January 4th, 2017

C M Y K

C M Y K

www.morungexpress.com

WednesdAY • JAnuArY 04 • 2017

DIMAPUR • Vol. XII • Issue 02 • 12 PAGes • 5

T H e

ESTD. 2005

P o W e R

Greatness must be worked for and won by each new generation

— Norm Augustine

PAGe 09

PAGe 03

By Sandemo Ngullie

T R u T H

Christmas message leads Defoe punishes Liverpool, to death threats & a police Man United sink Hammers case in Pakistan

Senapati: 14 injured as public pickets govt offices

reflections

o F

PAGE 12

nagaland UlB polls: civil societies-state Govt face off

Nagaland State Cabinet says process of election to ULBs to be completed Decides to have “more dialogue and consultations” with tribe based apex organizations

So are we ‘for or against’ the ULB election? By the way why aren’t you wearing goggles?

Volunteers of Angami Youth Organization keeping vigil around ‘Y’ Junction Kohima which is en-route to DC office Kohima in a bid to boycott the municipal and town election process on Tuesday. (Morung Photo)

The Morung Express PoLL QUESTion

Morung Express news

If the Naga public were to awaken from their silence and voice out their rights, do you think 2017 will witness changes?

has turned into a face-off between men dominated civil societies and tribe organisations, and the Nagaland State Government.

The Naga civil societies led by the Naga Hoho has been opposing the civic elections with 33% women reservation on the contention that it is a direct infringement of Naga customary laws and traditional practices and Article 371-A of the Indian Constitution.

Amid heated debates, the Nagaland government introduced the Nagaland Municipal (Third Amendment) Bill 2016 in the Assembly and revoked the Assembly Resolution of September 22, 2012 regarding to 33% women reservation in municipalities during the NLA winter session 2016 held in November.

The Nagaland State Government had time and again tried to convince that the municipal election with the adopted 33% reservation in no way infringes on Naga customary laws, but tribe based organisations refused to concur.

The Government also went into an overdrive to inaugurate a number of town councils, that by the end of 2016, there were three municipal councils and 29 town councils, almost double the numbers to the then existing urban local bodies. The Centre is expected to sanction at least Rs 40 crore as grant annually for their development.

With the arrival of the date for filing of nominations, fixed from January 3 onwards, Naga civil society organisations, have collectively opposed the Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) election with 33% women reservation.

Organisations that have opposed the ULB election in its current form include, among others, the Naga Hoho, Ao Senden, Angami Public Organization,

Dimapur | January 3

Vote on www.morungexpress.com The long overdue municipal and town council election in Nagaland, now SMS your anSwer to 9862574165 scheduled to be held in February 2017,

Yes

no

others

Woman dies as quake hits NE AGArtAlA/GuwAhAti/ShillonG, JAnuAry 3 (iAnS): A woman was killed and some others were injured in Tripura when a 5.7-magnitude earthquake hit India's northeastern region and Bangladesh on Tuesday. There was no report of any major damage from other states, officials said.

Kamalini Kanda, 50, died of heart attack out of fear during the tremor at Kamalpur in Dhalai district in Tripura, an official of the Tripura Disaster Management Centre said.

Five other people were injured in different parts of the state during the quake.

The official said at least 50 house were damaged, some badly, as landslides occurred in different places of Dhalai district. The earthquake blocked roads after trees were uprooted.

The quake hit most states of the northeastern region at 2.39 p.m., triggering panic. Its epicentre was said to be Dhalai in northern Tripura with a depth of 28 km.

Cracks developed in some old buildings, including a few police stations, in Kamalpur and Salema in Dhalai district.

A report from Dhaka said a moderate earthquake measuring 5.5 magnitude on the Richter scale hit Bangladesh, including capital Dhaka.

The US Geological Survey said it measured 5.5 on the Richter scale but Indian Met Department said the intensity was 5.7, Bangladesh's online news agency bdnews24 reported. The tremor lasted four to five seconds.

E xper ts consider India's mountainous northeast the sixth major quake-prone belt in the world. The region has seen some of the biggest quakes in history. In 1897, a Shillong-epicentred quake measured 8.2 on the Richter scale. In 1950, an earthquake in Assam measuring 8.7 on the Richter Scale forced the mighty Brahmaputra river to change its course. In September 2011, Sikkim suffered heavy damage after a quake hit the state.

Eastern Nagaland People’s Organization, Central Nagaland Tribes Council, Sumi Hoho and its frontal organizations, Chakhroma Public Organization, Angami Youth Organization, Kohima Village Council, Southern Angami Public Organization, Chumoukedima Village Council, Medziphema Town Mechu Krotho and the Naga Council Dimapur.

On Tuesday, the Chakhesang Public Organization joined the fray to boycott the Municipal Council/Town Council election process within its jurisdiction. It directed respective Village Council Chairman to refrain its members from participating in the Municipal/Town Council elections. “Any Chakhesang violating this decision shall be ex-communicated from the community and further actions shall be taken as deem fit. The Chakhesang Youth Front is empowered to enforce the above resolution,” the CPO stated.

The organizations also cautioned political parties and intending candidates to refrain from filing nominations unless an understanding is reached between the State Government and them, stated the APO, various Tribal Hohos and other Naga civil societies. “If any candidate files the nominations papers without honouring the KVC and APO resolution will be doing so at their own risk and he or she will be responsible entirely,” a press statement from Kohima Village Youth Organization read.

In another press statement, the Lotha Hoho cautioned all intending candidates for Wokha and Bhandari Town Councils that they would be violating the decision of the Hoho if they file nomination papers and would be doing so at “his/her own personal risk.”

No nomination papers filed in Dmp, Khm & Mkg The cautionary diktats against filing of nomination papers from various organizations seemed to have desired effect as indicated by the zero filing of nomination papers in the districts of

Kohima, Dimapur and Mokokchung on the first day.

In Dimapur, on the first day of opening nominations for the civic body polls, altogether 86 intending candidates collected nomination papers for the 23 wards under Dimapur Municipal Council elections.

However, till 2pm on Tuesday, not a single nomination had been filed. This was informed by the Returning Officer (RO), Elizabeth Ngully, who is also ADC Dimapur. Out of the 86 forms, 29 were collected by intending female candidates while 57 forms were collected by intending male candidates, she said.

The RO informed that the polls would be held through ballot papers and that appointment of other poll officials have started. She said security arrangement for the elections were also ongoing.

Meanwhile, supporting the APO’s boycott call, the AYO started its boycott.

In the state capital Kohima, AYO delegated its volunteers around ‘Y’ Junction which is en-route to DC office, Kohima. The AYO said it will boycott the elections within Angami jurisdiction “until an amicable solution to the ongoing imbroglio is arrived at.” It hoped that the Government of Nagaland will “come to its sense and listen to the voice of the Naga people.”

According to a DPRO report, ADC and RO Kohima Municipal Council, Lithrongla Tongpi informed that no nomination paper in respect of Kohima Town Council Election was received from any candidate on the first day of filling the Nomination Paper till 3pm. The RO also informed that a total number of 26 forms had been issued as on January 3.

The same case scenario was reported from Mokokchung district. Filing of nomination paper for the Mokokchung Municipal Council and Town councils in Mokokchung district began amidst boycott of the process by the Ao Senden.

According to ADC & RO, Mokokchung, no nomination paper was re-

Home Ministry submits report on Manipur situation

Traditional slate roofing of houses fast new Delhi, JAnuAry 3 (iAnS): The Union Home disappearing from Ministry has submitted a detailed report to the Election Naga areas Commission on the untoward incidents in Manipur before the state elections. "The Home Ministry has apprised the Election Commission about the prevailing blockade by the Nagas under the banner of United Naga Council (UNC).

The poll panel will analyse the situation and decide on the election dates," government sources told IANS on Tuesday. The assembly election in Manipur is expected to be held next month.

Manipur is simmering due to an economic blockade called by the Nagas under the banner of UNC in Manipur. Though the blockade started on November 1 when the state government was planning to create new districts bifurcating existing Naga dominated districts, it intensified after the government ignored the agitation and went ahead to declare Jirbam as a full fledged district. The state government also created new districts of Kangpokpi, Tengoupal, Pharzol, Kakching, Noney and Kamjongin.

According to the UNC -- the apex representative of Nagas living in Manipur -- the creation of new districts out of Naga territory without their consent is a deliberate act to suppress the rights of the Nagas in the state.

In December last year, Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju said the central government will extend all assistance to restore normalcy in the state.

Apart from sending 150 companies of para military forces to Manipur when the blockade started, the central government also sent seven additional companies of para military forces, a step condemned by the NSCN-IM. Following the additional deployment of forces, the NSCN-IM questioned the seriousness of the central government to solve the Manipur issue.

The UNC also demanded President's Rule in Manipur following the deteoriating conditions and refusal by the Manipur CM to roll back the creation of the seven new districts. Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, along with his 49 Congress MLAs, on Tuesday reached Delhi to meet President Pranab Mukherjee over the prevailing tension in the state.

DimApur, JAnuAry 3 (mexn): The Nagaland State Cabinet once again met to discuss the ongoing storm around the Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and has decided that the “process of election to the ULBs as notified should be completed.”

This was informed in a press communiqué from Principal Secretary, Department of Municipal Affairs, Menukhol John, following a meeting of the State Cabinet held at the Dimapur residence of the Chief Minister of Nagaland this evening.

The Cabinet discussed in detail the issues raised by various bodies regarding the ULB election.

It concluded that reservation for women in the ULBs was “made a Constitutional obligation by the Parliament through Article 243 T and which came into force in 1993 and that reservation for

women did not come into force through any Act of the State. Moreover, Nagaland Municipal Act passed by the State is only to carry out the Constitutional mandate and give effect to Article 243 T.” The Cabinet also noted that it would be “in the best interest” of the people and the State to go ahead with the elections to the ULBs with 33% reservation for women as passed by the State Government in 2006. It also stressed to give mandate to Article 243 T “which, as it is, has already been in force since 1993, and since it has been found in the last more than two decades that Article 243 T has never infringed on the rights of the Nagas as enshrined in Article 371 A and that holding of elections to the ULBs with 33% reservation for women too, would not infringe on Article 371 A of the Constitution of India.”

One of the points of the Cabinet’s discussions focused on whether withholding elections to the ULBs on grounds that it would “infringe upon Article 371-A, as held earlier

ceived from any candidature on the first day of the nomination. Filing of nomination paper will continue till January 7, 2017 and scrutiny of nomination papers will take place on January 10. The last date of withdrawal of candidature is January 17 and the election will be held on February 1, 2017.

Similarly, in Meluri Town Council, no nomination papers were filed on the first day, a source informed.

However, in Phek Town Council, 13 nomination papers were filed on the first day of the filing of nomination papers. According to sources, the list includes 10 NPF candidates and 3 Independent candidates.

Do not categorize Dimapur: NCD The Naga Council, Dimapur has appealed all the civil societies and tribal bodies not to categorize Dimapur into jurisdiction/territory and belonging to any particular tribe or organizations. It is a city for all Nagas, it stated.

In a press note, the Naga Council, Dimapur said such statements appearing in the media will hurt the general Naga sentiment and has therefore appealed all section of civil societies and individual to be careful of the words that is meant to be published in the media.

Pochury Hoho does not object to ULB election In the midst of the stiff opposition coming from different organizations across the state, the Pochury Hoho, the only organization so far to voice in favour of the municipal and town election saying it had no objection to the civic election with the 33% women reservation.

“If any group of people or organization of Pochury is taking up an initiative step for social uplift and community development, the Pochury Hoho shall not stop/sabotage them from doing their job in the interest of the people of Pochury,” the office memorandum from the Hoho stated.

A fading art

Lipichem Kiphire | January 3

The ‘Sanphur and Phelungru speaking’ people of Sangtam community have been using slate slabs in place of thatch or straw for construction of houses since time immemorial.

Although there are no written history on how the construction of houses using slate roofing originated in Naga areas, with the introduction of Corrugate Galvanized Iron (CGI) sheet and other modern roofing system, the use of slate for roofing is fast-fading.

This means the younger generations may not get to experience the privilege of living under such indigenous built slate roofing or learn its art. Slate roofed houses are considered not only eco friendly but it is also known to maintain constant temperature throughout all seasons.

At least in Pungren, a small hamlet some 40km away from Kiphire town, majority of the nearly

Two men making bamboo strips outside a slate roofed house in a village in Kiphire district. With the introduction of CGI sheet and other modern roofing system, the use of slate for roofing is fast disappearing. (Morung Photo)

60-household still embrace the values and rich tradition they acquired from their ancestors. Even today, nearly 30% of the houses in the villages, along with the pigsty and granaries are slate roofed.

Recollecting the story passed on by their forefathers, elders of Pungren village shared to this Correspondent how slate house were typically constructed by the rich and the wealthy, because the expenditure

and the process involved was very difficult and involving a couple of pricey dedications.

Once the construction of the house with slate roofing is completed, the owner has to slaughter a fat male pig to dedicate the slate house, the reason which poor people were disinclined to venture into constructing slate houses.

Since slate is found only in rocky cliffs and steep places where there is hard-

by the State Government, would stand legal scrutiny given the fact that we had already provided 25% for women quota in the VDBs.” The Nagaland State Government Cabinet also found that the non holding of elections to the ULBs in the last 10 years has had “adverse effects on the Towns and Municipalities in matters of development and local self-Governance, and to further keep the elections in abeyance would do more harm than good to these ULBs.” It was discussed today whether holding of elections to the ULBs have “anything at all to do with the traditional practices of the Naga people considering the fact that townships and Municipalities are new concepts and not something to do with traditional or customary practices of the Naga people.”

Thus, for “better understanding,” the Government of Nagaland has decided to have “more dialogue and consultations” with tribe based apex organizations in the days to come.

ly any vegetation, villagers were even allowed to collect slates from community land for own use. But there is restriction for commercial purposes.

A person in the process of collecting slate also has to perform a ritual by killing a cock on the spot where slate is about to be collected. Only male members can perform the act and the womenfolk can but only help in carrying the harvested slate.

Further, if the ritual is not performed correctly, it was believed that the slate would break or proper shape and size would not be harvested, the elders recounted.

Harvesting slate is a tedious process, which requires the use of machete and sharp instruments to cut intopreferredsizeandshape.

Once the slate is harvested, it is carried to the village and with the help of a small iron, the slate is drilled on one side which is called a ‘nose’ through which one slate is tied on the other with a small rope and then follows the procedure of roofing.

According to the villagers, there is no record of slate being weathered or damaged. They guarantee that a slate house can survive at least a decade without major repair; with the only repair needed is to replace the ropes tied through the ‘nose.’

Slate roofed houses is also considered more safe from fire and storm. In summer, slate house is cooler and in winter, it emanates warmth. Slate houses are found only in some pockets of Kiphire district as most of the houses have been replaced by CGI sheet roofing.

2

WednesdAY 04•01•2017

NAGALAND

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Kohima Municipal Council Election Coordination Committee meeting held

One of the top visited places in Nagaland, the mystic charm of Dzükou valley is the natural beauty and wild flowers spread across lush green meadows. The valley has several seamlessly flowing streams of water that freezes in winter. The valley is famous for its wide range of flower in every season. The most famous one is the Dzükou lily. The Dzükou Valley is also famous as the “Valley of the Flowers of the North-East.” (Morung Photo)

kohiMA, JAnuAry 3 (DiPr): The Coordination Committee for the upcoming Kohima Municipal Council Election held its first meeting at DC’s Conference Hall, Kohima on January 2. The meeting was chaired by Deputy Commissioner Kohima, Rovilatuo Mor, IAS who is also the Convener of the Committee.

During the meeting, the DC informed that the meeting has been convened to discuss as to how to maintain a healthy and peaceful atmosphere, conducive for ensuring a free and fair election. He said that the State Election Commission has evolved Model Code of Conduct for the guidance of political parties and candidates, where the Government has notified “Election Programme” and made operational. The DC has therefore informed the members that the Committee has been constituted to ensure compliance of the Model Code of Conduct by all political parties and contesting candidates and for considering specific cases

DC Kohima also Convener of Coordination Committee, Rovilatuo Mor, IAS addresses the meeting at DC’s Conference Hall, Kohima on January 2. (DIPR Photo)

of violation of the Code. He also highlighted the Do’s and Don’ts for the guidance of the candidates and political parties to be observed from the announcement of an Election and until the completion of the process of the Election. Rovilatuo also urged the GBs to study the situation in their respective colonies/wards and inform the District Administration

and the Police in connection with any grievances.

Additional SP, Kohima, I. Hemang also briefed the members on the arrangement of police personnel been prepared by the Police Department for the Election. He said that the police personnel have been arranged accordingly to the situation of the areas as normal, sensitive and hyper

sensitive including the arrangement of 15 Groups of IR for security of the polling officials, GBs and the general public. GBs also shared their views and opinions during the meeting.

ADC Kohima and Returning Officer, Lithrongla Tongpi also called upon the GBs to act on the maintenance of law and order in their respective areas as

they are the eye and ear of the District Administration. She also informed that the voter slip will be issued before the polling day and asked the GBs, and ward/ colony leaders to assist during the issue. Assistant Election Officer, Mhathung Ngullie also highlighted some important points in regard with the Do’s and Don’ts based on the rules.

‘Digital finance for rural India: creating awareness and access’

Streets in Kohima wear a busy look with vehicles and few people walking around as the state capital witnessed the first rainfall of the year 2017 at around 3:00 PM on January 3. (Morung Photo)

‘Phoyisha Festival’ from Jan 4 to 7

MEluri, JAnuAry 3 (MExn): The Phoyisha Cultural Organisation (PCO) is organising the 23rd Session of the ‘Phoyisha Festival’ from January 4 to 7 and it will be hosted

by Yisisotha Village. Minister for School Education and SCERT Yitachu and Dr. Ritu Thurr, CMO Longleng will grace the festival as chief guest and guest of honour respectively.

PCO General Secretary Lazithu Trakha in a press release stated that this festival is held to promote and preserve cultures and Traditions, “which we tend to forget is search of education.” It also aims to instill the good moral values and ethics of culture to the younger generation in promoting peace, love, harmony and oneness of the people and creat-

ing cordial relations with neighbours.

The village troupes of the area will be competing each other in folk dance, folk songs, and different other traditional games.

The Officials of the PCO meanwhile invites all the area leaders, Villages VCCs, VDBs, Village Chiefs, Elders, GBs and Leaders of different capacities to attend the festival positively.

DiMAPur, JAnuAry 3 (MExn): The project titled ‘Digital finance for rural India: creating awareness and access’ through Common Service Center aims to enable the CSCs to become Digital Financial hubs, by hosting awareness sessions on government policies and digital finance options available for rural citizens as well as enabling various mechanisms of digital financial services such as such as IMPS, UPI, Bank PoS machines etc.

Nagaland State e-Governance society (NSeGS) under Department of Information technology and communication support all 11 districts to give training on their respective CSC operators (VLE) and citizens under the guidance and presence of the State Project Manager and the team. The CSC operators (VLE) were also tasked to train their respective villages which was hand guided

by their respective 22 District managers. The campaign was conducted from December 16 to 30, 2016.

The objective of Digital finance for rural India: creating awareness and access are: 1. Cashless - easy to carry 2. All transactions will be accountable 3. Government will increase the revenue through various taxes which will be used for the development of the citizens 4. Honesty in dealing in public mindset 5. Easy to access transaction 6. Time and energy saved in visiting bank 7. From e wallet, UPI, USSD, AEPS, cards, POS, etc. every transaction can be done 8. Linking with Aadhaar in the bank account will help to terminate fake/ ghost account.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Date of Birth: 28th Jan.1919 - Died on: 25th Dec. 2016

T

People partake in the celebration of Christmas with neighbours on December 25, 2016 at High Mountain School ground, Signal Angami village, Dimapur.

The programme was organised by the Neighbourhood Voluntary Initiative of Yimyim area. A good number of Muslims and Hindu neighbours partook in the Christmas feast with Christian neighbours.

Akhoya Village Students’ Union celebrates platinum jubilee

AkhoyA, JAnuAry 3 (MExn): Akhoya Village located in a beautiful hillock under Mokokchung district celebrated its Students’ Union platinum jubilee on December 29 with Anenla S Longchari IAS as chief guest.

In her speech, Anenla S Longchari reminded the students that education is not measured by just passing academic grade and getting degrees but by acquiring the knowledge and its application to meet the needs of the people. She encouraged the students to set proper aim in life from the very beginning and put serious effort in endeavouring to reach that target so as to enable them to use their own potentials for the benefit of the society.

A press release stated that Anenla S Longchari is the first NCS and IAS officer amongst the women from Akhoya village.

Chief guest Anenla S Longchari IAS with Jubilee Planning Committee office bearers in front of the Jubilee monument at Akhoya.

Rev. Dr. M. Rongsen Longkumer, a professor at Clark Theological College, Aolichen was the main speaker. Speaking on the Jubilee theme “For the Nations”, Rev. Prof. Rongsen

enlightened the students that as today’s world is becoming as one family, the nation states is also becoming as members of that global family. It is therefore important that every indi-

vidual must consciously act with those global consequences. He urged the students to become skilled and participate not only in consumption but also in production side so as to make

themselves productive citizens for the nations. He encouraged each and every student to become expert in one or other particular area of human needs to serve the nations meaningfully in one’s own life.

T. Aochuba IFS and Limaakum T Jamir, NPS also exhorted the students and AKM president, L. Jemti Longchar and LKM president, Imnakika Jamir brought and shared the words of jubilee greetings on the occasion.

The other highlights of the jubilee celebration were special numbers presented by the Jubilee choir, Naga Idol finalist Purkumzük, duets from Dimapur, Taochimen and Jungjenna and Katila and Sennala.

Earlier, the chief guest unveiled the Jubilee monument and released the souvenir. The celebration also marked by jubilee feast.

he bereaved family members of Late. RONGKIU YIMCHUNGER would like to express our profound gratitude to friends, neighbours, churches, organisations, individuals and well wishers for rendering your help through financials, physical presence and prayer support during the demise of our beloved father and husband on 25th Dec. 2016. We especially would like to mentioned the following organisations / churches.

1. Yimchungrü Baptist Church Dimapur.

2. Yimchungrü Baptist Church Women Deptt. Dimapur 3. Education Deptt.

Yimchungrü Baptist Church Dimapur.

4. Showubah Baptist Church.

5. Showbah Baptist Church Women Department.

6. Loyir Baptist Church.

7. Eastern Nagaland Women Organisation (ENWO) 8. Yimchungrü Baptist Church Diphupar ‘B’ 9. Yimchungrü Baptist Church Women Deptt. Diphupar ‘B’ 10. Yimchungrü Baptist Church Naga United Village.

11. Borlengri - I Women Association.

12. Yimchungrü Baptist Church Women Deptt. Kohima.

13. Eastern Nagaland Women Prayer Fellowship Kohima.

14. Yimchungrü Baptist Church Chumukedima 15. Yimchungrü Union Dimapur.

16. Baptist Church Y. Aünrü Village.

17. Pani Kheti Area.

18. Borlengri -I Village Committee.

19. Ebenezer Prayer Home. Karbi Anglong. Assam.

20. Bethesda Faith Home, Diphupar ‘B’.

21. Bethel Children's Home, Tuensang.

We regret our inability to thank each and every one in persons but may our Almighty God bless you all abundantly.

Loving Wife, Childre n, Grandchildre n, In-laws and Relatives

wednesday 04•01•2017

NORTH-EAST 3

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Senapati: 14 injured as public pickets govt offices

Morung Express News Dimapur | January 3

Fourteen people were injured when Police resorted to force while dispersing a mob picketing Manipur Government offices in Senapati district headquarters on Tuesday.

The incident occurred around 11:30 am when

about 300 people gathered had marched towards the barricades put up across the road leading to the Senapati District Administration Office before being stopped by security personnel.

Under the aegis of United Naga Council, picketing of Manipur Government offices in Naga districts began from midnight of Decem-

ber 31.

According to Senapati Deputy Commissioner, C. Arthur, security forces resorted to firing stun shells and smoke bombs to disperse the mob and in the ensuing melee about 10 civilians – mostly women – and 4 women constables were injured. They are being treated at the District Hospital in Senapati.

The DC stated that CrPC 144 had been in place when the incident occurred and added, “Situation is slightly tense but under control.”

Meanwhile, ANSAM President Seth Shatsang flayed the shooting by security personnel. “Nobody even touched the barricades,” he stated insisting that it was out of “apprehension” that the

“shoot order” was issued.

Shatsang also ridiculed the enforcement of curfew by the district administration. “It is a people’s protest,” he argued.

Mini-Secretariat. According to sources, armed gunmen exchanged fire with security personnel manning the Mini-Secretariat. The firing which started around 9:00 pm lasted around half an Firing at Ukhrul hour. Casualty if any could Mini-Secretariat not be ascertained at the Meanwhile, gunfire time of filing the report. The erupted in Ukhrul on Tues- persons responsible for the day night near the district firing also remain unknown.

Manipur CM in Delhi to share state's concerns with President New Delhi, JaNuary 3 (iaNS): Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh and the state Congress legislators reached Delhi on Tuesday to meet President Pranab Mukherjee over the ongoing tensions, caused due to the economic blockade by Naga groups. The blockade started soon after creation of seven new districts in the state.

"The Chief Minister and all the Congress MLAs have reached Delhi. They have sought an appointment to meet the President tomorrow (Wednesday)," said a senior officer at Delhi's Manipur Bhawan. The Manipur legislative assembly has 49 Congress members in the house of 60.

Informed sources told IANS: "The CM may talk against the imposition of President's Rule demanded by the United Naga Council and also about postponement of upcoming elections in the state."

The Imphal Valley is simmering after violent protests broke out following the creation of seven new districts -- Jiribam, Kangpokpi, Tengoupal, Pharzol, Kakching, Noney and Kamjongin.

A blockade was called by Naga groups to oppose the state's decision to create Sadar Hills and Jiribam as fullfledged districts.

The United Naga Council -- the representative group of all the Nagas in Manipur -- said creation of new districts would bifurcate the ancestral lands of the Nagas living in Manipur. Although Jiribam was made a district, the same could not be done with Sadar Hills due to strong opposition from the Nagas.

Naga Hoho for talks Groups want Meghalaya legislator In rural Assam, only 10% households have health coverage Information was colguwahati, JaNu- sam when it came to this vey in Assam was carried with Govt of Manipur arrested for raping minor ary 3 (tNN): When it important key indicator in out from November 6, lected from 24,542 houseKohima, JaNuary 3 (Pti): Naga Hoho, the apex body of tribal organisations in Nagaland, today alleged despite prolonged turmoil in the Naga inhabited areas of Manipur, the Government of Manipur and the Centre have been maintaining lukewarm attitude towards the genuine demands of the people.

"The plight of the Naga people living in the Hill areas of Manipur has been suppressed by the Government of Manipur. The sensitivity and seriousness to resolve the issue has not been addressed," Naga Hoho president P Chuba Ozukum and Assembly Secretary K Elu Ndang said in a release here.

Maintaining that the Naga Hoho believes in brotherhood and friendly relationship between the Nagas and Meiteis, they appealed to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs to intervene and summon a tripartite meet between the Government of Manipur and the United Naga Council (UNC).

The Hoho appealed that the two officials of UNC, including the president, who were still in police custody should be released unconditionally before any dialogue.

"A solution to any problem or crisis could be brought only through dialogue across the table," the Hoho said.

ShilloNg, JaNuary 3 (iaNS): Civil society groups in Meghalaya on Tuesday asked police to issue a red alert notice to arrest Independent legislator Julius Dorphang, who has been accused of raping minor girl.

The groups comprising of a powerful women's group Civil Society Women's Organisation and Thma U Rangli, a progressive political outfit of Meghalaya, also reiterated their demand for the resignation of Home Minister H.D.R. Lyngdoh after his son's guest house was used for sexual exploitation.

Dorphang, a former rebel leader of the outlawed Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council, is supporting the ruling Congress-led government, went into hiding after police registered a case against him.

Among other things, he was charged under the Immoral Trafficking Prevention Act (ITPA).

"A red corner notice should be

immediately issued to all states in the country including all exit and entry points of the state to arrest the legislator," the groups said in a statement.

They also asked Assembly Speaker Abu Taher Mondal to take action against Dorphang.

"The Chief Minister ought to take full responsibility and ensure action against the two legislators who are members of the Meghalaya United Alliance government," they added.

The Home Minister said he would not step down but assured that he would not interfere in the investigation.

"I leave it to the police to freely and fairly investigate the case, and those involved should face consequences according to the law," Lyngdoh told IANS. Police have arrested five persons, which include three women pimps. A waitress at the Home Minister's family-run guest house has also been arrested.

Arunachal to convert CM residence into state guest house itaNagar, JaNuary 3 (Pti): The Arunachal Pradesh government has decided to convert the official bungalow of chief minister into a state guest house soon.

The bungalow, situated at Niti Vihar area in the state capital, has earned moniker of 'haunted' building after former chief minister Kalikho Pul committed suicide on August 9 last year.

Barely two months later, a staff of the bungalow was also found hanging from the ceiling of an adjoining room there.

Two chief ministers, Dorjee Khandu and Jarbom Gamlin, who had lived there, met with untimely deaths.

"We are converting the bungalow into a state guest house.

A decision has been already taken," deputy chief minister Chowna Mein said today.

He also said that necessary renovations would be made soon, so that the guest house becomes functional in three to four months.

Mein said that as people consider it

a 'haunted' building, the government would also organise some rituals in order to dispel doubts and hesitations.

"I think we will have to carry out some rituals in order to remove the doubts and fears," Mein added.

The construction of the state-ofthe-art building which was started during 2007-08 was completed in the year 2009-10.

With a total plinth area of 2794.80 square meters, the estimated cost of the building was Rs 59.55 crore.

The project was executed by the state PWD and its design was prepared by the urban development department and chief architect of the town planning department.

A Guwahati-based Vaastu expert, who had inspected the bungalow during Nabam Tuki's tenure had found some "errors" in its lay-out and had suggested certain changes including shifting the water-source from the existing south-west location to the north-east.

The present building was constructed during Dorjee Khandu's regime after the previous building that

BJp summons its lone MLa in Manipur New Delhi, JaNuary 3 (iaNS): The BJP has summoned its lone MLA in Manipur along with other leaders of its state wing to apprise the party leadership about the tension in the northeastern state. According to Bharatiya Janata Party sources, MLA T. Biswajit Singh and other party leaders have been told to meet the top party leaders on Wednesday at the party headquarters.

Manipur is simmering due to an economic blockade called by the Nagas under the banner of UNC in Manipur. NH-37 and NH-2 have been badly affected due to the blockade. Though the blockade started on November 1 when the state government was planning to create new districts bifurcating existing Naga dominated districts, it intensified after the government ignored the agitation and went ahead to declare Jirbam as a full fledged district.

The state government also created new districts of Kangpokpi, Tengoupal, Pharzol, Kakching, Noney and Kamjongin. According to the UNC -- apex representative of Nagas living in Manipur -- the creation of new districts out of Naga territory without their consent is a deliberate act to suppress the rights of the Nagas in the state.

Manipur Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh, along with his 49 Congress MLAs reached Delhi on Tuesday to meet President Pranab Mukherjee over the prevailing tension in Manipur. The Union Home Ministry has also submitted a detailed report on Manipur to the Election Commission, mentioning the untoward incidents before the state assembly elections, due in February.

was constructed in the early 1980s.

Dorjee Khandu took possession of the bungalow on November 14, 2009, after performing special pujas by Tibetan spiritual guru the Dalai Lama.

But Khandu was killed in a helicopter crash on April 30, 2011 and its next occupant Jarbom Gamlin who remained chief minister for only six months before he resigned died young at the age of 53 on November 30, 2014.

The next occupant Nabam Tuki too had a turbulent term.

First "removed" by a special session of the assembly in December 2015, he could not continue in office even after the apex court restored his office on July 13, 2016 as dissidents within the party replaced him by Pema Khandu four days later.

Tuki, however, had already vacated the bungalow when President's Rule was imposed in the state on January 26, 2016, with Kalikho Pul occupying it after he was sworn in as the chief minister on February 19, 2016.

The present Chief Minister Pema Khandu stays at his private residence.

NAGALAND

comes to health schemes or insurance coverage in rural Assam, the state does not fare too well.

The latest National Family Health Survey-4 (2015-16) revealed only 10.4% of the households have at least one member covered under any such scheme.

The state government, which rolled out the ambitious Atal Amrit Abhiyan (AAA) last Sunday, now faces a daunting task to improve the coverage. The AAA scheme aims to cover below and above poverty line (BPL/APL) families whose annual income is below Rs 5 lakh. Assam's 10.4% was only an 8% increase from 2.3% when the last survey was carried out in 2005-6. Urban Assam fared poorly as well with a meagre 12.6% of households being covered by a health scheme.

Only Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Manipur ranked below As-

the survey with 5.7% and 3.6% respectively. Tripura, according to the survey, recorded 58.1% coverage, Meghalaya (34.6%) and Sikkim (30.3%).

Population sciences experts and medical practitioners have expressed concern over Assam's minimal coverage of health schemes. "Reasons as to why it is so low in Assam are difficult to comprehend.

At times, it may so happen that the head of the family is unavailable when a survey is being carried out and the person available may not be able to give details about the pertaining questions.

Again, the low percentage may be due to lack of awareness about insurance or health schemes. It could only be hypothetical," said a population science expert based out of Assam.

Fieldwork for the sur-

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(A Central University established by an Act of Parliament 1989) COMMUNITY COLLEGE D.C. Court Junction: Dimapur- 797112, Nagaland

Phone: 03862-234555

E-mail: noccnu2015@gmail.com

NAGALAND UNIVERSITY ADMISSION NOTIFICATION- 2017

Applications are invited from the eligible candidates for admission to “Certificate Course in Electric & Electronic Appliance Repair”.

Course Details: Important Dates: Duration: 6 months Date of issue of forms and information: 5th Dec.2016 onwards Intake Capacity: 50 Last date of receipt of filled in application forms: 5th Jan.2017 Eligibility: 10 Pass and above Date of Admission: 9th Jan.2017 Admission fee: `2000 Commencement of Classes: 10th Jan.2017 Reservation: As per NU norms.

Important note: All the admitted students will be provided a stipend of `1000 p.m. as scholarship subject to fulfillment of satisfactory attendance requirement and performance.

Contact/ Communication details: Course Co-Ordinator, Community College, Nagaland University, Administrative Block, Landmark Colony, Dimapur -797112 Ph. +91 9615826725/ +91 9612445244

2015 to March 31, 2016.

It was done by Nielsen (India) Private Limited.

NFHS-4 was carried under the aegis of the Union ministry of health and family welfare. The Mumbai-based International Institute of Population Sciences (IIPS) was designated as the nodal agency to conduct the survey.

holds, 28447 women and 3860 men. "There should be an universal health insurance scheme which should be put in place as early as possible. The state government should have accelerated its efforts. I haven't seen the NFHS survey but the 10.4% figure is quite low," said a medical practitioner.

ELITE HEALTHCARE TRAINING INSTITUTE Dimapur - 797112. Nagaland

Admission going on-

Courses offered ANM (Auxiliary Nurse & Midwife) DHAI / Nursing Assistant For details contact-

Eligibility 10th Passed 8th Passed

Duration 2 years 1 year

Centre –I Centre –II Dhobinalla Culvert, Near ICICI Bank 4th Mile, Near Agri Expo Junction Mob No: 9856125245/9615694009 Mob No: 8974507931/ 9862639134 (Hostel facility available only at Centre-II)

REQUIRED A PSU on behalf of T&M Services Consulting Pvt. Ltd. hereby invites resumes from the eligible candidates to work as a Site Engineer for its upcoming Road Projects in the state of Nagaland. Natives of Nagaland would be given preference.

Essential Qualifications (i) B.Tech/BE in Civil Engineering from Government Engineering College. (ii) Minimum one year field experience preferably in roads/bridges.

Desired Qualifications (i) Working knowledge of Computer Applications. (ii) Proficiency in English & Hindi Language.

Please send your Updated, CVs/Resumes On email- bndimapur@yahoo.com

4

WednesdAY 04•01•2017

business

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Note ban hits India’s manufacturing while China growth fastest in 4 yrs New Delhi, JaNuary 3 (PTi/aFP): At a time when demonetisation has hurt the manufacturing sector in India, China has reported the fastest growth in the sector, in four years.

Hit hard by the demonetisation move, manufacturing sector contracted in December as new work orders and output took a knock for the first time in 2016, a monthly survey by Nikkei Markit India Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) -- an indicator of manufacturing activity -- showed.

In yet another survey, China’s manufacturing activity expanded at its quickest pace in nearly four years in December, an independent research firm said today, in a sign of improving health for the world’s second-largest economy.

The private Caixin Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), an indicator of conditions at smaller manufacturers, beat expectations with a reading of 51.9 in December, up from 50.9 the previous month. A PMI figure above 50 marks an expansion of activity, and

At a time when demonetisation has hurt the manufacturing sector in India, China has reported the fastest growth in the sector, in four years. (HT Photo)

below 50 a contraction.

It was the survey’s highest score since January 2013, the Chinese financial magazine said in a joint statement with data compiler IHS Markit.

“The Chinese manufacturing economy continued to improve in December, with the majority of subindices looking optimistic,” Caixin analyst Zhong Zhengsheng said in the statement.

In India, on the contrary, according to the

Nikkei Markit India Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index fell to 49.6, down from 52.3 in November. The index came in below the crucial 50 threshold -- which separates contraction from expansion -- for the first time in 2016 in December. “Having held its ground in November following the unexpected withdrawal of Rs 500 and 1,000 bank notes from circulation, India’s manufacturing industry slid into contraction at the

end of 2016,” said Pollyanna De Lima, Economist at IHS Markit and author of the report. Lima added that “cash flow issues among firms also led to reductions in purchasing activity and employment”.

The India story In India, survey participants widely blamed the withdrawal of high-value rupee notes for the downturn as cash shortage in the economy reportedly resulted in fewer levels of new orders.

Businesses also highlighted challenging conditions in external markets, with a fall in new businesses from abroad ending a six-month long growth.

Though December saw a mild decline in manufacturing output, the average reading for October-December remained in the “growth terrain”, suggesting a positive contribution from the sector to overall GDP in the third quarter of 2016-17, the survey said.

“With the window for exchanging notes having closed at the end of December, January data will be key in showing whether the sector will see a quick rebound,” Lima added. The report said the higher prices paid for a range of raw materials made average cost burden increase for the 15th straight month in December, with the rate of inflation picking up since November.

The China story In China, December’s reading was boosted by stronger demand and an increase in new clients for Chinese manufacturers, which pumped output

growth to a 71-month high, the survey said.

The official purchasing managers’ index (PMI), which focuses on larger factories and mines, came in at 51.4 in December, down from 51.7 the previous month, which marked its fastest growth for two years. But stabilisation of the country’s economy faces further risks ahead with Donald Trump’s administration threatening to slap China with heavy tariffs.

Analyst Zhong noted that uncertainties about the sustainability of rising consumer prices and restocking also weigh on the outlook for factories.

China’s key manufacturing sector has been struggling in the face of sagging world demand for Chinese products and excess industrial capacity left over from the country’s infrastructure boom. But an upturn in the housing and construction markets thanks to cheap credit -following a series of monetary easing measures -has contributed to a sharp rebound in manufacturing activity.

Airtel offers free data for 12 RBI asks banks to ensure 40% notes are supplied to rural areas months for users switching to 4G New Delhi, JaNuary 3 (Fi- ance of fresh notes to rural branches that Rs 2000 note was the most availNaNcial exPress): With the of RRBs, DCCBs and commercial able note added to problems – it was

New Delhi, JaNuary 3 (FiNaNcial exPress): Countering Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel is all set to introduce a new offer that will offer customers free data for 12 months if they switch to Airtel’s 4G network!

According reports, the offer will open on January 4, 2017 and will close on February 28, 2017.

The offer will be available to Airtel customers across India. Airtel will offer free 3GB/month data for 1 year to new 4G customers.

The offer comes within days of Reliance Jio launching its ‘Happy New Year’ offer. The offer gives the consumers, free voice calling, video calling, data and messaging features. However, the daily limit for data usage will now come down to 1GB. The earlier Reliance Jio Welcome offer gave users a daily Fair Use Policy (FUP) limit of 4GB. So now, according to the new rules, after you use up your daily limit of 1GB on your connection, the speed will automatically come down to 128Kbps.

According to Mukesh Ambani, 80% of Jio users consume less than 1 GB of data daily. 1 GB per day is 30 times the average usage on other networks, he said. “In Jio Happy New Year Offer, we have fine-tuned our fair usage policy to ensure all users get fair share of network capacity,” he said last month.

The telecom war has been getting uglier by the day with Bharti Airtel, Vodafone and Idea fighting to retain their market share after Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance Jio’s aggressive entry.

FiRe StatiOnS

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

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note ban impact in rural areas, where mobile phone penetration, especially in terms of making digital payments, is very poor, the public had found it tough to carry on their dayto-day business. (Reuters) With the note ban impact in rural areas, where mobile phone penetration, especially in terms of making digital payments, is very poor, the public had found it tough to carry on their dayto-day business. (Reuters) With the note ban impact on larger towns and cities abating fast, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has turned its attention to rural India where the situation is still not back anywhere near normal. Looking to bring relief, the central bank today issued an order saying that sending currency notes to these areas must be speeded up and that the quantity of sums dispatched too must be raised.

RBI has put a figure to it too, to ensure there is no confusion. It said that banks must supply at least 40 per cent of currency to rural areas. In a statement, RBI said, “Banks should advise their currency chests to step up issu-

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banks, white Label ATMs in rural areas & post offices in rural areas on priority basis which are considered main rural channels of distribution.”

The RBI statement added, “As the rural requirements could vary from district to district depending on variations in the rural and urban mix of each district in terms of relative shares in CASA deposits and number of deposit accounts, to facilitate a need based approach in this regard a certain percentage of allocation has been assigned to each district depending on the rural and urban mix. The indicated proportion may be maintained on weekly average basis at each chest level as it may be difficult to stick to the proportion on daily basis.”

With the note ban impact in rural areas, where mobile phone penetration, especially in terms of making digital payments, is very poor, the public had found it tough to carry on their day-to-day business as ATMs and banks did not have enough currency notes to distribute – even wages paid to workers were affected as there was no cash available. Also, the fact

std code: 0370 2222952 2222916 2243339 2224202 08974997923

difficult to make small purchases and get change in return from shops.

To make sure that the high denomination problems do not arise, RBI has issued fresh instructions about the denominational mix too.

It stated, “Chests should issue bank notes in denominations of Rs 500 and below. In particular ATMs may be issued Rs 500s and Rs 100s. Offsite ATMs should be allocated higher proportion of cash as against on site ATMs as they are more important in last mile currency connectivity.”

In what will bring even more relief to the rural public, RBI announced, “Existing stock of other denominations notes below Rs 100 should be issued liberally. Banks should indent for coins, obtain supply from Issue Departments of Reserve Bank of India and ensure supply to public on priority basis.”

However, with queues almost disappearing in larger towns and the RBI in fact increasing the daily withdrawal limit to Rs 4,500, the worst of the demonetisation impact on the public is now almost over.

MOKOKCHUnG

MuMbai, JaNuary 3 (reuTers): The Indian government will present on February 1 its budget for the 2017/18 financial year starting on April 1, a senior government official said on Tuesday. The first part of the budget session of parliament will start on January 31 when the government is expected to present the Economic Survey, which sets the scene for Finance Minister Arun Jaitley’s fourth annual budget, the official who did not wish to be named, said.

The cabinet decided last September to merge the railway budget with the annual budget, ending a nearly century-long practice and easing the way for the government to cut populist subsidies and push through structural reforms. It had also decided to scrap a distinction between plan and non-plan expenditures in the annual budget besides advancing the date of the general budget, usually the last working day in February, to ensure proposals take effect from April 1.

No, PM is not offering free mobile recharges worth Rs. 500 via Whatsapp New Delhi, JaNuary 3 (NDTV GaDGeT): WhatsApp has been a breeding ground for phishing activities and spreading malicious links, and the latest trick tries to cash in on PM Narendra Modi’s recent monetary reforms in the country. A fake link claiming that PM Modi wants to give free recharge worth Rs. 500 to everyone in the country has been circulating on WhatsApp. We would like to shout out that the link is fake, and could potentially be a phishing technique.

Divulging any personal details on the site or even clicking on the link could make you vulnerable to an attack.

The fake link with the URL - http://balance.modi-gov. in/ - has been in circulation on WhatsApp for the past few weeks, claiming to give free recharge of Rs. 500. By clicking on the link, a user is taken to a webpage with all the major telecom companies’ logod. The words ‘Desh Badal Raha Hai’ take centre space, and the website asks you to fill in information like mobile number, operator, and state. Once you fill in all the details and press the Recharge Now button, it takes you to a new page asking you to share the link with 15 friends.

We urge you to not fill any of this information, as the website is a fake one, made probably by hackers that could use this information unethically. Also, the Terms and Conditions written at the bottom of the Home Page reads, “We are not connected to any telecom company” further testifying to its bogus nature. A similar fake WhatsApp message went viral when WhatsApp first introduced video calling to all its users. A link indicating that users need an invite to activate video calling went viral on WhatsApp, with many users falling prey to it. The website had fake screenshots of video calling as well to dupe WhatsApp users.

We reiterate that these links could be malicious and we strongly recommend you not to click it at all, let alone share it with friends. Please understand that such easy rewards are often used as fake baits to get users sensitive data and compromise on their privacy. Never click any such link, or download any such software.

FeLiCitatiOn

The Longtsunger Village Council (LVC), Longtsunger Village Citizen Union (LVCU) and Longtsunger Village Student's Union (LVSU) extend our heartiest congratulations to Shri. K. Murelim Yimchunger on his promotion as Deputy Director, Directorate of Art & Culture, Nagaland Kohima.

The undersigned organisation wish him good health and luck in his future endeavours.

H. tokiu, Chairman L. V. C s. shojiba, President L. V. C. U rhakhokiu K Yimchunger, President L.V.s.U

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BUY (rs) 66.34 81.47 8.28 47.84 45.84 49.14 56.42 69.97 1.79 0.0534 17.48 9.21

seLL (rs) 69.50 85.62 9.24 50.36 48.20 51.66 59.75 73.53 2.00 0.0597 19.51 10.28

leisure

Contact numbers

8575045501 8575045510 8575045502 8575045520 8575045508 8575045518 8575045506 8575045516 8575045507 8575045517 8575045505 8575045515 8575045549 8575045538 8575045509 8575045519 8575045500 (Emergency No. – 100)

India to present 2017/18 budget on February 1

SUDOKU

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

Game Number # 3813

Answer Number # 3812

ACROSS 1. Presses down 6. Matured 10. Torture device 14. A loud sleeping sound 15. Achy 16. Reflected sound 17. Courtyards 18. A short musical composition 19. Region 20. Instigator 22. Trade 23. Give the cold shoulder 24. Excrements 26. Anagram of “Dome” 30. Travel through the air 31. Mistake 32. Emanation 33. Bit of gossip 35. Put out 39. Lean back 41. An ancient jar 43. Sedate 44. Calamitous 46. Ailments 47. A gesture of assent 49. Louse-to-be 50. Sit for a photo 51. A breed of hound 54. Break 56. Unit of land 57. Deaths 63. French for “Black” 64. Module 65. Like the Vikings 66. If not 67. An exchange involving money 68. Top of a wave 69. Clairvoyant 70. L L L L 71. Flexible tubes DOWN 1.Russian emperor 2. Against

3. Eve’s opposite 4. Snob 5. Aquatic mammals 6. Attacked 7. Farewell 8. Sea eagle 9. A unit of temperature 10. The audience of a newspaper 11. Units of land 12. Swindle 13. Australian “bear” 21. Finally (French) 25. Handle 26. Hearing organs 27. A song for 2 28. Killer whale 29. Slacker 34. Soaks or pickles 36. Alone 37. Website addresses 38. Convenience 40. False god 42. Iron or steel 45. Impart gradually 48. Render harmless 51. Nemeses 52. French school 53. Come up 55. Small amount 58. A Freudian stage 59. Lawn mower brand 60. Angers 61. Being 62. Collections Answer to Crossword 3817

Wednesday 04•01•2017

NAGALAND

Nagaland BJP wish for peace, development Naga Hoho leaves matter concerning ulbs elections to tribe hohos Dimapur, January 3 (mExn): The Naga Hoho has reaffirmed the 3rd Assembly Resolutions for amendment of the Nagaland Municipal Act. “Therefore, in the event of any adverse effect in future with regards to infringements of Article 371 (A) of the Constitution of India through i n t ro d u ction of 33% women reservation (in the Urban Local Bodies elections), the Naga Hoho shall not be held responsible or shall not be a party to it,” the Hoho stated today in a statement.

The Executive Council of the Naga Hoho issued the statement to “clarify its position and to clear the minds of the general public” in regards to municipal elections vis-à-vis the 33% women reservation and Article 371(A). The Executive Council had an emergency meeting on January 2, 2017 at Hotel Saramati, Dimapur.

Dimapur, January a press release from Jaangsil- BJP president, Visasolie 3 (mExn): The Nagaland lung Gonmei, General Sec- Lhoungu in his New Year State BJP has greeted every retary (Media) & Spokes- greetings has conveyed citizen a Happy New Year person, BJP Nagaland. The that “we should all strive to 2017. “Every New Year brings State BJP wished that the mend our differences and with it new opportunities, year ahead brings blessings live and work unitedly to new avenues for develop- of health, understanding, make our society a better ment and new challenges. It cooperation, peace and de- place to live which is also The statement from C. Daipao, Secre- is the choice that we have to velopment. the purpose of God.” Let tary, Information & Publicity, Naga Hoho make – whether to make the Meanwhile, the release 2017 be a year of betterment stated that following the unilateral deci- best of it or blunders,” stated mentioned that the State for all, he wished. sion taken by the Eastern Nagaland Peoples’ Organisation (ENPO) on December 29, 2016, superseding the joint ultimatum submitted to the Government of Na g a l a n d on December 10, 2016 demanding not to conduct municipal elections, “the Naga Hoho is compelled to take its own position in the larger interest of the people.”

Observing that all the tribe hohos have taken their own decisions/ positions in regards to holding of municipal elections, the Executive Council resolved to leave the matter to the concerned tribe hohos and Office bearers of Phezoucha Krotho under L. Khel Kohima Village, New Secretariat the people in their respective jurisdiction area destroyed assorted brands of liquor seized from shops in and around the colony to decide what is best for the people, ac- on December 31, 2016. Representatives from frontal organisation of Lhisemia Khel cording to the statement. along with GBs and church leaders were also present.

Hoho upholds 3rd Assembly resolutions for amendment of Nagaland Municipal Act

KDCC Municipal Election Committee meet Kohima, January 3 (mExn): The Municipal Election Committee of Kohima District Congress Committee (KDCC) will hold an emergency meeting on January 4 at KDCC office in Kohima at 12:00 noon. All committee members have been requested to attend the said meeting without fail.

Free coaching for class 10 students Dimapur, January 3 (mExn): The ACME Club Kuhuboto has informed all the parents and class 10 students in Kuhuboto that the free class 10 coaching class, organised and sponsored by the club for those who are going to write the forthcoming HSLC examinations will commence from January 9, 2017, 10:00 am at Government High School Kuhuboto. The club has informed all the concerned parents, students and frontal heads of Kuhuboto and public leaders of Kuhuboto area to attend its inaugural programme.

Head Gb of Samaguri Garo Village passes away Dimapur, January 3 (mExn): The Head Gaon Bura (GB) of Samaguri Garo Village, Abril Sangma passed away around 5:30 pm on January 2 after prolonged illness.

He is survived by four sons, six daughters, several grandchildren and great grandchildren.

The funeral service conducted at Samaguri on January 3 was blessed by Rev. James Thoppil, Bishop of Nagaland and ministered by Rev. Fr. Chacko.

Born on April 1, 1929, Abril was the founding pioneer of Samaguri Village established

in 1950, informed a press release from Biplab K. Sangma, President, NGTC. He was also the founding President of Nagaland Garo Tribal Council (NGTC) formed in 1991. He served as the Head GB of Samaguri Village from 2007 till his demise. As the founding President of NGTC, he spearheaded several movements for the uplift and development of the Garos of Nagaland, the release acknowledged.

Expressing grief and condolence over the demise, the Council stated it is a great

physical as well as moral loss for the entire Garo community, especially for the Garos of Nagaland as Abril was actively involved in the uplift and betterment of the Garo society. “His untimely demise is a great blow to the political as well as administrative betterment of not only Samaguri Garo Village but also for the NGTC and the Garos of Nagaland as a whole,” it maintained.

The NGTC further offered condolences to his family members, especially his chil-

dren and grandchildren and prayed that his soul finds everlasting bliss in heaven and that God gives strength and solace to his family and dear ones to come out of the grief and loss.

The Council said it will always cherish the good works and immense contribution made by late Abril and also promised that his dream and aspirations will be carried on by the Garo body. NGTC also assured that Abril's children and grandchildren will always get its support in days to come.

Elderly folks take part in the centenary feast during the 100 years’ celebration of Aliba Baptist Church held from December 27 to 29, 2016.

Aliba village is located in Ongpangkong range of Mokokchung district. (Photo Courtesy: Toshi Kichu)

Pork rate in Zunheboto Town ZunhEboto, January 3 (mExn): Administrator, Zunheboto Town Council and ADC, Nungsangmenla has informed that the rate of pork in the market under Zunheboto Town has been fixed as under: Local – Rs. 200/-, Non-local – Rs. 190/-. All the butchers have been directed to comply with the order, while cautioning that going against it will result in cancellation of trade license.

Nagaland Governor recalls Pusa as a great social worker More organisations mourn KV Pusa’s death Dimapur, January 3 (mExn): Condolences continued to pour in for KV Pusa, former minister and ex-president of Nagaland Pradesh Congress Committee (NPCC), who passed away in Kohima on January 2.

Governor: Governor of Nagaland, PB Acharya described KV Pusa as a great social worker. “It is really very tough for me to believe that now he is not with us.

This is really sad and a great loss indeed to the people and to all the Nagas. He was a person who had worked for the welfare of all the Naga tribes. He was very pleasant with an accommodating personality and a secular person respecting all religion,” stated the Governor in a condolence message. Acharya further acknowledged that throughout his political career, Pusa contributed immensely towards the development of the State and in particular the Southern Angami region. “His vast contribution in various fields will be always treasured and remembered by the people of the State.” The Governor offered deepest sympathy and prayer to the bereaved family and all the near and dear ones during this time of sorrow.

ENLU: The Eastern Nagaland Legislators Union (ENLU) Convenor and Nagaland Health and Family Welfare Minister P. Longon, on behalf of ENLU, has expressed shock and grief over the sudden demise of KV Pusa. In a condolence message, ENLU said the demise of Pusa is a great loss to the Naga society and a big vacuum has been created. “The untimely demise of Pusa is a great loss to the Nagas and the void created by his death would be difficult to fill,” it added. The ENLU described Late Pusa as a true Naga patriot and a seasoned politician who worked for the aspiration of the Naga people during his lifetime. It further conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family members and prayed that the departed soul rest in peace.

Congress, Chumukedima: The Congress unit of Chumukedima also expressed shock and sadness at the sudden demise of former Minister and veteran Congress leader KV Pusa. “He was an active and a true political leader and worked under different capacities during the Congress regime in Nagaland. He was a man of vision who tirelessly worked towards the cause of the Naga people,” stated a condolence message from the President and Secretary of Congress, Chumukedima unit. The unit further acknowledged that his immense good works will be remembered and treasured and the vacuum created by his demise will be difficult to be filled. Meanwhile, it conveyed deepest condolences and prayed that the Almighty God would grant solace and strength to the bereaved family members at this hour of grief and pain and also prayed for the departed soul to rest in eternal peace.

BJP: The Nagaland State BJP recalled that Pusa was a tall Naga leader having served the society in different capacities since his youth as part of Southern Angami Sports Association, Board Chairman of Kohima English School (now Mezhur Higher Secondary Schoo), and in his long political career as President of the NPCC as well as Minister under various ministries with varied portfolios. The Nagaland State BJP President, Visasolie Lhoungu in his condolence message mourned the loss of a “great leader” of the state and particularly of the southern Angami region. The party further prayed for the departed soul and for his family during their time of grief.

Public SPace Nagaland cops stationed at CPRTI in New Delhi accused of cooking cats and langur FGN adheres to the policy of peace and nonviolence

nEw DElhi, January 3 (mail toDay): Two Nagaland Armed Police (NAP) constables, stationed at the Central Police Radio Training Institute (CPRTI) in the national Capital, face disciplinary and legal action for allegedly cooking cats, dogs and at least once a langur, at their barrack kitchen. On December 29, acting on a complaint from another CPRTI officer, when the Delhi State Animal Welfare Board raided their rooms, they seized a dead cat kept in a polythene bag from the premises.

The two constables, V Vihuto Awomi and Vi Toho, reportedly admitted before the board officials that they intended to cook it for food, as it was normal in their culture to consume feline meat. The case once again brings out deep cultural divide in a uniform force and a metropolitan city.

"It's a criminal offence under IPC Sections 428 and 429 of the 'Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act,' and the FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) Rules," Abhinav Srihan, member, animal welfare board, told Mail Today.

"Under the slaughterhouse rules, an animal can be butchered only in a designated slaughterhouse after being inspected and certified by a veterinary officer as healthy. This ensures that people do not consume contaminated meat and stay safe from infections."

However, Madhu Chandra, founding member of the North East Support Centre and Helpline in Delhi, pointed out that a uniform law is required

for prosecution in such case because a lot of grey areas persist and there is always a possibility of harassment of northeasterners in the city.

FOOD DIRECTIVES "It is amusing and insulting at the same time that several political leaders have publicly made downright racist remarks by asking to 'bring in people from northeast to deal with stray dog and monkey popula-

it and iron rods, the presence of which the NAP constables could not explain. The raiding party suspects the wood was used as a chopping block while the rods were employed to kill "the prey".

When Mail Today contacted CPRTI, its officials said they have reported the matter to Delhi Police, which had deputed the two constables from their "pool of reserve officers" and the duo were immediately

The two Nagaland Armed Police (NAP) constables face disciplinary and legal action tions'. On the other hand, we never fail to despise and scorn Nagaland residents when an incident like CPRTI happens," Chandra said.

"I remember years back, the Delhi Police had brought out a book on 'Food Directives for Northeast Residents in Delhi,' which advised against even fermented fish and soybeans; I do not endorse what the Naga boys did. Only that the Delhi government must have a law to book them, or else it will be harassment," he said.

Meanwhile, the board has lodged a complaint at the Mandir Marg police station citing the act as a violation of provisions of the 'Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960,' among others. It has also reported the matter to higher CPRTI authorities. The raiding party also seized a block of wood with dried blood on

recalled.

Venu Kumar, joint director general of CPRTI, which comes under Union home ministry, said, "It is really unfortunate this happened. We have also put up a circular in our canteen, hostel and main gate that such behaviour-weather committed by officers, trainees or sentries from the Nagaland Armed Police (NAP) are illegal as we sit on the Ridge reserve forest. Suitable action will be taken against it." Kumar has also issued an official circular to this effect.

Animal activist Sonya Ghosh, who was part of the raid, told Mail Today: "The complainant, who is an officer in the institute itself, told us that the two were in the habit of killing small birds and animals daily. They did this with the help of slingshots inside the forest campus. Allegedly,

even a langur was killed and its tail hung in the room as a memento. We could not find it but there was a locked cupboard and trunk."

The two constables reportedly told the board officials that they found the cat "killed by a dog on the roadside, and wanting the meat not to go waste, brought it to our rooms to cook.

We are used to eating flesh of cats, dogs and other animals."

DCP (New Delhi), BK Singh, said, "A complaint was received and we found a cat carcass. We have sent it for postmortem to find dog bite marks on it, so that we can ascertain if it was an act of killing or disposing."

A CPRTI official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, told Mail Today that several staff members often complained about foul smells emanating from the kitchen of the accused duo. The official also disclosed that the Naga constables were adapt at catching birds from the ridge area and routinely cooked them privately. The CPRTI staff that Mail Today spoke to expressed happiness that the two constables have been shunted out of the premises.

Food habits of northeastern residents in Delhi have often inflamed passions. The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) that hosts an annual 'International Food Festival' often courted controversy for allowing beef at the event. There have been skirmishes regarding missing dogs in Munirka and Mukherjee Nagar where local dog-lovers have blamed the northeast student population.

Speech of Gen. (retd.) Viyalie Metha, Kedahge, Federal Government of Nagaland, on 54th Naga Army Day, 3rd January 2017 at TPC, Kohima The Commander-in-Chief, all rank and file of the Naga Army, fellow national workers, ladies and gentlemen n this auspicious day of the 54th Naga Army Raising Day, I extend my heartiest greetings to all the rank and file of the Naga Army for a prosperous New Year, 2017 and call upon each and everyone to give thanks to Almighty God for all blessings He had bestowed us all.

Looking back over 62 years past (1954-2016) of conflict with India, in the beginning Naga Youth voluntarily stood up to defend our country from the invading Indian Armed Forces. Our Youth firstly organized themselves as VOLUNTEERS. And after sometime when the situation became more demanding as enemy forces intensified; Volunteer was renamed and called SAFE GUARD and the Indian Army had the first heavy encounter on June 11, 1956 in Kohima. Later on the Naga Home Guard was made full-fledge standing Army as Naga Army on 3rd January, 1964.

Thus the Naga Army fought and defended our country against the invading Indian Army till an International Ceasefire Agreement was signed between the Federal Government of Nagaland and Government of India in 1964, ending nearly ten

O

years of India’s undeclared war against Nagaland.

During the war, the Indian Armed Forces made the Naga civilians their first target. Our civilians were tortured, put in jail, forced to carry their ration and war materials, mass arrest of villagers, mass flogging and villages hoarded into concentration camps were a common practice. Our houses, granaries and churches burnt; our crops destroyed. Our women molested, raped, maimed and even killed; old men, old women and children were beaten with gun butts and kicked; children mishandled and thrown to death.

More than 100,000 Naga civilian lost their lives due to starvation, shooting, shelling, and bombardment of civilian populated areas. India expected and hoped to drive out Naga civilian as refugees elsewhere by committing heinous war crime against Nagaland. But our people were resilient and reclaimed our respective villages.

In the Indo-Naga war, the Naga Army maintained clean and unblemished record in accordance with the UN Resolution of Geneva Convention 1949. That is: 1. The Naga Army never kill or harass any Indian civilian.

2. Never tortured or mistreated enemy prisoners of war.

3. Honour our words and

maintained restraint and not violated the Ceasefire Agreement till today.

The Federal Government of Nagaland adheres to the policy of peace and nonviolence. We do not want any more bloodshed in our land. However lack of reprisal over all provocative activities of the enemy should not be taken as a weakness but is an opportunity to prepare ourselves for the eventualities that will sooner or later be answerable by India.

As true soldier of the Nation, The Naga Army had not only braved the mighty enemy forces but also achieved many successful Alee Commands treading bare-footed to Pakistan and China. Our Nation is proud today because of your sacrifices.

In the course of this journey many precious lives were lost and today we remember their sufferings and sacrifices for our Nation and for us. Above all, the Naga Army had done what was expected of you. So once again I say ‘well done’ Naga Army.

Nagaland withstood the odds and stands as a Nation today because of your bravery, dedication and sacrifice. Let the same integrity, intrepidity and perseverance prevail in you to uphold and defend our Nation.

So God may continue to bless and keep Nagaland.

KUKNALIM

The Morung Express “Public Space” is to provide space for diverse opinions to be expressed and heard. The opinions in the “Public Space” do not reflect the views and position of the newspaper nor the editor.

6

IN FOCUS The Power of Truth

The Morung Express volume XII Issue 2

By Dr. Asangba Tsüdir

Speak Truth to Power

‘S

peak truth to power’ is a phrase coined by the Quakers during the mid 1950s with a call for the United States to stand firm against fascism and other forms of totalitarianism. It has come to mean “speaking out to those in authority” and is now used in politics and in human rights activism. In our society today, this phrase seems to be urgently conveying us the central message underlying it and the need to put it into practice.

Conscious minds have created waves of ripples in speaking truth to power but it has landed in a challenging terrain in the form of opposition from the government in ‘self defense’ like the recent issue on rice scam which the Chief Minister T. R. Zeliang belatedly claimed that the whole case has been “misinterpreted and misprojected in the media wherein it was depicted that corrupt activities are taking place with the assumed blessings of the government.” In urgency and in right earnest, this paper has raised the issue of the absence of democracy in the functioning of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly in a situation of ‘opposition-less.’ If this trend is to continue then it rightly pointed out that the year 2017 may see the rise of autocratic tendencies. This is neither blunt nor a virtual imagery because we have witnessed legislation trampling upon our Constitutional Rights. This is not just a democratic tragedy but an outright denial of a right to a qualified life.

The challenge will be to speak truth to power in creating a process of restoring democracy and life. To speak ‘truth’ to ‘power’ is not only challenging but may rather seem daunting especially when truth is more commonly scorned today.

Though within comfortable confines, praised is heaped on anyone who dares or dared to stick their heads above the walls against undemocratic authority where matters that concerns life are decided against the ‘wills’ of the people. Today, in the struggle for truth against ‘powers that be’ support has been largely found wanting and thereby ‘truth’ finds itself sacrificed and defeated. Values and principles seems to have lost all its meanings where one’s comfort and well being has taken precedence over the collective good of the community and society.

Paradoxically, truth seems to be both ‘unwanted’ and ‘wanted’ while emerging voices of truth is being demoralized and oppressed. And rightly so, because we have failed to come together with a sense of collective responsibility. We talk about a better society but we cannot speak the truth freely and openly which only shows that we are not free. Not free because we are in chains of corruption and somehow enslaved in silence while many finds it difficult to disturb one’s comfort zone. As such, we have more of armchair warriors. A lot of soul searching is desired to ponder upon our moral responsibilities as a human being.

Our present society is in dire need of transformation for which one needs to first free oneself and go into sacrificial mode of producing ‘sweat’ and ‘tears’ in creating a transforming effect. This begins with truth and the ‘will’ to speak the truth. Often, popular yet undemocratic voices may shake one’s convictions which will act as a hindrance to speaking the truth. This requires courage to stand true to one’s faith, beliefs and convictions. It also requires a well-informed intellect especially when those in positions of authority wrongfully deny our rights.

Nonetheless, our society needs to learn to appreciate and value for what truth is and begin by learning to speak the language of truth, first from within each heart and mind before we really speak truth to power. This will be one among the challenges for this year and the onus will be on us to translate the phrase ‘speak truth to power’ either as a source of ‘power in itself’ or make it into a threat.

(Dr. Asangba Tzüdir is Editor of heritage publishing house. He writes a weekly guest editorial for the Morung Express. Views and comments can be mailed to asangtz@gmail.com)

lEfT wiNg |

Andrea Germanos CommonDreams

'The Greatest Single Step' to Help Elephants Was Just Taken In 'game-changing' development, China announces it will ban all domestic ivory trade by end of 2017

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WEDNESDay 04•01•2017

n a development widely described as game changing for the ecosystem engineers, China has announced it will enact a total ban on its domestic ivory trade by the end of 2017.

The news on Friday, as Agence France-Press reports, "follows Beijing's announcement in March to widen a ban on imports of all ivory and ivory products acquired before 1975, after pressure to restrict a trade that sees thousands of elephants slaughtered every year."

Reuters adds: "The State Council said in a notice a complete ban would be enforced by Dec. 31, 2017. A first batch of factories and shops will need to close and hand in their licenses by March 31, 2017."

It is indeed a significant step, as "China is currently the biggest buyer and seller of ivory in the world," as BBC News notes, and the thirst for ivory is driving the slaughter of elephants.

The situation is "alarming," according the Great Elephant Census, conducted this year. It found the population of the Savanna elephants of Africa "dramatically declining"—30 percent over last 7 years mainly due to poaching.

Thus declared Peter Knights, CEO of the conservation group WildAid: "China's exit from the ivory trade is the greatest single step that could be taken to reduce poaching for elephants."

"The large-scale trade of ivory now faces its twilight years," said World Wildlife Fund (WWF) president and CEO Carter Roberts, "and the future is brighter for wild elephants."

To ensure such a future, Elly Pepper, deputy director of wildlife trade for the Natural Resources Defense Council, writes that [n]ow, it's crucial other countries with domestic ivory markets, including the UK, follow China's lead and shut them down. Even the U.S., which has largely closed its ivory market by banning the ivory trade at the federal level and in many states (e.g., HI, NY, OR, WA, NJ), can do more in the way of enforcement, while also helping other countries follow suit. As recognized in resolutions agreed to by many countries and leading conservation experts at the IUCN World Conservation Congress and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), domestic ivory bans are critical to stopping the poaching of elephants.

And while China is one piece of the puzzle, all countries must work together to end the global ivory trade if we hope to bring elephants back from the brink.

Echoing Pepper, Grace Ge Gabriel, Asia regional director for the International Fund for Animals Welfare, said, "To stop the slaughter of elephants, we have to break every link on the trade chain—from poaching to trafficking to demand."

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

C O M M E N T A R Y

John F Schumaker New Internationalist

The demoralized mind

Western consumer culture is creating a psycho-spiritual crisis that leaves us disoriented and bereft of purpose. How can we treat our sick culture and make ourselves well?

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ur descent into the Age of Depression seems unstoppable. Three decades ago, the average age for the first onset of depression was 30. Today it is 14. Researchers such as Stephen Izard at Duke University point out that the rate of depression in Western industrialized societies is doubling with each successive generational cohort. At this pace, over 50 per cent of our younger generation, aged 18-29, will succumb to it by middle age.

Extrapolating one generation further, we arrive at the dire conclusion that virtually everyone will fall prey to depression.

By contrast to many traditional cultures that lack depression entirely, or even a word for it, Western consumer culture is certainly depression-prone.

But depression is so much a part of our vocabulary that the word itself has come to describe mental states that should be understood differently. In fact, when people with a diagnosis of depression are examined more closely, the majority do not actually fit that diagnosis. In the largest study of its kind, Ramin Mojtabai of Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health sampled over 5,600 cases and found that only 38 per cent of them met the criteria for depression.

Contributing to the confusion is the equally insidious epidemic of demoralization that also afflicts modern culture.

Since it shares some symptoms with depression, demoralization tends to be mislabelled and treated as if it were depression. A major reason for the poor 28-per-cent success rate of anti-depressant drugs is that a high percentage of ‘depression’ cases are actually demoralization, a condition unresponsive to drugs.

Existential disorder In the past, our understanding of demoralization was limited to specific extreme situations, such as debilitating physical injury, terminal illness, prisoner-of-war camps, or anti-morale military tactics. But there is also a cultural variety that can express itself more subtly and develop behind the scenes of normal everyday life under pathological cultural conditions such as we have today. This culturally generated demoralization is nearly impossible to avoid for the modern ‘consumer’.

Rather than a depressive disorder, demoralization is a type of existential disorder associated with the breakdown of a person’s ‘cognitive map’. It is an overarching psycho-spiritual crisis in which victims feel generally disoriented and unable to locate meaning, purpose or sources of need fulfilment. The world loses its credibility, and former beliefs and convictions dissolve into doubt, uncertainty and loss of direction. Frustration, anger and bitterness are usual accompaniments, as well as an underlying sense of being part of a lost cause or losing battle. The label ‘existential depression’ is not appropriate since, unlike most forms of depression, demoralization is a realistic response to the circumstances impinging on the person’s life.

As it is absorbed, consumer culture imposes numerous influences that weaken personality structures, undermine coping and lay the groundwork for eventual demoralization. Its driving features – individualism, materialism, hyper-competition, greed, over-complication, overwork, hurriedness and debt – all correlate negatively with psychological health and/or social wellbeing. The level of intimacy, trust and true friendship in people’s lives has plummeted.

Sources of wisdom, social and community support, spiritual comfort, intellectual growth and life education have dried up. Passivity and choice have dis-

placed creativity and mastery. Resilience traits such as patience, restraint and fortitude have given way to short attention spans, over-indulgence and a masturbatory approach to life.

Research shows that, in contrast to earlier times, most people today are unable to identify any sort of philosophy of life or set of guiding principles. Without an existential compass, the commercialized mind gravitates toward a ‘philosophy of futility’, as Noam Chomsky calls it, in which people feel naked of power and significance beyond their conditioned role as pliant consumers. Lacking substance and depth, and adrift from others and themselves, the thin and fragile consumer self is easily fragmented and dispirited.

By their design, the central organizing principles and practices of consumer culture perpetuate an ‘existential vacuum’ that is a precursor to demoralization. This inner void is often experienced as chronic and inescapable boredom, which is not surprising. Despite surface appearances to the contrary, the consumer age is deathly boring. Boredom is caused, not because an activity is inherently boring, but because it is not meaningful to the person. Since the life of the consumer revolves around the overkill of meaningless manufactured low-level material desires, it is quickly engulfed by boredom, as well as jadedness, ennui and discontent. This steadily graduates to ‘existential boredom’ wherein the person finds all of life uninteresting and unrewarding.

Moral net Consumption itself is a flawed motivational platform for a society. Repeated consummation of desire, without moderating constraints, only serves to habituate people and diminish the future satisfaction potential of what is consumed.

This develops gradually into ‘consumer anhedonia’, wherein consumption loses reward capacity and offers no more than distraction and ritualistic value. Consumerism and psychic deadness are inexorable bedfellows.

Individualistic models of mind have stymied our understanding of many disorders that are primarily of cultural origin.

But recent years have seen a growing interest in the topic of cultural health and illhealth as they impact upon general wellbeing. At the same time, we are moving away from naïve behavioural models and returning to the obvious fact that the human being has a fundamental nature, as well as a distinct set of human needs, that must be addressed by a cultural blueprint.

In his groundbreaking book The Moral Order, anthropologist Raoul Naroll used the term ‘moral net’ to indicate the cultural infrastructure that is required for the mental wellbeing of its members. He used numerous examples to show that entire societies can become predisposed to an array of

mental ills if their ‘moral net’ deteriorates beyond a certain point. To avoid this, a society’s moral net must be able to meet the key psycho-social-spiritual needs of its members, including a sense of identity and belonging, cooperative activities that weave people into a community, and shared rituals and beliefs that offer a convincing existential orientation.

Similarly, in The Sane Society, Erich Fromm cited ‘frame of orientation’ as one of our vital ‘existential needs’, but pointed out that today’s ‘marketing characters’ are shackled by a cultural programme that actively blocks fulfilment of this and other needs, including the needs for belonging, rootedness, identity, transcendence and intellectual stimulation. We are living under conditions of ‘cultural insanity’, a term referring to a pathological mismatch between the inculturation strategies of a culture and the intrapsychic needs of its followers. Being normal is no longer a healthy ambition.

Human culture has mutated into a sociopathic marketing machine dominated by economic priorities and psychological manipulation. Never before has a cultural system inculcated its followers to suppress so much of their humanity. Leading this hostile takeover of the collective psyche are increasingly sophisticated propaganda and misinformation industries that traffic the illusion of consumer happiness by wildly amplifying our expectations of the material world. Today’s consumers are by far the most propagandized people in history. The relentless and repetitive effect is highly hypnotic, diminishing critical faculties, reducing one’s sense of self, and transforming commercial unreality into a surrogate for meaning and purpose.

The more lost, disoriented and spiritually defeated people become, the more susceptible they become to persuasion, and the more they end up buying into the oversold expectations of consumption.

But in unreality culture, hyper-inflated expectations continually collide with the reality of experience. Since nothing lives up to the hype, the world of the consumer is actually an ongoing exercise in disappointment. While most disappointments are minor and easy to dissociate, they accumulate into an emotional background of frustration as deeper human needs get neglected. Continued starvation of these needs fuels disillusion about one’s whole approach to life. Over time, people’s core assumptions can become unstable.

Culture proofing At its heart, demoralization is a generalized loss of credibility in the assumptions that ground our existence and guide our actions. The assumptions underpinning our allegiance to consumerism are especially vulnerable since they are fun-

damentally dehumanizing. As they unravel, it becomes increasingly difficult to identify with the values, goals and aspirations that were once part of our consumer reality. The consequent feeling of being forsaken and on the wrong life track is easily mistaken for depression, or even unhappiness, but in fact it is the type of demoralization that most consumer beings will experience to some degree.

For the younger generation, the course of boredom, disappointment, disillusion and demoralization is almost inevitable. As the products of invisible parents, commercialized education, cradle-to-grave marketing and a profoundly boring and insane cultural programme, they must also assimilate into consumer culture while knowing from the outset that its workings are destroying the planet and jeopardizing their future. Understandably, they have become the trance generation, with an insatiable appetite for any technology that can downsize awareness and blunt the emotions. With society in existential crisis, and emotional life on a steep downward trajectory, trance is today’s fastest-growing consumer market.

Once our collapsed assumptions give way to demoralization, the problem becomes how to rebuild the unconscious foundations of our lives. In their present forms, the psychology and psychiatry professions are of little use in treating disorders that are rooted in culture and normality. While individual therapy will not begin to heal a demoralized society, to be effective such approaches must be insight-oriented and focused on the cultural sources of the person’s assumptions, identity, values and centres of meaning.

Cultural deprogramming is essential, along with ‘culture proofing’, disobedience training and character development strategies, all aimed at constructing a worldview that better connects the person to self, others and the natural world.

The real task is somehow to treat a sick culture rather than its sick individuals. Erich Fromm sums up this challenge: ‘We can’t make people sane by making them adjust to this society. We need a society that is adjusted to the needs of people.’ Fromm’s solution included a Supreme Cultural Council that would serve as a cultural overseer and advise governments on corrective and preventive action. But that sort of solution is still a long way off, as is a science of culture change.

Democracy in its present guise is a guardian of cultural insanity.

We are long overdue a cultural revolution that would force a radical revamp of the political process, economics, work, family and environmental policy. It is true that a society of demoralized people is unlikely to revolt even though it sits on a massive powder keg of pent-up frustration. But credibility counteracts demoralization, and this frustration can be released with immense energy when a credible cause, or credible leadership, is added to the equation.

It might seem that credibility, meaning and purposeful action would derive from the multiple threats to our safety and survival posed by the fatal mismatch between consumer culture and the needs of the planet. The fact that it has not highlights the degree of demoralization that infects the consumer age. With its infrastructure firmly entrenched, and minimal signs of collective resistance, all signs suggest that our obsolete system – what some call ‘disaster capitalism’ – will prevail until global catastrophe dictates for us new cultural directions.

John F Schumaker is a retired psychology academic living in Christchurch, New Zealand/ Aotearoa.

2017 to Bring Rise in Violent Persecution of Christians Worldwide: Report reveals Anugrah Kumar

C

The Christian Post

hristians living in Islamic countries as well as in the world's two most populous countries of India and China are set to face heightened threats of violent persecution at the hands of both state and non-state actors in 2017, Release International has warned.

The U.K.-based group's annual Persecution Trends report says that apart from the rise of brutalities against Christians in the Middle East, there's a reason to worry about the safety of Christians also in India and China.

"In India, recorded attacks from Hindu militants have increased dramatically, and in China, pressure is building on unregistered churches," Release International says.

"Around the world Christians face an increasing array of violent persecutors.

These include the brutal Islamic State in

the Middle East, heavily armed militants in Nigeria and Hindu extremists in India," says Release Chief Executive Paul Robinson, adding that the trend should serve as "a wake-up call to take our prayers and practical support for our persecuted family to a new level."

The refugee crisis in the regions neighbouring conflict-ridden Syria and Iraq is likely to continue in 2017, the group says, noting that one focus will be Kurdistan in northern Iraq, which is now home to nearly 2 million internally displaced people, including Christians.

The Islamic State terror group, also known as IS, ISIS, ISIL or Daesh, has tortured, sexually abused and even crucified those who refuse to renounce their faith in Syria and Iraq.

Persecution in the Shia Muslim nation of Iran is also on the rise, and the clampdown on underground churches

will likely carry on, the group warns.

In Nigeria, Christian communities in north and central parts continue to face widespread violence at the hands of heavily armed Fulani militants. The military defeat the Boko Haram group is suffering has not brought down the suffering of Christians there, the group adds.

In Pakistan, Christians have been suffering accusations of blasphemy and bombings, the group notes.

In India, the Religious Liberty Commission of the Evangelical Fellowship of India recorded 134 attacks on Christians or churches in the first half of 2016 alone, which is close to the annual totals for both 2014 and 2015 combined, the group noted, adding that attacks on Christians will likely continue to rise in 2017.

In China, the Communist government's 2016 draft Regulations on Religious Affairs looks set to in-

wRiTE-wiNg

crease the pressure on unregistered churches in particular. "China's policy of Sinicisation to make the Church somehow more Chinese in character — looks set to bite down harder in the new year."

On the U.N.'s International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of Genocide last month, other persecution watchdogs also said that Christians continued to be some of the most widely targeted people.

London-based Christian Solidarity Worldwide called for the "perpetrators of crimes against humanity" in North Korea and Eritrea to be held to account.

Last month, Pope Francis said the church has more martyrs today than the early church did.

"But why does the world persecute Christians?" the pontiff asked. "The world hates Christians for the same reason it hated Jesus: because He brought the light of God and the world prefers the darkness to hide its wicked works."

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

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

WednesdAY 04•01•2017

Morung Express Learning

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

7

MEHOUVIÜ AND MORUSA : An Angami Naga Folk Tale

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ong ago there was once a girl name Mehouviü. She was the most wise maiden of her village. Added to that blessing, she possessed a very pleasing personality. There were many young men in her village who courted her,

but she felt that she was not ready to take any one of them as husband.

Morusa was a famous warrior of Mima. He was tall and strong and already had taken many heads. In the neighboring villages, there were few who had not heard of him. Mehouviü’s refusal of marriage to any man in her village could probably have been due to the fact that some of her friends had told her of the warrior, Morusa, who could possibly become a suitor.

Morusa's uncle advised him to take a wife and when someone suggested the virtuous Mehouviü, the warrior agreed to the proposal.

Morusa and Mehouviü lived in the age where honor and reputation were highly valued. The quest for honor drove man into the battlefield

again and again. Warriors killed enemy warriors in order to take their heads as trophies. That was the life Morusa lived.

Everything would have gone smoothly if the two had not lived in this age. It endangered his life to the extent that he could not indulge in the ordinary courtship of his betrothed.

He could not visit her and indulge in the engaging, long talks that were the privilege of betrothed couples. So he was preparing to marry a woman he had never seen though he had heard enough good reports.

Meanwhile Mehouviü was happy. She feasted her female friends and waited for her wedding day. However, a few weeks before the wedding, she had the strangest dreams. She

dreamed she was in Morusa's house with a heaped plate of rice and meat set before her. Her listeners thought it was simply a foretaste of things to come. When they were married, she would become a member of Morusa's rich household. She dreamt this dream repeatedly.

With few days left before the wedding, Morusa became restless.

He wanted to impress his bride by doing something of note and prove himself a worthy suitor.

So he set out on his quest, and on that day, he did not encounter any enemy warriors at all. He decided to travel further. As fate would have it, his steps led him to a village that was unknown to him, the village of his beloved Mehouviü.

The village inhabitants were away in their fields so it was quite deserted. However, he spied a woman weaving at her porch. She had very long hair, was attractive and tall. The warrior hesitated a little to kill such a well-formed woman. Yet even as he wavered, he noticed her lustrous hair and thought how well it would look as an ornament of war.

So he swiftly stepped up to her, taking her by complete surprise. He slid her weaving loom off and drove his spear into her heart. Next he took her head as a trophy and proudly bore it home.

The two villages of the betrothed couple were some distance away from each other. Mehouviü's relatives were heartbroken to dis-

cover her killing just days before her wedding. They sent messenger to Morusa's village where the preparations were underway. The sad news of her death was brought to Morusa as well as the fact that she had been slain by a warrior. Morusa was grief-stricken.

Later Morusa and his relatives pieced together the bits of information they had on the whereabouts of the two and they came to the sad realization that Morusa had unknowingly killed his own beloved. The shock and grief of both clans were unimaginable.

[Story by Zhalevono Shohe; Extracted from the book, “Retelling Naga Narratives: More Than Thrice-Told Tales,” published by Heritage Publishing House]

A common Language

- Tokaholi Chishi

The ground resonates with an echo of voices; Infused with sparks that emit from the hearts, Of beings who speak a language of art.

Their speech shaded with vibrant edges as they pour their spirits in works of new beginnings.

With grace they sketch, With life they play.

Their harmony raised in perfect unison as drums roll in pleasant division.

The scenic view and whistling leaves felt complete, In the presence of the singing freed in sweet release.

I count myself favored against the winter sun, I find myself thankful in the wonder around.

The air has a rhythm of the makers glance, He sits and waits for us to behave, Exactly the way He shaped us to display in the most creative array.

My soul feels complete, I am satisfied.

Tokaholi, a graduate from SD Jain College, Dimapur is seen reciting her poem at a recent event in Dimapur. Her poem can be accessed on instagram - Closet Poet (@tokaholi_chishi )

Weekly InternshIp lIst (Top left) A young artist tries figuring out and scaling a monument during an ‘Art Picnic’ held in Dimapur's Dimasa Kachari Ruins on December 29, 2016. Initiated by Temsuyanger Longkumer, a London-based artist, the event was the second edition of the ‘Art Picnic’, which was first held in Kohima and Dimapur in 2015. (Top right) A young girl is seen explaining her art work to the artist. (Bottom) Some finished paintings at the event. Artists including painters, sculptors, musicians and poets converged at the Rajbari monument site in Dimapur to take part in the event. (Morung Photo)

Detecting misinformation can boost memory: Study

P

eople who can notice misinformation that is inconsistent with the original event may have better memory compared with people who never saw the misinformation, a study has found.

The findings showed that although exposure to misinformation seemed to impair memory for the correct detail, detecting and remembering misinformation in the narrative seemed to improve participants' recognition later on.

Details that were less memorable, relatively speaking, were more

GreetInGs The Morung Learning Team thanks the readers for their support and contributions throughout 2016 and wishes everyone a blessed and meaningful 2017. It is our earnest desire for this page to be interactive as well as educative, and we sincerely seek your feedback and contribution. Send us your opinion, poems, articles, campus news and photos or any other feedbacks to morunglearning@gmail.com or Text/ WhatsApp @ 8794005039/7085976283

Quiz #42

vulnerable to the misinformation effect, the researchers said.

"Our study shows that misinformation can sometimes enhance memory rather than harm it," said lead author Adam Putnam.

"These findings are important because they help explain why misinformation effects occur sometimes but not at other times -- if people notice that the misinformation isn't accurate then they won't have a false memory," Putnam, who is a psychological scientist at Carleton College in Minnesota, US added.

The study suggests that the

a) Pawan Hans b) Global Vectra Helicorp Limited c) King Rotors and Air Charter Pvt Ltd d) Heligo Charters Pvt. Ltd

2. Who was appointed the new Lt. Governor of Delhi?

a) Najeeb Jung c)Kapil Mishra

b) Arvind Kejriwal d) Anil Baijal

3. How many earthquakes rocked Japan in the year 2016?

a) 6566 c) 12165

b) 10511 d) 16561

4. Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently launched an Aadhaar-based mobile payment application to promote and make digital transactions easier. What is it called?

a) Unified Payment Interface (UPI) b) Unstructured Supplementary Service Data (USSD) c) Bharat Interface for Money (BHIM) d) PayTM

5. Who is the world’s highest paid footballer?

a) Lionel Messi c) Paul Pogba

b) Cristiano Ronaldo d) Carlos Tevez

Send in your answers to the Morung Express Office (address given below) or email to morunglearning@gmail.com or WhatsApp/SMS @ 7085976283 Answers to Quiz #41 – 1-c, 2-b, 3-d, 4-a, 5-b Winner of last week’s contest:

Kavio Sono, Delhi Public School, Dimapur Each week, one lucky winner will be given a prize of Rs. 500.

Winners may collect the same from The Morung Express Office, H/No.4 Duncan Basti, Dimapur *Winners should bring along a valid ID to claim the prizes

IANS

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The Dark Side of Online Gaming

From simple arcade games like the Mr Pac-Man, we have come a long way. Video games today employ advanced graphics which make it vastly realistic. Over the years, people have been increasingly concerned about the vivid violence which forms an integral part of many of these games. Gamers maim and kill for scores in games like Dead Space and Medal of Honour. Grand Theft Auto V allows players to have sex with a hooker who can be strangled at the end. How are these ‘realistic’ games affecting the way we perceive and interact with the real world?

PArticiPAtE & wiN 1. This company was flagged off on January 2, 2017 as Nagaland’s Helicopter service provider for a period of two years –

relationship between misinformation and memory is more complex than we might have thought -- mere exposure to misinformation does not automatically cue the misinformation effect, the researchers noted.

"Classic interference theory in memory suggests that change is almost always bad for memory, but our study is one really clear example of how change can help memory in the right circumstances," Putnam explained.

The study was published in the journal Psychological Science.

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Noktinaro Aier, Assistant Professor, Department of Education

“As computer and Internet use has become a staple of everyday life, the potential for overuse is introduced, which may lead to addiction. Addiction to the Internet shares some of the negative aspects of substance addiction and has been shown to lead to consequences such as failing school, family, and relationship problems.”

O

nline games are frowned upon by parents as time-wasters, and worse, some education experts think these games corrupt the brain. Playing violent games are easily blamed by the media and some experts as reasons why some become violent or commit anti-social behaviours. I did go through Rhilo Mero’s article on “Pokemon Go: What’s all the Fuss about?”, after reading it, it made me ponder as to how online games have affected today’s crowd, especially the youths. I would like to bring to attention some of its negative aspects, mainly because I too have been a victim of these over addictive online games. I use the word ‘victim’ as it has done more damage than good. I turned more like a dumb zombie hooked either in my smartphone or the computer screen. Some of the most addictive online games such as Dota (Defence of the Ancient) are venomous because today’s youth, especially young boys, are widely affected bringing with it a whole lot of

failures in so many aspects of their lives.

Most of the bad effects of these games are blamed for the violence they contain.

But when youths are questioned about these games, they strongly defend their addiction maintaining that games do not hamper them in any way, that they are purposeful, and that gaming can be a career if they are good enough to qualify for international tournaments and so on. These are, of course, just excuses deviating them from the real world. Youths who play violent games are more likely to have increased aggressive thoughts, feelings, and decreased pro-social behaviours. Some other addictive games such as the Clash of Clans, Teenpati, and other RPG games such as Diablo, League of legends, etc. are equally harmful.

The effect of Dota violence in youths is worsened by the games’ interactive nature. In many games, a person is rewarded for being more violent. The act of violence is done repeatedly. Indeed, many studies (Anderson & Dill, 2000; Gentile, Lynch & Walsh, 2004) seem to indicate violent games may lead to aggressive behaviours.

However, the evidence is not consistent, and this issue is far from settled.

The American Psychological Association (APA) also concluded that there is a “consistent correlation” between violent games and aggression, but finds insufficient evidence to link violent video play to criminal violence. An open letter by a number of media scholars, psychologists, and criminologists, have found the study and conclusion done by APA to be misleading and alarmist. Indeed there are cases of teenagers who committed

violent crimes to spend a great amount of time playing online games. It appears that there will always be violent people, and it just so happens that many of them also enjoy playing violent games.

Too much of gaming makes the youth socially isolated. Also, they may spend less time in other activities such as doing homework, reading, sports and interacting with family and friends. Some violent games teach them wrong values. Violent behaviour, vengeance, and aggression are rewarded. Negotiating and other nonviolent solutions are often ignored.

Games can confuse reality and fantasy.

Academic achievement may be related to overall time spent playing these games. Studies show that the more time a youth spends playing games, the poorer is his performance in school. (Anderson & Dill, 2000; Gentile, Lynch & Walsh, 2004). A study by Argosy University Minnesota School of Professional Psychology found that game addicts argue more with their teachers, fight with their friends, and score lower grades than others who are not addicted to games. Other studies show that many game players routinely skip their homework to play games, and many students admitted their game habits for poor school grades.

Additionally, it also damages the long-term concentration of students. It may also have bad effects on the health, including obesity, video-induced seizures, postural, muscular, and skeletal disorders, such as tendonitis, nerve compression, carpal tunnel syndrome, insomnia, restlessness, and so on.

Additions to these games increase individual’s depression and anxiety levels.

They also exhibit social phobias. Not surprisingly, their school performance suffers.

It also affects individuals’ attention level.

Online gaming indeed does more damage than good: social paralyses, unhealthy physical conditions, disconnect with families, increased level of depression, outburst of anger, pending works, slowly diminishing into a world of hopelessness, and lack of confidence in putting up with the realities of life are some of the few maladies afflicting the individuals. These negative effects should make us ponder as to whether online games are doing us any good? Learn to question yourselves. Ask whether these games will sustain your lives in the future.

If gaming leads you towards failure in life, then this ought to be a wake-up call. Stay away from it, do things that will improve you and not destroy your life. Replace it with more resourceful activities such as inperson interactions with friends and families. It is better to stay away from online games if your balance in life is widely affected, especially students who spend much of their time gaming and losing themselves in the virtual world. It is high time that we avoid such questionable source of living, where we gain nothing but social and personal problems.

Degree of Thought is a weekly community column initiated by Tetso College in partnership with The Morung Express. Degree of Thought will delve into the social, cultural, political and educational issues around us. The views expressed here do not reflect the opinion of the institution. Tetso College is a NAAC Accredited UGC recognised Commerce and Arts College. The editors are Dr. Hewasa Lorin, Anjan Behera, Dr. Salikyu Sangtam, Nivibo Yiki, and Kvulo Lorin. For feedback or comments please email: dot@tetsocollege.org.

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

wednesdAY 04•01•2017

INDIA

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Mamata flays Trinamool leader's arrest, BJP office attacked Trinamool Congress MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay was arrested by the CBI in connection with the Rose Valley Chit Fund scam

KolKata, JaNuary 3 (iaNS): West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday dubbed the arrest of Trinamool Congress MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay as "vendetta politics" by the Centre as her supporters attacked the BJP office here, leaving some 15 people injured. A furious Banerjee also announced nationwide protests against the Modi government's "vindictive attitude".

Bandyopadhyay was

earlier arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in connection with the Rose Valley Chit Fund scam after being calle3d to the CBI office for interrogation.

Banerjee demanded the arrest of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and BJP President Amit Shah instead.

"We strongly condemn the politically vindictive attitude of Modi and Amit Shah. They have arrested our Parliamentary Party leader Sudip Bandyopadhyay. He is a veteran politician and senior leader of our party.

"It is all because of our fight against NoteBandi (note ban). We are and will be with the people.

Nothing can stop us from

being with the people and we will continue with our protest against NoteBandi," she added.

"We condemn, condemn and condemn this," she said in a Facebook post.

As news of the MP's arrest spread, hundreds of Trinamool activists took to the streets. A mob attacked the Bharatiya Janata Party office here with stones and vandalized cars parked outside.

The BJP said 15 of its activists were injured. A few bled from the head as they spoke to the media.

Banerjee vowed to launch pan-India protests against what she said was the Centre's vindictive attitude beginning on Wednesday.

"We will hold a demonstration in front of Kolkata RBI on January 9 and there will be dharnas in 10 different states including Delhi, Assam, Odisha and Tripura on January 10 and 11," she said.

"I also run a government and I also have the power to arrest certain people who are thieves, hooligans and extortionists. This arrest has been made under pressure from the PMO. "This is vendetta politics because the Trinamool is fighting against the Centre over demonetisation," she told the media.

Banerjee urged people to hit the streets against the Centre.

"I challenge the PM, he cannot do anything, can't

suppress the voice of the people. He can't bulldoze people. Many political parties are scared, but are not able to speak out.

"Emergency situation is going on. People should come out on roads against demonetisation, people will teach them a lesson," she said.

Dismissing the allegations, BJP leader Piyush Goyal said the central government "never interferes" in any investigation process.

"We never interfere in any investigation process," Goyal said here.

Asked about opposition protests against demonetisation, Goyal said: "This is political opposition. People of India have supported the move."

Congress accuses Modi of vendetta politics

New Delhi, JaNuary 3 (iaNS): The Congress on Tuesday condemned the arrest of Trinamool Congress MP Sudip Bandyopadhyay by the CBI and accused the Narendra Modi government of pursuing vendetta politics.

Joining voices with Trinamool supremo and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, Congress spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said the Modi government has been unleashing central agencies on the opposition, which has been opposing the Centre's November 8 decision of demonetising Rs 1,000 and Rs 500 notes.

"Everyday we see central agencies like the CBI, Enforcement Directorate (ED) being pushed and pressurised by none less than the Prime Minister and his office to unleash vendetta against political opponents who are raising their voice," said Surjewala.

"Arrest of Bandyopadhyay is nothing

Government to provide Rs 6000 Jammu & Kashmir : Over 2,600 casto pregnant and lactating women es of stone pelting till December 31 New Delhi, JaNuary 3 (Pti): To ensure pregnant and lactating mothers attains optimal nutritional status, Government will provide cash incentive of Rs 6000 for the wage loss so that the woman can take adequate rest before and after delivery and also to improve her health and nutrition during the period.

The Ministry of Women and Child Development, in accordance with the provisions of Section 4(b) of National Food Security Act, formulated a scheme for pregnant and lactating mothers called Maternity Benefit

Programme a conditional cash transfer scheme.

"The Scheme provides cash incentives to pregnant and lactating women for the wage loss so that they can take adequate rest before and after delivery; to improve her health and nutrition during the period of pregnancy and lactation and to breastfeed the child during the first six months of the birth, which is very vital for the development of the child," said a statement issued by WCD. Under the scheme, all pregnant women and lactating mothers excluding the those who are in regular em-

ployment with the Central Government or State Governments or public sector undertakings, are eligible.

The cash incentive of Rs 6,000 will be paid in three instalments for the first two live births at the stages of early registration of pregnancy, at the time of institutional delivery and 3 months after delivery if the child birth is registered, child has received BCG vaccination and has received OPV and DPT-1 & 2.

The cash transfer would be Aadhaar linked through the individual bank or post office account in DBT mode.

Karnataka: Police in Bengaluru urged to investigate New Year attacks on women BeNGaluru, JaNuary 3 (reuterS): Reports of sexual assaults on women revellers at New Year's Eve celebrations in Bengaluru have spurred women's rights activists to demand that police investigate.

The attacks, reminiscent of those blamed on migrants in German cities last year, shocked many Indians, since Bengaluru, home to many well-educated professionals, is regarded as safer for women than the capital, New Delhi.

Several women were groped and assaulted by a mob in the city's central business district on Dec. 31 as they celebrated, according to a Reuters witness and a report in the Bangalore Mirror newspaper.

"I saw groups of boys deliberately falling over girls," said the Reuters witness, who was in the area with his family, as he described the screams and

attempts of some women to push men away.

Sex crimes are common in India, where the National Crime Record Bureau says more than 34,000 rapes were reported in all in 2015, although women sometimes do not report assaults for fear of the associated social stigma.

Authorities face criticism for not doing enough to tackle a weak system of law enforcement and policing that leaves women vulnerable.

"The image of the city has been tarnished," said Mathews Philip, an executive director for Human Rights Education and Monitoring.

Police have said they are looking at surveillance footage but had not received any complaints of sexual assault.

The Karnataka State Commission for Women on Tuesday said it had asked the city's police commissioner for a detailed report,

although it, too, said it not received any complaints.

Bangalore Police Commissioner Praveen Sood could not be reached for comment. Police would investigate "if we are given coordinates of any lady molested," he said on social network Twitter earlier on Tuesday.

Every year, hundreds of people flock to pubs and restaurants in Bengaluru's M.G. Road and Brigade Road to ring in the New Year, with traffic barred for the celebrations, which turned chaotic this time, witnesses said.

"Many girls were molested, abused or groped," said Anantha Subramanyam, chief photographer of the Bangalore Mirror, who took photographs that were published in the newspaper.

He took pictures of women fleeing without their shoes, begging for help and weeping, he added.

Jammu, JaNuary 3 (Pti): Army soldiers patrol near the highly militarized Line of Control dividing Kashmir between India and Pakistan, in Pallanwal sector, about 75 kilometers from Jammu Army soldiers patrol near the highly militarized Line of Control dividing Kashmir between India and Pakistan, in Pallanwal sector, about 75 kilometers from Jammu As many as 2,690 cases have been registered in connection with stone pelting incidents in Kashmir and 16 have been lodged for snatching of weapons till the end of last year, the state government said on Tuesday.

463 people were also detained under Public Safety Act out of whom 145 were released, with 318 still under detention as on December 29, Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti said in a written reply to MLA Engineer Abdul Rasheed in the state Assembly here today.

Demonstrators hurl stones towards policemen during a protest in Srinagar. (Reuters File Photo)

The cases are under investigation, she said, adding that 76 people, besides 2 policemen, lost their lives during the unrest in Valley.

The killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani triggered violent protests and law and order disturbances in various parts of Kashmir valley.

Meanwhile last year saw 216 militancy-related inci-

dents in which 150 militants were killed and 81 security personnel lost their lives, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti said today.

Till December 21, 216 militancy-related incidents were recorded. 143 such incidents were reported in 2015 and 151 in 2014, the chief minister said in a written reply in the state Assembly.

but to unleash vendetta and suppress the voice of opposition," he said.

"From the day Mamata Banerjee held a joint press conference with (Congress Vice President) Rahul Gandhi and other opposition leaders, a new wave of vendetta has been unleashed by Modi," said Surjewala.

The Congress leader was referring to the December 27 presser by several opposition parties where Banerjee had demanded Modi own up responsibility for demonetisation and quit as Prime Minister.

Surjewala also questioned why union minister Babul Supriyo who has been accused of being involved in the alleged Rose Valley scam was not arrested or grilled by the CBI. Supriyo has rubbished Paul's allegations and has threatened to file a defamation case against him.

Submit list of corporates with dues of over Rs 500 crore: SC New Delhi, JaNuary 3 (iaNS): The Supreme Court on Tuesday asked the Centre to place before it within four weeks a list of corporate entities with outstanding debts in excess of Rs 500 crore and details of cases pending before Debt Recovery Tribunals (DRTs) and Debt Recovery Appellate Tribunals (DRATs) for more than 10 years.

The court sought latest details on cases pending before the DRTs and DRATs and the amount involved. The apex court noted that "more than 70,000 cases involving approximately Rs 5 lakh crore are pending before the Debt Recovery Tribunals, of which many are pending for more than 10 years". The Supreme Court directed the Centre to file an affidavit furnishing information on five counts, including infrastructure and manpower of the DRT and DRAT. The bench of Chief Justice T.S. Thakur, Justice A.M. Khanwilkar and Justice D.Y. Chandrachud said that the filing of the affidavit will not impede the functioning of a committee set up by the government in the matter.

Budget session likely from Jan 31

New Delhi, JaNuary 3 (iaNS): The Cabinet Committee on Parliamentary Affairs (CCPA) on Tuesday recommended starting the budget session of Parliament from January 31, official sources said here. The CCPA met on Tuesday morning and decided that the first half of the budget session should be held from January 31 to February 9. This is around a month earlier than the usual time for the Budget session. The recommendation will now be sent to President Pranab Mukherjee for his consent.

Informed sources said the general budget is likely to be presented on February 1, which would be a first. The budget so far has usually been presented at the end of February. In another first, the Railway Budget is likely to be merged with the General Budget this time. The Finance Ministry had constituted a five-member committee comprising senior officials of the ministry and the Inshould be tweaked further dian Railways to work out the modalities for the merger. to improve financial security. "Though the scheme is laudable, it may be tweaked further. The lock-in period Karaikal, January 3 (PTI): Former Puducherry Agriculof 10 years is quite a long ture Minister VMC Sivakumar was hacked to death by span of time in the case of an unidentified gang here today, police said. Sivakumar senior citizens, given the was on his way to inspect construction work when his life expectancy of around car was blocked by the gang at Neravy-TR Pattinam near 68 years in India."

Tamil Nadu's Nagapattinam district and attacked with "We suggest that the sickles, police said. He was rushed to government hospilock-in period should be tal, where he was declared brought dead, they said. at most five years rather 67-year-old Sivakumar is survived by wife, two sons than 10 years," the report and two daughters. He was the speaker of Puducherry stated. "The rate of interAssembly from 1996 to 2000. Sivakumar was MLA for five est should be a minimum of 8% or whatsoever pre- terms - four times on DMK ticket and once as indepenvailing in the market with dent - since 1980 representing Neravy-TR Pattinam cona defined upper bound," stituency.He is now with AIADMK. it suggested. It further said that a maximum deposit limit should be Rs 15 lakh, instead of the proposed Rs 7.5 lakh.

DharamSala, JaNuary 3 (iaNS): The Tibetan parliament-in-exile on Tuesday appealed to the United Nations to reaffirm its commitment and conviction on the resolutions adopted by its general assembly on Tibet and restart the Sino-Tibet dialogue. In a letter addressed counterparts. For instance, to UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres, it said: "The MP spends Rs 11,927 ($175) situation inside Tibet continues to remain grim and per student, while Tamil alarming despite China's lofty claims of having liberated Nadu spends Rs 16,914 per and developed Tibet for the past 66 years."

"Since 2009, over 145 Tibetans in Tibet have resorted student, the Economic and to self-immolation in protest against China's rule in TiPolitical Weekly reported bet...

Therefore, we are optimistic on the resumption of in September 2016. The per student spending, at Rs Sino-Tibet dialogue and the resolution of the Tibet issue 5,298, in Bihar is even lower. during your term," the letter added. The UN General AsAnother important fac- sembly has passed three resolutions on Tibet and the last tor, parent's education, one was on December 18, 1965. The Dalai Lama fled Tibet impacts school education, after a failed uprising against Chinese Communist rule in according to a 2001 paper 1959. The government-in-exile is based in Dharamsala published in the Review of but has not won recognition from any country.

Development Economics.

As many as 99.1 per cent mothers in Kerala -- the state with the highest literacy -- received schooling, compared to 30.3 per cent New Delhi, JaNuary 3 (iaNS): Defence Minster mothers in Rajasthan in Manohar Parrikar on Tuesday said that around 20 lakh 2014, according to the ASER pensioners have been paid the benefits of One Rank One - Trends Over Time report. Pension so far, and more than 99 per cent of cases will Further, factors such be settled by January-end. "So far, we have already paid as wealth have a greater the benefits to more than 19,70,000 pensioners. Around effect on enrolment in 68,000 pension cases were in scrutiny in the month of poorer states.

December. The targeted time schedule was end of DeOverall, in India, chil- cember and 13,000 cases are sent to pension dispersing dren from rich families are authority," Parrikar said at a press conference. more likely to be enrolled in "With that I think almost 99 per cent of the eligible school than children from cases will be settled probably by January. One per cent is poor families, but this gap not being able to trace them, probably dead," the minister is greater in UP and Bihar said. Parrikar said he has "instructed all the agencies to go than it is in Kerala, accord- and find out such cases". OROP for retired armed forces ing to a 2001 study by Deon personnel was announced on September 5, 2015. The Filmer and Lant Pritchett, scheme took 2013 as the base year to calculate pensions published in the journal and date of implementation was July 1, 2014. The period Demography. for review was kept at five years.

PM's New Year-eve sops to cost over Rs 3,500 cr New Delhi, JaNuary 3 (iaNS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcements on the New Year's Eve, including sops in housing, agriculture and for pregnant women, will cost the economy a total of over Rs 3,500 crore annually, a State Bank of India report said on Tuesday.

"The overall fiscal impact of all these measures will be around Rs 3,500 crore per year," State Bank of India's (SBI) Ecowrap report read.

Modi announced two housing schemes in urban areas for persons of economically weaker section (EWS) or low income group (LIG) with income up to Rs 6 lakh, which will cost Rs 1,000 crore per year, the report

said. The scheme for financial assistance to pregnant women, wherein Rs 6,000 will be transferred directly to the bank accounts of these women, will cost Rs 1,200 crore to the government.

The relief measure for farmers, which will exempt the loans for Rabi crop from interest for a period of 60 days, will put a burden of Rs 1,300 crore on the government.

Modi also announced a scheme for senior citizens, under which they will receive a fixed interest rate of 8% for a period of 10 years on deposits up to Rs 7.5 lakh, and the interest amount can be paid monthly.

The report said that the senior citizens' scheme

Fmr Puducherry speaker hacked to death

Tibetan parliament-in-exile asks UN to restart Sino-Tibet talks

India's school education challenge: Crisis in BIMARU states Khushboo Balani IndiaSpend and IANS

B

y 2020, India will have the worlds largest working population-- 869 million -- but an IndiaSpend analysis of indicators on literacy, school enrolment, learning outcomes, and education spending across four states -- with 43.6 per cent of Indias school-age population between the ages of five and 14 -- revealed that India is unprepared to educate and train its young population.

Overall, India's literacy rate has increased 8.66 percentage points to 74.04 per cent between 2001 and 2011, according to Census data, but wide variations exists across states.

The crisis in education is especially apparent in the four BIMARU states of Bihar, Madhya Pradesh (MP), Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh (UP) -- with 445.1 million of India's 1.2 billion population and some of the lowest literacy rates in the country, according to Census 2011. Bihar had a literacy rate of 61.8 per cent,

A school girl reads her book inside her class at a government-run school in Madhya Pradesh (Reuters File Photo)

Rajasthan of 67.1 per cent, UP of 67.7 per cent and MP a rate of 70.6 per cent in 2011, lower than the all-India average of 74 per cent.

Kerala has a literacy rate of 94 per cent, the highest in the country.

School outcomes are also lower in the four BIMARU states.

In 2014-15, fewer students moved from grade V to grade VI in UP, with a transition rate of 79.1 per cent, when compared to Goa, with a transition rate of almost 100 per cent in 2014-15, according to

data from the Unified District Information System for Education.

In MP, as few as 34.1 per cent of children in grade V could read a grade II text in 2014, compared to 75.2 per cent in the case of Himachal Pradesh, according to the Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) 2014. Similarly, in Rajasthan, 45.9 per cent of children in grade V could "at least" subtract, compared to 87.4 per cent in Mizoram.

Currently, only 2.5 per cent of school-age children between the ages of

five and 14 live in the four states -- Kerala, Mizoram, Tripura and Goa -- with the highest literacy in India, compared to 43.6 per cent in the four BIMARU states, according to Census 2011. Any reform in education in the BIMARU states would have the greatest impact for India.

Over the next century, 60 per cent of the population increase in India would come from the four states of MP, Bihar, UP and Rajasthan, while only 22 per cent would come from the more developed states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Maharashtra, according to a 2003 study published by The Economic and Political Weekly.

UP and Bihar will have India's youngest populations over the next 10 years, as IndiaSpend reported in September 2016, together accounting for 31 per cent of Indians between five and 14 years.

The productivity of India's young population would depend on how these states improve health, education and em-

ployment opportunities, according to a 2013 study published in Asia and Pacific Policy Studies.

Variations across states in India exist not only in literacy and enrolment, but also in factors that might impact future enrolment and learning.

For instance, life expectancy at birth, one of the factors found to affect literacy in India, according to a 2005 World Bank study, varies across states.

For Maharashtra, the state with a literacy rate of 82.3 per cent in 2011, the projected life expectancy at birth for 2011-16 was 70.4 years, based on this report by the Population Reference Bureau. In comparison, MP, with a lower literacy rate of 70.6 per cent, also had a lower projected life expectancy at birth of 61.5 years for 2011-16.

School enrolment is affected by a number of factors including parent's education, wealth of a household, midday meals, infrastructure and more.

Still, the BIMARU states spend less on education than their more literate

99% pensioners will get OROP benefits by January-end: Parrikar

wednesdAY 04•01•2017

WORLD

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

9

Dog fight: Start-ups take aim at errant drones Jeremy Wagstaff and Swati Pandey

A

Reuters

boom in consumer drone sales has spawned a counterindustry of start-ups aiming to stop drones flying where they shouldn't, by disabling them or knocking them out of the sky.

Dozens of start-up firms are developing techniques - from deploying birds of prey to firing gas through a bazooka - to take on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that are being used to smuggle drugs, drop bombs, spy on enemy lines or buzz public spaces.

The arms race is fed in part by the slow pace of government regulation for drones.

In Australia, for example, different agencies regulate drones and counterdrone technologies. "There are potential privacy issues in operating remotely piloted aircraft, but the Civil Aviation Safety Authority's role is restricted to safety.

Privacy is not in our remit," the CASA told Reuters.

"There's a bit of a fear factor here," says Kyle Landry, an analyst at Lux Research. "The high volume of drones, plus regulations that can't quite keep pace, equals a need for personal counter-drone technology."

The consumer drone market is expected to be worth $5 billion by 2021,

according to market researcher Tractica, with the average drone in the United States costing more than $500 and packing a range of features from high-definition cameras to built-in GPS, predicts NPD Group, a consultancy.

Australian authorities relaxed drone regulations in September, allowing anyone to fly drones weighing up to 2kg without training, insurance, registration or certification.

Elsewhere, millions of consumers can fly highend devices - and so can drug traffickers, criminal gangs and insurgents.

Drones have been used to smuggle mobile phones, drugs and weapons into prisons, in one case triggering a riot. One U.S. prison governor has converted a bookshelf into an impromptu display of drones his officers have confiscated.

Armed groups in Iraq, Ukraine, Syria and Turkey are increasingly using offthe-shelf drones for reconnaissance or as improvised explosive devices, says Nic Jenzen-Jones, director of Armament Research Services, a consultancy on weapons.

A booby-trapped drone launched by Islamic State militants killed two Kurdish Peshmerga fighters and wounded two French soldiers in October near Mosul. [nL8N1CI1RB] The use of drones by

A vendor demonstrates the Micro Drone for a prospective retailer at the International Consumer Electronics show (CES) in Las Vegas, Nevada January 6, 2015. (REUTERS PHOTO)

such groups is likely to spread, says Jenzen-Jones.

"There's an understanding that the threat can migrate beyond existing conflict zones," he told Reuters.

ANTI-DRONES This is feeding demand for increasingly advanced technology to bring down or disable unwanted drones.

At one end of the scale, the Dutch national police recently bought several birds of prey from a start-up called Guard From Above

to pluck unwanted drones from the sky, its CEO and founder Sjoerd Hoogendoorn said in an email.

Other approaches focus on netting drones, either via bigger drones or by guns firing a net and a parachute via compressed gas.

Some, like Germany's DeDrone, take a less intrusive approach by using a combination of sensors camera, acoustic, Wi-Fi signal detectors and radio frequency (RF) scanners - to

passively monitor drones within designated areas.

Ne w e r st a r t- u p s, however, are focusing on cracking the radio wireless protocols used to control a drone's direction and payload to then take it over and block its video transmission.

Singapore's TeleRadio Engineering uses RF signals in its SkyDroner device to track and control drones and a video feed to confirm targets visually.

DroneVision Inc of

Taiwan, meanwhile, says it is the first to anticipate the frequency hopping many drones use. Founder Kason Shih says his anti-drone gun - resembling a rifle with two oversized barrels, coupled with a backpack - blocks the drone's GPS signals and video transmission, forcing it back to where it took off via the drone's own failsafe features.

companies say, range from intelligence agencies to hotels. DroneVision, for example, helped local police down 40 drones flying around Taipei 101, one of the world's tallest buildings and a magnet for drone users, in a single day.

In the Middle East, upscale hotels are talking to at least two companies about blocking drones from taking shots of their celebrity guests longing poolside or in the privacy of their bathrooms.

And even while the military, Jenzen-Jones says, may have the capability to bring down drones, demand is shifting to nimbler, more agile devices to cope with attacks using smaller off-the-shelf devices. "The key is looking for systems that are scalable, lightweight and easily deployable," he said.

DroneShield <DRO. AX>, an Australian-listed company, says it has sold its drone detection equipment to an Asian national security agency it declined to identify, and the Turkish prime minister's office.

HEY, REGULATORS The problem, such companies say, is that regulations on the use of drones - and about countering them - are still in their infancy. In countries like the United States and Australia, for example, drones are considered private propVARIED CLIENTELE Clients, the start-up erty, and they can only be

jammed by government agencies.

"Mitigation capabilities," says Jonathan Hunter, CEO of Department, "are therefore limited."

Oleg Vornik, chief financial officer of DroneShield, however, says: "This is expected to change shortly as governments start to recognise that critical infrastructure facilities such as airports need to be able to defend themselves against drones."

In the United States, the Federal Aviation Administration is testing various counter-drone technologies at several airports.

Interest in the space will only grow.

London will next year host the world's first two conferences on counterdrone technologies, says Jenzen-Jones. But there will also likely be consolidation.

DroneShield's Vornik says the company has counted 100 counterdrone start-ups, and is talking to more than a dozen of them as potential acquisition targets.

It's too early, Vornik says, to see evidence of moves to get around anti-drone technology. But Amazon.com last month tested deliveries in the UK via drones, and published a patent describing how it might defend drones from threats, ranging from a bow and arrow to signal jammers.

China tightens Tibetan border Alcohol abuse increases risk of heart disease security to combat 'separatism'

BeIJING, JaNuarY 3 (reuterS): China has tightened security regulations in Tibet's border region to battle the risks of terrorism and 'separatism', the state-owned Global Times said.

The move follows a call by China early in December for southwestern neighbour India to avoid complicating a simmering dispute over a visit by a senior exiled Tibetan religious leader to a border region.

The two countries fought a brief border war in 1962.

Beijing views exiled Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama as a dangerous

separatist. The Nobel Peace Prize winner, who says he simply wants genuine autonomy for his homeland, fled to India in 1959 after a failed uprising against the Chinese.

Sunday's change "provides a legal foundation to combat potential terrorist activities brought by the further opening-up of Tibet," the paper quoted Wang Chunhuan, a scholar of the Tibetan Academy of Social Science, who worked on the new law, as saying.

The measure brings land ports and trade zones within the scope of the previous law, and charges lowlevel government with the responsibility of tipping off

police to help regulate the border, according to the article, published late on Monday.

"The need to combat separatism, infiltration, illegal migration and terrorism is growing more severe by the day," as Tibet's economy opens to the world, Ba Zhu, deputy head of the region's border defence police, said in a Dec. 14 announcement, the official Tibet Legal Newspaper reported at the time.

Rights groups say China tramples on Tibet's religious and cultural traditions, charges denied

by Beijing, which says its troops peacefully liberated Tibet in 1950.

Army troops in Tibet had built a "steel Great Wall" to defend the border, the Himalayan region's Communist Party chief, Wu Yingjie, said in a December speech published on the official China Tibetan News Agency website on Tuesday.

Wu also quoted President Xi Jinping as saying, "To govern the nation, we must govern our borders; to govern our borders, we must first stabilize Tibet."

Military capability in the region must be stiffened so as to "absolutely not allow any person, at any time, in any way, to separate out any part of Tibet," Wu urged.

Christmas message leads to death threats & a police case in Pakistan ISLaMaBaD/LaHore, JaNuarY 3 (reuterS): A Christmas message calling for prayers for those charged under Pakistan's blasphemy laws has led to death threats against the son of a provincial governor killed five years ago for criticising the same laws.

The case highlights the continuing influence in Pakistan of Muslim hardliners who praise violence in the name of defending Islam, despite a government vow to crack down on religious extremism.

The hardliners have called for mass protests if police do not charge activist Shaan Taseer with blasphemy against Islam - a crime punishable by death.

Taseer's father, Punjab governor Salman Taseer, was gunned down by his bodyguard for championing the case of a Christian woman, Asia Bibi, who was sentenced to death under the blasphemy laws, which he said needed to be reformed.

In a video message posted on his Facebook page, Taseer, a Muslim, wishes a happy holiday to Christians, in solidarity, and also asked for prayers for the woman and others victimised by what he called "inhumane" blas-

People walk past an artificial decoration wreath hanging outside a shop selling various items for Christmas celebrations in Karachi, Pakistan, December 24, 2016.

(REUTERS PHOTO)

phemy laws.

Taseer said on Monday that he had received "very credible death threats" from supporters of the hardline Muslim philosophy that inspired his father's killer, bodyguard Mumtaz Qadri.

"They are sending me Mumtaz Qadri's photos with messages that there are several Mumtaz Qadris waiting for me," he told Reuters late on Monday.

Tens of thousands people attended Qadri's funeral last March after he was put to death for killing the governor because they considered him a hero - showing the potential for this case to become another flashpoint.

More than 200 people

in Pakistan were charged under blasphemy laws in 2015 - many of them minorities such as Christians, who make up 1 percent of the population.

Critics say the laws are often used to settle personal scores, and pressure for convictions is often applied on police and courts from religious groups and lawyers dedicated to pushing the harshest blasphemy punishments.

At least 65 people, including lawyers, defendants and judges, have been murdered over blasphemy allegations since 1990, according to figures from a Center for Research and Security Studies report and local media.

A spokesman for the hardline Islamist movement Sunni Tehreek said it was demanding police in Lahore charge Shaan Taseer with blasphemy against Islam.

Police declined to comment, and a copy of the police report on the complaint did not mention Shaan Taseer by name.

The police report did reference the Christmas message and opened an investigation the blasphemy laws' Section 295-A, which bans hate speech against any religion.

However, Sunni Tehreek has threatened mass street protests unless the younger Taseer is charged under Section 295-C - blasphemy against Islam or the Prophet Mohammad.

Sunni Tehreek figure Mujahid Abdur Rasool told Reuters the group was in negotiations with the government over the case.

"When we gave them a warning for protests, a delegation of Punjab government met us today," Rasool said, adding they had set a deadline of Tuesday for police to meet their demands.

He said Sunni Tehreek was not calling for Taseer's murder, only his prosecution and eventual execution.

Punjab government officials could not be reached for comment.

New York, JaNuarY 3 (IaNS): Alcohol addiction can increase the risk of heart attack, atrial fibrillation and congestive heart failure along with other risk factors like diabetes and high blood pressure, a study has found.

The findings showed that alcohol abuse was associated with a two-fold increased risk of atrial fibrillation -- irregular, often rapid heart rate causing poor blood flow.

There is also a 1.4-fold increased risk of heart attack and a 2.3-fold in-

creased risk of congestive heart failure -- a condition in which the heart does not pump blood well.

These increased risks were similar in magnitude to other well-recognised modifiable risk factors such as diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity.

"We found that even if you have no underlying risk factors, abuse of alcohol still increases the risk of these heart conditions," said lead researcher Gregory M. Marcus, Director at the University of California, San Francisco.

Completely eradicat-

ing alcohol abuse would result in over 73,000 fewer atrial fibrillation cases, 34,000 fewer heart attacks, and 91,000 fewer patients with congestive heart failure in the US alone, the researchers noted.

For the study, the team analysed 14.7 million patients from California aged 21 and older who received ambulatory surgery, emergency or inpatient medical care.

Among these 1.8 per cent, or approximately 268,000, were diagnosed with alcohol abuse.

"We were somewhat surprised to find those diagnosed with some form of alcohol abuse were at significantly higher risk of a heart attack," Marcus said.

"We hope this study will temper the enthusiasm for drinking in excess and will avoid any justification for excessive drinking because people think it will be good for their heart. These data pretty clearly prove the opposite," he stated.

The study was published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology.

Investigators question PM Netanyahu for 3 hours over alleged receipt of gifts

JeruSaLeM, JaNuarY 3 (reuterS): Police questioned Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for three hours under caution at his official residence in Jerusalem on Monday on suspicion of receiving gifts from businessmen in breach of his role as a public servant.

Part of a police statement issued after the questioning ended said that "investigators questioned PM Benjamin Netanyahu under caution on suspicion of receiving benefits." No additional details were initially given.

In questioning a suspect under caution, police investigators believe that the person they are interviewing has a case to answer.

The move to question the Israeli leader was authorised by Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit, who decided after a preliminary inquiry that there was enough evidence to open a criminal investigation.

Mandelblit issued a long statement which did not detail the matters being investigated but said the information warranted questioning under caution.

It also mentioned other suspicions which had been checked but did not yield evidence to warrant additional criminal enquiries.

"The nature of the investigation precludes us at this stage from giving details of the ongoing investigation but we will consider releas-

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu chairs the weekly cabinet meeting in Jerusalem January 1, 2017.

(REUTERS PHOTO)

ing more information from time to time according to developments," Mandelblit's statement said.

He added that investigation began three months ago but new, detailed information had come to light during the past month which supported questioning the prime minister under caution.

Before the questioning began, Netanyahu told his ruling Likud faction in parliament that those anticipating his downfall should not expect his imminent departure.

"Wait with the celebrations, don't rush," Netanyahu said. "I've said it before and I'll say it once again: there will be nothing because there is nothing."

Photographers were camped outside the heavily guarded residence, hoping to get pictures of investigators arriving. Black screens were erected inside the gates of the property to

block the view.

Haaretz and other newspapers said the probe related to gifts worth "hundreds of thousands of shekels" ($1=3.85 shekels) given to Netanyahu by Israeli and foreign businessmen.

Channel 2, a commercial network, said the investigation was one of two cases now open against the prime minister, although it said details of the second remained unclear.

Netanyahu, 67, has been in power on and off since 1996. He is currently in his fourth term as prime minister and will become Israel's longest-serving leader if he stays in office until the end of next year.

He and his wife, Sara, have weathered several scandals over the years, including investigations into the misuse of state funds and an audit of the family's spending on everything from laundry to ice cream. They have denied

any wrongdoing.

Netanyahu is not the first prime minister to be questioned in a criminal case.

Ehud Olmert, who held office from 2006 to 2009, is currently serving 18 months in prison after being convicted of breach of trust and bribery in 2014.

Former prime minister Ariel Sharon was questioned while in office in 2003 and 2004 over allegations of bribery and corruption involving him and his two sons. In 2006, his son Omri was convicted of corruption and served time in prison.

Netanyahu's police appointment drew a barrage of commentary from the centre-left opposition in parliament, with politicians calling for him to go. But Yair Lapid, leader of the centrist Yesh Atid party, said that for the good of the country, he hoped the prime minister would be cleared.

"I wish for him and his family, and the State of Israel, that we uncover that there was no fault in his behaviour. If two prime ministers in a row fall from office because of corruption, it will be very hard to rehabilitate the public's trust in its leadership."

Israeli commentators pointed out that while Netanyahu may be questioned, that has happened many times in the past and prime ministers have gone on governing, sometimes for years.

10

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sports

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

NBA: James leads ailing Cavs to win over Pelicans

Los AngeLes, JAnuAry 3 (AFP): LeBron James shook off his flu symptoms to score 26 points Monday, leading a depleted Cleveland Cavaliers squad to a 90-82 home victory over the New Orleans Pelicans.

Channing Frye -- who has also been battling the flu -- added 14 points off the bench for the NBA champion Cavaliers, who rallied despite enduring one of their worst shooting nights of the season.

Kevin Love scored 12 points and pulled down 11 rebounds before departing late in the fourth quarter because of illness.

Love connected on just five of 19 shots from the floor and missed all seven of his three-point attempts, but Cavaliers coach Tyronn Lue was grateful for his contribution.

"We didn't think he was going to be able to play," Lue said, noting that Love had lost 10 pounds (4.5 kg) in the past two days after contracting food poisoning.

"He came out there and gave us 24 strong minutes, which we needed. Just his presence on the floor was big for us and for him to gut it out the way he did was big for us."

Cleveland's starting backcourt of DeAndre Liggins and Jordan McRae combined to shoot just two of 10 in 34 minutes and neither played in the fourth quarter.

Overall the Cavaliers connected on just 37.8 percent of their shots from

pointers, James Jones made one and Richard Jefferson another.

Lue inserted Jones in the game with 2:32 left in the third when his team trailed 65-61.

He provided a needed spark with his three-pointer, following with a forced turnover and an assist to James at the other end.

Rookie Kay Felder produced 12 points, eight in the fourth quarter, a key contribution as Cleveland erased a 10-point third-quarter deficit to eke out the win.

Lue said he told Felder to be aggressive.

"He might have taken one or two questionable shots, but when you've got it going and you're a scorer, just let him go. I don't want to be a guy (that says), 'Oh, that's a bad shot,' so now he's thinking about it."

LeBron James goes for a layup during the NBA game against the New Orleans Pelicans.

the floor.

James connected on nine of 21 attempts, pulled down seven rebounds and handed out six assists.

But he struggled to get in a groove until the fourth quarter on a night that saw Kyrie Irving out for the second straight game with what the team calls tight-

ness in his right hamstring.

Lue offered no timetable for Irving's return, after initially saying he didn't think the trouble would cost Irving any time.

"Can't have any excuses no matter what's going on with the team," James said. "Has to be next man up and when guys' num-

bers are called they've got to be ready to go. As ugly as it was tonight, just got to find a way to get through it -- and we did that."

The Cavs were stonecold from three-point range, with not a single starter connecting from long distance.

Frye made four three-

- Missed opportunity Anthony Davis scored 20 points with 17 rebounds for the Pelicans. Rookie Buddy Hield added 20 points but New Orleans shot a season-worst 36.4 percent and saw their fourgame winning streak end.

"We lost a little bit of our aggressiveness," New Orleans coach Alvin Gentry said. "When you're playing the NBA champs on the road and you have an opportunity like that, you've got to be able to execute and you've got to be able to seize the moment.

"We just kind of let it slip away."

NZ-Pak: Williamson helps Kiwis to comfortable T20 win

New Zealand captain Kane Williamson bats during the first Twenty20 against Bangladesh in Napier on January 3, 2017 (AFP Photo)

nAPier, JAnuAry 3 (AFP): Kane Williamson belted 73 off 55 balls as New Zealand cruised to a six-wicket win over Bangladesh in the first Twenty20 match in Napier on Tuesday.

New Zealand chased down their 142-run target with two overs to spare as captain Williamson held the innings together with support from Colin de Grandhomme after the first four wickets fell cheaply.

New Zealand were 62 for four when de Grandhomme went to the crease and added 41 off 22 balls in an 81-run stand with Williamson.

It was Williamson's highest Twenty20 innings, one run more than his unbeaten 72 against Pakistan a year ago, while de Grandhomme's previous best was eight against Zimbabwe.

The comfortable win continued New Zealand's domination of Bangladesh after the home side won the three 50-over matches last week.

Bangladesh, looking to turn the tables in the shortest form of the game, opted to bat on a flat wicket after winning the toss but could only manage 141 for eight.

Mahmudullah, who had been out of form in the ODIs, came right with a knock of 52 in the only innings of note, with Mosaddek Hossain adding 20.

New Zealand's total of 18 wides was the third highest contributor.

Mahmudullah kept out a yorker to avoid a hat-trick with the first ball he faced after New Zealand debutant Lockie Ferguson took the wickets of Sabbir Rahman and Soumya Sarkar with his first two deliveries.

Ferguson also bowled Mahmudullah in his last over to finish with three for 32 while fellow debutant Ben Wheeler took 2-22.

Bangladesh felt they were still in the game when top-order big hitters, Neil Broom, Colin Munro, Corey Anderson and Tom Bruce were all removed cheaply.

Broom was out for six when Shakib Al Hasan pulled off a sensational catch as he sprinted around the boundary to take the ball.

He flicked it in the air before momentum took him across the rope and then stepped back onto the field of play to complete the catch.

Mustafizur Rahman, who removed Munro without scoring, was the most economical of the Bangladesh bowlers with 1-21 off his four overs.

Warner in Bradman class, 1st in Indian men's boxing: 2 chief coaches, 2 camps Renshaw maiden century

Australian batsman David Warner hits a rare century before lunch as the third Test against Pakistan starts, January 3, 2016 (AFP Photo)

syDney, JAnuAry 3 (reuters): David Warner's contribution to Australia's first innings in the third test against Pakistan on Tuesday lasted just two hours and 21 minutes but that was more than sufficient time for the opener to do something no batsman had for 40 years.

The 30-year-old's ability to score runs quickly is well documented but no Australian since Donald Bradman in 1930, and no batsman since Pakistan's Majid Khan in 1976, had managed to construct a century in the first session of a test.

In 78 balls and with 17 fours, Warner stamped his authority on a dead rubber match and further disheartened a touring team still reeling from a batting collapse in Melbourne that cost them the second test and the series.

There was no rashness to the innings, however, none of the wild lashes at the ball that have cost him his wicket throughout his career and once led some to question his suitability to play the longest form of the game.

The vicious cuts and crisp drives were from the textbook and he reached the milestone courtesy of three runs to backward point with the help of a misfield.

Warner said he was un-

aware that he was about to join Victor Trumper, Charles Macartney, Bradman and Majid as only the fifth batsman to notch up a ton so early in a test.

On the previous delivery, another misfield had offered a third run but, with lunch just five balls away, he waved away batting partner Matt Renshaw to retain the strike on 97.

"It wasn't nerve-racking. I told the youngster with a couple of minutes to go that we just needed to knuckle down and get through to lunch and be patient," Warner said.

"But obviously as a batsman when the adrenaline is pumping and you know it's (a century) just around the corner you are probably going to have a dib.

"It's an honour and privilege to be amongst the greats of the game. It wasn't something in the back of my mind to go out and score a 100 in a session. It was about going out there with intent and batting positive."

Warner's century was his second in consecutive tests after a 144 in Melbourne last week, when he broke a drought going back to last January against West Indies at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

That Sydney century had taken him 82 balls, a ground record that fell to

his quickfire innings on Tuesday.

"Hopefully, I can keep continuing that great start and positive approach," Warner added.

"We have a few tests in India and then we have the Ashes at home. I'm looking forward to that challenge and I'm just going to keep riding that wave of form." eLDer stAtesMAn Now an elder statesman of the side, Warner was also delighted at the form of his opening partner Matt Renshaw, who he described as looking like "a million dollars" in the middle.

Renshaw came into the side after Australia lost the first two tests against South Africa in November.

The 20-year-old's approach to opening is the chalk to Warner's cheese and it took him 123 more balls to secure his maiden test century in the final session.

Despite some criticism of his strike rate from former players, Renshaw's approach to his batting suits Warner just fine.

"He copped a bit of flak for one of his shots in Melbourne and I think he made a comment about trying to keep up with me," Warner said.

"I think a lot of the guys told him just to play his own game."

new DeLhi, JAnuAry 3 (Pti): For the first time in Indian boxing, the position of chief coach will have two occupants with Dronacharya awardee S R Singh and former sub-junior women's coach Shiv Singh granted charge of two separate camps in Patiala and Aurangabad.

The duo replaces Gurbax Singh Sandhu, who was handed the reins of women's boxing after spending more than two decades as the men's chief coach.

The national camp for male boxers will get underway from January 10 with 47 boxers starting in Patiala under S R Singh while the rest 38 setting up base in Aurangabad under Shiv Singh.

In addition, national youth coach G Manoharan has been made their deputy in a 20-strong coaching staff, two of whom would

be finalised later. Manoharan will be part of the Aurangabad camp.

"We have made these appointments after taking feedback from boxers and coaches. We wanted a large pool of coaches and we also wanted to diversify the national camp. So what will happen is that boxers in these two camps will compete against each other on a regular basis," Boxing Federation of India President Ajay Singh told PTI. While S R Singh has been a regular fixture with both the male and female boxing teams, Shiv Singh has worked primarily at the subjunior level and his selection for the top job has come as a surprise.

As was the buzz for some time, former Commonwealth Games and Asian Championships goldmedallist M Suranjoy Singh has been brought in as an assistant coach. Suranjoy is currently the

chief coach of Indian Navy.

"He has been an outstanding boxer and we hope that he will deliver good results in coaching as well," Singh said.

The rest of the coaching lineup features familiar and proven names such as Jaydev Bisht, C A Kuttappa, and N Ramanand among others. Bisht is being shifted back to the men's camp after being initially picked in the women's boxing staff.

Among the boxers, the likes of Asian champion Shiva Thapa, Commonwealth Games silvermedallist L Devendro Singh will be based in Patiala. Both Shiva and Devendro jumped weight divisions to 60kg and 52kg respectively during the National Championships last month.

"We have picked the national champions and medallists but

have also been lenient with the boxers who missed the Nationals. All those who could provide us written explanations have been added," Singh said.

A prominent name missing from the list of campers is former Asian Games gold-medallist Vikas Krishan Yadav. The boxer has decided to stay put in the USA for training and has taken the BFI's permission.

The BFI said the Olympic quarter-finalist would be allowed in trials for any major event despite not figuring in the national campers' list.

"He (Vikas) is training in US and he says it's going good for him.

If he writes to us that he wants to be in the camp, his name would be included and moreover, he can participate in trials when he wants.

We want the best guys to compete for us," the BFI chief said.

Federer returns in style to beat Evans at Hopman

Perth, JAnuAry 3 (AFP): An emotional Roger Federer made an impressive comeback to tennis on Monday with an easy win over Great Britain’s Dan Evans at the Hopman Cup in Perth.

The Swiss champion, who has been out of action for six months due to injury, helped his country make a clean sweep of the tie against the Brits when he cruised to victory in 61 minutes with scores of 6-3, 6-4.

Teammate Belinda Bencic also beat Heather Watson before the Swiss pair triumphed in the dead mixed doubles rubber.

The men’s singles was Federer’s first match after a half-year break due to knee and back injuries, which saw him slide out of the top 10 for the first time since late 2002.

The 35-year-old, who entered 2017 ranked 16th -- his lowest placing since 2001 -- admitted he felt emotional on his return to the court but said the knee didn't trouble him at all.

“For a first match it was great, because obviously expectations were quite low," he said.

“For three and four weeks now I have stopped thinking of it (the knee). I don’t have any pain.

Wednesday in a muchanticipated match-up.

"I am in a way sad it (the comeback) is over, because I enjoyed it so much, I feel a bit relieved but sad.”

Despite plenty of practice in Dubai in recent weeks, Federer said it was important to test himself in an actual match.

He first hurt his knee after a semi-final loss to Novak Djokovic at the Australian Open in January while filling a bath for his children.

He required minor sur-

gery on a torn meniscus and was then hampered by a back injury which forced him out of the French Open.

The 17-time Grand Slam singles champion then suffered another knee complaint at Wimbledon in his semi-final loss to Milos Raonic, before electing to rest for the remainder of the year.

But there were immediate signs of the Federer class against the 66th-

ranked Evans, as he opened the match with an ace and then reeled off a couple of superb passing shots in the fourth game.

Playing in front of a crowd of 13,684, a record for a tennis match in Perth, Federer delighted the fans when he broke Evans in the sixth game to take control of the first set.

He will face emerging German teenager Alexander Zverev on

- France beats Germany After Federer gave Switzerland the lead, Bencic secured the tie with a threeset win over Watson, 7-5, 3-6, 6-2.

In the Fast Four mixed doubles, Federer and Bencic made quick work of the match, winning, 4-0, 4-1.

Earlier, cagey veteran Richard Gasquet led France to a 2-1 win over Germany.

Gasquet beat rising star Alexander Zverev 7-5, 6-3 in their men’s singles match and then teamed with Kristina Mladenovic to win the deciding mixed doubles rubber.

Germany had earlier taken the lead when Andrea Petkovic benefited from an early arrival in Australia and an unorthodox preparation to put in a quality performance against Mladenovic, winning 6-2, 6-1.

“I normally spend Christmas with the family but I decided it was time to make a sacrifice," said Petkovic.

“I spent Christmas in Melbourne watching Seinfeld and eating burgers, but it has paid off.”

wedneSday 04•01•2017

EntErtainmEnt

Hollywood sign to get Very fond of Katrina, Anushka, says Deepika new security measures A

T

he Hollywood Sign Trust, the nonprofit organisation that oversees maintenance for the landmark here, is looking to improve its security after someone turned the Hollywood sign into “Hollyweed”. The prank took place in the early hours of January 1 when somebody climbed the Santa Monica Mountains and changed the iconic sign to “Hollyweed”.

“The Hollywood Sign surveillance system is constantly evolving but an incident like the one that occurred early Sunday morning shows us where there are opportunities to make improvements,” Chris Baumgart, chairman of the Hollywood Sign Trust, told hollywoodreporter.com.

“The New Year’s prank was no exception and we will be deploying addition-

al technology to tighten up surveillance and thus deter unwanted visitors in the future,” said Baumgart.

“This is more than preventing pranks or trespassing at the sign. Our concern is the safety of the neighbourhood and the trespassers that put themselves at risk because it is extremely unsafe to be on

the sign, let alone traversing the treacherous hillside that is home to those nine famous letters,” he added.

On Sunday, while people were ringing in 2017, an unknown person managed to hang white and black tarps over the “O” letters on the landmark. The individual or individuals respon-

sible committed a trespassing violation, Los Angeles police officer Mike Lopez said. The sign is currently watched over by a security camera system that is monitored by the Los Angeles Police Department. It was first installed in 1994 and updated several times since. source: IANs

ctress Deepika Padukone says she is professionally and personally very fond of Katrina Kaif and Anushka Sharma.

Recently, Anushka and Katrina were asked on a chat show if they ever considered the “Piku” actress a “good friend”. They said “no”, but Deepika had later tweeted that she had “fun” watching the episode.

On Sunday, Deepika was asked by the media if there’s always competition between actresses rather than friendship.

The 30-year-old said: “I wouldn’t say it is a competition.

But sometimes you have a certain feeling for other people and they don’t necessarily feel the same way about you. But that’s okay.”

“I am extremely fond of Katrina and Anushka professionally and personally. I wish them all the best.”

As for the work front, Deepika is gearing up for the release of her first Hollywood venture “xXx: Return of Xander Cage”.

Talking about it, she said: “I

want to be known as a good person and an actor. That is more important to me. But I feel very proud that I get to represent my country.

I am very excited for this action franchise and also very sure that the content of the film will entertain all.”

“There is a lot of action and adventure in the film which we haven’t seen in Indian movies before. I am very excited that we will be presenting the movie here,” she added.

Besides that, Deepika is currently shooting for Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s historical drama “Padmavati” along with Ranveer Singh and Shahid Kapoor.

For the New Year, she hopes for more family time.

“My resolution for the New Year is to spend maximum time with my family. I miss my family a lot.” source: IANs

Kylie shares sneak peek of Gwyneth Paltrow changed lifestyle Furious Mariah Carey to launch “full after father’s cancer diagnosis investigation” after New Year’s Eve gaffe newest kyshadow palette

A

K

ylie Jenner, 19, is kicking the New Year off with a new addition to her Kylie Cosmetics line. The reality TV star created a 12-shade eyeshadow palette inspired by one of her favorite makeup looks from 2016 — her peachy makeup from New York Fashion Week. Resharing the above picture of her peach lip and eye combo makeup artist Ariel Tejada created for her back in the fall, Kylie told fans she would officially be launching a peachthemed Kyshadow Kit on Jan. 12 as part of her permanent Kylie Cosmetics collection. Teasing her fans with the first look of the palette, below, The Royal Peach Palette includes matte and metallic peach shades as well as metallic burgundy, plum and green colors. Of course, if you can’t wait for the palette launch on Jan. 12, you can actually recreate Kylie’s NYFW peach eye makeup with her Kyshadow The Bronze Palette, $42. Using Kylie’s Dirty Peach Lip Kit, $29, on her lips, Ariel matched her soft smokey eye to her lip by blending the Citrine shade across her eyelids and along her upper and lower lash lines. source: Hollywoodlife

C M Y K

ctress Gwyneth Paltrow took a different approach to her own health and well-being when her father Bruce was diagnosed with Cancer.

After changing her own lifestyle, Paltrow realised that she didn’t need to go fanatical with her health, reports people.com “When my father was diagnosed, I started frantically throwing things out. I went through a really fanatical phase of being macrobiotic, and obviously it was motivated by pain. I think that was the hardest and most misguided part was the idea that I had to go all or nothing. But it’s not about that,” she said.

Paltrow says that if others want to improve their own well-being, they don’t need to cut out alcohol, junk food and their other vices completely but just do things in moderation.

“We wanted to create the ultimate little tome that explains the Goop clean lifestyle all in one place.

People think, ‘Ugh, if I do this, I have to throw everything away’, but it’s really just about saying, ‘I am willing to experiment in this area’ and going easy on yourself.”

Paltrow said, “I drink alcohol and eat french fries.

But I’m also motivated to make good changes that are sustainable, even if they’re small, like remembering to drink more water.”

“It can be one thing at a time. I just ordered a new standing desk like a complete nerd because there’s so much research now about how carcinogenic sitting is. But, there are so many chemicals in mascara, so maybe it’s buying a clean formula. Or, maybe it’s removing fragrant laundry products that are full of chemicals,” she added.

T

he pop diva, 47, suffered an on-stage meltdown when technical glitches caused her to botch a lip-synched performance of ‘91 hit Emotions. She told the audience in New York: “I wanted a holiday too, can’t I just have one?” before storming off the stage at the end of her set.

Now the American chart-topper says she source: IANs believes there was “foul

play” involved and vowed to get to the bottom of the botched concert, which also saw her ring in 2017 by singing Auld Lang Syne to revellers in Times Square.

A source close to the star said: “Mariah is fuming and has been left very upset for the past couple of days. She won’t let this go and believes somebody tried to sabotage her. “She is launching her own inves-

Gwen Stefani Becomes When Meghalaya’s CM, Oppn leader The New Face Of Revlon got together to sing a Beatles classic

T

he No Doubt singer, 47, joins fellow musician Ciara, and actresses Olivia Wilde and Halle Berry, by becoming a spokeswoman for the beauty brand. In a statement to People.com Gwen said her decision to partner with Revlon was inspired by her passion for cosmetics.

“Ever since I was a young girl, I have used

makeup as a form of selfexpression,” she explained.

“I am passionate about makeup and how it can showcase your individuality and creativity. Partnering with an iconic beauty brand such as Revlon felt like a natural fit. I am so excited to continue sharing my love of makeup as a Revlon (spokesperson).”

Gwen, whose signa-

ture look combines her platinum blonde hair with bright red lipstick, also spoke to Women’s Wear Daily magazine about her new role, revealing she worked behind makeup counters in stores before finding pop stardom.

“I was a makeup artist when I was in my early twenties at the mall; they never trained me,” Stefani said. “I worked behind the counter there for Borghese, which nobody bought because it was expensive, and Ultima II, which I think is actually owned by Revlon.

“I’d be like, ‘Let me put some makeup on you, let me show you what you could look like. I just remember making people feel so much joy and so inspired and so full of confidence, and that’s what makeup can do.”

Gwen, who met Blake when they were both judges on U.S. TV talent show The Voice, admits her newly-settled love life fitted well with Revlon’s current ‘Choose Love’ marketing campaign.

“It’s full of choice and positivity and dreams and truth and I feel like that’s aligning exactly with where I’m at in my personal life in the last couple of years and how I’ve had to kind of choose love, choose truth, choose to be positive and work my way back to a place of using my gift and sharing my love with people,” the Hollaback Girl singer added. source: Contactmusic

W

hat happens when the ruling party and the opposition comes together in one venue? If the previous winter session is anything to go by - chaos and, on the best of days, grudging debate. Political theatrics is so marked by acrimony that every fleeting sign of harmony is held up as glorious exceptions and one such case unfolded in Meghalaya to the soundtrack of The Beatles.

Bizarre though it may sound, Meghalaya’s chief minister Mukul Sangma, leader of the legislative assembly’s opposition Donkupar Roy and working president of the United Democratic Party Paul Lyngdoh got together onstage to sing a Beatles classic ‘All My Loving’. There’s videographic proof of this and naturally, it went viral on social media. The twominute long video shows

tigation into the incident.”

On Sunday Mariah accused Dick Clark Productions, who were responsible for the New Year’s show, of sabotage - a claim they rubbished as “silly.”

The Without You singer, who split from Australian billionaire James Packer, 49, in November, recently launched her own reality telly series Mariah’s World. source: The sun

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

DANGAl

(10:00 AM) (01:05 PM) (04:15 PM) (07:25 PM) the politicians grooving on stage, complete with accompaniment and strobe lighting.

The video has been viewed 138,000 times and shared nearly 3,000 times on Facebook since it was posted on Monday morning. Comments from Face-

book users ranged from pride in Shillong’s music culture to earnest hope for more such ‘cool ministers’ in such ‘depressing times’.

One of the more enthusiastic performers (note the one on the extreme left), identified as cabinet minister Prestone Tynsong, was a

clear crowd favourite.

This is not the first time that Meghalaya’s chief minister has been in the news for his musical skills. In a video uploaded on Youtube in 2012, he is singing another anthemic song ‘I want to break free’ by Queen. (source: Hindustan Times)

Vin Diesel to visit India, confirms Deepika Padukone

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ollywood star Vin Diesel will visit India later this month to promote the forthcoming film “xXx: Return of Xander Cage”. Indian actress Deepika Padukone, who features in a key role in the movie, confirmed his visit with a tweet in Hindi. In the tweet, Deepika said: “Vin, India is waiting for you with bated breath. Will meet you soon on January 12 and January 13. Lots of love from us.”

The movie, a new installment in the “xXX” series after the 2002 film “xXx” and the 2005 entertainer “xXx: State of the Union”, is releasing in India on January 4, before anywhere else in the world. The movie marks Deepika’s foray into Hollywood, and given that the trailer features a lot of her, the actress’ fans are looking forward to the movie even more. Deepika is currently on a tour with the film’s team and her first stop was Mexico.

“Vin will be coming with Deepika to India, and a couple of other people associated with the movie might come too,” a source in the know of desource: IANs velopments, told IANS.

11:00 am | 02:00 PM 05:00 pm | 08:00 PM

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wednesdAY 04•01•2017

SPORTS

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

CAYSA Sports Meet from today

Youngsters perform at the pre-opening ceremony at Chetheba Town.

Chetheba, January 3 (Mexn): The 48th Games and Sports-cumCultural Meet of Chokri Area Youth Sports Association (CAYSA) will get underway on Wednesday, with Chotisuh Sazo, Speak-

er, Nagaland Legislative Assembly as the chief guest at the inaugural function.

Altogether 652 players from different villages of Chokri Area are participating in the meet which concludes on January 11.

On Tuesday evening, a pre-opening ceremony organized by Chetheba Town Students Union was held at the Chetheba Local Ground with music and colour to spread the joy of hosting the sports meet.

Winter Cricket Challenge: Sarmah helps GAPYOCC win

C M Y K

woKha, January 3 (Mexn): Wicket keeper Ganesh Sarmah with 38 runs, 2 catches and a stumping helped GAPYOCC (Green) defeat Royal Strikers by 28 runs in the second semi-final league match of the ongoing 21st edition of the Winter Cricket Challenge played at Local Ground, Wokha.

GAPYOCC (Green) electing to bat first managed 153 runs with the 10th wicket falling in the 20th over. Sarmah was assisted by Bivakar (32 runs) and Debojit (29).

Sajid was the pick of the Royal Strikers’ bowlers taking a haul of 4 wickets while

Roshan claimed 2 wickets.

In the run chase, Royal Strikers were also bowled out in the 20th over for just 124 runs – 29 runs short of the target. Montu (28), Mhabemo (23) and Jubin (19) were the run getters for Royal Strikers. Dipankar led the bowling attack of GA (Green) with 3 wickets while Bivakar and Albert claimed 2 wickets each. Ganesh Sarmah was adjudged the Man of the Match.

Wednesday’s Match: Renegades CC vs Royal Strikers (3rd Semi Final League)

Chelsea fans face jail terms for racist violence PariS, January 3 (aFP): Four Chelsea football fans, including an ex-policeman, battled charges of racist violence in a Paris court on Tuesday for which they could face prison terms.

In the Paris metro, the four were among Chelsea fans who chanted "we are racist, we are racist and that's the way we like it" as they pushed back a black man trying to board the train.

In court, the fans denied their acts were racist in nature.

Joshua Parsons, 22, a former pupil

of the elite Millfield school in England, now working in the building trade, and James Fairbairn, 25, a civil engineer, were the only two among the four to appear in court.

Richard Barklie, a 52-year-old former policeman, and William Simpson, 27, were tried in absentia.

Parsons, Fairbairn and Barklie have already been banned from football stadiums in Britain.

In France, they face a jail term of up to seven years and a 100,000-euro fine.

Defoe punishes Liverpool, Man United sink Hammers London, January 3 (aFP): Jermain Defoe scored two penalties as third-bottom Sunderland prevented Liverpool from significantly trimming Chelsea's lead at the Premier League summit in a 2-2 draw on Monday.

Liverpool twice went ahead, through Daniel Sturridge and Sadio Mane, but Defoe's two spot-kicks mean Chelsea will move eight points clear if they win at Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday.

"I am not able to explain it because I don't know exactly what I saw," said Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp. "My team were fighting, but I wasn't sure if they could do it."

Manchester City lost ground after losing 1-0 at Liverpool on New Year's Eve, but they bounced back by winning 2-1 at home to Burnley despite the firsthalf dismissal of Fernandinho.

Liverpool, who were denied a fifth successive league win, were left five points adrift of Chelsea in second place, with City two points back in third.

Manchester United rose to within a point of the top four after goals by Juan Mata and Zlatan Ibrahimovic secured a contentious 2-0 win at 10-man West Ham United.

Klopp made just one change to his starting XI, Sturridge replacing the injured Jordan Henderson, and the England striker gave his side a 19th-minute lead at the Stadium of Light.

Dejan Lovren miscued his volley from a corner, but Sturridge reacted sharply to swivel and redirect the ball past Sunderland goalkeeper Vito Mannone with his head.

Defoe equalised six

Sunderland's striker Jermain Defoe (L) beats Liverpool's goalkeeper Simon Mignolet from the penalty spot as Sunderland make it 1-1 during the English Premier League football match on January 2, 2017 (AFP Photo)

minutes later, netting his 10th league goal of the season from the penalty spot after Didier N'Dong was fouled by Ragnar Klavan.

Mane restored Liverpool's lead in the 72nd minute, tapping in from a corner, but then conceded a penalty for a needless handball, allowing Defoe to equalise for the second time with six minutes to play.

"You need a little bit of luck, but Sunderland worked hard too and maybe they deserved it," Klopp added.

Compounding Liverpool's disappointment, Sturridge limped off late on and had to be helped to the tunnel at the full-time whistle.

Manchester United were given an early advantage at West Ham when Sofiane Feghouli was harshly sent off by referee Mike Dean in the 15th minute after a 50-50 with Phil Jones.

West Ham goalkeeper

Darren Randolph produced a stunning save to claw Antonio Valencia's shot off the line in the 36th minute, with Jesse Lingard's follow-up hitting the post.

- Tetchy Guardiola United manager Jose Mourinho sent on Mata and Marcus Rashford in the second half and they combined for the visitors' 63rdminute opener, Rashford teeing up Mata to sweep home.

Ibrahimovic smashed in his 18th United goal, despite being in an offside position, to seal a sixth straight league victory.

West Ham manager Slaven Bilic said Feghouli's dismissal was "never a red card" and United's goal was "a big offside".

But Mourinho said: "I don't feel sorry for West Ham. I didn't watch the decisions. I think if you talk about decisions, we are the champions of bad decisions."

Arriving at end of my Spurs major obstacle to record bid, says Chelsea's Conte January 3 a row is not easy. We are are better than last season. ery coach wishes for as coaching career: Guardiola London, They have a good manager he mulls over whether to (aFP): Spurs represent a pleased for this.

ManCheSter, January 3 (reuterS): Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has said he is approaching the end of his coaching career and the process of bidding goodbye has already started.

The 45-year-old manager, who replaced Manuel Pellegrini at the start of the season, believes his current stint at City could be one of his last managerial assignments.

"I will be at Manchester for the next three seasons, maybe more," Guardiola told NBC. "I will not be on the bench until I am 60 or 65 years old. I feel the process of my goodbye has already started."

Guardiola racked up three La Liga trophies and two Champions League

wins in four years at Barcelona before moving to Bayern Munich in 2013 where he claimed three consecutive Bundesliga crowns.

"I am arriving at the end of my coaching career, of this I am sure," he added.

The Spaniard has struggled to make an instant impact at City, who are currently third in the table and trail leaders Chelsea by seven points in the Premier League.

significant hurdle to overcome if Chelsea are to equal Arsenal's Premier League record of 14 successive wins, said Blues manager Antonio Conte on Tuesday.

The 47-year-old Italian -- who took over after he had guided Italy to the Euro 2016 quarter-finals -- has steered Chelsea to 13 consecutive victories and a five point lead over Liverpool at the top of the table.

Victory over fifthplaced Spurs on Wednesday would emulate Arsenal's record set over two seasons -- winning the last 13 matches of the 2001/02 season and their first game of the following campaign.

"It is a great achievement for us," said Conte of their record-equalling 13th successive win in a single season.

"To win 13 games in

"Tomorrow (Wednesday), we know that we have a tough game against Tottenham. It is a good team.

For this reason we need to continue our run!"

Conte, who made his name as a manager at Juventus a club he also served with distinction as a player, admitted going on their previous clash earlier in the season Spurs would be tough opposition.

"Against Tottenham (previously when Chelsea came from 1-0 down to win 2-1) was a tough game," said Conte, who coached Juventus to three Serie A crowns.

"I watched it again. In the first half they played well and put us under a lot of pressure.

"In the second half we played very well but Tottenham showed great form.

"For me, Tottenham

who is working very well."

- 'The league is open' Conte, an industrious midfielder who won 20 caps and was a member of the squads that reached the 1994 World Cup and Euro 2000 finals, said as far as he was concerned the Spurs match represented the start of the second-half of the season with nothing won yet.

"This type of game gives you motivation," he said.

"Now I think every team want to stop our run, not just Tottenham.

"If you see the table, we have only five points more than second place from Liverpool and seven points from Manchester City.

"The league is open. This is only the first game of the second part of the season."

Conte faces the type of selection dilemma ev-

restore Pedro Rodriguez to the starting XI after he served a one match suspension.

"I like to have my players in good form and then to make the best choice for the game," said Conte.

"It is a good problem.

Now, we have Pedro, Willian, (Eden) Hazard and (Diego) Costa in good form and in good shape.

Conte, who said there were discussions going on about perhaps strengthening the squad in the January transfer window, said Costa had flourished since he decided to stay and not seek a transfer last summer.

"When Diego decided to stay, he said he wanted to fight for this club and for his shirt," said Conte.

"I wasn't concerned. He is showing great patience in the right way, in every moment of the game."

Manchester City lost Fernandinho to a straight red card in the 32nd minute against Burnley for flying in on Johann Berg Gudmundsson with both feet off the ground.

It was the Brazil midfielder's third red card in six games and will earn him a four-game ban.

City manager Pep Guardiola turned to his bench at half-time, sending on Sergio Aguero and David Silva, and within 17 minutes of kick-off in the second half City were 2-0 up.

Left-back Gael Clichy broke the deadlock in the 58th minute, curling home with his weaker right foot, and four minutes later Aguero slammed home from a tight angle.

A blunder by Claudio Bravo allowed Ben Mee to reduce the arrears following a goalmouth scramble, but City held on to climb back into the Champions League places.

"We won against a lot of circumstances in a tough game so we're happy for that," Guardiola said in a tetchy BBC interview.

Asked for his thoughts on Fernandinho's dismissal, he replied: "Ask the referee."

Substitute Enner Valencia, Leighton Baines and Romelu Lukaku scored in the last 17 minutes as seventh-place Everton overcame Southampton 3-0 at Goodison Park.

West Bromwich Albion remain a point below Everton in eighth after coming from behind to win 3-1 at home to second-bottom Hull City through goals from Chris Brunt, Gareth McAuley and James Morrison.

Champions Leicester City have now gone 12 league games without an away win following a drab 0-0 draw at Middlesbrough that left them six points above the relegation zone in 14th place.

Clement appointed Swansea manager London, January 3 (reuterS): Swansea City, bottom of the Premier League, have appointed Paul Clement as manager on a two-and-a-half-year contract in succession to Bob Bradley, the club said on Tuesday.

Clement, 44, has been assistant manager at Bayern Munich to Carlo Ancelotti, with whom he also worked at Chelsea, Paris St Germain and Real Madrid.

In his only managerial job, however, he lasted less than a year at Championship (second tier) Derby County, who sacked him last February.

Swansea were reported to have interviewed him before appointing Bradley in October. The American was dismissed just before Christmas, having won only two of his 11 games since taking over from Francesco Guidolin.

Swansea have struggled all season after selling leading scorer Andre Ayew to West Ham United and captain Ashley Williams to Everton. Saturday's 3-0 home defeat

by Bournemouth was their fourth successive loss, leaving them bottom of the table and four points from safety.

Clement will attend Tuesday's match at Crystal Palace, who are three places above them.

Draxler signs for PSG

Too early to take my name as next BCCI prez: Ganguly

KoLKata, January 3 (ianS): Former India captain Sourav Ganguly on Tuesday calmed talk about him taking over as the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) President, saying "it's too early" to draw any such conclusions.

"It's better not to take my name. There is no reason to take my name. It's too early," Ganguly told reporters a day after the Supreme Court, in a historic verdict, sacked board President Anurag Thakur and Secretary Ajay Shirke for not implementing the July 18 recommendations of the Justice R.M. Lodha Committee.

The bench comprising Chief Justice T.S. Thakur, Justice A.M. Khanwilkar and Justice D.Y. Chandrachud also said that all the office-bearers of the BCCI and its affiliate state units, who are in conflict with the recommendation of the Lodha Com-

the position. The recommendations have put a cap of three years for one post," Ganguly said.

The CAB is expected to see an exodus of incumbent officebearers who do not meet the new deLhi, January 3 (ianS): The Supreme Court Lodha panel recommendations.

Asked about the replace- on Tuesday appointed senior ments and whether he has them counsel Anil Divan in place of in mind, Ganguly replied in the Fali Nariman for recommending names of the administraaffirmative.

"I have called for a meeting tors to oversee and supervise of all office-bearers tomorrow the functioning of the Indian at 5 p.m. We will find a way out. cricket board.

A bench of Chief Justice T.S. It's not that there are no reThakur, Justice A. Khanwilkar placements. Again, we all have and Justice D.Y. Chandrachud to implement it, there's no way named Divan after Nariman reout."

The bench also said those cused himself.

The court on Monday asked qualified under the new guideamicus curiae Gopal Subramalines could stay on, provided they gave an undertaking to car- nium and Nariman to suggest ry out reforms intended to make in two weeks from people with the BCCI more transparent.

The court said it would choose with "integrity and experience in the administrators for the BCCI managing a similar enterprise"

Anil Divan replaces Nariman to suggest BCCI administrators

mittee, would demit office.

Ganguly, who is currently the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) President said nobody has got any choice but to implement the Lodha Committee recommendations in toto.

"We have got no choice. Nobody has a choice but to implement them," said Ganguly, who took over the top post of the CAB after predecessor Jagmohan Dalmiya's demise in 2015.

"I still have two more years in

the names to supervise the administration of the Board of Control for Cricket in India through its Chief Executive Officer.

The court had given them two weeks to suggest the names of persons with "integrity and experience in managing a similar enterprise".

The apex court also clarified that cricket administrators will be allowed to hold office for a cumulative period of nine years. This includes the time they hold office in their respective state association as well as the BCCI.

PariS, January 3 (aFP): German international Julian Draxler has joined Paris Saint-Germain from Wolfsburg on a four-year deal, the French club said Tuesday.

The 23-year-old attacking midfielder has signed a contract for a reported 36 to 40 million euros ($37.5 million - $42 million) that will keep him at the top French club until the end of June 2021.

Draxler, part of Germany's 2014 World Cup-winning side, said he was proud to join the current French champions, ending an acrimonious spell at his German club.

"I will be discovering a new country, a new championship and am very proud to embark on this new stage as part of a club that has become a reference in Europe and has recruited many very great players in recent years," Draxler said in a club statement.

Draxler was unsettled at his German club and ruffled suggested by senior advocates feathers last year when he announced publicly that he Anil Divan and amicus curiae wanted to leave Wolfsburg, prompting coach Valerien IsGopal Subramanium. mael to say the player was causing 'confusion' in the team.

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