June 5th, 2017

C M Y K

www.morungexpress.com

MonDAY • June 05 • 2017

DIMAPUR • Vol. XII • Issue 152• 12 PAGes • 5

T H e

ESTD. 2005

P o W e R

Persistence. Perfection. Patience. Power. Prioritize your passion. It keeps you sane India’s heaviest rocket with GSAT-19 all set for maiden flight PAGe 08

reflections

By Sandemo Ngullie

Yeeeeth, shared sovereignty is better than no sovereignty. Beside i like indian currency.

The Morung Express Poll QuEsTion

Vote on www.morungexpress.com sMs your answer to 9862574165 Unlike other NE states that stand up to the Centre, Nagaland govt is unable to take a firm stand due of overdependence on Delhi? Why?

Yes no others Do you believe that formation of new political parties offer potential for positive social change in Nagaland? Why? Yes 17% no

others

71% 12%

Details on page 7

More load shedding in five districts DIMAPUR, JUNE 4 (MExN): Due to the shutdown of 220/132KV Power Grid Sub-station at Mokokchung for maintenance from June 1, power allocated to Mokokchung Load Centre at Aolichen has been constraint. As such, the five Districts of Mokokchung, Tuensang, Mon, Zunheboto and Longleng under Mokokchung Transmission Division may experience more load shedding hours than usual. This was informed in a press note from the Assistant Engineer, Mokokchung Sub Transmission Division. It was further notified that shutdown of the Power Grid sub-station may go on till June 12.

Therefore, the department has requested all affected consumers to bear with the inconvenience till normal power supply is restored.

T R u T H

— Criss Jami

Real Madrid claim 12th European title

Various activities to mark World Environment Day today PAGe 02

PAGe 12

seven killed as terror strikes london

LONDON, JUNE 4 (REUTERS): Three attackers drove a van into pedestrians on London Bridge on before stabbing revellers nearby on Saturday night (London Time), killing at least seven people in what Britain said was the work of Islamist militants engaged in a “new trend” of terrorism.

At least 48 people were injured in the attack, the third to hit Britain in less than three months and occurring days ahead of a snap parliamentary election on Thursday.

Police shot dead the three male assailants in the Borough Market area near the bridge within eight minutes of receiving the first emergency call shortly after 10 p.m. local time.

“We believe we are experiencing a new trend in the threat we face as terrorism breeds terrorism,” Prime Minister Theresa May said in a televised statement on Sunday in front of her Downing Street office, where flags flew at half-mast.

“Perpetrators are inspired to attack not only on the basis of carefully constructed plots ... and not even as lone attackers radicalised online, but by copying one another and often using the crudest of means

of attack.”

She said the series of attacks represented a perversion of Islam and that Britain’s counter-terrorism strategy needed to be reviewed, adding: “It is time to say enough is enough.”

Most of the main political parties suspended national campaigning on Sunday, but May said campaigning would resume on Monday and that the election would go ahead as planned.

London Bridge is a major transport hub and nearby Borough Market is a fashionable warren of alleyways packed with bars and restaurants that is always bustling on a Saturday night.

The area remained cordoned off and patrolled by armed police and counter-terrorism officers on Sunday, with train stations closed. Forensic investigators could be seen working on the bridge, where buses and taxis stood abandoned.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the latest attack to hit Britain and Europe.

Less than two weeks ago, an Islamist suicide bomber killed 22 people including children at a concert by U.S. singer Ariana Grande in Manchester in northern England. In

SE Asian nations step up co-op as Islamic State threat mounts

Armed police officers walk outside Borough Market after an attack left 6 people dead and dozens injured in london, Britain, June 4. (REUTERS)

March, in a attack similar to Saturday’s, a man killed five people after driving into pedestrians on Westminster Bridge in central London.

Grande and other acts were due to give a benefit concert at Manchester’s Old Trafford cricket ground on Sunday evening to raise funds for victims of the concert bombing and

their families. Police said the event would go ahead as planned, but security would be increased.

The three attackers on Saturday night were wearing what looked like explosive vests that were later found to have been fake.

May said the assailants’ aim had been to sow panic.

The BBC showed a photograph of two possible at-

tackers shot by police, one of whom had canisters strapped to his body.

Home Secretary (interior minister) Amber Rudd said it did not appear that there was a link between the attackers and the Manchester bombing.

Islamist militants have carried out attacks in Berlin, Nice, Brussels and Paris over the past two years.

SINGAPORE, JUNE 4 (REUTERS): Southeast Asian nations plan to use spy planes and drones to stem the movement of militants across their porous borders, defence officials said at the weekend, as concerns rise over the growing clout of Islamic State in the region.

Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines said they will launch joint air patrols this month at their shared boundaries in the Sulu Sea, in addition to existing maritime patrols. Authorities in the region have urged greater cooperation to counter the fallout from a raging battle with Islamic State-linked militants in the southern Philippines, the biggest warning yet that the ultra-radical group is building a base in Southeast Asia.

“Our open borders are being exploited by terrorist groups to facilitate personnel and material,” Le Luong Minh, SecretaryGeneral of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) told the ShangriLa Dialogue, an annual regional security forum in Singapore.

The region is home to

600 million people and includes Indonesia, which has the world’s highest number of Muslims. Authorities in both Indonesia and Malaysia, also Muslimmajority, have said thousands of their citizens are sympathisers of Islamic State and hundreds are believed to have travelled to Syria to join the extremist group. Indonesian authorities blamed Islamic State for bombings last month that killed three police officers, the latest in a series of lowlevel attacks by the militants in the last 17 months.

In recent months, dozens of fighters from Indonesia and Malaysia have crossed from their countries to Mindanao in the southern Philippines, intelligence officials have said, easily passing through waters that have often been lawless and plagued by pirates. Mindanao is the one region in the largely Catholic Philippines to have a significant Muslim minority.

ASEAN made a joint pledge with the United States on the sidelines of the Shangri-La forum to help the Philippines overcome the militant assault in the city of Marawi.

Now, Aadhaar made mandatory nagaland BJP crisis: PAc seeks for pension, kerosene subsidy intervention from central leaders Deadline for enrolment for pensioners fixed as September 30

ting the Aadhaar is June 15, they said, quoting an official order.

However, till an Aadhaar card is obtained, ration card, driving licence, voter identity card, Kisan passbook with photo, job card issued under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) and a certificate issued by a gazetted officer or a tehsildar will be considered as proof of identity for the benefits.

It has been also decided to link the Aadhaar number with the ration card issued to households availing the benefits or with the bank account for cash transfer benefit.

The Ministry of Oil and Natural Gas has introduced Direct Benefit Transfer through which subsidy is transferred directly to the

NEw DELhI, JUNE 4 (PTI): The Aadhaar card has now been made mandatory for government subsidy on purchase of kerosene and benefits of Atal Pension Yojana.

Those availing kerosene subsidy or contributing for the pension scheme will now be required to furnish proof of possession of Aadhaar number or undergo the enrolment process to get the benefits, officials said today. The last date to get the Aadhaar or enrolment for getting it will be September 30, in case of DIMAPUR, JUNE 4 Kerosene subsidy.

(MExN): A group of reFor the Atal Pension Yogional leaders from Mo- jana, the deadline for getkokchung District held a meeting on May 28 and decided to join the newly formed Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) en bloc “to uphold the relevance of regionalism and appeals of nationalism.” A press note from the Sessional Chair- DIMAPUR, JUNE 4 (MExN): man, Imtiyanger and Ses- While lauding the efforts made sional Secretary, Mayang- by the Nagaland State Health nungba informed that the Department for tying up with members dwelt on the pre- the World Bank and formulatvailing political scenario of ing the Nagaland Health Projthe state vis-a-vis the Indo- ect (NHP), the Access to Rights Naga Political dialogue and and Knowledge (ARK) foundarecognized the “yearning of tion has urged the project initiathe people for a new plat- tives to also explore possibilities form, a responsible dispen- on working on prevention and sation to steer the helm of treatment for Hepatitis C in the affairs of the state, condu- state. cive atmosphere for peace The ARK foundation reand progress, inclusive policy on development minded that as has been earlier and equal representation.” reported, in Nagaland Hepatitis Those who attended the C has emerged as a huge matmeeting included repre- ter of concern as per some scisentatives from 21 TuliA/C, entific research, where districts 22 ArkakongA/C, 23 like Phek and Wokha projected ImpurA/C, 24 Angetyong- a worrisome prevalence rate pang A/C, Mongkoya A/C, of 8.7 and 20.8 % respectively, 26 Aonglenden A/C, 27 while some independent survey Mokokchung Town A/C, reports conducted among Injec28 Koridang A/C, 29 Jang- tion drug users (IDUs) showed petkong A/Cand 30 Aoong- a much more higher prevalence taki A/C. rate.

DPP gains ground in Mkg

o F

bank accounts of the beneficiaries, who purchase the PDS kerosene at nonsubsidised rate.

The decision to make Aadhaar mandatory for these two schemes will prevent leakages of subsidies and ensure that the beneficiaries get their due.

For this, the central government has invoked Section 7 of the Aadhaar Act, 2016, which mandates that when the government gives subsidy, benefit or service from the Consolidated Fund of India (CFI), an individual can be asked to undergo authentication or furnish proof of possession of Aadhaar.

The Centre allocates subsidised kerosene to the states and Union Territories as affordable cooking fuel for domestic use, mainly to those living below the poverty line.

DIMAPUR, JUNE 4 (MExN): An emergency meeting of the Political Affairs Committee (PAC) of the BJP Nagaland was held on June 3 at Kohima to take stock of the latest political development/crisis within the Nagaland Unit BJP and also the emerging political development in the State.

A press note from the Convener, PAC, BJP Nagaland informed that the meeting resolved to ask for intervention from the central party leaders. This was done in view of the present party crisis wherein 10 of the 11 District Presidents have written to the High Command to remove the party President and warned of further action in case of non-compliance.

“Now that the District Presidents and Youth Party Leaders have come togeth-

er and they are on a Dharna for removal of the Party President. In view of such a serious development in the Party and looking at the forthcoming General Election which is coming very soon, it is felt that Central Party Leaders intervention is immediately required.

Hence the Central Party Leaders are requested to immediately come and settle the issue and save the party,” the PAC stated.

Regarding the dropping of 9 senior party functionaries without any consultation with the State Office Bearers and the Party Legislators, the meeting termed this “unconstitutional and dictatorial in nature.” This issue, it informed was discussed in the last meeting of the PAC on May 25, wherein the President was asked to review the de-

cision and reinstate them to their original positions “because they are all senior dedicated party workers.”

“But till today the President has not complied with the recommendations of the PAC. Therefore, once again the PAC recommends that all the 9 senior party functionaries should be reinstated with immediate effect,” it said.

Further, with reference to the recent suspension of 3 party members, the PAC recommended that the suspension order should be immediately revoked “for the best interest of the party because their participation and contribution in the party is indispensable in view of the forthcoming General Election.”

The PAC meeting also deliberated on the BJP Nagaland President’s or-

der for shifting of the Party Head Office from Dimapur to Kohima “without any prior consultations in the State Executive Committee Meeting and without any consultations with the party legislators.” This order, the PAC said should be kept in abeyance for the best interest of the party.

It meanwhile recommended that henceforth, there should be proper consultations and coordination within the party functionaries and the party legislators, and that no major decision such as shifting of Party Head Office from Dimapur to Kohima or any major decision should not be taken without proper discussions and consultations with the State Executive Committee Meeting and without proper consultation with the party legislators.

ArK foundation urges nHP to focus on Hepatitis c Gov urges all to build Informs on testing services and treatment price in the state

C M Y K

“It is not only a matter of concern for the risk populations such as the IDUs and hemophilic group of people but also has shown high prevalence rate at the general society,” it stated.

The ARK foundation viewed that challenges lay ahead in terms of a state level data, since no surveillance has been conducted across the country neither for the state per se. This, it said deters program planning and opens very little space for program implementation.

The foundation requested the NHP to make a breakthrough in terms of this, with their technical expertise and existing human and financial resources and start formulating some plans. “Unless there is a start, new infection will happen rampantly and those already infected will continue to die” it warned.

In terms of treatment, the

foundation also informed that better, friendlier and more treatment responsive drugs are available in the form of Directly Acting Antivirals (DAAs). “This drug in combination with Sofosbuvir as the backbone regime has shown cure rate of more than 95 percent and that the price is far low as compared to the earlier standard of treatment with Pegylated Interferon. With these new oral Antivirals, people requiring treatment will require lesser treatment duration of ideally 3 months, lesser side effects, cheaper price yet these generic drugs also response better in eliminating the Hepatitis C virus,” it informed.

In this regard, ARK foundation requested the Health Department/NHP to expedite these options and initiate Hepatitis C Prevention and treatment program.

Further, the foundation in-

formed that some pharmaceutical companies are providing free antibody test with nominal charges for Viral Load and Genotyping Test particularly in Kohima and Dimapur District. Along with this test and diagnosis programs, cost for the treatment drugs are also being provided at a price of Rs 8,500/ month which sums up to Rs 25,500/- for three months course of either Sofosbuvir/ Daclatasvir or Sofosbuvir/Ledipasvir.

“Though another DAA called Velpatasvir, which has the property of being pangenotypic, is very recently hitting the market, prices are still costlier comparatively,” the ARK foundation informed and, in this regard, informed all those requiring treatment to be aware of these provisions available and advised them not to pay more then what has been mentioned.

a ‘better tomorrow’

DIMAPUR, JUNE 4 (MExN): Nagaland State Governor, PB Acharya while extending greetings to the people of the State on the occasion of World Environment Day, hoped that the occasion will give thrust to the commitment towards preservation and protection of the environment.

In a message through his PRO, the Governor stated that people of Nagaland State have been living in harmony with nature since “time immemorial.” Unfortunately, hasty and unrestrained industrialization, urbanisation and increased human intervention have resulted into degradation of environment, which in turn affect the climate conditions and cause global warming, he said.

He meanwhile termed it heartening to note that the State and its people, over the years are showing concern for environ-

mental protection and preservation he said.

The Governor appealed to all government departments and agencies, educational institutions, nature lovers, industrialists, corporate leaders, traders and NGOs to come forward for protecting the environment for a better tomorrow and for the future generations.

World Environment Day is observed every year to raise global awareness for protection of the planet and also to take positive environmental actions.

World Environment Day has developed into a global platform for public outreach with participation from over 143 countries annually including India. First held in the year 1974, it has been a flagship campaign for raising awareness on emerging environment issues and this year the theme of the celebration is ‘Connecting People to Nature.’

2

Monday 05•06•2017

NAGALAND

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

ANGPTA affirms to fight for Various activities to mark welfare of Primary Teachers World Environment Day today

Kohima, June 4 (mexn): The All Nagaland Government Primary Teachers’ Association (ANGPTA) has resolved to take stern action against any individual/ group/ association that tries to manipulate the welfare of the Primary Teachers, according to a press release from Media Cell, ANGPTA. Maintaining that some persons/members of some organization are “campaigning with false propaganda to create unharmonious atmosphere for their selfish interest,” the association requested to immediately stop such “unethical practices”.

It further requested its members to keep vigil and be aware that the department or government cannot deprive any ROP (revision of pay) to its employees for becoming a member of its fold. The ANGPTA termed “such propa-

ganda as false, illegal and ridiculous.”

These were brought out during an emergency meeting of ANGPTA office bearers at its headquarter Kohima on June 2. The meeting discussed various pertinent issues related to Primary Teachers irrespective of qualification and nature of appointment, it was informed. The association regretted that the Primary Teachers, “who are the foundation and builders of the students' career, had been neglected and deprived of its avenues from the department, its own teacher association for the past many years.”

The association which came into being recently, the release said, is pursuing with the education department and government for the general interest of the Primary Teachers. “The ratio of Primary Teachers in the department is more

than 60%, which is the backbone of the department and should not be discriminated. The association is firm to fight tooth and nail if its members are deprived in the near future,” it asserted.

ANGPTA also resolved to cooperate with the department concerned and government to implement the various policies and programs for the students' community in particular and teachers generally.

Meanwhile, it appealed to the department and government to take its representations “which are only a reminder of self order and notification which are yet to be implemented in letter and spirit.”

With regard to proxy teachers’ issue, ANGPTA in the meeting termed it as illegal and unethical.

“Such practice hampers in running daily schedule of schools and later it will

spoil the students' career as well as their future,” it maintained. The association viewed the matter seriously and appealed to the department to take necessary remedies to curb the absence of teachers.

“When department has the power to tackle such problem, why has it failed to contain such menace for so many years,” it questioned. Affirming that ANGPTA does not subscribe or encourage such unethical practices, it appealed to its members to dedicate their services for the uplift of the student community.

The association further appealed to the School Management Committee to carry its role diligently for the welfare of the schools. Various organizations/individuals were also urged to cooperate with the teaching community in delivering their assigned duties peacefully.

Project model competition in Wokha

WoKha, June 4 (mexn): In commemoration of World Environment Day, Tsumang 'A' Youth Organisation (TAYO) in collaboration with Tsumang Colony Council is organizing inter high school project model competition on the topic ‘Beautification of Tsumang Lake’ on June 5, 10:00 am at Town Hall, Wokha.

Dr. TM Lotha, Advisor, Treasuries & Accounts, Labour & Employment, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship will grace the event as the guest speaker.

Students studying in classes 8, 9, and10 are eligible to participate in the competition which aims to raise environmental awareness (about waste disposal, sanitation and hazards of improper methods of waste disposal) and preserve the natural beauty. The project model should be in the size of 1 ½ ft in length and 2 ½ ft in breadth, informed TAYO in a press release.

Teams of two or three students from all high schools in Wokha have been invited to participate in the contest.

According to the youth organi-

zation, the initiative aims to spread awareness and inspire youth about local health and environmental issues in their communities so that they can actively participate and work to bring out positive changes.

“We look to inspire youth leadership working towards a sustainable and healthy future,” it added.

Stating that the projects should be practical and show impact on the community, the organization encouraged original thoughts and actions on how to make the community more sustainable.

The participants are expected to explain how they put their ideas into action, what their goal is, what changes their team made, and what potential obstacles they had to overcome.

Proof of the project model should include a second write up (about the project) and a brief description, it said.

The top three winning teams will receive following cash awards along with certificates: First Prize – Rs. 7000; Second Prize – Rs. 5000; Third Prize – Rs. 3000.

It was informed that names of all the winning students and schools will be published in a local newspaper,

and the best project will be put into implementation.

The panel of judges for the contest comprise of TAYO president, TACC vice chairman, DPO Wokha, and Natural Nagas.

Kohima Law College Kohima Law College will observe World Environment Day with the theme - 'Connecting People to Nature' on June 5 at its college premises. The Professor-in-Charge for Students' Welfare, Kezhokhoto Savi will present the keynote address, while students will do several presentations on how to promote and protect the environment.

Cleanliness drive in Dimapur In Dimapur, seven youth organisations, namely Kashiram Youth Organisation, Ao Yimküm Youth Organisation, Kacharigaon Phevima Youth Organisation, Senjum Village Youth Organisation, Indisen Youth Organisation, Rilan Youth Organisation, and Industrial Estate Colony will conduct cleanliness drive in commemoration of World Environment Day on June 5 at State Stadium, Dimapur from 7:00 am.

ABTF promotes environmental protection CAN Youth organize workshop on ‘Beauty Preneur’

Paper bags being distributed to a shop in Kohima Town by the theological students on June 3.

churches participated in the work initiated by the JBTF. Meanwhile, the Chakhro theological students planted trees along the highway beginning

from Higher Secondary School Chumukedima till Khovarü. Around 150 members and youth participated in the programme.

The Northern Angami

theological students planted hundreds of fruit trees along the National Highway 61, where hundreds of youth from 30 churches under Pesocha council participated.

In order to discourage plastic bags, Kohima Town area theological members and youth distributed hand-made paper bags to many shops in Kohima Town, the release further said. Many youths from the Angami Baptist churches under Kohima council participated in this work.

The Western Angami theological youth worked at the compound of Western Angami Baptist Council at Sechü–Zubza. Around 70 people participated in the work which included plantation, cleaning and gardening.

davp 06331/13/0006/1718

Kohima, June 4 (mexn): In an effort to create awareness and advocacy on environmental protection, Angami Baptist Theological Fellowship (ABTF) under Angami Baptist Church Council (ABCC) initiated a mass social work in five different zones in two districts of Nagaland on June 3. Altogether, more than 500 youth participated in the programme and around 4000 trees were planted.

A press release from Villo Naleo, President ABTF informed that the Southern Angami theological students along with some church youth planted 2300 trees along the National Highway 39, from Phesama till Khuzama. More than 150 youths from different

Dimapur, June 4 (mexn): CAN Youth organized an orientation cum workshop on ‘Beauty Preneur’ at Alaphra Group’s conference hall at Duncan Bosti, Dimapur on June 3.

Jenpu Rongmei, Chief Functionary of CAN Youth highlighted the employment problems faced by the Naga youths today. He opined that ‘Beauty Preneur’ will create an opportunity for women both in beauty and wellness, informed a press release.

Jenpu also encouraged the participants to work with dedication in order to promote their skills and abilities, which will lead to a productive life.

Resource person Velutalu Puro, Project Officer,

Participants of the orientation cum workshop organized by CAN Youth on June 3.

YouthNet and Faihamti Longmailai, Project Officer, CAN Youth conducted an activity to test the participants’ confidence and help them in setting up their units from scratch. It

encouraged coming out of their comfort zone and expanding their ideas.

Young agents of CAN Youth, Grace and Thsabilila conducted icebreaker activities to boost the self-

confidence of the participants.

The programme was chaired by Kivitoli Chishi, while welcome address was delivered by Sedelo Vadeo.

Monday 05•06•2017

NORTH-EAST 3

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

CRPF refuses to share IG Report on extra judicial killings in Assam New Delhi, JuNe 4 (PTi): The CRPF has refused to make public a fake encounter report, filed by one of its Inspector Generals, citing exemption granted to the paramilitary from disclosures under the RTI Act. In response to a query seeking a copy of the report on the fake encounter by a joint squad of security forces in Assam in which two persons were killed in cold blood, the CRPF cited section 24 of the RTI Act. Extra judicial killings

are violation of human rights and do not come under the exemption given to some organisations from making disclosures under the RTI Act. The act says when the information sought for pertains to human rights violations, it “shall be” provided after sanction from the Central Information Commission within 45 days. But the CRPF rather than referring the matter to the CIC, “rejected” the application.

Rajnish Rai, a

1992-batch IPS officer of Gujarat cadre, had filed a report with the CRPF top brass chronicling how a joint team of the Army, the Assam Police, the CRPF, its jungle warfare unit CoBRA and the border guarding force Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) conducted the encounter on March 29-30 in Simlaguri area of Chirang district and killed what they called were two insurgents of the banned outfit NDFB (S).

Rai, in his 13-page report, alleged that infor-

mation about the incident and FIR filed by the joint squad of forces present a “fictitious account” of the operation to “conceal preplanned murders of two persons in custody and present it as some brave act of professional achievement”.

The home ministry had acknowledged receiving the report and said it is being studied and action on its content will be taken soon.

Advisor to the home ministry Ashok Prasad had

said that the CRPF DG had received the report and would send it to the home ministry.

Rai, deputy chief of the CRPF formations in the northeastern states, had also sent the April 17 report to the Chief Secretary of Assam and chairperson of the Unified Command of security forces, the Central Reserve Police Force headquarters here, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 4 Corps in Assam and the Director Gen- A man transports his daughter on a bicycle through a flooded road after heavy rains on the eral of the SSB. outskirt of Agartala, June 2, 2017. (Reuters Photo)

Flood, landslides hit Assam; 13,000 affected Landslide kills a woman AAPSU opposes PADC demand GuwahaTi, JuNe 4 (iaNS): At least 13,000 people in Assam have been affected by flood, officials said on Sunday. Also, landslides triggered by incessant rain disrupted rail connectivity to the state's Barak Valley region.

Assam State Disaster Management Authority officials said at least 13,000 people have been affected due to the year's first wave of floods in 28 villages in Lakhimpur, Jorhat and Biswanath districts, in the past 24 hours.

Besides, landslides in the hilly Dima Hasao district snapped rail

link to Barak Valley. The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) had to cancel a passenger train to Silchar from Lumding on Saturday after landslides affected the hill section.

The water level in Brahmaputra river has indicated an increasing trend and is flowing above the danger level in Nimatighat, prompting the officials to suspend ferry services to the island district of Majuli from Jorhat.

Ferry services have been suspended in some other stretches as well due to the increasing water level in Brahmaputra river.

The Assam government has already instructed the officials in flood-prone districts to arrange relief and rescue materials in case of emergency situations.

The army, along with the civil administration, also carried out a joint exercise on flood rescue titled "Megh Rahat" in Dharamtul area in Morigaon district.

The exercise aimed to ensure collective mutual benefit of all participants, who ranged from the army and State Disaster Rescue Force (SDRF) personnel to local population including school children.

and two kids in Tripura

aGaRTala, JuNe 4 (iaNS): A tribal woman and her two children were killed when a landslide buried their house in Tripura, the police said here on Sunday.

"Kajal Kanya Debbarma, 47, and her two minor children died on the spot when their tin-roofed house was buried in a huge mudslide at Kamalpur in northern Tripura on Saturday night," Tripura State Rifles (TSR) third battalion Commandant Prabir Majumder told reporters.

Kajal Kanya's husband Rooti

Debbarma was seriously injured in the landslides and has been admitted to hospital.

"Despite heavy rains and huge mudslides, around 30 TSR jawans retrieved the bodies of the victims and Rooti Debbarma in alive," Majumder told reporters.

The mudslide swept the house down following heavy rains in the region.

In another incident, a 19-yearold youth was killed in a lightning strike at Churaibari in northern Tripura on Saturday night.

'Want to expand eco-tourism SC seeks reply from Assam govt on IPS officer’s bail plea New Delhi, JuNe 4 (PTi): The tion of the statutory requirement named in the FIR. in Arunachal Pradesh' The officer in his plea said that Supreme Court has sought the As- of section of 41 CrPC, that reasons MuMbai, JuNe 4 (iaNS): Responsible travellers who can contribute towards expansion of eco-tourism are welcome to the state, says Arunachal Pradesh Parliamentary Secretary for Tourism P.D. Sona.

The Tourism Ministry of the state has partnered with digital platform Arré Outdoors, which has come up with an eight-part series called "The Real High".

The show, starting June 10, involves youth icon Rannvijay Singh taking six city dwellers on a journey to the forests of Arunachal Pradesh, to experience life without beds, baths and iPhones.

Talking about the initiative, Sona told IANS here: "I represent a beautiful place called Arunachal Pradesh that has a lot to offer to the travel enthusiast. Our state is not only rich with its natural beauty, but also has a diverse culture within the community. So, I want to welcome all the responsible tourist as we intend to expand our eco-tourism in Arunachal Pradesh."

Asked about the emphasis on "responsible tourism", he explained: "You see, when a lot of tourists are gathering, a place might get polluted

with garbage, plastic bags etc, which might spoil our mother nature and we certainly do not want that to happen. That is why we want to invite people who have that concern and love for nature."

"We want people to come to our state and enjoy a great experience and learn what nature has to offer to mankind. I can assure them a surreal experience."

Asked why is the state tourism not growing enough despite the fact that the hills and the wildlife of Arunachal Pradesh have always mesmerized the visitors, Sona said: "I think there are two important factors involved in that. When it comes to the northeast, mainstream media always talks about its political issues, terrorism, how conflict zone is affected, etc."

"But we have to understand the northeast has seven states, and all of them are not affected by political turmoil.

My state is peaceful, we have a normal life, and we are a happy people."

He also said road connectivity is an issue.

"But that is work in progress. We have highways connectivity and air connectivity too."

sam government’s response on a bail plea by suspended IPS officer N Rajamarthandan, accused of providing information to a member of a socio-political organisation flouting RTI Act rules.

A vacation bench of justices M M Shantanagoudar and Deepak Gupta issued notice to the state government and listed the matter for further hearing on June 19.

Senior advocate Nitya Ramakrishnan, appearing for Rajamarthandan said the plea is against the May 15 order of the Gauhati High Court rejecting his bail.

In his plea, Rajamarthandan said that the case arises out of the disclosure under the Right To Information Act, 2005 of the SIT progress report in a local case.

“For no more than adhering to the spirit of the Right to Information Act, petitioner (Rajamarthandan) is being prosecuted and has been in custody since April 6, 2017, on registration of an FIR for offences under section 418, 471, 468 and 217 of IPC as well as section 5 (b) of Official Secrets Act and Section 98A of Assam Police Act,” he said.

The IPS officer of 2006 batch said that none of the offences are prima facie made out and all but one are bailable.

“Section 468 of IPC, is the sole non-bailable offence carrying a maximum of seven years, and the arrest itself is in contraven-

should be recorded for effecting an arrest in cases carrying a seven year term or less,” he said.

The officer giving detail of the case said that a local rioting incident took place under Silapthar police station on March 6 where an office of All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) was ransacked and a case was registered against various persons alleged to be members of an organisation Nikhil Bharat Banglali Udbastu Samanway Samitee (NBBUSS).

On March 6, NBBUSS chief Subodh Biswas had allegedly instigated a mob at a rally with his speech that led to the incident.

He was later arrested on March 22 from a place close to Bangladesh border in West Bengal’s North 24 Parganas.

The IPS officer said that around 60 people were arrested by the local police in this regard and an SIT was set up to supervise the investigation by the police in the case.

“Petitioner, who was SSP, CID headed the four member SIT team.

The other three members were from the local Assam Police but not the CID,” Rajamarthandan said.

He added that SIT gave its progress report on March 19, which noted the statements of 20 odd witnesses, video evidence and highlighted that that there is no direct evidence to show the presence of many arrested persons or others

the SIT progress report directed the investigating officer that cogent material should be collected before roping in people as offenders and keeping them in custody. The report was also submitted in court.

“The petitioner was also Public Information Officer, CID, an office under the Right to Information Act. Upon an application made by one Ambika Ray, advocate, under the Act, the petitioner is said to have given a copy of the said report to him,” he said. The officer claimed that alleging that this handing over a copy of the progress report was an offence, an FIR was lodged against him on April 4, and subsequently the petitioner was arrested on April 6, after two days of interrogation.

“The state’s case is that the RTI application is ‘suspected to be’ in the petitioner’s hand and that this amounts to a forgery. It is also alleged that the information was shared on ‘WhatsApp’ with the applicant Ambika Ray,” he said. He said that the state government has claimed that the CID is exempted from the Right to Information Act and so the progress report should not have been shared.

The incident of March 6 had sparked off widespread protests with the several organisations viewing it as an attack on the Assamese by the illegal Bangladeshi immigrants.

iTaNaGaR, JuNe 4 (TNN): The All Arunachal Pradesh Students' Union (AAPSU) said it has strong reasons to oppose and question the nature of demand for Patkai Autonomous District Council (PADC) comprising Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts under Article 371(A) of the Constitution. The students' body said Article 371(A) is a special provision granted to Nagaland as a partial fulfillment of the 1960 agreement that created the state in 1963. The PADC is misguiding the people in demanding the district council under Article 371(A), which is solely for the state of Nagaland, thereby undermining the spirit of one Arunachal Pradesh, the union added.

Assam will help Tripura grow, says Sonowal aGaRTala, JuNe 4 (The hiNDu): Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said his State will help Tripura grow in every sphere after the BJP installs its own government there. He also alleged that the CPI(M) has exploited people at large and the youths to remain in power for past 24 years.

“Tripura is lacking development, so no remarkable change has taken place in the State. From farmers to youths all are suffering due to absence of concrete policies,” Sonowal said on Saturday evening.

Sonowal also attended the Modi Fest at Santirbazar in south Tripura. He appealed to the youths to be ‘game changer’ in Tripura as they did in the rest of the country to complement good works and vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“I am sure there will be a BJP government in Tripura after 2018 Assembly elections as people want development and progress,” he asserted.

Kolasib NGOs in Mizoram threaten to block NH-54 aiZawl, JuNe 4 (NNN): Mizoram's Kolasib District All NGO Committee has threatened to impose total blockade on National Highway-54 connecting Mizoram with Assam in protest against the transfer order of a surgeon at Kolasib district hospital.

Leaders of Kolasib District All NGO Committee said that road blockade on National Highway-54 would be imposed unless the government revoke the transfer order of Dr. Zothansanga Zadeng, a surgeon at the district hospital latest by Monday.

Earlier on Thursday and Friday, the NGO committee had imposed a strike on all government offices in Kolasib town demanding the State government to revoke the transfer order.

Meanwhile, Serchhip District Joint Action Committee issued a statement on Sunday asking Dr. Zadeng to immediately join Serchhip District Hospital.

The statement also condemned the action of MZP and JAC of Kolasib district and said that all possible efforts would be taken so that the doctor immediately join Serchhip District Hospital.

57 children with clubfoot cured in Mizoram Despite Sonwal government's mandate, 'Dadagiri' tax continues in Assam aiZawl, JuNe 4 (uNi): Since its inception in 2012, the Cure Clubfoot Mizoram (CCFM) has cured 57 children with clubfoot in the state.

CCFM chairman Zohmingthangi Sailo, speaking at World Clubfoot Day 2017 function here on June 3, said at the initiatives of the CCFM, Mizoram doctors have successfully operated clubfoot sur-

gery with ‘Ponseti method’ for 57 times during the last five years.

Clubfoot clinic is opened on every Thursday at two civil hospitals – Aizawl and southern Mizoram’s town Lunglei, she said.

Clubfoot surgeries are operated free of cost under the joint venture of CCFM and the state health department under the National Health Mission’s Rashtriya Bal Swasthya.

24-hour total Moreh road blockade iMPhal, JuNe 4 (NNN): Stating that “no one is safe anymore” in border area including Moreh town, different organizations based in the border town have decided to impose “total blockade” on National Highway-102 from midnight of June 4 to midnight of June 5 in protest against the series of blasts and killings in recent time.

Hill Tribal Council (HTC), Meitei Council Moreh (MCM), MMCM, Sangam Tamil and Gorkha Samaj in a joint meeting today strongly condemned the IED blast on Saturday near Moreh town where three Assam Rifles personnel were critically injured.

“This inhuman act of cowardice by miscreants is to be condemned by one and all as it serves no good,” a joint statement of the three organizations said today. They also appealed to the perpetrators of the incidents to stop their acts of violence which are posing great threats to public life. “We also express our abhorrence to such anti-social elements who are keen to disturb the peaceful co-existence in Moreh town and its surrounding areas,” the joint press note said.

Meanwhile, the proscribed People’s Revolutionary Front (RPF), one of the valley based militant outfits, has claimed re-

sponsibility for Saturday’s blast. In a press statement today, the RPF said that the outfit had carried out the attack on the 11 Assam Rifles’ patrol near Moreh town.

In view of the recent increase in the incidents of IED blasts, cases of ambush on security forces and killings of civilians in Moreh town and nearby areas bordering Myanmar, the State Government of Manipur has constituted a 7 member Committee to study the circumstances and reasons behind these incidences and to recommend remedial measures to maintain peace and tranquility in the area.

The Committee is headed by Pramod Asthana, ADGP as Chairman and the other members are S. Ibomcha Singh, IGP (Admin), Brig (Retd) SK Sharma, DIG/CRPF, A. Shamoo Singh, DIG/BSF and one member each to be nominated by IGAR (South), GOC, 57Mtn Division and DD/SIB. The Committee will find groups or individuals responsible for such incidents based on the inputs from various security agencies and public interaction. Further, the Committee shall submit its report within 15 days. The State Home Department has issued an order to this effect.

SRiRaMPuR, JuNe 4 (NDTV): It has been more than a year since the BJPled coalition government took charge in Assam. Last week, on the government's anniversary Prime Minister Narendra Modi flew to the state and praised the administration for solving a large number of the problems.

But an NDTV investigation however has found that one of the government's first promises - stamping out illegal extortion rackets - was seemingly floundered on the state's highways.

To top it, truckers and collection agents involved in this illegal extortion syndicate claim that it's the Assam Police which not only "protects" them but a section of the top officials force are the kingpins behind this high state game.

Illegal and forceful tax collection at the border check gates was prevalent during the previous Congress regime as well. No less than Rs. 6 crore is collected illegally in a month, though the very first decision of the Sonowal cabinet was for a crackdown against this racket.

In video recorded with

hidden cameras, at the Assam-West Bengal border check gate at Srirampur, about 280 KM away from Guwahati, people are seen collecting money from truckers - an illegal and forceful extortion locally called the 'Dadagiri Tax' a practice for years together that Sonowal wanted to end.

Every day hundreds of truck pass through the National Highway 31C - the main highway that links North East India to the rest of the country - and each one of them pay a very heavy illegal tax to ensure their safe passage.

"We have to pay for bordering passing and also the illegal collection, which is called Dadagiri Tax. We have to pay both times while getting into Assam and while leaving Assam.

For few months the illegal collection was not happening, it has started once again," a truck driver said.

At Srirampur, the 'Dadagiri tax' averages at Rs 500 per truck. Empty trucks are charged Rs. 200.

Added to it is Rs. 100 each needs to be given to sales tax personnel and motor vehicle inspector

despite carrying all valid sh Sahay said, "As for clan- our mandate is clear that if papers. destine activities, there are we get proof that strict acOn an average, 1,200 black sheep ever where, but tion will be taken." truck pass in a day through Srirampur. The daily illegal collection is estimated to EX-SERVICEMEN CONTRIBUTORY HEALTH SCHEME (ECHS) be Rs. 9.6 lakh.

EMPLOYMENT NOTICE And there are speFor ECHS Polyclinic, Kohima only cial cases - trucks carryECHS invites applications for panel/engagement of staff ing poultry have to pay Rs. Nursing Asst holding GNM Diploma/Class-I Nursing Assistant course (Armed Forces) with minimum five yrs 1,000, in a day. experience. Candidate will be employed on contractual basis In all, it is estimated for three months. that at least Rs. 6 crores is ilApplication will be submitted to Station Headquarter ECHS legally collected in this way Cell, Zakhama by 30 Jun 2017. The date of interview will be intimated to the shortlisted candidates. For details please visit under the racket a month.

Station Headquarters ECHS Cell, Zakhama.

Asked about the racket, Tele No: 0373-2231033, & (Toll Free): 18003453856, Assam police chief MukeWeb: www.echs.gov.in.

THETA TUTORIALS Lower P. R. Hill, Kohima, Nagaland Admission Notice

1. Coaching for Class 10 2. Coaching for Class 11 (Science) 3. Coaching for Class 12 (Science) 4. Coaching for JEE Main / NEET / NSEE - 2018 Issue of Form & Prospectus : 05-06-2017 (Monday) onwards Admission : 05-06-2017 (Monday) onwards Commencement of Classes : 10-07-2017 (Monday) Documents required: 1) One Passport Size Photo 2) Photocopy of HSLC/HSSLC Exam Admit Card/Mark Sheet or ID Card Contact No. (0370) 2226005 / 2244814 / 9436410403

4

MondAY 05•06•2017

business

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

not yet prepared for GST Monetary policy review, GST to affect markets' movement Banks roll-out: Indian Banks' Association

MuMbai, June 4 (ianS): The Reserve Bank of India's monetary policy review, along with the finalised Goods and Services Tax (GST) sub-rates and the last of quarterly results are expected to affect the movement of key stock markets during the upcoming week.

Market analysts observed that other major themes like news on monsoon progress, global geopolitical situation and crude oil prices will impact investors' risktaking appetite in the highly expensive market environment.

"Some profit-booking is expected and markets may witness some shallow correction; however, the trend in both the shortand medium-term remains positive," Dhruv Desai, Director and Chief Operating Officer of Trade-

bulls, told IANS. "Banking sector stocks would be in focus with the RBI's credit policy scheduled on the 7th of June."

According to D.K. Aggarwal, Chairman and Managing Director, SMC Investments and Advisors, the recent inflation data and the slowdown in growth rate might give the central bank enough room to reduce benchmark interest rates.

"A surprise slowdown in Indian growth along with record-low inflation has created room for the central bank to ease interest rates," Aggarwal explained.

"However, it is expected to keep the repo rate unchanged in its upcoming meeting scheduled on June 7."

Apart from the monetary policy review, foreign funds' inflows and progress on the monsoon can trigger volatility.

Last week's figures from the National Securities Depository (NSDL) revealed that foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) invested in a total of equities and debts worth Rs 4,691.05 crore, or $726.51 million, during May 29-June 2.

Provisional figures from the stock exchanges showed that foreign institutional investors (FIIs) sold stocks worth Rs 454.58 crore, while domestic institutional investors (DIIs) purchased scrips worth Rs 111.90 crore during the week.

"Markets will probably continue to be range-bound with a positive bias supported by do-

mestic flows as well as local positive earnings' surprises," Devendra Nevgi, Chief Executive of Zyfin Advisors, told IANS. Besides global cues, the last batch of quarterly results will guide the movement of the markets.

"Markets continue to punish stocks with poor earnings vis-avis estimates. The idiosyncratic factors for single stocks would dominate too," Nevgi elaborated.

"Pharma sector seems to be attracting some value buying.

Consumer-facing stocks would continue to run on back of earnings and monsoon predictions."

On technical-levels, the NSE Nifty is expected to remain in an intermediate uptrend.

"Technically, with the Nifty

surging to new life highs, the index remains in an intermediate uptrend," Deepak Jasani, Head - Retail Research, HDFC Securities, told IANS. "Further upsides are likely once the immediate resistances of 9,732 points are taken out. Crucial supports to watch for weakness are at 9,547 points."

The key equity indices had scaled new highs last week on the back of early monsoon onset, positive global cues and optimism about the GST roll-out.

Consequently, the barometer 30-scrip S&P BSE Sensex surged by 245.08 points or 0.79 per cent to 31,273.29 points, while the wider NSE Nifty rose by 58.4 points or 0.60 per cent to 9,653.50 points.

Real estate, retail, logistics to Toyota-supported flying car hopes to create maximum jobs in India light the Tokyo 2020 Olympic flame new Delhi, June 4 (PTi): Sectors such as construction and real estate, beauty and wellness, organised retail, transport and logistics hold the maximum job potential in India in the near future, according to a report.

The AssochamThought Arbitrage Research Institute Paper noted that the countrys information technology and IT-enabled services sector may add at best one million jobs in the next five years.

"The IT and ITeS, which is under pressure at present, in any case, was to expand at

lesser pace in job creation.

On the employment base of 3.3 million in 2013, the much-touted sector had an incremental human resource requirement of 2.2 million by 2022, of which about one million have been added in the last 3-4 years," the report pointed out.

It observed that the IT and ITeS is going through fresh challenges of technology upgradation, automation, visa restrictions in the US and increasing skill gaps.

"Thus, as a country which requires at least 1520 million jobs a year, we need to look quite broader

and at those areas which expand not only in the export market but also within the country," Assocham Secretary General D S Rawat said.

Mapping the job potential, the paper found that on the employment base of 45.4 million in 2013, the building, construction and real estate (including infrastructure) would require 31.1 million incremental human resources.

Likewise, organised retail can create incremental level of at least 10-12 million new jobs in the next five years.

Journalists film Cartivator's flying car during its demo in Toyota, Japan on June 3. (REUTERS) During their demon- receive further investment TOYOTa CiTY, June 4 (ReuTeRS): Engineers, stration, the current test from the company.

Companies in the supported by Toyota Mo- model was able to get off tor Corp (7203.T), dem- and float on the ground for world have been competonstrated their flying car a few seconds. Nakamura ing to develop the first flyon Saturday, which they said the design needed ing car or vertical take-off else. Kumar, who claims more stability so the pro- and landing (VTOL) veto be suffering from knee- hope will be able to light totype would be able to fly hicles. Uber Technologies up the Olympic flame for joint pain, had booked a long and high enough to Inc [UBER.UL] announced the opening ceremony of lower berth. It was alleged its plan to deploy its flying reach the Olympic flame. the Tokyo 2020 Summer

by Kumar that some unautaxi service by 2020 in DalEngineers of Cartivator Games. thorised persons entered "Cartivator", a start- are aiming to make their las-Fort Worth, Texas, and into the compartment and occupied his seat/berth up group of about 30 en- flying car the world's small- Dubai. Airbus Group is also at Bina Station in Madhya gineers including some est electric vehicle, which working on developing its Pradesh. It was further al- young Toyota employees, can be used in small urban flying car under its division leged that the unauthor- started to develop a flying areas, and hopes to com- called Urban Air Mobility.

But makers of "flying ised passengers created lot car "SkyDrive" in 2014 with mercialize the car in 2025.

Last month, Toyota Mo- cars" still face hurdles, inof nuisance and caused in- the help of crowdfunding.

Head of Cartivator, tor and its group of compa- cluding convincing reguconvenience to him as well as to his co-passengers. He Tsubasa Nakamura, said nies agreed to invest 42.5 lators and the public that tried to complain to the that while the car was still at million yen ($385,000) in their products can be used TTE or any other railway an early stage of develop- the project for the next three safely. Governments are official but no one could be ment, the group expects to years. Nakamura said the still grappling with regulafound, Kumar had claimed conduct the first manned- group is working hard to im- tions for drones and driverin his complaint. prove the design, hoping to less cars. flight by the end of 2018.

Railways asked to pay Rs 75k to a passenger because his seat was occupied by others new Delhi, June 4 (PTi): The state consumer commission has asked the Indian Railways to pay Rs. 75,000 to a man for the inconvenience he suffered when his reserved seat was occupied by unauthorised persons for most part of his journey. The Delhi State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (SCDRC) has upheld the district forum's order which had asked the Railways to deduct one third of the compensation from the salary of the ticket checker who apparently failed to ensure that the reserved

seat of the aggrieved passenger was not used by anyone else. "The compensation of Rs. 75,000 awarded by the district forum is reasonable and appropriate. The same has been awarded by considering the facts and circumstances of the case," the bench headed by its president Justice Veena Birbal said.

A Delhi resident V Vijay Kumar, in his complaint, said that when he travelled by Dakshin Express on March 30, 2013 from Visakhapatnam to New Delhi, his reserved seat was occupied by someone

leisure

CROSSWORD # 3964

SUDOKU

ACROSS 1. Domesticates 6. Spheres 10. On the road 14. Previously 15. Calf’s meat 16. Man 17. Hawaiian veranda 18. Beige 19. Biblical garden 20. Hybridize 22. Past tense of Leap 23. French Sudan 24. Japanese hostess 26. List of options 30. Hit on the head 31. Conceit 32. Not odd 33. Dines 35. Stadium 39. Sextuple 41. Corpse 43. Change 44. Char 46. Squad 47. Make lace 49. 16 in Roman numerals 50. Catch a glimpse of 51. A grinding tool 54. Annoyance 56. Away from the wind 57. Tending to vanish like vapor 63. A purring sound 64. A tart spicy quality 65. Fervor 66. Border 67. Being 68. Audio communications 69. Sow 70. Marsh plant 71. Epee or saber DOWN 1. After-bath powder 2. A long way off 3. Not stereo

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

Game Number # 3961

Answer Number # 3960

std code: 03862

DiMaPUR 4. Historical periods 5. Earthquake 6. Overburdens 7. Proof of purchase 8. Exposed 9. Gunk 10. Improve 11. Walks through water 12. First Hebrew letter 13. Busybody 21. Biblical tower 25. Quaint outburst 26. Plateau 27. Wicked 28. Following 29. Unshackled 34. Salvaged 36. Nights before 37. Half-moon tide 38. Legion 40. By mouth 42. Rebel 45. Scope 48. Move unsteadily 51. Strides 52. Avoid 53. Twilled fabric 55. Russian emperors 58. Flower holder 59. A pouch in some birds 60. Cocoyam 61. French for “Black” 62. Stepped

ABoUt AssIstAnt BeGIn CHAnGe CHArM CreAte deVeLoPMent donAte dote edUCAte ePIsode eVent FICtIon FIGUre FIrst GenerAL Genre HAPPY HeAr

Heroes LeAF Lees LIttLe MInUte nUts Pester PoIse PrInt reseArCH serIes sIte sPeCIAL tArn Under UtAH VIewer wAste wIZArd

new Delhi, June 4 (PTi): Solar power developers are bullish on the clean energy and hopeful of tariff coming down to as low as Rs 1.5 per unit on falling equipment cost and cheaper credit with assured purchase pacts. Solar power tariff came down to all-time low of Rs 2.44 per unit in the auction conducted for Bhadla solar park last month mainly due to lower equipment and borrowing costs. The new rate of solar power is even below the average rate of coal-based power produced by state-run NTPC at Rs 3.30 per unit. “The developers are bullish on renewables particularly solar energy. They think that even Rs 2.44 per unit tariff is high in view of lowering of the cost of equipment and avenues available for cheaper funding through various channels,” a source in the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy said. “The developers are ready for another round of aggressive biddings and think that the solar power tariff is viable even at Rs 1.5 per unit,” the source said further. The cost of solar equipment was around Rs 20 crore per Mw and tariff was around Rs 15 per unit about 7-8 years ago. But with the passage of time and economies of scales at play, the cost of equipment today ranges between Rs 4-4.5 crore per MW and cost of borrowing has come down by about 4 per cent. Similar is the case with wind power wherein tariff dipped to Rs 3.46 per unit in an auction earlier this year.

TaHaMZaM

std code: 03871

(formerly senapati)

emergency MH Hospital

227930 231081

Fire Brigade

2222952

Faith Hospital

228846

naga Hospital

2222916

shamrock Hospital

228254

oking Hospital

2243339

Zion Hospital

231864 224117 227337

Bethel nursing Home

2224202

northeast shuttles

08974997923

Police Control room

228400

Police Traffic Control

232106

east Police station

227607

west Police station

232181

CIHsr (referral Hospital)

242555 242533

dimapur Hospital

Police station Fire Brigade

north Ps south Ps

Officer-in-Charge 8575045520

224041 248011

Chiephobozou Ps 8575045506 Officer-in-Charge 8575045516 tseminyu Ps

8575045507

Officer-in-Charge 8575045517 Khuzama Ps

8575045505

Officer-in-Charge 8575045515

nikos Hospital and research Centre

232032, 231031

Kezocha Ps

nagaland Multispecialty Health & research Centre

248302, 09856006026

women Cell

248722 /248288, 9615945510

C

8575045508

Officer-in-Charge 8575045518

229366 242441 225212

R

8575045502

Zubza Ps

Airport Indian Airlines

A

8575045501

Officer-in-Charge 8575045510

131/228404

E

std code: 0370

KoHIMA Ps/oCs Contact numbers

railway

S

222246 222491

KOHiMa

Apollo Hospital Info Centre 230695/ 9402435652

D

‘Solar power tariff may drop to Rs 1.5/ unit on cheap credit, falling costs’

229529 229474

eden Medical Centre

R

new Delhi, June 4 (PTi): India has been ranked 45th, down four notches from last year, in terms of competitiveness in the annual rankings compiled by IMD which saw Hong Kong topping the list. Switzerland and Singapore were ranked second and third respectively, with the USA at the fourth spot -- its lowest position in five years and down from third last year. The Netherlands completed the top five, jumping up from eighth last year.Others in the top 10 list include Ireland at 6th, Denmark 7th, Luxembourg (8th), Sweden (9th) and UAE at 10th. As India slid, China improved its position by seven places to 18th, thanks to its dedication to international trade.The International Institute for Management Development’s (IMD) World Competitiveness Center is a research group at IMD business school in Switzerland. It has been publishing the rankings every year since 1989. This year’s list comprises 63 countries with Cyprus and Saudi Arabia making their first appearance.

232224

Chumukedima Fire Brigade 282777

O

India down four notches in IMD’s World Competitiveness list

Civil Hospital

Answer to Crossword 3963

W

new Delhi, June 4 (PTi): With less than a month left for the roll-out of goods and services tax (GST), the Indian Banks' Association (IBA) has informed a Parliamentary panel that lenders are not yet geared up for implementation of the new indirect tax regime.

"Since the GST will be operational from July 1, 2017, banks have to make lot of changes in their systems and other procedures. The preparedness of all banks for implementation of GST on July 1, 2017, is a question mark," the IBA has conveyed to the Parliamentary Standing Committee on Finance. The IBA further said that several services by banks to customers are centralised while several others are localised. Banks will have to make changes in the existing infrastructure which would be a huge challenge for the banks.

The IBA had taken up the case for central registration, the association added.

H

8575045549

Officer-in-Charge 8575045538 8575045509

Officer-in-Charge 8575045519 Control room

8575045500 (Emergency No. – 100)

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) we4 woMen HeLPLIne 08822911011 WOMEN HeLPLIne 181 CHiLD weLFAre CoMMIttee Toll free No. 1098 childline

MOKOKCHUNG

std code: 0369

Police station 1 Police station 2 Police station Kobulong Police station tuli Police station Changtongya Police station Mangkolemba Civil Hospital

9485232688 9485232689 9485232690 9485232693 9485232694 9485232695 2226216

woodland nursing Home

2226263

Hotel Metsüpen (tourist Lodge) 2226373/ 2229343

CURRENCY NOTES BUY (rs) seLL (rs)

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

63.1 80.79 7.83 46.89 45.51 46.8 56.36 70.37 1.79 0.0545 16.62 8.96

95.94 84.68 8.72 49.17 47.72 49.08 59.53 73.76 2.00 0.0608 18.52 9.98

monday 05•06•2017

NAGALAND

World Environment Day today AYO initiates actions toward ea beST award and environmental protection commencement Day held Kohima, June 4 (mexn): Entrepreneurs Associates’ Basic Entrepreneurial Skills Training (BEST) Award and Commencement Day for its 9th Wave of trainees was held at the head office, PWD junction Kohima. Gopen Keisham Moses, Team Leader, EA Manipur was the special guest.

Gopen spoke about the purpose of the BEST training conducted by EA. BEST, he said, is a means of generating new thinking amongst the younger generation which leads to progressive action. He spoke about his own experiences growing up in poverty and having to fend for himself,

which gave him the zeal to work hard towards becoming a successful entrepreneur, informed a press release. He encouraged the trainees by telling them about his journey both as a successful professional in the development sector and his changing perspectives to do business in Manipur thereby affecting change within his own society.

Imlitemjen Longkumer, Trainer at EA echoed similar thoughts on the importance of hard work, positive attitude, persistence on what it takes to be an entrepreneur challenging the trainees to start their journey with the question

“Are you willing?”

Trainees who underwent the BEST programme were also given time to share their learnings, experiences, perspectives and their plans as they start their own entrepreneurial journeys.

Shiroi Lily Shaiza, Program Manager, EA announced the Award and Certificates to the trainees.

Cash incentives earned during the training were handed over to all the participants along with certificates. The EA Excellence Award, which is an award for promising entrepreneurs based on their performance, idea and innovation, along with free

Kohima, June 4 (mexn): The World Environment Day will take place on June 5 at Mokokchung Town Hall from 10:00 am onwards under the theme “Connecting people to nature.”

Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) Speaker Dr. Imtiwapang Aier will grace the occasion as the chief guest while host’s remark will be given by Minister for Environment, Forest & Climate Change Imkong L. Imchen.

Parliamentary Secretary for CAWD Dr. Benjongliba Aier will be the guest speaker while

of interest loan was presented to four trainees Yuwe Konyak, Mhasitono Yhokha, Ngonlem L, and Nipano Yakhro.

The programme also saw Thejazevi Rürhia, Project Coordinator BEST, giving a summary of the training.

EA in the press release stated that BEST (Basic Entrepreneurial Skills Training) is a programme, which facilitates learning basics of start-up entrepreneurial ventures for aspiring entrepreneurs and is held year round. It is an EA initiative and supported by the Tata Trust, Mumbai. The 9th pheK, June 4 (Dipr): Wave was held from May 1 The Department of Legal Metrology & Consumer Proto June 2. tection, Phek has informed all the Voluntary Consumer Organisations/Consumer Societies which are active and working for the interdorsed and supported est of the consumers under the Framework Agree- Phek district to immediately ment signed on 3rd Au- contact the office of the Asgust 2015. In spite of his ill sistant Controller, Legal Mehealth he has been faith- trology & Consumer Protecfully working for the cause tion, Phek along with their of the nation and contrib- progress report/status of the uted his last mite,” the organization, action plan etc before June 15, 2017. message read.

“Today we the Kuki Tribal Union and the Naga nation have lost a strong leader who had given his everything for the cause of the Naga nation,” the message stated Kohima, June 4 and added that his “su- (mexn): The Director of preme sacrifice” to the Animal Husbandry & VeterKuki and Naga nation inary Services, Nagaland Koshall always be remem- hima has informed that the forms under RKVY Scheme bered and cherished.

The President, KTU 2016-17 for Kohima district along with all rank and will be issued on June 6. This file of the NSCN extended is in pursuance of the Dicondolences to the be- rectorate NO.VET/RKVY-3 reaved family and prayed dated Kohima May 12, 2017, for the departed soul to informed Dr. Vivotuo Miachieo, Chief Veterinary & AH rest in peace.

Officer, Kohima.

KTU/NSCN (IM) condoles

ENSF Presidential meeting

Dimapur, June 4 (mexn): The President of the Kuki Tribal Union of the NSCN (IM), LH Paohao, has deeply mourned the demise of Khailun Haokip, Steering Committee Member on June 1.

A condolence message from the President alleged that late Haokip was kidnapped at Natjang Village, under Kamjong Block in Ukhrul on May 28 by the KNF (N - James faction) and subsequently murdered on June 1.

The President in his message recalled that Haokip had been in the KNA but had decided to join the NSCN/KTU “to strengthen the Indo-Naga political talks”.

“He was one of the leaders who fully en-

Phek DPDB meeting preponed The monthly meeting of Phek District Planning & Development Board (DPDB) for the month of June has been preponed to June 9 “due to unavoidable circumstances”.

Time and venue remain the same. A press release from Kezungupe Tsuhah, DPO & Member Secretary, DPDB Phek further informed that Chairman, DPDB Phek desires that all board members join the lunch at 10:30 am at GA Rest House, Phek and proceed for meeting. All the members have been requested to attend without fail.

KNCS general meeting Kyong Naga Cultural society (KNCS) Kohima has convened general meeting on June 10, 10:00 am at Kohima Lotha Hoho Ki, Kezieke. Stating that the meeting will deliberate to strengthen the society, KNCS president Zubemo Kithan in a release has requested all the executives, members from 2008-2017 and well wishers to attend the meeting.

PKE coordination meeting A coordination meeting of Podinakup Ekhung office bearers, executives, advisory board and various committee members, elders and government officials has been scheduled to be held on June 9 at Chudi village council hall, Chudi at 10:00 am. The house will discuss various important issues and agendas; therefore, all the concern members are requested to attend the said meeting positively, a press release informed.

TGSU COLA plenary meeting The second plenary coordination meeting of 'Committee on Local Arrangement' (COLA) TGSU to prepare for the 39th RSU General Conference 2017 has been convened on June 10, 11:00 am at Tesophenyu Community Hall. All the steering and the sub-committee members have been requested to attend the meeting with respective reports for presentation.

Kohima, June 4 (mexn): Coinciding with the World Environment Day, the Angami Youth Organisation is initiating an afforestation drive on June 5 within the vicinity of Kohima town as the first leg of its initiative towards environmental protection and preservation.

According to a press release from the organisation’s Environment Secretary, sanitation drives in various localities of Kohima and all Angami villages will also be carried out on the day.

In this regard, the AYO has appealed to all the village units, ranges, municipalities and to all concerned to do the “fullest possible” towards the implementation of the initiative.

Legal Metrology & Consumer Dept Phek informs

Meetings & AppointMents In pursuance to the minutes adopted during the ENSF new executives meeting held at Tuensang HQ on May 18, the office of the Eastern Naga Students’ Federation (ENSF) has convened a presidential meeting with the Confederation of Chang Students’ Union (CCSU), Yimchungrü Akherü Arihako (YAA), United Sangtam Students’ Conference (USSC), Khiamniungan Students’ Union (KSU), Phom Students’ Conference (PSC) and Konyak Students’ Union (KSU) at DUDA Guest House Kohima on June 8, 10:00 am. In this regard, the federation has asked the Presidents and Educational Secretaries of all the six federating units to attend the said meeting without fail.

Parliamentary Secretary for Industries & Commerce Amenba Yaden will talk on “Best practices of jhumming.”

Topics on role of village councils in conservation, impacts of climate change and wildlife conservation will be delivered by Imkonglemba, IAS, Prof. Sangyu Yaden and Prof. Lanunungsang Imchen respectively.

Success story on conservation will be shared by Sendenyu village council. Short play will be rendered by Dreamz Unlimited.

RKVY forms to be issued on June 6 for Kma

The NPF Dimapur Division organised a reception programme and warmly received Nagaland Chief Minister and President, Naga People's Front Dr Shurhozelie Liezietsu at Dimapur Airport on Sunday afternoon on his return from Europe where he had gone to visit the graves of Naga volunteers who served the Allied forces during the First World War as labour Corps.

The youth body of Bethany– 1 in Phek Town organized a social work on May 27.

BJP assures to bring all-round development, check corruption pheK, June 4 (mexn): Nagaland State BJP leaders, Phek district executives, Mandal leaders and party workers from villages within Chozuba Assembly Constituency had a daylong meeting at Chetheba Town on June 2.

Dr. Vekhosehu Thingo, BJP State Executive Member in his speech focused on strong party organisational network set up in all Phek district assembly constituencies, said a press release from Media Cell, BJP Phek district.

He emphasized that in each village, the village Executive Body of the party with Yuva Morcha, Mahila and all other various units must be completely set up and kept fully functional.

“The bright days are coming when the BJP will form the next Government in the state to bring in all-round de-

velopment and to put down the high degree of corruption at bay,” he stated, according to the release.

He pointed out corruption is ruthlessly high at all levels of government and in Naga society. “This is dangerously creating a rich and poor gap, causing disharmony...

Due to corruption, citizens are deprived of the right to receive development in spite of many important schemes and big projects from the Central government… Even if some projects are taken up they are of inferior quality so it does not last long or hardly of any use.”

The BJP leader further expressed confidence that when the BJP forms Government in the State, the misuse of development fund will be brought under check. He also lamented that even after over

half a century of statehood, there is no notable development in the state or good infrastructural facilities for the young generation.

Pointing out that educated unemployed rate is rising alarmingly, he said employees in the state government are largely disproportionate to the population of the state.

“Government employees should remain within 70,000 as per standard calculation of ratio. This oversized government employees is consuming larger chunk of fund allotted from Central government as salaries, wages and perks.

This leaves only a small percentage for development purpose. This is killing the Nagas. Non payment of salaries and wages on time is a yearly affair,” he added.

Dr. Vekhosehu maintained that people should re-

alise the circumstances and rise to the occasion and vote massively for BJP in the next general election. “Because Nagaland state is not a producer but a consumer society, naturally there is a heavy reliance on the Central government on financial matters. So without sufficient and smooth flow of fund regularly the state suffers. Therefore, a BJP government in the state with closeness to the Central government will best solve the problem of the state.”

He also dismissed accusations of BJP being against Christianity as “cheap rumours and propaganda.” He asserted the party “is in no manner against Christianity or any other minority religious groups,” adding “it guarantees, safeguards and uphold different religious groups.”

President of Philimi Youth Front, Huska Wotsa receiving certificate of appreciation on behalf of the village from Parliamentary Secretary, Deo Nukhu on the occasion of World No Tobacco Day observed in Kohima, May 31. The certificate was awarded to Philimi village in recognition of outstanding contribution to tobacco control and achieving the status of Tobacco Free Village during 2016-17.

Public SPace Enjoy Luxuries, But Spare A Thought For The Environment

Prof. Mithilesh Kumar Sinha

Finance Officer, Nagaland University, Lumami

I

t is a little ironical but necessary that we observe certain days of the year for factors that protect us from harm throughout our lives- Earth Day, World Environment Day and World Ozone Day. But then if you think of it, that if there were no such days, there would be even less awareness and activity about these life-giving and life-saving entities in the universe. Today being the World Environmental Day is imperative that we not only talk about it but also promise ourselves to own up to the responsibility of the upkeep of environment pure and making this planet a more liveable place for us and future generations.

These days, with pace of development, the human beings have been facing a lot of environmental problems such as global warming, ozone layer depletion, acid rain, famines, droughts, flood, scarcity of fuel, firewood, fodder, pollution of air and water problems from hazardous chemicals and radiation. Growth of population is significantly influenc-

ing resource depletion and environment pollution.

Air pollution in cities and urban centres is due to the deterioration of the quality of air caused by population increase and industrialisation.

Utilization of coal as fuel and incomplete combustion of it pump out soot, sulphur and other components into the atmosphere. Thermal power stations, iron and steel foundries, fertilizer plants, copper and industries release harmful chemicals into the air.

Air is polluted by six basic sources i.e. automobiles, electric power plants, industrial processors, heating plants, transportation and indiscriminate use of biocides. The Centre of Science and Environment has pointed out that one person dies every hour in Delhi because of air pollution.

We have been polluting our rivers,, lakes and oceans. Subsequently, we are slowly but surely harming our planet to the point where organisms are dying at a very alarming rate. In addition to innocent organisms dying off our drinking water has become greatly affected, as is our ability to use water for recreational purposes.

Use of plastic, especially plastic

bags, pollutes the environment. After using plastic bags, when they are thrown away, they create many environmental problems. In India, plastic bags are thrown into the sea, especially in tourist centres like beaches and cause immeasurable harm to marine life. Streams and stretches of rivers are affected by plastic bags. Yamuna in Delhi as well as downstream, receives hundreds of poly bags every day with flowers wrapped up in them as offering to the Almighty. Some plastic bags contain toxic dyes. When the plastic bags are used for packing the foodstuffs, the toxic dyes can leak into foodstuffs, endangering consumer health.

In the major roads of urban areas, sounds of automobiles make a person physically and psychologically ill.

The love for extravagance is the root-cause of environmental degradation. We have love for amazing cars with powerful engines and huge exhausts and half a kilometre of unleaded petrol per litre, air cons anytime everywhere, huge houses, lots of servants, expensive furniture, real leather, fur, mink and what not. Let us ask ourselves how much water is

wasted when we brush our teeth due to the non-stop flow from the tap?

Flushing the toilet sometimes excessively when just two mugs of water are sufficient is another cause of environment degradation. The main threat to the environment comes from the rapid change in lifestyles and the increase in urbanisation, industrial growth and consequent need for power, minerals, ports and transportation.

The booming trade in rhino horns, elephant tusks, tiger parts, soft shell turtles and many more species is a grim reminder of the immense perils that wildlife and their habitats are facing today.

Our growing urban centres are producing millions of tonnes of solid waste. According to a recent Assocham study, Indian cities annually produce 95 million tonnes of solid wastes, which is likely to increase to 150 million tonnes in the next seven years. A large part of this waste is dumped on land and contains potentially hazardous material that contaminates ground water.

But it is irony that we all would like to see a green world, a clean world,

one where you see natural beauty everywhere you turn, where breathing is a healthy and pleasing thing to do, rather than a necessity you would avoid if you could.

Is it possible to achieve both? Not, at all if we continue the present lifestyle. Now question arises how do we achieve that elusive balance between extravagance and environmentalfriendly living. How do we enjoy our luxuries without feeling guilty, or wondering whether we are contributing to global warming?

By being aware, of course you want to buy that car? That incredibly expensive car that people will stare at every time you take it out. Go ahead, then, buy it. But also include walking in your routine. Sure, if you want to zip on the highway, that car makes perfect sense. Sure, if you want to show off to your gym buddies, take it there. But to the grocery store, I am pretty sure those people at the grocery store could not care less about the car you come into buy milk. Walk to your grocery store. In fact, why do you not chart a mental map? Walk to all those places that are 10-15 minute walk from your house.

When you go shopping, try parking your car five minutes away from the mall and walk. Save that much petrol, and stop that much pollution. Five minutes cannot kill you.

And even if you have heavy bags to carry, you could always come back and drive your car to the entrance to take them in, or ask the shop boys to help you. If for no other reason, they will help you for ten bucks out of your pockets.

Cannot be bothered to turn off all lights and fans when you are not using them? All right, don’t. Can you turn one light off? By turning off that one light, you save that much energy. Too lazy to find a dustbin on the road? All right, don’t. But as you are walking or driving, you will come across garbage heaps on the roadside. Throw your garbage there at least. That way, you are still some civic sense, aren’t you?

Oh yes, go ahead and spend all the money you have on all the luxuries you can buy. Just make sure that you save wherever you can. That is all you need to do. So stop feeling guilty about all the harm you are causing society, and get involved in some any planet-saving activity.

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.

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Monday 05•06•2017

IN FOCUS

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

The Power of Truth

The Morung Express volume XII Issue 152 By moa Jamir

BJP’s food chicanery

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decade ago, during a harvest season, an old-timer was giving a time-tested counsel to some youngsters – for regaining instant strength particularly during strenuous sowing and harvesting period, beef is the best. Economically, it also makes sense as it was the cheapest source of protein. Pork was a luxury then, not readily available as beef.

Over the years, as economic status increases, pork has given away to beef constituting 60% of the animal husbandry import in 2015-16, according to Nagaland Economic Survey 2016-17. But beef still matters. In any village, a celebration is not complete without the usual beef and pork. Pig, cow and mithun meat are the intrinsic and vital feature of any festival – both traditional as well as the modern day festival.

The total requirement for meat, milk and eggs in monetary term, according to the survey, was estimated to be Rs. 2143.92 crores, with shortfall of Rs. 1116.40 crores as the state produces only 52% of the total requirement. The data could be higher given that the meat trade along the inter-state borders as well as in villages are mostly informal or largely undocumented.

Three years back, despite apprehension from various quarters, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was heralded as a whiff of fresh air, a detour from old dispensation, promising 'Achhe din' (good days) through ‘Sabka saath, sabka vikas’ (with everyone, development for all). Presently, the apprehension seems real and Modi’s tenure could be aptly described in 3Ds - Demonetisation, demonisation & demigod. Demonetisation, introduced as a moral imperative against corruption, was implemented haphazardly resulting in loss of many lives and propelling several well-regarded economists to accuse the government of fudging data to present a ‘rosier picture.’

However, it do not stop him from gaining huge electoral mandate especially in symbolic Uttar Pradesh thereafter. While the moral imperative flatters, the other Ds - demonisation & demigod came to his rescue.

Nowhere is the country so polarised in religion, and resultantly on patriotism and food habit. Once, India was known for its pluralism, but it now lays smitten on the face of majoritarian cultural and religious assertion. A religious populism, grounded on the philosophy of utilitarianism - the greatest happiness for the greatest number of people, but with a portentous outcome that would make even its ardent proponents like Jeremy Bentham and John Stuart Mill to roll in the grave.

The most polarising yet is the notification published in the Gazette of India on May 23, 2017 titled, “The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Regulation of Livestock Markets) Rules, 2017.” Passed following a Supreme Court directive to the government to form an inter-ministerial committee to recommend ways of preventing cattle smuggling, basically it says that those who wish to sell cattle — bulls, cows, buffaloes, steers, heifers and camels — may do so only after they formally state that the animals have not been ‘brought to the market for sale for slaughter”(The Hindu).

Expectedly, the notification elicited strong protest and outrage especially from Kerala and West Bengal, whose Chief Ministers described it as “a plan to further the RSS agenda” and “destructive attitude to federal structure” respectively. A Scroll.in report on reaction by political parties in North Eastern states has described the same as “dictatorial,” and “a veiled Hinduvta agenda.” In Meghalaya, a BJP functionary resigned in protest.

However, the Party is singing a different tune in the poll bound NE states. The BJP’s national spokesperson in charge of Meghalaya Nalin Kohli was quoted in media as saying that “A law in a state on cow slaughter is to be decided by the state and not the Centre.” Many a time, a harried Nagaland BJP Chief Visasolie Lhoungu left to defend its Party philosophy of “integral humanism” and vaunting its secular credential, though those at the helm of affairs at the Centre is playing a food and cultural chicanery politics to the hilt.

In Nagaland, while a senior minister was quoted by Hindustan Times as saying, “Nagaland is not going to implement this law related to cow slaughter,” officially the State Government has been maintaining a stoic silence. Politics aside, however, the implementation of the law will have a strong impact on the availability of bovine products in Nagaland, as it is mostly sourced from outside.

For any comment, drop a line to moajamir@live.com

lEfT WING |

Vikas Datta IANS

An audacious African adventure Book Review: The Bad-Ass Librarians of Timbuktu; Author: Joshua Hammer; Publisher: Simon & Schuster; Pages: 280; Price: Rs 399

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fter nature, what some sections of humans get most satisfaction in seeking to destroy is knowledge, in its physical manifestations, irrespective of whether it opposes their view of "truth" or merely presents an alternative. Fortunately, offering hope to us are those who devote all their lives in safeguarding this heritage -- despite daunting risks.

Say, a man who devoted virtually all his adult life to painstakingly collect hundreds of thousands of ancient manuscripts, persistently arranged funds for their preservation and protected them from rabid fundamentalists when they overran the ancient African city of Timbuktu where they were located in 2012.

Behind the successful translocation of this invaluable cache of human experience and wisdom was Abdel Kader Haidara, the son of a renowned scholar and a reluctant archivist initially till he not only grew into the role, but flourished in it.

"In a low-tech operation that seemed quaintly anomalous in the second decade of the twentieth century, he (Haidara) and his team had transported to safety, by river and by road, past hostile jihadi guards and suspicious Malian soldiers, past bandits, attack helicopters and other potentially lethal obstacles, almost all of Timbuktu's 377,000 manuscripts. Not one had been lost en route," journalist and author Joshua Hammer tells us in this thrilling - and inspiring - book.

In his audacious enterprise, Haidara was aided by his nephew who made several hair-raising trips with trunks of the manuscripts, many of Timbuktu's residents who were ready to hide them in their house, and thousands of "smugglers" pressed into service on this high-risk task -- made more dangerous when the French sent their troops in. Though Haidara did not actually participate in the mission, he raised the funds from all around the world that made it possible and otherwise used his influence when and where needed.

But Hammer's work is not only about Haidara's prodigious efforts. It gives us an absorbing but disturbing account of the process of radicalisation, with the case of a key antagonist in this story, who underwent a metamorphosis from Tuareg nationalist to co-opted government man to Islamist terrorist -- and the stultifying but menacing impact of fanatic religiosity on a cosmopolitan society -- in this case, the Al Qaeda in Maghrib's depredations in Mali. This makes it a must-read for many Indians.

C O M M E N T A R Y

Chris Shannahan openDemocracy

Desmond Tutu was right

Who says politics and religion don’t mix?

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t the height of the struggle against Apartheid in South Africa, Archbishop Desmond Tutu confessed that he was confused about which Bible people were reading when they said that religion and politics do not mix. The Archbishop was right: religion and politics do mix, no matter what hardened secularists might assert about a public sphere free from religion. The more important questions to ask are, ‘what kind of religion and what kind of politics?’

In recent years the relationship between religious faith and politics has assumed a growing importance for three reasons. First, faith groups continue to possess significant levels of ‘social capital,’ especially in socially excluded communities. The political theologian Chris Baker calls this ‘religious capital’, or resources in the form of buildings, congregations and community activities. In recent decades politicians on both sides of the Atlantic have recognised that faith groups can help them to deliver (sometimes controversial) social policy agendas.

Second, in an ‘age of austerity,’ faith groups have become increasingly important and visible players in grassroots campaigning on issues as wideranging as low pay, food poverty, racial justice and refugee rights. They have, to a degree, become welfare delivery agencies, filling the gaps previously occupied by the state. Michael Hoelzl and Graham Ward refer to this as “the new visibility of religion.”

Third, this new visibility places the spotlight on the values that drive faithbased action. This question is of vital importance because faith groups can use their religious capital to include or to exclude people, and to challenge injustice or to provide it with a spurious ideological justification.

What role then should religious leaders and people of faith play in politics, and what kind of theological values do those politicians who proclaim themselves to be people of faith communicate and embody? Should they be satisfied with driving the ambulance to the bottom of the cliff, ready to meet those who fall through the cracks of a shrinking welfare state, or as the German theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer once argued, should people of faith ram a spoke into the wheels of injustice?

In the recent US Presidential Election Donald Trump courted Evangelical Christians with his promises on healthcare, abortion and the appointment of ‘pro-life’ Justices to the US Supreme Court. His tactics seemed to work, but the months since his election have seen the rise of a faith-based movement ready to challenge his drive to the right.

The UK is currently in the midst of a similarly-polarised General Election campaign in which the role of faith has also become a source of debate. Tim Farron, the leader of the Liberal Democrats, has been quizzed on his attitude towards homosexuality and abortion.

Whilst Christian attitudes towards sexuality are often more progressive than some people might imagine, Farron is shaped by a form of Evangelicalism that condemns homosexuality as ‘sinful.’ As a person of faith myself I want to challenge such notions of the Christian Gospel. That said, Farron’s voting record as a Member of Parliament has been characterised by clear support for equal rights.

Interestingly, the Conservative leader, Theresa May, has referred to the fact that she is the daughter of a Church of England vicar, and that her Christian upbringing has shaped her political beliefs. But so far, the UK media has not quizzed May on her understanding of Christian values, nor on how her tenure as Conservative Home Secretary and Prime Minister reflect them. The New Statesman recently ran an article entitled, “Just What Kind of Christian is Theresa May?” That raises an important, though much broader, question.

Faith communities have social action built into their DNA, but their approaches vary significantly. Broadly speaking we can speak of ‘caring’ and ‘campaigning.’ Shaped by a ‘love your neighbour’ ethic of social responsibility, the dominant approach to faithbased social action continues to be the ‘caring’ approach that’s exemplified by soup runs, befriending projects and foodbanks. Such an approach has an honourable history, but it tends not to challenge the political status quo.

Shaped by a more radical religious tradition, the ‘campaigning’ approach asserts that social justice is a more fundamental theological value than consensual social responsibility. Such activism is generally far less

widely welcomed by the political class because it asks fundamental questions about the way things are done, and because it underpins campaigns for farreaching, systemic social change.

Two distinct theological frameworks characterise these differing approaches to faith-based activism.

‘Caring’ social action arises from theologies of the common good, which argue that, as a result of our common humanity, all government policies should be judged on the extent to which they enhance the well-being of the most vulnerable members of society. Such an approach seeks to balance the needs of the included and the excluded, but it doesn’t assert the need for fundamental structural changes in society.

By contrast, ‘campaigning’ social action, whilst committed to building a society that is characterised by a shared commitment to the common good, goes much further. Such activism is, if only implicitly, shaped by the core values of liberation theology, which emerged first in Latin America in the 1970s. Exemplified by the work of Gustavo Gutiérrez, liberation theology argues that in an unjust world, a God who has created all people in the divine image necessarily has a ‘preferential option for the poor’ and oppressed, and that as a consequence, Christian social action must be characterised by support for that option too.

Such social action argues for deepseated structural changes that enable the building of a more egalitarian society. So when campaigners knock on people’s doors asking for their vote, they need to ask, ‘Do your policies put the few or the many at the front of the queue? How will your policies trans-

form toxic debates about immigration into a narrative that treasures our diversity as a strength, and not as a problem that needs to be solved?’

There is no way of knowing how Theresa May’s upbringing as a vicar’s daughter shapes her internal wrestling with the kind of challenge that Jesus lays at the feet of his disciples in Matthew 24:31-46: ‘Have you fed the hungry, welcomed the stranger, and clothed the naked?’ We cannot see into her heart. All we can do is reflect on the impact of her actions as Home Secretary and Prime Minister. However, it is reasonable to pose a number of sample questions in the light of the forthcoming General Election that get at the relationship between faith and politics.

First, how might refusing to allow child refugees from ‘the jungle’ camp in Calais to settle in the UK, or the implicit xenophobia unleashed by the 2016 Brexit referendum, exemplify an ethic of ‘welcoming the stranger’?

Second, how might the increasing resort to foodbanks by NHS nurses or the withdrawing of free school lunches for Primary school children embody a commitment to ‘feeding the hungry’?

Third, how can we square the doubling of homelessness since 2010 or the massive rise in child poverty with ‘clothing the naked’?

Senior political leaders who consciously self-identify as people of faith would do well to reflect on these questions and others like them when they look in the mirror. Tutu was right: religion and politics do mix, but the more important question is this—does faith give rise to a commitment to building an inclusive and egalitarian society, or is it simply a cynical ploy to get elected?

Why Thinking Beyond Money Is Vital for Solving the Poverty Puzzle Development agencies should consider nature and culture when creating strategies to alleviate global poverty L. Jamila Haider & Steven J. Lade

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The Wire

ccording to the OECD, development aid recently reached a new peak of $US 142.6 billion a year. The Conversation But international assistance that aims to alleviate poverty can have undesirable, and often unintended consequences on both nature and culture.

And how to alleviate poverty without degrading the environment and cultural values remains a significant global challenge.

Trapped in our thinking In a new review paper in the journal Science Advances, we call into question a cornerstone of development aid: the “poverty trap” and its “big push” solution.

The poverty trap is a concept widely used to describe situations in which poverty persists under a certain asset threshold through self-maintaining mechanisms. In other words, it’s the vicious cycle of poverty, where the poor get poorer because they cannot accumulate savings or have enough energy to work.

The term, which was used by both Jeffrey Sachs and Paul Collier in 2005 to describe households or countries stuck in low-levels of economic wellbeing, was central to the UN’s Millennium Development Goals.

The “big push” – one of the earli-

est theories of development economics – is a still-popular one-size-fits-all approach to alleviating poverty at community and household levels, despite its known limitations. The basic idea of this theory is that it takes a big coordinated push of investment to allow economies to take off beyond a critical point (as defined by the poverty trap).

The two concepts, as you can see, go hand in hand.

But there’s an issue: though the poverty trap is a prominent way to conceptualise persistent poverty, its strictly economic view of poverty has thus far ignored the roles of nature and culture.

With 78% of the world’s poorest people living in rural areas, development aid is often targeted at financial and technological farming solutions.

Development agencies encourage farmers to grow single cash crops, or monocultures, such as genetically modified cotton in India, that they can sell to rise out of poverty.

This strategy has had mixed results and, in some cases, serious ecological and social consequences that can reinforce poverty.

Modelling alleviation strategies In our paper, we provide a way to extend poverty-trap thinking to more fully include the links between finan-

cial well-being, nature and culture.

Our new approach identifies three types of solutions to alleviate poverty.

The first is the so-called standard “big push”, to tip countries “over the barrier” so they have better-functioning economies. The second is to lower the barrier. And this could include everything from training farmers to changing behaviour and practices.

These two classifications form the backbone of current aid strategies.

But we introduce a third classification, which we call transforming the system, with the goal of rethinking the traditional intervention strategy.

Using theoretical multi-dimensional models of different relationships between poverty and the environment at the household or community levels, we tested the effectiveness of these poverty alleviation strategies.

For example, a popular and empirically supported narrative is that poor people degrade their environment, but less well-known empirical evidence shows how poor people do not disproportionately deteriorate the environment. They are often stewards of nature and create and maintain features such as agricultural biodiversity.

Take for example, the Pamir Mountains of Tajikistan and Afghanistan, which are characterised

WRITE-WING

by high biological and cultural (aka biocultural) diversity. In a context like this, people may be poor in monetary terms but care for an incredible diversity of agricultural crops with their rich ecological knowledge and cultural practices.

And the diversity of traditional seeds may, in turn, help make them resilient at a regional level to shocks.

In such places, the conventional push “over the barrier” to increase food production (through improved seeds or fertilisers) may risk losing biodiversity or traditional knowledge.

Our models show how a transformation strategy in which endogenous actions change the status quo could in some contexts alleviate poverty without serious consequences for nature and culture. This possibility creates space for currently underrepresented narratives of development, such as agro-ecology or food sovereignty.

Transformative change The results of the models show that conventional development interventions that ignore nature and culture can reinforce poverty; transformative change may be necessary in those contexts and asset inputs may be effective in others.

These results are synthesised in the “poverty cube”, which shows how we brought together the multi-dimensionality of poverty, different intervention pathways and diverse contexts.

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.

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PERSPECTIVE

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The Inescapable Destiny of Man

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hen God created man and woman and placed them in the Garden of Eden, everything was perfect, complete and beautiful. There was nothing found wanting by the first man and woman because God Himself had made everything ready for them to exist there with total joy, happiness and contentment without any worry, tension or trouble. Adam and Eve were not required to do anything there to gain or earn to sustain themselves because God Himself had given everything free of cost for them to have and enjoy to their hearts’ content without any restrictions. However, there was one thing which they were debarred from doing – they were debarred from eating the fruits of the tree situated in the middle of the garden.

So when Adam and Eve rebelled against God by eating the forbidden fruit, God had no other option but to chase them away from the beautiful garden. And as He chased them away, God cursed them by saying that from then onwards, the man would have to toil, labor, work and sweat to feed his stomach because he and his wife had fail to realize the magnitude of the love, freedom, power and wonder that was made available to them in the garden. Yes, they miserably failed to value the unimaginable love, compassion,

purpose, plan and power of God. Thus with the proclamation of God that they now had to work, toil and labor to stay alive began the destiny of man with the concept, idea and practice of what we call ‘Work’.

‘Work’ is intrinsically linked to the very survival of man and his society. Besides, it is work that determines the status, standard and worth of a man in his society. Work may assume different forms and nature in keeping with time, society, environment and climate.

Works that were once considered as very vital and basic have today taken a backseat due to the advancement made in the field of science and technology. The advent of machines into the arena has indeed made very easy and simple many works that once required immense energy, power, strategy and multiple numbers of laborers. The advancement made in the field of science, technology, methodology and techniques has today altogether turned upside down the very nature and colour of many works. With advancements made in the field of science and technology, work is assuming a more mental nature rather than a physical one. In the olden times, everything was done by the bare hands of men and through his sweat and labor. But today machines, technology and the human mind are slowly altering this idea and practice of ‘Work’.

After God set the condition that man has to sweat and labor to keep himself alive, work somehow took centre-stage in the life of man and his society. If a man wants to eat, he has to go out and search for food because food will not come to him.

This was perhaps the first work of man. As men evolved into societies

and assumed social, economic and political obligations, the nature and number of works also multiplied.

Yes, the importance and the implications that ‘Work’ has in our lives can neither be overlooked nor denied. It is our earnings through work that we sustain ourselves because nothing comes free in our material-driven society. It is also our work which determines our status in the society. A person cannot do everything but I believe there is always something which one can do. There are jobs which everybody wants to do but which cannot be done by everybody. Some people are born with special talents and inclinations to do special and extraordinary things.

To live a life of honor and respect and a life that is fruitful and prolific, one needs to cultivate the right attitude towards this very indispensable matter of survival and society called ‘Work’. Today many Nagas do not take pride in the work they do. Our forefathers not only believed in the idea of ‘Dignity of Labor’ but also demonstrated it everyday to their children through their lives and lifestyles. Our forefathers (though ignorant, primitive and illiterate) knew that it was a shame to eat without working. They did not depend on others to do their work for them. Rather they happily carried out all their daily chores that were necessary for their survival.

But what has become of the present day Nagas? We say we are unemployed; we say the government cannot give us job; we say we are qualified but cannot find work and then we spend the whole day watching television, playing computer games and touching mobile handsets. Can we expect a fruitful

and productive society out of such people? Certainly not! Many Naga parents spend their whole lifetimes and earnings rearing and educating their children in the hope that they would one day become responsible citizens and make contributions to the society. But today the children of many such parents are sitting idle at home surviving on the meager pensions of their old retired parents because they think there is no work.

But even though they are surviving on the meager pensions of their old parents, they still want to use the latest handsets and drive the latest cars. Never for a moment do they bother to think what might be going through the hearts and minds of their hapless parents. And if you ask them why they are in such a frustrating situation, they would be quick to blame the government, their upbringing, their parents and everything and anything that they can think of. In this way they become more and more of a liability everyday to the society in general and their near and dear ones in particular. This scenario is making many aged and hapless parents go early to their graves with a heavy heart because their children upon whom they spent all their lives and earnings could not become an asset for them and the society.

Now in the beginning when God Himself had declared that we have to work to survive and thrive in this world, there is no way through which we can escape from this destiny. So I believe many Nagas need to view this concept and practice of work through new lenses. When we say work, many Nagas take it to mean government jobs. But as we all know, our government is no longer in a position to give jobs to all edu-

The ‘Water-Employment-Migration’ Explosive Nexus

Water Scarcity – One of the greatest challenges of our time. (FAO Photo) Baher Kamal Inter Press Service

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ater–ever ybody talks about it, warns against its growing scarcity, excessive waste, the impact of climate change, the frequent severe droughts and so on. Now, a global action network with over 3,000 partner organisations in 183 countries comes to unveil the dangerous nexus between water, employment and migration, in particular in the Mediterranean region.

The Water-Employment-Migration nexus triggers a multi-faceted crisis posing major socio-political, economic and environmental risks in several regions (Africa, Asia, Europe), with the Mediterranean being in the eye of the cyclone, warns in fact the Global Water Partnership (GWP).

The Mediterranean is not only among the most arid regions in the world–parts of the region face a persistent economic crisis, socio-political instability, conflicts and largescale migratory movements, often under dramatic conditions, putting further stress on the available water resources, adds this global network, whose partners work to make water a top policy priority.

Moreover, a recent GWP-led Regional Roundtable in Tunis highlighted several pressing facts, such

East and North of Africa (MENA) to migrate and seek for a better future away from home.

Youth unemployment in the region is at a global high, and it is the main driver for both males and females to migrate, GWP informed, adding that female youth is in an even more disadvantaged position suffering the triple burden of gender, age and skills mismatch.

Alarming Facts No wonder. The leading United Nations agency in the fields of food and agriculture has recently revealed a set of alarming key facts about the dramatic water shortage in the region, specifically in the Middle East and North of Africa countries.

In fact, the Near East and North Africa fresh water resources are among the lowest in the world: they have decreased by two thirds during last 40 years and are expected to fall over 50 per cent by 2050, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has reported.

Should these facts not be enough, the specialised agency also informs that 90 per cent of the total land in the region lies within arid, semi/arid and dry sub/humid areas, while 45 per cent of the total agricultural area is exposed to salinity, soil nutrient depletion and wind water erosion.

At the same time, agriculture in the region uses approximately 85

ter resources in the region flows from outside national and regional boundaries.

Add to all the above that fact that groundwater, which has become a significant source of water across the region, and which is the basis for the rapid growth of new agricultural economies in the Arabian Peninsula, is now also experiencing significant depletion, according to FAO. “The considerable degradation of water quality is accelerating, along with competition for water between all sectors.”

The cause of higher temperatures, droughts, floods and soil degradation, climate change will impose a further threat to the region’s water resources and food security,” the UN agency warns, adding that the decrease in production that this situation is likely to cause, could contribute to increasing the region’s current dependence on cereal imports.

The Needed Linkages Experts from 13 institutions and organisations across 10 countries gathered in GWP-led Regional Roundtable in Tunis last December to elaborate on the linkages among water insecurity, enduring unemployment and increasing migration in the Mediterranean, emphasising also on youth and gender challenges.

The Roundtable discussions made evident that education is

have the skills desired for employers.

“Designing tailored training programs to bridge this gap can gradually help decrease the unemployment ratio in the region, and improve female employability. Such training and educational programs will be among areas of focus in the development of the regional program on Water-Employment-Migration.”

Furthermore, the need to assist national and regional authorities in setting the needed institutional and regulatory ground for related successful measures was pinpointed, according to GWP. “Development of strategies and action plans and/or operational mainstreaming of related considerations in existing national processes should assist in addressing the root causes of unemployment and migration and effectively contribute to water security in the Mediterranean. Synergies should be sought with neighbouring regions/countries that are migration-origins (in Africa, Asia) as well as destination countries (in Europe).”

The GWP network provides knowledge and builds capacity to improve water management at all levels.

The Water We “Eat” Meanwhile, FAO also informs that the ‘water we eat’ daily through the food we consume is much more than what we drink, FAO informs, while providing some examples: Did you know depending on the diet, we need 2 000 to 5 000 litres of water to produce the food consumed daily by one person?

“As the global population is estimated to reach 10 billion people by 2050, demand for food is expected to surge by more than 50 per cent.

Evidence suggests that two-thirds of the world population could be living in water-stressed countries by 2025 if current consumption patterns continue.”

Agriculture is both a major cause and casualty of water scarcity. Farming accounts for almost 70 per cent of all water withdrawals, and up to 95 per cent in some developing countries, the UN specialised agency reports.

Water scarcity is expected to intensify as a result of climate change, it adds, while informing that it is predicted to bring about increased temperatures across the world in the range of 1.6°c to as much as 6°c by 2050.

“For each 1 degree of global warming, 7 per cent of the global population will see a decrease of 20 per cent or more in renewable water resources.

Last but not leas, the UN agency also informs that each year, onethird of world food production is either lost or wasted — that translates into a volume of agriculture water wasted equal to around three times

cated ones like in the past where a bachelor degree was enough to make one sit in a chair and drive an NLG vehicle. The time has now come for us to explore new areas and new possibilities. In doing this, we should steadfastly hold on to the fundamental virtues like hard-work, patience, realizing one’s strength and weakness, dignity of labour, learning to do one’s own work with one’s own hands rather than depending on others, learning to start small instead of expecting big and instant profit, learning to bounce back even in the midst of loss, defeat, misfortune and discouragement etc, learning to make optimum use of one’s times, learning to endure and invest in the things that really matter rather than spending on and pursuing temporary profits and meaningless glamour and learning to have an unflinching faith in the almighty.

Yes, if someone wants to live a life that is honorable, admirable, respectable, fruitful and productive and that can leave an impressive legacy on his children, society and posterity, one has to stand up and confront the idea and practice of work rather than trying to run away from it by citing this and that reason. A true man is one who is able to stand on his own feet and feed himself and his family and make contributions to his society. Yes, everybody needs parental support and providence during their formative years. But you can be a true man only if you learn to come out of your parents’ shadow and learn to face and confront the society with the true fighting spirit rather than being a burden and liability on your ageing parents and family. Your parents will happily go to their graves with a

contented heart if they see that you are an asset and not a liability to the society. What is required of you is to read between the lines and learn to identify the spots and areas where you think you can find something to invest your time, energy and resources to make a living for yourself.

I think God has already equipped you with that. Only if you would just look around with a clean, enthusiastic and vigorous heart you will find that there are countless opportunities which you can call work. Even if you are unable to find something that can give you instant currency notes, there are still many opportunities through which you can spread happiness or make a difference in your life and also in others’ lives, so one can begin with engaging in these because these non-remunerative works can be used as training grounds and stepping stones for remunerative works.

If you cannot do what you like ....you have got to learn to like what you do … because attitude also plays its part on our lives. It is said that “seeing is believing” but the opposite “believing is seeing” can also turn out to be true. Yes, you have to first believe something before you can see it. If you are not working or engaged in any productive activity, you are providing a playground to the devil to play his games on you because an idle mind is the devil’s workshop. So if you are not working but still eating out of others’ plates and others’ wealth, remember that you have become an insult to God because you are denying your God-assigned destiny to work and eat and therefore you have no honour, no respect and you are a shame and a burden to your family and society….

The Morung Express POLL RESULTS

Do you believe that formation of new political parties offer potential for positive social change in Nagaland? Why? 71%

17% YES

12% NO

Some of those who voted YES had this to say: • Yes, any political party with good ideology and principle can bring positive impact to situation like we are facing in NLA where there is no opposition to check wrong policies of governance and corruptions in Nagaland.

• Yes, every new party creates a new opportunity to prove their worth to society. It is also a fact that people are tired of being cheated and are tired of new parties being formed for the sake of political convenience. The new parties will have to prove themselves to the people.

• Yes, new political parties can change the game, and especially the younger generation should step up.

• Yes if they have the intention and common sense to do so because all the existing parties have betrayed the hope of the people. It is a good opportunity for the new ones.

Some of those who voted NO had this to say: • No, Not at all. So long as their motive is self-preservation and selfinterest, there will be no change in Nagaland. This is the simple fact.

• No way not when the same bunch of players are involved at the moment just old wine in a new bottle. A totally new party with none of the baggages of the past and hidden agendas is needed to catch the imagination of the youth who will be playing a crucial role this election.

• No. Same old concept and corrupted person with same old mentality and mindset, they are not a school and college going student now to learn. So how can

OTHERS

• Same old people with different nomenclature.... It will be same way.

• No way...the prodigal son returned, but with the same dress on.

• Same OLD Wine with lots of Alcohol Contents in a NEW Bottle • No because the party may be new but its the same old same old people. It makes sense only when the people are also new.

• No. It's another game of political parties to fool the public.

• No. this shows move of our division instead of more unity.

• No way.....Its a just a game played on us for their gain. I will rather not vote my entire life.

• It's really a controversial issue when it comes to formation of new parties. Everyone wants to be the head in Nagaland. This will never bring any positive change.

Some of those who voted OTHERS had this to say: • Our leaders are not serious. They are only playing games with each other. Nagaland has become their playground for them.

Don’t they see how bad our situation has become? They are not thinking about the future.

• Irrelevant question. Same as a person wearing a new dress.

• Yes and No. Yes, because if a new party arises with genuine manifesto and shows principled stand in word and deed, I believe there's hope for a better Nagaland. No, if it's a case of old fermented wine in a new bottle.

• Difficult to say because they have not been tested yet. At the same time its the same old people.

• Its time for new faces and it is also time for the public to start electing the right people.

8

MOnDAY 05•06•2017

INDIA

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

India to take up road & highway ‘Women to be allowed projects abroad: Nitin Gadkari in combat role in Army’

New Delhi, JuNe 4 (iANS): The government is planning to launch a dedicated international subsidiary of the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to take up roads and highway projects abroad, particularly in South Asia.

Simultaneously, India is also looking forward to setting up joint ventures (JVs) for road construction in neighbouring countries.

Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari said his ministry was considering a proposal to launch "NHAI International" for undertaking roads and highway construction projects abroad. Experts say that such a subsidiary could be in the form of a special purpose vehicle (SPV) which will collaborate with foreign companies to bag international projects.

The minister said In-

Bank union urges Modi to fill workman/officer bank director vacancies CheNNAi, JuNe 4 (iANS): The All India Bank Employees' Association (AIBEA) on Sunday sought Prime Minister Narendra Modi's personal intervention to fill up the vacancies of workman/officer directors on bank boards. In a letter to Modi, AIBEA General Secretary C.H.Venkatachalam said the posts of workman and officer directors in the banks that have fallen vacant from 2014, 2015 and 2016 still remain vacant and there is no representation of employees and officers on the boards of all the banks.

He noted that they had met Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on three occasions with our representation and were assured that the matter is under process and would be expedited "but still nothing has happened so far for the past two years", he said in the letter.

Ve n k a t a c h a l a m said the unions have already submitted the panel of names for appointment as Workman/Officer director and the bank managements have also sent in their recommendations.

"We learn that all other formalities have also been completed but yet the appointments are withheld by the Government," he said.

Ve n k a t a c h a l a m told IANS that there were 19 government banks which did not have workman directors and 20 did not have officer directors on their boards.

dia is keen to participate in road construction in neighbouring countries like Iran, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Sri Lanka through joint ventures. "We are promoting road construction joint ventures in Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka has already agreed to allot a couple of road projects in northern Sri Lanka to us," Road Transport and Highways Minister Gadkari told IANS in an interview.

"We have plans to develop road projects in Iran as part of the development of Chabahar Port-related projects." On the domestic front, the minister has set his sights on achieving a target of construction of 40 km of roads per day in the next year or so.

"If I could achieve 23 km per day from the rock bottom 2 km per day in

three years, there is no reason I could not reach close to my next target of 40 km per day in the next one year or so," Gadkari said.

"Projects like road and highway construction, including tunnels, overbridges and roadside amenities and other related projects also depends on various other factors like weather conditions and local issues."

As per various estimates, India has one of the longest road networks across the world at over five million kilometres.

The network consists of national highways, state highways, major district roads and rural roads.

Out of the total road network, national highways and expressways account for only two per cent, but are used to transport more than 40 per cent of all goods and passenger

traffic. The slow average speeds on these highways due to high road density and non-availability of access-control measures allows cargo laden trucks to travel only 225-250 km per day. The overall target is to increase the national highways length to two lakh kilometres but delays in land acquisition and a famine of private investment has slowed down progress.

For 2016-17, 23 km of roads were constructed per day, up from 16.6 km a day in 2015-16.

In the Union Budget 2017-18, the central government allotted Rs 64,000 crore ($9.55 billion) to NHAI for roads and highways and Rs 27,000 crore ($4.03 billion) for the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) that is focused on rural roads.

However, road and highway construction did

not gather pace automatically, as the minister recalled three years back there were 400 projects which were stuck due to problems relating to land acquisition, environment and forest clearances, and rail over bridges.

"There was an atmosphere of gloom and disillusionment. Contractors were unwilling to continue with the projects and bank NPAs (non-performing assets) were piling up," Gadkari said. "I encouraged all the stakeholders and organised face-to-face meetings with the state government officials, bank managers, NHAI officials and the contractors.

"In the last three years we have collectively resolved most of the knotty issues, cleared road blocks and put the projects back on track. There is hardly Chief of Army Staff, General Bipin Rawat paying homage at the mortal remains of GNR. any project which is stuck." The Manivannan G., in New Delhi on June 4. (PIB Photo)

'Consuming pre-used products curbs millions tonne of CO2 emission in a year

New Delhi, JuNe 4 (iANS): By promoting reuse of pre-owned items, an e-commerce website has succeeded in directly curbing 6.6 million tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) emission -- equivalent to that absorbed by 10.5 million teak trees their lifetime, according to a report by a government-supported environment organisation.

The report by the Centre for Environment Education (CEE), released on Sunday ahead of the World Environment Day (June 5), says OLX India directly curbed this volume of emissions through about ten million transactions across 11 categories of items in 2016-17.

The categories cov-

ered include cars, mobile phones, refrigerators, televisions, computers and laptops, sofas, tablets, cameras, books and clothes and in order to quantify the emissions, all stages in their life-cycle, from raw material procurement till it reaches the user, were taken into account.

The OLX-CEE report claims the total transactions of the pre-owned books have saved as much CO2 as produced in 110 round trips between Delhi and Mumbai and of computers did as much as would have been emitted in 19,237 round trips between Delhi and San Francisco.

As much as 500 kg of

CO2 emissions were saved each time a used TV was bought or sold and 2,000 kg in buying used cars.

According to the CEEOLX report, the amount of CO2 emissions curbed is equivalent to that done by the Delhi Metro in 12.5 years. "This World Environment Day, with its theme 'Connecting People to Nature' is a moment when we should realise how nature works in a cyclical way with no waste. OLX, through creating a modern platform for sharing and reusing, is a step in this direction of building a sustainable society," said CEE Director Kartikeya V. Sarabhai.

"Environment is not the first thing people worry

about because the ill-effects are not immediately evident. But let us recall the time a few months ago when people in Delhi and areas in north India were wearing masks, schools were shut, and we were gasping for clean air," said OLX India CEO Amarjit Singh Batra.

OLX stressed that buying and selling pre-owned items is an easy way to reduce the carbon footprint.

"Every time one uses OLX, the earth becomes a little bit greener. Because every time one buys on OLX, one less item gets produced, lowering CO2 emissions that are suffocating our environment and lungs," said OLX.

New Delhi, JuNe 4 (PTi): In a transformational move, the Indian Army is all set to open up combat positions for women, a gender barrier broken by only a few countries globally.

Army Chief Gen Bipin Rawat said the process to allow women in combat role, currently an exclusive domain of men, is moving fast and initially women will be recruited for positions in military police.

"I am looking at women coming as jawans. I am going to start it soon. Firstly, we will start with women as military police jawans," he said, giving details of the move to allow women in the male-dominated positions in the Army.

Currently women are allowed in a number of select areas including in medical, legal, educational, signals and engineering wings of the Army but combat roles are kept off limit

India's heaviest rocket with GSAT-19 all set for maiden flight

CheNNAi, JuNe 4 (iANS): India's heaviest rocket -- Geosynchronous Satellite Launch VehicleMark III (GSLV-Mk III) -- is all set for its maiden flight into space along with a communications satellite on Monday evening as its countdown of 25 hours and 30 minutes began at 3.58 p.m. on Sunday, an official of the Indian space agency said.

The rocket, weighing 640 tonnes and standing 43.43 metres tall, will blast off from the second launch pad at India's rocket port at Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh, around 105 km from here.

It will carry a 3,136-kg GSAT-19 communications satellite -- the heaviest to be lifted by an Indian rocket till date -- to an altitude of around 179 km above the Earth after just over 16 minutes into the flight.

On June 2, the Mission Readiness Review Committee and Launch Authorisation Board had cleared the countdown for GSLV Mk-III D1/GSAT-19 mission. The rocket's main and bigger cryogenic en-

Panoramic view of GSLV-Mk III-D1 scheduled to be launched on June 5.(PTI Photo)

gine has been developed by space scientists here.

The mission's success will enable India to launch four-tonne satellites on its own rocket instead of pay-

ing huge amounts of money to foreign space agencies to execute the operation.

According to Indian Space Research Organisation, GSAT-19 with a life

span of 10 years is a multibeam satellite that carries Ka and Ku band forward and return link transponders and geostationary radiation spectrometer.

"The rocket's design carrying capacity is four tonnes. The payload will be gradually increased in future flights of the GSLV Mk-III," K. Sivan, Director, Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, told IANS earlier.

The Indian space agency had flown a similar rocket without the cryogenic engine but with 3.7-tonne payload in 2014 mainly to test its structural stability while in flight and the aerodynamics.

S. Somanath, Director, Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre, told IANS that the inputs of the 2014 mission enabled the ISRO to reduce the rocket load by around 20 per cent.

Interestingly, GSLV-Mk III at around 43 metres is slightly shorter than Mk-II version that is around 49 metres tall.

"The new rocket may be slightly short but has more punch power," an ISRO official told IANS. India presently has two rockets -- the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle and GSLVMk II -- with a lift-off mass of 415 tonnes and a carrying capacity of 2.5 tonnes.

for them due to operational concerns and logistical issues.

The Army Chief said he was ready to recruit women as jawans and the matter is being taken up with the government.

"We have already started the process," Gen Rawat told PTI in an exclusive interaction recently.

He said women will have to show grit and strength in taking up challenges in combat role and shattering the glass ceiling.

Very few countries including Germany, Australia, Canada, the US, Britain, Denmark, Finland, France , Norway, Sweden and Israel have allowed women in combat roles.

The roles of military police include policing the cantonments and army establishments, prevent breach of rules and regulations by soldiers, maintaining movement of soldiers

as well as logistics during peace and war, handling prisoners of war and extending aid to civil police whenever required.

Creating history, the Indian Air Force, last year, had inducted three women as fighter pilots, less than a year after the government decided to open the fighter stream for women on an experimental basis.

A decision on having women as fighter pilots will be taken after evaluating performance of the three women -- Avani Chaturvedi, Bhawana Kanth and Mohana Singh who are now part of IAF's fighter squadron.

The Indian Navy is currently deliberating on a policy on having women onboard the ships. The Navy allows women in various other segments including in legal, logistics, naval architecture and engineering departments.

CPI-M for regular discussion on EVMs between EC, parties

New Delhi, JuNe 4 (iANS): Dubbing the June 3 EVM challenge of the Election Commission as "too restrictive", the CPI-M on Sunday called for regular discussions between the poll panel and various political parties on the design choices of the voting machines.

The party also asserted that such challenges and counter-challenges were not conducive to building of confidence in the electoral process in the country.

"If the EC exercise was for increasing confidence of political parties in the EVMs, it was too restrictive," the Communist Party of India-Marxist said in a statement here. "The challenge, counter-challenge and hackathons -- as is being done by certain parties and the EC -- builds an adversarial atmosphere that is not conducive to building confidence in the electoral process," it added.

"While we can accept EC's contention that EVM hardware should not be changed, as this will make it a different machine, we are unable to appreciate why a physical examination of the EVM should not have included attaching instruments and generating a better understanding of EVM and its communication within its various subunits," it said. During the EVM challenge, a technical team of the CPI-M wanted to attach hardware probes to the EVM motherboard to develop a better understanding of and potential for hacking of the EVM. "The EC disallowed this request. Under such restrictive conditions, the team was unable to make an independent assessment of the Electronic Voting Machines, and hence suggest technical improvements or other safeguards," it said. The CPI-M team held detailed technical discussions with the poll panel's technical expert committee where it was informed about how it has addressed various concerns regarding the EVM. "Prima facie, these are robust precautions, but without a detailed technical examination, as asked for by the CPI-M's technical team, this remains to be independently verified," the Left party said. "The CPI-M believes that technical discussions between the EC, political parties and other stakeholders on current and future EVM design choices should be held on a regular basis.

MHA tells forces on UN duties: No excuse for sexual abuse

New Delhi, JuNe 4 (PTi): ‘No excuse for sexual abuse’ is the stern warning of the Union home ministry to paramilitary personnel serving in UN peacekeeping missions in perhaps its first such order on the serious issue to the central forces. The ministry’s direction, which even warned of dismissal and imprisonment for any sexual misconduct, came following an advisory of the United Nations in the wake of reports that some UN peacekeepers allegedly ran a child sex ring in Haiti over a 10-year period and none were ever jailed.

According to officials, no incident has been reported anywhere about the involvement of Indian paramilitary personnel in any sexual abuse case during UN peacekeeping duties.

However, as a “precautionary

measure”, the ministry decided to direct the chiefs of CRPF, BSF, CISF and ITBP to ensure that each of the personnel working under the UN flag abroad carry a ‘No Excuse’ pocket card, issued by the global body against sexual exploitation and abuse for the personnel deployed in UN missions.

“At all times we must treat the local population with respect and dignity. Sexual exploitation and abuse are unacceptable behaviour and prohibited conduct for all UN and affiliated personnel,” the pocket card says. Sexual exploitation and abuse threatens the lives of people that UN is to serve and protect, and sexual exploitation and abuse undermines discipline and damages the reputation of the UN, it says.

There is around 6,000 paramilitary personnel belonging to Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) and IndoTibetan Border Police (ITBP) deployed in different UN peace keeping duties in Liberia, Haiti and Congo.

They are deployed on the rotational basis for a period of one year.

“So far, no incident has been reported anywhere about the involvement of Indian paramilitary personnel in sexual abuse case. But the pocket card was issued following an advisory of the United Nations as a precautionary measure,” a home ministry official said, A UN report released in March this year has said action against one such allegation against an army soldier related to

2013 is pending with India.

A 2015 report of the global body had reportedly said that the Indian contingent — among the largest in UN Missions –has the least number of sexual misconduct cases. The Indian Army had punished two of its soldiers for sexual misconduct during UN missions in two African countries in 2010-2013.

The ‘No Excuse’ card is expected to be carried at all times by all deployed UN civilian, police and military personnel. Commanding officers in the field missions will periodically verify that all personnel have these cards in their possession.

“It is strictly prohibited to have sex with anyone in exchange for money, employment, preferential treatment, goods or services, whether or

not prostitution is legal in the host country. “It is strictly prohibited to have any sexual activity with anyone under the age of 18 years regardless of the age of majority or age of consent locally. It is strictly prohibited to engage in any other form of sexually humiliating, degrading or exploitative behaviour,” the pocket card says.

‘Silence is no excuse’ is another key message to the security personnel.

“If you have knowledge of sexual exploitation and abuse, you must report it to the commander or manager of your unit or the mission conduct and discipline team,” it says.

The paramilitary personnel have been told that involvement of any act of sexual exploitation and abuse will be investigated and prosecuted if warranted.

“Any proven act of sexual exploitation and abuse by others will result in measures that can include but are not limited to suspension, immediate repatriation, dismissal, imprisonment and a ban from future UN employment,” according to the government order. The paramilitary personnel have also been told that all victims of sexual exploitation and abuse are entitled to safe and confidential assistance.

If the victim is a child, special considerations for the protection and support to the child are needed. The victim has to be treated with respect and dignity, and directed or assisted for support to the nearest UN office, the conduct and discipline team or Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA) focal point.

MondAY 05•06•2017

WORLD/EntERtainmEnt

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

9

Unsure of US, Asia builds new alliances to counter China

SINGAPORE, JUNE 4 (REUtERS): Several Asian nations are seeking to bolster informal alliances among themselves, regional diplomats and officials said, unsettled by growing fears that the United States could not be relied on to maintain a buffer against China’s assertiveness.

Countries including Australia, Japan, India and Vietnam are quietly stepping up discussions and co-operation, although taking care they do not upset Beijing, the diplomats said. No one was yet talking about a formal alliance.

Inaugurating the weekend Shangri-La Dialogue, the region’s premier security forum, Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull said: “In this brave new world we cannot rely on great powers to safeguard our interests.

“We have to take responsibility for our own security and prosperity, while recognising we are stronger when

sharing the burden of collective leadership with trusted partners and friends.”

His comments resonated through the threeday meeting that ended on Sunday.

Regional officials and analysts said there was growing mistrust of the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump, especially because of his withdrawal from the TransPacific Partnership (TPP) on trade and then, last week, the pullout from the Paris climate accord.

Many fear Trump is signalling a deeper retreat from a traditional U.S. security role that has underpinned the region for decades.

U.S. Defence Secretary Jim Mattis told the Singapore forum that Washington remained committed to the region and insisted it would oppose China’s militarisation of the disputed South China Sea, one of Asia’s most volatile hotspots.

U.S. Secretary of Defense James Mattis (5th L) poses for a picture with ASEAN defence leaders after a meeting on the sidelines of the 16th IISS Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore June 4. (REUTERS)

Regional officials said they were worried by Trump’s unpredictability and concerned that his warm praise of Chinese President Xi Jinping after their first summit meeting in April would influence any decisions on Asia.

“We trust Mattis and we trust (U.S. Pacific Commander Harry) Harris but at the very top? The trust gap is very wide,” said one senior Asian military officer.

“Our fear is driven by the reality that it is only

the U.S. that is powerful enough to set red lines with China.”

Malaysian Defence Minister Hishammuddin Hussein said Asia was still trying to figure out Trump’s policy in the region.

“I would like to know very clearly what are the true intentions of the new administration,” he said.

erated co-operation among partners, but he also said he welcomed Mattis’ reassurances.

“Countries look at the landscape and you adjust, and that’s what good leadership does...you put yourself in a position so if there are changes, you are not caught completely offguard,” Ng said at a news conference on Sunday.

FIVE POWERS Australia, New ZeaIn broad terms, Singa- land, Britain, Malaysia and pore Defence Minister Ng Singapore re-energised Eng Hen confirmed accel- their Five Powers Defence

Agreement at the weekend, with officials saying they wanted to better link new military capabilities, as well as boosting counterterrorism efforts and maritime security.

Tim Huxley, a regional security expert, wrote in a newspaper article last week that the five countries needed to improve the inter-operability of their militaries as the regional balance of power shifted.

While China was becoming richer and more

assertive, U.S. strategy and policy had entered “a period of, at best, uncertainty under President Donald Trump”, he said.

“Amid this uncertainty, most states in the region are seeking to increase their military capabilities.”

India did not send a government delegation to the Shangri-La forum but has been active in strengthening cooperation in the region.

It sent four ships and a P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft to naval exercises with Singapore last month, and is discreetly improving Vietnam’s defences. Several Indian defence companies attended the International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference in Singapore last month, including the manufacturers of shortrange missiles.

New Delhi rejected an Australian request to join its Malabar naval exercises next month with Japan and the United States for fear of

antagonising China, which has warned against expanding the drills, navy officials and diplomats said.

But officials say the exercises will expand gradually, noting that India has bilateral defence agreements with countries including Australia, Singapore and Vietnam.

“There are different strands of cooperation. At some point they will come together,” one Indian official said.

Beijing sent a low-key delegation to the Shangri-La forum this year, but its officials were warily watching developments and warning of “Cold War thinking” behind moves to strengthen alliances.

“It’s a Cold War mentality to use alliances to check on China,” said Senior Colonel Zhao Xiaozhuo, of the People’s Liberation Army’s Academy of Military Science.

“It’s creating some sort of threat and using China as a threat is a huge mistake.”

N Korea rejects new sanctions, Residents trapped as gunfire mars ceasefire at Philippines city to continue nuclear program PYONGYANG, JUNE 4 (REUtERS): North Korea “fully rejects” the latest U.N sanctions against its citizens and entities as a “hostile act” and will continue its nuclear weapons development without a delay, its foreign ministry spokesman said on Sunday.

The U.N. Security Council on Friday expanded targeted sanctions against North Korea after its repeated missile tests, adopting the first such resolution agreed by the United States and Pyongyang’s only major ally China since U.S. President Donald Trump took office.

The sanctions resolution “is a crafty hostile act with the purpose of putting a curb on the DPRK’s buildup of nuclear forces, disarming it and causing economic suffocation to it,” the foreign ministry spokesman said in a statement carried by its official KCNA news agency. DPRK is short for Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, the North’s official name.

“Whatever sanctions

and pressure may follow, we will not flinch from the road to build up nuclear forces which was chosen to defend the sovereignty of the country and the rights to national existence and will move forward towards the final victory,” the spokesman said.

North Korea has rejected all U.N. Security Council resolutions dating back to 2006 when it conducted its first nuclear test, saying such moves directly infringe its sovereign right to self-defense.

The United States has struggled to slow North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs, which have become a security priority given Pyongyang’s vow to develop a nuclear-tipped missile capable of hitting the U.S. mainland.

The Trump administration has been pressing China aggressively to rein in its reclusive neighbor, warning that all options are on the table if Pyongyang persists with its nuclear and missile development.

North Korea blamed

the United States and China for “railroading and enforcing” the sanctions resolution at the U.N. Security Council “after having drafted it in the backroom at their own pleasure.”

“It is a fatal miscalculation if the countries ... would even think that they can delay or hold in check the eye-opening development of the (North’s) nuclear forces even for a moment,” the spokesman said.

Adding names to the U.N. blacklist mean a global travel ban and asset freeze, making the listings more symbolic given the isolated nature of official North Korean entities and the sophisticated network of front companies used by Pyongyang to evade current sanctions.

The U.N. Security Council first imposed sanctions on Pyongyang in 2006 over its ballistic missile and nuclear programs and has ratcheted up the measures in response to five nuclear tests and two long-range missile launches. North Korea is threatening a sixth nuclear test.

MARAWI, JUNE 4 (REUtERS): Thousands of civilians hoping to flee fighting in the besieged Philippines city of Marawi remained trapped on Sunday after a four-hour ceasefire to evacuate residents was marred by gunfire.

Only 134 were freed on Sunday, less than on previous days, despite government hopes that more than 1,000 would be able to leave a city battered by 13 days of intense fighting.

Philippines president Rodrigo Duterte predicted the siege would be over within days despite fierce resistance by fighters aligned to Islamic State in the dense urban heart of the southern Philippines city. “This will be over in about three more days,” Duterte said on Saturday after visiting a hospital in Cagayan de Oro where wounded soldiers were being treated.

“I will not hesitate to use every power available.”

About 400 local militants reinforced by about 40 foreign fighters stormed Marawi on May 23, using sophisticated battlefield tactics to take control of

Soldiers stand guard along the main street of Mapandi village as government troops continue their assault on insurgents from the Maute group, who have taken over large parts of Marawi City, Philippines June 2. (REUTERS)

large swaths of the lakeside city. They have been pushed back to the city centre by Philippines forces over the past week after some 4,000 ground troops were bolstered by helicopters and aircraft deploying rockets and bombs.

Many residents have told Reuters that the airstrikes caused extensive property damage and dozens of civilian deaths. Au-

thorities lifted the civilian death toll from 20 to 38 on Sunday - but said all those deaths were caused by militants. A presidential spokesman said 120 militants had died, along with 38 government forces.

Duterte said the use of air power had been restrained so far.

“I can end this war in 24 hours,” he said. “All I have to do is to bomb the

whole place and level it to the ground.” Duterte has asked the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), an Islamic separatist movement based on the Philippines island of Mindanao, to help negotiate a peace settlement with the Islamist fighters, who are predominantly drawn from the Maute Group based in and around Marawi.

Marawi, dubbed the

“Islamic City of Marawi”, is also located on Mindanao, which has a large Muslim population in a predominantly Catholic country and been destabilised by separatist insurgencies for decades.

MILF cadres organised Sunday’s ceasefire, which was to run from 8 am until noon. They roamed the streets with loud hailers urging residents to leave.

But by 9am, gunfire had broken out, apparently deterring residents from joining a mass exodus.

Marawi City’s mayor Majul Gandamra, told reporters on Sunday morning he was expecting “more or less 1,000 plus to be rescued today”. In the end, 134 were evacuated, less than previous days when there were no ceasefires. About 2,000 civilians remain in the city.

Irene Santiago, appointed

by Duterte to organise the “peace corridor”, said the effort had been a success, noting the fighting was several kilometres away from where the evacuation took place. She said negotiations were continuing with the Maute for another temporary ceasefire on Monday.

Priyanka’s day out with Nicole Kidman, Kendall Jenner Steve Carell thinks the world needs comedy

P

riyanka Chopra, who has made her Hollywood debut with “Baywatch”, was glad to spend a “perfect afternoon” in company of actress Nicole Kidman and supermodel aywatch” star Priyanka Kendall Jenner.

Chopra has her eye on a The Indian actress, who made her superhero role and says way to the foreign shores as a singer first Batgirl would be “cool” to and then in the fiction space on TV with play. A new Batgirl film was announced “Quantico”, took to Twitter to share her ex- earlier this year and it will be written and perience after hanging out with popular directed by Joss Whedon. The hunt for international personalities. the lead actress is still on and Priyanka, She tweeted: “A perfect New York after- 34, seems to have thrown her name into noon with these lovely ladies Nicole Kid- the ring. “My dream part is, now that I’m man, Kate Mara, Kendall Jenner and Keri working in America, I definitely want to Russell.” According to dailymail.co.uk, do a superhero part,” she says in a chat Priyanka met the stars as she attended an with OK! Magazine. “When I think of equestrian event at the Veuve Clicquot American movies, they’ve had superPolo Classic in New Jersey on Saturday. heroes for eons right? So I definitely She wore a white sundress with black pol- want to play a superhero and I want to an interesting super power. I don’t ka dots. The former Miss World also joked have know... Batgirl would be so cool!” Batabout the fact that her dress was similar girl has appeared twice on screen in reto Kidman’s dress. The Oscar-winning cent years; Alicia Silverstone played a star opted for a long sleeved, ankle-length version of her (called Barbara Wilson) white dress with black polka dots. in “Batman & Robin”, and Rosario DawPriyanka tweeted: “We got the memo.. son voiced Barbara Gordon/Batgirl in lol Nicole Kidman twinning.” the recent “Lego Batman Movie.

Source: PTI On the professional front, Priyanka made her Hollywood debut with a negative role in “Baywatch”, which has been the film as “shallow”, “stupid”, “misguidadapted from the 1990s’ popular TV series ed”, and “wantonly crude”. “Baywatch” reof the same name. Internationally, the film leased in India on Friday. has fared poorly with critics describing Source: IANS

Priyanka Chopra wants to play Batgirl

“B

We’ve not achieved even 10 per cent of Rajesh Khanna’s stardom: Salman

S

uperstar Salman Khan says yesteryear actors like Rajesh Khanna and Dilip Kumar have enjoyed stardom in the real sense, which is unbeatable. When it comes to stardom, the Khan trio of Salman, Shah Rukh and Aamir has ruled Bollywood for last two decades and are still at the top. Ask him about the frenzy surrounding the stardom of A-list stars, Salman says, “Actor wise I don’t think anyone is bigger than Dilip Kumar, after that Mr Amitabh Bachchan had a very good run and he’s work-

ing even today and is everywhere.

“Star wise if you think we guys have the popularity then (it is not)... I think there is no one bigger than Rajesh Khanna and other was Kumar Gaurav. I have seen the stardom of both and it was unbelievable. So, when there is comparison about stardom I feel we don’t even have 10 per cent of it.”

Khanna, who is touted as the first superstar of Hindi cinema, delivered 15 consecutive solo superhits between 1969 and 1972, which remains an unbroken record till now in the history of Indian films.

Debutante Kumar Gaurav, son of actor Rajendra Kumar, became an overnight sensation with his film “Love Story” in the early 80s.

Salman says he doesn’t take the tag of ‘superstar’ seriously.

“It’s (acting) just a job. If you take everything seriously it is going to go your head. I live my life moment to moment and do my best in every moment,” he says. The 51-year-old actor feels an actor should keep giving his/her best at every stage of career and not get affected by their status. “Like if there is one person who is doing

really well and gets in complacent zone and thinks whatever I do is ok and that’s like the worst thing to do ever. So, no matter where you are, you should always think how did you get up there and should work in a way you did for your first film, that sincerity should be there in every shot,” he says. Salman is awaiting the release of his next film “Tubelight”, directed by Kabir Khan, in which he stars alongside his brother Sohail Khan and Chinese actress Zhu Zhu. It releases on Eid. Source: PTI

A

ctor Steve Carell believes the world needs to see light-hearted movies, as he says there’s a place for comedy in today’s political climate. The 54-year-old actor - who is largely known for appearing in comedy features - says that in the situation where many people are concerned about the state of the world around them, there is a definite place for movies that express the decency of human behaviour.

“What is an audience looking for?’ is a different question than ‘What does an audience need to see?’ For me as an actor, I’m tending to go towards things that are lacking cynicism and have a point of view and potentially a joy

to them. “Not necessarily a happy ending, but something that expresses decency of human behaviour. Those are the kinds of things that reflect where I am,” he says.

Source: PTI

Kareena signs her first biopic

K

areena Kapoor Khan has not signed any film after she delivered her son Taimur in December last year. The actress has been getting in shape for her next film Veerey Di Wedding. But now it comes to light that the actress has been approached

by Omung Kumar to do a biopic. He has previously made Mary Kom and Sarbjit. While Veere Di Wedding goes on floors soon, Kareena has been listening to scripts and Omung has reached out to the actress.

Says a source, “Omung has wanted to work with Kareena for quite some time and he has finally found the right script for her. It’s a biopic and the actress and filmmaker will soon sit for a round of narrations. Then Bebo will take a call on the film.” After casting Priyanka Chopra and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan in two biopics, Omung plans to cast Kareena now in her first biopic ever.

Source: DNA

10

MonDAY 05•06•2017

public discourse

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Are we doing the right way to protect and conserve our environment?

Hongba phom Head, Fingerprint

THE VALUE OF NATURE In recent decades, scientific advances as well as growing environmental problems such as global warming are helping us to understand the countless ways in which natural systems support our own prosperity and well-being. Climate change is widely regarded as one of the most serious challenges the world faces with consequences that post greater effects on the environment. Since the environment is not restricted to boundaries of different countries, it might as well mean that no country or individual will escape the effects of such climate catastrophe.

For example, the world’s oceans, forests and soils act as vast stores for greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide and methane; farmers and fisher-folk harness nature on land and under water to provide us with food; scientists develop medicines using genetic material drawn from the millions of species that make up Earth’s astounding biological diversity.

Billions of rural people around the world spend every working day ‘connected to nature’ and appreciate full well their dependence on natural water supplies and how nature provides their livelihoods in the form of fertile soil.

They are among the first to suffer when ecosystems are threatened, whether by pollution, climate change or over-exploitation.

To understand how much we rely on ecosystem services, imagine a world where

humans are the only species – perhaps in a spaceship far from Earth.

There are no plants releasing oxygen, so you have to engineer a way to make it yourself. So straight away you need a chemical processing plant on board your ship. That same plant will have to make water too.

There is also nothing to eat, so you must artificially make food. You could synthesise chemicals like sugars and fats, but making it appetising would be extremely hard. As of 2017, we can't even make an artificial burger or Vegetables that everyone finds convincing.

Nature’s gifts are often hard to value in monetary terms. Like clean air, they are often taken for granted, at least until they become scarce and start suffocating. In 1997, ecologist Robert Costanza and his colleagues estimated that the biosphere provides services worth around $33 trillion a year. For comparison, they noted that the entire global economy at the time produced around $18 trillion a year.

At present, economists are developing systematic ways to measure the multi-trilliondollar worth of many so-called ‘ecosystem services’, from insects pollinating fruit trees in the orchards of California to the leisure, health and spiritual benefits of a hike up a Himalayan valley.

STUDENTS’ ROLE As environmental concerns escalate around the globe, people are taking actions like never before. A lot of attention is being focused on the environment and all sectors should collaborate to be able to help and take

part in the most pressing concerns. Young people are one of the most promising sectors of the society. They can be promoters of change, young as they are because of their natural dynamism and will power, they can bring fresh perspective, energy, drive and a sense of what is possible. Youth in the academe, being educated and informed have greater opportunity to be involved and take part in addressing environmental concerns.

There’s much we can do to learn and support their efforts. Young people constitute a large part of our state demographic.

Undoubtedly, the youth can significantly perform vital roles in the society. It is imperative that youth from all parts of our State participate actively in all relevant levels of decision making processes because it affects their lives today and has implications for their futures. The youth are agents of change. They are the hope of the present and next generations to come. Aside from having greater stake in the more distant future, young people are especially well-paced to promote environmental awareness simply because they often have better access to information about the environment than their elders. Aside from exposure in formal education, youth of today have lived all their lives in an era in which environmental issues have loomed large. Youth participation in all societal concerns has long been noted. Many success stories about young peoples’ participation in environmental advocacy have been heard. The Philippine Center for Environmental Protection and Sustainable Development, Inc; reflected

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Forestry Graduates’ Association of Nagaland (FGAN)

is something man cannot compare with materialistic gains. In fact,Santa Monica in California is taking a new initiative called as “Remedy hike” to be launched on WED with the aim of improving the health by connecting with nature and with each other.A stroll in the neighbourhood or park or a trek in the high up for recreational satisfaction can be quite soothing to our mind and it willalso improve our health. Research shows that social isolation is bad for health and results in disrupted sleep patterns, altered immune systems, more inflammation and higher levels of stress hormones. Fresh and cleanair is in limited supply in this 21st century owing to human activities.

According to the “State of Global Air 2017” report, it shows that India accounts for the maximum premature death from ozone pollution surpassing China.

India has witnessed a 150 per cent rise in lives lost over the past two decades from ozone pollutants.

Also, in regard to indoor air pollution (IAP), a study conducted by Clean Air India Movement (CLAIM) in Delhi reported that as many as 34 percent of the people who spend most of their time indoors, in offices and at homes, have various types of respiratory diseases because of the IAP. Bad indoor air quality can cause chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) among women and aggravate asthmasymptoms among children.

India this year on WEDis going to launch a massive campaign of waste management in 4000 towns where litter bins will be made available to collect both solid and liquid wastes. To add to this, the Supreme court’s decision to go paperless is a prudent step in saving water and millions of trees from getting axed.

Going outdoors will boost our creativity and self-esteem and also relax our mood and focus which can be referred to as ‘green exercise’. Vitamin D which is a sunshine vitamin is needed for a healthy bone and overall health. 65-70 per cent Indians are Vitamin D deficient and 15 per cent are insufficient.

Getting outdoors can help maintain our Vitamin D levels in the therapeutic range of 50-70 ng/ml naturally.The Earth carries an enormous negative charge, is always electronrich and can serve as an abundant supplier of antioxidant which is a health booster.There is no age barrier for outdoor activities. Research also shows that older adults who spend more time outdoors have less pain, sleep better

and have less functional decline in their ability to carry out their daily activities. We’re now witnessing record rates of childhood obesity, along with increasing rates of type 2 diabetes, asthma, vitamin D deficiency, and ADHD, all of which may be somewhat linked to children spending less time with nature and instead remaining indoors and engaged in electronic gadgets. In fact, a shift toward a sedentary lifestyle and away from active outdoor activities has been described as a major contributor to the decline in children’s health.One great way of blending with nature is a combination of yoga and nature as both have a perfect intangible complimentary effect.The deep breathing we inhale during a yoga practice can supply our lungs with clean air which nature provides.

We don’t need a data to convince us of our love for nature. We, the Nagas and our land are not a separate entity from the rest of the world as everything in our world is inextricably connected in an intricate manner. The Nagas were nature worshippers long before the advent of Christianity. Great care and utmost reverence were paid to nature. However, with the advancement of the Naga society, the very ethos of preserving and revering nature has been challenged as it can be inferred from the biennial analysis of Forest Survey of India (FSI) 2015, which indicated a significant decrease of 78 sq km in comparison to 2013 report. Forest cover of Nagaland stands at 12,966 sq km accounting for 78.02 % of the total geographical area of the state, however efforts must be made and policies must be solicited to bring more area under forest. There is no room for lull moment in preserving the environment and humansbeing the most intelligent, subconsciousandponderous living entity, the onus of preserving and safeguarding the environment lies on us. Earth is the common habitat for more than 7 billion humans and millions of species biodiversity and so long as the veracity of the probabilistic Drake equation is proved, feasibility of inhabiting and exploiting other planets remain stranger than the strangest science fiction, therefore earth regeneration remains the greatest challenge confronting the human civilization and chances are there are no feasible option we can avail but to protect, preserve and regenerate our earth.

“Earth provides enough to satisfy every man’s need, but not every man’s greed”, a notion by ‘father of the nation’ Mahatma Gandhi.

NEED OF RIGHT TOOLS Our State Government should harness and utilize the demographic strength of the Student community. The Concerned Department instead of doing the customary work of planning and executing (Fund and expenditure) and working within a small radius of the Department, they should evolve new ways to promote and technically educate the future generation and bring innovative and vibrant

ideas to involve mass participation and not just for the department official or few closely knitted people TILL THEN WHAT WE CAN DO “Connect With Nature” This year’s World Environment Day is an ideal occasion to go out and enjoy your outdoor picnic or have a nature walk in wilderness areas.

Connecting to nature can involve all the physical senses: why not take off your shoes and get your feet (and hands) dirty; don’t just look at the beautiful lake ( if you have one in your area), jump in! Take a hike (if your surrounding area permits) at night and rely on your ears and nose to experience nature.

You can also connect with nature in the city, where you can visit Nagaland Zoologigal park Dimapur, Once you are there, why not set yourself a challenge (seek out a animal you to want closely watch, identify different birds, reach the remotest corner of the park).

Why not do your bit to green the urban environment, by greening your street or a derelict site, or planting a window box.

Wherever you are, you could vow to pick up 10 (or 100) pieces of trash. Your activity doesn’t have to take place on 5 June itself.

In the age of asphalt and smartphones and among the distractions of modern life, connections with nature can be fleeting. But with your help, our environment can be clearer than ever that we need harmony between humanity and nature so that both are able to thrive.

nature and much more...

CONNECTING PEOPLE TO NATURE etter society starts with a better environment.

World environment day (WED), is observed on 5 June annually.

It was designated by the UN General Assembly in 1972 on the first day of United Nations Conference on the Human Environment, focussing on the integration of human interactions with the environment. It is celebrated to raise global awareness about environmental change and how we, as a citizen, should in our own way contribute towards its betterment.Canada is the host country this year with the theme “Connecting people to nature”.

This year’s theme urges us to think how we are inextricably a part of nature and how intimately we depend on it. It directs us to oust the atrocity towards nature and work assiduously.

Deforestation, land degradation, global warming and pollution are deteriorating our climate and environment and any effort for its mitigation will need a close empathy between human and nature. We need to resuscitate the bond with nature to enjoy its perpetuity. And to begin with, one can start by planting trees and regularly keeping the environment clean.Likewise, social work in Nagaland should be conducted in such a manner so as to not eradicate the seedlings which one day will grow into a fully matured tree but instead separate and clean the harmful waste and overgrowth of weeds.

We spend time hankering to explore other places and in the meantime we neglect our own land. Nagaland is known for its pleasant year round climate and hilly terrains paving way for the trekkers and tourists to take the challenge of hiking in the mountains and enjoy the serene waterfalls.

About 64,616 domestic tourists and 2,769 foreign tourists visited the state in 2015 in an increasing rate.

One such example of ecotourism is the conservation of Amur falcons by the department of forests, local NGO’s and the local communitiesfor which Nagaland has earned the title “Falcon Capital of the World”. As American naturalists and ornithologist Roger Tory Peterson said, “Birds are indicators of the environment. If they are in trouble, we know we’ll soon be in trouble”.

In this techno world, all answers to our queries are just a click away but unless one experiences the exquisiteness physically, it is impractical to judge and define. How often have you wandered in the pathless woods for a real time adventure. The feeling of wilderness surrounding you

youth participations in environmental advocacies through the Green Youth Movement of the Philippines. GYM Philippines believed that the Filipino youth should be involved in green initiatives because a) they comprises 30% of the country’s population, b) they are vulnerable to environmental degradation and disasters, c) they will inherit the responsibility of taking care of the environment, d) has high intellectual capacity for green initiatives, and e) has strong ability to mobilize.

Youth mobility may be enhanced when working as a group. It can help build network and exchange valuable ideas to promote the conservation awareness. Student organizations may provide a successful tool in accelerating the development towards aware and motivated students. Environmental education and protection advocacy must include student community as visionaries and creative thinkers because by doing so, new possibilities and options may be found as Students are the change agents It is therefore worthy to look at the environmental initiatives of student Community in academic institutions.

J

Samhita Barooah

une 5 is back and human connect with nature is moving against time. We are living in some strange mirage of unlimited abundance which is as intangible as life itself. It is a growing trend these days that nature can be only enjoyed through artificial parks, water bodies, audio-visual documentaries and a few safari rides in restricted wildlife parks. Children are planting trees in schools, employees grow money plants and pot plants inside their workplaces, some college and university students debate, resolve and swear to safeguard environment and state authorities showcase huge advertisements about awareness on safe environment.

In reality we are disconnecting ourselves from nature. We live in concrete jungles inside regulated boxes which doesn’t even have space for natural light, air or water. We have huge air-conditioned public spaces in the name of development which consume enormous amount of electricity, fossil fuels and emits carbons. We travel in pollution causing private vehicles which have hazardous fumes, emissions and noise intolerant to

human existence. Our food consists of similar tastes, textures, flavours and monotonous processed varieties which are artificial, genetically modified and distant from local and seasonal biodiversity.

Our bodies are restricted and regulated by antibiotics, hormones, vaccines, pain-killers and antidepressants which fortify our cells, tissues and bones against natural hazards and epidemics. We are no longer finding livelihoods lucrative enough to sustain, regenerate and restore nature but we are hallucinating a more secured livelihood in destroying and degenerating nature.

In fact nature is the most critical equalizer. During Tsunami, earthquakes, landslides, floods, hurricanes and cyclones, nobody is spared whether they belong to any class, caste, gender, tribe, race, religion or nationality. Disasters affect all in equal terms. Some people make the best of such disasters while others are swept off their grounds. Nature has always challenged the most dynamic and technologically advanced human innovation in recent years.

All weather indicators, seismic zone analysers, soil and water test-

ing equipments and injected and oral vaccines fail to assess natural disasters, health epidemics, pest attack, human accidents and conflicts. However human supremacy over nature have had mixed results. The moment human beings rejoice their authority, control and domination over natural forces with advanced technology backed with sound policy and strategic public action, nature reigns above any such human endeavour. In fact nature tries to connect with us constantly through its diversity, seasonality, variability and organic associations. But human compulsions of convenience comfort and compatibility disconnects from nature with disastrous impact.

In this conjuncture of nature versus technology, can we live in coherence with natural ecology?

Can we relieve ourselves and our bodies from being slaves of artificial products, chemical contamination and abusive energy use? In our daily hassles of micro politics and cultural constructs of class, ethnicity, gender and caste can we downplay the craze towards individual ownership of natural resources? Can we collectively replenish nature, habitats and

Besides humAn life G. L. Khing

T

Kohima

he green and virgin forest of Nagaland provides pleasant habitat for wild life in Nagaland. Herds ofanimals and flocks of birds that found their way into our forest are happy to dwell beside us.

This is because Nagas are eco-friendly tribal people. The Nagas are closely associated with nature and its cycle of life.

Human civilization took its birth in the wild forest. Later, with the change of life style, the forestgave itself up for the sake of human beings to develop and live as groups in villages and towns. The vicinity of each other gave men a sense of security.

Clearing of jungles and trees became necessary for human survival. Yet, there are lives besides human life.

The forest, birds, animals and other reptiles also form ‘one life’. To destroy them would mean destroying a part of human life.

Therefore, the green forest must be protected before it becomes desert. The climatic change in this few decades has adversely affected both human and wild life.Realizing its negative impact, many organizations and associations began to instill into the minds of the people the need for preservation of wild life.

The good initiative taken up by many NGOs must be further encouraged.

The Government must also see to the proper preservation of wild life in the forest and not only in the zoo.

Of late, there has been a clarion call with regard to restrictions of hunting and fishing. This is so because every bird and animal that lives in our jurisdiction has a role to play for our well being. I am sure no one is disturb by the barking of the deer, the chirping of the birds, the buzzing of the bees, the sound of the trees, the rushing of the river, etc. Flo-

ra and fauna add joy to the happiness of man’s life.

Sometimes, destructive actions overtake our human goodness. We destroy all that does not belong to us. A small bird that sings happily in the morning is chased up and down and killed. Tiny birds with beautiful feathers that fly around are mercilessly butchered. Wild animals that roam about peacefully are shot. As the saying goes, “Nagas eat all moving creatures.” (from Assam dog to the tiniest insect). Luckily vehicles and airplanes are not living creatures. If so, NST buses will be plying with bones alone, the flesh will be eaten soon after the inauguration (sometimes it happens in Nagaland). Likewise, many pots are washed clean to welcome Amur falcons and wild ducks. These birds are then anointed with costly scented perfumes of axone and bamboo shoots inside the kitchen. The killer finds satisfaction but the victim is shocked by the cruelty of man. The selfish hand of man wants to gather everything for himself , but later he may lose everything.

Even reserved forest like Inkangki is losing its significance because of random cutting of trees and killing of wild life by some people/groups.

Lots of illegal business takes place in this forest. The forest’s wealth is sold to Assam for good sum of money. The rich Nagas intrude inside the forest to make themselves richer. After establishing themselves from such money, they come out of the forest and teach people to preserve forest.

The talk of rich people seems higher value to many Naga ears.

Every individual must play the role of protecting wild life around us. By this we enhance the life of our planet. Let our forest give the best shelter to every reptiles, plants, birds and animals. They can be more human than most human beings.

ecosystems and regenerate every life form? Nature does not exist in isolation. It is an extremely fluid context as every organism’s habit, habitat and survival defines the natural space around it. Adaptation is not only a trait for human beings but nature also adapts to human interventions. Sometimes such interventions benefit nature but mostly it disrupts its pace. Can technology adapt itself according to natural processes, needs and transformations? Nature does not wait for human adaptations. Human beings rather have to wait for natural adaptations. Human resilience of nature has unbound impact on the cultural, social and ecological intricacies. Such resilience of natural forces is not an essentialist approach for a particular section of society on the basis of geographical location, community, gender or class but it becomes a matter of identity and political construction. Human beings need to realise their natural nexus as a part of nature not as an owner of nature. May be human woes due to natural disconnect could be adequately contained. #Nature and much more...

The Going Green Citizen Y. Longdilong Sangtam President, Green Team, Science College Jotsoma

The shopkeeper said, he comes shop walking.

Always get his things without wrappings; For he carries his old jute bag, sayingPolythenes and plastics are just pollutants.

The plumber knows well about him, For the plentiful water at his home.

Surplus amount to supplied, as he harvested; From the rains, that he seemed so interested.

His light bills records say 'low'Well known from the register of 'Power Dept'.

Despite using all technos-to date.

For switching it 'on and off ' he knows.

His office colleagues says, he is honest; For they see him in public transport; In all the unofficial works he goes, Leaving his office car, at its rightful comfort.

His Grandpa joke -he don't own guns to shoot The animals and birds around him.

Rather owns a good camera to shoot; The admirable natural beauty around him.

"He is a good citizen" His children and wife say so..!

An example of Going Green Citizen, And even future generations will say so..!

Are you this Going Green Citizen?

Preaching by your walks, Walking -what you talk.

If so God bless you, for been the 'True Citizen' (Inspired by Unknown Citizen- W.H. Auden)

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

Monday 05•06•2017

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Monday 05•06•2017

SPORTS

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Real Madrid claim 12th European title

Real Madrid poses with the trophy after winning the UEFA Champions League final football match between Juventus and Real Madrid at The Principality Stadium in Cardiff, south Wales, on June 3, 2017. (AFP Photo)

C M Y K

CARDIFF, June 4 (ReuteRs): Cristiano Ronaldo scored twice as Real Madrid beat Juventus 4-1 in a memorable Champions League final full of attacking verve and brilliant goals on Saturday as the Spaniards won the title for the third time in four years and 12th in all.

Portugal forward Ronaldo hit Real's first and third goals to become only the second man to score in three European Cup finals and take his career goal tally to 600 for club and country.

Few of those will have matched Mario Mandzukic's spectacular overhead equaliser for Juventus, which was eventually in vain for the Italian side who had the best of the first half before being swept aside in the second.

A long-range deflected effort by Casemiro and a neat finish by the irrepressible Ronaldo within four minutes effectively settled

one of the most entertaining finals for years, with a late tap-in by substitute Marco Asensio adding the gloss.

The victory means Real are the first team to successfully defend the trophy in the Champions League era. AC Milan were the last team to retain Europe’s top prize when they triumphed in 1989 and 1990.

"It's been a spectacular year, you couldn't dream of anything better," said Real coach Zinedine Zidane.

"We won the (Spanish) league on the very last day.

It's very difficult to reach the Champions League final two years running, but we did that."

"The first half was difficult, but in the second we were quickly superior. We pressed a lot more and physically we won the game there too, so I'm very happy."

It was heartbreak again for Juve, however, who were seeking a treble after

winning the Italian league and cup. They came away as losers for the seventh time in nine European Cup finals having also lost to Barcelona in 2015.

The Italians let in more goals on Saturday than the three they had conceded in the 12 games they played to reach the final as a muchvaunted Real attack versus Juve defence scenario went emphatically in Madrid's favour.

REAL STRIKE Juventus looked the more adventurous side in the first 20 minutes but it was Real who struck first after the sort of trigonometric build-up that coaches write books about.

Ronaldo was at the heart of it, playing the ball into the path of Dani Carvajal who cut it straight back to allow the Portuguese forward to sweep the ball sweetly into the far corner.

That made Ronaldo the second man to score in

Nadal moves into French Open quarters PARIs, June 4 (ReuteRs): Rafa Nadal returned to Roland Garros after his birthday celebrations and showed no signs of slowing up, railroading compatriot Roberto Bautista Agut 6-1 6-2 6-2 in the

fourth round on Sunday.

In yet another ominous performance, Nadal destroyed his opponent on Court Suzanne Lenglen to move into the quarter-finals and one step closer to a 10th Roland Garros crown.

Nadal, who turned 31 on Saturday, will next face either Milos Raonic or another Spaniard Pablo Carreno Busta for a place in the semi-finals. Nadal has not lost a set so far this tournament.

Nagaland sweep Indo-Bhutan Friendship Tourney DIMAPuR, June 4 (Mexn): Team Nagaland completed a clean sweep in the men's category of the recently concluded Indo-Bhutan International Friendship Tournament.

Team Nagaland consisting of Vilasier Khate, Keneisezotuo Whuorie, Zhaputso Khate and Vitsizolie Nagi brought laurels to the state by winning the Friendship tournament organised by the Bhutan Tennis Federation which is held at Thimpu in the month of May every year.

Vilasier defeated Kenei 4-6, 6-3, 7-6 to claim the singles title in an all Nagaland final affair. Vila and Kenei then paired up to win the doubles title by defeating top seeds Parth Aggarwal and Medhir Goyal 6-3, 6-1.

With this result, Nagaland has managed to win the title for three consecutive years since 2015.

Over 1500 injured in Turin stampede

Panic was triggered by fireworks being let off and one or more people shouting a bomb had exploded. (AFP Photo)

tuRIn, June 4 (AFP): More than 1,500 people were injured, three seriously, after a bomb scare triggered a stampede among Juventus fans watching the Champions League final in Turin, local authorities said Sunday.

In an update on Saturday's dramatic events in a square packed with supporters watching the Cardiff match on a giant screen, the local prefecture said 1,527 had been treated for mainly minor injuries.

Three people were in a serious but not life-threatening condition, including a young boy. Local media described him as a seven-year-old and said he was in a coma with serious chest injuries after being trampled in the crush.

AFP reporters who witnessed the scenes said the panic seemed to have been triggered by fireworks, followed by one or more people shouting that a bomb had exploded -- a notion that quickly filtered through the crowd.

The incident compounded a miser-

able night for fans of Turin-based Juventus, who lost the final 4-1 to Real Madrid.

It also underlined the impact recent acts of terror are having on a jittery public across Europe, and the dilemmas now faced by organisers of any mass gathering of people following the Bataclan, Paris and Manchester concert attacks.

"This is a city that lives with anxiety and panic is something that is very difficult to control," said Turin Prefect Renato Saccone.

As fear took hold, a rush towards exit points quickly accelerated and the square emptied so quickly it was left strewn with hundreds of shoes ripped off people's feet as they ran.

The square was still dotted with shoes, clothes, bags and patches of blood on Sunday morning. The high number of cuts was blamed on beer in glass bottles having been freely available before and during the match from unlicensed vendors.

Buffon feels the pain after third final defeat CARDIFF, June 4 (ReuteRs): The greatest goalkeeper of his generation, Juventus's Gianluigi Buffon tasted defeat in his third Champions League final as the major missing medal from his illustrious career once again slipped out of his grasp on Saturday.

A 4-1 defeat by Real Madrid was tough to take for the 39-year-old who may never get another chance to win European club football's top prize. "It's a big disappointment because we thought we did everything we needed to win," Buffon told Italian television as Real celebrated at the Principality Stadium. "We had a great first half in which we had Real in trouble. It leaves you with an

open mouth, the episodes that never went our way," he said, referring to Casemiro's deflected strike that put Real 2-1 up.

Buffon had played in two previous Champions League finals and both times went home as a runner-up, against AC Milan on penalties in Manchester in 2003 and against Barcelona in Berlin two years ago.

Even in his state of bitter disappointment, however, Buffon was able to sum up exactly what is needed to triumph. "To win this cup you have to be stronger than everything against you. In the second half their class, their strength, their ability to win these challenges was seen and they deservedly won," he said.

Shuttler Praneeth clinches title at Thailand Open BAngkOk, June 4 (IAns): Third seeded Indian shuttler B. Sai Praneeth defeated Indonesian fourth seed Jonatan Christie in the final to capture the men's singles title in the $1,20,000 Thailand Open Grand Prix badminton championships here on Sunday.

Praneeth lost the first game 17-21 but came back strongly to take the next two games, 21-18, 21-19, respectively. The final lasted an hour and 11 minutes. It was world No.24 Praneeth's second title of the year after his Singapore Open Superseries triumph in April.

The 24-year-old Indian showed a lot of composure and character right from the start despite getting a slow start. In the first game,

he trailed 1-4 and equalised at the five-point mark and even took the lead.

But Christie continued to attack and got a 14-11 lead but the Indian fought back to equalise at 14-all.

However, Christie's ploy of attacking to the left of Praneeth worked as he won the first game 21-17.

In the second game, Praneeth caught a flying start, holding a 9-3 lead but Christie didn't surrender and bagged six consecutive points to send a strong message to his rival.

Then, they were involved in a see-saw game and in this hard-fought game, Christie showed signs of running out of gas, resulting in some poor serving. Praneeth stepped

Sai Praneeth of India plays a shot against Indonesia's Jonatan Christie at the Thailand Open Grand Prix Gold. (AFP)

up to scavenge at this juncture and equalise with a 2118 win.

Christie regained his energy and raced to an 8-3 lead in the third game.

A desperate Praneeth got

into resurrection mode. He slowly clawed his way back into the game, aided by the over-aggression from the Indonesian, who played some wayward shots.

Under pressure from

Praneeth's cross-court strokes, Christie allowed the Indian to be back on level terms at the ninepoint mark. The Indonesian slowed the game down by slowing down the movement of the shuttle and this affected the Indian who was going all hammer and tong.

The Indian, however, resorted to net-game which caused further problems for Indonesia, with Praneeth holding a 17-15 lead. Couple of poor service from Christie and coupled with poor netgame, allowed the Indian to take a 20-16 lead. The Indonesian then could only save two championship point, eventually losing 19-21.

Holloway stops Aldo to win UFC featherweight belt

Pitch Burners lift 8th Summer Cup

BAlIJAn, June 4 (Mexn): Pitch Burners of Karbi Anglong beat Dimapur Knights, Dimapur in a low scoring final on Sunday to lift the 8th Summer Cup Cricket Tournament.

Pitch Burners electing to bat were bundled

three finals, after Alfredo Di Stefano, who netted in five in a row for Real in the 1950s.

Ronaldo's effort was eclipsed seven minutes later by one of the all-time great final goals.

Juve centre back Leonardo Bonucci drove a long diagonal ball which Alex Sandro reached and cushioned back across the box.

With another volley Gonzalo Higuain knocked it to Croatia striker Mandzukic, who took a touch on his chest and, with his back to goal, struck a stunning bicycle kick that looped over Real keeper Keylor Navas.

The ball did not touch the ground between leaving Bonucci's boot and hitting the net.

The Juventus fans in the 72,000 crowd erupted, ramping up the atmosphere that was already crackling under the closed stadium roof.

DIFFERENT STORY It was a different story after the break, however, and though Juve's drilled defence initially kept Real at arm's length, they were undone by a two-goal salvo.

Casemiro made it 2-1 after 61 minutes when his defelcted long-range wrong-footed veteran keeper Gianluigi Buffon who has now lost in three finals - and Ronaldo swept in the third at the near post after a great run and cross

by Luka Modric.

Juventus then wilted and finished with 10 men after Juan Cuadrado was sent off in the 84th minute – 18 minutes after coming on as a substitute – following a second booking for the mildest of pushes on defender Sergio Ramos, whose theatrics left a sour taste on an otherwise uplifting occasion.

Asensio tucked in the fourth goal after Marcelo had charged to the byline and Real's dominance was complete.

"Again, I've had an amazing season," said Ronaldo. "Me and my team mates have done the double. The numbers don't lie.

I'm very happy – an amazing season, we've won trophies.

"This is one of the best moments of my career – I have the chance to say this every year."

After a positive start it turned into a hugely frustrating night for Juventus and their coach Max Allegri.

"My only criticism of my team is that after the second goal we should have found a solution to stay in the game," he said.

"But Real Madrid have important players and when they have a player who wins the Ballon d'Or (Ronaldo) it's a huge advantage."

out for 58 runs in 10 overs.

In reply, the Dimapur Knights run chase was much the same as Pitch Burners’ inning as they kept losing wickets regularly. In the end, the Dimapur Knights innings collapsed to 49 runs in 9.4

overs – short by 9 runs.

Chotaylal of Dimapur Knights was adjudged as Man of the Series.

Chief Guest for the closing Padomi Engtipi, Ex- VDC Chairman, Borjan Constituency gave away the prizes.

RIO De JAneIRO, June 4 (AP): Max Holloway claimed the undisputed UFC featherweight title on Saturday night, stopping longreigning champion Jose Aldo in the third round of an impressive upset victory.

Holloway (18-3) won the belt in Aldo’s native Brazil with a dynamite finish. The interim 145-pound champion floored Aldo with a big right hand, getting on top and raining down punishment until referee John McCarthy stopped the bout with 47 seconds left in the round.

The Hawaii-born Holloway earned his 11th consecutive UFC victory and claimed the title held by Aldo for most of the past six years. Aldo lost the belt to Conor McGregor in December 2015, but regained it last year.

Aldo (26-3) is the most accomplished featherweight in mixed martial arts history, but he has lost

Max Holloway

two of his last three bouts after winning 18 consecutive fights from 2006-15.

Top Brazilian strawweight contender Claudia Gadelha recorded an impressive first-round stoppage of Poland’s Karolina Kowalkiewicz, and Vitor Belfort also won a debat-

able unanimous decision over Nate Marquardt, thrilling the Brazilian fans of the 40-year-old former UFC champion from Rio. But in the main event, Aldo couldn’t capitalize on his home-crowd advantage after the opening round against Holloway, who

didn’t waste his first shot at the undisputed title.

Holloway clawed his way to this stage with a lengthy unbeaten run since his loss to McGregor in August 2013, capped by his stoppage win over Anthony Pettis for the interim belt last December.

Aldo’s hand speed and overall quickness were confounding early on for Holloway, whose normally crisp striking struggled to match Aldo’s movement.

After Aldo controlled the first round, Holloway found his rhythm in a tight second, matching Aldo’s famed work rate and aggression.

Holloway then decked Aldo with a ferocious right in the third, sending the champion to the ground and allowing Holloway to get into mount.

Holloway rained down punches on Aldo and nearly landed a rear naked choke during the prolonged scramble. Holloway was relentless, and Aldo couldn’t figure out a way to escape before getting finished.

Aldo was the strong favorite at Jeunesse Arena in his adopted hometown. He was fighting in Rio for the fourth time in his last eight bouts.

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