February 2nd, 2016

C M Y K

www.morungexpress.com

TuesDAY • februArY 02 • 2016

DIMAPUR • Vol. XI • Issue 30 • 12 PAGes • 5

T H e

ESTD. 2005

Never interrupt your enemy when he is making a mistake Israel Prime Minister rejects French ‘ultimatum’ on Palestinian statehood PAGe 09

Students suffer at GMS New Market Kohima since upgradation in 2012

Morung Express News Kohima | February 1

reflections

By Sandemo Ngullie

The site and foundation stone for the upgraded GMS New Market, Kohima. No development has taken place despite the school being upgraded in 2012.

won the court case last year, he stated the inability to begin construction due to the prolonged court case. The contractor revealed that construction work for the new school will start on Monday (February 1). The only work seen at site till now has been a site leveling work carried out last year. Students of class 9 continued to hold classes in a rented room paid by the colony ward till 2015.

Last year, out of 41 students in class 9 only 37 students passed, says Bendang, Head Teacher of the school, adding that the pass percentage for the class 9 students since its upgradation has always been below 50 per cent.

The school at present has a total of 23 teachers. The upgraded classes will require seven teachers at the least according to the subject requirement.

Due to the non-deployment of teachers, the school

Dimapur | February 1

Nagamese has no script of its own, but it can be written in English script. Problem is we don’t know how to read and write in English!

One policeman was arrested for allegedly raping a minor girl in Kohima. The incident occurred on January 30 and the accused arrested subsequently.

The accused policeman was identified as Constable Issac Rengma of DEF Kohima. According to the PRO, Kohima police, the matter came to light after the victim told her mother of the incident. It resulted in the arrest of the accused, who admitted to police of committing the crime.

The victim was raped twice as per the statement of the accused, stated the

has not been able to upgrade to class 10. This has also affected the education of students where the students of Class 9 have secured low percentage in their results.

Residents in the area said that seeking admission for class 10 is a difficult task, which is compounded by the poor economic background of most students.

To pursue their class 10, the students have to go to Seikhazou Higher Secondary School or Rüzhükhrie Higher Secondary School, which means they have to walk a long distance or board buses.

Following the upgradation, several memorandums were sent to the Minister of School Education in 2013. A letter was also sent to the RMSA Mission Director in 2015 requesting for the construction and more importantly teachers to be deployed for the school. Yet no concrete action has taken place.

NAYPYITAW, FebruArY 1 (reuTers): Hundreds of lawmakers from Aung San Suu Kyi’s National League of Democracy were sworn into Myanmar’s parliament on Monday, with enough seats to choose the country’s first democratically elected government since the military took power in 1962.

The NLD won some 80 percent of elected seats in November’s historic vote, catapulting it to power as Myanmar’s ruling party after decades of struggle that saw many of its members imprisoned.

But the junta-drafted constitution means the party will have to share power with the army that for years suppressed, often brutally, the Nobel Peace Prize laureate and her allies.

The first sitting of the NLD-dominated parliament is another step in Myanmar’s drawn-out transition, which started with the election and will go on until the NLD government officially begins its term in April after parliament has picked a president.

“This is Myanmar’s first parliament in years that was chosen by the people,” said Pyon Cho, who is now a lawmaker and spent 20 years in jail as a member of the anti-junta group the 88 Generation Students.

“We have the majority.

We have the duty to fulfil our manifesto and change the lives of the people in

PRO, while adding that it occurred in a forested area below Alder College during daytime. The girl, who is said to be mentally challenged, was lured and taken by the accused to the site of the crime, added the PRO. The constable was placed under suspension following the arrest, while departmental disciplinary proceedings will be initiated against him. It was in addition to the criminal case registered at the North Police Station, the PRO informed. The accused was in police remand, while the medical report on the case was awaited.

Meanwhile, the Nagaland Baptist Church Coun-

cil (NBCC) has condemned incident. “The Council is appalled that such crime had happened to a girl who cannot protect herself and who is to be protected by the society and specially police personnel,” stated the NBCC through a press statement.

While demanding the police, judiciary other relevant commissions, departments and agencies to take concrete measures for a speedy investigation, the NBCC appealed that the accused be not bailed and brought to justice. It also appealed the civil society to condemn the crime meted out to a girl, who “could not make out the difference of right and wrong.”

Prof. A Lanunungsang Ao & Ahidur Rahman are conferred Peace awards Morung Express News Dimapur | February 1

C M Y K

Former Pro-Vice Chancellor of Nagaland University, Prof. A Lanunungsang Ao and Working President of Muslim Council Dimapur, Ahidur Rahman, were conferred Peace Awards by the Peace Channel during the valedictory session of the 2nd National Peace Convention held at Town Hall Dimapur on Monday.

Prof. Lanunungsang was chosen for the Award for his contribution towards building peace amongst the Nagas through his literary works, while Ahidur Rahman was chosen for his work in maintaining communal harmony, especially in the wake of March 5, 2015 lynching incident in Dimapur and exodus of NE students from South India in 2012.

Deputy Commissioner, Dimapur, Kesonye Yhome,

Prof. A Lanunungsang Ao and Ahidur Rahman who were conferred Peace Awards along with Bishop of Nagaland, Most Rev. James Thoppill and others during the valedictory session of the 2nd National Peace Convention at Town Hall Dimapur, Monday.

who was the chief guest of the valedictory function in his address, said “we are surrounded by culture of violence in our society” and stressed on the necessity for peace in a world where frequency of violence has accelerated.

Yhome said peace is a

T R u T H

— Napoleon Bonaparte

Training on ‘Impact of weather Guardiola to be Man City manager next season on crop and animal enterprises’

time-taking process and not an end in itself but a process that generates respect for others, social values and dignity and right of every human being.

The DC said it is important for everyone to come together and change the general world view on

PAGE 12

new era dawns for Myanmar

Policeman held for rape, admits to crime Morung Express News

o F

PAGe 02

Upgraded and Ignored

Established in 1939, the New Market Government Middle School (GMS) under Kohima district is the second oldest school in the state capital. It was upgraded to a High School under the RMSA Scheme 2010-11 along with schools in Mezoma, New Market, Tsemenyu New, Dikie (Dihoma), Khonoma and Jakhama. It was officially inaugurated in 2012.

The RMSA scheme says it is supposed to provide ‘important quality interventions.’ However, years since the upgradation of the school, no additional teachers have been deployed.

The school had to hire a private tutor last year to teach mathematics, while the rest of the subjects have been managed by the middle school teachers.

“There is no action, no botheration,” expressed a frustrated resident at New Market Colony.

The site for the upgraded school, which was bought by the colony for Rs 5.5 lakh was inaugurated on February 27, 2012. Yet due to a lengthy court case between two contractors the construction was delayed. On contacting the Contractor in charge who

P o W e R

peace and to think from a new perceptive.

On the occasion, Bishop of Nagaland, Most Rev. James Thoppill also spoke on the importance of building peace in the society. KJ Alphons, IAS (Rtd), delivered words of inspiration during the occasion.

Myanmar’s National League for Democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi arrives to the opening of the new parliament in Naypyitaw February 1. (REUTERS)

this country.”

Some new members looked disoriented as they wandered through the enormous parliament building in the purposebuilt capital raised by the junta in secret from the rice paddies. The presidential nomination process is likely to take place later in the month, NLD members said.

Under the 2008 constitution, Suu Kyi is barred from taking the position

because her children are not Myanmar citizens. She has given no indication as to who will take over from outgoing President Thein Sein and the NLD has no clear number two.

IN CONTROL Suu Kyi has said she will be “above the president” and in complete control of the government, but the NLD has not explained how she will do this.

Each of the parliament’s two chambers will choose a presidential candidate and the military officials who hold a quarter of seats will also put forward their own nominee.

A combined session of the chambers will then vote on the three candidates.

The winner will become president, with the other two serving as vice presidents.

This week, the NLD will

focus on appointing parliamentary speakers, who were announced last week.

It will also prepare for the start of state and regional assemblies on February 8, some in places dominated by large ethnic minorities such as Shan State in the east or Rakhine in the west.

Expectations are towering for Suu Kyi, who is regarded with an almost religious zeal in the Southeast Asian nation. Suu Kyi spent 15 years under house arrest after the NLD won an election in 1990. The junta never recognised the result of that vote.

Myanmar’s 51.5 million people expect the NLD to fix everything, from completing the transformation of an economy stunted by decades of isolation to bringing peace to states riven by ethnic conflict.

“They (people) hope that every problem will be solved automatically after the NLD becomes the government, FDI (foreign direct investment) will come in,” said Shwe Mann, the outgoing speaker of parliament, who is close to Suu Kyi despite being a former leader of the junta-linked Union Solidarity and Development Party.

“To accomplish the challenges, they need to choose the right people and put them in right positions,” said Shwe Mann.

“This is also my main concern, because it will decide the performance of her government.”

Dimapur Peace Declaration 2016 calls for abolition of AfsPA

Morung Express News Dimapur | February 1

The Dimapur Peace Declaration 2016, formulated during the course of the 2nd National Peace Convention, has called for the abolition of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Acts (AFSPA), among other resolutions.

The Convention also appealed to the Central Government and various ethnic groups in northeast region to ‘enter into dialogue’ and avoid usage of force and violence.

The 2nd National Peace Convention (NPC) concluded here today at Hotel Acacia, Dimapur, recognising the road to peace to be arduous but affirming solemn commitment to become promoters and builders of peace.

210 people from 16 States congregated in Dimapur -listening, reflecting and deliberating on peace- from different perspectives, recognising the urgency of peace-building.

The Convention was organised by the National Peace Movement in collaboration with Rotary International Dist. 3040 & 3240, NEISSR, Peace Channel, Universal Solidarity Movement and other NGOs. NPC Chairman, Varghese Alengaden, informed that the next Convention will be held in Goa, and urged all the delegates to be the torch bearers of the resolutions adopted at the Convention.

Addressing the valedictory function today,

People’s Forum for Peace (PFP) Chairman & Peace Activist, A Taku Longkumer, noted that Dimapur is like ‘mini-India’ where people from all communities and religion have resided without discrimination since its inception.

“Let us not politicize the (peace) movement and discard negativity from our mindset and join hand to make concerted effort to bring peace within our midst,” he urged the delegates.

Ashok Mahajan, Chairman of Rotary Foundation of India, who was

Arguing that religious divide, caste discrimination, untouchability, inequality, empowerment offers significant challenges to peace and national integration, Mahajan further called for breaking out of ‘old-fashioned prejudices’ and look at issues from a new eye.

“Let unity of the nation be our primary task,” he said.

The Rotary Foundation Chairman also called for celebrating diversity as a uniting factor, not a divisive force and making a conscious attempt to

like workshop, seminars especially in educational institution.

“Make non-violence and forgiveness components of all subjects,” it suggested. The Government may increase the allocation for providing quality education to all especially to the poor through government schools and skills training, it stated.

It also resolved to be ‘proactive’ in the situation of conflict by taking initiative for bringing conflicting groups for dialogue and reconciliation.

Sharing time and resources for needy and for the common good of society and educating the youth about the ‘need for paying back to the society’ for the same was another important resolution adopted.

On economic front, it called for incorporating local self government, community based organisations and social activists in the process of state or central economic planning and making development inclusive to poor and marginalized community.

The resolution also appealed the media to highlight the ‘positive and proactive’ action taking place in the society and to minimize the reporting on crime and violence.

NPC General Secretary Dr. Sangeeeta Jain’s parting words reverberated among the attendees as she reminded, quoting Robert Frost, that they have “Promises to keep, and miles to go” before they sleep.

2nd National Peace Convention concludes; next to be held in Goa Chief Guest on the occasion, said that while every proud Indian respectfully remembers Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi, on his death anniversary on January 30, we neglect his philosophy and ethos.

Gandhi was the only Indian who did not differentiate on creed and deed, he maintained, regretting that Indians are no longer influenced by his lifestyle.

In this context, reiterating Gandhi’s notion that “An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind,” Mahajan opined that it is the right time for the positive forces of ‘Ahimsa’ (Non-Violence) to come alive.

Don’t be a passive spectator to things happening around the world or make judgment and perception sitting in the cool comfort of your room, he urged.

change our perception of other.

Changes should start within us, he stressed. “Be a candle and a mirror that reflect peace.”

The president of Local Organising Committee, Dr. CP Anto stated that the Convention was a golden opportunity, especially for those coming from outside, to understand the reality of the north-east, particularly of Nagaland.

He also spelled out the highlights of the Convention – the Dimapur Peace Declaration 2016 – a set of resolutions arrived at after 3 days of deliberation and discussion on peace.

At the outset, the Convention resolved with conviction to create awareness about the contribution of Mahatma Gandhi to ‘peace, forgiveness, and harmony’ through various avenues

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tuesDAY 02•02•2016

NAGALAND

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Reliving the age-old fRiendship… Training on ‘Impact of weather

F

riendship, conciliation and honour are in the Naga blood. Even the word friendship – “Temba” (an Ao word for friendship) – is a very sacred among Ao community, or for that matter, the Naga tribes. That’s why, a guest, however, lowly or high is a guest and ought to be protected or treated well…

Stories abound of such friendship between villages, tribes, clans and different communities. Sungratsu village (approximately 20 kilometers away from Mokokchung) relived that ancient calling for friendship as the brethrens from the Sangtam community from the Angangba village (Tuensang district) joined together in celebration of an age-old honor called friendship that was forged in the year 1927, when a Sungratsu citizen and an Angangba village citizen met, and made friendship over the transaction of a Mithun. The story lives on.

The Morung Express presents a pictoral panorama of the event called ‘Aksü”.

on crop and animal enterprises’

Mon, February 1 (Mexn): Gramin Krishi Mausam Sewa, ICAR Research complex for NEH Region, Jharnapani in collaboration with KVK Mon conducted a one day awareness-cum-training programme on “Impact of weather on crop and animal enterprises” at DC conference hall, Mon on January 29.

Ilika, SDO (C), HQ, Mon graced the occasion as chief guest. Participants were from different organizations i.e. DHO, DAO, DVO, World Vision, Nehru Yuva Kendra (NYK), ATMA, KVK and progressive farmers from different villages under Mon district. A total of 40 participants attended the awareness programme.

Martha, SMS Plant protection KVK Mon, chaired the programme. Dr. Ruokuovilie Mezhatsu, Programme Co-ordinator.

KVK Mon gave the welcome address. A book on Inventory of Agriculture 2015 of Mon district by KVK Mon was released by the chief guest.

Ilika, SDO (C), HQ, Mon, Nagaland speaking on the occasion stressed that climate change has become a burning issue and each individual has a great responsibility. She addressed the gathering to be sincere and be more practical.

The inaugural session was followed by technical session. The participants were highlighted on Importance of Gramin Krishi Mausam Sewa, in present context; Soil health under changing climate situation; Livestock production management with the changing climate scenario; Insect pest management of important crops with regard to change in environmental factors

by Imtisenla walling. Technical Officer (GKMS); James Kikon SMS (Soil science).

KVK Dimapur; Dr. Ebibeni. SMS (Animal science). KVK Dimapur and Akato, NU SASRD. Medziphema.

The programme ended by vote of thanks proposed by Imtisenla walling, Technical Officer (GKMS).

Dimapur dist observes Anti Leprosy Day

DiMapur, February 1 (Mexn): Dimapur District National Leprosy Eradication Programme observed Anti Leprosy Day at Domokhia, Neetaji Colony, Eros lane and 7th Mile on January 30.

The Anti-Leprosy Day was observed by organizing health talks and visiting patients. The team led by Dr. Toshirenla, ZLO Dimapur also examined the patients, cleaning and dressing the affected areas of the patients and distributing free mediA Sangtam man clad in full traditional attire claps as cine. To mark the occasion, the team also WE ARE ONE: Womenfolk of Angangba village rejoic- he witnesses the rejuvenation of age-old between A Tatar of Sungratsu village points to the pig distributed sandal, shawl, school bag and ing at the ‘Aksü” (or the traditional bonding of age-old the Angangba and Sungratsu villages – or to be to be shared as a bond of friendship between jacket to Grade-II Leprosy patients. friendship.) between Sungratsu and Angangba village. more precise, between the Aos and the Sangtams. the two villages.

Dr. Toshirenla, ZLO Dimapur also in-

formed that only those skin patches; reddish or white with no sensation should get it examine at the Urban Leprosy Clinic (ULC), Dimapur, opposite Chief Medical Officer’s office. The clinic also provides free consultation and treatment. She also urged the public, especially those who are infected, to seek early treatment to avoid losing of fingers and toes and even limbs.

She emphasized that Leprosy is curable and the treatment is free at the ULC. She further encouraged the public to identify and assist Leprosy patients to seek early treatment and help the Department in controlling and also eradicating this disease.

ATMA-farmers interaction prog at Ekokju

DiMapur, February 1 (Mexn): One day interaction programme between Agriculture Technology Management Agency and farmers was held on January 28 at Ekokju village, Wokha. The interaction was monitored by a team from NU, SASRD, Medziphema as third party monitoring team.

Dr. Tongpang, Convenor of the team, speaking during the programme encouraged In harmony everywhere: Anganba village womenfolk reliving the lives that And so the meat is divided equally. The pork is shared and so friendship the farmers, saying Ekokju Village with its fertile land revived. have gone by. Singing the song of self sufficiency. and gentle slopes should be This kind of ‘Aksu’ held between different villages, clans and even communities, and perhaps it is one of the best methods of reviving the age- cultivated through scientific old relationship called ‘Naga friendship’. technology. He instructed Photographs by Imrongkumba Aier; Compiled by Longrangty Longchar the farmers about soyabean

‘Lungyim’ cultivation and introduced a book on soyabean.

Dr. Mhonchan Shitiri, PD ATMA, highlighted the importance of farmer-ATMA interaction. He assured to provide a grass/ paddy straw cutter machine for mushroom to the farmers.

Ekokju Village Chairman Mongathung Ezung and Secretary Lankonthung Ezung, women’s representative and Mhomo, Fishery Inspector presented short speeches during the programme, a press release received here informed.

Dr. Santosh, an agronomist from SASRD Dimapur,

who is also the co-ordinator of the monitoring team, encouraged the farmers to co-ordinate with the department concerned and avail the various facilities provided.

The “Integrated Farm School” (IFS) at Ekokju village under Wokha district which was established in the year 2015, was seen progressing in the field of ginger cultivation, banana, soyabean, fishery and mushroom. Very soon the farmers will be imparted training on Aloe Vera cultivation, its usages and introduction of soaps making, said the visiting officials.

Farmers-Scientist interact

Poumai Naga Baptist Association (PNBA) and Mao Baptist Churches Association (MBCA) is organizing a fellowship on the theme, “Revive us O Lord” to be hosted

by Senapati Karong Baptist Churches at District Headquarters Senapati, Manipur from 4th – 5th February 2016. Therefore, all the unit churches under PNBA and MBCA are requested to send its delegates to this auspicious fellowship.

Zunheboto, February 1 (Mexn): Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Nagaland University, Lumami conducted “Farmers Scientist Interaction” at Litta New Village, VK Town on January 28. Diseases and nutrient management of farm animals and poultry birds were discussed during the session which was sponsored by ATMA, Zunheboto District. Interactions were also made on plant diseases and pest infestations and its management.

The scientists discussed the importance of locally abundant broom sticks to the economy and encouraged the SHGs to take initiatives for cultivating the same. The programme concluded with the distribution of HQPM maize seeds and Trichodermma for seeds and soil treatments. Dr. Visakho Shunyu SMS (GPB & Agronomy), Dr. Nongothung SMS (Animal Science) and Toshi Longkumer SMS (Plant Protection) were the resource persons for MLA & NIDC Ltd Chairman, Tovihoto Ayemi inaugurates Veterinary Colony Council Hall in Dima- the programme. Altogether 20 farmers attended the programme, a press release received here informed. pur on Monday. Earlier, he also inaugurated Welcome Gate of the Colony. (Morung Photo)

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Chss alumni association launched

Lt. THINUOKIELIE KIEWHUO S/O Lt. Duorhilie Kiewhuo Born in: 1932 - Died on: 22/01/2016

A time to be born and a time to die….He has made everything beautiful in its time (Eccl 3:2,11).

We sincerely praise God for blessing our lives with the life of Lt. Thinuokielie Kiewhuo (a Husband, Father and Grandfather), God’s own gracious gift to us and who went to rest in the Heavenly abode with His maker on 22nd January 2016.

We the Family members of Lt. Thinuokielie Kiewhuo sincerely appreciate and gratefully acknowledge all for your kind expressions of affection, prayer and support (financially & Materially) during the recent bereavement of our Beloved Father.

Words are inadequate to express our profound gratitude for the immense love and care we have received from you all.

May the Loving Lord richly bless you all with His favour and faithfulness.

God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.

– Hebrews 6:10

-Loving Wife, Children and Grand & Great Grandchildren

DiMapur, February 1 (Mexn): The Alumni Association of Christian Higher Secondary School Dimapur was officially launched with its 1st General Meeting held at the Covenant Hall, CHSS on January 30.

The office bearers for the year 2016 – 2017 were elected with president Seyiekhrielie Natso (Bimol); Vice president Akang Ao; General Secretary Zeneikhotso Iralu; Finance Committee Secretary Oliur Choudhury; Media & Information

Committee TingbalieIchao and Majid Khan.

The meeting was graced by the Principal S. Moatemsu Walling and Vice Principal Patricia Zhimomi and an array of alumni even from the 1960s, 70s and 80s batches from places like Mon, Kohima and Jalukie attended.

The Association also invites all Alumni to register by contacting the executive members in the school premises or contact via Email: chssalumniassociation@gmail.com, FB: CHSS Alumni Association; Twit- Members of Alumni Association of Christian Higher Secondary School Dimapur and others ter: CHSS Alumni. during the launching held at the Covenant Hall, CHSS on January 30.

Third party monitoring of ATMA Kohima conducted

tseMinyu, February 1 (Mexn): The third party monitoring of ATMA Kohima district was conducted at Tseminyu Block. The formal programme was held at the SDAO office, Tseminyu and was attended by the two member of the third party monitoring team – Dr. Tongpang, Coordinator and Sanjay Das, officials and staffs of SDAO office, Tseminyu and functionaries of ATMA Kohima district.

Members of eight FIGs (Farmers’ Interest Group), Farm school teachers and Third party monitoring team, officials and staffs of SDAO office, Tseminyu and functionar- other farmers also attended the programme. Prior to the ies of ATMA Kohima district the third party monitoring of ATMA Kohima district.

field visits, there was an interaction time between the farmers and the monitoring team.

The field visits included visits to the Piggery farm school at Zunpha; Sugar cane farm school, Terogvunyu; and Cardamon farm school, Kasha.

In each of the farm school, the monitoring team and the ATMA officials interacted with the farm school teacher and discuss about the various problems and potential of the farm school. Further suggestions for improvement of existing practices were also deliberated by the visiting third party with the farmers.

TuesDAY 02•02•2016

NORTH-EAST

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

3

India's fastest-growing state: Meghalaya Prachi Salve & Sanjana Pandit IANS

India's fastest-growing state is Meghalaya at 9.7 percent in 2013-14, higher than the fastest-growing big state, Madhya Pradesh, at 9.5 percent.

Arunachal Pradesh grew faster than Gujarat.

Fewer people, 12.8 million, live below the poverty line in the entire northeast than in just one large state, Karnataka, which has 12.9 million poor people. Tripura reported India's highest unemployment rate, 25.2 percent in urban areas, followed closely

by Nagaland with 23.8 percent in 2011-12. The highest unemployment in the urban areas of a large state was 7 percent, in Jammu and Kashmir.

The eight north-eastern states - Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim (added in 2002) and Tripura - are growing fast, educating their people at a rate much

faster than the rest of India, reducing their dependence on agriculture, and generally prospering, IndiaSpend research has revealed, but the growth is not creating enough jobs and livelihood opportunities. Other thing evident is that while northeast states are often clubbed together, we found, in many cases, wide differences; for example, Manipur's high poverty rate and Sikkim's prosperity. Some of the economic indices are India's highest, and some are India's lowest.

Today, in the first of a threepart series, we analyse the northeast's economic indicators, such as gross state domestic product (GSDP), unemployment, and population below the poverty line.

Growth driven by services, industry Meghalaya, Tripura and Arunachal Pradesh recorded the highest growth rates in GSDP in 2013-14. Meghalaya's growth in

GSDP of 9.7 percent was equivalent to Bihar, which had a GSDP growth rate of 9.1 percent.

Arunachal Pradesh, with a growth rate in GSDP of 8.9 percent grew faster than Gujarat, which reported 8.7 percent.

The share of the industrial sector for all eight states has increased while the share of agriculture and allied activities has declined.

Unemployment in urban areas across all north-eastern states is higher than rural areas, and is in line with the national pattern. "The growth in manufacturing has not been accompanied by a commensurate growth of employment opportunity for the local population," Sumarbin Umdor, professor of economics at NorthEastern Hill University, wrote in The Shillong Times. "Given the lack of job creation in other formal sectors, most of the employment outside agriculture is therefore in the low productivity informal sector, particularly

Nagaland has second highest unemployment rate in urban areas with 23.8 percent in 2011-12 in informal construction, retail trade and transportation."

Tripura recorded the highest unemployment rate in urban areas at 25.2 percent in 2011-12, India's highest jobless rate, followed by Nagaland with 23.8 percent, India's second-highest rate, and Manipur with 7.1 percent.

Meghalaya had India's second-lowest unemployment rate (after Gujarat), with 0.4 percent in rural areas and 2.8 percent in urban areas in 201112. A caveat: Unemployment rates in rural India are always

lower than urban, since they do not account for hidden or partial employment. In general, employment rates do not adequately reflect reality, but only offer an indication.

Poverty unevenly spread: Manipur is poorest; Sikkim richest The northeast has widely varying rates of poverty, which largely reflect unrest and insurgency. While 36.9 percent people live below the poverty line (the ability to spend Rs 1,170 per family per month in urban areas, Rs.1,118 in rural areas) in Manipur, where a cocktail of insurgent groups have crippled the economy, only 8.2 percent of the population is below the poverty line in Sikkim (Rs.1,226 in urban, Rs.930 in rural), where plentiful hydro power has raised incomes, as IndiaSpend has reported.

Meghalaya and Sikkim have seen some of the largest falls in poverty in India.

For instance, the percent-

age of population below the poverty line in Sikkim was 13.1 percent in 2009-10 and fell to 8.2 percent in 2011-12. In comparison, poverty in Bihar and Madhya Pradesh - the large states most successful in cutting poverty - fell from 36.7 percent to 31.7 percent and 37.7 percent to 29.4 percent over the same period.

Similarly, in Meghalaya, the percentage of population below the poverty line was 17.1 percent in 2009-10 and fell to 11.9 percent in 2011-12.

Although the number of people below the poverty line might be lower than the national average, the intensity of poverty in these states is much higher, according to the National Institute of Rural Development (NIRD).

Poverty in the northeast, like the rest of India, is a more rural phenomenon than urban: 11.6 million people of the 12.8 million living below the poverty line are in rural areas. The two

main reasons for poverty are under-developed agriculture and unskilled labour, according to NIRD. To address the region's development challenges, including infrastructure, the Central government created the ministry of development of northeastern region in 2004, allocating it Rs.2,362 crore in 2015-16.

The grants from the centre and their share in central taxes together form 79 percent of their total revenue, according to the Reserve Bank of India.

Some of the grants, like the ones given out by the ministry are influenced by politics as well. For example, from 201011 to 2012-13, Arunachal Pradesh received the highest, with almost 19 percent of the total allocations. Later, when the government wanted to sign the Naga peace accord of 2015, the allocation to Nagaland was increased (to 20 percent) and that of Arunachal Pradesh had come down.

SC recalls notice to Arunachal NE states seek alternative power link between Tripura, Bangladesh Guv; issues new ones to Centre New Delhi, February 1 (PTi): The Supreme Court on Monday conceded its “mistake” and recalled its notice issued to Arunachal Pradesh Governor Jyoti Prasad Rajkhowa in cases arising out of imposition of President’s Rule in the political crisis-hit hill state.

After considering its earlier verdict and the legal position that the Governor enjoys “complete immunity” in court proceedings, a fivejudge Constitutional bench headed by Justice J S Khehar said “that (issuing notice) is our mistake.” The bench made the remark at the outset when Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi pointed out the legal position and referred to a 2006 judgement which had held that Governors cannot be asked to join legal proceedings.

Referring to Rohatgi’s contention that Governors have “complete immunity” under Article 361 of the Constitution, it said, “We consider is just and appropriate to recall the notice issued to Respondent 2 (the Governor).”

The bench, also comprising Justices Dipak

Misra, M B Lokur, P C Ghose and N V Ramana, however, clarified that its order recalling the notice would not “preclude” the Arunachal Governor from filing or putting forth his views before it.

It also said that earlier senior advocate Satpal Jain, appearing for the Governor, had undertaken, in pursuance of court’s direction, to file materials leading to recommendationof President’s Rule.

The Attorney General, during the hearing, said either the leaders including Rajesh Tacho and Nabam Rebia agree to delete the name of the Governor from their respective pleas or he would cite the legal position and the case law on the issue.

“We can recall the notice, if we have committed the mistake,” the bench said.

“Having given a thoughtful consideration to the issue in hand, we are inclined to recall the notice. That, however, would not preclude the Governor from filing or putting forth his views before it,” the bench said. It, meanwhile, issued notice to the Centre on fresh pleas of for-

mer Chief Minister Nabam Tuki and Congress leader Bamang Felix against imposition of President’s Rule.

Initially, the bench expressed reluctance in issuing the notice, saying the issues raised in fresh pleas were similar.

Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Tuki, said that certain allegations have been made against the former Chief Minister and hence a fresh plea has been filed.

Earlier, the Centre had justified the imposition of President’s Rule saying there was “complete breakdown” of governance and law and order in the state where the Governor and his family apprehended “grave danger to their lives”.

The Ministry of Home Affairs, in the affidavit, alleged that the Chief Minister and Speaker Nabam Rebia have been playing “communal politics” against the Governor who in his reports had recommended imposition of President’s Rule by elaborating sequence of events leading the Congress government becoming a minority.

Mysterious disease hits 200 villagers in Manipur imPhal, February 1 (iaNS): At least 200 people, among them women and children, from a village in Manipur have been hospitalised with a mysterious disease, officials said on Monday.

The villagers from Lilong Chingjao in Thoubal district have been admitted to the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences, J.N. Institute of Medical Sciences, and other private hospitals in Imphal. The patients are suffering from high fever and vomiting, besides loose motions, doctors said.

Though the condition of some of them is said to be serious, there has been no death so far. Doctors told IANS that the

disease will have to be identified properly, but declined to speak further.

Many patients were seen lying on the floors, in the corridors and near the wards, because of non-availability of beds in the government hospitals. Hospital sources said everything possible was being done to give relief to these patients.

Some patients told IANS that the health department needs to do something on a war-footing to contain the outbreak of the disease. Health Minister Phungzathang Tonsing was informed about the disease, and is said to be in constant touch with health officials over the issue.

Tarun Gogoi presents interim budget in poll-bound Assam GuwahaTi, Febraury 1 (PTi): Assam Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi today presented a Rs 33,687.43 crore interim Budget for the first six months of 201617 financial year urging the Centre for more support to tide over the state's financial crisis.

"To defray the obligatory and other necessary expenses, I seek Vote-onAccount on the demand for grants for an aggregate amount of Rs 33,68,743.21 lakh for the period from 1st of April, 2016 to 30th September, 2016," Gogoi said during his presentation speech in the assembly.

Gogoi, who is also the Finance Minister, presented the interim Budget as the five-year term of his government will expire on May 15 and Assembly polls are due in the coming few months.

He said the development of the state must be facilitated by the Central government "in the true spirit of cooperative federalism".

"We hope and expect that our state will get the much needed support from the Central government in this regard," Gogoi said.

He, however, criticised the Centre saying there has been a fund crisis as a result of abrupt change in policy decisions initiated by the present NDA government in 2014, including abolition of the Planning Commission.

"Although Planning Commission has been replaced by NITI Aayog, which is stated to be a purely advisory body, it has failed to give clear cut guidelines to the states for preparing it's Annual Plan.

As a result, special category states like Assam have been facing serious problem of plan fund crisis," he said.

Gogoi also said less budgetary provision of some central schemes and changing of funding pattern in some schemes to a higher level of state share from 90:10 earlier have led to fund crunch.

The Chief Minister informed that the provisional collection of sales tax till December 2015 stood at Rs 6,190.74 crore as against Rs 5,783.87 crore in the same period last fiscal. "VAT collection of the department during 2014-15 was Rs 6,859.24 crore as against Rs 6,288.54 crore during 201314 showing an increase of Rs 570.70 crore," he added.

In the current fiscal up to November, the excise collection stood at Rs 463.66 crore, in addition to Rs 275.45 crore collected as liquor VAT, a rise of 13.84 per cent over the same period last fiscal.

Gogoi, while speaking to reporters aftrer the assembly also said that the BJP and some other parties are trying to incite communal tension in the state ahead of the Assembly polls. “The state government is fully prepared and we will not allow any communal disturbance to occur.” Gogoi said.

aGarTala, February 1 (TNN): The power ministers of NE states have unanimously urged the Centre to set up an alternative transmission line between Tripura and West Bengal via Bangladesh to strengthen inter-regional transmission network.

Tripura power minister Manik Dey told the media on Sunday that members of the northeast regional power committee (NERPC) who held a meeting in Guwahati on Saturday, has written to the ministry for an alternative transmission network for the region.

"It will not only establish connectivity with the national grid to provide upgraded connectivity in the transmission system but will also lessen the connection length of 500km.

The region is now connected with Bongaigoan grid

passing through the high terrain and forest land. The alternative line, up to West Bengal via Bangladesh, through plain land will help the region have stable and reliable grid connection," Dey said.

The NERPC contemplated that erection of a transmission line through Bangladesh will further boost friendly relations with Bangladesh and offer them some benefit in transmission of power from the high-voltage double circuit line of India in its territory.

The Tripura government has demanded an immediate alternative to the US dollar payment for gas purchase by the power generating companies and not to allow any further increase in the gas prices till further modifications by the Centre.

"We use domestic gas that belongs to India, but suddenly in 2010 the then government introduced payment in dollar to natural gas exploration companies like ONGC and GAIL.

It is not imported gas that we use, so the payment must be necessarily made in Indian currency only," Dey argued.

He, however, stated that distribution utilities

were under the burden of accumulated outstanding dues to central public sector undertakings and other power generating companies because of continuous hike in power tariff.

TRANSFORMATION CRUSADE Theme: “ Arise and Shine” PHEK

Date Venue Organised by

: 4 – 7 Feb 2016 : Phek Town Local Ground : Phek Town Churches Pastor Fellowship

Time

: Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday

th

th

Anointed Speakers

: Gospel Service 5 Pm : Gospel Service 10 Am & 4 Pm (1 Pm session) : Gospel Service 10 Am & 4 Pm (1 Pm session) : Gospel Service 10 Am & 4 Pm : (1) Rev. Zotuo Kiewhuo (2) Lect. Mezhiisevi (3) Ps. Rokopra.

“Come with faith and receive the Blessings of Deliverance, Healing & Confirmation Message” KOHIMA

PAYING GUEST

Date Time

: 24 Feb. – 6 March 2016 : Every Evening 4 : 30 Pm th

th

Venue Organised by

: Kohima Local Ground : Transformation team.

Opportunity for working men & women : Single/Double rooms with attached bathrooms : Geysers : Healthy food (Veg/Non-veg) : Laundry : Easy accessibility for bus & taxis : Power back-up : Security & safe environment : Cable Television Services Located at : Old Ministers Hill Kohima Contact No. : 8257995254 / 9612157217 Facilities

FELICITATION With immense pride and profound gratitude, The Dimapur Asetkong Telongjem (DAT) would like to convey our heartiest congratulation to Smti. Er.Moanaro Longkumer, E.E PWD (R&B) Noklak Division, W/o Mr.T. Mar Pongener,Treasurer (DAT) for her outstanding achievement as recipient of Governor’s Gold Medal on 26th January 2016 Republic Day. DAT wish her success in all her future endeavor.

Sd/T. Lanu Imchen President DAT

Sd/Talitemsu Secretary DAT

Lecture by rev. chingmak chang On

‘A people’s approach to development’ Development of Nagaland State has been an uphill task. Various policies and programs of the Government towards uplifting the populace have not engendered a desired outcome. Increasingly, people’s initiatives are going the extra mile in bringing sustainable development.

Rev. Chingmak Chang has been at the forefront of such initiatives in East Nagaland. In this context, he will talk about Nagaland State’s Communitisation Act, initiated as a unique partnership between the Government and communities to improve public service delivery. Has the outcome been desirable? If not, did the Government fail, or the community failed communitisation?

Followed by a short documentary film on his work, Rev. Chang will put the policy under scrutiny incorporating various initiatives he has undertaken.

Date : Wednesday, February 3, 2016 Time : 3:00pm Venue : DABA Elim Conference Hall, Duncan Bosti, Dimapur Limited Seats. Those interested to participate, kindly send us your name and phone number to:

 morung@gmail.com (OR)  +91 (3862) 248854 The Morung Lectures is an initiative of The Morung for Indigenous Affairs & Just Peace and The Morung Express

4

TuesDAY 02•02•2016

Business

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

unfree’ India improves Asia’s factories parched for demand, need stimulus ‘Mostly its economic freedom score

emerging market demand.

“Central banks recognise these risks, and experience shows that they respond quickly to weakness in their industrial sectors, even when it isn’t a precursor to recession.” wrote Bruce Kasman, head of economic research at JPMorgan.

“Based on past experience, JPMorgan suspected the continued stagnation of manufacturing could

result in a full percentage point of monetary easing in one form or other.”

The official version of China’s PMI survey for manufacturing slipped to 49.4 in January, from 49.7 the month before and short of forecasts of 49.6.

While the miss was minor, the services index also disappointed by easing to 53.5 and challenged hopes consumption would take over from industry as

the driving force for the world’s second-largest economy.

A private survey, the Caixin/Markit China Manufacturing PMI, underscored the trend by showing factory activity shrinking for the 11th consecutive month.

MORE DEMAND REQUIRED The news was relatively brighter in Japan where its

companies traditionally propping up the economy.

The story was much the same for another electronics hub, Taiwan, where factory growth slowed amid lacklustre demand.

Steep falls in selling prices and input costs also underlined the risks of deflation across the region, and the need for yet more stimulus.

“Shipments being this weak means a recovery in consumption is urgently needed. If you look at the economy as a whole, this might boost the need for policy easing,” said Lee Sang-jae, chief economist at Eugene Investment & Securities.

A raft of European PMIs due later Monday are expected to show at least a modicum of growth with the index for the euro zone as a whole seen holding at 52.3.

The influential U.S. reading from the Institute of Supply Management was forecast to stay at a sub par 48.0, though there could be some upside risk given a surprisingly strong outcome from the Chicago region last week.

Jet Airways to offer wireless Battery making firms wants government in-flight entertainment, to prevent poor quality imports from China February hazards and also damage imported into the country ing of batteries by China and Internet on Boeing 737s KolKata, 1 (agencies): Domes- equipment. The process won’t get cleared by the Vietnam following represenhas been initiated though the formal decision is yet to happen,” Subhomoy Saha, finance director, Eveready Industries told dna.

Bureau of Indian Standards, or BIS, under consumer affairs and public distribution ministry comes out with more than 300 new standards a year, some of which are to be followed by manufacturers compulsorily while most, like those for dry cell batteries, are non-mandatory.

“If standards are made mandatory, batteries being

_

LEISURE

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

SUDOKU Game Number # 3478

customs authorities unless such products bears certification for fulfilling those parameters,” he said.

The move by the As-

sociation of Indian Dry Cell Manufacturers seeking non-tariff barriers to cheap imports comes after an earlier initiative by the industry body to make the commerce ministry start investigation into possible dumping by China.

The Directorate General of Anti-Dumping and Allied Duties in October initiated the probe into alleged dump-

tation by the association.

Product under consideration for the purpose of investigation is AA-size dry cell batteries, also called zinc carbon pencil batteries. Rechargeable batteries, alkaline batteries, AAA batteries, D-size and C-size batteries are beyond the scope of the present investigation.

“Once the anti-dumping duties are imposed and BIS norms are made mandatory, we would see growth in battery sales in coming days,” Amritanshu Khaitan, managing director of Eveready, said.

Eveready in the third quarter saw flattish sales of Rs 340 crore mainly due to dumping and muted demand growth though bottomline improved by 11% at Rs 17 cr due to cost cuts and lower commodity prices.

DAILY CROSS WORD

CROSSWORD # 3490

Answer Number # 3477

PRE-SC GENESIS PRE-SCHOOL H SIS DIPHUPAR ‘B’ 5th MILE, DIMAPUR E O

N (Near Chakhesang Baptist Church)

L

tic battery firms including Eveready have asked the government to make domestic quality standards mandatory for imports to prevent cheap quality products flooding the market.

Dry battery makers, including Eveready, Indo National and Panasonic, have successfully made a case before the government to explore the option of making domestic quality standards compulsory for imports to prevent cheap poor quality imports from China entering Indian market.

“While there is now BIS standard for dry cell batteries, the industry has approached the government with a plea to make those standards mandatory so that Indian market is not flooded by cheap low quality products that pose health

Washington, February 1 (ians): With an improvement of 1.6 points in its overall score, India was ranked 123rd in 2016 Index of Economic Freedom released by conservative US think tank Heritage Foundation here Monday. Though still rated as “mostly unfree”, India with a score of 56.2 out of 100 was among 32 countries which achieved their highest economic freedom scores ever in the 2016 Index. India scored its best scores on government spending (78.1), fiscal freedom (77.1), monetary freedom (72.8) and trade freedom (71.0). But on freedom from corruption India scored 38, while it was rated 40 on financial freedom, 35 on investment freedom and 55 on property rights.

With the exception of India, progress among the other BRICS nations - Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa - has stalled, according to the index which analyzes economic policy developments related to economic freedom in 186 economies. Russia plunged 10 places in the rankings to 153rd, with its score deteriorating by 1.5 points. The rankings of South Africa, Brazil, and China declined to 80th, 122nd, and 144th, respectively.

According to the Index which rates countries as “free” (scores above 80), “mostly free” (70-80), “moderately free” (60-70), “mostly unfree” (50-60) and “repressed” (below 50), global economic freedom has advanced for the fourth year in a row. The US continues to be mired in the ranks of the “mostly free,” the second-tier economic freedom category into which the US dropped in 2010. Worse, with scores in labour freedom, business freedom, and fiscal freedom notably declining, the economic freedom of the US plunged 0.8 point to 75.4, matching its lowest score ever As many as 97 countries, the majority of which are less developed, gained greater economic freedom over the past year. The global average economic freedom score of 60.7 is the highest recorded in the 22-year history of the Index.

O

MuMbai, February 1 (agencies): Jet Airways said today that it will offer wireless streaming of in-flight entertainment on its Boeing 737 planes from second quarter of 2016.

Jet Airways becomes the second Indian carrier to offer in-flight entertainment streaming service after Vistara, which will equip its aircraft for the service beginning February. Currently, Vistara offers its business class passengers customised tablets with selected pre-loaded entertainment content.

Jet Airways said it further plans to upgrade from a streaming service to a full broadband satellite connectivity in the future, allowing guests to enjoy services such as internet surfing, e-mail, social media, connecting flight information, instant messaging, real time travel services and destination deals. The full broadband satellite connectivity will be introduced subject to regulatory approvals.

Jet Airways has developed the new system in collaboration with Global Eagle Entertainment Inc, which specialises in media content, technology and connectivity solutions to the travel industry. Once the service is fully rolled out, passengers will be able to enjoy a high quality library of audio/video content, a state-of-the-art 3D flight tracker, interactive games, and have access to a wide range of destination information.

1. 2016 Index of Economic Freedom: In 2016 Index of Economic Freedom, India was ranked 123rd after having logged an improvement of 1.6 points in its overall score - the index was released by conservative US think tank Heritage Foundation in Washington on Monday. (REUTERS Photo)

E

A view inside a closed brick factory building is seen on the outskirts of Beijing on January 18. (REUTERS Photo

factory barometer slipped only a tick to 52.3 in January as a pick up in exports helped keep activity expanding.

Yet that export performance relied on the yen staying weak, hinting at another reason the BOJ acted so boldly when easing policy last week.

India also recorded an unexpected return to growth as its erratic PMI jumped to a four-month high of 51.1 in January, after slumping to a 28-month low of 49.1 in December.

Other countries in the region were not so fortunate. South Korea’s manufacturing index eased into contractionary territory in January at 49.5, while the country’s exports suffered the sharpest annual fall since August 2009.

China is South Korea’s largest export market, taking about one-quarter of shipments, followed by the United States and the European Union.

Smartphones, cars, semiconductors and flat-screen displays all notched falls in January, boding ill for bellwether

G

syDney, February 1 (reuters): January updates on Asia’s mammoth factory sector released on Monday showed the new year began much as the old one ended - with too much capacity chasing too little demand.

China was again the epicentre of disappointment as its official measure of manufacturing fell to the lowest since mid-2012, but the weakness also encompassed such bellwethers of high-tech trade as South Korea and Taiwan.

The dearth of demand and resulting downward pressure on inflation was why the Bank of Japan felt moved enough to cut interest rates below zero last week, and why many more were likely to ease further this year.

The data are a taster for European and United States surveys later in the day, with growth in manufacturing activity likely static in the euro zone and contracting across the Atlantic.

“One risk is that developed world businesses pull back in the face of rising currencies, weak productivity, and sub-par

“The beginningof of learning” “The Beginning Learning”

Admission Going On for Play Group and Nursery (2016) Contact: 9862062846

DIMAPUR Civil Hospital:

STD CODE: 03862

Metro Hospital: Faith Hospital:

227930, 231081 228846

Shamrock Hospital

228254

Zion Hospital:

231864, 224117, 227337

Police Control Room

228400

Police Traffic Control

232106

East Police Station West Police Station

227607 232181

CIHSR (Referral Hospital)

242555/ 242533

Dimapur hospital

224041, 248011

Apollo Hospital Info Centre:

230695/ 9402435652

Railway:

131/228404

Indian Airlines

229366

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KOHIMA

O GReek

GREECE NOROMANS ATHENA POSEIDON ZEUS HERA DIONYSUS HADES HESTIA HEPHAESTUS APHRODITE ARES HERMES APOLLO ARTEMIS MUSE FATES ICHOR DEMIGOD HALFBLOOD GOD GODDESS CHAOS TITAN TITANESS CYCLOPS POWER HERO IMMORTALITY PRIMORDIAL FIGHT TRAIN SWORD

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K V F P H D F D F A S A J D J K Z R J N

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O W F Z G P Z N F J G U I J K N U X T N

G N H E R A L E S A S X J P O G A Q F F

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V D V U R Q U V A P D P N O R O M A N S

G Z P S K D L X A T E S U S Y N O I D T

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J I Z U S O A H C I T S S E D D O G U Y

L H G T R A I N B T I Z Z I J A P A B X

E C D S F V D K I A D D Q D E M I G O D

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M U S E A C R V M N O H Q O N B H R W O

S E D A H Y O P M E R S H N W O R E H O

A R I H R C M R O S H W E K J I A E I L

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H E R M E S O L L S E R A P O L L O M A

T W F P V N A T I T I A N E F H S E Y H

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

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A O C N A N E H T A V D B Z I Q O Q Y R

W P K L X U Y P Y O P I K P A O I I U O

U G P J T J G O Y L E Y G N O Q G S Y X

R M N E B X Y O F U I J I Z Q B K X X P

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

ACROSS

1. Throb 5. Wanes 9. Cleave 13. At what time 14. Broods 16. Brother of Jacob 17. French for “Names” 18. Electronic letters 19. Vipers 20. Pig 22. Most astute 24. Alike 26. Water vapor 27. A mild powdered seasoning 30. A lightweight cord 33. Disciple 35. Strict 37. Foot digit 38. Units of force 41. Chief Executive Officer 42. A jet of vapor 45. Offered 48. Renter 51. Modern sing-along 52. Ancient Greek marketplace 54. Shocked reaction 55. Retaliations 59. Flora and fauna

DOWN

1. . Barley beards 2. Grub 3. Half of a sphere 4. Trap 5. East southeast 6. Backsides 7. Feelings of boredom 8. Women’s garments 9. Allow in again 10. Being 11. Short sleeps 12. Powdery dirt 15. Mixture of rain and snow 21. Arab chieftain 23. Armed conflicts 25. Barely managed 27. Taps 28. Take as one’s own 29. One or more 31. Cemetery

32. Hellenic language 34. Explosive 36. Connecting point 39. Startled cry 40. Catch 43. Lawlessness 44. A sharply directional antenna 46. Blah 47. Least difficult 49. Snouts 50. Hypnotic state 53. Birch relative 55. Steals 56. French for “State” 57. Falafel bread 58. Male offspring 60. Chat 61. Picnic insects 64. Damp Ans to CrossWord 3489

DIMAPUR: 03862-232201/ 101 (O) 9856156876 (OC) CHUMUKEDIMA: 7085982102 (O) 8732810051 (OC)

MOKOKCHUNG: 0369-2226225/ 101 (O) 8415830232 (OC) PHEK: 8414853765 (O) 8413822476(OC) ZUNHEBOTO: 03867-280304/ 101 (O) 9436422730 (OC) TUENSANG: 8414853766 (O) 9856163601 (OC)

KIPHIRE: 8414853767 (O) 9436261577 (OC) PEREN: 7085189932 (O) 9856311205 (OC) LONGLENG: 7085924113 (O) 9862414264 (OC)

Toll free No. 1098 childline

WE4WOMEN HELPLINE 08822911011

MOKOKCHUNG:

KOHIMA NORTH: 7085924114 (O)

MON: 03869-251222/ 101 (O) 9862130954 (OC)

CHILD WELFARE COMMITTEE 62. Ear-related 63. Provide with a permanent fund 65. Dash 66. Shower alternative 67. Display 68. Sediment 69. Remain 70. At one time (archaic) 71. Sounds of disapproval

0370-2222952/ 101 (O) 9402003086 (OC)

WOKHA: 03860242215/101 (O) 8974322879 (OC)

Chumukedima Fire 282777 Brigade Nikos Hospital and 232032, 231031 Research Centre

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FIRE STATIONS

232224; EmergencySCHOOL PROSPECTUS KOHIMA SOUTH: 229529, 229474

STD CODE: 0369

Police Station 1:

2226241

Police Station 2 :

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 NOTES

222246 222491

BUY(Rs)

SELL(Rs)

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

66.23 94.33 8.24 46.72 46.41 47.2 54.32

69.21 98.90 9.17 49.00 48.68 49.52 57.38

Euro

71.75

75.22

Thai Baht Korean Won New Zealand Dollar Chinese Yuan

1.80

2.00

0.0532

0.0593

42.81

44.92

9.71

10.81

TuesdAY 02•02•2016

NAGALAND

cPO hopes to bring out vision statement for chakhesangs

BJP workers challenged to take the party forward

Kohima, February 1 (mexN): A state level meeting of BJP Nagaland was held at Hotel Japfü in Kohima on January 31. The meeting was scheduled to coincide with the tour programme of State Prabhari Farooq Khan; however, he could not attend due to other important developments in Delhi, informed a press release from BJP Nagaland.

The meeting was held as official introduction of the new State party president Visasolie Lhoungu to the state party members and the laying out of the party principles and programmes in the term ahead.

Lhoungu welcomed the party members from all corners of the State who were in attendance and thanked the senior party leaders and the memNew team of CPO with present Chakhesang legislators, ex-ministers/ legislators and other leaders during the con- bers for their confidence reposed in sultative meeting in Kohima on February 1. (Morung Photo)

Kohima, February 1 (mexN): The newly inducted team of Chakhesang Public Organization (CPO) today held a consultative meeting with the present Chakhesang legislators, ex-ministers/ legislators, ex-CPO presidents, frontal organizations, political parties, churches and intellectuals of the Chakhesang community here at Cimorb Hotel.

This meeting was convened to build better ties among the Chakhesang elders and intellectuals and to collectively work for the common interest of the Chakhesang community.

CPO president Kekhwengulo Lea expressed desire of the present team to set a vision of 75 or 100 years for

the Chakhesang tribe and sought the cooperation and support of each and every individual to make it happen.

He told the meeting that the CPO will be undertaking a village tour from March 14 to gather a concrete data on the status of literacy, economy and other fields. This will be incorporated in the vision statement of the Chakhesang tribe.

He also said the CPO will convene a meeting with the frontal organizations on March 10 to streamline the mushrooming clubs/ organizations within the Chakhesang jurisdiction.

Further, he said the CPO will also soon call for a thorough discussion on other matters/ issues pertaining to

the interest and welfare of the Chakhesang community. In this, he sought active participation and constructive suggestions from the intellectuals.

Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) speaker Chotisuh Sazo, Parliamentary Secretary for Higher & Technical Education Deo Nukhu, Nagaland Bee-keeping & Honey Mission Chairman Pusazo Luruo, former ministers Thenucho, N. Theyo, Zhovehü Lohe and Zachilhu Vadeo and several other Chakhesang leaders shared their opinions on various matters/ issues for the welfare and progress of the Chakhesang community.

The meeting was chaired by CPO vice president Ariyi Nienu.

him to be the State president.

The president laid out the statewide party organisational programmes and directed all the district presidents to keep with the schedules and programmes of the party. He exhorted the party members to continue to work hard for the continuous development of the party according to their talents.

Dr. M Chuba Ao, the outgoing State president thanked the party workers who were with him throughout his tenures and shared his experiences and advices for the uplift of the party through challenging situations.

R. Sopu Angami, senior leader, and Ashok Chakra urged the party men to put continuous efforts to take the party further under the new leader. He advised on how the party has

to tackle various obstacles and challenges.

Vihoshe Sumi, senior leader, elucidated the various aspects of the party organization and functioning, the areas that need to be remedied and the aspects that need to be strengthened to take the party to 2018.

Prashant Arora, General Secretary (Org), also spoke in length on the party organizational matters. He directed all the district presidents to submit the requisite details of the newly elected district officials at the earliest. He also detailed on the various schemes initiated by the BJP central government to uplift the socially and economically downtrodden and asked the party members to help others and themselves to avail of the various programmes.

NVD observed in Longleng, Peren Kiphire DPDB LoNgLeNg, February 1 (mexN): Longleng celebrated National Voters’ Day (NVD) on January 25, which was chaired

by Mongo Khiamniungan. Renben Mozhui, AEO, Longleng elaborated on the importance of NVD, while PPC President Leisha Phom encouraged for free and fair election and the concept of one man one vote. Representatives from various political parties stressed on the importance of enrolment. DC & DEO Longleng, Y. Denngan Avennoho Phom, who was the chief guest, congratulated the new voters.

Best BLOs were also felicitated on the day.

In Peren, the 6th National Voters’

Day was observed at DC conference hall with Addl. Deputy Commissioner & ERO, Peren, S Tainiu, as special guest. In his keynote address, Tsidi Hairang, EAC Peren, reminded the need to clean up the electoral roll as a follow up to NERPAP programme and Special Revision which was held in 2015. Various political parties, NGOs, college and school students, and Booth Level Officers from the district attended the programme, a release received here stated. Various awards for winners in district level essay competition, painting competition and Best BLOs for 2015 were given away during the occasion, it added.

meet on Feb 5

Kiphire, February 1 (mexN): The District Planning & Development Board (DPDB) meeting of Kiphire for the month of February has been scheduled for February 5, 10:00 am at DC's conference hall.

Therefore, all the DPDB members have been requested to attend the meeting without fail.

healthy lifestyle camp held medZiphema, February 1 (mexN): NCD Cell of District Hospital, Dimapur, under the Department of Health & Family Welfare, and sponsored by the National Health Mission conducted a medical camp on January 29 at CHC Medziphema under the theme “Healthy Lifestyle Camp.” The camp, for adults aged 15 years and above, provided counseling on healthy lifestyles besides providing screening for diabetes, hyperten-

sion and other lifestyle related physical ailments.

A team from National Tobacco Control Programme, Dimapur, screened the level of toxic carbon monoxide content in the lungs of smokers and followed it up with counseling. Altogether, 198 patients availed of the various health schemes provided. Free medicines for diabetes and hypertension were also distributed during the day.

Parliamentary Secretary for Youth Resources & Sports, Music Task Force & State Lotteries Khriehu Liezietsu and others with the recipients of the scholarship under LADF under 10th Northern Angami- I Assembly Constituency. The minister gave away the scholarship amount of Rs. 5000 each to the students on February 1 in Kohima. (Morung Photo)

Orientation programme held for Panel Lawyers, PLVs ZuNheboto, February 1 (mexN): Zunheboto District Legal Services Authority (ZDLSA) organized an orientation programme for Panel Lawyers and Para Legal Volunteers (PLVs) of Legal Aid Centres of Zunheboto district on January 30 with Nino Iralu, Member Secretary, Nagaland State Legal Services Authority (NSLSA) & Special Judge, TDP Vigilance Commission, Kohima as the keynote speaker-cum-resource person.

In her welcome address, Khesheli Chishi, District & Sessions Judge and Chairperson ZDLSA apprised the participants on the theme and purpose of the orientation programme. She lauded the

participation of the stakeholders - district administration, police, jails and local legal fraternity - for their continued effort in enhancing the image of the justice delivery system in the district, a press release from ZDLSA secretary Atoka Achumi informed.

The resource person spoke on the primary mandate of the Legal Services Authorities (LSAs) which is to act as a bridge between the citizens and the government by educating the general public of the legal benefits and welfare entitlements available to them. The speaker reiterated that the role of LSAs in the districts is not to usurp the role of the implementing agen-

cies of the State, but to bring ordinary citizens to the doorstep of their service providers, namely the departments concerned.

Iralu also launched seven new schemes of NALSA pertaining to the subject of legal services to victims of trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation, legal services to workers in the unorganized sector, child friendly legal services to children and their protection, legal services to mentally ill and mentally disabled person, legal services to victims of drug abuse and eradication of drug menace. Further, schemes on the effective implementation of poverty alleviation programmes and protection and enforcement of

ment. His service rendered as an expert in the department will always be remembered as a legacy, she added, wishing Bendangyanger and his family happy retired life.

Meanwhile, Bendangyanger in his farewell speech expressed happiness and thanked God and the department for giving their fullest support and co-operation. He acknowledged that he gained many good experiences and

learned things while in the department.

The retiring director also stated that the success of the departmental programmes requires proper thoughts and planning. He encouraged the department officers and staff to work hard continuously in the department for the benefit of the farming community and the society in general.

Short speech on behalf of the outpost officers was delivered by Kivikhu Achumi, District Agriculture Officer, Mon. Voluntary speeches were delivered by Helie, JDA, N. Wetsah, JDA, Principal IETC, G. Ikuto Zhimomi, JDA, Thungjamo, JDA, Peter Yanthan, DAO, Wokha, Er. Achakbou, Dr. Akashe KVKs, Sosangmar, DDA, Bendanglila, DDA.

birthDay greetingS Dear Akaina & Nzibeuna Many many happy returns of the day.

Happy Birthday God bless. Lucky two to celebrate birthday on the same day.

With Love & Prayer Your Loving Brother Mireuyi Herie

Department of Fisheries inaugurated two Fish Kiosk funded under NABARD (RIDF-XX) at Chumoukedima Town and Jalukie Town respectively on January 30, 2016. The department officials were led by Zenohol Angami, Director and accompanied by Mhabemo Yanthan, Addl. Secretary, L Khuyivi Sema, Asst Engineer, and Rongsenkumzuk, Asst. Director. Seen here are department officials at the Fish Kiosk in Jalukie Town.

Public SPace

Agri department bids farewell to director Kohima, February 1 (mexN): Department of Agriculture organized a farewell programme in honour of its retiring Director, Bendangyanger on January 30.

D. Suokhrie, Director of Agriculture, expressed happiness and congratulated Bendangyanger for successful completion of 35 years of service in the department. He lauded him for his valuable contribution at various levels during his entire career.

A press release from the Directorate of Agriculture further informed that Rongsenienla, Additional Director, Agriculture, maintained that completing 35 years of service, serving in various capacities, and reaching the pinnacle in good and sound health is a big achieve-

tribal rights were also introduced to the participants and launched.

The release mentioned that ZDLSA has set up 10 Village Legal Care & Support Centres at NathaNew village, Naghuto-Old village, Lita-New village, Kilo-New village, Surumi village, Khukiye-Lukhai village, Ghuvishe village, Shichimi village, Lukikhe village, and Satoi village covering all the administrative sub-divisions in the district. In addition, a Legal Aid Clinic at District Jail, Zunheboto and a Combined Front Office of the ZDLSA located in the first floor of the District Court building caters to the legal aid requirements of the litigating public.

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Dimapur Peace Declaration 2016

e 210 persons from 16 states of India, who are committed to promote peace, participated in the Second National Peace Convention held at Hotel Acacia, Dimapur, Nagaland from January 30 to February 01, 2016. The convention was organized by National Peace Movement in collaboration with Rotary International Dist. 3040 & 3240, NEISSR, Peace Channel, Universal Solidarity Movement and other NGOs. Participation of 36 persons who had taken part in the First National Peace Convention at Indore added richness to the Second National Peace Convention. For those who came from outside the North Eastern States, it was a golden opportunity to understand the reality of the region, particularly Nagaland.

During the three days of the convention, we listened to the sharing by many renowned persons from various fields on different dimensions of peace. They include Tushar Gandhi; Apok Jamir; Rtn. Chandu Kumar Agarwal; Dr. James Thoppil; Fr. Varghese Alengadan; Dr. CP Anto; Dr. Paul B Mesquita; Niketu Iralu; Dr. Wati Aier; PV Rajgopal; Anuradha Shankar, IPS; Dr. Jill Carr-Harris; Prof. Lanunungsang Ao; Khekiye K Sema IAS (Rtd); Dr. Aküm Longchari; Tiamerenla Monalisa Changkija; Bishop Chacko Thottumarickal; Dr. Jacob Kani; Dr. Kathryn Johnson Bueno De Mes-

quita; K J Alphonse, IAS (Rtd); Kishor Dass; Sr. Bernardo D’ Souza; Jacob Peenikaparambil; and Jeffery C Pereira.

We reflected and discussed on peace from different perspective such as: * Mahatma Gandhi as an Apostle of Peace and Non-violence * Peace building in International Perspective * Peace and Conflict Resolution in the context of North East India * Human Development and Promotion of Peace * The correlation between Rights and responsibilities from Gandhian Perspective * Economic Empowerment and Justice to the Marginalized * Relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in the Socio Political Scenario of India * Role of Media in Peace Building * Sharing by individuals and organizations involved in peace building As a result of listening, reflecting and discussing, we are confirmed in our conviction that peace building is urgent need and we have resolved: 1. To create awareness about the contribution of Mahatma Gandhi to peace, forgiveness and harmony by organizing workshops and seminars especially in schools and educational institutions, promoting reading the writings of Gandhiji and about Gandhiji and showing

movies and documentaries on Gandhiji.

2. To be proactive, in the situations of conflicts by taking initiative for bringing the conflicting groups for dialogue and reconciliation.

3. To organize peace clubs among the students and youth and promote Peace Movements like Universal Solidarity Movement, Peace Channel in order to prevent conflicts.

4. To promote the Indian ethos of pluralism by celebrating the festivals of different religions, encouraging learning the basics of all religions and cultures, organizing inter-faith dialogues and inter-religious prayers, promoting cultural exchanges and promoting the values of the Indian Constitution as enshrined in the preamble.

5. To contribute a share of our time and money to support the needy and the common good of the society and to educate the students and youth about the need for paying back to the society by contributing to the common good.

6. To respond to the negative news in the media by writing letter to the editor and articles in the newspapers and magazines.

7. To appeal the Central government and the various ethnic groups of the North Eastern Region to enter into dialogue by avoiding force and violence to

resolve the problems. The Central Government may abolish the Armed Forces Special Power Act. 8. To request the Central and State Government to involve the local self government, community based organizations and social activist in the process of economic planning in view of making development inclusive so that the poor and marginalized will equally get the benefits of economic growth. The government may increase the allocation for providing quality education to all, especially the poor through the government schools and skill training to the youth.

9. To appeal to the Education Department of the Central and State Government to make nonviolence and forgiveness a components of all subjects.

10. To appeal to the media to highlight the positive and proactive actions taking place in the society and to minimize the reporting on crime and violence in the society. The colleges of journalism shall impart value based training in journalism.

We commit ourselves to implement these resolutions as a mark of respect to the Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi and our commitment to become promoters and builders of peace.

Dimapur National Peace Convention 2016

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

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TuesDAY 02•02•2016

IN FOCUS The Power of Truth

The Morung Express volume Xi issue 30

The Dream Keepers The search for just peace is about new life; it is about creativity and originality … Peace is not a single vision; it is a way of life

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he need to evolve realistic and reflective praxis to transform situations of violence, underdevelopment and injustice is an imperative need as peoples’ struggles and destinies are interrelated. However, any initiative will turn void if the histories and stories of the people are not fully taken into consideration. Part of transformative change is recognizing the truth and learning to listen to the aspirations and desired collective will of the people.

Perceptions, attitudes and behavior in addressing questions of justice and peace, and the struggle for regaining their humanity have invariably been shaped by a people’s capacity to be self-determining. In this process it is essential to confront that history that has caused the wounds and to address the deeper root causes of conflicts that are responsible for so much of today’s crisis. We can no longer follow a paradigm that only seeks to find solutions to symptoms. Hence, Peace must be built from within the culture and from within the innate structures of the people.

It is the dynamism of a people’s capacity to be self-determining that enables and empowers them to balance the diverse aspects of their beings, and to achieve peaceful coexistence based on mutual respect and understanding. The search for just peace is about new life; it is about creativity and originality that brings to public expression the yearnings and aspirations that have been denied and suppressed for so long. It must begin by enabling a collective and hopeful imagination a space of its own. In reality, there is no road that leads to peace, for Peace itself is the road.

Nagas need to make that road by walking together with the will to engage and transform all forms of injustices that destroy human dignity. Thus, it involves empowering people to regain their humanity and ownership to be self-determining entities. Peace, therefore, necessitates the transformation of all unjust systems to ensure that the injustices are not committed again. Peace is not a single vision; it is a way of life.

Nagas need to encourage the evolution of a natural praxis based on the idea that the freedom of one is the freedom of the other; because when one is unfree, no one can claim to be free.

lEfT wiNg |

Marian Wright Edelman CommonDreams

Hungry Children in Rich America

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arah is three years old. She and her six-year-old brother, Bryce, are inseparable except when it’s time for him to visit the summer food program that provides meals at a school near his Ohio home for children who otherwise would go hungry.

Sarah’s too young to make the trip. One morning after Bryce had his fill of food for the day he made a detour before heading home.

He walked to the trash cans and began rummaging through food others threw away. Winnie Brewer, the Food Services Supervisor in Marion City Schools, noticed the little boy and tapped him on the shoulder to ask why he was sifting through the garbage. “My little sister,” he explained. “She’s hungry.” Bringing her leftover food was the only way he knew to help.

“We run into a lot of situations where kids will come and say they have younger siblings at home,” Brewer says. “They always want to know if they can take something back.” After Brewer spoke with Bryce, staff members followed him home with a care package for little Sarah. This was a temporary solution to a huge problem Brewer worries about every day. “Until we see that child digging food out of a trash can, it doesn’t hit home,” Brewer says.

“Once it does, you know you have to do something.”

Nearly 220,000 Ohio children under six are poor and young children of color are more likely to be poor. More than half (55.5 percent) of Black children, 40.3 percent of Hispanic, and 19.1 percent of White children under six in Ohio are poor; 21 percent of them live in families where at least one parent works full-time year-round; 47 percent have at least one parent working part of the year or part-time; and 32 percent have no employed parent. Nearly one in four Ohio children lacks consistent access to adequate food—that’s 653,410 Ohio children of all ages in every corner of the state. Nationally, 15.3 million children were food insecure in 2014. The majority live in families with one or more working adults—but are still unable to consistently afford enough food to keep the wolves of hunger from their door.

There is no excuse for any child in America to go hungry and malnourished in the richest nation on Earth. Yet child hunger is a widespread, urgent and shameful problem that cannot wait. We all have to do something—now. Bryce and Sarah (names were changed to protect their identities) are far from alone as shown in a new Children’s Defense FundOhio searing report calling to end the childhood hunger many thousands of Ohio’s youngest children suffer every day. Babies, toddlers, and preschoolers suffering hunger and malnutrition face increased odds of negative health outcomes during their years of greatest brain development. Food insecure children under age five are: Nearly two times more likely to be in “fair or poor health”; Nearly two times more likely to experience developmental delays; Two times as likely to have behavioral problems; More than twice as likely to be hospitalized; Two and a half times more likely to have headaches, and Three times more likely to have stomach aches.

Food insecure children are more likely to be behind in social skills and reading performance in kindergarten. By elementary school they are four times more likely to need mental health counseling. Risks keep accumulating: malnutrition from childhood food insecurity has been linked to adult diseases including diabetes, hyperlipidemia and cardiovascular disease. The stress and anxiety of early childhood hunger also make it harder to learn skills that help later relationship development, school success and workplace productivity.

Babies born to food insecure mothers face tragic odds: they are more likely to be born pre-term and at low birthweight and to struggle with breastfeeding which contributes to increased infant mortality rates. Babies who survive are more likely to struggle with disabilities during childhood and adolescence and face higher risks of chronic disease as adults. School-age food supports of free and reduced price breakfast and lunch are critically important to the health and academic success of older children but young children should not be forced to suffer from lack of food. Not a single parent or grandparent would want our young children or grandchildren rummaging through trash cans seeking food for younger brothers and sisters.

It’s long past time for political leaders at every level and all of us to end child hunger. Mrs. Coretta Scott King once said, “I must remind you that starving a child is violence.” Continuing to condone the pain of hunger and malnutrition in America is unforgivable. Please demand our political leaders act right now.

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

C O M M E N T A R Y

Reem Haddad New Internationalist

‘How can you say no?’

A Syrian girl stands behind a door in a makeshift settlement Ketermaya, south of Beirut. The village, which has a population of just 15,000, is hosting 5,000 refugees – the same number given sanctuary by Britain over the last four years.

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omething strange and new is happening on a little hill just 12 kilometres north of Beirut.

Veiled women are walking around the narrow alleys of a little Christian enclave. In tow are their children, skipping around. Every once in a while, the radio blasts out Qu’ranic verses that startle the Christian residents, who are more used to hearing their Sunday church bells.

Lebanon is accustomed to veiled women. While not officially admitted, the number of Muslim Lebanese exceed Christians. But while some areas boast both religions living side by side, most remain largely separated.

And so it was a bit of a shock at first for the Christians living in the little Dbayeh camp to wake up and find themselves neighbours with Syrian refugees, especially Muslim ones. In the early days there were some minor disagreements. But once the shock wore off, there was really nothing to do but welcome them in. After all, the 500 residents of Dbayeh know what it is like to be refugees: they and their families have been displaced for over half a century.

Their story began in 1948 when they fled their homes in the wake of the creation of Israel. Catholics from around Galilee in northern Palestine, they were labelled as refugees and denied many rights by the Lebanese government. To this day, a Palestinian cannot own property and is barred from working in over 70 skilled jobs. They continue to be unwelcome and remain the subject of resentment. Dbayeh camp has slipped into poverty.

The arrival of the 50 refugee families in the camp was contentious. On the one hand, Palestinians could sympathize with the Syrians. But on the other, they felt they were losing out. The arrivals had come because their husbands had found unskilled jobs in the area – by working at lower wages.

‘There is no denying that Syrians are taking our jobs,’ said Elias Habib, a Palestinian refugee who resides in the camp and oversees the JCC (Joint Chris-

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ot all is right in the state of Arunachal Pradesh in the Indian Union. Some old British-rule era habits die hard, or may be they never die for some imperial habits are essential for maintaining undemocratic dominance over democratically elected undesirables. Thus New Delhi struck again, this time through the office of the governor of Arunachal Pradesh. Jyoti Prasad Rajkhowa, the Delhi School of Economics educated former Indian Administrative Service officer, was appointed as the governor of Arunachal Pradesh by the present BJP-led NDA government at New Delhi. This New Delhi appointed unelected character toppled the democratically elected government of Arunachal Pradesh, led

by Chief Minister Nabam Tuki of the Congress. This was accomplished by convening the assembly without consulting the speaker or the chief minister and using that 'assembly' to 'impeach' the speaker of the Arunachal Pradesh assembly Nabam Rebia. This governorconvened 'assembly' was not actually held inside the Arunachal Pradesh legislative assembly building but in a random community hall in Itanagar. The Gauhati High Court has stayed these actions by the governor for the time being. Thus, this attempt at 'regime change' has been stalled. What does one call the toppling of an elected government by an unelected office-holder like the governor?

New Delhi appointed governor Rajkhowa chose to act as he did based on his reading of the constitution. It is amazing that there exists no method available beforehand to a state government and hence to the people of the state to stop a New Delhi deputed governor from doing what he did. This is a disease common to all over-centralized multi-ethnic rashtras. Theses entities show who is sovereign by choosing which of its own made-up rules it can violate and when. Unfortunate are the people of the lands that are called Arunachal Pradesh. Even the name of the state, 'Arunachal Pradesh' is an imposition for those two words mean nothing in any language native to the

After nearly five years of war in Syria, its tiny neighbour Lebanon has the highest concentration of refugees in the world. But while an overstretched government is increasingly hostile, some Palestinian residents are bucking the trend, responding with great generosity – across the religious divide tian Center), a small NGO which caters for Palestinian refugees in Dbayeh. ‘And I know that this camp cannot possibly take in any more people. But how can you say no? They need us.’

Soon, clothes and food began flowing to the Syrians. But there remained one significant problem: education. With nearby public schools only able to offer spaces to Syrian children once all Lebanese students have registered, many refugees found themselves excluded.

Seeing the Syrian children wandering aimlessly around the camp, the JCC took it upon itself to turn its small building into an unofficial five-room schoolhouse.

‘What they are doing here for us is a godsend,’ said Fatima Ballout, who travelled with her children from Idlib in northern Syria. ‘There is no place for my children in the Lebanese public school this year and we don’t have the money to send them to a private school.’

It is a struggle for Ballout to abide by the tough new government rules. She must now find fees every year to renew residency permits, which can run to $1,000 for a family.

Her story is like that of countless other Syrian

women. Her husband was working as an unskilled labourer in Lebanon before the war, and sent for her and their children when conflict reached their home town two years ago. She now shares a threebedroom flat with three other Syrian families.

Yet every morning, Ballout’s children are among 91 pupils who attend the JCC school. Four teachers – three Syrian and one Palestinian – hold classes all morning. Parents pay a symbolic fee of $6 per month and all materials are provided.

‘We teach the Syrian curriculum in the hope that they can one day go back to continue their education there,’ said Habib. ‘We don’t have books, so we make do with photocopies.’

In the afternoon, the classroom is turned into a community centre for the camp’s children. All are welcome to join choir, storytelling hour, dancing and, during the summer, camps and field trips.

‘I have been touched by the way the Palestinians welcomed us here,’ said Rania Merjeh, whose house in Aleppo has been completely destroyed.

She and 30 other women had just arrived at the JCC centre for a meeting with Habib about their children’s progress.

‘They are doing their best to make us comfortable,’ she continued. ‘But we want to go back to our homes in Syria. I want to rebuild my house and replant my garden. I don’t want to emigrate to a strange land. I just want to go home.’

Habib looked at her sympathetically. ‘You know, Rania,’ he said slowly, ‘we have been waiting for 67 years now. But don’t you despair. At least when your war is over, you will still have a country.

Look at us. Our whole country was taken away and nobody really wants us.’

The Palestinian and Syrian refugees looked at each other pensively for a few moments. There was really nothing more to say.

‘Bless you,’ Merjeh finally said, as dozens of children raced in for afternoon activities. ‘Bless you.’

Imperial assertions in ‘Arunachal Pradesh’ Garga Chatterjee

The office of the governor is an example of an anti-people undemocratic relic from the British rule. Such an undemocratic system has no place in a representative federal democracy people's homelands that constitute the area. It is distant – not from people of the area, who should ideally matter, but from the real decision-makers of Arunachal Pradesh – folks who decide its fate sitting in or consulting with New Delhi, in short, the folks who really matter. Their plight may not even have made it to the so-called 'national' radar but for the fact that the ousted government was led by a 'national party' and that party now needs to score brownie points against another 'national party' that is in power in New Delhi.

Let me state certain things, in a question and answer form. Who is the governor of a state? That character is New Delhi's agent in a state/province.

This character even has discretionary powers – which do not flow from wishes of the state's people but typically from the wishes of New Delhi. What is the origin of this position? When British acquired one sovereign area of the subcontinent after another, after having amassed some serious amount of territory (which would go on to become the Indian Union and Pakistan in 1947), they appointed some loyal and trusted dalal of centralized imperial rule, to keep the acquired areas and provinces 'in check'. These positions had various names in various British

acquired and controlled territories in the subcontinent. The 1935 Government of India Act had provincial governors with huge discretionary powers – natural for a colonial centre when dealing with limited but representative native provincial government. The post-partition position of the governor is, in a long range sense, the continuation of that office. What change did governorship undergo from Union Jack to Tricolour? How similar were the pre-partition dalals of British imperialism and post-partition agents of New Delhi? Firstly, post-partition, they were non-white.

Also, they answered to New Delhi and not finally to London.

But as before, they were almost never from the area which they were appointed to 'govern'. They also have often done what their pre-partition counterparts did – carry out central rule as per wishes of New Delhi, typically when democratically elected government's of states does things that New Delhi's sarkar bahadur doesn't like. Did Indian Union's founding fathers want to change or abolish this imperialism-inspired position? Yes and No. If one follows the debates of the constituent assembly, one sees a pattern. The debates started before 1947, and ended much after that. The same

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Congressites who made many speeches in such debates in support of state rights made an about turn after partition. With their super-majority control of New Delhi, centralizing power was the way to check any opposition. This was reflected in the governor issue.

There were the anti-imperialist calls for doing away with the position altogether. There was a democratic sentiment of having a governor elected by the state's people. After all, how can the constitutional head of the state government be so unrepresentative. True to their character, most of Indian Union's founding fathers sitting in New Delhi not only wanted the governor position to continue but also made in an unelected position, directly controlled by the Centre. They also gave this position the power to recommend the dissolution of elected state governments, often elected many crores of people.

There has been President's Rule in the states nearly a 100 times with the governor playing a shameful role most of the time. 22 of these instances saw the governor rule the states for a year or more. And president's rule is just one among the many other ways in which New Delhi parks its unwanted nose in state politics through its governor. Such an undemocratic system has no place in a representative federal democracy.

It is only after the rise of ethno-national parties in the states that the governors have lost some teeth. But they have not become toothless, as the events of Itanagar show.

The office of the governor is an example of an anti-people undemocratic relic from the British rule. Must we remind ourselves so explicitly that what happened on 15th August 1947 was transfer of power, its repackaging as 'independence' notwithstanding? People of a state, Arunachal Pradesh included, are neither stupid or nor apprentice-citizens. They are adults with inalienable rights of democratic representation.

Swaraj is a process – not an event. Abolishing the post of governor will be a step in that direction. It’s not a 'bad apple' issue but a poison tree issue. Why should unelected governors exist at all?

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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.

tuesDAY 02•02•2016

PERSPECTIVE

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

The purposes & powers of utopia Neoliberalism is a utopian vision based on a ‘world without poverty’. What if we imagine a world in which the problem is not poverty but wealth?

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From a defence of utopia to a contestation of utopias Bizarrely, those who argue that we need to seek different grand visions, because progress toward a Mercadian utopia is halting, socially deleterious, highly contested, unstable, and environmentally insane, are those most commonly criticised for not facing facts or for being unrealistic. ‘Utopian’ is often a derogative term aimed at the left when they claim that ‘another world is possible’. It is something of an irony that liberal marketeers call those who see the realities of capitalism ‘utopian’, when they themselves are constantly airbrushing capitalist globalisation as a progressive, consensual, and positive-sum project that tends towards equilibrium.

One salient example of this airbrushing concerns unfree labour. Liberal political economy was constructed on a distinction between slavery as a ‘historic’ phenomenon and free labour as a modern capitalist phenomenon. One can find this in Adam Smith, John Stuart Mill, and myriad commentaries on ‘modern slavery’ by liberal economists. A basic argument underpins this liberal proposition: unfree labour is anathema to capitalism because it constrains capitalism’s efficiency and productivity maximising properties, which are based on adaptive individuals learning skills, making maximising rational choices, and producing that complex Hayekian information economy in which freely-determined price signals

“Arena of Mind” portrays a space for idea germination, a field where ideas from multi-disciplinary viewpoints fertilize the world of intelligence. The writers aspire to envision a new future by exploring the mind, discovering new seeds of insights and unleashing them to enlightenment.

Highlighting the Need for Women Entrepreneurship in Nagaland Thejanuo Fidelia Assistant Professor Department of Commerce St. Joseph’s College (NAAC Accreditated) Jakhama, Nagaland

Graham Harrison

t is generally accepted that to label a political argument as utopian is in part to condemn it. And yet, a great many political arguments have some utopian refrain. There is something in the possibilities of utopian thinking that seems too rich, too exciting, too open-bordered to pass up. Even in an age in which we are told that politics has become more moderate, more technical, and obsessed with ‘evidence-based policy’, we find explorations of how we might live if we could do exactly that. And we come across utopian thinking even in the oddest places.

Imagine a beautiful island in uncharted emerald seas. On that island, everyone gets a wage that reflects their productivity, leaving just enough profit for the entrepreneur to invest in their company and remain competitive. This allows each and every firm to provide goods and services at the cheapest price to a nation of consumers who seek out the best value for money in all things. There is little waste. Everybody can know about the state of the markets for jobs and goods and services, and everybody is free to change their working and purchasing preferences.

This makes everybody happy. Society is a great agglomeration of little acts of decision-making in the marketplace, which has its own positive overall effects in producing a near-perfect balance between wages, prices, and investment.

All of this free and competitive interaction keeps inequalities in check, and if there are some people considerably poorer than everyone else this is not morally troubling because they had roughly the same opportunities as everyone else. One can always work harder. One can always be ambitious. There is no red tape or government diktat to stop you. In fact, on this island – let’s call it Mercadia, a market-Arcadia – the government does as little as possible, checked as it is by vibrant and free associations of citizens as well as a range of economic interest groups. Everyone obeys the rule of law, which is there to ensure that contracts are honoured, that private property is respected, and that people are not harmed by the actions of others.

There is also minimal social provision to make sure the most vulnerable are not left to suffer. Elections allow everyone to participate in the way they are governed and to provide a reassuring legitimacy for the state. There is good governance and a free market society. The economy grows, and it grows in a stable fashion.

Now, this island does not exist; nor has it ever existed. But I would wager that this characterisation is quite familiar to readers. That is because it is the utopian premise embedded in the politics and policymaking of a great many governments in the present day. It is also – with some tweaking – the great assumption of ceteris paribus (all things being equal) that enables economists to make predictions and process massive amounts of data. Economists often start (implicitly or explicitly) by assuming that all humankind is composed of utility-maximising and rational individuals who strive in fairly ‘flat’ social landscapes within which they can access knowledge, be mobile, and exercise unconstrained choice. This is a utopia, as David Graeber writes in The Utopia of Rules, that is based in a “refusal to deal with people as they actually are”. This is our contemporary flat earth theory, a mystical terrain with few contours but those established by factor endowments and market catchment areas.

Utopian it might be, but Mercadia exerts a great deal of ideational power. This is not because it is a realistic destination for humankind, but because it is located at the helm of so many ships of state, coursing through the choppy waters of global capitalism in search of this island paradise. Mercadia is a dream held in the hearts of so many of those who wield power which allows it to evade one of the main concerns that people have with utopias: a lack of realism.

There is nothing so reassuring for a utopian than a hold on power that can create facts on the ground: building a model factory/community as Robert Owen did, or setting up a new society of settlers in a supposed terra nullis as various religious communities did in the New World. Or, indeed, working for the World Bank, which claims that our dream is a world free of poverty and believes it has the resources and knowledge to do this.

The policy advice of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank, the ‘Washington Consensus’ on economic strategy, the invigilation of national economies by credit rating agencies and international banks, and the locking in of law-like rights for international capital – all of these provide a strongarmed and integrated political project based on the faith that today’s utopia can become tomorrow’s reality.

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allow coordination and dynamism.

Except that ‘modern day slavery’ has grown as capitalist globalisation has expanded, as many articles published on Beyond Trafficking and Slavery have demonstrated. Unfree labour flourishes not as the last redoubt of a marginal illicit economy but as a core constituent of capitalism. It is a product of global migrant labour regimes established by capitalist states; the rise of precarious labour contracts; of the relentless downward pressure on wages in agricultural and low-price consumer goods sectors; and of the increasingly complex commodity chains dominated by large transnational corporations. This is a remarkable an ideological coup: liberal market framings of the global economy are considered ‘realistic’, even though they are based on an idealised vision of labour, opportunities, positive-sums, and brighter futures.

So, now that we understand how liberal utopias define global poverty and unfree labour as residuals to be tidied up by nimble liberal governance, let us explore utopian imagery that contests Mercadia. We shall do so by considering the phenomenon of global poverty, a complex condition that is strongly interwoven with the production of unfree labour regimes.

‘Our dream is a world free of poverty’ At the turn of the millennium, the main device through which the World Bank and other western donors proposed to deal with global poverty was through the ‘poverty reduction strategy paper’. This strategy involved a mixture of spending on basic social provision and infrastructure mixed with a continued economic liberalism, which, as we now know, made little difference to global poverty and inequality. Indeed, by many measures poverty and inequality have continued to increase over the past decade, and it goes without saying that the super-rich have been doing very well. This brings us to the crux of the matter. The poverty problem is not the poor. It is the rich and the Olympian amounts of wealth that they have accrued. In light of these broad patterns, I would like to propose a wealth reduction strategy paper, and, in doing so, a far more effective poverty reduction strategy. It is not a nice romantic neoliberal win-win strategy; it is the best kind of lose-win.

Before setting out this strategy, a few caveats and explanations. I will be using some very crude figures to set out my proposal. Every one of these figures can be contested, as calculations of wealth and poverty are constantly being revised in light of new methodological techniques and data sets. There are also many more tangible ‘political economy’ questions that can be raised, for example about the pricing of assets; the ‘invisible’ nature of part of the income of the poor; the ability of the rich to hide assets. I am happy to accept that all of the figures are guesses made by international institutions and academic researchers, but nevertheless suppose that they remain effective illustrations of the kind of world we live in and the possibilities for wealth reduction that are on offer. I do not think that revisions in these figures – perhaps even quite large ones – will change the substance of the case.

A thought experiment for harsh times According to Credit Suisse, the top 1% of the world’s individuals possess about half of the world’s total wealth. Total global wealth (assets minus income) is calculated at about $250 trillion (that’s twelve zeros), so the total wealth – assets held by the richest net of their incomes – is $125,000,000,000,000.

I argue that, ideally, the 1% should be forcibly dispossessed of this wealth in order to produce a more socially just global income distribution.

This means taking these assets (financial, property, industrial capital) and converting them into income by monetising them. Let us assume that the estimated values of this wealth are realised on sale (perhaps to the nearly super-rich, perhaps to states). We would then have choices about how to distribute the money as grant income. The most commonly-held view of social justice and its relationship to poverty is that one should start with the poorest and work your way up.

According to the World Bank, there are about 896 million people living on less than $1.90 a day, a commonly-used categorisation of global extreme poverty. This means that those people are, on average, earning $688 or less per year. According to the International Labour Organisation, the global average wage income per year is just under $10,000. So, in any one year, the world’s most income-poor would have to be compensated for a shortfall of $9,312 per person to reach the global average. That amounts to around $8.3 trillion ($8,343,552,000,000), or a shade less than 6.7% of the $125 trillion we took from the super rich. That leaves $116.6 trillion left in the pot for the next year, enough to maintain those 896 million people at the $10,000-a-year average for another fourteen years.

One important issue with the figures here is that the very crude mean global income calcula-

tion does not adjust for the numbers of children within each country. But, I would argue that we need to break away from the strong association of grant allocation to the ‘working poor’, mainly because children and older people (both warmly defined as dependents by economists) are often especially poor and vulnerable.

According to UNICEF, about 22,000 children die from poverty-related diseases every day (mainly diarrhoea). The WHO estimates that poor sanitation and unsafe water kill about 17 million people per year, and that there are about 170 million underweight children. Malaria kills about 600,000 people per year; tuberculosis kills about 1.5 million people a year (often in conjunction with the immune-deficiency caused by AIDS). And so on, and so on. Global mass poverty is a litany of unnecessary death. The statistics point to one clear conclusion: 896,000,000 people are living, but never far from illness and death. So, a simple and rather undeniable fact is that this transfer of wealth into income for the poorest has a basic and direct effect in massively reducing poverty-related deaths in the hundreds of thousands if not millions.

If you need further convincing that this thought experiment is not morally convincing, consider further the implications of a sustained generational income transfer. Poor people do not simply consume this income; they build more productive lives. Fifteen years (which morbidly coincides with an entire productive life for millions) is long enough to invest, plan, build up skills, adapt, and grow. In other words – and there is a wealth of evidence in livelihoods studies to back this up – giving money to the poor means providing a powerful dynamo to global production, innovation, and growth. Raised and stable incomes would also mean more people getting education and training – indeed the provision of the grant incomes could be conditional on participation in primary education. That is something some countries already do. There is a strong multiplier effect in this redistribution, which would create further broader upward movement in global average incomes and reductions in global inequality.

If you agree that the saving of lives and energising of livelihoods are desirable outcomes but are concerned about the 1%, don’t be. If these ‘high value’ individuals are really so valuable, one can assume that they would have the wherewithal to re-establish themselves fairly quickly. After all, they have only had their wealth taken from them. Whatever incomes they were earning would likely be reduced, but not removed; and their primary residence would remain their property. It would be a hard task indeed to pity the millionaire who loses her financial portfolio, makes do on a reduced but comfortable income, and has no choice but to lay off some of the domestics. Only the most absurd liberal neutrality can argue the wrong in this with a straight face.

Perhaps we can reassure the mewling 1%-ers as they flail about in their algae-filled pools that the assets they possessed have been put to far better use.

Perhaps they will be pacified by the knowledge that the best economic arguments suggested that the accrual of massive wealth amongst such a small number of individuals was significantly undermining the prospects for sustained growth everywhere. Or, perhaps, we could just leave them in their pools. The idea that politics is about pleasing or justifying decisions to all is patently absurd.

Political realities In 1729 Jonathan Swift wrote the dark satire A Modest Proposal. In it, he suggested that the solution to mass poverty in Ireland was to eat the poor – their infants to be precise. My proposal has the merit both of allowing the world’s poor to live and the world’s super wealthy to remain uneaten. It is also not offered as satire, although it is clearly idealistic.

It seems to me that the practicalities of this kind of global conversion of the rich’s wealth into the poor’s income are extremely difficult to address, but as a basic socially just redistribution it seems almost like common sense.

It is worth bearing in mind that there is nothing in this proposal that challenges global capitalism, just its current distribution of wealth. Capitalism – historically unprecedented in its flexibility and tenacity – could endure this transformation. Aspects of my proposal are already made by those mainstream writers who think that income transfers to the poorest will revitalise markets and that unproductive wealth distorts the proper functioning of a market economy.

The rub is political: how can one generate a political challenge to a global oligarchy that exercises such immense control over economies, states, and peoples? It is difficult to imagine how liberal reformism or enlightened elite global governance would be fit to this task. But in the absence of ‘realistic’ political projects to address the cohabitation of extreme poverty and extreme wealth, the spectre of more radical political possibilities remains.

istorically women in Nagaland had no equal opportunities with men. But comparatively, Naga women do enjoy certain advantages over other women in India. With the advance of Christianity and the introduction of education in the state, many young Naga girls had the opportunity to learn and grow through their education.

With education and knowledge, women too are aware of the need for economic independence, status in the society and need for achievement in life.

Women have received worldwide recognition and efforts to increase and improve or enhance their ability, creativity as well as their contribution in the society. There has been an increase in female literacy rate as well as a reduction of gender based inequalities in the 21st century even in India and particularly in Nagaland too. Women are becoming more independent economically and socially. There have been examples of outstanding performance and contribution of women in almost all fields be it science, technology, engineering, social science, music or industry, trade and commerce. These examples have brought to light the potentials and capabilities of women, which needed to be nurtured in the male dominated society not only to liberate women but also to harness their abilities for the overall development of the country as a whole and particularly the state. However, the fact that woman has certain characteristics which differ from their male counterparts and the fact that family or social balance need to be kept in mind.

The process of entrepreneurship is not an easy task whether it is undertaken by women or men, entrepreneurship is endowed with problems. Entrepreneurs face a number of hurdles in the process of starting their enterprises or running them successfully. Women entrepreneurs also possess the same entrepreneurial characteristics as men. In fact, when women and men are compared, women are challenged on more grounds then men. In other words, it is observed through various studies that women entrepreneurs are endowed with some extra qualities such as ability, dedication to work, tolerance and patience to undertake an unknown task.

The Government of Nagaland has declared the year 2010 as the “Year of Entrepreneur” so as to encourage the youth in Nagaland to undertake entrepreneurial activities in the state. The Morung Express, 1st May 2010 further reports that the declaration envisaged providing assistance in the form of training for capacity building, subsidized power connection, easy loans and land to establish their business. As per data collected by the researcher from the Directorate of Industries and Commerce, Nagaland, 2012, reveals that 1000 youths have been selected under this program, whereas only 128 individuals were provided with assistance by the Government through this program.

Out of the 128 beneficiaries 108 were male entrepreneurs and 20 were female entrepreneurs. These 20 female entrepreneurs were engaged in piggery, floriculture, T-shirt making, cyber-café and beauty parlour.

Amin, Mir. M (2008) in his study “Entrepreneurship development- An Approach to economic empowerment of women”- when women have economic power defined as control of income and capital they gain more equality and control over their own lives, contributing directly to the growth of nations’ income.

Mandal, Deepali(2008) mentioned in the paper on “Women Entrepreneurship in the North East Region for Economic Development”- Girls today need to be exposed to the new value system that will enable them to emerge as ‘new women’…...Women have predominant role to play in our country/society and there is a need to bring them into mainstream of economic development, which is possible by indicating entrepreneurship culture amongst them.

In a recent study conducted where 70 respondents were randomly selected, it was revealed that women entrepreneurs of the State are engaged as vegetable vendors, traditional cloths and items, beauty parlors, dress making and tailoring, readymade goods, hotels and restaurants, and other shops selling different varieties of items, beads manufacturing, candle making, florist, etc. It was also observe that those women with lower educational qualifications were running their units profitably if not better than those women with higher educational qualifications. Furthermore, it was analyzed interesting that 86% of sample respondents’ i.e.60 women out the 70 women respondents were main bread earners of their respective families.

Some of the problems that were analyzed in the study are: 1. Lack of economic independence & autonomy to start business.

2. Lack of encouragement & support from family.

3. Lack of access to land, properties and other resources.

4. Family obligations affecting the business.

5. Problems due to low level of education.

6. Limited choice of activities due to limited knowledge.

7. Problems exist due to lack of financial assistance.

8. Lack of experience in business management.

9. Lack of marketing infrastructural facilities.

10. Lack of marketing assistance & support.

11. Presence of conflict due to family-work balance.

12. Lack of opportunities for growth and expansion of business.

13. Lack of governmental & support agencies for women.

14. Lack of advice whenever/wherever required.

15. Lack of mobility whenever required.

Overcoming the above problems would mean success in running their businesses. The extend of need felt for infrastructural facility in the State, lack of knowledge of existing support system as well as the lack of awareness among women on the availability of different schemes for the development of women entrepreneurship. Banking and other financial institutions have to create awareness about the availability of loans particularly to women entrepreneurs. Government machineries and other developmental agencies also have a very important role to play in supporting as well as encouraging women in starting and running their enterprises.

“Entrepreneurship is an occupational enterprise taken at a personal level”

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

TuesdAY 02•02•2016

INDIA

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

14 Pune collegians drown in Arabian Sea near Mumbai raigaD (MaharaShtra), February 1 (iaNS): At least 14 college students - part of a group of 130 on a picnic - drowned in the Arabian Sea at Murud Beach in Raigad district, around 150 km south of Mumbai, police said here on Monday.

The toll is expected to rise as 10-12 students are still missing.

The Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard deployed a Chetak helicopter and a speed boat besides police divers for the combined mega rescue operations.

Among the victims are at least four girl students.

Four girls were successfully rescued while another six have been rushed to nearby hospitals. The cause of the massive tragedy is still not clear.

The students were part of a group of more than 130 from Maharashtra Cosmopolitan Education Society's Abeda Inamdar College and had come to the picturesque Murud beach for a picnic, Superintendent of Police Suvez Haque said.

Raigad district police said that those feared drowned are students from Computer Science department of the Abeda Inamdar College in Pune, from where a group of over 120 students had gone for a picnic. (Express Photo)

The MCES president, P.A. Inamdar, told IANS that the 130 senior students, studying in first, second and third year B.Sc. (Computer Science) and BCA (Computer Applications), had gone on a college-sponsored annual picnic accompanied by at least five staff members and other support staff.

"We are shocked by this tragedy. We are making all efforts to help the students and their families with the help of the local villagers and police. A team of our trustees has already left Pune for Raigad for rendering further assistance," Inamdar said.

He added that the process of ascertaining the

identity of the victims and informing their families is underway.

According to available information, the number of casualties may go up as some more students were reporting missing in the waters.

Rescue operations are underway in full swing by locals and the Raigad po-

lice with help from nearby police stations and now joined by Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard.

Meanwhile, thousands of tourists and locals gathered at the Murud Beach where the bodies of the victims were lined up even as grieving parents and relatives rushed to the college campus or to Murud.

Political sparks fly over Delhi Police 'brutality' New Delhi, February 1 (iaNS): The AAP and the Congress on Monday hit out at the central government after a video showed Delhi Police attacking viciously students protesting against a Dalit student's suicide in Hyderabad.

After initially trying to justify the police action on the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) students here on January 30, Delhi Police ordered a probe "for necessary action". The origin of the video was not clear.

It appeared to have been shot by a student. It went viral after Delhi's ruling Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) shared it on its Twitter handle. The video showed policemen in uniform and in plainclothes raining lathisc on the students protesting against the January 17 suicide by Dalit research scholar Rohith Vemula.

Some officials were caught on camera using fisticuffs on the students, including women, and pushing them to the ground.

A young woman who saw the beating said on Monday they would file an FIR against police. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said Delhi Police was "being used by the BJP/ RSS as their (private) army to terrorise and teach (a) lesson to anyone opposing the BJP/RSS. "I strongly condemn (the) attack on students," the AAP leader added.

Referring to earlier student protests at the Pune-based Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) and Hyderabad University, Kejriwal said: "FTII, Rohith case, Hyd Univ, IITs and now brutal attack on Delhi students. Modi government seems to be at war with students." Delhi's Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia demanded the suspension of the police personnel.

Another AAP leader, Sanjay Singh, urged Prime Minister Narendra Modi to

"immediately intervene and take action against the responsible police personnel".

Delhi Police does not report to the Kejriwal government but to the central home ministry and Lt. Governor Najeeb Jung. Congress leader Abhishek Singhvi said the Modi government "has become completely apathetic to the voice of students, in addition to being anti-Dalit and anti-poor. "This insane crushing of dissent by using state machinery will not go down well with the youth of this country," he said. Police did not deny the authenticity of the video, and ordered an inquiry to be supervised by Deputy Commissioner Parmaditya. Parmaditya told IANS that police were so far unaware of the assault.

"The whole issue will be investigated.

We will be able to comment on it only after it is over," he said. "We will take necessary action after the inquiry."

He, however, accused the students of breaking police barricades and of misbehaving with police personnel.

The Delhi Commission for Women (DCW) on Monday issued notice to Delhi Police and demanded a report.

In a notice to Joint Commissioner of Police Sunil Kumar Gautam, DCW chief Swati Maliwal said: "It is observed in the video that no female police personnel are present and male police personnel are beating protesters. "The video is extremely disturbing," she said, and sought the names and designations of the officers who approved the police action against the students. The Congress-affiliated National Students Union of India (NSUI) also condemned the assault and said that BJP government was using Delhi Police to crush the voice of students.

Pathankot attack: Pak wants more leads from India Modi reiterates India stand for building peaceful Afghanistan

lahore, February 1 (Pti): Pakistan's investigation into the Pathankot terror attack has made "no headway" and it will seek more evidence from India to move forward, a source privy to the developments said today, days after Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif promised to make the probe's findings public soon.

"No headway has been made in the investigation of (the) Pathankot attack so far. The ball is back in India's court again as we need more evidence to move forward in the probe," the source told PTI. The six-member Pakistan government's team investigating the Pathankot airbase attack has written to the foreign ministry to seek more "leads" from India.

"The team has almost completed its investigation into the five cellphone numbers (allegedly used for

making calls from Pakistan to India) provided by the Indian government.

No further leads were found from these numbers because they were unregistered and had fake identities," the source said, adding that the probe is not heading further. "The team needs more evidence. We have written to the government to speak to India and apprise it of the situation and demand more evidence to move forward in the investigation here," he said. India had given "specific and actionable information" to Pakistan soon after the January 2 attack.

Asked about the fate of the terror attack suspects, including banned Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) chief Masood Azhar, the source said, "let first more evidence come from India". Prime Minister Sharif had formed the six-member investigation

team headed by Additional Inspector General of Punjab's Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) Rai Tahir in the second week of January to probe the Indian government's assertion that JeM was behind the Pathankot attack. The team has so far held two meetings. Sharif told reporters here on Saturday that "the investigation into the Pathankot incident is underway and we will make its findings public soon." "Whatever facts come out, we will bring them forth before everyone," he had said.

Law-enforcement agencies have so far not produced any of the "suspects" arrested in connection with the Pathankot attack before a court.

The government has not disclosed the number of suspects detained.

However, reports said 31 JeM suspects have been taken into custody.

Sunanda Pushkar's death: Shashi Tharoor may have to take lie-detector test New Delhi, February 1 (ageNcieS): Congress senior leader Shashi Tharoor is likely to undergo a lie-detector test in connection with the death of his wife Sunanda Pushkar. As per the reports, Tharoor can be called in for another round of questioning and may have to take a lie-detector test.

A Special Investigation Team formed to probe Sunanda Pushkar's mysteri-

ous death, on last Thursday questioned Tharoor's domestic help Narayan Singh and driver Bajrangi. Police are also questioning a few chemists in Lodhi Colony to find the source of the Alprax tablets found in Sunanda's hotel room, where she was found dead.

A three-member AIIMS autopsy panel had found anti-anxiety drug Alprazolam — popularly known as Alprax — in Pushkar’s

Supreme Court raps states for not implementing MGNREGA, other schemes New Delhi, February 1 (Pti): The Supreme Court today came down heavily on certain states for not implementing welfare legislation National Food Security Act, saying that why a state like Gujarat is not implementing the law passed by Parliament.

"What is Parliament doing? Is Gujarat not a part of India? The Act says it extends to whole of India and Gujarat is not implementing it. Tomorrow somebody can say that it is not going to implement the CrPC, IPC and the Evidence Act," a bench headed by Justice Madan B Lokur said. The bench also asked the Centre to collect and collate information from drought-hit states on the status of welfare schemes like MGNREGA, National Food Security and mid-day meal. It asked the Centre to filed the affidavit

by February 10 and posted the matter for further hearing two days thereafter.

The apex court had on January 18 asked the Centre to give information about implementation of schemes under MGNREGA, Food Security Act and the mid-day meal schemes as to whether those affected were being provided the minimum required employment and food or not. The bench was hearing a PIL which alleged that parts of states like Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar, Haryana and Chattisgarh have been hit by drought and the authorities were not providing adequate relief.

The PIL, filed by NGO Swaraj Abhiyan run by persons like psephologist Yogendra Yadav, had sought implementation of the National Food Security Act which guarantees 5 kg of food grains per person per month. It sought a direction that affected families be also given pulses and edible oils. The plea had said that school-going children be also given milk and eggs under the mid-day meal scheme.

body, a fact corroborated by the FBI, which analysed the viscera samples.

The samples were sent to Washington after the Punebased Central Forensic Science Laboratory ruled out the presence of Alphrax in Pushkar’s body.

During an earlier round of questioning, Narayan and Bajrani had told investigators that the couple had got into a heated conversation, a day before Sunanda was

found dead. Singh reportedly also claimed that Tharoor had physically assaulted Sunanda during the argument.

In a series of tweets, Sunanda had accused Pakistani journalist Mehr Tarar of having an affair with her husband Shashi Tharoor.

On January 17, 2014, a day after the Twitter controversy, Sunanda was found dead under mysterious circumstances in a 5-star hotel of New Delhi.

New Delhi, February 1 (iaNS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday reiterated India's commitment for building a peaceful Afghanistan when Afghanistan's Chief Executive Officer and Head of the Council of Ministers Abdullah Abdullah called on him here.

“The prime minister expressed deep gratitude towards the government and the national security forces of Afghanistan for their bravery and sacrifice in order to protect the Indians, especially during the attack on the Indian consulate in Mazar-eSharif on January 4-5, 2016,” the external affairs ministry said in a statement.

“The prime minister reiterated India's commitment to extend all possible support to the efforts of the Afghan people in building a peaceful, stable, prosperous, inclusive and democratic country,” it stated.

On his part, Abdullah Abdullah recalled positively the maiden and successful visit of Modi to Afghanistan in December last year.

During Modi's visit to Kabul on December 25, the new Afghan parliament building, constructed with India's aid, was inaugurated.

At Monday's meeting, Abdullah Abdullah said that the visit re-energised the strategic partnership between the two countries.

“He deeply appreciated the support being extended by India for infrastructure development and capacity building in Afghanistan,” the external affairs ministry statement said.

“The two leaders shared views on further deepening the strategic part-

Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the CEO of Afghanistan, Abdullah Abdullah during a meeting in New Delhi on Monday. (PTI Photo)

nership, both in the bilateral and regional context.”

An agreement for visa-free travel for diplomatic passport holders of the two countries was exchanged in the presence of Modi and Abdullah Abdullah.

The Afghanistan Chief Executive later held a meeting with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj during the course of which India approved the third phase of 92 small development projects in Afghanistan.

External affairs ministry spokesman Vikas Swarup tweeted that Sushma Swaraj has approved the "strategic partnership for the benefit of (Afghan) people".

Abdullah Abdullah, who arrived

here on Sunday on a five-day visit to India, will leave for Jaipur on Tuesday where he will deliver the keynote address at a conference on counter-terrorism organised by the India Foundation in collaboration with Sardar Patel University of Police, Security and Criminal Justice, Jodhpur.

President Pranab Mukherjee will inaugurate the conference on Tuesday.

The conference will bring together counter-terrorism practitioners, policy makers and public intellectuals from India and abroad, the president's secretariat said in a statement.

The first counter-terrorism conference was held in March 2015 in Jaipur.

India emerging as top hub for robot-assisted surgeries: Experts New Delhi, February 1 (iaNS): Reasonable costs, less pain, early recovery and increasing awareness have put India on the global map when it comes to robot-assisted surgeries across the health spectrum and the country is poised to take a leap soon, some of the leading robotic surgeons have said.

According to the latest data from hospitals, Mumbai recorded over 70,000 robotic surgeries in 2015 -- mostly on patients from abroad. Delhi and Bengaluru have performed nearly 20,000 and 25,000 robotic surgeries, respectively.

More specifically, patients from the Middle East and Africa appear to be making a beeline for robotassisted surgeries in India because either they do not have advance robotic surgery facilities in their home country or, if available, its very expensive.

"I get at least one to two inquiries for robotic surgeries every week. These inquiries are usually from the Middle East and Africa. In the last two months alone, I had operated on seven patients with prostate cancer

from out of India," Dr Anup Ramani, consultant robotic and uro-oncological surgeon from Saifee Hospital and Breach Candy Hospital, Mumbai, told IANS. Dr Ramani said that for early prostate cancer the best treatment is through robotic surgery. In India, prostate cancer has seen a sharp rise and it affects the rich and the poor alike. "It is very important for men to do a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test once a year after 50," Dr Ramani said.

In New Delhi, Dr Vipin Tyagi, consultant urologist

and robotic surgeon in Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, successfully performed robotic surgery recently on a fouryear-old girl suffering from congenital grade 5 bilateral Vesico Ureteric Reflux (VUR), a disease in which urine starts going back from bladder to kidneys.

"She was having high fever with recurrent urinary tract infection since birth and was brought to Sir Gangaram Hospital.

Tests confirmed that she had VUR," Dr Tyagi said.

The parents wanted to avoid any big incision in

the little girl and it was not easy to do minimally-invasive surgery either. "We decided to go in for robotassisted bilateral ureteric reimplantation. The use of big robot, especially for VUR, is uncommon in children because it is difficult to get working space for the robotic arm inside the abdomen of a small child," the doctor said.

The team then decided to make certain modifications and improvisation for docking of the robotic arms in the way to get just sufficient working space for

the procedure. The girl was back home after two days.

Follow-up scans and reports showed the VUR had been cured.

"Robotic assistance provides incomparable 3D vision, better range of movements and it seems as if the surgeon has introduced his wrist inside the abdomen of the patients," Dr Tyagi explained.

According to Dr Meghal Sanghvi, oncologist at Wockhardt Hospital, the setup for robotic surgery is very important for all hospitals considering the rising demands for it in various parts including bypass surgery, transplants, cancer and gynae procedures.

"Apart from less time, robotic surgery also ensures there is no surgical error during the process," she noted. Further, the cost is only marginally higher than a normal procedure.

According to Dr Chris Holsinger, 48, who leads Stanford Cancer Centre's Head and Neck Oncology practice and has been interacting closely with leading Indian counterparts since 2008, India has significant talent and expertise in performing

robot-assisted surgeries for head and neck patients.

"The use of computerassisted surgery (via a surgical robot) to remove cancerous tissues or tumours in the head and neck areas helps the surgeon see the affected areas far more clearly - which is not possible in open surgery," Holsinger, who was recently in India to attend a seminar on head and neck cancer, told IANS. The Stanford Medical Center is working with leading oncologists with Indian health care providers like Delhi's Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC) and Mumbai's Tata Memorial Cancer Hospital for study of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) patients.

Dr Surender Dabas from RGCIRC says the minimally invasive surgical procedure for head and neck area allows access to the robot through the mouth, thus reducing trauma, pain and blood loss.

"Best of all, the procedure does not leave any scars on the face or neck and the recovery is much quicker," said Dr Dabas.

TuesdaY 02•02 •2016

WORLD

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

9

Zika virus spreads fear among pregnant Brazilians RECIFE, FEbRuaRy 1 (REutERs): For scores of women in the epicenter of the Zika outbreak in Brazil, the joy of pregnancy has given way to fear.

In the sprawling coastal city of Recife, panic has struck maternity wards since Zika - a mosquitoborne virus first detected in the Americas last year was linked to wave of brain damage in newborns.

There is no vaccine or known cure for the poorly understood disease.

In about four-fifths of cases, Zika causes no noticeable symptoms so women have no idea if they contracted it during pregnancy. Test kits for the virus are only effective in the first week of infection and only available at private clinics at a cost of 900 reais, more than the monthly minimum wage.

At Recife’s IMIP hospital, dozens of soon-to-be mothers wait anxiously for ultrasound scans that will indicate whether the child they are carrying has a shrunken head and damaged brain, a condition called microcephaly. The hospital has already had 160 babies born there with the deformity since August.

“It’s very frightening.

I’m worried my daughter will have microcephaly,” says Elisangela Barros, 40,

Pregnant woman waits for a routine general checkup, which includes Zika screening, at the maternity ward of the Hospital Escuela in Tegucigalpa, Honduras on January 27. (REUTERS Photo)

shedding a tear behind her thick-rimmed glasses. “My neighborhood is poor and full of mosquitoes, trash and has no running water.

Five of my neighbors have Zika.”

Women like Barros, who live in crowded, muddy slums of Brazil’s chaotic cities, have little defense against the Aedes aegypti mosquito that carries Zika,

as well as other diseases such as dengue and yellow fever. They often cannot afford insect repellent and have little access to family planning.

Shocking images of babies with birth defects have made many women think twice about getting pregnant.

Doctors worry the outbreak will lead to an in-

crease in dangerous clandestine abortions in the majority-Catholic country.

Under Brazilian law, terminating pregnancies is illegal except in cases of rape and when the mothers’ life is at risk.

The rapid spread of Zika to 22 countries in the Americas has prompted some governments to advise women to delay hav-

ing children. El Salvador recommended women not get pregnant for two years.

It has also triggered debate on liberalizing abortion in the region, where many countries have strict laws.

“Fear is growing among women because this is a new disease that we know little about. We don’t have many answers,” said Adri-

ana Scavuzzi, a gynecolo- “But how do you withdraw gist at the IMIP hospital. from circulation a mosquito that has lived with us for T H A L I D O M I D E so long?” Zika, first identiTRAGEDY fied in Uganda in 1947 and Brazil’s health minis- unknown in the Americas try said as of Jan. 23 there until discovered in Brazil were 270 confirmed cases last year, causes a mild feof microcephaly and a fur- ver and body aches, sympther 3,448 suspected cases toms that disappear in five since October are being in- days and can be mistaken vestigated -- by far the most for dengue, a virus that inin the Americas. World fected 1.6 million BrazilHealth Organization offi- ians last year. cials say there is no scienWith a health crisis tific proof that Zika stunts on its hands, Brazil’s govthe development of the fe- ernment says women tus, causing microcephaly, who want to get pregnant but it is strongly suspected. should discuss the risks Ninety percent of chil- with their doctors but has dren born with the con- stopped short of telling dition will have retarded them to delay. Instead, it mental and physical devel- plans to hand out insect reopment, and will need spe- pellent to tens of thousands cialized care for the rest of of low-income pregnant their lives. There is no cer- women and is stepping up tainty what they will be able an offensive to eradicate to see or hear, or when they the mosquito with the help will learn to walk and talk, of the army.

Scavuzzi said.

Scavuzzi compared the ABORTION ILLEGAL emergency to the ThalidoPublic health experts mide tragedy of the 1960s expect Zika will lead to an when thousands of chil- increase in illegal abordren, mostly in Europe, tions. An estimated 1 milwere born with deformed lion are already carried out limbs due to the use of every year in Brazil. the pill to help pregnant Botched procedures in women with insomnia and clandestine clinics using morning sickness. sharp tools, over-the-coun“It will be worse than ter medicines and no sterilthe Thalidomide gen- ization are already a major eration because then the cause of maternal deaths. cause could be withdrawn “Zika is a health cafrom the market,” she said. tastrophe and a terrifying

menace for pregnant women,” said Daniel Becker, a pediatrician and public health expert in Rio de Janeiro. “People will look for an abortion.”

Women’s rights organizations are advocating legal abortion in the case of women who contract Zika, a move that so far has been only taken by Colombia’s health ministry. In Brazil, a group of researchers, activists and lawyers plans to petition the Supreme Court to allow abortions for women who have the virus, by-passing an increasingly conservative Congress where Evangelical lawmakers are backing a bill to restrict abortion even in cases of rape.

The same group won a ruling in 2012 to extend legal abortion to anencephaly, a defect in which the baby is born without parts of the skull and brain and almost always dies shortly after.

With Brazil’s health care system already overstretched, the future for many mothers could be grim if the Supreme Court does not act, said Debora Diniz, a law professor leading the campaign. “We will soon have a generation of poor women whose destiny will be to look after extremely dependent children full-time,” she said.

Eat fruits in adolescence Artists, prisoners face former foes as Myanmar’s new rulers take seats FEbRuaRy 1 alone against the military to lower breast cancer risk yaNGON, (REutERs): Taking his seat and then she won,” said Khin

NEw yORk, FEbRuaRy 1 (IaNs): Girls who eat more high-fibre foods during adolescence - especially lots of fruits and vegetables - may have significantly lower breast cancer risk than those who eat less dietary fibre when young, new research has found.

For each additional 10 grams of fibre intake daily for example, about one apple and two slices of whole wheat bread, or about half a cup each of cooked kidney beans and cooked cauliflower or squash during early adulthood, breast cancer risk drops by 13 percent, the findings of this large scale study showed.

“From many other studies we know that breast tissue is particularly influenced by carcinogens and anticarcinogens during childhood and adolescence,” said senior author of the study Walter Willett, professor at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.

“We now have evidence that what we feed our children during this period of life is also an important factor in future cancer risk,” Willett noted.

The researchers believe that eating more fibre-rich foods may lessen breast cancer risk partly by helping to reduce high estrogen levels in the blood, which are strongly linked with breast cancer development.

The study was be published online in the journal Pediatrics.

“This work on the role of nutrition in early life and breast cancer incidence suggests one of the very few potentially modifiable risk factors for premenopausal breast cancer,” lead author of the study Maryam Farvid from Harvard Chan School noted.

The researchers looked at a group of 90,534 women who participated in the Nurses’ Health Study II, a large longrunning investigation of factors that influence women’s health.

Breast cancer risk was 12-19 percent lower among women who ate more dietary fibre in early adulthood, depending on how much more they ate, the study said.

The greatest apparent benefit came from fruit and vegetable fibre.

in Myanmar’s parliament for the first time, Myo Zaw Aung, a one-time bodyguard for Aung San Suu Kyi, acknowledged the dozens of new lawmakers from her National League for Democracy (NLD) had a daunting task ahead.

“We’re facing an uphill battle,” said the 35-year-old novice legislator. “Most of us have little experience in government, but we are very determined to make it work.”

The new NLD members flooded the imposing parliament building on Monday, many clad in the traditional burnt orange tunics that have been worn by the party for decades and overwhelmed the olive green of the army bloc as the freshly elected legislature met for the first time since Suu Kyi’s massive poll win in November.

Expectations are sky-high after the NLD won about 80 percent of elected seats, crushing the junta-linked ruling party and setting the stage to replace the semi-civilian government of President Thein Sein.

“It was like a dream because Daw Aung San Suu Kyi fought

Maung Myint, a first-time NLD lawmaker from Hpakant, a remote town in the north of the country famous for its jade production. The former jade and gems trader clutched a black suitcase given to parliamentarians last week containing a starter kit for first-time MPs, including a copy of Myanmar’s military-drafted constitution from 2008 and a basic guide to lawmaking.

“It did not only shake Myanmar, it shook the whole world,” he said. The 255 members of the NLD’s lower house caucus come from diverse backgrounds - artists, former political prisoners and small-scale entrepreneurs warily wandered the corridors of power together as they gathered to choose a speaker for the chamber.

But they comprise two main groups: experienced prodemocracy stalwarts who were persecuted and imprisoned under the junta, and members of a younger generation that joined the party after the country embarked on a process of reform in 2011. The two groups share two things in common:

New National League for Democracy lawmakers arrive for the opening of the new parliament in Naypyitaw February 1, 2016. REUTERS

they will be forced by the 2008 constitution to work with former enemies from the military; and they have very little experience of governing.

FINE LINE Suu Kyi has to tread a fine line, compromising between the change-hungry party grassroots, the general public and the army that still holds a quarter of seats in parliament and controls a large chunk of Myanmar’s state apparatus.

Choosing the speaker is an-

other stop on the NLD’s journey that began last September, when the candidates hit the campaign trail and canvassed votes in a well-organised operation, which included rigorous media training. Some activists left the party over Suu Kyi’s choice of candidates as she focused on creating a disciplined caucus, leaving some experienced activists out and making room for well-educated younger members who can enact laws - and also could be more willing to engage with the

Israel PM rejects French ‘ultimatum’ on Palestinian statehood JERusaLEM, FEbRuaRy 1 (REutERs): Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called on Sunday for a more “sober” approach towards the Israeli-Palestinian conflict in dismissing a French peace initiative as only encouraging Palestinians to shun compromise.

The proposal on Friday

by French Foreign Minister Laurent Fabius for an international peace conference was the latest sign of Western frustration over the absence of movement toward a two-state solution since the collapse of U.S.-brokered negotiations in 2014.

Fabius said that if the French plan did not break the deadlock, Paris would recognise a Palestinian state.

Such a step would raise concern in Israel that other European countries, also long opposed to its settlement-building in occupied territory, would follow suit.

In public remarks to his cabinet, Netanyahu did not explicitly reject the notion of an international conference - an aide said Israel would examine such a request once it was received - but he made clear that reported details of the plan made it a non-starter.

Netanyahu said a

“threat” to recognise a Palestinian state if France’s peace efforts did not succeed, constituted “an incentive to the Palestinians to come along and not compromise”.

“I assess that there will be a sobering up regarding this matter,” Netanyahu added. “In any event, we will make effort so that there is a sobering up here, and our position is very clear: We are prepared to enter direct negotiation without preconditions and without dictated terms.”

On Saturday, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas welcomed the French proposal, telling an African summit in Ethiopia that “the status quo cannot continue”.

But Washington responded with caution to the French move, saying it continued to prefer that Israel and the Palestinians reach an agreement on final-status issues through direct talks.

U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry called Abbas and the two discussed the French initiative and “the tense political situation in the region,” WAFA, the official Palestinian news agency reported on Sunday.

While aware the initia-

tive may struggle to get off the ground, French officials said Paris had a responsibility to act now in the face of Israeli settlement activity and the prospect of continued diplomatic inaction as the United States focuses on a presidential election in November.

And, the officials said, Netanyahu had gone a step too far in accusing U.N. Secretary of State Ban Ki-moon of giving a “tailwind to terrorism” by laying some of the blame for four months of stabbings and car rammings by Palestinians at Israel’s door. Ban angered Israel by saying last week that it is “human nature to react to occupation”.

The United States, European Union - Israel’s closest allies - have also issued unusually stern criticism of Israel in recent weeks, reflecting their own frustration with the policies of Netanyahu’s right-wing government.

The criticism, particularly about the settlements, where some 550,000 Jews live in around 250 communities scattered across the West Bank and East Jerusalem, has raised Palestinian hopes that world powers might finally be minded to support a U.N. resolution

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu attends the weekly cabinet meeting in Jerusalem January 31. (REUTERS Photo)

condemning Israel’s policy Shortly after that attack, outright. a Palestinian motorist was shot and wounded when WEST BANK ATTACK he tried to run down solSince October, Palestin- diers at a military checkian attacks, partly fuelled by point in the West Bank, the tensions over the freeze in army said. Over the past peace talks, have killed 26 four months, Israeli forces Israelis and a U.S. citizen. have killed at least 152 PalIn an incident on Sun- estinians, 98 of them assailday, a Palestinian gunman ants according to authoriwounded three Israelis near ties. Most the others have the West Bank settlement of died in violent protests.

Beit El and was then shot “I don’t see anything dead by soldiers, the Israeli that warrants living as long army said. Palestinian of- as the occupation smothficials said he worked as a ers us and kills our brothers bodyguard for a Palestinian and sisters ... You were first prosecutor in the West Bank and I am following you,” the city of Ramallah.

Beit El assailant, Amjad Abu

Omar, wrote on Facebook.

Palestinians seek a state in Gaza, the West Bank and East Jerusalem, parts of which have been occupied

by Israel since the 1967 Middle East war. Palestine has non-member observer status at the United Nations and its flag flies with those of member states at UN headquarters in New York.

Sweden became the first EU member nation to recognise the Palestinian state in 2014. A total of 136 U.N.-member countries, mostly in Africa, Latin America and Asia, now do so.

army.

Myo Zaw Aung was expelled from university in 2002 and was acting as Suu Kyi’s bodyguard a year later during what has become known as the Depayin Massacre, when her motorcade was attacked by pro-junta thugs and 70 of her supporters were killed in what was seen as an assassination attempt.

“I was arrested and tortured, but I can forgive the military. We now have to work together to ensure a smooth transition,” he said.

British woman who took toddler to join IS in Syria jailed for six years LONDON, FEbRuaRy 1 (REutERs): A British mother who took her 14-month-old son to Syria to join Islamic State fighters and allowed him to be photographed wearing a balaclava next to an assault rifle, was jailed for six years on Monday. Tareena Shakil, 26, left Britain in October 2014 and journeyed to the militant group’s stronghold of Raqqa with the toddler, despite describing the Syrian city as the most dangerous place on earth, Birmingham Crown Court was told.

She was convicted last Friday of being a member of Islamic State (IS) and encouraging terrorism on social media. She is believed to be the first woman to have gone on trial accused of joining the militants, media reports said.

Sentencing her to six years in prison, Judge Melbourne Inman said she had told lie after lie about her actions. “The most abhorrent photographs ... were those taken of your son wearing a balaclava with an ISIS logo and specifically the photograph of your son, no more than a toddler, standing next to an AK-47 under a title which translated from the Arabic means ‘Father of the British Jihad,’” Inman said.

The court heard she had published statements and pictures on Twitter in support of IS. A photograph uncovered by police showed her posing in Syria underneath an IS flag. Police said it was not known why she left Syria in January 2015. She was arrested by counter-terrorism officers when she returned to Britain on Feb. 18 after landing at Heathrow Airport and her son was taken into care.

“However unclear the true picture is, I will assume in your favour that you decided to leave because you had a change of heart,” Inman said.

“That mitigation is very limited however because you pleaded not guilty and having seen you give evidence I saw no evidence of remorse about what you had done or done to your son.”

Security services estimate up to 800 people have travelled to Iraq and Syria, many to join Islamic State, and about half have returned home.

10

tuesDAY 02•02•2016

public discourse

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Nagamese becoming common language in Nagaland and in Burma Naga

N

agaland has become homes of many communities besides the official 16 tribes of the Nagas, each of which has different dialects/tongues identified with different culture characteristics. All these tongues are quite different from the others and these are spoken within the community level. The Nagamese language has evolved as their common link language among all the tribes of Nagaland who speak more than thirty/ forty different tongues particularly in Dimapur, Kohima and Mokokchung town etc.

Nagamese language is the only lingua- franca in Nagaland which brings in a mode of communication and unity amongst different communities of the State and creates National integration.

The Nagamese language comes especially as a result of some social - linguistic interactions and these problems are felt aside to the interested researchers, luckily Dr. Hitoca Achumi, Ph.D. residing Near Sumi Baptist Church, Puranabazar Dimapur has written an article under the heading “Nagamese as an aid” expressing the fact that Nagamese as a language has grown along with the Naga people. Whereas, another Research Scholar Kereivile Kire in his lingustic point of view, it is too pre-mature for Nagamese to reach that stage to be recognized as a language.” He appreciated Mr. V. Phushika Awomi, former President, NSF’ for his article published on 10th January, 2016 in support of NSF statement on January 20 (NP) when news emanating from New Delhi that Prime Minister’s Office has reportedly initiated the idea to promote Nagamese as a common language. They expressed that “this is an attempt to deprive the Nagas of their identity” I am sure there would be many such writer against or support to take political mileage. However, as the author of Nagamese book entitled “Nagamese - the lingua franca of Nagaland translated into English and Sumi” published in the year 2007 and revised edition in 2015, I would like to reply this way.

The book may not be upto the expectation regarding the language as it has no script; it is a mixture of ideas, written under compulsion as a missionary to the non Nagas. I have been much pressurized to give some write up for the targeted groups particularly those who married other tribes or outsiders (nonNagas) because inter-marriage has become common in Nagaland and for the sake of those fellow non-Naga Christians who have accepted Christ as their personal saviour and those Christians wanting to know the word of God as our new Christian friends whom we consider more important persons to communicate, we are facing many difficulties in prayer meetings, preaching the gospel, the word of God etc as they cannot understand English or other Naga dialect. My Nagamese book is the outcome of our nature of work among the Hindu, Muslim, Sikhs and Buddhist particularly in Burma (Myanmar) Naga region. Those children and parents whose encouragement and suggestions have made it possible to bring out Nagamese books. I have invited every reader to give their opinion or any correction or suggestion for improvement of Nagamese language and many preachers have responded after reading the

book and most of them have requested me to write Nagamese Bible. Meantime, the All Burma Naga Baptist Churches Association has requested United Baptist Churches Association North East India and Christian Education Ministry Dimapur to translate New Testament for there is no single Bible in Burmese Naga language as they have received only 4 gospels ( Matthew, Mark, Luke and John ) which was translated by me in 2009 has reached Burma Naga region through some National workers.

The Government of Nagaland has adopted English as the State official language, but Nagamese has occupied the same State in Government administration unofficially - as a matter of fact majority of Naga people speak Nagamese which is broken Assamese mixed with English, Hindi, Bengali, Nepali, Urdu, Karbi, Kachari etc and is now becoming a common language in Nagaland.

The Burma Naga people has also adopted Nagamese as their common language. The Naga Students have rightly opposed the promotion of Nagamese in Nagaland when the Central Government proposed to promote it as an official language, stating that the intentions of the Centre to promote a language which had no originality. Yes it is true, but to know about the origin of the Nagamese language it is essential to study the relation of the Naga people with the Assamese speaking population in the neighbouring areas.

The Naga people had a relation with Assamese and that relation continued since the reign of the Ahom Kings.In our history, systematic historical records of the Nagas were not available during pre- Ahom period except some stray references here and there.

The Ahom Kingdom brought a far reaching relationship, with the Nagas which marked the turn from hostility to friendship. The first tribal people with whom the Ahom in Assam, came through the land of the Nagas in the beginning of the 13th century.

According to the Ahom Chronicles, Ahoms had to deal mostly with the Nagas since the establishment of their kingdom till the 17th century. The Nagas offended the Ahom kings from time to time and they also visited the Ahom kingdom. These Naga people lived in hilly region in between the rivers Dikhow and Burhidihing. The relationship of Ahom with the Nagas improved much towards the 17th century. During the reign of Suchinpha, some Khamingia Naga came and paid homage to the Ahom king at the Capital Gargaon and prayed for help to fight with their hostiles, viz. some Naga villages.

Thus, for the first time one of the restless Nagas tribe of the Patkai mountain, who were considered as the trouble makers towards the Ahom rulers for many times, visited the Ahom king at his capital and established friendly relations with him.

The Ahoms or Assamese relations inhabitants came into contact with the Nagas of the Doyang valley during the reign of Gadadhar Singha ( 1681- 1696 AD ) .These Naga population were undoubtedly the Lotha’s who lived by the side of Doyang river, which is very close to the plains. They showed their sentiments of loyalty to the Ahom King since their contact with Ahoms and respect for each other.

Besides, the custom of adoption of chil-

dren of other caste and martial relation with the hill tribes were prevailing during the Ahom regime. Sometimes the adopted children were placed in a superior position. The Dupgaria Naga presented three boys to the Burha Raja. Their names were Ao, Apam and Lachit. There are several references of martial relationship between the Ahoms and the Nagas. Previously, the Dihingiya Raja was residing in the hills he had a friendly relationship with a Khungaw of Banpheria Nagas named Karengpa. His daughter Changkun had some familiarity with the King’s household. A son was born to Changkun, who later became to be known as Tyachengmung. Then the King asked his ministers “The boy should find his place between you two Gohains, because he came of a Naga mother,” so be it, we accept him. There are many such instances of the martial relationship between the Assamese Princeses and the people. Likewise, many Naga men and women married to Nepalis, Bhutias, Bengalis, Kerelian, kanadian and even miya people and they speaks Nagamese to communicate at home. And no authority in heaven can stop this inter - marriage between Nagas and non - Nagas.

It will not be out of place to mention here that a talented and notable work done by Shri. Sankaradeva (1449-1569 AD) for creating amity between hills and plains. He also took his disciples from the hill people; among them Narottam of Naga,Gobinda of Garo and Balal of Mikir who were more prominent. There still exist some Naga villages in Sibsagar sub-division and Tirap district who are of Hindu religion. The migrated Nagas of the plains of Assam speaks Assamese and these same people speak Nagamese like the Nagas of Nagaland. The seven Sema villages at Margherita of Dibruguarh district, Gatum Goan and Ugiri Pykhuii Gaon (Konyak) at Sibsagar district are notable in this respect. Linguistically, they merged with the Assamese fold, also their acculturation is a notable feature.

Ahom reign ended with three Burmese invasions. During these invasions many Assamese took refuge in the Naga villages and some of them merged themselves with the Naga fold.Such Assamese people are found in Mokokchung, Dimapur district and even at Kohima districts and in the long run they are identified as Nagas, most of them have nicknames in Naga too.

As per the history, in the year 1826 the British occupied Assam and accordingly Ahom rule ended with. During this period, military expeditions were made to the Naga Hills. Yet Nagas relation with the Assamese was friendly and satisfactory. In a Government official letter, Lt. Col. Jenkins; wrote that “Our relations just now with the Nagas may be considered satisfactory, and I have nothing at present to suggest in reference to them.” There was a commercial communication between the plains and the hills. During the British period, the communications of the Nagas with Sibsagar improved and trade with the Naga villagers was extended.

With the advent of the British rule in Naga Hills, Assamese language was occupying some prominent places in the Naga society.

The British Government had to keep Assam Rifles and the Assam Police in Nagaland for smooth running of their administration, es-

pecially for the maintenance of law and order. Many of them hailed from rural areas of Kamrup and Goalpara districts. Moreover, civil staffs of the said army were mainly recruited from the plain districts of Assam.

During the British rule Assamese was introduced in the Govt.Schools of Nagaland.In this way, there was regular contact between the Naga tribes and the Assamese speaking population was mantained for centuries together. Thus Naga-Assamese came into existence. It is to be noted that the language adopts a Naga form in pronunciation and accentuation. As the people, who served in Nagaland in different capacities, belonged to different linguistic stock and as their mother tongues were different, they had to speak the common language of majority people i.c.

Naga- Assamese and this is mixed with different elements of those languages. This way Nagamese incorporated vocabulary from Hindi, Bengalis, English, Nepali, Urdu, Karbi, Kachari besides Assamese. The vocabulary from the local Naga dialects is rare except the local terms of fairs and festivals. The speakers of Lower Assam practically predominated the Nagamese dialect is easily identified particularly in accentuation, intonation and in the sentence structure. I have written the Anglo Nagamese Grammar ( the lingua franca of Nagaland in 2007 and revised edition in 2015 which is already circulated all over Nagaland and the Burma Naga people is using this book as Text Book in Schools in Roman script.

There may be some objection for Nagamese as language that it has no script, but there are written records, documents of Nagamese language which are found in Roman script which is also convenient in writing the language though with certain limitations. The dramas namely “ manuhor babe” etc, preserved in the All India Radio station, Kohima are written in the Roman script.The Naga film division has written “ Pagla Duniya”, Bosti manu” and the latest film heading “ My blood for the Nation”, has script in Nagamese.The book ‘ Nagaland ‘ by Navarnalati Chakravorty, a publication of Asom Sahitya Sabha is also written in the same script.

I want to inform the young esteem readers who are opposing the Nagamese language, that the Nagamese has already adopted as a communication among all section of people by the following Church organization 1.United Baptist Churches Association North East India 2. Christian Education Ministry, Dimapur (New Testament - Notun Niom Rev. N. Khashito Aye translation) and Church Hymnal) 3. The Nagamese Baptist Churches Association affiliated to NBCC has published (Nagamese Hymnal by NBCC, Kohima. 4.

The Nagaland Christian Rival Churches has published New Testament (Sam Kumar translation) There are many other ministry who has written several Books in Nagamese.

In fact, the Nagamese language is not thoroughly studied and explored by the linguistic. I am sure some of our young theological students are still in the manuscript forms. Some examples :- Nagamese into Anglo- Hindi- Ao ( July 1969) by D. Baruah is the first comprehensive work on lexicography which actually meets the need of the a handbook dictionary for learning three languages- Nagamese Hindi and English by the

Aos and others. Naga pidgin: A socio- linguistic study of Interlingua Communication pattern in Nagaland ( November 1974) by M. V. Sheerdhar is the product of the Central Institute of Indian Languages, Mysore, which throws some light on the grammatical aspects of the Nagamese language spoken by few Naga tribes.

Nagamese is considered as a common lingua- franca in Nagaland and the Nagas treat it as their most vital language for intercommunication. Further, it is observed that Nagamese was necessarily used as a medium in the discourses and reports of the momentous Naga National Convention held at Kohima in 19th January 1957.The Government of Nagaland considers Nagamese as an important language for publicity purposes, and it is always announced from their Broadcasting Centre, All India Radio station, Kohima. The importance of Nagamese is also laid down by some foreign writers like W.B. Smith, Hutton and Verrier Elwin. The European writer Hutton refers in his book that ‘indeed the Naga- Assamese language as used in the Naga Hills is peculiarly well adopted for the reproduction of Naga idioms, and a vehicle of interpretation it makes a far better linguafranca for the hills than Hindustani or English would,the substitution of which Assamese has been occasionally suggested by the Government. Moreover, Naga people continue to use Nagames in all public meetings and generally Nagamese has got its importance for national integration.

The influence of the Christian Missionaries, British occupation of Nagaland had great impact on the vocabulary of Nagamese language and it is continued till- today and will continue.For the information to young writer let me refer the Nagaland Legislative Assembly Rules and Procedure and conduct of Business in Nagaland Legislative Assembly Chapter V11 rules 28 says:- “The Business of the Assembly shall be transacted in English or in Naga-Assamese ( Nagamese) All the NPGs (underground) is using Nagamese.

Let me also remind our esteem students leader (NSF) That Nagamese is a mixture of Indian and Foreign Languages which which do not pose any threat to the Naga identity, as one of the Village Chief Mr. T. L. Angami has pointed out clearly in his rejoinder to NSF ( 24.1.2016. I also advised NSF and other writer not to play politics in Nagamese. In order to refresh your mind I want to cited one example when I filed PIL in the Supreme Court of India against “Corruption, Bribe system in appointment” in Nagaland NSF and Naga Hoho kept Mum” during 1990s and when we fight against 50% IAS, IPS for our Nagas, ILP issue during 1980’s our people did not support our movement. My dear Students leader, you have many other issue concerning to the welfare of the Students like “Backdoor appointment, Bribe system in the various department, unemployment, immorality etc.

What is really missing in our society is “Power of Students”. As a former Students leaders I advised the NSF not to misguide the younger generation.

The writer is Missionary to Non-Nagas, the author of Nagamese Grammar and translator of New Testament (Notun Niom) Rev. Dr. N. Khashito Aye 5th Mile, Dimapur

WHO HAS CAUSED DIVISION AND KILLING AMONG NAGAS?

I

am constrained to write this article to refute T. Patkaipa’s misinformed as well as twisted Naga history which appeared in his article in the Morung Express on Jan.16, 2016. He wrote the article arrogantly and with great pride in the NSCN-IM. I would however like to say that if he is proud of the NSCN-IM, he must be also proud of the thousands of Nagas whom the NSCN have killed.

Your leaders have brainwashed some young Nagas to think that fighting against their own fellow Naga is serving the Naga nation.

They (Muivah and Isak) first killed our leader Brig. Ngam Lao on 3rd December 1975 at the 2nd Brigade Headquarters of Kachin Independent Army (KIA) because he refused to support Muivah’s socialism. He was the first victim killed by Muivah for opposing his socialism. While returning from China, Brig.

Ngamlao had said, we should establish the Naga Army base in Eastern Nagaland, but should not allow Th. Muivah to be with us because his presence in Eastern Nagaland would cause something wrong among the Nagas. What he had foreseen and predicted exactly happened among the Nagas. Can you- a Konyak- be proud of the killing of our own good leaders by Muivah?

If Muivah was not in Eastern Nagaland with Naga Army, no killing among Nagas would have happened. But because he was there in Eastern Nagaland, and his policy was wrongly supported by the then Col. Khole Konyak and Khaplang, their support enabled Muivah to form the NSCN from the Eastern Nagaland soil. From then on, he started killings the Nagas. If the two leaders (Khaplang and Khole) did not support him, Muivah can do nothing in Eastern Nagaland. Also if Brig.

Ngam Lao was not killed, Muivah could not have formed the NSCN from Eastern Nagaland. So we have to regret the killing of our leader Brig. Ngam Lao, and for the wrong support given by Khaplang and Khole to Muivah’s socialism.

What are the achievements of NSCN-IM for which you are proud of? For me and for the Nagas, killing Nagas and attempting to sell out Nagaland to India is not any achievements, but an act of treason. The Nagas know that the NNC had built up the Naga nation,

but the NSCN-IM is trying to destroy it.

Your leaders did not tell the true Naga national history to you, therefore most of the NSCN soldiers do not know the true history of our Naga people. Your leaders do not want to talk about our past history because it will reveal their wrong misdeeds. They are therefore saying: “No need to talk of the past history, we should instead be marching ahead with the changing world. But I would say, to tell the past events and history is necessary so that our young people may understand perfectly the root cause of the conflict with India and also the problem among the Nagas which has been created by mischievous leaders like Th. Muivah.

On the part of India, India is saying that the conflict between India and Nagaland is a case of secession and it is an internal affair of India. But the Nagas know that it is a case of aggression and invasion and not an internal affair of India. Also your NSCN leaders are saying that the Shillong Accord was the root cause of killings and division among the Nagas. But NNC and FGN can clearly show that the formation of NSCN (and not the Shillong Accord) was the main cause of the division and killings among brothers. It is true that a Shillong Accord was signed in 1975 and NSCN was formed after that. But which one caused the division and killings among the Nagas is needed to be proven by history. So I would state the facts as follows: Your leaders had been distorting Naga history. Your history was started from 1980 and was called a revolutionary movement. That means your leaders revolted against the NNC and FGN- your own Government and your own nation. This is completely different from what the Naga national stand is. As for your leaders, they had been demanding autonomous status, integration, greater Nagaland, supra state, and shared sovereignty one after the other. Such demands are portraying the Indo-Naga conflict as an internal affair of India.

By doing so, your leaders are helping India by portraying Nagas as rebels demanding a greater status within India. That is why your leaders got peace bonus from India and with that they have built up their luxurious lives.

In your article you have talked about Shillong Accord but you do not know under what

circumstances it was signed and also why it was not implemented by India. But one thing that you have stated is true that Muivah and Isak condemned the Accord and it died. Surely then, if the Shillong Accord is dead, even the first clause of the accord that you are accusing the NNC and FGN of being guilty should also have died with the death of the Accord. As the accord is dead, what has been written in the accord has also died with it and we need not to talk of it anymore. So, what you have talked about the first clause of the accord is nonsense and foolish.

If you want to know more about this dead Shillong Accord you may also refer to what Naga Army ex-General Thinoselie M. Keyho has written for the NSCN IM leaders and soldiers in his article which appeared in the Morung Express on 18th January 2016.

You have also stated this in your article that Isak and Muivah condemned the Shillong Accord and that the accord is now dead because they have condemned it. But please remember that Muivah and Isak condemned the accord while they were still in the NNC and FGN. They were at that time the General Secretary of NNC and Foreign Minister of the FGN. Therefore the record and credit of condemning the Shilling Accord goes to the NNC and FGN because Muivah and Isak condemned it while still under NNC and FGN. On the part of the FGN who were still holding the home government at that time in Nagaland, they also issued a statement on 30th December 1975 where President Zashei on behalf of the FGN had clearly stated that because of Article 139 and 140 of the Naga Yehzabo, his government cannot accept clause 1 and 3 of the Shillong Accord. (Articles 139 and 140 of the Naga Yehzabo clearly state that only the Central Executive Council of the NNC can decide on the fate of the nation). This meant that clause 1&3 of the Shillong Accord cannot be used as a basis for any settlement between the GOI and FGN. This statement was given by the FGN President after the Federal Emergency meeting held at Dihoma from Nov. 29 to Dec. 2, 1975. The statement was handed over to the Governor of Nagaland on Jan.3, 1976. The record for the condemning and rejecting of the Shillong Ac-

cord is therefore not only Muivah and Isak, but also President Zashei Huire on behalf of the Federal Government of Nagaland. These condemnation and rejections of the Shillong Accord was not at all an NSCN IM record because NSCN or NSCN IM did not exist at that time (1975/76). Please remember that NSCN was formed only on Jan 31, 1980 and NSCN IM in May 1988. Therefore, neither the NSCN nor the NSCN IM were anywhere in the picture when the Shillong Accord was condemned in the 1970’s.

Condemnation of the Shillong Accord is also not the record of those who are calling themselves as “Non-Accordists” today. This is because all these so called “Non Accordist” were also with the NNC and FGN when the accord was condemned. It was only after they were driven out from the Peace camps (by the Indian Government) for having taken rehabilitation money that they started calling those who were in the Peace camps as “Accordist” and themselves as “Non-Accordist.” In fact, those who were driven away from the Peace camps by the Indian Government are the Accordist because they had already accepted rehabilitation from the Indian Government.

Finally, it should also be remembered that what Zashei did as the President of the FGN was done on Dec. 30, 1975 which is before Isak and Muivah returned home from abroad on January 6, 1976 into Langkhiang area in Eastern Nagaland. These then are the true facts of the Shillong Accord which had been grossly twisted and distorted by Muivah and Isak.

According to all the real facts, the records of the NNC and FGN are clean. In fact in that clean history of the NNC and FGN, even Th. Muivah and Isak, the then, NNC General Secretary and Finance Minister themselves kept the NNC and FGN’s record clean by condemning the Accord. Why then are they now saying that the NNC has failed to uphold the trust of the people? The NNC did not fail to uphold the trust of the people. It is they -Muivah and Isak who have failed to uphold the trust of the people. They threw away the trust and mandate of the people when they defected from the NNC and formed another political organization without the mandate

of the Naga nation. That is the true history of our Nagas which many of you have failed to understand. After they themselves kept the record of NNC clean, why did they reject the NNC is a question that must be answered by them to the present Nagas as well as to the relatives of all who have laid down their lives for the Naga nation.

Another question is; why have some Nagas including our Konyak people rejected the NNC/FGN? What was the reason for them to reject the NNC/FGN? Was it because Isak and Muivah had rejected it that they too had to do so? Indeed, Isak and Muivah have done it for their own interest. But what is the interest of these people for rejecting the NNC, which is the only authentic political institution of our nation? In September 2011, one of our Konyak leaders stated that our leaders had done wrong to condemn the NNC for the dead Shillong Accord. His statement was true, and we have no reason to reject or condemn the NNC. Another question is: Have these people rejected the NNC for its non-violence policy and maintaining Peace? Yes, your leaders once arrogantly rejected the non-violence policy of NNC, saying; “We rule out the illusion of saving Nagaland through peaceful means. It is arms and arms again that will save our nation and ensure freedom to the people”.

Why then are you now staying in designated Camps? If you are also staying in the so-called designated Camps, why are you condemning the other Nagas who are maintaining peace for the interest of peaceful solution to the Indo-Naga conflict?

We can fight our enemy through peaceful means with the might of historical facts and truth. Our people’s 99.9% verdict to remain independent shown through the national Plebiscite of 16th May 1951 is still intact and valid. This should not be nullified by demanding shared sovereignty or autonomy.

The world is now on our favor and we can hope for solving our problem through peaceful means. So stop alleging false accusation against your own people and fighting against the NNC. Capt. (Retd.) Longshah Konyak , Member , Central Executive Council, NNC

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.

tuesday 02•02•2016

EntErtainmEnt

Coldplay accused of cultural appropriation in new video

Fans brought ‘Deadpool’ to the big screen: Ryan Reynolds

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ilming the music video for their song ‘Hymn For The Weekend’ in India with an intention to honour its vibrant and mystical hues, Coldplay and Beyonce have sparked debate on social media, with people saying the video is a ‘stereotypical’ portrayal of the country.

The latest single from the band’s seventh album ‘A Head Full of Dreams’ was directed by Ben Mor, trying to capture India for a Western audience.

The video embodied many Indian stereotypes including frontman Chris Martin covered in colour during the Indian festival Holi, fire breathing and brightly dressed puppeteers.

A collaborative effort from the band and Beyonce, the video involves the pop singer portraying a Bollywood actress with a poster of her film ‘Rani’ on the billboards. She has henna covering her hands and is wearing traditional Desi clothing.

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While there are many fans who have applauded the band for showcasing the many colours of India in an elaborate way, there are some who have

slammed the video for cultural appropriation.

Cultural appropriation, particularly of Desi traditions has become increasingly prominent in the

media, with several artists being accused of such - including Iggy Azalea for her video ‘Bounce’ and Selena Gomez for ‘Come and Get it’.

The video also briefly

featured a cameo from actual Bollywood actress Sonam Kapoor, with people questioning as to why Kapoor wasn’t chosen for Beyonce’s role instead.

The story that Katrina Kaif wants Tom Hanks named America’s most popular movie star most to read about herself

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mid speculations of her break-up with rumoured boyfriend Ranbir Kapoor, actress Katrina Kaif said that she is disheartened to read stuff about her personal life and feels that until one is not married, that person is single.

Ranbir and Katrina never came on record about their relationship. They were earlier seen together at each other’s family functions, besides attending events and screenings together.

“It’s disheartening to read stories on personal life. You would rather like to read a breaking news that we all have come to an agreement that Katrina Kaif is one the top five actresses in the world. I would want this to be the story,” Katrina said in an in-

terview in Mumbai.

“I am like every woman. When you are working you want to be spoken about your career, your work. Every actor knows that their personal life will be spoken about, it comes along that way,” she said.

The Bang Bang! actress, who has not commented on her rumoured break-up with Ranbir, said: “I have said this earlier and I say it again, I believe until you are not married you are single. I am not married yet. I am not engaged as well.” (Also Read: We Asked Katrina Kaif About Valentine’s Day and Secret Admirers) The actress will next be seen in Abhishek Kapoor’s Fitoor, also starring Aditya Roy Kapur.

yan Reynolds, Deadpool, Ryan Reynolds films, Deadpool cast, Deadpool news, Ryan Reynolds fans, entertainment news A still from “Deadpool”.

Ryan Reynolds has credited movie fans with helping to get his dream project “Deadpool” into production after 11 years of delays. The “Green Lantern” star was given the chance to reprise his role as an X-Men mutant in the

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uperstar Tom Hanks has been crowned America’s favorite movie star in a new online countdown. Hanks, 59, whose latest film ‘The Bridge of Spies’ is up for six Oscars, topped a Harris Poll that surveyed more than 2,200 adults in the US about the best Hollywood actor-actress, reported Variety. Hanks also nabbed the title in 2002, 2004, 2005 and 2013. Jumping up two spots from last year, Johnny Depp was runner-up.

Depp portrayed notorious gangster Whitey Bulger in 2015’s ‘Black Mass’. Neither Hanks nor Depp is up for ctress Sonam Kapoor, who is a best actor Oscar, despite early buzz surrounding their prepping for her upcoming film performances. Both were also snubbed for a Golden “Neerja”, is campaigning against Globe nomination. Denzel Washington, who was absent fear on social media platforms. from the big screen in 2015 and topped last year’s list, fell two positions to America’s third favorite movie star. The The “Prem Ratan Dhan Payo” actress up‘Training Day’ actor was honored with the coveted Cecil loaded a less than a minute video on Instagram, where she urged her fans and folB DeMille Award earlier this month at the Globes.

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Leonardo has praised “inspiring and revolutionary” Pope Francis and described meeting him as an “incredible honour”.

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eonardo DiCaprio has praised “inspiring and revolutionary” Pope Francis.

The ‘Revenant’ actor - who is a staunch environmental campaigner - was granted a private audience with the head of the Catholic Church last Thursday (28.01.16) and it was an “incredible honour” for the 41-year-old star to meet with him.

Speaking backstage at the Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards last night (30.01.16),

Leonardo said: “He’s been inspiring and revolutionary, to come out and be outspoken about the issue of climate change and endorse the scientific community.

“We have 99% of the scientific community now saying climate change exists and it’s caused by mankind. Anyone who doesn’t believe in climate change doesn’t believe in science.

So the fact that he has come out as the spiritual leader endorsing the scientific

movement is unprecedented, and it was an incredible honour to meet him.”

During the meeting, the ‘Wolf of Wall Street’ star reportedly presented the Pope with a donation from his foundation and a hardback book jam-packed with Dutch painter Hieronymus Bosch’s stunning art work.

Climate change is a subject very close to Leonardo’s heart as he recently pumped $15 million from his own foundation to con-

– it took 11 years. We even made a taster but that sat on the shelf for four years until someone leaked it on the web and then within 24 hours it got the green light.

I tried to make it happen for all that time but the fans got it made,” he said.

“Deadpool”, due out later this year, stars Ryan as the title character and his alter-ego Wade Wilson, a cancer-stricken mercenary who becomes an indestructible mutant following a genetic experiment.

Sonam campaigns against fear

Leonardo Dicaprio Praises Pope Francis

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spin-off in the comic book film franchise in 2009, five years after the project was first mooted.

However, the production was hit with a series of delays, including fears the script was too dark and violent, and it was only when a small sample of the intended movie was leaked online that Hollywood bosses realised the support for the film and gave it the go-ahead.

“It’s the best and worst relationship I’ve ever had

lowers to share a clip of themselves talking about their fears and how they overcame it.

“Hi everybody, I have a request, I want you to talk about your fear and how you overcame it. Neerja’s fear gave her courage. The best videos you put out I will post.

It will give other people courage to face their fears,” Sonam said in the video.

She captioned the video: “Hi everyone.

I often wonder how fear gave Neerja courage. I would love to hear your stories in 15 second Instagram videos.”

“The most fascinating and touching stories will be posted by me, so that your stories can inspire other people to overcome their fears. You can be also be #Neerja. Use #fearvsneerja when you post.”

“Neerja” is a biopic on Neerja Bhanot, a valiant Indian flight attendant who lost her own life, but saved the lives of passengers during a hijack. The Ram Madhvani-directorial features Sonam as Neerja, a Pan Am chief purser who was gunned down by terrorists when Flight 73 was hijacked in Karachi in 1986. She saved a number of lives, but lost her own. The film is set to release on February 19.

Selena hopes she will “eventually” make a song with Taylor Swift

servation projects around the globe.

The Hollywood hunk - who set up the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation (LDF) in 1998 to protect the world’s last wild places - confirmed his donation in the speech recently, insisting “generosity” is vital when it comes to the world’s future. LDF has awarded $30 million grants and supported more than 65 organisations since it was founded.

Cindy Crawford Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma to retire from part ways before Valentines! modelling

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upermodel Cindy Crawford, who will turn 50 this month, may be getting ready to “move on” from modelling. She has suggested that retirement may be quickly approaching, reports eonline.com.

“I feel like I’m allowing that to have been great, and I’m celebrating it. And I’m sure I’ll have my picture taken for 10 more years, but not as a model anymore. And that’s okay,” she was quoted as saying by United Airlines’ Rhapsody magazine.

“I’ve done it. I’ve worked with all these incredible photographers. What else do I need to do?

I can’t keep reinventing myself. I shouldn’t have to keep proving myself. I don’t want to,” she added. For the past several months, Crawford has been hard at work supporting her book “Becoming Cindy Crawford”. In her latest interview, she admits that the work was a way to bid farewell to her days as a model.

“Maybe not say goodbye,” she explained, “but move on”.

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fter B-town’s most popular couple, Ranbir KapoorKatrina Kaif break-up, another couple has been get affected with the same virus and that too just before Valentines. Well, we are talking about none but India Test skipper Virat Kohli and Bollywood ac-

tress Anushka Sharma.

If reports are to be believed, then duo has stopped following each other on Instagram.

ANushka and Virat who were dating each other for quite some time now, had reportedly planned for a wedding this year. However, now looks like there is no

wedding coming up!

Apart from them, reports are that Arbaaz Khan and Malaika Arora Khan are also heading for a divorce after spending 17 years together. With so many break ups that too in the beginning of the year, this Valentines is going to be different for sure.

f there’s one musical collaboration fans have been begging for, it’s the combination of Selena Gomez and Taylor Swift . Sure they’ve posed on red carpets together.

And yes, they’ve appeared in the same music videos.

But is there any chance the pop superstars will make a song together?

“Oh, I don’t know. I mean, eventually, right?”

Selena told E! News at the Sundance Film Festival.

“She’s my best friend. We’ll see.”

While it may not be a flat-out yes, it certainly isn’t a denial either. Perhaps we just need to give it time for Selena who has a few bigscreen projects on the horizon.

On Friday evening, the actress was able to support

her upcoming film The Revised Fundamentals of Caregiving. It’s a project that impressed her from the very beginning.

“I completely fell in love with the vulnerability and the angst that [my character] had. I don’t know what that says about me but I responded to it,” she shared with E! News. “When I met [director Rob Burnett], I don’t think he would of put somebody like me in that character but I auditioned three times, I fought for it and I knew that it was something that would mean a lot.”

She continued, “What the story represents is really touching. It’s about three broken people and everybody’s dealing with stuff and I think people can relate to that so I’m excited.”

12

tuesDAY 02•02•2016

SPORTS

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Terry to leave at end of season Guardiola to be Man City

LonDon, February 1 (reuters): Chelsea captain John Terry will leave the Premier League champions when his contract expires at the end of the season, he told British media on Sunday.

"It’s not going to be a fairytale ending, I’m not going to retire at Chelsea,” Terry was quoted as saying after his side's 5-1 win over Milton Keynes Dons in the FA Cup fourth round.

"I was in last week before the Arsenal game and it (Chelsea contract) is not going to be extended. It’s a no at the minute.

"I needed to know now like I have done every January and sometimes it takes a couple of months to get done. Unfortunately it was a no. It took me a couple of days to get over.

"But I knew before the Arsenal game and my performance isn't going to change - the way I train, what I give for the club.

"I want to give everything and finish on a high.

I couldn't play for another Premiuer League club, it will be elsewhere for sure," he was quoted as saying on C M Y

manager next season

Chelsea's John Terry applauds the fans at the end of their game against MK Dons on Sunday. (Reuters)

British media websites.

Chelsea were not immediately available for comment.

The 35-year-old Terry, who has spent his entire

career at Chelsea making almost 700 appearances, apart from a brief loan spell at Nottingham Forest when he was a teenager, has been the most successful skipper

in the club's history.

Terry, who made his debut as a substitute in a League Cup tie versus Aston Villa in October 1998, has led them to victory in the Cham-

pions League, won four Premier League titles, five FA Cups and three League Cups as well as the Europa League.

He also played 78 times for England, scoring six goals.

Manchester, February 1 (Ians): Outgoing coach of German champions Bayern Munich, Pep Guardiola, on Monday agreed to a threeyear contract to become English football club Manchester City's new manager from the next season.

The 45-year-old will replace current City coach Manuel Pellegrini, who will leave on June 30.

"Manchester City can confirm that in recent weeks it has commenced and finalized contractual negotiations with Pep Guardiola to become MCFC head coach for the 2016/17 EPL season onwards," the club said in an official statement on Monday.

"The contract is for three years. These negotiations were a re-commencement of discussions that were curtailed in 2012.

Out of respect for Manuel Pellegrini and the players, the club wishes to make its decision public to remove the unnecessary burden of speculation," the statement said.

Pellegrini succeeded

Pep Guardiola (REUTERS)

Italian Roberto Mancini in 2013 and took the club to an English Premier League and League Cup double the following season.

He has won 64 of his 99 Premier League games as a manager, a record only eclipsed by Portuguese coach Jose Mourinho, who won 73 of his opening 99 league games at Chelsea.

City are in contention to win four trophies under Pellegrini this season.

They are already through to the final of the League Cup and are second in the league behind

Leicester City.

They are also through to the knockout stages of the Champions League and will play Chelsea in the fifth round of the Football Association (FA) Cup. City said Pellegrini was supportive of the decision and took it in good stead.

"Manuel, who is fully supportive of the decision to make this communication, is entirely focused on achieving his targets for the season ahead and retains the respect and commitment of all involved with the leadership of the Club."

Kohima town inter ward football & volleyball tourney 12th SAG torch relay flagged off in Kohima

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Minister for PWD (R&B) Y. Vikheho Swu, minister for environment, forests and Dr. Neikiesalie (Nicky) Kire and others with the players and officials of the inaugural football match on February 1. (Morung Photo) Our Correspondent

25-15; Ward No 3 beat Ward No 16 by the people closer.

25-20, 25-22; Ward No 2 beat Ward No Gracing the inaugural function Kohima | February 1 10 by 25-18, 19-25, 25-23; and Ward as the chief guest, Minister for PWD The 4th edition of Kohima town In(R&B) Y Vikheho Swu urged FIXTURES FOR FEBRUARY 2: ter Ward Men’s Football and WomNaga sportspersons to be dedien’s Volleyball Tournament 2016 cated. He also stressed on the Men’s Football under the aegis NPF 9th Kohima need to institute “Best Naga Ward No 15 vs Ward No 19 @ 9am Town A/C with the theme “Unity Award” to recognize the achievWard No 6 vs Ward No 7 @ 10:40 am and Friendship through Sports ers in the different fields.

Ward No 10 vs Ward No 13 @ 12:20pm and Music” got underway here this Minister for Environment, Ward No 1 vs Ward No 4 @ 2:20pm morning at Kohima Local Ground.

Forests and Climate change Dr. On the first day of the tourNeikiesalie (Nicky) Kire said that Women’s Volleyball nament, Ward No 14 beat Ward this tournament has been deWard No 18 vs Ward No 14 @ 9am No 2 by 4 goals to 2 in the mens signed for everybody and asked Ward No 17 vs Ward No 4 football match. The goal scorers everyone to actively partake in Ward No 2 vs Ward No 12 for Ward 14 were Mhashikhoto this weeklong event, which will Ward No 11 vs Ward No 15 Pinyo, Vikhosa Dul and Povil. go on till February 6.

Ward No 19 vs winner of Ward No 18/14 Viluyi and Khriesamhalie scored Earlier, Zotuo Kire, president Ward No 13 vs winner of Ward No 17/4 the two goals for ward 2.

NPF 9th Kohima Town A/C deIn the second match of the inau- No 11 beat Ward No 7 by 25-17, 26-24 livered welcome address while Xavier gural day, Ward No 8 beat Ward No This tournament, initiated by Rutsa compered the inaugural function.

17 by 2 goals to nil. Megovilie Miasal- Minister for Environment, Forests Meanwhile, the Inter Ward womhou scored both the goals for ward 8 and Climate Change Dr. Neikiesalie en singing competition will be held at in their victory.

(Nicky) Kire, was started in 2010 with the State Academy Hall on February 3 In the womens volley ball match- an objective to facilitate the spirit of while the Band competition will take es: Ward No 19 beat Ward 9 by 25-16, oneness, fostering unity and bring place on February 4.

India rest in-form Kohli for T20 series v Sri Lanka neW DeLhI, February 1 (reuters): India are resting batting mainstay Virat Kohli for the three 20-over matches against Sri Lanka this month with an eye on the Twenty20 World Cup on home soil. Kohli, the world's top-ranked Twenty20 batsman, enjoyed a prolific run of form to help India complete a 3-0 series whitewash in Australia on Sunday. With Mahendra Singh Dhoni's men kicking

off their bid for a second Twenty20 World Cup in six weeks, the team have decided to rest Kohli who was top-scorer in the series in Australia.

India recalled Bhuvneshwar Kumar after the paceman sustained a thumb injury in Australia and missed the Twenty20 series. Leftarm spinner Pawan Negi received his first call-up to the India squad who play Sri Lanka in the first Twenty20 International in Pune on

Feb. 9. Ranchi and Visakhapatnam host the other matches.

Squad: Mahendra Singh Dhoni (captain), Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, Ajinkya Rahane, Manish Pandey, Suresh Raina, Yuvraj Singh, Hardik Pandya, Ravindra Jadeja, Ravichandran Ashwin, Jasprit Bumrah, Ashish Nehra, Harbhajan Singh, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Pawan Negi.

KohIMa, February 1 (DIPr): The 12th South Asian Games (SAG) Torch Relay was flagged off at TT Stadium which culminated at local ground, Kohima on February 1.

Team leader of the Torch Relay, Basmajit in his brief address at local ground said that the torch relay is a pre-programme of the 12th SAG which will be held from February 5 to 16 at Guwahati and Shillong.

The torch arrived from the Delhi on January 20. The relay had started from Shillong covering the entire North East and will finally the torch will arrive at Guwahati for the opening ceremony. Basmajit extended his gratitude to Nagaland for organizing the torch relay programe in a grand manner. Chief Minister

T.R. Zeliang, who is also the President of Nagaland IOC, along with Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change, Dr. Neikiesalie Nicky Kire; Minister for Roads & Bridges, Vikheho Swu; Parliamentary Secretary for Youth Resources & Sports, Khriehu Liezietsu; Parliamentary Secretary

for Soil & Water Conservation, Pukhayi, Parliamentary Secretary for Economics & Statistics, Municipal Affairs, R. Tohanba and State Chief Secretary, Pankaj Kumar, IAS attended the torch relay programme.

Renowned sports persons from the State, students from different schools, col-

leges, NSS volunteers, NCC cadets, Bharat Scouts & Guides, NYKs, Indira Gandhi Stadium Academy, dignitaries and officials of the state government participated in the relay. The programme was organised by the Department of Youth Resources & Sports (YRS) Nagaland.

PDVFA leaves for NVFA tourney

KohIMa, February 1(Mexn): The Phek District Veteran Football Association (PDVFA) Team XI left for Wokha today here at Academy Hall, Kohima to partake in the 7th edition of the Nagaland Veteran Football Association (NVFA) tournament schedule to start from 2nd February onwards.

According to a press statement issued by PDVFA Press Secretary Kuzhovesa Soho, a 23 member team led

by President Salie Khesoh, Team Manager Yeveyi Sapuh and Team Coach Nesahu Rhakho all set to participate in the ensuing tourney along the following

The PDVFA team who will be participating at the NVFA tourney.

players at Wokha whci will be hpsted by Wokha District Veteran Football Association (WDVFA).

The player team squad includes, Zhokhosa Keyho, Kuveduyi Venuh, Shekhota

Vero, Vikaho Chophy, Meren Ozukum, Mongothong Shitio, Rukuhu Nienu, Kudechoyi Venuh, Yanbemo Lotha, Vemudo Lala, Vesikho Hoshi, Vekhoto Rhakho, Kedukhape, Kunekhoyi

Chuzho, Zashekho D. Vadeo, Er. Abija Kjing-vice president, Cepfuzu Curha-Asst.

Team Manager, Rev. Dr. Vevo Phesao-Team Chaplain and Vedusayi Soho-Asst. Team Chaplain.

Defending champions leave for Veteran Football Tourney at Wokha Morung Express News Mokokchung | February 1

Two times champion, and defending champion, Mokokchung District Veteran Football Association (MDVFA) today left for Wokha to participate in the 7th edition of the Nagaland Inter-district Veteran Football Tournament to be held from February 2-5, 2015.

The strong twenty-two member contingent comprising of players, supports staffs and officials were formally sent off by the MDVFA president Aotemsu NPS (Sr Superintendent of Police Mokokchung) and others. The Mokokchung District Football Association (MDFA) officials were also present at the flagging off programme; some of the MDFA officials accompanied the contingent as to render moral support to

Mokokchung District Veteran Football Association (MDVFA) contingent being flagged off by its president, Aotemsu NCS (Sr Superintendent of Police, Mokokchung) in the presence of MDFA officials and others at Imkongmeren Sports Complex, Mokokchung on Monday, 01 February, 2016. (Morung Photo)

the defending champions.

The MDVFA team is led

by Manager, Limanungsang Jamir and Assistant Manager, Temjenchuba. The football team is led by Temjen as the team captain and Imsu Jamir as the coach.

It may be noted here that the Mokokchung District

Veteran Football Association is the defending champion of the annual Nagaland Inter-district Veteran Football Tournament held in different district every year for the past six years. The MDVFA has lifted the trophy a few years back too making them a two time champions.

It is expected that the MDVFA team, which is one of the most active veteran football associations in Nagaland, will be a favorites in the tournament besides the Dimapur VFA and others.

The tournament will conclude on Friday, February 5, 2016.

Published, Printed and Edited by Dr. Aküm Longchari from House No. 4, Duncan Bosti, Dimapur at Themba Printers and Morung Publications , Padum Pukhuri Village, Dimapur, Nagaland.

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