from the Chief Medical Officer’s (CMO) Office, Kohima informed that Mobile Polio Teams on IPPI would be visiting Transit points, especially bus, railway stations and Taxi stands all over for the next two days.

DPO (UIP-RCH) Kohima, Dr. Avile Zao has informed that IPPI health workers and volunteers would be conducting School visits and house-tohouse visits on February 23 and 24 and in this regard has asked school authorities, parents, community leaders and Colony Chairmen to cooperate with the

medical department.

Tsanglao SDO (Civil) as Chief Guest.

A press release from the CMO Kiphire informed that the chief guest in his short speech encouraged the public to support the campaign against Polio.

Dy. CMO, Dr. Tinurenla also urged that all children below 5 years be immunized. The function was chaired by Dr. Rebecca Y Sema, DPO (RCH& UIP) and the pastor of NAP Baptist Church dedicated the program. The Chief Guest administered the first dose of polio vaccine.

Tuensang: In Tuensang District, the second round IPPI was launched with a target to immunize around 27,552 children. A press release from the CMO informed that, 230 booths have been set up in the district and around 920 vaccinators and 48 supervisors are being involved in the campaign against polio. In Tuensang town alone, 26 booths with 104 vaccinators were deployed and 7 supervisors from all vertical programmes were actively involved.

Mokokchung: The inaugural function Dimapur: of the second round of IPPI In Dimapur, the second in Mokokchung was held at phase of IPPI was launched Imlong place. Bendanglila, at District Hospital DimaADC Mokokchung was the pur by Dr. M.A. Wati, Chief chief guest on the occasion Medical Officer, Dimapur and administered the first with the administration drop of polio. of the first polio drops to a A press release informed new born baby at District that 800 health workers with Hospital, Dimapur. A press assistance from Red Cross, release received here inRotary Club, youth volunformed. teers, ASHAs and anganDr. Imchameren, Dy. wadi workers will cover 190 CMO and Dr. D. Mero, booths in the entire district.

Medical Superintendent, Two drops of polio were adDistrict Hospital along with ministered to the eligible staff and various Health children from the booth Programme Officers and on Sunday. The release instaff under CMO establishformed that house to house ment were present during administration of the drops the brief inaugural funcwill be conducted from tion which was chaired by Monday onwards with the Dr. Lanuakum, DPO, RCHaim to cover all the children UIP, Dimapur. in the eligible age group.

103 Supervisors were Dr. Kika Longkumer, detailed to monitor 517 Deputy Director from DiPolio booths set up in Directorate of Health and mapur District to immuFamily Welfare, Kohima nize the target population visited the district as the of 53,168 children. 104% state monitoring and suof coverage was achieved pervision team and is visduring the First Round of iting different pockets in IPPI 2015 which was conthe district. ducted in January, the reThe inaugural function lease informed. was chaired by Dr. Limatola Kiphire: DPO (UIP & RCH). Dr. S.S. In Kiphire, the second Akaba Longchar CMO and round of IPPI was formal- Dr. Kibang Dy. CMO, Moly inaugurated at Police kokchung also attended Point with T. Lankonsen the Programme.

'Education & Employability/Skill Development' workshop from today

Kohima, February 22 (mexN): A two-day workshop on “Education and Employability/skill development” under the aegis of Mount Olive College Kohima in association with Rajiv Gandhi National Institute of Youth Development, Ministry of Skill Development, Entrepreneurship, Youth Affairs & Sports and Film & Cultural Society of North East will take place from February 23 to 24 at Mount Olive College, Kohima.

The resource persons of the workshop include; Rahul Jain, secretary, Film & Cultural Society North East, S. Temsulong Jamir, joint director, (Tech) In-

dustries & Commerce, Government of Nagaland, Kohima, Neichute Duolo, coordinator, Entrepreneurs Associates, Kohima, Daniel Malangmei, entrepreneur, Rohan KL. Abraham, CEO, India Trail, Experience Travel Company Kohima, Nino Zhasa, Travel Consultant and Managing Director of Explore Nagaland, Theja Meru, musician and entrepreneur, Kohima and Solomon, assistant manager, Vijaya Bank Kohima.

The inaugural function will take place on February 23 at 9:30 am with Y. Kikheto Sema, IAS, secretary finance, Nagaland as chief guest. Arenla Longkumer,

programme coordinator, asst. professor, Department of English, Mount Olive College Kohima will chair the function. Welcome address will be delivered by Dr. Narendra Tiwary, principal, Mount Olive College, Kohima while keynote address will be delivered by Rahul Jain. Vote of thanks will be proposed by Swedezhono Tsiikrii, vice principal, Mount Olive College, Kohima.

Session I will start from 10:50 am.

The main objective of the seminar is to enable the youth to realize their dreams, a press release informed.

SBC conducts 3-day father’s camp Kohima, February 22 (mexN): The Sishunu Baptist Church (SBC) conducted a three-day long Father’s Camp at GCYM Centre, Sovima in Dimapur from February 20 to 22 under the theme “Introspection.”

The speakers of the camp included Dr. Phanenmo Kath, lecturer, ETC Jorhat, Assam; Rev. Kilang Jamir, director, Youth Harvest Ministry,

Dimapur; Wachu Kath, pastor, Sishunu Baptist Church. Thomas Wanth, joint director (Rtd), was the workshop resource person.

Around 80 fathers attended the camp.

Some of the topics covered during the camp included; “Introspection of spouse and family relationship,” “Introspection of financial obligation towards family and church,”

“Introspection of media impact on family; father’s response,” “Father’s role in leading the family in the challenging world,” “Duties and responsibilities of a father” and “Introspection of family worship and devotion to God.” The camp was marked by workshop, sightseeing, recreation & games, devotion and prayer, exercise etc. Fore Runners led the praise and worship.

23 February 2015

Dimapur

5

More condemn gunfire, blast

G. Kaito Aye “Leader Chief Medical Officer, Dimapur administering the first drops of Polio during the 2nd NPF Legislature Party” Round of IPPI at District Hospital Dimapur on Sunday. dimapur, February 22 (mexN): Nagaland, along with the rest of India, began the second phase of Intensive Pulse Polio Immunization (IPPI) for the year 2015 on Sunday.

This is a follow-up to the 1st round of IPPI 2015 which was conducted on January 18, where a total of 2,23,608 eligible children below 5 years were successfully administered Polio drops throughout the state.

The Department of Health & Family Welfare is preparing to administer Polio drops to a target of over 2.46 lakh eligible children from 0-5 years in all the 11 districts during the second round. A total of 2,317 Polio Booths will be set up and manned by 9,268 vaccinators and 463 supervisors along with vaccines and other logistics.

Special focus will be given to the migrant population with an aim to prevent importation of Polio cases.

Monday

has strongly condemned the serial blasts at the private residence of Dr. N. Benjongliba Aier and Deo Nukhu on February 18 and 21 respectively. “I am of the considered view that at this moment of trying time for the Naga people where tussle of the NPF family is in the Court of ECI, people should not tailor to extract their pound of flesh to create confusion and give room for blaming one another,” a condemnation note from Kaito stated.

Kaito fervently urged upon the law enforcing agencies to investigate “these unfortunate incidences” in a very meticulous manner so that the perpetrators of such heinous crime be brought to book at the earliest to face the law of the land. “In the interest of the society, the concerned authority should update the progress of the case and timely information should

be provided in the public domain,” Kaito stated.

Further, Kaito appealed to the public not to panic but to extend full co-operation to the concerned authority.

CHK The Chakhesang Hoho, Kohima (CHK) has strongly condemned the blast in Kohima. A condemnation note appended by CHK’s Acting President Vethikhoyi Khamo stated that the dastardly act was nothing but a cowardly and inhuman act. It added that threatening each other’s lives and disturbing the peaceful atmosphere thereby bringing the lives of the innocent people at stake can never be tolerated. The Hoho appealed to the law enforcing agencies to book the culprits at the earliest.

in Dimapur on February 18 and at the state capital on February 21. “The unwarranted act of terror, destruction of properties and disturbing the peaceful lives of fellow citizens with illegal weapons and means is an act too devilish and anti Naga under whatsoever situation or conditions,” AYO stated.

“We own moral responsibility to see that its inhabitant’s lives and properties are being duly protected and honored and it will always be the priority call of the Organization to respond to any activities that threaten and disrupt the lives, properties and the peace that exist in the area. We will be challenged to rise up against any people/ groups/ organizations who ever harbor / perpetrate such demonic activities in our area. AYO dares the perpetrators of the acts to own up for a healthy reasoning,” AYO added AYO also regrettably noted the lapse of security at a “supposedly well secured VIP” area. AYO urged upon the Security and Law enforcing agencies to augment security measures and to thoroughly investigate into the incident and book the culprits at the earliest.

Pochury Organisations The Pochury Hoho, Pochury Students Union, Pochury Women Organisation and the Pochury GB Union has condemned the bomb blast in Kohima.

Expressing strong condemnation on the incident where three vehicles including one Government Registered Bolero belonging to Eyekowe, Personel Secretary to Parliamentary Secretary for School Education, Yitachu, the Pochury organisations stated that CRPOK The Chizami Range such act upon parked vehiPublic Organization, Kohicles “ultimately tantamount ma (CRPOK) has also conto attempted murder.” demned the bomb blast triggered by unscrupulous AYO The Angami Youth Or- miscreants. A press release ganization (AYO) has ex- issued from CRPOK urged pressed serious concern the concern authority to over the rising spate of apprehend the culprit at violence in the state, par- the earliest and initiate ticularly the “act of terror” necessary action.

DYO condemns sexual assault Kohima, February 22 (mexN): The Dapfhutsumia Youth Organisation (DYO), Kohima Village has strongly condemned the sexual assault of a Naga lady near Razhu point Kohima by one Sanjay Sahani of Motihari Village, Bihar on February 19.

A press release from DYO took exception to reports in local dailies where the accused Sanjay Sahani had claimed to be a resident of D. Khel, Kohima Village.

Expressing anguish, DYO clarified that Sahani was not a resident of D. Khel but instead resided in some other

colony. It further stated that the accused had for the past few days earned his daily wage by doing manual labour in D. Khel.

DYO further warned the accused to stay away from the village jurisdiction and demanded stringent punishment.

MTYO condemns attempt to murder Demands that the two youths be handed over before Feb 26 medziphema, February 22 (mexN): The Medziphema Town Youth Organisation (MTYO) has vehemently condemned the “barbaric action” of attempt to murder by two youths with a pistol on another youth, fatally injuring him at Medziphema Town on February 19. MTYO identified the two youths as Sapu Sitlhou and Thomas (Thouma), both belonging to Kuki

community. In this regard, MTYO demanded that the Chairman, Kuki Community, Medziphema hand over the said two youths to them.

On receipt of the news, MTYO held an emergency meeting and issued a summon letter to the Chairman, Kuki Community, Medziphema. In a copy of the summon letter made available to the media, MTYO demanded that the Chairman hand

over the two youths along with the arms used to commit the said crime to MTYO within 5 days (i.e., on or before February 26.

MTYO warned that failing to abide to the summon letter may invite further consequences upon the Kuki community in Medziphema. “MTYO may take its own course of action for delivery of justice,” it warned.

NCSU The Nagaland Contractors and Suppliers Union (NCSU) has strongly condemned the February 18 and 21 incidents.

It stated that the motive of the miscreants in both incidents is solely to disturb the peaceful atmosphere of the State by creating fear in the minds of our leaders as well as the people. NCSU appealed to the State Government to take immediate strong action in booking the culprits and awarding befitting punishment.

NCSU appealing to the Legislative members reminded them that they are elected by the people to be responsible leaders and to give their best in protecting the interest of the people of Nagaland.

Further stating that “it is not a time to be silent spectators of what is happening around us,” NCSU also appealed to all NGOs, led by the Naga Hoho, “to work and voice out for the betterment of the Nagas.”

SAKK The Sumi Aphuyemi Kiphimi Kuqhakulu (SAKK) has strongly condemned the bomb blast in Kohima.

“At this juncture it creates fear psychosis especially in the mind of those innocent students who are physically and mentally preparing for the HSLC and HSSLC,” SAKK stated. Further expressing wonder as to why Naga society adopted the practise of “gun-bomb culture from the advancing countries where there is no value of life.”

hemently condemn is too small a phrase to describe the boom blast.” The Media Cell added, “This selective and serial boom blasts occurring with deadly coincidences is quite perplexing and we have run out of words to profile the ill-motive actions of the pawn in political Chess Board of Nagaland. Can any Anti-social elements dare to execute their sinister design in broad daylight? Can any sane person master enough guts to attack his enemy in the most secure area of his domain?”

DJSTR The Dimapur Japukong Senso Teintet Rogo (DJSTR) has vehemently condemned the gunshots and lobbing of bomb at Dr. Benjongliba’s residence in Dimapur.

A press release from the association president Lanuniken stated that all 59 MLAs had voted for TR Zeliang on February 5 during the Floor Test in the state assembly and Dr. Benjongliba has remained firm to stick to his decision made on that day. “In appreciation of his bold decision and stand, we the Dimapur Japukong Senior Citizens hereby affirm that we are cohesively behind our MLA,” the release stated.

It further requested the concerned authority to leave no stone unturned to investigate and apprehend the culprits at the earliest.

SKK The All Sumi Students Union (SKK) has also strongly condemned the incidents.

It appealed to the investigation authority to apprehend NPF Press and Media Cell and book the culprits at the The NPF Press and Me- earliest and award befitting dia Cell has stated that “Ve- punishment.

MEx FILE NSCN (K) discharges two dimapur, February 22 (mexN): NSCN/GPRN (Khaplang) has honourably discharged with immediate effect Deputy Kilonser Nikuto Awomi, Ministry of Religious Affairs and Deputy Secretary Mughato of Koiboto Village on health grounds. A press release on behalf of the President’s Office, NSCN/GPRN, informed that the NSCN/GPRN acknowledges their sincere and selfless services rendered to the national cause and wish them long and prosperous lives ahead.

Tuensang Medical Board postponed TueNsaNg, February 22 (mexN): The Chief Medical Officer, Tuensang, has informed all the HODs of Tuensang District that the Medical Board for NonGazetted Government Employees for declaration of Permanency, Invalidation & Commutation has been postponed till further notification due to unavoidable circumstances.

ANSTGA to host CISTA meeting dimapur, February 22 (mexN): The All Nagaland Small Tea Growers’ Association (ANSTGA) will host the executive council meeting of Confederation of Indian Small Tea Growers’ Association (CISTA) in Dimapur during May 2015. This was confirmed during the CISTA EC meeting held at Tezpur in Assam on February 14 last.

Nousi Kharu inauguration ENWO’S Peace Mission tour Kohima, February ronment & Wildlife Dr. Nicky

TueNsaNg, February 22 (mexN): The Eastern Nagaland Women Organisation (ENWO) undertook a Peace Mission tour to the violence hit areas in Tuensang district from February 18 to21.

A press release from ENWO informed that while interacting and encouraging the District administration and Police, it reaffirmed to extend full support and cooperation in their pursuit to bring about peace and normalcy in the district.

ENWO met with all the

9,10,11and 13th IR Battalions stationed at different locations stretching from Tuensang town to Yakor village, and encouraged them to keep up their tireless vigil in the area. Further, ENWO made some contributions to the displaced families in the area.

In separate meetings with the Changsao Thangjam Setshang (CTS) and Yimchunger Women Organisation (YWO), ENWO urged upon both organisations to join hands in peace building and conflict prevention

so that deadly conflicts can be effectively avoided. It also stressed on how exposure to violence can have adverse impact on our economy and have grave negative effects on children leading them to mental health disturbances thereby affecting their all round development, the release informed.

ENWO further urged church leaders to extend their ministry beyond the pulpit and play effective role by mobilising youths to inculcate the biblical sense of love and brotherhood.

CondolenCes SVSU: The Shamator Village Student's Union has mourned the sudden demise of late Rev. N. Yanger, Retired Pastor of Shamator Village Baptist Church at his residence in Kangtsung. A condolence message informed that the deceased rendered his selfless service for the upliftment of the church during his service for 30 years as a pastor since 1983. “We considered him as a man of God. We will ever cherish his

good deeds and convey our heartfelt condolence to the bereaved family members,” the message concluded.

DGU: The Dimapur Gorkha Union (DGU) has condoled the demise of Dilmaya Sharma, Mother of Sanjay Pandey Chettri, Chief Advisor, DGU, who breathed her last on February 22.

A condolence message from Dipak Lama, Chairman Disciplinary Action

Committee stated that she was 90 years old. Expressing deep condolences to the bereaved family, the DGU prayed that the Almighty would give strength at this hour of grief. It also prayed that her soul rest in peace.

Further, it informed that the funeral service will be held on February 23 at 10:00 AM at her residence, House No. GBC 03 in Nepali Basti, Dimapur.

22 (mexN): The inauguration of Tsütuonuomia Khel’s “Nousi Kharu” (traditional Naga village gate) will take place on February 25 at 12:00 noon at Lower T. Khel, Kohima village.

The gate, a monument dedicated to understanding and unity, is christened “Nousi Kharu.” The Tsütuonuomia Khel community is installing the gate after 39 years, since the last traditional gate pulling and installation ceremony.

Minister for Forest, Envi-

Kire will grace the occasion as chief guest, while Khriehu Liezietsu, Parliamentary Secretary for Youth Resources & Sports, New & Renewable Energy and Music Task Force, will be the guest of honour. After the inauguration, it will proceed to T. Khel Ground where a function will take place.

Meanwhile, the organizing committee and T. Khel Council have extended invitation to all T. Khel, Kewhimia, friends, and well wishers.

REACH awareness camp pFuTsero, February 22 (mexN): Rural Education & Action for Change (REACH), Pfutsero organised awareness camp on “Combating Desertification, Land Degradation & Drought” here on February 16 under “National Environment Awareness Campaign.” It was sponsored by Nagaland Pollution Control Board and Ministry of Environment & Forests, Government of India.

Resource person of the camp, Lutovi Pucho, Drug

Controller, Pfutsero, spoke on environmental concerns in Nagaland, informed a press release. The resource person explained on managing soil acidity to increase crop production and pointed out few red-listed environmental concerns of our State. The practice of jhum cultivation is a serious factor for soil degradation, Pucho said, adding cleaning and burning of vegetation/ jungle annually at different virgin-soils is truly degrading the quality of soil.

6

IN-FOCUS

The Power of Truth

The Morung Express MonDAy 23 fEbruAry 2015 voluME X IssuE 51

Along Longkumer Consulting Editor

Policy, Governance & IBIs

O

f the many concern facing Nagaland and our people is the growing presence of illegal Bangladeshi immigrants (IBIs) in our midst. Not that Nagas should be unwelcoming of outsiders, but the fact remains that the presence of IBIs and their growing numbers if left unchecked will do more harm than good to the Naga social fabric, economic interests and political security in the future.

And there is now growing evidence that, besides promoting all sorts of crimes and illegal activities, IBIs are being used by Naga Political Groups (NPGs) to extort money from the Naga public, which is simply unacceptable for any self-respecting people and to our integrity. The failure of the existing State machinery and frontline civil society organizations to address this concern for all these years has led to the rise of the reform movement under the name of ‘Survival Nagaland’, which was formed recently to act as a pressure group and to address the issue of ‘unchecked’ and ‘unmonitored’ influx of illegal immigrants to Nagaland. ‘Survival Nagaland’ is in line with ‘Survival Mokokchung’ launched by Ao students in the district some years back to put a check on the influx of illegal immigrants and to take control of all business establishments by the locals. We should welcome this new consciousness amongst us and have self-belief in ourselves to solve our own problems.

While a sustained and collective effort will be required to put our plans and visions into action for a better Nagaland, one area that we will do well to improve is the existing policy and governance deficit when it comes to tackling the issue of IBIs. For whatever reason, the concern over IBIs has never become an election issue in Nagaland. This has to change with political parties taking a more forthright stand and the voting public equally demanding. At present, perhaps the BJP is the only party that has tried to mention this in its election manifesto with greater intent. In this regard, the BJP has promised to complete the construction of a border fence along India’s borders with Bangladesh in order to stop such infiltration. The less said the better about the Indian National Congress when it comes to illegal immigration as it has remained silent all these years. Interestingly, the Common Minimum Programme of the NPF led DAN Alliance has stated that it would implement in letter and spirit in detecting, deleting and deporting of illegal immigrants. The NPF manifesto in 2013 even promises to make the ILP (inner line permit) system fully computerized with a statewide data bank and check the misuse of the system by government officers, employees and contractors and initiate steps to detect illegal infiltrators and delete their names from electoral rolls. Obviously, the NPF led government has been busy with its in-fighting when in fact it should have been focusing on implementing the promises it has made during the last elections. The present government should be made accountable on the issue of IBIs. On the governance deficit, much more has to be done to create a sound mechanism that will involve framing of a clear cut security plan, able administration, strong-effective policing, community support and political will on the part of the establishment, be it the State government or NPGs. To start off with, Dimapur should be given priority as it is the gateway for such illegal immigrants and also the hub for all sorts of illegal activities. The State government should seriously consider expanding both civil and police administration in Dimapur district or atleast streamlining work forces for better coordination and effect on the ground. This may include the creation of zones under separate Deputy Commissioners and Superintendent of Police. An out of the box suggestion here is that the present DC office should be retained to look after, besides the administration of old Dimapur (urban), specific tasks like ILP and border management. The growing concern over the menace of illegal immigrants will require more than just emotional outbursts and rhetoric. It will need a concerted plan of action. This we should do by way of clear policy formulation and implementation.

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

lEfT WING |

Mazie Nakhro, Ph.D

Day 33: May Your Kingdom Come on Earth Thought-Provoking Question: We are told that God will establish His kingdom on earth someday. How will it look then?

What does God say? Read Isaiah 65:17-25 The kingdom of God on earth will be very different from any previous period since the earliest days of man on earth.

This will be a new world order which will offer all the following blessings: Happiness: People will experience lasting joy and gladness of heart (Isa. 65:18-19; 35:10). Children will play and enjoy lots of fun (Isa. 11:8; Zech. 8:5).

Good health: Life spans will dramatically increase. Children will not die in infancy, old people will live out their lives in health (Isa. 65:20; Zech. 8:4). Everyone will be free from disease and sickness (Isa. 33:24; 35:5-6).

Prosperity: People will have decent houses (Isa. 65:21).

There will be abundance in place of scarcity. Not only crops but cattle will prosper (Isa. 30:23-24; 35:7). Everything will become productive and flourishing (Isa. 35:1, 7; Jer. 31:12; Ezek.

34:26-27).

Security: There will be no extortion or unfair dealings. Everyone will enjoy the fruits of his or her labor (Isa. 65:22-23a; 35:8-9).

Happy family: God’s blessing will be on their works and families (Isa. 65:23b; Jer. 30:19-20).

No more needs or problems: God will grant all requests for needs (Isa. 65:24). The blessings of God’s Spirit will be upon all (Isa. 33:15; 44:3; Ezek. 36:27; 39:29).

Peaceful co-existence: Even wild animals will be no more ferocious. All dangers or fears will flee away and peace and harmony will prevail (Isa. 65:25; 11:6-8; Ezek. 34:25). There will also be peace among nations and righteousness in the administration of justice (Isa. 2:4; 11:3-5).

Worship: People from every nation will come to worship the LORD--the rightful God of all ethnic groups--in Jerusalem (Isa. 60:1-14).

Most of these prophecies refer to life during the millennial reign of Christ on earth (Rev. 20:1-6). But the millennium is only a foretaste of and an introduction to the eternal state when the new heavens and the new earth will be brought into existence (Rev. 21:12--22:5).

Okay, so now what?

Jesus told us to pray: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matt. 6:9-10).

Prayer: O God, whose will is to restore all things through Your Son Jesus Christ, our Lord: grant that You will live and rule through us, even now and always. Amen.

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

THE EDIT PAGE

C O M M E N T A R Y

George Lakey Waging Nonviolence

Ingredients for building courage

V

iewers of the splendid film “Selma” might wonder, “Would I have had the courage in that situation to join protests that might leave me severely injured or worse?”

I learned something useful about courage from a lion tamer I met while doing a speaking tour in the Netherlands, a perspective quite different from what I read in Gandhi’s writings.

Gandhi urged his people to become fearless, but I had doubts about my own ability to be able to give up my fear. The lion tamer invited a new way of thinking about it.

I met this unassuming Dutch man because he was my host in Utrecht. He was already retired from the circus, but when he discovered how interested I was in his career, he offered to show me scrapbooks from his work with tigers and lions.

One of the pages included a photo of him with his head between the jaws of an enormous lion. My breath stopped. I said, “What a brave man you are!”

“No, George,” he said with a smile.

“My lion tamer colleagues are courageous, but I’m peculiar. For some reason, ever since I was a boy I’ve been in love with cats. When I work with a lion, I don’t see something scary; I just see a big pussycat.”

“To be brave,” he went on, “it’s necessary to be scared. When you’re frightened and do something anyway – that’s courage.”

The Dutch lion tamer’s perspective helped me, because I couldn’t imagine any personal/spiritual discipline that could make me fearless. What’s real for me is to acknowledge my fears and still choose to put myself in harm’s way. I’ve learned I can develop that quality the lion tamer defines as courage, and like all things we want to strengthen, I recognize that some days will be better than others.

Building courage behind the scenes Context matters in building courage, and it’s significant that 1965’s Selma campaign built on the previous year’s Mississippi Summer. As a member of the training staff for the hundreds of mostly Northern college students who came to Oxford, Ohio, to prepare for their plunge into Mississippi, I watched the students become young lions ready to face Ku Klux Klan terror.

The students’ stated mission was to teach in Freedom Schools and organize African Americans to try to register to vote despite heavy repression. Their unstated mission was to draw the attention of the North to hardcore segregation and force the federal government against its will to support the right to vote. Northern students taking large risks would be attention-getters, and might even offer some measure of protection to the embattled field workers with the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, or SNCC, who had been in Mississippi since 1961. Even to take the bus to the training, most students would have endured strong opposition from family and friends fearful for their safety.

We organized the training into oneweek “batches” — about 400 the first week and a similar number the second week — on the campus of Miami University in Ohio. The training relied heavily on role-playing, reflection and in-

The Selma to Montgomery marchers arrive in Montgomery. At center are Martin Luther and Coretta Scott King, with Ralph Abernathy’s three children.

situation like that of pre-1970s Mississippi, but most of us do experience fear and might like to learn how to handle it. One tool is knowing that courage is contagious: If I act more boldly, there’s a good chance I’ll inspire others to handle their own fear and step up.

As profoundly social creatures, humans learn the art of courage in community. That may be one reason why the Southern civil rights movement set records for courage: much of the movement was based in churches, where community already flourished. For today’s movements — for climate justice, against incarceration, for school reform — it will pay to build community while we build our campaigns.

An often unacknowledged feature of the civil rights movement’s preference to wage campaigns over time rather than one-off protests is that a campaign gives time for people to inspire each other to greater boldness. I distinguish between courage and bravado. When people do bravado they deny their own fear, pretend there is little or no risk, and count on impulse and adrenalin to see them through. I’ve seen plenty of that in one-off protests, but in campaigns we’re more likely to see actual empowerment — “ordinary people” who don’t identify as activists getting in touch with their authentic conviction and courage.

Training workshops accelerate the building of courage, especially if trainers help participants become aware of the difference between the “comfort zone” and the “learning zone.” Training for Change facilitators admit they are doing less than their best when they allow people to stay in their comfort zones. Learning happens when participants, although objectively safe, are uncomfortable.

“Expansion” is not a bad metaphor for courage. When we expand our bodies by breathing deeply, and expand our empathy by talking with people Tools for overcoming fear Many of us will never face a terror different from ourselves, we empower tense discussions with SNCC workers, some almost as young as the students.

With the first week’s graduates already on their way to Mississippi we welcomed students for the second training. We’d barely gotten started before we were all called into the auditorium to face somber-looking project leaders on the stage. They told us that James Chaney, Michael Schwerner and Andrew Goodman were missing. The first was a SNCC worker; the other two were students who had been sitting in those very same auditorium seats the previous week. We feared the worst. The bodies were found later.

Even though that was 50 years ago, I vividly remember sitting in the auditorium thinking that by nightfall most of the students would have left for home.

No one could be ready for a tragedy that struck so soon.

I was wrong about the students.

They responded to our revised training format: multiple venues for emotional work, including one-on-ones, small groups singing under campus trees, larger groups listening to stories from the SNCC workers and others. The hours went by and community grew; almost no one seemed to leave. We gradually returned to workshop mode while gently making space for the expression of fear, grief, doubts about nonviolent discipline and anger.

By the end of the week most of the students went on to Mississippi. The excellent PBS documentary on Freedom Summer shows what happened there. (You can read about the campaign on the Global Nonviolent Action Database.) SNCC’s and the students’ courage — plus that of black Mississippians — put voting rights on the front burner and created the context for the 1965 breakthrough catalyzed by the Selma campaign.

ourselves and support the courage we need to face actual danger.

Fear is like a story that we make up. It has a beginning (now), a middle (the bold act), and an end (disaster).

F.E.A.R. stands for: Fantasized Expectations Appearing Real. Knowing this invites an alternative: Use your imagination to make up a different story!

There’s an additional method that works for me. I’ve put myself in physical danger multiple times (knives drawn, even a gun) and I have knowingly risked my life in social action. Although I have a good imagination and can fantasize dreadful consequences as well as anyone, the truth is that each time I’ve had no way of knowing what would be the real-life end of the story.

I’ve learned to decide based on probability instead of fantasy, then focus on being present with my team.

Re-framing to channel the energy The good news is that we’re not at the mercy either of our fantasies or even of the adrenal gland that pumps hormones as if there’s something really scary out there. I once asked a concert pianist for his feelings about a high stakes concert, and he said his usual condition before any concert was the rapid heartbeat called stage fright. “In conservatory they taught us how to handle that,” he told me. “Find the button that turns fear into excitement.”

The physiology of fear and excitement is the same. “When I reframe by turning that heartbeat into excitement, I play a better concert,” he explained.

“If for some reason the adrenalin isn’t pumping some night, I’m less alive and it’s a flatter performance.”

In social action we have a huge advantage over the solitary recitalist on a stage — we can have support from those who are quicker to push their excitement buttons and give us that look of reassurance. Look to the affinity group, take the risk, and experience the courage.

Pros and cons of AAP's rise Amulya Ganguli

T

IANS

he first fallout of the Aam Admi Party's (AAP) spectacular victory in Delhi will be a renewed focus on sleaze in public life. This was the issue which was the mainstay of Anna Hazare’s anti-corruption movement of which the present-day AAP was a part and which built up Arvind Kejriwal’s reputation as a crusader against bribery and underhand deals.

Since this image is behind his political success, he is bound to buttress it by carrying on the campaign. The Delhi chief minister must be aware that his successes in the winter of 2013-14 and again this year have been the result of the belief among the aam admi (common people) that only he in the political establishment has the courage of conviction to nail the guilty.

Moreover, this belief is based on the real-life experience of ordinary people of the decline in petty acts of corruption like the police collecting 'haftas' (bribes) from hawkers, traders and others in Delhi when Kejriwal was the the chief minister for 49 days. His castigation of the corporate bigwigs with a touch of insolence also impressed the people as it showed that the AAP is not dependent on covert funding by busi-

nessmen.

Not surprisingly, these positives have a negative side as well because the AAP’s intention of turning the existing system on its head, e.g. on the funding of parties, is fraught with the possibility of economic and political turmoil. There have been others, too, before him like the Mr Clean of Indian politics in the late 1980s, V.P. Singh, who advised the electorate not to vote for those of his party whose reputation was tainted.

The shortness of the Raja of Manda’s tenure as prime minister is a reminder and a warning to Kejriwal that he cannot be in too much of a hurry to mould the system to his own liking. A note of caution is all the more necessary because of his instinctive rebelliousness.

That he is not willing to let sleeping dogs lie is evident again from his raising the demand for full statehood for Delhi. It is also obvious that once he becomes the chief minister, he is going to return to his earlier theme of providing free water up to 20,000 litres and lowering the power tariff.

There is little doubt that all of this will earn him plaudits from what has come to be known as the underclass.

But whether such populism is eco-

nomically viable is something which the AAP has to figure out.

It may be necessary to recall the fate of the Congress in the wake of its indulgence in reckless populism - subsidized food, virtual doles for rural labourers who built nothing substantial, no examinations for students till Class VIII which has led to a precipitous drop in learning standards.

What that experiment showed was that the people were not interested in freebies so much as in a thriving economy which provided jobs. Considering that capitalism has won the battle against socialism with the buoyant private sector becoming the engine of growth at the expense of the moribund public sector, Kejriwal will be making a mistake if he targets the business community in matters of, say, electricity charges.

His pugnacity in this respect was evident not only from the cutting of power lines when he was still an agitator and a decision to cut the rates when in office without waiting for the audit of the power companies which he had ordered.

Outside the matter of user charges, the AAP’s impatience was seen from the directives given to the police by one of its ministers to act against the

WRITE-WING

suspected immoral activities in an area with a sizeable population of Africans, which scared the latter and upset the ambassadors of these countries.

To avoid such pitfalls, the new ruling party’s first objective will have to be to ascertain what can be achieved without overturning the apple cart.

It need not be afraid that its decision to hasten slowly will be interpreted as temporizing. The average voter is perceptive enough to understand the AAP’s circumspection.

It is also possible that once the AAP demonstrates that it intends to reform the system and; not uproot it, other parties will join it in its efforts, even if reluctantly. The business class may also respond by being more transparent and less profit-minded. It will be aided in this exercise by the fact that the corporate houses will not have to make under-the-table payments to politicians at least not as much as before.

From this aspect of cooperation with others in the political field, the AAP has a great opportunity to translate into reality the dream of reformers of transforming the system. The party’s asset of huge popularity cannot but compel the other parties and the corporate sector to accede to its game plan. One can only hope that the AAP will not throw it all away by its intemperance and self-righteousness.

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

23 February 2015

PERSPECTIVE NEWS ANALYSIS, FEATURE AND DISCOURSE

Indigenous pathway beyond capitalism In a world heading to multiple crises, we all need to stop destroying the people connected to the world’s richest biodiversities. Indigenous peoples show many pathways to think beyond capitalism.

throw-away consumables, shipped from the other side of the world, made from scarce resources.

For the sake of the planet we should push the counter globalised movement to “buy local”. If on top of this, we need to make things that last and embrace the notion of repair, re-use, recycle. In many senses this challenges capitalism’s vicious cycles. By reducing the need for resources, and extractive industries, it would therefore relieve pressure on scarce bio-diversities.

Steve Rushton

Is that really development?

On the wide-spreading arable planes of West Bengal, just beyond tarmac road, I discovered how the Santali indigenous community shared lands, crops, animals and other resources communally. This community had no signs of poverty, their water supply was fresh. For the time being, life seemed vibrant and healthy. The looming problem was local land disputes with the majority Bengali people, part of a broader trend of the Santali losing their ancestral land.

Within a few hours cycle ride, life seemed very different in an urban Bengali slum on the edge of Shantiniketan. Shunned by a caste system that was intensified by British imperialism, these people were noticeably impoverished, their quality of life worse. A dirty stream ran through their shacks, carrying effluent including raw sewage. They work almost entirely in hard physical roles, such as pulling manual richshaws and labouring. The indigenous Santali seemed on the verge of being swallowed up by the globalised world, in result likely to become worse off than the urban poor.

The process of becoming dependent on the global economy is called development.

Even if it means changing from a self-sustaining livelihood to labouring more hours in repetitive work. Even if it means becoming fully reliant on money only to be indebted.

But what is the point of access to the global markets, if you cannot afford things that were once communal, like fresh water?

With questions like this in mind, two years later, I visited Vietnam to research indigenous societies further.

The vicious circle of capitalism Exploring Vietnam’s Central Highlands revealed how indigenous nations were under development’s threat. I spent time with the Co Tu, Bahnar, Ede and M’nong nations.

Again, beyond the tarmac (this time on a hired well-worn scooter) I came across a man from the Co Tu nation mending and preparing nets in a fishing hut. It is probable the wide meandering river below had been fished before remembered history, possibly by his ancestors, although potentially by other nations.

Colonisation and war mean the 54 indigenous nations in Vietnam have been bombed, poisoned and driven off their lands.

Open cast gold mines had cut swathes through the jungle; dredging machines the size of buses sat on the banks. These rickety diesel-driven machines had conveyor belts sifting the river. Both mining processes turn the water brown, in the river and in tailings ponds, adding mercury and other heavy metals. These will poison both fish and fisherman.

Nearby, I met the gold-mining labourers: men from other indigenous nations from further afield. I found out that this was common, that when extractive industries destroy livelihoods it forces people to move elsewhere to find paid work.

I reflected later this is a vicious circle of

capitalist extraction, people forced to move from sustainable livelihoods to unsustainable paid labour. Another example was that it was illegal for locals to collect firewood with a mule – whereas massive trucks with labourers could remove fully grown trees.

Similarly, areas of once diverse jungle had been turned into mono-crop plantations, of pineapples, tea and other cash crops.

Jungle was also destroyed for large scale hydro-electric plants, cleared for roads and factories. Land that once was once a commons providing sustenance was enclosed and transformed for someone else’s profit, for development.

The “development” of indigenous peoples, an overview From European colonisation to today’s capitalist imperialism, indigenous societies have been widely destroyed. Their genocide and devastation has been largely masked within Western consciousness, in part as it often occurs in isolated places, but also justified with inherently racist narratives.

Early conquistadors and imperialists asserted the land Terra nullius (land belonging to no-one). They denied the indigenous people were human. Later this changed, those going there said they went there to baptise and civilise, even though this was often down the barrel of a gun. Today the message is these people are poor and need development.

Racism underscores all these missions, based on the dogma that colonisers are more advanced, more spiritual and more human.

In reality, indigenous lands have been violently stolen, their resources pillaged, forests have been cleared for farming, the keystone animals often hunted to extinction. Today this continues, exemplified when land is destroyed into sacrifice zones. This is particularly clear from the impact of mining, oil and other dirty extraction industries. Shell, BP and other oil companies turning the Nigerian Ogoni land into a toxic wasteland is one example. A “Rainforest Chernobyl” is what Chevron’s impact on parts of the Amazon has been dubbed. The existence of isolated uncontacted tribes, like near the PeruBrazil border, is still denied by politicians,

loggers and oil companies. They repeat the claim the land is Terra nullius.

After attack and displacement, indigenous peoples have routinely faced further ethnic cleansing, becoming victims of abusive state assimilation programs, for instance in Canada, the US and Australia.

Having lost their ways of life, they often suffer high levels of depression and suicide, substance and alcohol dependence, as well as poor health and poverty. One specific examples of these effects is the San of Botswana: they have been cleared off their land to make way for diamond mines, under the supposed guise of nature conservation.

What is certain though is that these extractive processes have led to massive amounts of economic development: for the capitalists who own the big oil companies and mining industries, their capital funnelled into the City of London and other dominant capitals.

The world needs to stop destroying indigenous peoples Indigenous peoples’ lands make up the majority of the world’s richest bio-diversities, although these are under constant threat. In 2000, academic and indigenous advocate Markus Colchester suggested that up to 85% of the world’s most bio-diverse protected forest eco-systems are on indigenous people’s lands. To temper climate change we need to protect these forests.

These swathes of bio-rich lands are shrinking rapidly, due to rampant demand for commodities from a globalised capitalist system, all of which is substantiated on the development narrative. The globalised world’s demand and pollution, in a finite world, is causing humanitarian crises. Climate change and water scarcity are two immense global threats.

Historically, Western diseases such as the flu and chicken pox have been the largest killer of indigenous people. The development mind-set might be considered another Western disorder: a psychological condition that threatens indigenous and globalised peoples alike.

A logical first step to overcome it is to leave those people who can live sustainably alone, as the first move to re-learn how to live within the physical boundaries of the

The Morung Express

Working to live, not living to work A Rhong is a communal village hut, as pictured above, common to the different indigenous nations’ lands I explored in the Vietnamese highlands. Rhongs were an early signpost that when I was driving, that I was leaving the majority Vietnamese peoples’ lands, the Kinh, and entering different indigenous nations.

But in large towns and areas near industry or trunk roads, there were little more signs of difference than with the Kinh. The indigenous people worked in paid labour, they spoke Vietnamese, there was inequality in their monetary wealth, they often worked in extractive industries, although not always, there was more likely to be environmental degradation. By and large, they were dependent on the globalised world.

Further into their lands, I noticed the Rhongs were more central in village and hamlet life. The people there more autonomous, working together in for instance small-scale farming and socialising in the Rhongs. The further out of town you went, the more time people seemed to have.

Development focuses on the idea of labour, working day in day out to earn money.

Beyond this globalised system, the indigenous nations I encountered had a different approach: one that worked when the work needed to be done, but not the arbitrary that the majority should toil 9-5, 5 days a week, 48 weeks per year.

This poses another question about the globalised world’s system: why is one of the seeming aims of development to achieve full employment? Instead we could just work as much as we need, not as much as we can.

earth, rather than the supposedly boundless realm of infinite economic growth. Not only do indigenous nations live in ways broadly sustainably, these diverse nations offer both untold knowledge of their environments and varied ways of organising societies beyond the confines of our obsession with capital accumulation.

It is crucial to state that indigenous nations are diverse. To romanticise or treat them as one group has its own racist undertones. But the indigenous ways of lives can be said to share one similarity: they do not Unappreciated knowledge revolve around economic growth. In diverLimited by time, language barriers and sity, they show multiple pathways to think- other factors, I only scratched the surface ing beyond development and capitalism. of four of fifty-four Vietnamese nations.

There were other things I saw not detailed A preserving nature here, like how knowledge was passed on Yok Don is now a nature reserve in Viet- communally in the Rhongs and how there nam. Made up of mixed deciduous and was far more inequality as the extractive ever-green trees, it has a wide variety of an- capitalist economy encroached into indigimals, some endangered, and flora, includ- enous lands. But thinking about how much ing medicinal plants. Fee-paying tourists I failed to recognise, I think this mimics how can enter the park with a guide. But the lo- the globalised world has only scratched the cal Ede nation cannot legally. A fast flowing surface of all the remaining indigenous nariver acts as natural barrier, guard houses tions’ knowledge. mark the few bridges into the park.

To illustrate the scale of how many difLike the Ede, indigenous peoples across ferent indigenous ways of live there are it, the world are excluded from their ancestral it is worth considering that it is estimated lands, all in the warped name of conserva- there are 370 million indigenous people in tion. The idea of people-free national parks the world, including 100 remote uncontactoriginated from Yellowstone, United States. ed tribes and many other small nations of To exclude people from their lands is people in the hundreds or thousands. not only breaching their rights, it is counEven when indigenous knowledge is utiter-intuitive. Everywhere eco-systems are lised by the globalised world, the roots of shaped by humans. Whether this is the mid- this ingenuity are rarely recognised. Examden piles, small clearings and other human ples include the medicinal properties of the impacts that enrich a rainforest; whether Neem tree, used by indigenous Indians for this is the nomadic herders whose animals centuries to control leprosy, and respiratory clear vast planes; or whether this is the mo- disorders. It now treats patients globally. no-crop intensive agriculture common in Permaculture is another indigenous scithe developed world. This means, when it ence used in the globalised world. Through comes to rich bio-diversities local people the principles of act with nature, using inshould be central in any efforts to conserve. digenous techniques and wisdom, it proReturning back to Yok Don, the craft vides the opportunity to interact with ecothe Ede cross the river illegally to hunt and systems in a more sustainable way: for gather ironically showed their preserving instance to plant certain trees that stop eronature. Tied up on the bank was a hollowed sion, or mitigate against toxic pollution. out canoe, a vehicle that can be passed It is clear that the globalised world could down through generations, made of local go far further in respecting and learning material. from the almost infinite breadth of indigeThe developed world frequently makes nous knowledge. We need to think beyond things in the opposite way. Development the boundaries of development and ecoencourages an ever-growing market of nomic growth.

POLL reSULTS

Are Naga people’s possessiveness over their history, selective memory of past glories and past traumas hampering peaceful co-existence?

Some of those who voted YES had this to say: • Yes. We Nagas have a great knack of memory lapses in trying to remember 1000 good deeds done to us BUT we are sharp brained in recalling even the tiniest slight against us.

• Yes! Look at the on-going situation in eastern Nagaland. One does not need to elaborate more, I believe.

• Yes, even the first church in Nagaland is being contested among two groups. What else remains if the church is not spared??

• Yes, the Nagas have become to obsessive and possessive over what they think is their history. Such subjective interpretation and selective memory has become detrimental to the future generations. This is one of the reasons why there is so much of tribalism and this is what is destroying the people and our society.

• Yes. Tuensang incident clearly displayed to the outside world our bull headed attitudes! What were the so called leaders of that area doing before the situation went out of hand?

• Yes, if we are looking for convenience. But does it heal or does it numb the disease?? Of course in the context of Nagas "Forgive and forget" and "God will judge" should be given priority given the fact that we still have some level of savagery in us.

Some of those who voted no had this to say: • No and I think this is an unfair question because the Nagaland situation is different and unique. Our problems are very complicated.

• Without holding on to our history what will happen to the Nagas.

• No. Our rich history is the basis of our identity and sovereignty and this will decide our future. Only when our history is respected can there be peaceful coexistence.

61%

feud, and such hatchet cannot be ever buried. liking.

Apropos to this, it is not selective memory but our • The word history itself is total being, who we are and what we are, that too vast. Still i'd say that its shapes our daily decisions. We have identity fanot about possessiveness natics, they come smeared in the dip of culture but more so the emergence and tradition. So, if our past and our experiences of contested claims and disare sensationalized from this point of view, it will torted versions. We shud be create unreasonable tensions with those we call possessive enough to write "others". Once "where we come from and who we about the truth of history are" emotions are triggered, we do not think twice from our (Naga) perspective even to kill. Hence, yes, it is all the mentioned and not simply 'celebrate' reasons why we cannot live in peace, and peacethe writings of the 'outsiders.' fully co-exist. On the other hand, development inOn the contrary peaceful codices can be a huge factor, but we can talk about existence is hampered beit in its relevance. cause it is based largely on political unity within the poli- • Perhaps an analogy I can think of is in the treatment of a cancer patient: it takes the work of an interdisciplintics of peace and unity. ary team, caring for and addressing the physiological, • It all starts with Identity and the preservation of self. emotional, spiritual and social aspects of one patient.

We have the disadvantage We explore past medical history and treatment, and OTHER of referring to unwritten histhe more history of the patient is documented the bettory where anyone can twist ter for options to explore. A patient while seeking treatand turn the little flow of narrations. it becomes a ment is vulnerable and hurting therefore open to healthreat for someone's 'self and identity'. therefore, ing...without judging treatment is provided. It is a very even within a village there are clans and family personal as well as a collective process of healing.

28%

11%

Some of those who voted OTHERS had this to say: YES no • The irony is that most Nagas don’t even know their true history. They only know the distorted history and are clinging on to them as if it was the Gospel truth.

• What a question! Too complex for a common public

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 23 February 2015

Government reaches out to opposition ahead of budget session New Delhi, February 22 (iaNS): The NDA government Sunday reached out to the opposition ahead of the budget session with Parliamentary Affairs Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu meeting Congress president Sonia Gandhi over its agenda that includes the contentious ordinance on land acquisition.

The government agenda for the session beginning Monday includes 44 items of financial, legislative and non-legislative business.

Naidu met Sonia Gandhi in the morning and later met leaders of opposition parties over lunch to seek their cooperation, but they all conveyed their concern on the land ordinance.

Though the government has not spoken of making changes in it so far, there now appears to be a rethink on the issue.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh, who Saturday met some farmers' representatives on the issue, was told by them that the government had brought the measure without proper consultations, said sources. The representatives also asked him to ensure that their views are taken into account before bringing the bill replacing the ordinance in parliament.

The Bharatiya Janata Party is apparently concerned about activist Anna Hazare's protest against

Running parliament smoothly a collective responsibility: Modi New Delhi, February 22 (iaNS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday said it was the collective responsibility of all parties to run parliament smoothly to help the common man meet his aspiration. Modi, who addressed an allparty meeting ahead of the budget session, assured opposition parties that the issues raised by them will be given due importance.

"It is the collective responsibility of all parties and leaders to enable the people fulfil their hopes and aspirations through proper functioning of both the houses of parliament," a parliamentary affairs ministry release quoted Modi as saying.

The prime minister also assured the leaders of all political parties that the issues and concerns raised by them will be discussed in an appropriate manner keeping in view their importance and priority. During the all-party meeting, Parliamentary Affairs Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu gave details of the 44-item agenda of the ordinance and any perception of the party being viewed as anti-farmer.

Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi is also expected to lead a protest on the issue.

Naidu told Sonia Gandhi that the land ordinance was brought after consultations with various states and stakeholders but she said that her party had its concerns.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was present at the all-party meeting, said it was the col-

the government for the budget session including financial, legislative and non-legislative business.

He said that out of the six ordinances to be converted into Acts of Parliament by April 5, 2015, there was a broad consensus on five of them relating to citizenship for overseas Indians, introduction of e-rickshaws, allocation of coal blocks and non-coal mines through open bidding, among others. On the Insurance ordinance, he said further to the suggestion of opposition parties, a Select Committee of Rajya Sabha has been set up and the same had submitted its report which amounts to a broad view of the house and there is no reason for two views in the matter.

"The government is willing to address concerns, if any," he said.

"Several state governments cutting across party lines have expressed difficulties in land acquisition for development projects under the Act of 2013 and sought modifications.

lective responsibility of all parties to run the house.

After the meeting, Naidu told reporters that it was "very successful". "The general view expressed was that parliament should function smoothly. Focus should be on financial matters since this is the budget session," he said.

Naidu said there was broad consensus on "fourfive ordinances" of the six that need to be replaced by bills in the first half of the session ending March 20 but the opposition parties

"Subsequently, the central government sought to facilitate land acquisition for notified purposes like infrastructure and affordable housing projects and so on in an easy manner without compromising on the remuneration to be paid to farmers and rehabilitation measures to be taken up for displaced persons.

"The government is ready to address apprehensions, if any in this regard," the statement quoted Naidu as saying.

"I would like to assure you all that the government is always willing to sit with opposition to resolve any differences on any issue. I don't think there is any issue that can't be resolved if approached with open mind. What is required is the spirit of mutual cooperation in the true spirit of parliamentary democracy. Let us collectively strive to build a conducive environment for effective functioning of parliament during the budget session," the minister added.

raised objections to the one on land acquisition and the government conveyed its willingness to address any issue.

Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad said the party will support the government on bills and ordinances which benefit the common man but not those which are "anti-people". The opposition parties are expected to raise a number of issues including attacks on churches, ceasefire violations by Pakistan and concerns of Tamil fish-

ermen.

Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan has also called a meeting of leaders of parties in the house to ensure its smooth functioning. The session will begin with President Pranab Mukherjee's address to members of both houses of parliament.

The financial business (11 items) include presentation of and discussion on general and railway budget, voting on demands for grants, supplementary demands for grants for 2014-

15 and excess demands, if any, for 2013-14. The rail budget will be presented Feb 26, Economic Survey Feb 27 and general budget Feb 28.

While 10 new bills are slated to be introduced, the agenda includes passing of three bills pending in the Lok Sabha and seven in the Rajya Sabha. Those pending in the Lok Sabha include the Constitution (122nd Amendment) bill relating to introduction of GST, and the Lokpal and Lok Ayukta bill.

Bills pending in the Rajya Sabha include four bills already passed by the Lok Sabha including the Companies Bill, and amendments to the Public Premises Eviction of Unauthorised Occupants Act, and the Regional Rural Banks Act. Other pending bills include a bill amending the Prevention of Corruption Act. The new bills pertain to the National Cooperative Development Corporation, the Warehousing Corporation, Andhra Pradesh's reorganisation, arbitration and conciliation, repeal of appropriation acts, registration of births and deaths, whistle-blowers protection, Indian Institutes of Management, National Academic Depository and Identification of Scheduled Castes. The second part of budget session will commence April 20 and conclude May 8.

The Morung Express

Live telecast of antiterror operations should be prohibited: MHA New Delhi, February 22 (PTi): Taking a step forward to ban live coverage of terror-related operations by TV channels, the home ministry has said that 'anti-terror operations' should be prohibited from telecasting.

Home ministry stated its position on the matter after the information and broadcasting ministry sought definition of terms 'anti-terror operations' and 'counter-terror actions'. The home ministry has conveyed that live coverage of anti-terror operations would compromise various aspects of security and jeopardies the life of security personnel and innocent people in a hostage situation.

The counter terrorism initiative include construction of roads, bridges, schools, health centres, improvement of telecommunication network in Maoisthit areas besides others. Earlier, the home ministry had asked the information and broadcasting ministry to amend the rules to stop live telecast of anti-terror operations.

Citing the unpleasant experience during 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks when news channels broadcast NSG operations live, the home ministry told the I&B ministry to amend the Programme Code under the cable television network rules so that no terror-related operation is telecast live in future.

In its letter, the home ministry had said such live coverage not only affects the secrecy and effectiveness of the operation but also puts the safety of security forces, common people and journalists in jeopardy.

After the 26/11 Mumbai attacks, the National Broadcaster Association put out a set of rules, including restriction on live reporting of terror situations, as part of a self-regulation exercise on the part of private broadcasters.

However, so far there is no official ban on live coverage of anti-terror operations. The home ministry has sought more changes to the 15-point Programme Code prescribed under the cable television network rules, 1994 for this purpose. The rules were amended in 2009 when private broadcasters were brought within the ambit of the cable television networks rules.

During the Mumbai terror attacks, television channels had broadcast live images, including the moves by security forces, para-dropping of commandos, which led the authorities to intervene and stop it.

Last month, information and broadcasting minister Arun Jaitley had in a lecture indicated that there could soon be norms for media coverage of terror-related operations by saying that the issue is under "serious and very advanced consideration" of the government.

Indian freed by Taliban after 8 months New Delhi, February 22 (iaNS): More than eight months after he was kidnapped, Indian national Father Alexis Premkumar Antonysamy has been released by the Taliban in Afghanistan. Prime Minister Narendra Modi Sunday expressed happiness at the release and spoke to Father Alexis.

The external affairs ministry said 47-year-old Alexis, who was kidnapped June 2, 2014 from Herat province in western Afghanistan by terrorist ele-

ments, has been released.

At the time of his abduction, Alexis was working with the Jesuit Refugee Service, an international NGO, doing work in the educational field in Afghanistan.

The matter of his release was pursued by India, "including at the highest levels by the prime minister", the ministry spokesperson said in a statement.

"Father Alexis Premkumar is now back in the safety of his homeland and arrangements are being made for him to rejoin his

family soon," he said. Prime Minister Modi tweeted: "Delighted at securing the release of Indian Jesuit priest Father Alexis Prem Kumar from captivity in Afghanistan. Have spoken to Father Alexis Prem Kumar.

Informed happy family of Father Alexis Prem Kumar of his safe return after 8 months in captivity."

In June 2014, then Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J. Jayalalithaa had written to Modi seeking his intervention in securing the release of Alexis, who hails

from the state. Modi had assured that the "government will spare no effort" to ensure the early release of the priest.

Alexis was Afghanistan director of the Jesuit Refugee Services (JRS), an educational charity, and was living in the war-torn country for over three years. His abduction took place 10 days after an attack on the Indian consulate in Herat by four heavily armed gunmen carrying rocket-propelled grenades and machine guns.

Environmental loss in Sundarbans worth Rs 1290 Crores KolKaTa, February 22 (PTi): Environmental damage in the climate change-hit islands of Sundarbans is costing India Rs 1,290 crore each year, estimates a latest World Bank report. The cost of environmental damage associated with ecosystem degradation and biodiversity loss is about Rs 670 crore annually, while the cost of health effects due to poor environment is estimated at Rs 620 crore, it says.

The total figure of Rs 1,290 crore is about ten per cent of Sundarbans GDP in 2009. The report 'Building Resilience for Sustainable Development of the Sundarbans' is prepared by the World Bank in collaboration with the West Bengal government.

"The losses stem from a combination of factors associated with unsustainable and inefficient economic activities ? for example, mangrove destruction, impact of cyclones, reduced

agricultural yields and unsustainable fisheries as well as destruction of ecosystem services," the report says.

Sundarbans is an archipelago of 54 islands and is home to about 44 lakh people. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it is hit hard by an increase in floods, storms, salinity and erosion caused by rising sea-levels and global warming.

Damage costs from cyclones were found to be the highest in the research at Rs 2.9 billion and include damages to houses, agriculture, human injuries and fatalities.

In its report, the World Bank has also taken into account the cost of shrimp losses, carbon sequestration losses associated with degradation of mangrove forest, soil salinity in terms of impact on rice yields, loss of biodiversity and agricultural land due to sea level rise.

Villagers in Sundarbans also suf-

fer from poor health outcomes and increased vulnerability as a result of environmental degradation in the form of adverse natural events, such as cyclones and storms and increases in soil salinity, it says.

The main environmental health risks in the Sundarbans are inadequate water supply, sanitation and hygiene, and household air pollution from use of solid cooking fuels.

These risk factors contribute considerably to mortality and morbidity, particularly among women and children. The report estimates nearly 80 per cent of the health cost is from health effects among children under five years.

They have calculated that poor environmental conditions are responsible for 3,800 premature deaths and 1.9 million cases of illness every year, mainly among young children and adult women.

Kashmiri women chat as they cover their faces with masks as a precaution against H1N1 flu in Srinagar on Sunday, February 22. According to Indian health authorities, in northern and western India, a variant of the H1N1 pandemic influenza has claimed more than 700 lives in 10 weeks. Local news reports said five people have died in the Kashmir valley. (AP Photo)

Nitish returns as Bihar CM, to meet PM over development PaTNa, February 22 (iaNS): Nitish Kumar Sunday returned as the chief minister of Bihar, nine months after he resigned following his party JD-U's massive defeat in the 2014 general elections. Party leaders said he will meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi to seek more funds to speed up development work in the state.

The 66-year-old Janata Dal-United leader was administered the oath

of office as the 24th chief minister of Bihar by Governor Keshri Nath Tripathi.

Along with Nitish Kumar, 22 ministers also took oath at a simple ceremony at Raj Bhavan here. Most of the ministers were in his earlier cabinet and are considered loyal and trusted.

Nitish Kumar had resigned as chief minister last year after the JD-U's rout in the Lok Sabha polls.

Jitan Ram Manjhi, who was made chief minister in May

2014, resigned Feb 20 after a political row in the state.

JD-U leaders said Nitish Kumar will seek a meeting with Modi in the first week of March to request more funds for the state's economic development.

"Governor K.N. Tripathi, who administered oath to Nitish Kumar and his ministers, directed the new government to seek a confidence vote in the assembly in March," officials said. The party's national

general secretary K.C. Tyagi said Nitish Kumar will meet Modi for the sake of Bihar's development.

"Nitish Kumar will certainly meet Modi soon," Tyagi told media persons ahead of the oath-taking ceremony. JD-U state president Vashisht Narain Singh told IANS: "There is a need for more cooperation from the central government for the state's development. Nitish Kumar will meet Modi soon."

Rote no more: Hands-on approaches infuse freshness to education

New Delhi, February 22 (iaNS): Rote learning techniques have long-plagued the Indian education system, where even "science is taught like history".

Infusing freshness into a system where earning maximum grades takes priority over understanding, experts have come up with solutions like teaching mathematics through video games - allowing students to go beyond the obvious.

"In our classrooms, science is taught like history - students are 'told' about the concepts but don't get to explore, experience or challenge! Our labs encourage children to find and

verify what is written in the book rather than explore and challenge concepts," Rakesh Kumar, founder, Experifun, told IANS. Started in 2012, Experifun designs and develops curriculum-based affordable, innovative and exploratory products for exploring in-classroom science concepts.

They allow students and teachers conduct innovative science experiments and activities. The offering contains various kits covering the entire gamut of science for curricula like Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education (ICSE), Cambridge, International

Baccalaureates and state boards.

Agreed Priyadeep Sinha, founder, Gyan Lab - a start-up working in the K-12 (Kg-Class 12) education space striving for fun in learning - said education today needs to be more "application-based".

"What we deeply need to realize and understand is that a 90 percent in exams should not be the ultimate goal of learning since, in the real world, if you cannot apply what you have learnt, you lose out to others who may not have scored better but can apply knowledge better. And to bring about a change in how education happens in this country, we need to realize that a child,

not a teacher, should be at the centre of the learning process in a classroom," Sinha told IANS. According to the India Labour Report 2007 by TeamLease Services staffing company, 90 percent of employment opportunities require vocational skills but 90 percent of our colleges and schools output has bookish knowledge and that 57 percent of India's youth suffer from some degree of unemployability.

The report also said that "the present education system focuses on knowledge and rote-based learning, rather than on developing broad abilities of application. While there have been numerous govern-

ment committees set up that have recommended changes in the course content and examination pattern, little has been done to transform the system."

"There should be a 'hands on' approach that is geared more towards problem solving rather than on 'memorizing without understanding'," it said.

Gyan Lab and Experifun are not the only initiatives that intend to engage students with education, encouraging them to apply their understanding to better use.

There are others like Nayi Disha, which builds educational-based computer games for preschool children and ThinkLABS,

which instills a scientific temper in school students through innovative programmes and prepares college students for careers in embedded systems and robotics.

"We are using Experifun science kits in our school for past one year.

Interest levels and conceptual understanding of students in science subject have improved as they can relate the concepts in the book with application in the real," Manish Kumar, founder and country director, Seed Schools, Hyderabad, told IANS. So, what do Nayi Disha games teach?

"All our games are centred around baby

alien Kaju, and the world around him. Each game starts with a visually rich story, where Kaju comes across something peculiar, gets into trouble, or has to help somebody out. As humans, we forget theories and formulas, but stories are something we latch on to. Starting out with a story really builds a bridge between the child and the concepts she is learning," Nayi Disha Studios cofounder Kartik Aneja told IANS. He added that once the story is played, children have to help Kaju achieve a particular set of tasks through physical movements.

"No keyboard or mouse

is used by the children.

They jump, clap, flap, jiggle and wiggle to solve learning problems. Our games cover topics in math, languages and general knowledge (which includes science)," he said.

Shivangi Gaur, a parent, said that children prefer activities that keep them engaged while also help them learn new concepts.

"Such initiatives are needed as they keep students engaged and help them understand concepts better. A lot of times, I rely on platforms like YouTube to add extra audio-visual touch while teaching my child. And to my surprise, he then understands it better," Gaur said.

InternatIonal

the Morung express

Monday 23 February 2015

Dimapur

Saudi effort to promote open society abroad in tatters VIENNA, FEBRUARY 22 (AP): Austria was enthusiastic when Saudi Arabia said it was ready to bankroll a center for religious and cultural understanding in Vienna — but two years after its launch, the desert kingdom’s foray into promoting a more open society abroad while continuing to repress rights at home is in tatters.

Its vice president, a former Austrian justice minister, has quit over comments interpreted as downplaying Saudi beheadings. And the center’s silence over the flogging of a Saudi blogger for criticizing Islam has drawn weekly street protests and condemnation from Austria’s chancellor — who said the nation “will not tolerate” the center’s refusal to repudiate Saudi human rights violations.

“I believe that the center needs to done away with,” said demonstrator Norbert Brandl outside the turn of the century downtown palace housing KAICIID — the King Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz International Center for Interreligious and Intercultural Dialogue. “Either that or it has to speak up against these unbelievable incidents.”

But the center also has backers.

They include prominent Christian and Jewish figures who sit on its board with Muslim, Hindu and Buddhist representatives, and experts who view KAICIID as a cautious attempt at outreach by the late king who hoped that reforms — however modest — initiated by the center would trickle down into Saudi society.

Islam specialist Ruediger Lohlker says that the center hasn’t existed nearly long enough for that goal to bear fruit, and suggests

those criticizing it be patient. Opposition by the clergy and other powerful conservative Saudi factions means that domestically, “the process of reform tends to be plodding,” he said.

In any case, supporters argue that KAICIID’s mandate is not to speak out against individual human rights abuses but to facilitate dialogue between religions.

And they note that Austria — along with co-backer Spain and The Vatican as an observer — signed on fully aware of Saudi Arabia’s record of flogging, beheading and mutilating those convicted of a range of crimes.

At best, they say, expectations that the center now will condemn Saudi blogger Raif Badawi’s sentence of 50 lashes each over 20 weeks is naive — and at worst a stunt by Chancellor Werner Faymann’s Socialist party to gain voter support by exploiting public outrage over the sentence.

At Faymann’s urging, the foreign ministry commissioned a report that demands the center’s “withdrawal from Vienna” unless it starts speaking out against “human rights violations with a religious component.”

The chancellor says that if KAICIID stays quiet over Badawi, it “is not worthy of being called a dialogue center — it is a silence center.”

The center’s Jewish board member calls such comments perverse.

“In many respects, the government is now questioning its own decision,” says Chief Rabbi David Rosen, noting that Austria agreed to host KAICIID “knowing that Saudi Arabia is not the embodiment of human rights.”

The project was born of Abdullah’s 2007 audience with Pope Benedict XVI to discuss interreligious and intercultural dialogue.

U.N. Secretary General BanKi-moon attended the center’s splashy opening five years later, along with the Saudi, Austrian and Spanish foreign ministers and more than 650 other guests. The three spoke only vaguely about the need to overcome religious differences and expressed hope that KAICIID would achieve that goal.

But Roman Catholic Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran foreshadowed the present dispute, urging the center to work for religious freedom everywhere, including in countries “where such freedoms are not guaranteed.” The opposition Greens, moderate Muslim organizations and human-rights groups were opposed from the outset, with some fearing that the center was a front for Saudi attempts to spread the conservative Wahhabi version of Islam in Europe.

Concerns morphed into outrage even before the Badawi case over comments by KAICIID deputy director Claudia Bandion-Ortner.

The former Austrian justice minister stepped down late last year after dismissing as “nonsense” suggestions that beheadings were commonplace in Saudi Arabia, and describing as “comfortable” the black, all-encompassing abaya that women there are forced to wear.

Faymann has critics even within his ruling coalition. The centrist People’s Party who govern with his Socialists says the chancellor is hurting Austria with his demands.

And the government report is in some ways a contradictory

document. While issuing its ultimatum, the report — drawn up by the Foreign Ministry which is under People’s Party control — also notes that the human rights situation in Saudi Arabia “was known at the time of KAICIID’s opening and was no different than today.”

It says the Saudis already have warned that further pressure might result in serious diplomatic and economic fallout, including OPEC pulling up stakes and ending its 50year presence in Vienna.

Vatican spokesman the Rev. Federico Lombardi said he hoped the center “can continue to do its work promoting dialogue,” and noted that the center and its international status was recognized by the U.N. - a hint that any Austrian move to force it out would call into question Vienna’s commitment to hosting other U.N.-recognized organizations.

Spanish government officials had no comment while the Saudi Embassy in Vienna directed all queries to the center, also noting its international status. Lohlker, the Islam specialist, said the Saudis cannot possibly meet the terms of Faymann’s ultimatum. For Rosen, the dispute is actually hurting chances of domestic Saudi reform.

The chief rabbi said a cardinal at the audience between the late Saudi king and the pope told him that Abdullah specifically expressed hope that KAICIIDs work in Vienna would help his agenda of cautious domestic transformation.

The ruling family “saw this as a remarkable opportunity, saying ‘change will come to Saudi Arabia if we are seen to engage other religious groups with mutual respect,’” he said.

In this picture taken Friday, February 6, members of the Austrian Greens attend a protest against the punishment for Saudi blogger Raif Badawi in front of the KAICIID in Vienna, Austria. Austria was enthusiastic when Saudi Arabia said it was ready to bankroll a center for religious and cultural understanding in Vienna _ but two years later the desert kingdom’s foray into promoting a more open society abroad while continuing to repress rights at home is in tatters. (AP Photo)

Ukraine: blast hits march in Kharkiv, killing two KIEV, FEBRUARY 22 (AP): Two people were killed and about eight others injured in a bomb explosion at a march Sunday in Ukraine’s secondlargest city that was commemorating the first anniversary of the ouster of president Viktor Yanukovych, the country’s interior ministry said.

The Interior Ministry said the blast was due to an “unknown explosive device” and was being considered a terrorist act.

The violence comes as Ukraine continues to be riven by tension and bloodshed stemming from Yanukovych’s fall a year ago. The Ukrainian parliament voted Feb. 22, 2014 to remove the Russiafriendly president, following months of increasingly

violent protests in the capital, Kiev.

The Crimean peninsula, where residents largely regarded his downfall as a coup, was annexed by Russia a month later.

Then armed rebels opposed to the new authorities in Kiev took over large parts of two regions bordering Russia, setting off a war that has killed more than 5,600 people.

A peace plan envisioning a cease-fire and pullback of heavy weapons was signed 10 days ago, but cease-fire violations continue.

Ukraine plans to begin pulling back heavy weaponry from the front lines on Sunday in accordance with the peace plan, a military spokesman said. Ukrainian military

spokesman Col. Andriy Lysenko told a briefing that the withdrawal was to begin, but did not give further details.

Rebel spokesman Eduard Basurin said the pullback from both sides is to take place between Sunday and March 7, but he did not specify whether rebels had made any moves yet. There was no immediate confirmation that the withdrawal had begun.

Both sides are to pull back their big guns and rockets from 25 to 70 kilometers (15 to 43 miles) away from the conflict line -- depending on the weapons’ size -- creating a buffer zone of between 50 and 140 kilometers (31-87 miles).

The buffer zone was a main element of a peace agreement worked out in

marathon negotiations 10 days ago in Minsk, Belarus. It also calls for a full exchange of war captives. Late Saturday, 139 Ukrainian soldiers and 52 rebels were exchanged; it remains unclear how many prisoners in total are on each side and when other swaps might take place.

The cease-fire that was the first element of the Minsk plan was called into effect last Sunday.

Ukraine said Russiabacked separatists violated the cease-fire a dozen times during the night with artillery and rocket attacks and an attempt to storm a Ukrainian encampment. Lysenko said one serviceman was killed and three wounded over the past day.

Explosions were heard in the main rebel-held city Donetsk around dawn on Sunday and a rebel website says several buildings in the city were damaged by artillery.

Despite the reported violations, the level of firing appeared to be far lower than a week ago when a cease-fire was called.

Among the attacks reported by the Ukrainian military was an attempt to storm positions in the village of Shyrokyne near the port city of Mariupol. That city remains of strategic concern to Ukraine because rebel seizure of it could help establish a land corridor between mainland Russia and the Russia-annexed Crimean peninsula.

Turkish military enters Syria to evacuate troops

The Turkish army’s armored vehicles return from Syria, near Suruc, Turkey, on Sunday, February 22. Turkey launched an overnight military operation into neighboring Syria to evacuate troops guarding an Ottoman tomb and to move the crypt to a new location, Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said Sunday. Davutoglu said nearly 600 troops and 100 tanks and armored personnel carriers were involved in the operation. One group crossed into Syrian territory to reach the tomb, just over the border near the town of Kobani, while a second group took control of an area near the Turkish border where authorities plan to move the tomb. (AP Photo)

ANKARA, FEBRUARY 22 (AP): Turkish soldiers launched an overnight raid into neighboring Syria, evacuating dozens of besieged troops guarding an Ottoman tomb and moving the crypt Sunday back to Turkey after ceremonially planting the country’s crescent-and-star flag.

In a one-line report on the incident, Syria’s state news agency denounced what it called a “blatant aggression” by Turkey.

The mission, saving Turkish soldiers reportedly stuck for months at the tomb of the grandfather of the

founder of the Ottoman Empire, saw hundreds of troops backed by tanks cross the border near the border town of Kobani once besieged by the Islamic State group.

Turkey was widely criticized for not intervening for months in the Kobani battle, which finally saw Kurdish fighters backed by U.S.-led airstrikes push out the extremists.

“We had given the Turkish armed forces a directive to protect our spiritual values and the safety of our armed forces personnel,” Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu said in televised re-

marks.

Nearly 600 Turkish soldiers on some 100 tanks and armored personnel carriers crossed into Syria on Saturday night, as drones and airplanes flew reconnaissance missions overhead, Davutoglu said Sunday.

One group traveled to the tomb, some 35 kilometers (22 miles) from Turkey on the banks of the Euphrates River in Syria’s embattled Aleppo province, Davutoglu said. Another group seized an area only 200 meters (yards) from the Turkish border in Syria’s Ashma region, according to a statement from President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s office.

One soldier was killed in an “accident” during the operation, Turkey’s military said, without elaborating.

Turkish media later showed nationalistic images of three Turkish soldiers raising the country’s flag at the new site.

“Before the Turkish flag was lowered at (the tomb), the Turkish flag started to be waved at another location in Syria,” Davutoglu said. He said troops destroyed the complex once housing the tomb.

The U.S.-led coalition forces were informed of the Turkish operation after its launch to prevent any casualties, Davutoglu said. U.S. officials offered no immediate comment.

There had been rumors for months that the soldiers stationed at the tomb had been besieged by militants from the Islamic State group, which hold a third of Syria and neighboring Iraq in their self-declared caliphate. Some 40 Turkish soldiers once guarded the tomb, making them a target for the Islamic State group and other militants in Syria’s long-running civil war, though the overnight operation apparently saw no fighting.

The tomb belonged to Suleyman Shah, the grandfather of Osman I,

9

founder of the Ottoman Empire. The site along the Euphrates River is revered by Turkey, a strongly nationalist country whose rights there stem from a 1921 treaty with France, then the colonial power in Syria. The Ottoman Empire collapsed in the early 20th century after World War I. In the 1970s, Turkey moved the mausoleum to its last location because the old site at a castle further south in Syria was to be inundated by the waters of a new dam.

Shah, a Turkic leader, is believed to have drowned in the Euphrates in the 13th century. His followers headed north into what is today Turkey, where they launched the Ottoman Empire.

Some historians question official accounts about the Shah’s tomb, saying they might have been retrospectively concocted to enrich an imperial identity for Turks.

Turkey has wanted Syrian President Bashar Assad overthrown and has backed some rebels fighting against him. Earlier this week, Turkey signed an agreement with the U.S. to train and arm Syrian rebels fighting the Islamic State group.

With its 1,200-kilometer (750mile) border with Syria, Turkey could be a major player in the fight against the Islamic State group. But negotiations with the U.S. over what to do about the Islamic militants have been fraught with disagreement — with Turkey insisting that the coalition needs to also target the Assad government.

Turkey also has had concerns over some of the Kurdish fighters battling the Islamic State group in Kobani. It views the Kurds fighting in Syria as an extension of the Kurdistan Worker’s Party, which has waged a 30-year insurgency against the Turkish government and is designated as a terrorist group by the U.S. and NATO.

Bangladesh ferry with 100 passengers sinks DHAKA, FEBRUARY 22 (AP): A river ferry carrying about 100 passengers capsized in central Bangladesh on Sunday after being hit by a cargo vessel, killing at least 31 people, officials said. A rescue operation was underway, but it was not clear how many people were missing.

The ferry was struck by the cargo vessel at the Daulatdia-Paturia crossing on the Padma River on Sunday afternoon, said fire department official Shahzadi Begum.

Rescue teams were deployed and passing boats were helping in the operation, he said.

The site is 40 kilometers (25 miles) northwest of Dhaka, Bangladesh’s capital. Ferry accidents are common in Bangladesh, an impoverished South Asian nation that is crisscrossed by more than 130 rivers.

The ferry was submerged at a depth of up to 6 meters (20 feet), said Inspector Zihad Mia, who is overseeing the rescue operation.

By Sunday evening, at least 31 bodies had been recovered, Mia said. The local Somoy television station said at least 38 bodies had been recovered.

He said officials had yet to determine how many passengers were missing.

Ferries in Bangladesh usually do not maintain formal passenger lists.

“We don’t have a clear picture about how many were exactly in the ferry when it sank,” Mia said. “But I think many have survived.”

A passenger who survived said many people got trapped inside when the ferry sank. “The passengers who were on the deck have survived, but many who were inside got trapped,” Hafizur Rahman Sheikh was quoted as saying by the Prothom Alo newspaper.

Sheikh said the cargo vessel hit the middle of the ferry.

The Padma is one of the largest rivers in Bangladesh, where overcrowding and poor safety standards are often blamed for ferry disasters.

Last August, a ferry with a capacity of 85 passengers was found to be carrying more than 200 when it capsized on the Padma near Dhaka, leaving more than 100 people dead or missing. The ferry’s owner was arrested after weeks in hiding on charges of culpable homicide, unauthorized operation and overloading.

At least five people were killed earlier this month when a ferry sank in southern Bangladesh.

Kerry and Iran’s Zarif to try narrow gaps in nuclear talks GENEVA, FEBRUARY 22 (REUTERS): U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry and his Iranian counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif will try to narrow gaps in another round of nuclear talks in Geneva on Sunday as they press to meet a March 31 deadline for a political framework agreement.

The talks will be joined for the first time by U.S. Secretary of Energy Ernest Moniz, who agreed to attend after Iran’s nuclear chief Ali Akbar Salehi said he would take part.

A close aide and the brother of Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, Hossein Fereydoon, will also be part of the meetings, Iranian media reported.

Kerry was due to arrive in Geneva in the early afternoon, then immediately meet with the U.S. delegation, which has been in Geneva since Friday. After that he planned to meet Zarif and the Iranian delegation.

The Secretary fo State said on Saturday the presence of Moniz reflected the highly technical nature of the current talks and in no way meant “that something is about to be decided.”

However, Kerry said the sides were working with urgency to meet the March 31 target for a political agreement, which would give impetus for further talks.

“There is still a distance to trav-

el,” Kerry said in London where he met British Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond.

The negotiations between Iran and “P5+1” powers - the United States, Britain, France, Germany, Russia and China - have reached a sensitive stage with gaps remaining, mainly over Iranian uranium enrichment and the pace of removing sanctions.

Kerry said U.S. President Barack Obama was not inclined to extend the talks again. The parties already missed a November 2014 target date.

Obama believed it was “imperative to be able to come to a fundamental political outline and agreement within the time space that we have left,” Kerry said.

“If that can’t be done, it would be an indication that fundamental choices are not being made that are essential to doing that,” Kerry added, also emphasizing that Obama was prepared to halt the talks if he thought they were not being productive.

A recent U.N. report said that Iran had refrained from expanding tests of more efficient models of a machine used to refine uranium under a nuclear agreement with the six world powers. Development of advanced centrifuges is feared to lead to material potentially suitable for manufacture of nuclear bombs.

10

Dimapur

SPORTS

Monday 23 February 2015

The Morung Express

Malaga ends Barcelona's winning streak

BARCELONA, FEBRUARY 22 (AP): Malaga stunned Barcelona with a 1-0 victory at Camp Nou on Saturday to end the host's 11-game winning streak and prevent it from taking an overnight lead in the Spanish league.

Malaga struck early and hung on after Juanmi Jimenez took advantage of a shared defensive error by Dani Alves and goalkeeper Claudio Bravo in the seventh minute.

Coach Javi Gracia's team held Barcelona to 0-0 in their first meeting this season, and the visitors again did well to contain a team which included Lionel Messi, Neymar, and Luis Suarez, en route to their first win at Barcelona since the 1999-2000 season.

Real Madrid visits Elche on Sunday, looking to extend its one-point advantage at the top.

"From the start we could see it was going to be a tough game," Barcelona coach Luis Enrique said. "In the first half we were more or less ordered and balanced, but in the second half we lost control. Add to that that we weren't having our best day on an individual level.

The result is a blow to us."

Atletico Madrid and Valen-

cia took advantage of Barcelona's slip with wins that tightened the race among the top four.

Antoine Griezmann scored his team-leading 13th and 14th league goals to lead Atletico to an easy 3-0 home victory over Almeria, lifting the defending champions to within three points of Barcelona. Valencia won 2-1 at bottom side Cordoba to stay in fourth, another three points behind Atletico.

"We think about our daily fight with teams that get more attention," Atletico manager Diego Simeone said about chasing Madrid and Barcelona. "Valencia, Sevilla and ourselves, we have an enormous amount of points. That makes a league more competitive that we understand has Madrid and Barcelona as favorites."

Celta Vigo also won 2-0 at Deportivo La Coruna in a regional Galician derby to rise into eighth place. Barcelona couldn't dwell on Malaga for long, as it will be at Manchester City on Tuesday in the opening leg of their Champions League last-16 tie. Atletico visits Bayer Leverkusen a day later.

Malaga's plan of packing men in its area to stifle Barcelona's attack, and looking to

hit on the break worked so well that goalkeeper Carlos Kameni's most notable moment was actually setting up Malaga's goal. Messi and Neymar combined for 24 goals during Barcelona's winning run, but neither were able to break down Malaga's disciplined defense.

Messi was swarmed by defenders every time he tried to dribble through the middle, while his crosses from the right in search of Neymar were cleared.

Neymar, as well as Suarez, were apparently devoid of ideas.

Kameni started the decisive counterattack with a long clearance that led to Jimenez racing forward to score. Both Barcelona's Dani Alves and Bravo played their part in the goal; the defender's short back pass together with Bravo's hesitation to leave his area to meet the pass allowed Jimenez to capitalize.

The home fans responded with a round of applause to try and lift Barcelona with 83 minutes to turn the result around. But Malaga held firm, anchored by center back Weligton, who was well placed to clear a goal-bound strike by Rafina in the 10th.

Malaga, meanwhile, remained dangerous when it surged forward, and Bravo had

Spurs salvage late draw against West HAM

Barcelona's Gerard Pique fights for the ball during a Spanish La Liga soccer match against Malaga at the Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona, Spain, Saturday, February 21. (AP Photo)

to twice save shots from Ricardo Horta before halftime.

Barcelona's frustrations only grew in the second half when it was limited to substitute Pedro Rodriguez hitting the side netting as its best opportunity to level with six to play, until Suarez forced Kameni into action in stoppage time.

LONDON, FEBRUARY 22 (AGENCIES): Only Alex Song knew what he was thinking about and, as he lay on his back, staring up at the heavens from his own penalty area, the West Ham United midfielder had a moment to ask himself the question.

Harry Kane did not look to be in an overly threatening position because Aaron Cresswell, the West Ham full-back, was in a covering position but Song felt the red mist descend. He pushed Kane, the contact was clear and the referee, Jon Moss, was compelled to give the penalty.

Kane saw Adrián read his intentions from the spot and produce a dramatic save but the rebound fell kindly to him and the Tottenham striker gobbled up his 24th goal of the season. It was the last kick of a pulsating derby and if Kane and everybody connected to Tottenham felt relief, there was only sickness for West Ham, who had been 2-0 up and coasting with only nine minutes to go.

But for so long, it appeared that he and the travelling fans were primed to celebrate another victory at this stadium – to go with the

two from last season, in the Premier League and Capital One Cup. They had taken charge upon Cheikhou Kouyaté’s first-half header and when Diafra Sakho got the second on 62 minutes.

West Ham hate Tottenham; Tottenham are not too fond of West Ham and there was an intensity about this derby, which the midday start did nothing to dilute. When Kyle Walker and Cresswell crashed into a shuddering 50-50 challenge in the early going, it seemed to catch the mood.

Dembélé endured something of a personal nightmare and he felt the crowd on his back as he repeatedly squandered the ball. It was no surprise that he did not reappear for the secondhalf. He was replaced by Christian Eriksen, who had been the surprise omission from the starting XI. Tottenham had begun as the brighter of the teams and they went close to taking the lead. Nabil Bentaleb worked Adrián from distance while Kane charged onto Rose’s long ball, as James Tomkins hesitated, and guided a shot against the outside of the post.

Kouyaté’s goal settled West Ham while it unnerved Tot-

tenham.

Sakho had nipped past Dier to squeeze in a closerange header, which Lloris blocked while Enner Valencia had an effort snuffed out by Lloris on 29 minutes and Mark Noble saw Walker block his volley. Tottenham could point to the moment on 26 minutes when Rose raced onto Kane’s chipped pass, got there before Adrián and headed narrowly over the crossbar but the home team had to be better in the second-half.

There had been no hint of the grandstand finish but Tottenham fired it with a goal out of nothing.

Adrián’s clearing punch following a short Tottenham corner did not have enough on it and when Rose shot down into the ground, he watched the ball rear up and loop into the corner of the net.

At a stroke, the stadium was transformed and Tottenham pressed. The substitute, Roberto Soldado, thought that he had found the equaliser on 83 minutes only for Adrián to save at full stretch but, when it looked as if time had run out and some Tottenham fans had started to leave, Song suffered his mad moment.

for Griezmann to beat 'keeper Julian Cuesta a second time. Atletico lost defender Siqueira to a second booking in injury time.

Valencia did get the late goal it needed when Pablo Piatti scored with nine minutes left to see off a pesky Cordoba side which had leveled through Nabil Ghilas' spot kick in the 74th.

Man City routs Newcastle, Chelsea held by Burnley

LONDON, FEBRUARY 22 (AP): Manchester City took full advantage of leader Chelsea dropping points by registering the biggest win of its English Premier League title defense, while Manchester United dropped to fourth by losing at Swansea.

After 10-man Chelsea was contentiously held to 1-1 by Burnley, City trimmed the gap on the leader to five points by sweeping aside Newcastle 5-0.

Sergio Aguero put City in front inside two minutes with a penalty, then Samir Nasri and Edin Dzeko scored in the next 20 minutes. David Silva completed the rout with Tottenham Hotspur's Eric Dier, left, vies for the ball with West Ham United's Diafra Sakho, quick-fire goals at the start of the right, during an English Premier League soccer match at the White Hart Lane ground in London, Sunday, Feb. 22, 2015. The match ended 2-2 draw. (AP Photo)

Atletico hit home three times in the first half hour to dispense with Almeria.

Mario Mandzukic got his 12th league goal when he converted a penalty kick after Mauro Dos Santos fouled Diego Godin.

Mandzukic then set up Griezmann to score on the break, and he headed the ball down

second half as City cut Chelsea's goal advantage to three in the title race with 12 games to go.

Chelsea had led through Branislav Ivanovic's first-half opener, but Ben Mee headed in Burnley's lever after key midfielder Nemanja Matic was sent off.

United lost for only the second time since November — and could find itself out of the Champions League qualification places by the end of the weekend — as Swansea came from behind to win 2-1.

Arsenal jumped ahead of United into third place with a 2-1 win at Crystal Palace thanks to goals

by Santi Cazorla, from the penalty spot, and Olivier Giroud. Fifth-

place Southampton hosts Liverpool on Sunday.

Tim Sherwood made a disappointing start to his managerial career at Aston Villa, with the team losing 2-1 at home to Stoke to stay in the relegation zone and drop below Burnley on goal difference.

Queens Park Rangers is only out of the bottom three because of goal difference after losing 2-1 at Hull. The London club's midfielder, Joey Barton, was sent off in the 32nd minute for hitting out at two opponents, and Hull scored an 89th-minute winner through Dame N'Doye.

Sunderland went three points ahead of QPR by drawing 0-0 with West Bromwich Albion.

Alonso taken to hospital after crash at Barcelona MONTMELO, FEBRUARY 22 (AP): Fernando Alonso has been taken to hospital by helicopter after crashing in his McLaren during Formula One preseason testing on Sunday. McLaren said on Twitter: "Fernando is conscious and is speaking. He has been airlifted to hospital for further checks."

Track officials at the Barcelona-Catalunya circuit said Alonso went off at turn three and hit the wall. They said he was transported to hospital "to continue with medical tests" after being treated at the circuit medical center. McLaren has been plagued by technical problems this preseason after switching to Honda engines ahead of the upcoming season. Neither the team nor track officials have reported the cause of the crash. Alonso, 33, rejoined McLaren this season after a disappointing fifth and final campaign with Ferrari. He won back-to-back world titles with Renault in 2005 and 2006 before spending one season at McLaren in 2007. Ferrari tweeted "All the best Fernando."

Zeliangrong Shooting Competition PEREN, FEBRUARY 22 (MExN): The 1st Air Gun shooting competition of the Zeliangrong people within Nagaland, Assam and Manipur was conducted on February 14 at Mungleu River, Jalukie ‘B’ village, Peren. A press release from Organizing Secretary Namduarai Pame informed that the tournament was declared open by the Chief Guest Dennis Elunglung. Reluisilung of Jalukie ‘B’ won the first prize while Pehau Haikube of Gaili Village bagged the second prize. Later in the afternoon, Chamchang Nchang as Guest of Honor declared the tournament closed. The Guest of Honor gave away prizes to the winners.

Fognini knocks Nadal out of Rio Open

RIO DE JANEIRO, FEBRUARY 22 (AP): Rafael Nadal was beaten in the semifinals of the Rio Open on Saturday, losing 1-6, 6-2, 7-5 on clay to Italian Fabio Fognini, who will meet David Ferrer in the final.

Nadal has played three tournaments this year and has not reached a final. He lost in the quarterfinals of the Australian Open, was beaten in the first round of the Qatar Open, and is now out of Rio, on his preferred clay surface, in a tournament he won last year.

He also won on clay two years ago in Chile on the Latin American swing.

"Everybody knows he (Nadal) is the best on this surface," Fognini said. "I don't have words to describe this moment. I am super happy. It's the best match I have won so far in my career."

Nadal will play next week in Buenos Aires, hoping to rebound with an eye on the French Open three months away. He has won nine of the past 10 title at Roland Garros, but this time may be his biggest challenge.

"I feel my tennis is close, closer than a month ago to the level I want to arrive again," said Nadal, who missed much of last year with illness and injury.

Nadal complained of cramps from the Rio heat, and said he simply has not played enough. He said he's motivated, and said Rio "was not a negative week."

However, he hedged if he would be back next year for this tournament. But he said he would be for the Rio Olympics.

Nadal looks much slimmer than a year ago, although he said earlier in the week his weight had stayed the same for six years — between 85-86.5 kilos (188-190 pounds).

"My physical side is about the same as always," he said. "Everything is the same. There are no changes in my life. There are no changes in my preparation." Fognini won the match by scrambling to the net and scooping a ball — that had nipped the cord — back across for the winner.

Nadal won the first set easily but was not able to maintain that level.

Fabio Fognini, of Italy, returns the ball to Rafael Nadal of Spain during the semifinals of the Rio Open tennis tournament in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Saturday, February 21. (AP Photo)

"I have to be happy the way I played that first set," Nadal said. "But I got tired too early today. ... But these kinds of things can happen."

Nadal surely was tired.

He played until 3:18 on Saturday morning before beating No. 6-seeded Pablo Cuevas. He was back on court just 17 hours later.

Fognini also played a late match the night before, but

not quite as late as Nadal.

Ferrer progressed to Sunday's final by defeating Andreas Haider-Maurer of Austria 7-5, 6-1. Spain's Ferrer has played Fognini seven times, and won them all. The final will be in the early evening, but the temperature will still hover around 32C (90F) with stifling humidity.

"At night it's better, but you still sweat a ton," Fer-

rer said. "The humidity and heat is taking away the energy and spark I have normally."

The women's final will be between top-seeded Sara Errani and No. 6 Anna Schmiedlova of Slovakia.

Schmiedlova defeated No. 2 Irina-Camelia Begu of Romania 6-3, 4-6, 6-2, and Errani won over No. 5 Johanna Larsson of Sweden 7-5, 6-3.

public discourse

What is a definition of a politician these days in Nagaland?

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politician is someone who is the friendliest of people once in five years. He/she is like Santa Claus that brings Christmas to our constituencies once every five years. We may have anywhere between two to a few visiting our humble villages and giving out goodies like meat, cash and many a times free booze. These people also bring along with them bags filled with promises and dreams of future prosperity. They paint to us a picture of a grand future where everyone is free and living in peace and prosperity. Unfortunately with these goodies they also bring to surface many of the old rivalries between families/

clans/villages. That is not forgetting the good old phenomenon called tribalism and regionalism. And with this animosity comes the attending violence in many places disrupting our homes and hearth. The booze also brings many problems where there were none creating unwanted disruptions in our lives. And let’s not forget our favorite gift cold hard cash which we as people tend to waste as money not earned with the sweat from your brow does not hold that much value and we usually waste it on frivolous things that does not one bit to improve the quality of our lives.

That is just a glimpse of the festival called elections that politicians bring

every five years.

Since in Nagaland elections have not been till date a festival of democracy as practiced around the world where issues of the people are discussed thread bare and the most competent is chosen to lead the people to address these issues the result is something we the people of Nagaland have been living with since attaining Statehood a long time back.

What about the period in between these days of debauchery we call elections where the basest of human conduct is displayed out in the open for all to see? These creatures we call politicians who are elected to serve the needs of society turn

into rulers wielding immense power with no accountability. For five blissful years they and their acolytes lord over us as monarchs of the old. Everywhere politicians are elected to lead their constituents in putting forward the issues of those who elected them but unfortunately In Nagaland being a legislator is to try and enter the Government to get a plum portfolio or a means to leverage their positions for personal benefit. Those in outside the ruling dispensation is not to act as an effective opposition holding the ruling party to account and being a counter to the Govt. but about biding their time until it’s their time. So that in short is what a politician means in

Nagaland. A cart blanche to act as if they own our beloved state and not servants who were elected to serve their constituents who had elected them.

If this carries on Nagaland will be a failed State soon if it already isn’t.

What we need today is a new narrative on changing the way politics has been carrying on in Nagaland till date. It is time when the youth, the women and all right thinking people make politics about the people lead by the people. The sort of politics, where power emanates from the bottom and not the top. Where the common man has every chance to meaningfully participate on how the State

is run. Governance where transparency and accountability, is the key for people’s participation in politics.

Delhi has shown that this is possible and if Nagaland cannot take a lesson from this then a great opportunity would have passed and the same old same old would be the reality and we will have no one to blame except our selves. Some people may call the methods of AAP anarchy but for me it is anarchy only to those it is targeted at and that is at those who believe this status quo is working and profit from the situation.

Kuknalim Ao Temjen Jamir, Dimapur.

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

Monday

Entertainment

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Reese Witherspoon used hypnosis to battle insecurities

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eese Witherspoon has revealed she was hypnotised before taking on the role of Cheryl Strayed - for which she has been nominated for an Oscar - in 'Wild' to help her overcome her insecurities.

The 38-year-old actress - who is nominated in the Best Actress category for her portrayal of Cheryl Strayed in 'Wild' at this year's Oscars - admitted years of being told she was too fat or short for Hollywood roles had taken their toll on her self esteem, so she turned to hypnosis for a confidence boost before taking on the gritty role.

She said: ''People may think I have this dream life, but for years I worried about my looks. ''I thought I was too short or not thin enough to be a Hollywood star. I was constantly being told, 'No, not right, not tall enough, not pretty enough, not sexy enough'. I wasn't allowed to audition for roles because they saw me as too cute and girlie. ''So I decided if I was to succeed I had to face facts. I could never be the sexiest, thinnest girl in Hollywood. ''[Hypnosis] was so helpful. I get panic attacks, especially right before I start a movie. ''Half the time on set I feel like I'm hanging on by the seat of my pants and I don't know what the heck I am doing.''

The blonde beauty - who won the Best Actress Oscar in 2006 for her role in the Johnny Cash biopic 'Walk The Line' -also opened up about her decision to start her own film production company, Pacific Standard, in 2012, after realising there weren't enough lead roles for women being developed in Hollywood.

According to The Sun newspaper, she said: ''Other than one studio, literally one, nobody was developing anything with a female lead. ''It just hit me like a ton of bricks and I was so mad. ''I had stories I wanted to tell and I'd become increasingly frustrated.''

23 February 2015

Harper BeckHam

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'flooded with modelling offers '

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t really was only a matter of time before Harper Beckham became involved in what is fast becoming the family business. With two of her brothers - Romeo and Brooklyn - and a mum and dad all partial to a bit of posing, her fate as a model seems somewhat set.

The tot, who recently stole the spotlight as she sat front row at mum Victoria's latest New York Fashion Week show, has reportedly been "flooded with modelling offers" totalling £30 million.

The Daily Star quotes a 'fashion insider' as saying: "Companies see her as the greatest role model for a wholesome, modern family image."

"She's surrounded by a happily-married working couple and go-getting brothers. You cannot buy that kind of appeal,"

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they add.

Harper is now, rather disturbingly, "the most wanted female in the world of fashion and entertainment, even putting North [West] and Blue Ivy in the shade."

Parents David and Victoria are said to have shunned the offers, understandably, given that Harper is so young. Nevertheless, her brother Romeo was only 10 when he first modelled for Burberry, so no doubt Harper will take a slice on the £30 million pie before long.

Bruce DicKinSon survives cancer battle

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ron Maiden frontman Bruce Dickinson has been undergoing cancer treatment just before Christmas, recently completing a seven-week course for chemotherapy and radiology. A statement on the band's website said tests discovered a small tumour on

the back of the singer’s tongue.

The group reports that Dickinson’s prognosis is “extremely good” given the tumour was caught in the early stages. Doctors expect him to be given the “all clear” by late May. “We would ask for your patience, understanding and respect for Bruce and his family's privacy until we update everyone by the end of May,” the band said collectively, “Bruce is doing very well considering the circumstances, and the whole team is very positive.”

Iron Maiden remain one of the most popular touring bands in the world and a report in late 2013 suggested the metal group were using analytics from BitTorrent websites to plot their tour dates.

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Drashti Dhami ties the knot

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ctress Drashti Dhami tied the knot on Saturday evening with her long term boyfriend Neeraj Khemka. Drashti, who is a popular actress on television got married on February 21 at the Sun 'N Sand Hotel in Juhu. Neeraj Khemka is a NRI business tycoon settled in Mumbai.

The two have been in a relationship for over four years.

Dhami and Khemka have been quite open about the relationship and have been often spotted at events and parties together. The two make a lovely couple indeed and looked fabulous in their wedding ensembles.

Dhami shot to stradom with her role in 'Geet' and 'Madhubala' on the idiotbox. She has been a household name after her win in the 6th season of Indian dance reality show Jhalak Dikhhla Jaa, along with choreographer Salman Yusuff Khan.

Launching fashion label was Shraddha Kapoor's

'dream'

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carlett Johansson is set to relaunch her music career after forming a girl band with rocker Este Haim. The Lucy star first dabbled in music in 2008 when she released a Tom Waits tribute album and she is now part of new group The Singles, which she has formed with the Haim singer.

Other members include musicians Kendra Morris, Holly Miranda, and Julia Haltigan, and their first track is called Candy. Johansson says, "The idea was to write superpop dance music written and performed by girls. I love Grimes. And I love the Bangles. And I love the Go-Go's. I wanted it to be like those bands: ultra pop but also a little ironic, a little in on the joke."

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hraddha Kapoor, who has launched her own fashion label Inara, says it was once a dream for her. The actress-singer took to micro-blogging site Twitter to announce the venture and posted: "#OnceUponATime, launching my own fashion label was just a dream. It isn't any more. Check out #IMARA, my fashion line for the new Indian woman!!! Visithttp://amazon. in/fashion @amazonIN." The 25-year-old actress' line features a set of affordable designs between Rs.799 and Rs.3,999 and the theme behind the creation is fantasy.

The actress features on the poster for the fashion label, modelling bright red hair and an avantgarde garment with the caption "Once Upon A Time I feared wolves".

Following the success of Haider, Kapoor has been confirmed as the main female lead in Rock On 2. The star will join original cast members Farhan Akhtar, Arjun Rampal and Purab Kohli in the sequel to the 2008 hit. She is also shooting for ABCD 2 with Varun Dhawan.

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Jinx broken, Men in Blue thump Proteas at MCG India beat South Africa by 130 runs after bowling them out for 177

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Melbourne, February 22 (PTI): Shikhar Dhawan smashed a rollicking 137 as India rode on a clinical display to break their World Cup jinx against South Africa with an emphatic 130-run victory in a group B match here on Sunday.

Dhawan's career-best 137 propelled India to a comfortable 307 for seven before the bowlers performed brilliantly to bundle out the Proteas for 177 in 40.2 overs in what turned out to be a rather lopsided contest at the packed Melbourne Cricket Ground. This was India's maiden World Cup win against South Africa after having lost the clashes in 1992, 1999 and 2011. With two wins from as many matches, India now have a very good chance of qualifying for the quarterfinals as group leaders.

It was yet another commendable show by the Indians, who came into the tournament with a string of poor results in the tri-series preceding the mega-event.

Mohit Sharma (2/31 in 7 overs), Ravichandran Ashwin (3/41 in 10 overs) and Mohammed Shami (2/30 in 8 overs) kept the opposition batsmen under tight leash for better part of the innings. The bowling unit fired in unison as South Africa never recovered once skipper AB de Villiers (30) fell short of his crease with Mohit's accurate throw on top of the stumps sending the destructive player back in the pavilion.

De Villiers and Du Plessis were going strong at one

stage adding 68 runs for the third wicket as South Africa reached 108 for two before the skipper got run-out.

Du Plessis (55) tried his best to stem the rot but once he mistimed a pull-shot off Mohit to Dhawan at covers, it was just a mere formality for the 'Men In Blue', who hardly put a foot wrong in front of the 86,786 crowd of which at least 75,000 were Indian supporters.

Earlier, Dhawan bludgeoned his way to a careerbest knock as India posted a commendable 307 for seven against the title contenders. Dhawan's 137 off 146 balls coupled with Ajinkya Rahane's 60-ball 79 set the platform for a commendable total despite yet another mini-collapse at the death when the winners lost five wickets for 46 runs in the last 6.3 overs.

En route his seventh ODI ton, that had 16 boundaries and two sixes, Dhawan earned the distinction of achieving the highest score by any batsman in a World Cup game against South Africa. The Delhi left-hander's love affair with South African bowling continued as this is his second ODI hundred against the Proteas in successive ICC tournaments, after having scored one back in 2013 in a Champions Trophy game in Cardiff. The Indian top-order once again fired beautifully. Dhawan and Virat Kohli again had a productive partnership that yielded 127 runs for the second wicket.

Kohli (46, 60 balls) again was playing the role of an

India's Shikhar Dhawan celebrates after scoring a century against South Africa during their Cricket World Cup pool B match in Melbourne, Australia, Sunday, February 22. (AP Photo)

anchor before a moment's indiscretion saw him gift his wicket to leg-spinner Imran Tahir by posting his long hop straight to Faf du Plessis at short mid-wicket.

However, Rahane was in a mood to make amends for his failure during Pakistan game as he matched Dhawan stroke for stroke during their rollicking 125-run stand for the third wicket in only 16.3 overs. Rahane hit seven fours and three sixes with Dhawan, who has regained his form just when it matters the most, started his innings from where he had left off against Pakistan.

It started with a clip off

Vernon Philander to square leg boundary followed by a square drive off Dale Steyn.

Then came an attractive cover drive as Dhawan got going.

Any width outside the offstump was dealt with ferocity.

With the MCG track offering even bounce, the ball came to bat beautifully, just what the Delhi left-hander required.

It couldn't have been a better venue for Dhawan than the MCG as Melbourne is his second home, where he stays with his wife Ayesha and three children, when he is not on tour.

Dhawan did give a chance at 52 when his flashy cut shot was dropped by

Hashim Amla at backward point off Parnell's bowling but there was no looking back after that.

The shot that got him his century was also just a push through the cover point region off Parnell that reached boundary. The celebration was typically Dhawan, helmets off, bat raised and the arms stretched like wings with a sense of satisfaction in that wide grin.

His first six was a slower delivery from Steyn that he picked early while the second one was the shot of the Indian innings. It was a flicked six by Dhawan off a Morne Morkel delivery.

It was a case of pure handeye co-ordination as Morkel bowled one fuller onto his legs and he whipped it over deep square leg with a little shuffle. Rahane also showed why he is rated so highly by one and all. The six over long-off of Steyn's bowling was a pure delight as was his step out off Tahir to dispatch him for the maximum.

For South Africa, Steyn bowled a brilliant last over with four dot balls to end with figures of 1/55 while Morne Morkel had 2/59 from nine overs. Parnell recorded the worst figures of 1/85 off 9 overs with consolation wicket of Dhawan.

Sri Lanka survive scare to beat Afghanistan

DuneDIn, February 22 (aFP): Mahela Jayawardene's century rescued Sri Lanka from a batting meltdown as they beat Afghanistan by four wickets in their ICC World Cup 2-15 match in Dunedin on Sunday. Set a modest target of 233 to win the Pool A game, 1996 champions Sri Lanka were stunned when openers Lahiru Thirimanne and Tillakaratne Dilshan both fell for golden ducks. They were in further strife at 51 for four before Jayawardene (100) and skipper Angelo Mathews (44) rectified the innings with a 126-run partnership before Sri Lanka won with 10 balls to spare at University Oval.

Jaywardene's crucial innings was his 19th ODI century and one of his most valuable as Sri Lanka, losing finalists at the last two World Cups, were in trouble before he set about taming the bowling. This was Sri Lanka's first win in two games this tournament following a 98-run defeat by New Zealand, but the plaudits went to World Cup debutants Afghanistan, who only let themselves down with a slow run-rate in the second half of their innings.

Sent in to bat in spicy, overcast conditions they reached 169 for four before the last 15 overs saw six wickets go down as they were dismissed for 232 with two balls remaining. It left Sri Lanka with a modest chase but an experienced side made life difficult for themselves as, for only the second time in one-day international history, both openers fell first ball. Dawlat Zadran had Thirimanne leg before wicket with the first ball of the innings and Dilshan was caught behind off the first ball he faced from Shapoor Zadran in the second over.

The slump did not end there as Hamid Hassan continued the demolition of the Sri Lankan top order. He bowled Kumar Sangakkara for seven and Dimuth Karunaratne was caught behind for 23 as Sri Lanka reeled at 51 for four against an Afghanistan side beaten in their tournament opener by Bangladesh. After leaving the field to address problems with his boots, the flamboyant Hassan came back to end Jayawardene's stand and finished with figures of three for 45.

Sri Lanka were 178 for six, requiring 54 runs in under nine overs, when Thisara Perera eased their nerves with a decisive and quickfire unbeaten 47. Afghanistan may be regarded as rank outsiders but Dawlat Zadran, Shapoor Zadran and Hassan taught Sri Lanka a lesson on how to utilise the conditions. With cloudy skies following overnight rain, and with the ground renowned for early swing, Mathews did not think twice about fielding when he won the toss. However, Lasith Malinga and Suranga Lakmal were too loose to threaten Afghanistan openers Javed Ahmadi and Nawroz Mangal.

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Published, Printed and Edited by Ak端m Longchari on behalf of Morung for Indigenous Affairs and JustPeace from House No. 4, Duncan Bosti, Dimapur at Themba Printers and Telecommunications, Padum Pukhuri Village, Dimapur, Nagaland.

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