March 14th, 2016

C M Y K

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MonDAY • MArch 14 • 2016

DIMAPUR • Vol. XI • Issue 71 • 12 PAGes • 5

T H e

ESTD. 2005

Art is born of the observation and investigation of nature Poverty, child marriage, violence decline when women own land -World Bank PAGE 09

reflections

By Sandemo Ngullie

Public Information

morung@gmail.com

Vote on www.morungexpress.com sMs your answer to 9862574165 Should theologians and Church leaders get involved in politics in Nagaland? Why? Yes

No

others

Do you believe there is ‘tolerance’ in Naga society? Why? Yes

14%

No

73%

others

13%

Details on page 7

C M Y K

T R u T H

— Cicero

Kekobata: The story of a toilet

PSG demolish Troyes to clinch Ligue 1 title PAGE 12

With faith in ‘free nagaland’, a GPRN/NSCN reveals details of March 9 meet former warrior lives on in Mon

Press statements, memorandums, articles, reports and news related documents should be sent to

The Morung Express Poll QuEsTIoN

o F

PAGE 02

“Forget funds, I’ll give you full independence if you stop bringing me Nagas’ waist coats.!!”

Editor, The Morung Express

P o W e R

(lEFT) The wooden engraving depicting Cheno’s captivity by the India Army. (RIGHT) Cheno Khuzuthrupa, the veteran NNC warrior inside his hearth at Chenwetnyu village.

Ashikho Pfuzhe Mon | March 13

Four decades after coming overground, this veteran Konyak warrior from remote Chentwetnyu village in Mon district bordering Myanmar still hopes to rest his weary limbs in a ‘Free Nagaland.’

Cheno Khuzuthrupa, now in his nineties, joined the Naga National Council (NNC) in 1952, the same year NNC leader, AZ Phizo, came to Konyak country to propagate a Nagaland free from external occupation.

In 1952, Phizo reportedly passed through Chenwetnyu village enroute to Wakching where he addressed a public meeting and called upon the Konyak people to join the Naga freedom movement.

“At Chenwetnyu, Phizo urged us to join the NNC for self-determination”, Cheno recalled, sitting in his hearth with a cup of black tea. Inspired by the concept of a “free Naga country”, Cheno joined the NNC and served in various capacities including as ‘Raja Peyu’ before

coming overground in 1976.

In March 1960, he was caught by Indian Army and imprisoned for a month in Mon. “We were tortured by the India Army and as prisoner, I was also part of the labour force which constructed the DC Bungalow, football ground and helipad in Mon town”, he said.

On a huge block of wood near the entrance to his ancient house is sculpted the images of Cheno in manacles flanked by two Indian soldiers – a grim reminder of the troubled and

tortured past.

Fourteen years after Phizo set foot in Chenwetnyu, the village played host to one of the most eventful moments in the history of Naga struggle: in 1966, a band of 100-odd NNC soldiers under the command of then Naga Army Brig Thinoselie Keyho, camped in Chenwetnyu village for four months (May-September) before embarking on the long trek to China on foot.

Cheno distinctly remembers the presence of NSCN (I-M) leaders Th. Muivah (then Foreign secretary) and Isak Chishi Swu in Keyho’s band.

This was the first batch of Naga Army to undergo arms training in China.

The aged warrior is not aware of the latest peace agreement signed between the NSCN (I-M) and Government of India and he is also least concerned about the different Naga underground factions that have come up since then.

And nothing else matters for this die-hard NNC warrior.

“I fought under the banner of NNC and whatever I have gone through, it was for a righteous cause and I still havefaiththatI’lldieina‘Free Nagaland’”,Cheno said.

DimApur, mArch 13 (mExN): Ato Kilonser of GPRN/NSCN, N. Kitovi Zhimomi has asked the Chief Minister of Nagaland State, TR Zeliang, to “dissolve” the Nagaland Legislative Assembly “immediately” to lay basis for a “peaceful transition” if the Government was so sure of a solution this time. This would “demonstrate the honesty and integrity” of the legislators.

He noted this to also be the “best practical thing to do” as a “pre-political solution necessity.”

This statement came after the meeting of the Parliamentary Working Committee (PWC) with six Naga political groups at Police Complex Chumukedima on March 9.

It was informed in a press release from the MIP of the GPRN/NSCN that “an honest and fruitful deliberation on past political events, present negative political trend and future consequences in the event of a coersive policy” took place between the Nagaland State legislators and political groups based on an invitation from the

Speaker of Nagaland Legislative Assembly and Chairman of PWC, Chotisu Sazo.

During the course of the interactions, the GPRN/ NSCN stated that the Chief Minister briefed the members on the need to come together and build a future of peace and prosperity. He reportedly admitted that he had not seen the contents of the Framework Agreement signed between NSCN (IM) and the Government of India signed on August 3, 2015 yet “in faith and hope, he was hundred percent sure of achieving solution.” The GPRN/NSCN further reported that the Chief Minister asked the NPG leaders “not to miss the bus this time around.”

The MIP press release implied based on the fact that Congress President did not know the contents of the Agreement that the PWC “were simply doing things hoping to win the next election giving very little thoughts to the future of Nagaland. The possible destruction of Nagaland means nothing to them.”

The NPG leaders, informed the GPRN/NSCN,

“clearly conveyed” to the PWC the “very serious practical erroneous politics being played in the name of the Nagas.”

According to the GPRN/ NSCN, the Framework Agreement is “not acceptable to the people of Nagaland because the destiny of the Naga people cannot be decided by few people behind closed door.”

The MIP also stated that the NPG leaders questioned the PWC as to “how they could, without consulting the stakeholders and without taking the people of Nagaland into confidence, talk of inclusiveness when no positive active action towards the same was initiated anywhere.”

According to the press release, Nagaland State Home Minister Y Patton was “honest enough to admit that the journey to Delhi to garner support to the 3rd August Agreement without consulting the Naga Political Groups was a mistake.

He said that while improving the lives and status Nagas in other areas is not wrong, what is there for Nagas of Nagaland is very important.”

nagaland budget session from tomorrow KohimA, mArch 13 (mExN): A five-day budget session of the Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) will begin on March 15 here. Chief Minister TR Zeliang, who also holds finance portfolio, will present a budget on March 17. According to the provisional programme of business for the eleventh session of the twelfth Nagaland assembly, among the various business, there will be address of the Governor, obituary references and moving of motion of thanks to the Governors address on the first day.

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monDAY 14•03•2016

NAGALAND

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Kekobata: The story of a toilet Morung Express Feature Poilwa | March 13

On a pristine March 11 morning, parents and students in Poilwa village gathered happily at the St. Francis de Sales (SFS) School for a toilet dedication in the school. For outsiders, the idea of dedicating a toilet may sound preposterous; however, for the students and the parents, the construction of a toilet with water facilities is a matter of joy and celebration.

“The toilet is a big thing for us. Cleanliness and good health starts from the toilet. It is our responsibility to build toilets but to even contribute Rs. 1000 is a big amount for the villagers,” said Naukosing Rau, a village elder.

He also mentioned that earlier, the village had received tarpaulins and bamboos from the Nagaland State Government to build toilets for the school children but it did not last long as the tarpaulin tore off.

Another villager said in the absence of a toilet, the school children were compelled to relieve outside the school premises which is surrounded by forests.

This was known to attract Mithuns to intrude inside the school campus often

Social reformer, Vitono Gugu Haralu with elders of Poilwa village, teachers and school children of St. Francis de Sales School at the toilet dedication on March 11

creating chaos, the villager pointed out.

The newly constructed toilets, which is a joint community venture of the people of Poilwa, Asha Frankfurt and Prodigal’s Home was initiated by Vitono Gugu Haralu basing on her personal experience, when during a big celebration in Poilwa, she witnessed the school children urinating in the open.

Although in attendance at the celebration

MEx File Peli no 13 silver jubilee cum Sekrenyi today

were “educated and welldressed people,” what pained Haralu was the fact that these people could not even build a toilet for the children. “It is funny to be dedicating a toilet but that is where our health begins,” Haralu admitted.

Raing Rau, a parent narrated how the whole community had worked together to build the toilet for the children. “The school children were curious when they saw us con-

structing the toilets together. We also maintained that they will not be allowed to use the toilet if they dirty it,” laughed Rau. It took a week for the community to complete the construction with the contribution of almost a hundred volunteers. Each day around 20 to 30 villagers would come to help in the construction.

Haralu recalled how her friends had laughed over the idea of construct-

ing toilets and dedicating it. However, the social reformer who is known for working immensely in rural areas and capacity building among young Nagas, said, “They don’t know because they have never experienced it.”

The toilet is named Kekobata, which in their indigenous language means ‘Work of love’ and in the foundation stone is written, “For the Rights of the Children to live a decent life with dignity and a sense of pride for good health.”

One of the major factors contributing to the health of children is clean and hygienic toilets which can come a long way in reducing the infant mortality rate in Nagaland which stands at 18 percent- considered low when compared to India’s 40 percent mortality rate.

According to a PTI report dated September 25, 2015, a total number of 1128 villages in Nagaland are to become Open Defecation Free (ODF) by March 2018. 246 villages have already reached the mark.

Even though Nagaland has committed itself to end open defecation by 2018, many children in rural Nagaland are still deprived of their basic rights to a toilet.

A Village Guards (VG) personnel on duty during a recent official function at Shilloi Lake, Lutsam under Meluri sub-division of Phek district. Raised on March 1, 1957, the Village Guards is spread in the border villages of Tuensang, Mon, Kiphire, Longleng districts, and Meluri sub-division of Phek district. Morung Photo

UNTABA meeting on March 18

Dimapur, march 13 (mExN): All the members of Executive Committee of the respective Areas/Ranges and the Advisory Board Members of the United Naga Tribes Association on Border Areas (UNTABA) have been informed that a meeting will be held on March 18, 12:00 noon at Book Marc Conference Hall, opposite Naga Shopping Arcade, Dimapur.

A press release from Richard Haolai,

Media In-charge, UNTABA informed that the meeting will deliberate on the Delhi campaign report and future course of action. All members have been requested to attend the scheduled meeting positively. The release further informed that no personal circular regarding the meeting will be dispatched.

For any information, the members may contact the following mobile numbers: 9436826698, 8974024949, 9856326916.

Pledge for Parity: Women's Day Celebration cum Exhibition

Kohima, march 13 (mExN): The Peli No. 13 (Rüsourülou Peli), L. Khel, Kohima village will be celebrating its silver jubilee cum Sekrenyi on March 14, 11.30 am at Merübotsa, L. Khel, Kohima village. Parliamentary Secretary for Youth Resources & Sports, Music Task Force and State Lotteries Khriehu Liezietsu will grace the occasion as the chief guest. Dimapur Deputy Commissioner Kesonyu Yhome, IAS, will also exhort the gathering. The function will be chaired by Kelhouneizo Yhome, while welcome address will be delivered by organizing committee convenor Kelhoukhrietuo Tseikha. Vote of thanks will be proposed by Zapuvizo Liezietsu.

SBI Dimapur Evening Branch relocated Dimapur, march 13 (mExN): The Evening Branch of State Bank of India (SBI) Dimapur has been relocated to First Floor of M/S Raj Canvas Emporium (Near Christian Literature Centre), Nyamo Lotha Road. This was informed in a press release issued by H. Timmy Gangte, Chief Manager, SBI Dimapur Evening Branch.

SBI invites Kohima district customers for interaction

Participants of the Women’s Day Celebration cum Exhibition organized by ACID on March 12 in Dimapur. (Right) Handicrafts being sold during the programme.

Dimapur, march 13 (mExN): Under the theme “Pledge for Parity”, Assisi Centre for Integrated Development (ACID) organised Women’s Day Celebration cum Exhibition on March 12, 2016 at Assisi auditorium, Dimapur.

600 women, representing Self Help Groups (SHGs), Joint Liability Groups (JLGs), and Domestic Workers Group (DWG) from different parts of Dimapur, attended the programme.

A press release from Sr. Therese, Director, ACID

informed that Tiakala, Deputy General Manager, NABARD, Regional Office Dimapur and Imlisashi Jamir, Assistant Labor Commissioner, Department of Labor and Employment, Dimapur graced the event with their presence.

While addressing the gathering, Tiakala highlighted on ‘Role of Women in Social Change’. She stated that women have no time to enjoy enough credit of what they deserve. At the same time, she expressed pride to mention that there are still

Chief Minister to grace Cleanliness drive in govt health facilities in Peren march 13 (mExN): As part of the KSCSU golden jubilee pErEN, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan or Clean India Mis-

Kohima, march 13 (mExN): The Assistant General Manager of State Bank of India, Kohima branch has invited SBI customers of Kohima district to a town hall meeting for open discussion/ interaction about the services rendered to them. The meeting will be held on March 15, from 10:00 am to 12:00 noon at Conclave conference hall, Kohima, march 13 (mExN): Chief Minister TR LCS building, Midland colony, Kohima.

Zeliang will grace the golden jubilee celebration of Kohima Science College Students’ Kohima, march 13 (mExN): A meeting of the mem- Union (KSCSU) on March 16, bers of Legislature Party of Naga People’s Front (NPF) will 11:00 am at Kohima Science College, Jotsoma. be held at the State Banquet Hall, Kohima on March 14 at Jubilee Trust will be formal10:00 am to be followed by the meeting of the Democratic ly launched by Chief Minister Alliance of Nagaland (DAN) Legislature Party at 11:00 am. on the occasion. ParliamenThe meeting has been convened to discuss business mat- tary Secretary for Agriculture ters relating to the 11th session of the 12th NLA, which Dr. Benjongliba Aier, Alumni will be held from March 15 to 19. All the members have Association General Secretary been requested to attend the same.

Avelü, and Dr. N.R. Newmai

DAN legislature party to meet today

will also speak on the occasion.

Greetings will be shared

by Naga Students’ Federation (NSF) President Subenthung Kithan, All Nagaland College Students’ Union (ANCSU) President Zhoku Thuluo and Jotsoma Students’ Union (JSU) President Rokophrezo Rino. Kohima Science College principal Dr. I. Anungla Aier will deliver welcome address. The golden jubilee celebration will be marked by jubilee carnival, jubilee concert and jubilee feast.

sion, a special cleanliness drive was carried out in the District Hospital, Peren, Community Health Center Jalukie and Primary Health Centers of Tening, Mbaulwa, Azailong, Ntuma, Athibung, Poilwa, Heningkunglwa, and Dungki under Peren district from February 15 to 28. A press release from District Media Officer, CMO Office, Peren informed that the above mentioned health units prudently carried out mass social work to ensure that cleanliness is maintained in their respective jurisdiction. The Medical Officers along with the other health workers and staff of the health units sincerely exercised and monitored the Health workers clean the surrounding of Primary Health Center activity, the release added.

Poilwa in Peren during the special cleanliness drive.

Yongchak: A profitable bean for Khuza villagers RSLastpollsdateinofNagaland: withdrawal of candidatures today Our Correspondent Kohima | March 13

(Left) Bunches of Yongchak hanging from the tree. (Right) Yongchak bundled up for sale.

Chizokho Vero Khuza | March 13

Yongchak (tree bean), the value of which was less known by the villagers in the past, is now being cultivated on large scale for commercial purpose in many parts of Nagaland.

Khuza village, located 20 km away from Phek Town, is one of the many villages in Nagaland which has registered large scale Yongchak cultivation.

Chekhüsa from Khuza told The Morung Express that the villagers

women who sacrifice their time playing the role of a leader. Elaborating what Social Change means, she cited the example of Florence Nightingale who sacrificed herself in giving awareness on health and hygiene while attending to the needy. She

asserted that women are the agent of social change and they have a great role to play in the community and the society at large.

Meanwhile, the Assistant Labor Commissioner spoke about the Unorganized Sector Social Security Act 2008. He also mentioned that 94% of employment was created by unorganized sector of workers. He also briefly spoke about different social security schemes like National Old Age pension, widow pension and others.

Cultural items from SHGs, JLGs, and DWGs marked the occasion.

There was also exhibition of handicrafts and traditional items for sale during the programme, which concluded with sports and games, the release said.

were ignorant about the bean earlier, but after realizing its value and huge demand in the market, many farmers are now opting to plant Yongchak as cash crop for alternative income source.

“Yongchak plantation is somewhat like a future investment,” he said, adding that it will go a long way in boosting the economy of the rural populace. Chekhüsa, who himself undertakes large scale plantation of the bean at Khuza village affirmed that Yongchak cultivation is suitable here. Almost all the

villagers grow Yongchak, he said, adding that Yongchak trees are now found in every household’s kitchen garden besides many of the villagers taking up the plantation on large scale. He said the villagers have started reaping positive result as earnings from the Yongchak sale support their children’s education and meet other daily requirements.

On being asked whether the villagers are getting any support from the government on Yongchak plantation, he said they are yet to approach the government. But, he

wished that the agri & allied departments will undertake a comprehensive survey on the prospect of large scale plantation in the village and assist the villagers for a sustainable livelihood through Yongchak.

Maintaining that climatic condition is viable for the bean here, Chekhüsa wanted to see that Khuza is declared as “Yongchak Village” one day.

Presently, the village produces 4 to 7 mini truck load of Yongchak every season and mostly export to neighboring state Manipur.

The last date for withdrawal of candidatures for Biennial Election to the Council of States 2016 for Nagaland as per notification is on Monday (March 14).

It may be mentioned that nomination papers in favour of KG Kenye, sponsored by Naga People’s Front (NPF) from Nagaland has been found valid after scrutiny on Saturday.

“K.G Kenye is the only candidate who filed nomination for the Rajya Sabha seat in Nagaland,” an official of State Assembly Secretariat said on Friday.

The lone Rajya Sabha seat from Nagaland fell vacant following the death of the sitting Member, Khekiho Zhimomi in November last.

Rajya Sabha polls for Nagaland has been scheduled for March 21.

AR’s cycling expedition to be flagged off in Kohima today

Kohima, march 13 (mExN): To commemorate 181st Raising Day of Assam Rifles, a cycling expedition will be flagged-off

by Inspector General Assam Rifles (North) in Kohima on March 14.

Altogether, 10 cyclists from Assam Rifles units of Nagaland will traverse the length and breadth of North-East, highlighting selfless service of Assam Rifles towards unity of the region, a press release received here said.

Assam Rifles is the oldest Para Military force of India and was established by the British in 1835 as ‘Chachar Levy’. In its 181 years, the force has served “with distinction” in all pre and post Independence wars including the two World Wars. The force is presently deployed in North-East India and is responsible for security of the region and its international borders. The Assam Rifles is also actively involved in philanthropic activities directed towards

welfare and development of local population residing in the remote areas, the release highlighted.

The cycling expedition from Nagaland is being organised by 37 Assam Rifles under the aegis of 6 Sector Assam Rifles and will cover a distance of 351 kilometers passing through Dimapur, Manja, Nagaon and Guwahati before reaching Shillong.

Cycling expeditions, similar to that launched from Nagaland, will also be flagged-off from other states of North-East.

All these expeditions will converge in Shillong on March 20.

The expedition symbolizes contribution of Assam Rifles in reaching out to locals and being a part of them, the release said. While traversing the North-Eastern states, the participants will spread the message of ‘Unity in Diversity’ and re-assure the locals that Assam Rifles are ‘Friends of North-East People’ in true sense, it added.

MonDAY 14•03•2016

NORTH-EAST

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

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Moderate quake Sonia asks dissidents not 27 injured in bus accident in Arunachal jolts North East, no casualties reported to hurt Congress in Manipur Imphal, march 13 (IaNS): Congress president Sonia Gandhi is reported to have told 25 "dissident" legislators of the party in Manipur not to rock the party's boat ahead of the assembly polls next year and work for the return of the party to power.

Gandhi did agree, rather vaguely, to their demand for sacking some ministers in the Okram Ibobi Singh government who have had little to show in terms of performance, a source said.

About 25 legislators of the ruling Congress were camping in New Delhi, seeking an audience with Gandhi. However, their "dissidence" has mainly to do with their desire to have a shot at a ministry in the state before it goes to polls next year.

For months, the dissidents have been demanding a major reshuffle so that they could be inducted into the cabinet and some of the current ministers dropped.

One prominent legislator who is confident of getting a ministerial berth said, "We assured the party president of unflinching support to Ibobi Singh so that he becomes the chief minister for the fourth term".

Another dissident told IANS on Sunday that they never demanded a change of leadership as they have full confidence in Chief Minister Ibobi Singh.

Yet another dissident, seeking anonymity, said Gandhi promised them that their demand that Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam Gangmei be either dropped from the min-

istry or stripped of the post of the state Congress president would be looked into.

"Against the 'one man one post' policy, Gaikhagam has been the deputy chief minister with several important portfolios and PCC president all these years. Our party president has assured us to look into it," he said.

Sources close to Gaikhangam, however, told IANS that the party is unlikely to change the years old system when assembly elections are round the corner.

Dissidents target Gaikhangam, a Naga, for another reason: He was one of the Congress legislators who had signed in 2005 a memorandum demanding integration of the "Naga inhabited areas" of Manipur with Nagaland.

ITaNagar, march 13 (pTI): At least at Doimukh located about 30 km from the 27 people, including 20 children, were state capital, overturned at around 8.30 injured when a school bus in which they AM, a police officer said.

The injured were admitted to Heema were travelling turned turtle on NH 415 Hospital and released after first aid. The near Shiv Mandir today.

That could eventually The school bus, on its way to a church driver of the bus was arrested, he said. become an excuse for the dissident Congress legislators to desert the party.

Thus the crisis in Manipur unit of the Congress is still looming.

2012 but lost.

A woman protester Some of the dissident In another incident, a said it was "senseless" on lawmakers had said the hand-grenade was lobbed the part of the assailants to wind in the state now faat a petrol pump in Hatta in explode bombs in residenvoured the Bharatiya Janathe same district in which tial areas and marketplaces ta Party (BJP) and that they an employee was injured since many innocent peomight be looking for greenby shrapnel. ple could have been killed er pastures.

Police also said uniden- and wounded.

Imphal, march 13 BJP state president (IaNS): Thokchom Saty- tified miscreants set ablaze Recently, the public Thounaojam Chaoba has abrata, a BJP leader in the office of the zonal edu- health sub-centre and vetbeen saying that many Manipur, had a narrow es- cation officer at Jiribam in erinary office in Mekola Congress members are ap- cape on Saturday night in a Imphal East district at 11.30 near Imphal had received proaching him for admis- bomb blast at his home in p.m. on Saturday. extortion threats. Womsion into the party. That the state capital, police said Residents and fire- enfolk of the region have may not be entirely an on Sunday. fighters managed to douse been protesting against the empty claim since politiPolice said they were the raging flames before threats. cians and retired bureau- investigating the blast that much damage was done.

Police said an outlawed crats of all hues have been occurred at the leader's A large number of organisation demanded joining BJP. home in Bhagybati Leikai women on Sunday staged a huge amount from the Meanwhile, Ibobi Singh in Imphal West district. sit-in protests condemning heads of the two offices. and Gaikhangam are mainSatyabrata had contest- the bomb blasts in crowded However, nobody has been taining a studied silence. arrested so far. ed the assembly election in places.

Manipur BJP leader escapes bomb blast Women stage sit-in protests; condemn 'senseless' acts

Centre to fastrack implementation 6-fold jump in Mizoram MLAs' pay of 3 hydro plants in Sikkim The three stalled plants - Panan, Teesta VI and Rangit IV - in Sikkim have total generation capacity of 920 Mw

New DelhI, march 13 (pTI): Looking to put back on track three stalled power projects in Sikkim, the Centre this week will meet officials of the state government and PSUs to resolve issues hampering implementation of the proposed plants.

The three stalled plants – Panan, Teesta VI and Rangit IV – in Sikkim have total generation capacity of 920 Mw. "Power ministry has called a meeting this week with top officials of Sikkim and PSUs like NHPC to resolve the key issues plaguing implementation of Panan, Teesta VI and Rangit IV power projects," a senior official told PTI. "Centre has already shown its intent to complete these projects. The three projects have been awarded to private developers. Thus government would have to either incentivise these players or cancel their contracts after paying compensation for their investments," the official added.

The Centre is roping in the Sikkim government as the state has awarded these contracts and is also beneficiary of the projects.

Teesta VI project of 500 Mw is being

implemented by Lanco Teesta Hydro Power Pvt Ltd. On the status of the project, the official said, "The company is saying that they are working on it."

The 300 Mw Panan project is a joint venture of Sikkim government and Himagiri Hydro Energy Private Ltd. The state government was to infuse 26 per cent equity in the project. It is almost stalled.

The Rangit IV project of 120 Mw capacity was awarded to Jal Power Corporation Ltd in 2004.

"The developers are not keen to make further investments because they know that they would not be able to break even soon," the official said.

"They would have to sell power at over Rs 6 per units to recover their investment while power is available at Rs 2-3 per unit at energy exchanges. They will exit the project only when they would get good compensation."

The power ministry recently told Parliament that of 12th Plan hydro capacity addition target of 10,897 Mw, capacity aggregating 4,371 Mw is slipping, and 930 mw capacity is critical to commissioning during the Plan period (till March 31, 2017).

Based on the current status of projects, the likely capacity addition during the 12th Plan is 6,755 Mw, it said.

The factors for this slippage include disruption of works by locals, delay in regulatory clearance, land acquisition issues and poor geology, it added.

aIzawl, march 13 (TNN): The collective wealth of the legislators in the 40-member Mizoram legislature grew by 662.85% in half-a-decade (between 2003 and 2008) while the rate of increase of the wealth of the Parliament members during the same period was 289%, according to the Aizawl-based corruption watchdog, the People's Right to Information and Development Society of Mizoram (PRISM).

PRISM general secretary RL Liantluanga said while the national media was making a big issue of the increase of the MPs' wealth, the rate of increase in the wealth of Mizoram legislators was much higher. He said the increase in Mizoram legislators' wealth during 2008-2013 was 475.84%.

"Being a legislator is more lucrative than owning a gold-mine," he said.

"They have been passing legislations to ensure that they receive extremely high pays, perks and several unreasonable facilities, draining the state exchequer," he said. He

also said this has acted as an incentive for the unscrupulous to join politics, who contest in the elections without any investment in issues plaguing the society.

The PRISM leader said the monthly basic salary and allowances, including constituency, sumptuary, entertainment, family and house rent of the chief minister amounts to Rs 95,000. The speaker is entitled to Rs 90,000, cabinet ministers and leader of opposition get Rs 88,000, and the deputy speaker gets Rs 85,000. The minister of state, the deputy government chief whip and the parliamentary secretary earn Rs 83,000 and legislators get Rs 65,000.

"The chief minister, speaker and ministers receive free telephone, electricity and water supply, and are exempted from local taxes," he said, adding that legislators are given Rs 6,000, Rs 5,000 and Rs 2,500 for telephone, electricity and water charges respectively each month.

They can avail a daily allowance of Rs 750 while undertaking a journey in-

side the state and Rs 1,000 outside the state. They can also avail free travel upto Rs 2 lakh in a year.

The cabinet ministers, speaker, deputy speaker, ministers of state and parliamentary secretaries are provided with expensive cars, drivers, office staff and household peons. All the legislators including ministers and other leaders holding offices can avail extremely low-interest car loans up to Rs 4 lakh each term. The legislators are entitled to a personal assistant, diver and a household peon while the chief minister is entitled to nine (eight since last year) household peons and the speaker six, ministers can hire four (three since last year), the deputy speaker four, ministers of state four (three since last year), and the parliamentary secretary four (three since last year).

All MLAs can avail housing loans up to of Rs 10 lakh in a term and are also entitled to renovation of residences at a cost of Rs 1 lakh in the first year and Rs 50,000 in the succeeding years.

Manipur showcasing traditional lifestyle and food for tourists Iboyaima Laithangbam IANS

In a bid to dispel the image of a state in permanent conflict situations, several individuals and NGOs in Manipur are trying to showcase the northeastern border state to tourists by preserving and promoting its traditional culture and lifestyle.

The state government is preserving the traditional houses of the major communities and tribes which were constructed in Imphal as a part of the tourist festival annually held in November. Due to rapid urbanisation and craze for modern houses, the traditional thatched wood and bamboo houses are now not seen anywhere in Manipur. In the tribal society, people adorn the front walls with skulls and horns of the wild animals killed by them. Such traditional houses will be preserved in the festival site for posterity, officials said.

The Trinamool Congress lawmaker of Andro constituency, Thounaojam Shyamkumar, has announced that he will develop the religious site Chingoi Baruni as a tourist spot, after the state government failed to live up to its promise of developing the place.

"The government has not sanctioned any fund.

People from all walks of life have assured assistance and it will be easy to develop it to a tourist spot," Shyamkumar said.

Also, Motua Bahadur, 55, has opened a small private museum in Imphal

showcasing unique materials from the state and it has become popular with tourists.

UKAL, a non-governmental organisation which acts as a watchdog of the traditional religious affairs, has come down heavily on a section of valley dwellers alleging they were "corrupting and polluting" society by introducing "cheap dances and songs" in their worship.

It has argued that the 'despicable gyrations" would put off seriousminded tourists who want to know the culture and traditional religious practices of the state.

Though the majority of valley dwellers had been forced to become Vaishnavites in the 18th century, they still worship the sylvan gods.

After becoming Vaishnavites, Manipuris had turned vegetarians, refusing to touch egg or chicken even in the privacy of their homes, though many of them still relish fish.

The innovative housewives had developed unmatched culinary skills using various aromatic and delicious herbs, roots and other plants for preparing the unique Manipuri dishes. Modern spices, condiments and other ingredients sold in the shops are still new to most of the housewives.

Manipuris also eat black rice not found anywhere else in the world. It is used to prepare kheer and other items as a special treat for tourists.

About 30 years ago all

hotels used to serve purely vegetarian dishes in the state and the cooks were Brahmins since the Vaishnavites would not touch food prepared by nonBrahmins.

Much to the chagrin of the devout Vaishnavites, the younger generation which is exposed to the outside world, no longer strictly follows the Vaishnava codes of conduct like taking bath before meals.

Vaishnavite girls and women are now seen thronging meat shops while elderly women sell

eggs in the market. This is a far cry from the scenario a few decades ago, when children had to prepare omelettes far away from home and they could return only after taking a bath.

Because of the changed food habit and loosening grip of Vaishnavism, there is not a single hotel now which serves purely vegetarian dishes in its restaurants. Most of the mushrooming eateries have only non-vegetarian items.

Fifty years ago some hotels run by Brahmins

were doing thriving business at Mao, a border town adjacent to Nagaland. Because of extortions and the changed business environment, the hotels at Mao and Dimapur in Nagaland have shut down. Instead roadside cafes serving non-vegetarian items have mushroomed at Chumukedina areas of Dimapur and Sekmai in Manipur.

To cater to the needs of tourists,The ISKCON temple in Imphal and temples of Narsingh, Vijay Govind and other deities now allow visitors and their guides to

attend religious functions like traditional Manipuri weddings and post-death rituals and savour the taste of the age-old dishes cooked on the occasion.

At the temple, with a seating capacity of 1,500 persons, tourists can savour a 25-course vegetarian lunch.

ts Presen

ShIlloNg, march 13 (IaNS): A moderate earthquake, measuring 4.3 on the Richter scale, rocked the northeastern states on Sunday, an official said.

There were no immediate reports of any casualty or damage.

The tremor was felt at 4pm with its epicentre located in Assam’s Darrang district, said an official of the Regional Seismological Centre in Shillong.

Seven of the northeastern states -- Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur -- are considered by seismologists as the sixth major earthquakeprone belt in the world.

In 1897, the region experienced an earthquake measuring 8.7 on the Richter scale that left over 1,600 people dead and wreaked heavy property damage.

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SAINIK SCHOOL, PUNGLWA (NAGALAND) ALL INDIA SAINIK SCHOOLS ENTRANCE EXAMINATION – 2016 FINAL MERIT LIST FOR ADMISSION TO CLASS VI & IX : 2016-17 SESSION For Class VI Roll Nos All India SC: 2084 2132 2134 2037 2038 2100 3008 2091 2127 2085 2103 2119 2039 2040 Wait List – SC: 2101 2102 2118 All India ST : 4049# 2095 4075 4085 4082 4131 4091 Wait List – ST: 5033 4044 4089 4058 4062 Home State (Nagaland) : 3037 3030 2051 3025 3034 3004 2123 2019 2078 2079 3014 3019 3032 3011 2083 3005 3026 2060 3035 2021 3007 2012 2020 3016 3020 2124 3017 2120 3006 3013 3036 3012 2081 2126 1004 3022 2121 3015 2097# 2148 2077 3028 2056 2098 2082 3021 3033 Home State (Nagaland) – Def : Nil Other States (Gen) : 2073 2117 2110 2043 1006 2072 2049 2074 2042 2065 2045 2044 2031 2155 2133 1008 2116 2066 2154 3023 2016 Wait List – Other State (Gen) : 2034 2156 2067 2041 2106 2069 2105 Other States – Def : 2141# 2150 2058 4041 2140 2147

Reporting Date 05 Apr 2016 0730 – 1400 hrs N/A 05 Apr 2016 0730 – 1400 hrs N/A 04 Apr 2016 0730 – 1400 hrs N/A 05 Apr 2016 0730 – 1400 hrs N/A 05 Apr 2016 0730 – 1400 hrs

For Class IX

Roll Nos Reporting Date All India SC : Nil All India ST : 4539 Home State (Nagaland) : 1504 04 Apr 2016 Home State- Def : Nil 0730 – 1400 hrs Other States(Gen) : 4502 4511 4515 4512 Other States- Def : Nil Wait List – OS(Gen)/ST : 4503 4514 4507 N/A Note: 1. Waitlisted candidates are in the order of merit. In case any vacancy arises from the Main Merit List, the same will be filled up by waitlisted candidate strictly in the order of merit only. They are not required to report to School unless specifically called.

2. Admission is subject to Medical Fitness and Verification of all original documents from issuing authority pertaining to Date of Birth, Caste Certificate and Indigenous/Domicile of the candidates. Call letters are being issued individually. However the School assumes no responsibility for late/non receipt of the call up letters by the individuals.

3. Roll Numbers marked as # (hash) were found temporary unfit in Medical Examination. They are to get their medical fitness from MH before they report for admission.

4. At any stage, if it is found that the information/details submitted by the Candidates/Parents/Guardian are false, the Candidature shall stand cancelled.

5. Disclaimer: Due care has been taken to publish the final results accurately through the press media.

However, the result available with the school is final and binding for all purposes.

For details visit School website www.sainikschoolpunglwa.nic.in

4

MonDAY 14•03•2016

Business

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

Micromax, once a rising star, struggles MuMbai, March 13 (reuters): A year ago, Micromax vaulted past Samsung Electronics Co Ltd to become India’s leading smartphone brand. Today, its market share has nearly halved, several top executives have resigned, and the company is looking for growth outside India.

In Micromax’s slide to second place is a tale of the promise and peril of India’s booming but hypercompetitive smartphone industry. India is the world’s fastest-growing smartphone market. Shipments of smartphones jumped 29 percent to 103 million units last year.

Rapid growth has helped nurture a crop of local brands, led by Micromax, that outsourced production to Chinese manufacturers. Now, as Samsung rolls out more affordable phones, the same Chinese factories are entering the Indian market with their own brands, depressing prices and forcing Indian mobile makers to rethink their strategies.

MANAGEMENT TENSIONS Micromax, which was founded in New Delhi by four partners in 2000 but only began selling mobile phones in 2008, built its market share by working

A worker displays a micromax mobile phone inside a store in kolkata. (REUTERS File Photo)

with Chinese manufacturers such as Coolpad, Gionee and Oppo to offer affordable phones quickly.

In 2015, it launched more than 40 new models.

In 2014, the founders brought in outside managers to lead the company at a time when Micromax was challenging Samsung to become the largest mobile phone maker in India.

But tensions arose soon after between founders and the newly hired executives, six former executives told Reuters. These conflicts undermined Micromax’s attempts to raise funds for expansion, say former executives. Last

May, Alibaba walked away from a mooted $1.2 billion purchase of a 20 percent stake, citing a lack of clarity on growth plans, according to one executive involved in the discussion.

Micromax co-founder Vikas Jain said in an interview with Reuters this week that the company and Alibaba disagreed on a future roadmap.

Alibaba declined to comment.

Former executives said the lack of fresh funding undermined a proposal by the new executives to move Micromax’s research and design operations, which had previously been outsourced,

in-house. The move was intended to help Micromax differentiate itself from generic Android clones.

After Alibaba walked away, Micromax struggled to attract other investors who would have been key to Micromax’s plan to invest in software R&D and hardware design. The company was forced to scale down the in-house R&D project, a top executive involved in the fundraising plan said.

At least five senior executives have resigned since November. The latest was Vineet Taneja, chief executive since 2014, who quit last week.

“THE WHOLE INDUSTRY IS SUFFERING” Meanwhile, Chinese handset makers, including Coolpad and Oppo, to which Micromax outsources its manufacturing, were sharpening their focus on India. Samsung, too, began to introduce more affordable models there.

In 2015, Chinese brands doubled their market share to 18 percent, according to Counterpoint Research, taking away business from Indian budget phone makers such as Micromax, Intex, Lava and Karbonn. Indian brands’ market share fell from 48 to 43 percent last year.

“Right now the whole industry is suffering because of the Chinese phones,” Jain told Reuters.

Chinese phone makers including LeEco, Xiaomi and Lenovo have also partnered with e-commerce companies including Amazon India and Flipkart to sell phones directly to consumers, saving on distribution and sales and reaching new online shoppers directly.

In the final quarter of 2015, Micromax’s shipments fell by 12.1 percent, against growth of 15.4 percent for the sector, according to industry tracker IDC. Micromax’s share of the smartphone

market fell to 13 percent in the fourth quarter from 22 percent at its peak in 2014, according to IDC. Micromax, which is privately held and does not disclose financial information, maintains it is profitable. Founders Jain, Rahul Sharma, Rajesh Agarwal and Sumeet Arora still control about 80 percent of the company.

They have raised nearly $90 million from investors in the last five years.

Facing competition from both Samsung and inexpensive Chinese phones, Micromax plans to increase production in India. Jain said that the company plans to double local manufacturing output from 1.5 million units to about 3 million units a month over the next six to 12 months.

Already a top-10 brand in Russia, Micromax is seeking a partner to help it expand further outside India and diversify into televisions and tablets.

“Micromax needs to diversify geographically and also needs to diversify product lines,” said Neil Mawston, executive director of the global wireless practice at London-based research consultancy Strategy Analytics. How well it manages that diversification, Mawston says, will be key.

Hope to pass GST, bankruptcy bills in budget session: Jaitley New Delhi, March 13 (iaNs): The government hopes to enact the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and bankruptcy bills in the second half of the budget session of parliament beginning April 20, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said on Sunday.

“The current session of parliament has already seen one landmark legislation two days ago. And I do hope to see another two being passed in the second part of the session with regard to the bankruptcy and insolvency laws and GST,” he said, addressing the Advancing Asia Conference here.

“We are trying to have special emphasis now both in terms of legislative changes and resources be-

ing put to strengthen the banking system. I do feel that next few months, in bringing about structural change, are going to be extremely important,” he added. Parliament passed the Aadhaar Bill last week, providing legal cover to the unique identification number (UID) system facilitating cash subsidy transfer and benefits to identified recipients.

The bill for a pan-India GST for a thorough reform of India’s indirect tax regime has been passed by the Lok Sabha, but is stalled in the Rajya Sabha, where the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA) lacks a majority.

LAND FOR SALE

TEACHER WANTED

New Delhi, March 13 (iaNs): The RBI efforts to deal with the state-run banks’ huge non-performing assets (NPAs) or distressed loans are steps in the right direction, International Monetary Fund (IMF) managing director Christine Lagarde said on Sunday.

“The (move of) Reserve Bank of India governor (Dr Raghuram Rajan) addressing bank balance sheets is absolutely right,” she said at the Advancing Asia conference here, co-hosted by the union government and the IMF. Lagarde said the Indian government was also moving to get a bankruptcy and insolvency law enacted to address the bad loans problem.

Addressing the conference earlier on Sunday, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said the government hopes to enact the bankruptcy and solvency as well as the Goods and Services Tax bills in the second half of the budget session of parliament beginning April 20.

The NPAs of public sector banks (PSBs) have increased by close to Rs.1 lakh crore in the first nine months of the current fiscal, parliament was told earlier this week.

“The gross non-performing assets of the PSBs increased from 5.43 percent as of March 2015 to 7.30 percent as of December 2015,” Jaitley told the Rajya Sabha in a written reply.

In money terms, gross NPAs of state-run banks increased from Rs.2,67,065 crore in March 2015 to Rs.3,61,731 crore in December 2015, he said, which was an increase of Rs.94,666 crore over nine months of the current fiscal.

Meanwhile, Lagarde told reporters here on Sunday that the central American nation of Cuba has not yet made a request for IMF membership, and that such a request will be considered in accordance with the norms of the multilateral lending agency.

Cuba was one of the founding members of the IMF until it left the organisation in 1964, following crisis with the US.

Direct benefit transfer of fertiliser subsidy soon: Official New Delhi, March 12 (iaNs): A day after the Lok Sabha approved a bill according statutory backing to Aadhaar, a finance ministry official on Saturday said direct benefit transfer (DBT) of fertiliser subsidy will be rolled out soon.

“DBT on fertilizer subsidy will be done in a slow and calibrated manner without creating any disruption or without creating any difficulties,” said Economic Affairs Secretary Shaktikanta Das on the margins of Advancing Asia conference.

According to Das, DBT on fertiliser subsidy will bring efficiency in administration and governance and noted that the bill was passed within 11 days announcing the budget.

He said the new move will be a game-changer ensuring the benefits to reach the deserving and preventing leakage and transmission losses.

However, Das could not give a figure to the quantum of savings that DBT fertiliser subsidy will bring but said a good amount would be saved.

Birthday Greeting Dear Birthday boy (Moasunup) Many happy returns of the day!!

Every day is a gift.

Unwrap it.

Celebrate it.

Enjoy it.

Happy birthday!!

FROM “NEWIANS”

North East gets Vodafone’s 3G network Our Correspondent

over 1500 new 3G cell sites across the region and continues to add more towers.

Commenting on the 3G network expansion, Alok Verma, Business Head- Assam & North East Circle, Vodafone India said, “With the launch of the our own 3G network, customers across these towns can now avail faster, smarter, better speeds and superior data browsing experience at the existing 3G tariffs.” “ We acquired 3G spectrum in March 2015 auctions and have made significant investments

Kohima | March 13

Vodafone India, one of India’s leading telecommunications service providers, has announced the expansion of Superfast 3G services on its own network to more than 78 towns across Assam & North East.

This modern and technology efficient 3G will offer citizens a faster, smarter and better mobile internet experience with good speed and seamless connectivity. Vodafone has so far activated

leisure

of Rs. 500 crores in Assam & North East Circle to provide high speed mobile internet services to our valued customers.

We will continue to expand in a phased manner to cover more geography across Assam & North East, thereby bringing in further investments in the region,” he added.

Vodafone, as part of its own 3G network rollout has now covered key towns in Assam & North East like Itanagar, Bomdila, Tawang, Along, Basar, Bhalukpong, Dirang, Changlang, Palin & Seppa

Daily Cross WorD ACROSS 1. Light gusts of air 6. dispatched 10. monster 14. deck 15. Balm ingredient 16. Blockage 17. Featureless 18. Finest 19. Carryall 20. Soothsayer 22. Colored part of an eye 23. devil tree 24. Fervent 26. Wanes 30. Poetic dusk 31. Fitting 32. Protective ditch 33. Fortitude 35. A loud sleeping sound 39. Whole number 41. It holds cigarette debris 43. Backward-looking 44. Sodium chloride 46. Skin disease 47. N N N N 49. Regret 50. Falls behind 51. Vascular tissue in plants 54. With competence 56. Plunder 57. mating of related people 63. Catch a glimpse of 64. 53 in Roman numerals 65. Eagle’s nest 66. horn sound 67. French for “State” 68. British biscuit 69. Being 70. declare untrue 71. Notes DOWN 1. dad 2. Website addresses 3. male undergrad social club

CROSSWORD # 3531

SUDOKU

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

Game Number # 3518

Answer Number # 3517

HealtHy Foods WATERmELON

PEAS

APPLES

PEAChES

gRAPES

PINEAPPLES

PEARS

JUICE

WATER

NUTS

VEgETABLES

CEREAL

FRUITS

BEANS

WhOLEWhEAT

CELERY

FISh

CARROTS

SALAdS

ORANgES

CUCUmBERS

BANANAS

BROWNRICE

mANgO

BROCCOLI

in Arunachal Pradesh; Kohima & Dimapur in Nagaland; Shillong, Tura, Nongpoh, Jowai & Ladrimbai in Meghalaya; Aizawl in Mizoram; Agartala & Teliamura in Tripura; Imphal in Manipur; and Guwahati, Tezpur, Jorhat, Silchar, Bongaigaon, Dibrugarh, Nagaon, Tinsukia, Lakhimpur, Nalbari, Digboi, Morigaon, Goalpara, Mangaldoi, Rangia, Duliajan, Margherita, Biswanath Chariali, Barpeta, Sibsagar, Nazira, Moran, Dhekiajuli, Hojai, Lanka, Mariani in Assam.

W

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V g I F R Q d W S A N A N A B B O J X h

C g C k F V E L O S A A Q N Q U g F N R

I V h C k d N N T U I h Q P O Z I T N F

R

V J R P A U V P R g U S W Z k A k U F B

E L O N R J X S R S E A N J N P R B T h

D

d E O P h X k O A h T d B k g O X W Y N

I B R O W N R I C E X I k O g R A P E S

S

g A W P R F V A R d P Y g J A A I I X k

L A g h g Z E m A B C R I N B N Q R R Y

E

m A N g O P E O J I E U d W E g A X O L

P W m N V L S F A T R J C A I E Y I X T

4. Reasonable 5. Church council 6. Traitors 7. Chic 8. Schnozzola 9. Foursome 10. Not oriental 11. menacing look 12. kino gum 13. Excrete 21. Feudal lord 25. hurry 26. Arab chieftain 27. Part of a skeleton 28. Insulation 29. mental representation 34. healthfulness 36. killer whale 37. Telephoned 38. Visual organs 40. departed 42. Inscribed pillar 45. high-spirited horse 48. grinned 51. Academy freshman 52. Flexible tubes 53. Runs 55. It makes dough rise 58. Anagram of “Tine” 59. A style of design 60. Weightlifters pump this 61. 3 times 3 62. g g g g

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kOhImA

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WE4WOmEN hELPLINE 08822911011

F R F N X U L W P E A P J J m h E I T J

R I V J T O P S h L L I k R h B Q Y U R

Z S S R A E P A V E g E T A B L E S O J

C

I V T h B E A N S R A I L O C C O R B F

k W P I B Y P A I Y P T L S d A L A S I

H

T N Z E U g R B g V Z J T F Q A I Y Y O

k d g h d R N Y O P d U E I O Z S U L S

O Z d g P Y F F L E N Z Z A Q S X Y L V

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kIPhIRE: 8414853767 (o) 9436261577 (oC) PEREN: 7085189932 (o) 9856311205 (oC) LONgLENg: 7085924113 (o) 9862414264 (oC)

Toll free No. 1098 childline

R

KoHIMA SoUTH: 0370-2222952/ 101 (o) 9402003086 (oC)

MoN: 03869-251222/ 101 (o) 9862130954 (oC)

ChILd WELFARE COmmITTEE

mOkOkChUNg:

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

ANSWER TO CROSSWORd 3530

A

Y U F L O L E F A C E J P U L S C m P L

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Contact: 9615221558

ESTD.2003

RBI moves on banks’ bad loans in right direction: IMF chief

VACANCY

STd COdE: 0369

Police Station 1:

2226241

Police Station 2 :

2226214

Civil Hospital: Woodland Nursing Home:

2226216 2226263

Hotel Metsüpen (Tourist Lodge):

2226373/2229343

TAHAMzAM (formerly Senapati) STD CoDE: 03871 Police Station: Fire Brigade

CURRENCY NOTES

222246 222491

BUY(Rs)

SELL(Rs)

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

65.72 93.54 8.19 48.72 47.4 49.22 57.9

68.69 98.09 9.12 51.13 49.71 51.64 61.18

Euro

72.34

75.85

Thai Baht Korean Won UAE Dirham (AED) Chinese Yuan

1.79

2.00

0.0526

0.0587

17.31

19.29

9.77

10.88

MondAY 14•03•2016

NAGALAND

consumer rights organisation launched in Tseminyu TAJCF threaten indefinite bandh Dimapur , march 13 (mExN): The Tseminyu SubDivision Voluntary Consumers’ Organisation (TSDVCO) was officially declared by the Addl. Deputy Commissioner, Tseminyu, Vikhweno M. Meratsu at Tseminyu Town Hall on March 12.

As a part of the ‘World Consumer Rights Day’ celebration, the Nagaland Voluntary Consumers’ Organisation (NVCO) initiated the launching of TSDVCO, a press note from Press & Media Cell, NVCO informed.

According the NVCO, the programme was launched in capacity packed gathering with students, Church leaders, social organizations, Gaonburas(GBs) as well as common people. The NVCO team led by its President Kezhokhoto Savi, public organisations led by the presidents of Rengma Hoho, Rengma Mothers Association and Rengma Youth Organisation (Rengma Selozi) attended the event.

It further informed that while initially a consumer forum was formed mainly to fight against the total failure of electricity services in Tseminyu Sub-Division, the pres-

ent entity was formed at the advice of NVCO and named TSDVCO after dissolving the former. Led by President John Semy as President, the full fledged team was also installed at the event.

Speaking at the occasion, ADC Vikhweno M. Meratsu exhorted the gathering and said her office will be conducting an essay competition in all the schools within Tseminyu Sub-Division on March 15 on the topic – ‘Rights and Duties of a Consumer’ to mark the occasion of ‘World Consumers’ Rights Day.’ The Presidents of all frontal organisations of Tseminyu also expressed their happiness for the formation of TSDVCO and assured to extend their full support as every person is a consumer, NVCO also noted.

All the frontal organisations complained about deplorable road conditions with dust causing huge unhealthy lives to the citizens, bad electricity and water supply and so on and pointed out that it was a huge failure on the part of public authorities.

NVCO President & Convenor ACAUT Nagaland (legal cell)

AR recover arms at inter-state border Dimapur, march 13 (mExN): The Assam Rifles today said it has recovered a large cache of arms and ammunition from outskirts of Ngam, a village bordering Assam-Nagaland-Manipur in the wee hours of March 11. It included one 303 rifle, one 9mm Pistol, one .22 rifle and three 12 Bore rifles along with ammunition.

According to a press note from PRO Assam Rifles, the items were recoverd when the troops of 18 Assam Rifles launched an operation in general area of Ngam Village on March 10 and 11 after information regarding repeated harassment and extortion activities by various armed groups in the villages bordering Assam-Nagaland-Manipur.

A temporary hideout and transit location being used by armed group has been destroyed by the Assam Rifles, it added.

Kezhokhoto Savi highlighted the mechanism to run the voluntary consumer organisation in Tseminyu as provided under the Consumer Protection Act, 1986 and stressed on the importance of consumer education as several states has already introduced Consumer Education as a subject in schools with formation of Consumer Clubs in school.

Consumer can also access and register their grievances at Nagaland State Consumer Toll Free Helpline No. 1800-345-3701 during office working hours for any query related to consumer complaint, he added.

Commenting on the controversial order issued by the Deputy Commissioner Mokokchung recently, Savi said no civil society “happily or voluntarily” take initiative against the illegality or corruption, but are prompted to act because the public authorities who are responsible do so remain a “silent spectators” and in some cases also involve in it.

“The recent order issued by the DC Mokokchung may be correct in the legal perspective but the order

1

Gospel Centre launched at Pfustero Dimapur, march 13 (mEXN): A gospel centre that stores Bibles and books related to Christian literature and theological studies, Christian music CDs, merchandise related to Christianity etc was launched at Mission Colony, Pfustero Town in Phek district on March 7.

Kuvelu Gospel Centre, a first of in kind in Pfustero town was established in memory of Lt.. Kuvelu Nienu wife of Er. Vikholie Nicene, who passed away earlier this year, a press note informed.

The centre will have special privileges and discounts for those theological students who are not able to afford to buy books in pursuing their studies, it added.

The centre will also provide employment opportunities for those having theological education.

moN, march 13 (mExN): One day training for frontline workers like Anganwadi workers and helpers, ASHA workers, Aadhaar and community volunteers was jointly organized with a special outreach programme on centrally sponsored schemes by the World Vision and Ministry of Information & Broadcasting Field Publicity Unit, Mon at Totok Chingnyu Baptist Church on March 11.

Nockyam Wangnao, CDF, WVI, Mon AP briefed on the joint training programme and appealed to the village leaders and health workers to know their respective duties and responsibility to build a healthy society. While briefing on various centrally sponsored schemes such as Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, Beti Bachao/ Beti Padao etc., Field Publicity Officer (FPO/DFP) Mathew SK Bengam in his speech said that the Directorate of Field Publicity is the

Dimapur, march 13 (mExN): The Home Minister of Nagaland, Y Patton has expressed his sadness to learn about the demise of Takatula, mother of Dr SC Jamir, Governor of Odisha and former Nagaland Chief Minister; SI Jamir, Adviser, Urban Development; and grandmother of C Apok Jamir, Parliamentary Secretary of Tourism, on March 12 at Dimapur. She was 103 and survived by 4 sons, 3 daughters, 31 grandchildren and 52 great-grandchildren.

In a condolence note received here, Patton said Late Takatula had lived her full life and as God-fearing person.

“She remained humbled and her life itself a message to all” he noted adding that “In her death, Aos lost a true mother in particular and the Nagas in general and the void created by her death will be difficult to fill.’

I joined by my wife convey our heartfelt condolences to sons and daughters of late Takatula and pray to Almighty Lord to grant them strength at this hour of grief, Patton added.

May the Almighty Lord grant peace to the Departed Soul, he further said.

Nuklutoshi: The Minister for National Highways and Mechanical Engineering, Nuklutoshi, has expressed shock at the passing away of Takatula.

In a condolence message today, the Minister said it was amazing to note that late Takatula had given births to Dr SC Jamir, Governor of Odisha and the former Chief Minister of Nagaland, besides her other son, SI Jamir, who is also Adviser, Urban Development, Nagaland and grandson, C Apok Jamir, Parliamentary Secretary, Tourism. God had showered blessings upon her to have such tall Naga leaders who had become the household names in the history of the Nagas, he said.

Nuklutoshi said that in her long journey of life, she had shown humanity and simple life and gave her best to her children. Her life had become an inspiration to Naga males and women.

In her death, an inspirational mother to the Nagas in general and Aos in particular has been lost. The void created by her death will be difficult to fill, the Minister said.

Conveying his condolences to the bereaved family members of late Takatula, the Minister prayed to Almighty God to grant solace to the family members at this hour of sorrow. May the departed soul rest in peace, he prayed.

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Dimapur, march 13 (mExN): The Tuli Area Joint Council Forum has informed that it will call for an indefinite strike in Tuli area from March 25, if the State Government does not respond positively to the memos submitted to Chief Minister and others regarding the revival package for Nagaland Pulp & Paper Company Ltd. (NPPCL) or Tuli Paper Mill.

In a press note, the TAJCF President O Benjung Jamir informed that during its

meeting held on February 17, the council had resolved to write to the Chief Minister and other concerned officials to take a decision regarding the revival plan of the mill within 30 days.

Stating that till now, the state government has not given any response to its letters, the Council said that if there is no positive response by March 24 (on which the 30 days period end), it will impose infinite strike from March 25 within Tuli jurisdiction.

NSO issues clarification Dimapur, march 13 (mExN): With regard to the news item ‘Naga Hoho-ENPO peace mission report surprising: NLD, Naga Region’ published on February 28, the Naga Students' Organization (NSO) has clarified that its appreciation to Naga Hoho and ENPO Peace team to Myanmar was only to support/cooperate any movement related to peace mission wherever,

whenever and it had no other intention.

NSO in a clarification issued by its General Secretary, T. Mankhat Konyak further said that it had mentioned MPs, Naga Yuya leaders, senior Naga leaders, Kyaw Win Swe and Myanmar Peace Committee Vice Chairman because the peace team met them as they were informed.

The NSO also said it has taken serious note of

the “caution” of Chairman, NLD Naga Region to NSO. “We never expect and it is one of the hardest things to believe that our leader will warn us (his voters, his public) for we support peace process," NSO said.

Meanwhile, the NSO asked the Chairman of NLD Naga Region to declare/clarify whom he means by "genuine Naga" as per his statement in the last paragraph.

NYK organize Neighbourhood Youth Parliament in Wokha

Wokha, march 13 (mExN): Nehru Yuva Kendra (NYK) organized Neighborhood Youth Parliament at Niroyo village in Wokha district on the topic “Government schemes and the role of youth in nation building” with Tsenbenthung Khuvung, CO, AXIS Bank, as the resource person.

A press release from Alex Humtsoe, NYK Volunteer, Wokha, informed that the resource person highlighted the flagship PIC 1: Singer Kalpana Patowary performs at a concert organized by Nagaland Bhojpuri programmes of the government. He stressed particuSamaj in Dimapur on Sunday, March 13.

PIC 2: Manoj Tiwari, Member of Parliament from North East Delhi addresses at the larly on Digital India, Skill concert. (Photo by Caisii Mao)

HM Patton saddened

by Takatula’s demise

was issued at the wrong time and this kind of order may discourage the civil societies to contribute towards Good Governance as a democratic state keeping in mind government for the people, by the people and of the people,” he mainitaned.

A book entitled, “The impact of RTI in Nagaland for the last ten(10) years” was also released at the event and the NVCO President advised the gathering to learn the usages of RTI in the right manner and not to use the same for harassment or for personal gain.

The citizen, through RTI can easily check the corrupt practices of the village authority or government departments such as MNERGA or distribution of items such as rice, kerosene, sugar, wheat meant for BPL or APL or under Public Distribution System and funds meant for public infrastructural development, he further noted.

The note further informed that NVCO President would be addressing teachers on the topic – “Be a Smart Consumer” at State College of Teacher Education(NCTE), Nagaland on March 14.

India, Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Mudra Bank, MGNREGA, Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao Abhiyan, Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan, and Atal Pension Yojana.

The resource person encouraged all participants to be aware of all the government schemes available and take good advantage of the programmes. He also encouraged the youth to take part in decision making as well as to be a responsible person in the society and contribute something as nation building process starts from the grassroots

level. Tsenbenthung further urged them to focus and utilize their skills to make their livelihood and to be satisfied with what they already have, the release said.

IYRE Director, Wokha, Ethel Ngullie highlighted the core of life skills and the main objectives of NYKS. Alex Tsopoe chaired the programme, while R. Nzanbeni Humtsoe gave the welcome speech, and Renbeni Tsopoe delivered the keynote address.

Altogether 48 participants and invitees attended the programme.

Training for frontline workers at Totok mediator and communicator between the Central Government and the public.

He said the joint programmes of the World Vision, Social Welfare Department, NRHM and Field Publicity have the same mission to work for community development and urged the participants to disseminate the information to the people back at home. He also distributed T/shirts to all the participants. Speaking on the duties and functions of the Anganwadi workers and helpers, CDPO Mon Tongwang Konyak said that Anganwadi centre should not be a center of distribution of foodstuffs but should be a center of all-round development of a child before schooling.

Anganwadi workers and helpers, ASHA workers, Aadhaar and community volunteers, pastors and other village Under the aegis of New Market Area Panchayat (NMAP), a mass social work was orgafunctionaries attended the training pro- nized in New Market, Kohima on Saturday. Several hundred volunteered in the social work, according to a report. gramme, the release informed.

Public SPace

I

n the background of the harmonious musical violin being played, Dr. Ravi Zacharias, in his audio sermon, "Creedal Affirmation," gave this powerful statements, "The world has heard long enough how the blood of Christ saves us from the guilt of sin, the world is also watching us to see if it saves us from the power of sin...

How important it is that somewhere your life touches somebody else's life not just that they hear but that they see and feel your Christianity within your own bonds."

How true! With the approaching of Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday, the topic on Christ's death, burial and resurrection will soon be sounded in the pulpits of our Churches again. Yes, Christianity hinges its foundation on this indispensable work of the Lord Jesus Christ on the Cross. This message has changed individuals, societies, tribes and nations immensely. But with the gradual years of being Christianized by the Western missionaries, this glorious message has become somewhat ineffective and unmoving for so many in the pews. What matters most is that the Cross of Christ should not be trampled upon with irreverence and mocked by others because Christians represent that Cross of Christ as a go-between people and God. Therefore, these Holy days are not to be merely a day of commemorating a dead Christ or in discoursing theoretically about what the Lord has done for human race but in propelling the believers beyond the knowledge of Christ's work.

The world is watching us to see if these religiosities of ours have any significant outcome in our lives, families and society. The debunking of the idea of God's love for mankind shown in the person of

What changed the World?

Jesus Christ is primarily due to the failure of Christians to exhibit the true nature of Christianity. I do not demean the preaching of the gospel verbally but if this gospel only ends in the pulpit, it is not worth a dime. Who will buy it? The gospel that people are crying for is the practical evidence of the power of Christ in the lives of believers. Glancing through the history of Christianity and reading the lives of dedicated missionaries, there was one thing in common that made the difference. It was love in action, It was truth in action. It was justice in motion. It was not the promotion of a Church or a denominational affiliation but the uplifting of people's condition and predicaments. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love. It was the light and love that people saw in the message of Christ. The Book of Life emitted through not only in words but in the lives of missionaries that gave light to their eyes. It was that, that brought people to the true knowledge of God. In the book, "The Book that Transforms Nations" by Loren Cunningham, the YWAM founder, the writer describes poignantly, "No country is too hard, too poor, too filled with their Christian religion. The whole truth is too hard for them to digest and so the only way to escape these bags of duties is to leave some uncomfortable portions of the biblical truths and cling on to some that suit their lifestyles. That kind of Christian living costs them nothing and they flow with the motion. Nominalism is birthed right out of that. That’s the picture of the many Christians in our society, as we see it.

Now, the burden to seek and search for the one lost coin and sheep is not

found in many yearly church agendas. It is only filled with this and that special progammes. Everyone is busy, busy building their own kingdom, not God’s. The reaching out to the least fortunate people and the sick with financial and material blessings is only seen in pictures and magazines. What about biblical secret giving?

The form of godliness with outward appearances but devoid of power in Christian living has become a mockery to Christ and His kingdom. And we're all equally guilty here. That's the reason why the introspection and questioning of our own faith is to be evaluated and judged. For it is time for judgment to begin with the family of God and this judgment will bring to light in understanding what the Church truly stands for. The societal reforms, I believe, should be initially embarked by the Churches. The attitude of 'wait and watch for God to bolt out of heaven" won't happen unless God's children wake up and take up their own given responsibilities. The discipleship of believers in setting a biblical standard in their workplaces and professions is the way to go. The Churches should lead the way in the process of building the nation, not government. The role is gigantic but achievable with God on our side.

With the commemoration of Christ's work on human's behalf, the Christians will remain ever grateful to our Saviour.

The love and justice of God executed in the Son of God, witnessed publicly by the Roman world gave the impetus to the disciples to turn the world upside-down. Now, it was the bloody Cross that drove many saints to the gallows and being martyred for Christ. That's why the impact of this message felt upon the listeners was one

which was persuasive enough for people to embrace the unpopular Christ. It was nailed with genuine love and truth. For centuries, this news has travelled far and wide to places and believed by innumerable nations in the midst of severe persecutions and resistance, why? Because there was always a mixture of preaching the truth and living it out. That was what revolutionised the nations.

Today, the Church needs to exemplify and embody the truth of God's word in practical living. The Church should also strive for the highest good in leading the world and not vice-versa. It should bring to fruition of all round developments in societal reforms, political arenas, education, women empowerment, environmental issues and natural habitats, etc. The world will only know the love of Christ when we step out of the institutionalised comfortable buildings. Notice that it was Jesus stepping out of his heavenly abode to become one of His own creations. He went beyond the moral teachings and preaching in His ministry. He chose to give His all for the salvation of mankind. It was that extravagant sacrificial love that captured the hearts of the disciples to follow in the footstep of their Master. The Christians, therefore, has no other option except to follow the Same principal laid out in the holy writ.

Apostle Peter wrote, “To this you called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example that you should follow in his steps,” may we follow our Lord’s example in following His footsteps bringing a change to the world! God bless.

Vebu Khamo, Kohima Bible College

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

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MonDAY 14•03•2016

IN FOCUS

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

The Power of Truth

The Morung Express volume Xi issue 71

By Aheli moitra

Dear ‘chappies’

C O M M E N T A R Y

Anne Marie Goetz opendemocracy

Madam Secretary-General?

Y

ou want to hear this story.

Couple of days back, right after the international observance for gender equity had passed (on March 8), a Naga ‘chappie’ posted a public comment on Facebook bringing to futility every program in the State honouring women for achieving social equity, justice and parity in their context.

The post, while bringing to attention a nice phone and watch a “non local” chappie had gained access to while being just a vehicle mechanic, had more than envy of big things. Since the mechanic had the presumable money and control of the Naga economy thus, the young leader stated that “our women” (i.e. Naga women) will flock to “these people” (non Naga people) because, hey, “money talks.” Unabashedly drawing the argument to a close, he called upon all Naga ‘chappies’ to “take control of our own economy,” and in effect, “our women.”

More than 600 “educated” people have ‘liked’ the post till now.

Two points here: First, non Naga people always had more money than Naga people. There is nothing surprising about this given that Naga people have remained on the margins of world economy.

White people of the west, Brahmins and neo Brahmins of the east and all such historically advantaged classes hold vast majority of the planet’s monetary wealth. They also control most of the world’s economy sitting on the shoulders of middle income taxpayers. Naga legislators and bureaucrats have dipped their feet in this pool and made thousands of fancy phones and watches out of it. No policies have been made to protect the drain of Naga economy. To begin with, thus, economic control means political control of these classes.

Second, Naga men do not own Naga women. The latter have far more control of their lives and markets than Naga men do. Lakhs of Naga women wilfully marry underprivileged Naga men with no prospect of wealth—lovingly they build lives together. So where does the argument that “our women will mostly go for these people since they have THE money and we DON’T” even come from? Is there a numeric or logical basis to this? Or is it prejudice on the part of an oppressor to dehumanise the oppressed (much like the common Indian prejudice that Naga people live in jungles)?

The argument comes from the social and political control of women’s bodies and minds that patriarchy has always promoted—that the lives of women are governed by the choices of men (in this case money and economy that has come to rule the imagination of Naga men). Through its heightened sense of insecurity, it has reduced women to objects of history, politics or the economy instead of active participants, taking away agency that every woman as a product of her social upbringing is endowed with.

Beyond the realms of the State though, in majority of rural or urban Naga households, women put in more than double the labour of men, take care of their families and then sit in markets (selling vegetables to second hand clothing) securing their economic independence. There are some who run their own money lending or other rackets. But women own a negligible portion of the wealth that Naga men own and govern over. They are not even allowed to think or take action to reverse this injustice. So where does the real problem lie?

The political sovereignty to decide that a marketplace should also provide mothers with childcare facilities/schools remains missing because Naga men are in charge of such policies that never get made. This keeps women permanently peripheral. Little do they realise that getting women into policy making could translate into decisions that make the Naga economy further independent and self governed. It is the inequities promoted by men that have hindered the process.

Social and political equity and justice through human rights for all creates the onus for freedom and peace. The constant hammering of the fear of an outsider, or how “our women” are running to “them,” has misled male-dominated societies for centuries, keeping them in a constant state of violent conflict. It is time to begin examining how Naga women are making sovereign choices, within or outside traditional windows, and slowly, but surely, coming to reign their destiny.

This is not for you to control, own or oppress.

In solidarity with women, moitramail@yahoo.com

lEfT wiNg |

Words and Us Culture Tradition Sincerely preserve To apportion the meat And keep women in their place.

Projects Progress Development Justice Prohibition Reconciliation Very impressive on paper.

Unions Nation Independence Sovereignty Unification Best fund-raising themes.

Politics Factions NGO Prayer-centre Church Most lucrative investments.

Truth Honestly Sincerity Transparency Accountability Strictly applies to non-locals.

100% tax Inflation Corruption Discrimination Intimidation Rape Murder Our staple-diet.

Such words to remove from us Such to reclaim and redeem For us to sift and secure.

For in the beginning is the word And the word become flesh And dwell among us.

For such power be invested in the word With which He created all That surely it can heal That which is ruptured among us.

Lea

U

With pressure mounting for the next UN Secretary General to be a woman, is it too much to ask that she also be feminist?

nited Nations Secretary-General Ban kiMoon’s second (and last) five-year term expires on December 31st 2016. Roughly every ten years, the vexed question arises of how to identify a good leader for the job of the world’s chief diplomat. This important process remains a mystery to the global public, and even to many within the UN. This time around a new factor is in play: unprecedented pressure to pick a woman for the job.

There are plenty of women with the experience and background – as diplomats, politicians, and international civil servants – to be selected. A civil society Campaign to Elect a Woman UN Secretary-General (of which I am a member) offers weekly profiles of women leaders from around the world who might be considered. Known in hashtag-speak as #she4SG, the campaign has highlighted the glaring and persistent gender imbalance in top UN leadership, and argues that,after more than 70 years and eight male Latin America and the Caribbean; and Susanna MalSGs in a row, it is high time a woman is selected. corra, currently Argentina’s foreign minister and former Chef de Cabinet for UN Secretary-General Ban Lack of clarity about the selection process Determining whether any of the women who ki-Moon. None of these women have been officially could be considered for the post possesses the requi- nominated. Countries outside Eastern Europe have site qualifications is difficult because the SG’s job de- been holding back. But the February 29 nomination scription is vague at best. At a minimum, the SG must by Portugal of Antonio Guterrez, formerly the UN’s oversee a sprawling bureaucracy and build consen- High Commissioner for Refugees, may encourage sus among UN member-states on how to overcome other countries beyond Eastern Europe to step fornarrow national interests to advance the UN’s three ward with nominations.

Though Russia has already signaled its preferkey objectives: maintaining international peace and security, promoting social and economic develop- ence for an Eastern European – code for its intention ment, and securing respect for human rights. In the- to veto any others – conceivably no consensus candiory, the SG should possess a demonstrated commit- date from the region will emerge. Russia has uncomment to justice, equality, and the rule of law, as well fortable relationships with many Eastern European as the charisma, courage, and diplomatic skill to re- countries, especially those that have joined NATO or alize a bold vision for a better world. But virtue and the EU. For instance, Russia is said to have issues with command power are not, in practice, the qualities Georgieva because of her role as an EU official in the imposition of sanctions following Russia’s intervenchiefly valued. Inoffensiveness is.

The most powerful UN member-states, who have tions in Ukraine. That Georgieva has issued conciliaan outsize influence on the selection process, would tory signals regarding the potential lifting of sanctions prefer someone without particularly strong views or may indicate her interest in courting Russia’s suppolitical attachments. The search for the lowest com- port, though this may be looked upon with disfavor mon denominator weeds out anyone who may have by France, the UK and the US. Candidates with a good stood up and spoken out. And, since it is the UN, a relationship with Russia, such as UNESCO head Bocandidate’s region of origin matters. Because no SG kova, have triggered criticism by American conservahas ever come from Eastern Europe, there is great tives because in 2011 UNESCO welcomed Palestine as a member. Within the UN, Bokova is considered pressure to select a candidate from that region.

Whoever is chosen must be acceptable to 9 out of a safe pair of hands – a UN insider who has brought 15 members of the Security Council, and to all five of a measure of efficiency to a troubled agency. Among the Council’s permanent members – China, France, the non-Eastern Europeans, Helen Clark, who has Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States – overseen painful cost-cutting and a major restructuring of UNDP, is the leading contender. each of which can veto any candidate.

If women candidates abound, clarity about Irritation at the choke-hold that this tiny set of countries, a freeze-frame of global power in the post whether priority will be given to selecting a womWorld War II world, has over UN decision-making an does not. 49 countries, chaired by Colombia has fueled long-standing but slow-moving efforts and Costa Rica, have formed the ‘Group of Friends to broaden the Security Council’s membership and in favor of a Woman Candidate for Secretary-Genconstrain use of the veto. In late 2015, the General eral of the United Nations’, and have committed Assembly passed a resolution demanding transpar- to support the selection of a woman for the job. ency in the process for nominating and selecting the This comes close to calling for an all-female shortnext SG. It also urged countries to put forward wom- list. Within the US, 35 members of Congress, from en candidates. Civil society groups are amplifying both the House of Representatives and the Senate these demands. A campaign called ‘1 for 7 Billion’, have urged the Obama administration to support which brings together a wide range of human rights the selection of a woman SG. Legislators in other advocacy groups, calls for candidates to be made countries are taking similar actions. public and for selection criteria be made clear so that each candidate can be assessed by the General As- Greater transparency and broader participation On February 26 the President of the General Assembly and the world at large. sembly announced dates (April 11-14) for official candidates to present their wares to the General AsA growing set of women candidates For the first time official nominations have been sembly. Candidates are asked to provide a 2000-word publicly announced. To date, six Eastern European statement – a kind of ‘cover letter’ that (presumably) countries have made nominations. Three of these are will be publically available – and to engage in dialogue women: Irina Bokova, a Bulgarian who heads UNES- not just with Member-State diplomats, but with civil CO; Vesna Pusic, Deputy Speaker of Croatia’s Parlia- society groups too. An online portal has been creatment; and Natalia Gherman, Moldova’s Foreign Min- ed through which individuals from any country may ister. Gherman has stepped down from her official submit questions for the candidates. It is not exactly duties in order to focus full-time on her campaign for the kind of free and fair election process the UN itself SG. Others are sure to be nominated. Kristalina Geor- monitors in many countries, and calculations based gieva, currently Vice-President of the Commission of on national interests will govern the final selection. the European Union, has also been mentioned. Like But it is a big change from past practice.

Reformers have also asked the Security Council Bokova, she too is Bulgarian, but nothing prevents a to submit not just a single name for endorsement or country from nominating more than one candidate.

Because there is no official rule on regional ro- rejection by the GA, but rather a selection of semi-fitation of the Secretary-General’s post, names from nalists from which the GA might choose. Reformers beyond Eastern Europe are circulating. Among the have also proposed that the next SG be limited to a leading contenders is Helen Clark, the former Prime single term of seven years instead of a renewable fiveMinister of New Zealand (region-wise, a member of year term. The intention is to reduce the incentive for the UN’s “Western Europe and Others Group”). For a first-term SG to seek reelection by granting requests the past seven years, Clark has headed the United Na- for high-level appointments from powerful countries. tions Development Programme (UNDP), a far larger agency than UNESCO. Another possibility, tantaliz- The need for a feminist women Secretary-General If a woman is chosen as SG, inevitably questions ingly aired in the New York Times by a former communications aide to Kofi Annan, is German Chan- will arise as to whether her gender would bring any cellor Angela Merkel, whose political difficulties at added virtues or talents to what Trygve Lie, the UN’s home may make her available sooner than originally first SG, called “the most impossible job in the world.” thought. Latin America offers several possibilities: The case for increasing women’s participation, and Rebecca Grynspan, Clark’s deputy at UNDP and even seeking gender-parity in national legislatures, former vice president of Costa Rica; Alicia Barcena is typically made on grounds of both democratic fairIbarra, head of the UN’s Economic Commission for ness and the need for representation to address per-

vasive society-wide gender biases in terms of pay differentials, discriminatory laws, and other practices.

Special measures, such as electoral quotas for women, are often advocated – including by the UN – to redress persistent gender imbalances in public bodies. Another argument sometimes employed is that women, as members of a socially disadvantaged and often politically excluded group, can help to bring the perspectives of other marginalized constituencies to decision-making, a claim made by Moldova’s official candidate, Natalia Gherman, at an event in New York in late February. This is addition to the often-repeated claim that women, either “naturally” or because of the social roles that they are forced to play, have an unusual talent for bridging differences and promoting productive compromises – skills that could come in handy for the world’s top diplomat.

There is certainly evidence that women in decisionmaking can advance social equality – and specifically gender equality. But, crucially, their ability to do so requires that they be feminists. It is striking that the ‘F’ word has been almost entirely absent in discussions of the qualities and orientations desirable in the next world leader. At a time when issues of gender and sexuality are more politically salient than ever, the selection of a feminist Secretary General would seem an urgent priority. There is growing awareness that women’s unpaid care responsibilities, weak property rights and constraints on their access to jobs and credit hold back economic development – so much so that increases in women’s employment and in men’s contribution to unpaid care work are major targets of the UN’s recently agreed Sustainable Development Goals.

At the same time, disputes over sexual rights, women’s reproductive rights, and adolescent sexuality education have become more divisive and destructive in international forums. Many conservative groups have made a claw-back of women’s rights and freedoms an explicit objective of their political projects. Violent extremists have relished the opportunity to horrify the world with the torture and enslavement of women, girls, and homosexuals. Engaging women in the process of “countering violent extremism” is a major talking point in the international community, including in a recent UN Security Council Resolution.

All of this points to the need for not just a woman SG, but a feminist SG. A feminist SG will not find a particularly supportive environment in the UN’s Secretariat. Despite the creation in 2011 of UN Women, an agency dedicated to gender equality and women’s empowerment, neither objective appears to be a priority for the most powerful parts of the UN secretariat: the Department of Political Affairs (DPA) and the Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO). As with national foreign ministries and defense departments, DPA and DPKO are male-dominated and resistant to the idea that women’s empowerment is central to their missions. Their policy statements dutifully recite their commitment to gender equality, but both DPA and DPKA have sidelined this issue when push comes to shove. They have, for instance, refused to be bound by a 2010 UN system-wide agreement to earmark 15% of their funds on activities to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment when working in crisis or post-conflict situations. So powerful are DPA and DPKO within the UN system that this blatant disregard for a Secretary-General’s spending directive was not called out in two massive 2015 reviews of the UN’s peacekeeping and peacebuilidng work.

Even on the simple matter of gender balance in staffing, the UN has failed to meet a commitment to increase the number of women in its leadership.

In 1986, the General Assembly set a modest goal of having 30% of the UN’s top management be women by 2000. Sixteen years past this deadline, the UN has not even reached 25% of women in top management within the Secretariat, according to a companion article on openDemocracy 50.50 today. Another analysis shows that, in 2015, 93% of the appointments made by the SG at the level of Under Secretary-General and Assistant Secretary-General were men.

Appointing a woman to the position of SecretaryGeneral of the United Nations would send a strong signal to the world that a person’s sex need not constrain their ambition. But it will not necessarily guarantee that women’s rights will be at the forefront of the UN’s agenda. What is needed is a Secretary-General with the commitment and determination to press the UN to deliver on its many unimplemented gender equality promises, and not to abandon the women’s empowerment agenda when it becomes politically uncomfortable – which it often does. In other words, we need a woman and a feminist. Is insisting on both as criteria for selecting the next SG asking too much?

Is it, as Anne Marie Slaughter famously put it (in another context) unreasonably demanding to “have it all”? The answer should be a resounding no.

Anne Marie Goetz is a Professor at New York University’s School of Professional Studies, Center for Global Affairs and a member of the Campaign to Elect a Woman UN Secretary-General.

The opinions in this article are her own.

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.

MonDAY 14•03•2016

PERSPECTIVE

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

7

Pledges to Help Gender, war and peace: "We the people." UNDP Eradicate Poverty, Feminism: a way of thought and a way of being that can and has made change. We must stand up for humanity now so that our children can have theirs

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Hunger By 2030 Thalif Deen

T

Madeleine Rees

was asked to do a TEDx talk. Ten minutes. The analysis of gender, war and peace in ten minutes.

I wrote it. I sent it. I was not happy. It was not what I had written, it was my belief in what I was saying that had begun to wane. In the face of what the world was doing to itself – we are doing that is – could I honestly stand up and claim that there was a majority who wanted change, and that we could do it?

Could I legitimately claim that the strands of the social and political movement that is feminism as a way of thought and being, was still alive and well and would lead to fundamental change? It was personally devastating. Lawyer I may be, but I did not feel I could present a case I was not sure I believed in, I was no longer sure I had sufficient evidence to persuade.

Two things happened; I saw the film Suffragette, it both reminded me and moved me. Working class women standing shoulder to shoulder with their more privileged sisters to change things. Of course their struggle was experienced differently, but the essence was that the discrimination, the misogyny and the extremities of patriarchy hurt all women. There was solidarity, a common purpose, a determination to make their world better, for themselves and for their daughters. Feminism. A way of thought and a way of being that can and has made change. I spoke to a learned friend who reminded me of the power of sisterhood and how we needed it rekindled. I did the talk.

Gender, war and peace In Europe there is a disjunction between the personal and the political. If you ask the question “are you happy in your private life,” chances are that most show contentment. Ask that question about the state of the world, and the answer is an overwhelming ‘no’. If the theory of common humanity is valid, then it should mean that we want to change this. If we do, we should look to how we understand gender and gender roles and the incredible impact they have on war and peace.

The theory is borne out by evidence. Evidence of how systems and the institutions in place to maintain them absorb people, change values and become the ‘causes’ in themselves.

The role of the international community in Bosnia exemplified this. So much of what happened was linked to choices that were made by individuals: systems, choices and humanity. Peacekeepers in the United Nations and other international organisations were sexually exploiting women who were trafficked. The United Nations chose to do nothing, or better put, people within a system made those choices to protect the institution, the institution more important than the women. Those who opposed faced consequences, as Kathy Bolkovac and others will attest, including me.

Choice is ever present - even when we think there is none. In 1915 American suffragette and activist, Jane Addams – no vote, no cell phone – brought 1.136 suffragettes to The Hague from all over the world to make known the root causes of war, and to protest the slaughter in the trenches. That was the beginning of the Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom (WILPF). Those women chose to defy social norms to stand up against the horrors of war created by the geo-political system of the time.

One of the root causes they identified was inequality between people and between nations. Their ideas and analyses were right. So much so, that those in power were ‘afraid of them’. The British government tried in vain to stop the women from the UK contingent going by denying passports, but some still made it.

Suffragettes metamorphosed into feminists. An historical social and political movement with the stated aim of achieving equality and ending violence.

Over time we have used different methodologies to better understand and describe how inequalities are perpetuated. Political economy, and particularly the political economy of violence, has been attested to as a valid methodology in places of violent conflict. I have been to many such places including: the dirty war of Argentina, the revolution in Nicaragua,

Ukraine, and of course Bosnia.

What it has evidenced is power: who has it, who uses it, and what is needed to sustain it. It permeates all aspects of social organisation, from the family to education, to employment, and into governance structures and security.

In almost all pre-conflict and conflict situations power is based on fear, and the consequent violence which is highly gendered. The evidence from all of those places of conflict was also stark: the majority does not want violent conflict, but does not seem to have a choice as the power structures dictate the lines of division; ethnicity, political affiliation, class, religion … or combinations of the above.

In February during the attempt at Syrian peace talks, one of the women reminded me of that. “I have been talking with generals, ‘rebel’ fighters, Islamists…everyone that is now embroiled in this war. And they say the same thing. They just want to put their guns down and have a normal life,” she told me. Men and women are alike. They and their communities do not want violence; they simply want to live their lives without fear.

The Syrian women are doing incredible work to end violence, brokering local ceasefires, facilitating humanitarian access and trying to make peace. They are organising intelligently. Yet still they do not have real inclusion in the peace process.

In the midst of another war - in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Annie Matundu Mbambi, the president of WILPF in the DRC, runs a bakery. As women are baking bread together they are discussing how to get the guns out of their communities and women into decision making. Increasingly they discuss how to support the men who are transgressing their gender roles and wanting to deconstruct violent masculinities and work for peace.

These women are the equivalent of our WILPF women of 1915, but they have not prevailed – not yet. It begs the question as to why it is so hard to create sustainable peace. It’s another of our choices.

One is reaction to difference. Feminists are diverse; different races and backgrounds, all colours shapes and sizes, but our diversity is our strength. It’s what makes us a brilliant though flawed species, and if we could embrace that thought it's what could build a serious and effective movement for change.

It’s not differences, but fear of difference, that causes conflict. We are taught to be afraid of ‘others’. Now we are ‘afraid’ of asylum seekers, migrants, Muslims…

And what do we do when we are made fearful? At first we become quiet, the rabbit in the head lights, then there is a rush for security and we think only of a militarised security which needs a particular type of masculinity to be elevated. It builds and needs a violent masculinity.

Most are not violent but they are not valued for it.

Conscientious objectors are heroes, but they are denigrated. The men fleeing Syria want peace, do not want to fight but they are often vilified.

That system of militarised security needs weapons.

The WILPF women of 1915 knew that expenditure on weapons would grow exponentially if we did not change the way we define security and they have been proven right. The world, that is our governments, spend on average one and a half trillion dollars a year on weapons for

The Morung Express

so called defense. Of us? Or of the system of power they have created in our name?

It’s a choice. Instead we could have used those trillions to realise the Millennium Development Goals which would have meant eradicating extreme poverty and hunger, achieving universal primary education, mitigating climate change, and achieving gender equality.

This could have been done several times over, and if you add the 7.6 trillion dollars sitting in off shore tax havens, then there is no shortage of money to bring equality and fundamental change. It’s a choice.

In 1945 the world decided to embody ideas for change in the UN Charter. It opens with “We the people of the member states of the United Nations” – not ‘we the elite’ or ‘we the governments’ – and the stated aim was “to save future generations from the scourge of war.”

It makes us the people responsible. It’s our choice.

Of course it was impossible in 1915 for 1,136 women to stop a war in full flow. But today we have International law which insists on equality for all. We have Security Council resolutions on Women Peace and Security, we have commitments to ensure women are part of peace processes. Yet still during the Syrian talks women had to fight long and hard just to become advisors to the mediator in February this year.

Most peace processes exclude women and nonviolent men and more than 70 % fail. Why? Because it’s not just about stopping warring parties. A peace negotiation on Syria may stop one war, but there are others and there will inevitably be more, unless, and until, we change our way of thinking; eschew militarism as a way of thought.

For many, trying to change the way the world is run looks too big, too distant, too beyond our ability to influence - but it’s not. Those who say they are personally happy probably have a decent level of material well being, but they also have, friends, family, they experience solidarity and support, empathy and decency in their lives. Feminists have always said that the personal is political. It is how you choose your way of being as an individual that can and will have broader influence and impact. You can choose nonviolence, choose to challenge gendered assumptions and stereotypes more broadly. It’s about bringing those values that make us happy into the spaces which make up our society, from the family to the education board, the local governance structures and onwards to the State and the multilateral system: “We the people.”

The global movement of Feminism has a vision; it’s an old one, but even more valid in our current state of the world: equality and an end to violence. It’s a jigsaw as to how we get there. Each of us has to bring our pieces to the table and look up to see how they fit to build that vision into reality.

If we do that, when our children ask us in 5, 10, 15 years time what we did when it seemed as if the world would implode, we can say with some degree of pride, that we stood up for humanity so that they could have theirs. That time is now.

This article stems from a Tedx talk by the author. Madeleine Rees is Secretary General of the Women's International League for Peace and Freedom ( WILPF). She was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) for services to human rights, particularly women's rights, and international peace and security. In 1998 she began working as the chief of the OHCHR in Bosnia - Herzegovina. From 2006 to 2010 she was the head of the gender unit for the OHCHR.

pOll RESulTS

Do you believe there is ‘tolerance’ in naga society? Why? Some of those who voted YES had this to say: • Yes. We can tolerate bad roads, bad mobile net work, bad govt. Schools, bad water supply, bad power supply, etc. because we have given up and joined the "system".

• Yes there is a certain kind of tolerance in Naga society. It is not perfect, but one can safely say that there is tolerance.

Where else will you find the Mosque, Temple and Church cohabiting the same place - and that too peacefully.

Only in Nagaland!

• Yes. With numerous underground groups imposing forced taxation, the public is very tolerant but that tolerance is now stretched to breaking point.

• Yes I believe there is tolerance in Naga society. Every election time we keep forgiving our candidates and we keep voting them back to power even though they keep robbing us. Sometimes the degree of tolerance in our society is to a fault and this is disturbing. I would argue that because of too much tolerance our society is going down the drain.

• Yes we are tolerant. This is the reason why the gross corruption by our state leaders continues, our legal system continues to fail, our police are not able to provide security and so on.

Nagas are tolerant to a fault for all the wrong reasons. But we keep making

so many non-issues into issues.

• No. “ISMs” is what have given birth to intolerance. An eye for an eye has beSome of those who voted come of us, shunning some. The word NO had this to say: Revenge seems more synonym to have • No. We speak about tolerance but in taken the better of us. the past few months if we saw what we • No. people even tried to illiminate/ have done, or julabahar we wouldn’t those who b able to speak the say that toltruth. erance is • NO. Even being practhough Naticed. We galand is have so desupposed to graded ourbe a Chrisselves that tian state, killing, murthere is no dering, loottolerant valing, etc are ues in the just somesociety. Just thing that look at how comes to they treat the be just annon-Nagas. other of our Believe it, day to bediscriminagin with. The tion is alive big finger and kicking in should be Naga society. pointed to • No. Reason YES NO OTHER the Church being: Selfish leaders, Naga Hohos and all those who and only look for personal gain. preached. For where are they when • No, because we are Ignorant! they are needed. “A ship without a rud- • Absolutely No. Just listen to our elder!!!” ders. All they pass on to us is negative

73%

14%

13%

stereotypes. This is one of the source for intolerance in our society, and our young people are listening to them without questioning at all. How will things change?

• No. We are too far for this things to happen in our land Nagaland Some of those who voted OTHERS had this to say: • Our society has been filled with violence and state repression for many years. So, though this question is important, it is not possible to answer this question without recognizing the war in our society. Generally, I think Nagas are tolerant to one another and to others as well. This is clearly evident by the fact that Dimapur is flourishing with so many different groups of people and so many different religions. If there was no tolerance, Dimapur just would not be Dimapur.

• Tolerance and endurance is out of context.

• If you want an honest answer all you need to do is to log into these facebook accounts of the many Naga groups like Naga Spear, Naga Blog, and so on.

From there you will get a fairly good idea whether there is tolerance in Naga society or not.

• In nagaland? really something to ponder

Inter press Service

he UN Development Programme (UNDP) celebrated its 50th anniversary this week with a pledge to help implement the UN’s post2015 development agenda aimed at eliminating extreme poverty and hunger by 2030.

When the agency was founded in 1966, one in every three people was living in poverty. But that number has changed to one in eight, according to UNDP figures.

As the primary UN agency in the field of economic and sustainable development, it has vowed to help developing countries reach the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and help implement Agenda 2030 adopted by world leaders last September.

Addressing a high-level ministerial meeting Wednesday, UNDP Administrator Helen Clark said for 50 years UNDP has been working on the frontlines of development, advocating for change and connecting countries to the knowledge, experience, and resources they need to help people build better lives.

“The world has changed immeasurably in that time, and UNDP has changed with it. But the core mission of UNDP is more relevant than ever – that is, to support countries to eradicate poverty in a way which simultaneously reduces inequality and exclusion, while protecting the planet on which we all depend.”

As the spreading refugee crisis threatens to destabilize national budgets of donor nations in Western Europe, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has repeatedly appealed to the international community not to forsake its longstanding commitment for development assistance to the world’s poorer nations.

A new report by CONCORD, the European confederation of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) representing all 28 European Union (EU) members, points out aid budgets are increasingly being used to cover refugee and asylum seekers costs: the Netherlands at 145%; Italy 107%; Cyprus 65%; and Portugal 38%.

And despite repeated promises, the EU, as a whole, did not deliver on its commitment to spend 0.7% of Gross National Income (GNI) as official development assistance (ODA) by 2015, said the study released last December.

Clark told the ministerial meeting: “We have already taken steps to ensure that UNDP is fit for purpose in the SDG era. We have a more focused Strategic Plan; we have restructured our headquarters to eliminate duplication and improve efficiency and effectiveness, and we have moved much more of our policy, programme, and other support closer to the field.”

She said UNDP has also implemented measures which have led to agency to be ranked “among the most transparent development organisations in the world.”

“Yet,” she said, “the ambition and breadth of Agenda 2030 will demand a great deal more of all of us.” To be truly fit for purpose in the SDG era, UNDP must be ever more proactive, responsive, and innovative.

“That is the reason we have invited Ministers here today. We want your strategic engagement on the key challenges before us. We want to hear your assessment of where we can be most helpful in support of your national development efforts,” she told the high level meeting.

Ban says experience has shown that a thriving economy is not enough to eradicate poverty and promote shared prosperity.

“Economies must be put at the service of people, through effective integrated social policies,” he told the UN Commission for Social Development in early February.

He pointed out that enormous social progress has been made in lifting people out of extreme poverty; in boosting food security; in advancing universal primary education and adult literacy; in promoting women’s empowerment, and in reducing maternal and child mortality.

Accessibility and the full inclusion of persons with disabilities has become a growing interest of decision makers, as has the critical importance of ensuring social protection for all. “Now we need to build on these successes,” Ban said.

Still, he said, “We are living in a world of turmoil and trouble.”

There may be fewer wars between countries, but there is more insecurity. Inequality remains too high, affecting poverty reduction efforts and social cohesion in both developed and developing countries.

“Too many people continue to face exclusion and are unable to realize their full potential. Too few economies have attained inclusive and sustainable growth and are unable to promote true social progress. People are frustrated. They are working harder and falling behind. Too often, instead of decisions, they see deadlock. And they wonder: are leaders even listening?,” he asked.

Clark told the ministerial meeting that UNDP’s work in support of SDGs include the following: First, eradicating poverty; leaving no one behind – looking at the specific measures which lead to inclusive growth and the eradication of poverty in all its dimensions Second, protecting the planet, sustaining development – the importance of balancing economic growth and improved livelihoods with the need to protect the environment; Third, preventing violent conflict, building peaceful societies – ensuring governance, peace and security are durable and benefit all parts of society; and Fourth, managing risk and building resilience – looking at how to identify risks and take appropriate action to prepare for disasters and adapt to climate change.

She told the ministers: “I invite you all to share your most ambitious visions of how UNDP can support member states in these areas.”

To move from agreement to action on the Sustainable Development Goals, UNDP must help to deliver results; and it must build and sustain new partnerships to tackle this complex agenda in these challenging times. “Above all, UNDP must be relevant to you and your countries, and tackle the challenges which you identify,” Clark declared.

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

8

MondAY 14•03•2016

INDIA

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

RSS opts for trousers over khaki shorts

n a g au r ( r a ja S than), March 13 (IanS): The Rashtriya Swayamsewak Sangh (RSS) on Sunday said its members will now do away with the traditional khaki shorts and opt instead for a pair of trousers.

"We have taken the decision to change the dress code for swayamsevaks.

We have decided to replace the khaki shorts with brown pants," RSS general secretary Bhaiyyaji Joshi told the media here.

The RSS also opposed the tradition of ban on the entry of women in some temples in the country.

"If there is any unfair tradition, it should be done away with through dialogue and discussion," Joshi said.

The decision to change the dress code to wood brown/coffee colour trousers was taken at a threeday annual meeting of Akhil Bharatiya Pratinidhi Sabha, the highest decision-making body of the RSS. "Trousers are more common in normal life.

We are the people who move with the times and that's why we have no hesitation in changing the dress

No reservation for affluent sections: RSS

Volunteers of the Hindu nationalist organisation Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) take part in a drill on the last day of their three-day workers' meeting in Ahmedabad, India, in this January 4, 2015 file photo. REUTERS

code," he said.

Many view the move an attempt to attract more young people towards the RSS. "It may take four to six months for the dress code change to take effect as the message has to be commu-

nicated to at least 50,000 villages, towns and cities in the country," Joshi said.

The RSS leader felt that trousers would in no way affect the exercise and drills of swayamsevaks.

"Cricket and judo-karate players and people who

do yoga also wear tracksuits and full pants. So it is wrong to say that wearing pants will affect training or exercise of swayamsevaks," Joshi said.

Joshi said there was no specific reason to opt for brown colour for trousers,

nagaur (rajaSthan), March 13 (PtI): In a veiled reference to the recent Jat agitation, RSS today disapproved of reservation demands by the “affluent” sections and favoured a study to ascertain whether the deserving backward classes are actually getting the quota benefits.

Pitching for social harmony, the Sangh fountainhead said members of the “Hindu community are responsible” for caste-based discrimination and “we need to eradicate it” for social justice, regarding which he invoked B R Ambedkar. Disapproving of demands for quota by “affluent” sections, RSS general secretary Suresh Bhaiyyaji Joshi said the provisions of reservation made by Bhimrao Ambedkar were for social justice and that concept should be kept in mind by those demanding reservation today.

“It is felt that this thinking (demand by affluent class) is not in the right direction. People of such (affluent) class should give up their right and should help the weaker section of the society. But instead of that, they are demanding reservation for themselves which is not a thinking in the right direction,” he said. He did not make any direct reference to any section

except the fact that it was easily available and the colour looks good.

The RSS leader expressed concern over the recent happenings at the Jawaharlal Nehru University campus in Delhi, including raising of anti-national

slogans at the third anniversary of the execution of parliament terror attack convict Afzal Guru on February 9.

"Slogans against the country were raised there.

What kind of mentality is this? It's a matter of worry.

We should think who al-

making such demands but appeared to be hinting at Jats who recently launched a major violent agitation in Haryana for reservation.

He was addressing a press conference at the end of a three-day conclave of Akhil Bhariya Pratinidhi Sabha, the highest decision-making body of the RSS, which passed resolutions on Social Harmony as also Education and Healthcare. “Any kind of discriminatory behavior and evil like untouchability should be uprooted altogether. For the smooth functioning of the society, it is utmost essential that all the social and religious institutions in the society need to steer the course based on our hoary ideals of life,” said the resolution on Social Harmony.

“Caste-based discrimination is a matter of concern for all of us and members of the Hindu community are responsible for it. But now we need to eradicate it. A message for this should be conveyed in the society so that there is no discrimination, atrocities against anyone and social harmony should be maintained,” Joshi said.He said there should be a proper study to ascertain whether the backward classes which really need reservation are actually getting the benefits.

lowed such mentality to grow," Joshi said.

During the event, antiIndia slogans were allegedly raised, following which JNU students leader Kanhaiya Kumar was arrested by Delhi Police on February 12 on charges of sedition.

The RSS also opposed the tradition of ban on the entry of women in some temples in the country.

"If there is any unfair tradition, it should be done away with through dialogue and discussion," Joshi said.

Hyderabad court issues non- VHP demands Azad's ouster Ground-water arsenic spreading delhI, March 13 (IanS): The VHP on Sunday bailable warrant against Mallya new cancer in several Bihar districts slammed Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Ghulam hyderab ad, March 13 (IanS): A city court here has issued non-bailable warrants against now defunct Kingfisher Airlines chairman Vijay Mallya and chief financial officer A.Raghunath in an alleged cheating case.

The 14th Additional Chief Metropolitan Magistrate G.S. Ramesh Kumar directed police to produce Mallya in court by April 13. The liquor baron is currently in Britain. The court issued the NBW on a petition filed by GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd. seeking prosecution of Mallya for defaulting on payments and cheating the company by issuing cheques that bounced.

The airport officials had filed 11 cases against Kingfisher for non-payment of dues to the tune of Rs.8 crore.

Cheques issued for Rs.50 lakh had bounced and a case in this connection was filed against him under provisions of the Negotiable Instruments Act. The court had issued warrants against Mallya, the CFO and the company's authorised signatory, asking them to appear before it on March 10.

However, none of them appeared.

When the matter came up for hearing on Saturday, Mallya's lawyer pleaded for exemption from appearence for some more time. The GMR lawyer opposed the plea on the ground that it is not a routine case.

Nabi Azad for drawing a parallel between the RSS and terror outfit Islamic State and demanded his ouster from the Congress as well as an apology from party chief Sonia Gandhi."The National Integration Conference organised

by Jamiat Ulama-i-Hind in Delhi proved to be a gathering of people against national integration... even Sonia Gandhi and Ghulam Nabi Azad seemed to be playing the same role," Vishwa Hindu Parishad joint general secretary Surendra Jain said in a statement.

"To appease the minority voters, they trampled on all decencies," he said in the statement in Hindi. Seeking an apology from Gandhi, Jain also sought Azad's ouster from the party.

"The Congress president should not only apologise to the nation but also oust Azad from the party," said the VHP leader.

Addressing the conference, Azad on Saturday said: "... so we oppose organisations like ISIS, the way we oppose RSS. If those among us in Islam too do wrong things, they are no way less than RSS."

Joint parliament panel to seek consensus on land bill new delhI, March 13 (IanS): A parliamentary panel, headed by BJP MP S.S. Ahluwalia, is meeting on Monday to try to reach consensus in sorting out the land acquisition imbroglio which remains unresolved even after a colonial era law was replaced in 2014 by a new law.

The 21-member Joint Committee of Parliament examining the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement (Second Amendment) Bill, 2015, is to have a crucial round of meeting on Monday, sources said.

"The committee members have already been circulated the replies received from the state governments on land acquisition proceedings that had been initiated under Land Acquisition

Act, 1894, and the other status of land acquisition proceedings," a committee member said.

The panel was granted extension on December 16, 2015, after replies from various state governments did not reach it in time.

The bill under consideration was passed in the Lok Sabha in March 2015, but was stalled in the Rajya Sabha and then referred to a joint parliamentary committee in May last year. It seeks to amend the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013, which was passed by the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government and came into effect in January 2014.

The 2013 law, in turn, had replaced the colonial era Land Acquisition Act, 1894.The commit-

Wilful defaulters to face full force of law: Jayant Sinha new delhI, March 13 (IanS): In the wake of a non-bailable warrant issued against businessman Vijay Mallya in a cheque bounce case, the government on Sunday said the "full force of the law" is being applied to bring all wilful loan defaulters to justice.

"We have some people who are wilful defaulters, who have engaged in illegal activity. As far as they are concerned, the full force of the law is being applied," Minister of State for Finance Jayant Sinha told reporters here.

"All investigative agencies are working to ensure they are brought to justice," he said at the end of the Advancing Asia conference, co-hosted by the union government and the International Monetary Fund.

The minister said that wilful defaulters and corporates which are unable to repay loans due to hits to their businesses owing to global slowdown should not be "co-mingled and confuse one with the other". "... there are some corporate groups which, due to a slowdown in the global economy or because of policy failures in the previous government, are facing significant financial distress.

"We've to have an appropriate resolution process as well as appropriate policy interventions to ensure that NPAs (non-performing assets) due to such kinds of reasons go through an orderly workout and resolution process," he added.

Sinha said that the government also has to see that people facing business challenges do not have to go through such problems again.

"We have to deal with structural issues, which is where the bankruptcy code becomes important so that we avoid these kinds of problems in the future as well," he said.

tee has been given a number of extensions after it failed to evolve general consensus on various provisions.

The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) government had initially brought in a few drastic changes in the legislation, especially in terms of compensation for land owners as against what was in the 2013 law, but climbed down after facing widespread protests of the opposition and the farmers' organisations.

Three NDA allies, Shiv Sena, Akali Dal and Swabhimani Paksha, as well as organisations affiliated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), have voiced concern over removal of the consent clause and social impact assessment provisions from the 2013 law. The Congress and the BJP members clashed on a

number of occasions during the sittings of the panel. IMonday's meeting assumes importance as it comes at the fag end of the first half of Budget session.

The Lok Sabha members of the committee are K.V. Thomas, Rajiv Satav (both Congress), Anandrao Adsul (Shiv Sena), Kalyan Banerjee (Trinamool Congress), B. Mahtab (Biju Janata Dal), Mohammad Salim (CPI-M), Chirag Paswan (LJP), S.S. Ahluwalia, Udit Raj, Anurag Thakur and Ganesh Singh (all BJP). The Rajya Sabha members are Ram Narain Dudi (BJP), Jairam Ramesh, Digvijay Singh (both Congress), Ram Gopal Yadav (Samajwadi Party), Sharad Yadav (Janata Dal-United), Sharad Pawar (NCP), Derek O'Brien (Trinamool) and Rajpal Singh Saini (Bahujan Samaj Party).

Patna, March 13 (IanS): The high level of arsenic in ground water is causing and spreading cancer on either side of the Ganga in Bihar, according to experts.

The most affected are the poorest of the poor. A.K. Ghosh, a Patna- based arsenic expert, said a large number of cases had been reported from the districts along the river.

"It's a matter of serious concern," Ghosh, professor at the department of environment and water management at AN College, Patna, told IANS. He has conducted several arsenic field surveys in the last ten years.

According to a 2014 study by Ghosh, 18 of the 38 districts of Bihar were affected by ground water arsenic. The worst affected districts were Bhojpur, Buxar, Vaishali, Bhagalpur and Samastipur.

Scientists at the Patna-based Mahavir Cancer Sansthan (MCS) said in their latest research study that arsenic had been found in tissues of patients suffering from cancer. The source of the offending chemical element was drinking water, they stated.

The scientists concluded that the probability of two types of cancer (skin and gall bladder) was due to ingestion of drinking water in which arsenic presence was more than 300 parts per billion (ppb).

Their research also said arsenic increases the possibility of DNA damage. The MCS study was based on 200 cancer patients from Bhojpur, Vaishali and Buxar.

The study headed by Dr Arun Kumar observed that arsenic might not be the single factor in causing cancer, but its effect gets multiplied when combined with other carcinogens.

According to an official report of the state health department, around 75,000 new cancer cases are detected annually in Bihar. Of these, the highest number of cases are reported from districts affected by arsenic. Ghosh said that several patients often moved out of Bihar for treatment, making it difficult to identify the exact number of cases in the state.A cancer specialist, Dr A.J.K Singh said arsenic poisoning

was one of the main factors for cancer of prostrate, liver and gall bladder in the state, adding that the poorest were hit hard by it.

Singh said the government should join hands with different organisations to get rid of arsenic from drinking water.

Water samples collected at random from 44,000 tubewells by officials in affected districts found that arsenic concentration was above the World Health Organisation's permissible limit of 10 parts per billion (ppb) in most of them. The India government's guidelines peg the permissible limit at 50 ppb.

The highest level of concentration was found in Bhojpur at 1861 ppb, followed by Buxar at 1230 ppb and Bhagalpur at 915 ppb.

Even Patna district had a very high incidence of 760 ppb.

Last year, a state government report based on a survey of water samples collected from 19,961 tubewells in 398 villages, found that arsenic concentration was above 10 ppb in 310 villages and above 50 ppb in 235 villages.

Bihar's Minister for Public Health Department Krishnanandan Prasad Verma told the State Assembly last week that 13 districts in the Gangetic plain had more arsenic content than the permissible limit of 50 ppb.

Experts say a large number of hand pumps in Bihar need to be painted red -- warning against use -- and sealed.

Arsenic was also finding its way into agricultural products like rice, tomato, maize, wheat and spinach. Often, over-extraction of water through hand pumps worsened the situation by raising the concentration levels.

The source of arsenic, according to experts, was siltation from the Himalayas which gets deposited downstream through the Ganga. In its natural form of arsenopyrite (iron arsenic sulfide), it is insoluble in water.

Arsenic, an odourless and tasteless semimetal element, occurs naturally in the environment and is sometimes deposited as a by-product of agriculture processing and industrial use.

President pitches for speedy and affordable justice for all allahabad, March 13 (IanS): Expressing his concern over long-pending cases in the courts, President Pranab Mukherjee on Sunday pitched for speedy and affordable justice to all. Addressing the 150th foundation day of the Allahabad High Court, he also said that sanctioned posts in the higher judiciary need to filled quickly.

"Our courts are today overburdened on account of the large number of cases pending before them. There are over three crore cases pending in various courts throughout the country.

Out of these about 38.5 lakh cases are pending in 24 high courts. The pendency of cases in the high courts has slightly declined from 41.5 lakh in 2014 to 38.5 lakh in 2015, but we still have a long way to go," Mukherjee said.

"Justice delayed is justice denied. The governments, judges and lawyers must work hand in hand to make justice a living reality," he added.

Mukherjee also said

Judiciary facing crisis of credibility: Chief Justice

President Pranab Mukherjee releases Rs 10 coin as Chief Justice of India Tirath Singh Thakur looks on at the inauguration of a programme to mark 150th anniversary of Allahabad High Court in Allahabad on Sunday. (PTI Photo)

that increasing the number of courts and judges and judicial officers at all levels is the first step towards achieving the objective of timely delivery of justice. "The government and the judiciary are collectively addressing this issue through an ongoing

increase in the sanctioned strength of judges both at the level of the high courts as well as district and subordinate courts," he said.

He said that out of a sanctioned strength of 1,056 judges in all the high courts, the working strength throughout the

country as on March 1, 2016 was only 591.

"Similarly, the sanctioned strength of judicial officers in district and subordinate courts in the country is about 20,500 out of which the working strength is only about 16,000 at present," he said.

allahabad, March 13 (PtI): Judiciary as an institution is facing crisis of credibility which is a challenge from within, Chief Justice of India TS Thakur said here today as he asked judges to be conscientious of their duties.

With concern being raised over huge pendency of cases, Justice Thakur did not mince any words as he said that Bar has "not been very very cooperative" in disposal of cases even if judges are ready to put extra hours.

"At times judges feel that the delay in the disposal of cases is only because the Bar does not, at times, cooperate," he said at the function to inaugurate 150th anniversary of the Allahabad High Court.

The CJI said he can assure the lawyers that if Bar cooperates, judges will be ready to sit even on Saturdays to finish old matters, especially related to people languishing in jail for years.

"We have great challenges in future and we need to get ready to meet those challenges," he said.

The Chief Justice of India said, "...and when I speak about challenges from within I am referring to the crisis of credibility that we face in the country today. Judges need to be conscientious of in their discharge of duties, punctuality, judicial retribute and effort to do the best is what is the need of the hour".

Seeking cooperation from the Bar in reducing pendency of cases, Justice Thakur said while judges are doing their best and have, to the satisfaction of the entire nation, upheld the Constitution, protected the rights of the people and ensured that access to justice is a reality, he would also like to also address the need for a similar commitment from Bar members.

MOndaY 14•03 •2016

WORLD

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

9

Mosquitoes’ rapid spread poses threat beyond Zika * Invasive species spread diseases to Europe and Americas * Unprecedented pace of change in mosquito-borne pathogens * Trade and deforestation aggravating situation LONDON, March 13 (reuters): As the world focuses on Zika’s rapid advance in the Americas, experts warn the virus that originated in Africa is just one of a growing number of continent-jumping diseases carried by mosquitoes threatening swathes of humanity.

The battle against the insects on the streets of Brazil is the latest in an ancient war between humankind and the Culicidae, or mosquito, family which the pests frequently win.

Today, mosquito invaders are turning up with increasing regularity from Washington DC to Strasbourg, challenging the notion that the diseases they carry will remain confined to the tropics, scientists documenting the cases told Reuters.

Ironically, humans have rolled out the red

Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are seen at the Laboratory of Entomology and Ecology of the Dengue Branch of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in San Juan, March 6, 2016. Picture taken on March 6. (REUTERS Photo)

carpet for the invaders by transporting them around the world and providing a trash-strewn urban landscape that suits them to perfection.

The Aedes aegypti species blamed for transmitting Zika breeds in car tyres, tin cans, dog bowls and cemetery flower vases.

And its females are great at spreading disease as they take multiple bites to satisfy their hunger for the protein in human blood they need to develop their eggs.

Around the world, dis-

Myanmar army releases 46 child soldiers from its ranks NaY PYi taW, March 13 (iaNs): The Myanmarese army has released 46 child soldiers from its ranks, while taking action against hundreds of personnel for recruiting children to the armed forces, the media reported on Sunday.

At a ceremony in Yangon on Saturday attended by government officials and UN personnel, the military freed the 46 minors, allowing them to return to their families, EFE news reported.

“The Tatmadaw (Myanmar Armed Forces) is committed to rid its ranks of underage soldiers,” said Major General Tauk Tun of the Commander-in-Chief’s Office, in the opening address of the event.

The army has freed some 744 underage soldiers and punished 382 soldiers since 2011 for violating international human rights laws against the employment of children.

Al Qaeda in Syria seizes bases, weapons of Western-backed group

ease-carrying mosquitoes are advancing at speed, taking viruses such as dengue and Zika, plus a host of lesser-known ills such as chikungunya and St. Louis encephalitis, into new territories from Europe to the Pacific.

“The concern is that we have these species spreading everywhere. Today the focus is on Zika but they can carry many different viruses and pathogens,” said Anna-Bella Failloux, head of the department that tracks mosquito viruses at

France’s Institut Pasteur.

In 2014, there was a large outbreak of chikungunya, which causes fever and joint pains, in the Caribbean, where it had not been seen before, while the same virus sickened Italians in 2007 in a wake-up call for public health officials.

Europe has seen the reemergence of malaria in Greece for the first time in decades and the appearance of West Nile fever in eastern parts of the continent.

Out in the Atlantic, the Madeira archipelago reported more than 2,000 cases of dengue in 2012, in a sign of the northerly advance of what - at least until Zika - has been the world’s fastest-spreading tropical disease.

In the past 40 years, six new invasive mosquito species have become established in Europe, with five arriving since 1990, driven in large part by the international trade in used vehicle tyres. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in the tyres and they hatch when rain moistens them at their destination.

North American health experts are also racing to keep up, with the first appearance of Aedes japonicus, an invasive mosquito, in western Canada last November and Aedes aegypti found in Washington DC, apparently after spending the winter in sewers or Metro subway stations.

SPRE AD UNPRECEDENTED The speed of change in mosquito-borne diseases since the late 1990s has been unprecedented, according to Jolyon Medlock, a medical entomologist at Public Health England, a government agency.

For many experts, the

biggest potential threat is Aedes albopictus, otherwise known as the Asian tiger mosquito, which is expanding its range widely and is capable of spreading more than 25 viruses, including Zika.

“There is strong evidence that Aedes albopictus is now out-competing aegypti in some areas and becoming more dominant,” said Ralph Harbach, an entomologist at London’s Natural History Museum, who has been studying mosquitoes since 1976.

In the United States, Aedes albopictus has been found as far north as Massachusetts and as far west as California. In Europe it has reached Paris and Strasbourg.

Adding to the challenge for public health authorities are the blurred lines between diseases carried by different mosquitoes, as shown by research in Brazil this month that another common mosquito, Culex quinquefasciatus, may also be able to carry Zika.

Both Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus probably first arrived in the Americas from Africa on slave ships, scientists believe. In the centuries since, commerce has shuttled other species around the

world, while air travel has exposed millions of people to new diseases.

“You’ve got a global movement of mosquitoes and a huge increase in human travel. Humans are moving the pathogens around and the mosquitoes are waiting there to transmit them,” said Medlock.

Human incursions into tropical forests have aggravated the problem. Deforestation in Malaysia, for example, is blamed for a steep rise in human cases of a type of malaria usually found in monkeys.

DON’T KILL THE GOOD GUYS There have been some victories against mosquitoes, thanks to insecticidetreated bed nets and vaccines against viruses like yellow fever and Japanese encephalitis, as well as a new one for dengue approved in December.

But mosquitoes still kill around 725,000 people a year, mostly due to malaria, or 50 percent more than are killed by other humans, according to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Climate change adds a further twist. A 2 to 3 degree Celsius rise in temperature can increase the number of people at risk of malaria by

3 to 5 percent, or more than 100 million, according to the World Health Organization.

Hotter weather also speeds up the mosquito breeding cycle from around two weeks at 25 degrees to 7 to 8 days at 28 degrees, according to the Institut Pasteur’s Failloux.

So is it time to wipe out mosquitoes altogether?

Aggressive action in the 1950s and 1960s, including the use of the pesticide DDT, certainly pushed them back for a while.

Today, genetic modification, radiation and targeted bacteria are being considered.

Trying to eliminate all mosquitoes, however, would make no sense, since there are 3,549 species and fewer than 200 bite humans.

“It might be possible to wipe out a few species but we don’t want to wipe out the good guys because a lot of them serve as food for frogs, fish and bats,” said Harbach. “Many also visit flowers to feed on nectar and may play a role in pollination.”

Some are even our friends. Harbach has a soft spot for the Toxorhynchites genus, which have a convenient penchant for eating Aedes aegypti larvae.

Helicopters kill 17 as Yemen govt Trump digs in after weekend moves against Aden militants violence, threatens Sanders rallies aDeN, March 13 (reuters): Saudi-led forces attacked al Qaeda militants in Aden overnight in an effort to dislodge them from a stronghold in the southern Yemeni port city, killing at least 17 people in helicopter strikes, medics and a security official said on Sunday.

On another front, the Saudi-backed forces supporting President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi fought to widen their control of Taiz in the southwest after breaking a seige there on Friday.

Islamist militants from al Qaeda and Islamic State have exploited the conflict to expand their control, especially in areas where Hadi supporters have managed to expel the Iran-allied Houthis, including in Aden and Lahej provinces.

Witnesses and medics said helicopters from the Saudi-led coalition struck armoured vehicles and a government compound used by the militants in al-Mansoura district, a stronghold in north Aden. There was no immediate comment from the coalition.

Medics said at least 17 bodies were taken to hospitals.The sources said at least 20 civilians and militants were also wounded as well as three members of the security forces.

There was tenuous calm in the district later on Sunday, with streets around the area closed off. A Reuters reporter saw the rubble of a butcher’s shop and the wreckage of cars. Electricity was cut across the district and food shops remained closed.

Shops and businesses closed as security forces sealed off a block in the area, where dozens of suspected militants are believed to be holed up.

The city’s governor said the opera-

Beirut, March 13 (reuters): The al Qaedalinked Nusra Front seized bases and weapons from a Western-backed rebel group in overnight fighting in northwestern Syria, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said on Sunday. Rami Abdulrahman, director of the Observatory, said the Nusra Front had also detained dozens of members of the 13th Division rebel group, one of the factions that has received foreign military aid, capturing U.S.-made anti-tank missiles.

The 13th Division, which is led by the prominent rebel commander Ahmed al-Seoud and fights under the banner of the Free Syrian Army, said on Twitter that Nusra Front fighters attacked its bases and seized weapons, but gave no further details.

Nusra Front accused the rebel fighters of launching surprise attacks on its own bases in the town of Maarat alNuman in Idlib province in northwest Syria. It said some Nusra fighters had been captured. The clashes came two weeks into a cessation of hostilities in Syria and on the eve of peace talks in Geneva between President Bashar al-Assad’s government and the opposition.

The halt in fighting, agreed by government forces, rebel groups and their international backers, excludes Nusra Front and Islamic State militants. Nusra Front fighters have often taken part in offensives alongside other rebel groups. But they have also fought them for territory, defeating groups such as the Western-backed Syria RevoluNeW YOrK, March 13 tionaries Front and the Hazzm group last year. (thOMsON reuters FOuNDatiON): Can land rights for women drive down child marriage and domestic violence?

“Yes and more”, says an NeW YOrK, March 13 (iaNs): Are you a tech buff international group of land who is unable to keep off your phone even at the dinner and property rights specialtable? In that case, your kids may not be happy with you at ists who are due in Washingall, say researchers. A study which delves into the dynam- ton this week to discuss how ics of technology and families reveals that the children of improved land managethose parents who sporadically text even while driving or ment can reduce global povthose who indulge in over-sharing on social media are erty and foster development.

When women have not too impressed with their parents’ habits.

The researchers noted that there have been similar rights to land, argues Klaus hurdles in the past, as families grew accustomed to new Deininger, a lead econotechnologies such as radio, television and video games mist and organizer of this in the household. However, the rapid evolution of tech- week’s World Bank confernology in the past decades, along with the advent of the ence, children’s health and internet has created a wide gap between relationships, education improves, household resources increase and especially between parents and their children.

“This challenge is exacerbated by the fact that parents there are fewer child brides themselves may be struggling to set and abide by the rules as daughters do not need to they set for themselves for technology use,” the authors be married off young for fiindicated. The study states that as technology has become nancial reasons.

Equally, women with pervasive in children’s lives, establishing and enforcing land rights tend to have rules has become increasingly challenging for parents.

The principal concern, among both children and par- savings accounts, a factor ents, was paying attention to those around you instead of that reduces domestic viotechnology. The findings showed that 92 percent of chil- lence.

“If women have strondren feel that their parents need to show more interest ger bargaining power, they while talking to them.

tion was the second phase of a government campaign.

“This stage will continue until it achieves its objectives, foremost of which to impose the authority of the state and restore security and stability in all districts of the capital Aden and its suburbs and to end the security chaos,” Governor Aydaroos al-Zybaidi said.

Militants killed Zybaidi’s predecessor and several other government officials, military and security officers in a series of suicide attacks and shootings in Aden since Hadi’s forces captured the city from the Houthis last July.

MORE FIGHTING IN TAIZ The campaign took place a day after forces loyal to Hadi broke a siege by the Houthis around Taiz, Yemen’s third biggest city, about 200 km (124 miles) northwest of Aden.

The advance represented a breakthrough for Hadi’s government, which has been struggling to achieve a major victory against the Houthis who seized control of most of the country in 2015 in what they described as a revolution against corruption.

Residents said that more fighting was reported in eastern Taiz on Sunday between the Houthis and fighters allied to Hadi.

Witnesses said there were many casualties but gave no figures or more details.

Yemen’s government was forced out of the capital Sanaa by the Houthi rebels in September 2014 and is now based in Aden, but struggles to impose its authority even there. The coalition began a military campaign in March last year to prevent the Houthis from taking complete control of Yemen.

WashiNGtON, March 13 (reuters): Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump on Sunday threatened to send his supporters to the campaign rallies of Democrat Bernie Sanders, showing no sign of toning down his rhetoric after clashes erupted at his own events over the weekend.

Trump, front-runner for the Republican nomination, appeared unchastened after simmering discord between his supporters and protesters angry over his positions on immigration and Muslims turned into a palpable threat on Friday, forcing him to cancel a Chicago rally and shadowing his campaign appearances on Saturday.

Trump blamed supporters of Democratic candidate Sanders for the incidents in Chicago, where scuffles broke out between protesters and backers of the real estate magnate. He called the U.S. senator from Vermont “our communist friend”.

On Sunday, he went a step further in an early morning post on Twitter: “Bernie Sanders is lying when he says his disruptors aren’t told to go to my events. Be careful Bernie, or my supporters will go to yours!”

The scenes in Chicago followed several weeks of violence at Trump rallies, in which protesters and jour-

U.S. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at the downtown Midland Theater in Kansas City, Missouri on March 12. (REUTERS Photo)

nalists have been punched, tackled and hustled out of venues, raising concerns about security leading into the Nov. 8 presidential election to replace Democratic President Barack Obama.

The disturbances continued on Saturday at a Trump rally in Dayton, Ohio, where Secret Service officers scrambled to surround the candidate after a man charged the stage.

Trump scheduled rallies on Sunday in Illinois, Ohio and Florida before the next five presidential nominating contests on Tuesday, which could cement his lead over Republican rivals U.S. Senators Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio and Ohio Governor John Kasich.

Sarah Palin, who ran as

vice president in Republican John McCain’s failed 2008 campaign against Obama, planned to stump for Trump in Florida. During that election, Palin and McCain drew criticism for overheated campaign rallies marked by crowds openly hostile to Obama, who became the first African American president.

Trump, who has harnessed the discontent of white, working class voters angry over international trade deals that cost them jobs, has made his opposition to the 1993 North American Free Trade Agreement and proposed 12-nation Trans-Pacific Partnership a centerpiece of his campaign.

He has hammered Kasich on the issue before Tuesday’s vote.

Poverty, child marriage, violence decline when women own land: WB

Parents! Stop using smartphone at dinner table

This June 17, 2013 file photo shows a Nepalese farmer holding rice saplings as she walks in the rice paddy field in Khokana, Lalitpur. (REUTERS File Photo)

actually can resist. Their husbands will think twice before beating them because they can move out and take their money with them,” Deininger said.

Organizers say the conference will focus on wom-

en and property with particular emphasis on gender equality and land rights which are key to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

The goals, adopted by the United Nations last

September, provide the foundations for an ambitious plan to tackle the world’s most troubling problems over the next 15 years.

Land and property rights experts say when

women are included in a nation’s land ownership, there can be far reaching impacts.

In sub-Saharan Africa, women make up more than half of the agricultural workforce, yet fewer than one in five own farms, according to the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

But if women farmers had the same access to resources as men, the number of hungry in the world could be reduced by up to 150 million, the U.N. World Food Programme (WFP) says.

According to Rodney Schmidt of the Rights and Resources Initiative, a global coalition that works on forest and land policy reform, more than half the world’s land is still held under age-old customary arrangements often arranged by gender.

Traditionally, women are most often engaged in producing and collecting food, and as such, women

do play a major role in how land is used, he said.

When foreign companies enter the picture, buying land from local governments, they can find themselves on a collision course with resident communities, he added.

“These women and their families and men are watching their livelihoods disappear,” Schmidt said.

“You have the seeds there of major social conflict.”

Some 1,400 delegates representing governments, the private sector, academia and non-governmental organisations are expected at the World Bank land and poverty conference from March 14-18, organizers said. (Reporting

by Ellen Wulfhorst, Editing

by Paola Totaro and Katie Nguyen; Please credit the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the charitable arm of Thomson Reuters, that covers humanitarian news, women’s rights, trafficking and climate change.

10

monDAY 14•03•2016

SPORTS

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

big win for barca; chelsea season goes from bad to worse

MILAn, MArch 13 (AP): Barcelona remained on course to retaining its Spanish league title with a 6-0 rout of Getafe on Saturday, while English champion Chelsea's season went from bad to worse with Diego Costa seeing red after a biting incident as Guus Hiddink's team exited the FA Cup. Ma n c h e s t e r C i t y doesn't look like it will be succeeding Chelsea as Premier League champions after being held 0-0 at relegation-threatened Norwich and Marseille's miserable season in France also continued. Elsewhere, Thomas Mueller scored twice as Bayern Munich warmed up for Juventus in the Champions League by easing to a 5-0 rout of Werder Bremen, and Inter Milan won to maintain its dream of a return to the Champions League.

Here is a look at Europe's major leagues: ENGLAND Costa plunged Chelsea into fresh controversy as Everton won 2-0 to end the last hope of a title for Hiddink's team in the quarterfinals. Chelsea had just been humiliated by former striker Romelu Lu-

kaku scoring twice in a fiveminute span, including a breathtaking solo goal, when Costa was sent off in the 84th minute.

The fiery striker thrust his head at Gareth Barry, then sunk his teeth toward the Everton midfielder's neck in a biting motion, and got a second yellow card. There was no immediate reaction from Barry to suggest he had been bitten but Costa was dismissed for the first time in two seasons at Chelsea.

"Without seeing, I don't want to give judgment on this," Hiddink said. "(Costa) was chased a bit in the game. They went after him.

They knew it. It is within the rules." Chelsea is 10th in the league and the FA Cup exit follows its elimination from the Champions League by Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday. Manchester City remained fourth in the EPL, nine points behind surprise leader Leicester.

Elsewhere, Graziano Pelle scored twice as Southampton won 2-1 at Stoke and Bournemouth beat Swansea 3-2.

SPAIN Lionel Messi scored one goal and figured in

Lionel Messi runs at Getafe’s Santiago Vergini during Barcelona’s 6-0 win at the Camp Nou. (AP Photo)

four more as Barcelona increased its Spanish record to 37 games without a loss in all competitions.

The only blemish on Messi's superb display was a missed penalty in the first half. Otherwise, the Argentina forward led a dominant performance that suggests problems for Arsenal as the London club bids to overturn a 2-0 loss in their Champions League

round-of-16 second leg on Wednesday.

Atletico Madrid stayed eight points behind the defending champions in second place after a 3-0 victory over Deportivo La Coruna.

Third-place Real Madrid will trail Barcelona by 15 points when it visits Las Palmas on Sunday.

Also Saturday, Iago Aspas scored with a brilliant chipped shot to give Celta

Warriors, Spurs remain perfect at home Los AngeLes, MArch 13 (AFP): The Golden State Warriors and San Antonio Spurs needed dominant fourth quarters on Saturday to keep their impressive NBA home winning streaks alive.

Spurs guard Danny Green was an unlikely catalyst in San Antonio, where the Spurs trailed by two going into the final period but emerged with a 93-85 victory over the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Green had missed all eight of his shots before draining a go-ahead threepointer with 7:19 left to play that ignited the Spurs' finishing burst. "(Green's) a pro and we made it clear to him there's only two outcomes -- it goes in or it doesn't," San Antonio coach Gregg Popovich said. "He still gets his paycheck. His family still loves him, so screw it, let 'em fly -- and he did."

The Spurs improved to 32-0 at home this season and have won 41 in a row dating back to last season.

In Oakland, California, the Warriors stretched their NBA record home winning streak to 48 with their 30th home win of this season, 123-116 over the struggling Phoenix Suns.

But they, too, had to rally in the fourth, overcoming a nine-point deficit after three quarters with the aid of a 14-0 fourth-quarter scoring run.

Superstar sharp-shoot-

Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors goes for the lay up against the Phoenix Suns during the game on March 12, 2016 at Oracle Arena in Oakland, California. (Getty Images)

er Stephen Curry, who missed most of the third quarter because of foul trouble, returned to score 15 points in the final frame.

Golden State trailed 108105 before Curry launched the decisive run with a game-tying three-pointer with 5:36 remaining.

The Suns missed their next six shots as the Warriors got a dunk by reserve center Marreese Speights, a dunk by Harrison Barnes and another three-pointer from Curry that gave the Warriors a 115-108 lead with 3:31 to play.

D ray m on d G re e n stretched the lead to nine with a driving basket and Curry made two freethrows to cap the 14-0 run.

Curry scored a gamehigh 35 points, making seven of 16 three-point attempts and handing out six assists. Speights added 25 points, Klay Thompson scored 20 and Green 19 for the Warriors, who were without NBA Finals Most Valuable Player Andre Iguodala because of a sprained left ankle.

Brandon Knight led the Suns with 30 points,

but Phoenix endured their third straight defeat and fell to 17-49, next-to-last in the Western Conference ahead of the lowly Los Angeles Lakers.

The Spurs, meanwhile, were up against a tough Oklahoma City team lying third in the West and trying to close the gap on secondplaced San Antonio.

Instead the Thunder lost their second straight, and their fourth of six on the road.

Kawhi Leonard scored 26 points and LaMarcus Aldridge added 24 for the Spurs and the Thunder went the final 3:53 without a field goal and missed nine of their last 10 shots.

"San Antonio is the best defensive team in the league, and we generated a lot of good looks tonight," said Oklahoma City's Kevin Durant, who led all scorers with 28 points.

"San Antonio hit some big shots in the fourth quarter -- especially Green's shot from the corner -- but we made them work for everything they got."

Nuggets rally past Wizards In Denver the Nuggets' second-half rally included out-scoring Washington 41-17 in the fourth quarter en route to a 116-100 victory over the Wizards.

The Charlotte Hornets notched their seventh straight victory, routing the Houston Rockets 125-109.

Vigo a 1-0 win over Real Sociedad and send it provisionally fifth.

GERMANY Bayern, which hosts Juventus on Wednesday after drawing 2-2 in their Champions League round-of-16 first leg, moved eight points clear of Borussia Dortmund, which plays Mainz on Sunday.

Mario Goetze played for the first time since get-

Penalty Shootout Tournament on March 19 DIMAPur, MArch 13 (Mexn): The MSW Trainees Batch 201517, NEISSR is organizing an Open Penalty Shootout on March 19 at Govt. Higher Secondary School, Half-Nagarjan Dimapur.

The tournament is being organized with the objectives of organizing a cataract medical camp, encouraging youth for peace through sports, and as a process of learning how to raise funds for social work, a press release informed.

The total price money for the event is set at Rs 20000 with the winner taking away Rs. 10000 while the runners-up will pocket Rs. 7000. The two semi-finalists will each be awarded Rs. 1000. Two individual prizes for best shooter and goal-keeper will be awarded Rs. 500 each.

Forms for the tournament are available at Kiren Sports Store. For participants from 4th mile to Chumukedima, one may contact 9862917562. The entry fee is Rs. 800 and forms are priced at Rs. 50 each. The last date of form submission will be March 17.

For further queries, contact 9862917562 / 8575046070 / 8413953636.

ting injured on international duty on Oct. 8 and the Germany forward had two efforts on goal.

Thiag o Alcantara scored at either end of the match, while Kingsley Coman assisted both those goals as well as Mueller's first. Robert Lewandowski claimed his 24th goal of the campaign in the 86th minute.

"When you win 5-0,

people think it's easy," Bayern coach Pep Guardiola said. "We played well, we didn't allow many counterattacks. Compliments to the team."

Earlier, Borussia Moenchengladbach defeated Eintracht Frankfurt 3-0 as former Croatia coach Niko Kovac — who replaced the fired Armin Veh on Tuesday — got off to a bad start.

Frankfurt, now eight games without a win, remained in the relegation playoff spot, level on 24 points with Hoffenheim, which defeated Wolfsburg 1-0 at home. 'Gladbach moved into fourth, three points behind Hertha Berlin.

ITALY Inter Milan beat Bologna 2-1 to move provisionally a point above Fiorentina into fourth place in Serie A. Danilo D'Ambrosio set up Ivan Perisic's 72ndminute opener and scored four minutes later. Bologna substitute Franco Brienza netted a consolation in the final minute.

Fiorentina plays Hellas Verona on Sunday, while third-place Roma — which is two points above Inter — visits Udinese. Inter goes

to Roma in a crucial match next weekend.

Inter will be without captain Mauro Icardi, who limped off in the ninth minute after injuring his knee when sliding in to try and intercept Eder's angled drive.

Earlier, Empoli defender Vincent Laurini scored his first goal in professional football to help his team rescue a 1-1 draw against Sampdoria.

FRANCE Marseille had goalkeeper Steve Mandanda to thank for scraping a 1-1 draw at Lorient.

While runaway league leader Paris Saint-Germain can seal a fourth straight title in style with eight games to go if it wins at Troyes on Sunday, Marseille is in 10th place and trails PSG by 35 points.

Me a n w h i l e, Ni c e moved provisionally up to third spot with a 2-0 win away to Montpellier, thanks to second-half goals from forwards Valere Germain and Alassane Plea, who was set up by winger Hatem Ben Arfa. Saint-Etienne and Caen both lost ground in the chase for third place after defeats.

Vechita receives lt. Velahu puro Memorial trophy

Vechita Khesoh receives the Lt. Velahii Puro Memorial Trophy 2016 from Parliamentary Secretary Khriehu Liezietsu. (Morung Photo) Our Correspondent Kohima | March 13

Winner of Naga Style Wrestling at the 25th Anniversary Tournament of Nagaland Wrestling Association, Vechita Khesoh was awarded the Lt. Velahii Puro Memorial Trophy 2016 during the closing ceremony of the tournament.

Vechita received a trophy, certificate and cash prize of Rs. 30,000. This is in addition to the Rs. 5 lakhs he pocketed for winning the Naga style wrestling during the tournament.

The Lt. Velahii Puro Memorial award has been initiated by the family members of late Velahii Puro, the first champion of the Naga Wrestling Board (NWB) Championship in 1972. Late Puro passed away on July 29, 2015

at the age of 71 years.

The award carries cash prize of Rs. 30,000 to the champion of the main NWA tournament along with a trophy for five championships.

Velahii Puro, son of Khuiinii Puro of Kikruma village under Phek district was born on August 9, 1944.

An all rounder of sorts, late Puro excelled in many sport disciplines – one of which was Naga style wrestling. He gained much recognition and prominence in the sport and attained the pinnacle when he became the first champion of the Naga Wrestling Board (NWC) Championships which was held on March 15, 1972 at Kohima.

Puro later married Veluhulu on December 23, 1975 and the couple was

blessed with four sons and five daughters.

His earliest participation in wrestling competition was when he represented Chakhesang at a Naga Wrestling competition organized by Japfu State, Federal Government of Nagaland, held at a Shukhumei (Tongon/ Sakhami) village, under Shepoumaramth- the present Senapati district of Manipur state on March 22, 1965.

Apart from his wrestling profession, Puro also held offices on different occasions in various wrestling associations. He was the Treasurer of the apex- Nagaland Wrestling Association from 1982-1988 and President of the Chakhesang Wrestling Association from 2003-2005.

public discourse

March 15 is World Consumer Rights Day

N

agaland, in unison with the rest of the world, shall celebrate the World Consumer Rights Day on 15th March’2016. The World Consumer Rights Day is an occasion of solidarity among consumers for promotion of the rights of consumers and to ensure that consumers are protected from unscrupulous traders and their consumer grievances are redressed.

The theme for the World Consumer Rights Day 2016 is – “Antibiotics off the menu”. It is a campaign to stop the sale of meat raised with the use of antibiotics important to human medicine.

Antibiotic resistance is driven by over use of antibiotics. About half of the antibiotics produced globally are used in agriculture to promote faster growth and to prevent diseases rather than treat diseases. The use of antibiotics in agriculture is due to increase by two thirds by 2030, from 63,200 tons in 2010, to 105,600 tons in 2030. Antibiotics have been hailed as one of the greatest medical discoveries of the 20th century when Alexander Fleming discovered Penicillin in 1928. Deadly diseases like tuberculosis, typhoid fever and

meningitis have been cured by antibiotics. However, the same life-saving drugs that are prescribed to treat infections and diseases in humans are also used to fatten the animals that supply the chicken, beef and pork that are consumed every day by humans. But humans would bear the cost of consuming cheap meat in the long run.

Studies showed that animals that had the drugs in their feed put on more weight in lesser time than animals on a traditional diet. Pigs that got an antibiotic were shown to need 10 to 15 percent less feed to reach the same weight as pigs on regular diets.

Therefore, large-scale meat production requires antibiotics. Its use in farming is threatening to make some common ailments untreatable as the indiscriminate use of antibiotics breeds antibiotic – resistance to lifesaving drugs, due to which common infections and minor injuries may once again kill.

Routine use of antibiotics renders antibiotics powerless against deadly infections caused by bacteria. Drug resistant bacteria in animals inevitably spread to humans.

Every year, 2 million people in the US

get infections that are resistant to antibiotics, and at least 23,000 people die as a result. Studies suggest that eliminating the regular use of antibiotics on farms could have a dramatic, almost instantaneous, effect on animal and human health.

Consumers therefore have an important role to play in persuading food companies and butchers to make the changes that are needed to stop the global public health threat for prudent use of antibiotics and protect the drugs for the future.

The Legal Metrology & Consumer Protection Department enforces the Legal Metrology Act as well as the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011 to enforce the sale of packaged commodities such as food products with mandatory declarations on the packages such as the name and address of the manufacturer or packer or importer, the month and year of packaging or import, etc. and defaulters are prosecuted under the Legal Metrology Act and Rules.

Bizo M. Kuotsu Joint Controller & HoD Legal Metrology & Consumer Protection, Nagaland Kohima

bandhs on the rise

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henever we hear the word bandh , one place comes to our mind "Karbi Anglong". Over the years we have joke over the frequent bandhs that were imposed by the various organisations in Karbi Anglong. Bandh no doubt is an effective way of protesting but unfortunately there is growing incidence where it's being misused for narrow interests .

Bandh breaks the flow of human life, delays our work, leads to loss of revenue, makes us miss our interviews, exams get cancelled , public as well as private property get damaged, incidents of assaults and harassment of passengers , ruins people's wedding and a nightmare for patients etc. looking at the present scenario of our society what we have joke about all this years , we are sadly practicing it now. Call for Bandh by various organisation is on the rise . There is always a threat for bandh in the newspaper with the ultimatium " if demands not meet we will take our own course of action for which the government would be held solely responsible " . It's becoming a favourite tool for various organisations to make known of their grievances and get

their demands fulfilled. Unfortunately a negative precedence has been set up in Haryana where the Jat agitators completely hijack the state for nearly 10 days which led to loss of crores of public and mostly private property and loss of precious human life and instead of taking action against those responsible for looting, arson and violence , the Haryana government decided to look into their grievances and give in to their demands . Just hope that the various organisations in Nagaland do not copy the same tactics as we are good at copy cating but sadly we copy mostly the negative things.

Bandh may be fun to some extend for salaried employee because it means a day off from work but its a curse to the poor daily wage earner whose daily wage suffers, a curse to the enterpreneurs whose business get affected, a curse for travellers who get stranded for hours. Finally incurring a bigger loss to the state and the country. Therefore the administration need to ensure that bandhs are not encouraged and forcefully imposed upon the people by various organisations and they can do that by being serious about the genuine

grievance of the public. They should not be always in a fire fight mode, playing catch up game and get caught off guard like the lynching of an accused by mobs in Dimapur. Government need to be pro active over genuine issue and come up with a compromise solution to the problem, instead of waiting for something to happen. If they are going to solve the problems and going to take necessary action , why wait to take action after the bandh has been imposed and people take the law in their own hand.

If the government walk the talk and do what is needful then the so called bandh will not be a part of our politics but if the government continues to neglects the genuine grievances of the people and take the public for a ride by playing politics and blame game over issues related to pothole roads, development, breaking down of law and order, corruption, nepotism, favouritism etc then bandh will be the order of the day and it will not be beneficial for state like Nagaland which is yet to achieved political, social and economic stability.

Moameren Pongen Asst Prof, Chumukedima

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 14•03•2016

EntErtainmEnt

David Beckham ‘bailed out’ wife Victoria’s Fashion Empire

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ootball star David Beckham bailed out wife Victoria's fashion empire with 5.2million pounds after designer brand lost 3.8million pounds in a year. The former Manchester United and Real Madrid footballer, 40, helped the ex-Spice Girl out in what has been described as "discounted operations", reports dailymail.co.uk.

It comes after Victoria, 41, who made a turnover of 34million pounds in 2014, set up her own store in Mayfair, London two years ago. The shop cost her nearly 3million pounds.

The Director's Report said: "The contracts held by the company relating to the David Beckham brand were transferred during the Vision Trinity has released its 5th original single ‘Crazy’. The song is a short epic mash up consisting of different genres of music year to DB Ventures Ltd, a (Progressive Rock, Pop and slight 90’s touch). All of the band’s original songs consist of different genres of music. The band will sister company of David be releasing their video shortly. The songs can be downloaded directly from Reverbnation or through the band’s Facebook page. Beckham Brand Holdings Ltd which is focused on exploiting the David Beckham brand."

Chartered accountant and tax lecturer Robert viously reported that his role was "not believed to be a leading role, though all plot and cast details are being kept closely guarded as is often the way with a Nolan project."

Nolan, along with his partner Emma Thomas, has been undertaking extensive cast searches for the film. Alongside Styles, newcomer Fionn Whitehead will take the lead role - despite having few credits besides membership of the prestigious National Youth Theatre to his name.

As the title of the film suggests, Nolan will be veering away from the arenas of physics-bending space-time adventures (Interstellar and Inception) and Gotham (his Dark Knight Trilogy) and into the realms of history.

The film will see the confirmed cast of Mark Rylance, Kenneth Branagh and Tom Hardy take on the events of the World War II ven before One Di- would be in one of the most evacuation of Dunkirk in rection broke thou- credible-looking dramas of the late spring of 1940. sands of hearts the 2017: Christopher Nolan's It's said that these Britworld over with news of starry war history epic, ish acting heavyweights a "hiatus", Harry Styles's Dunkirk. will be part of an ensemble Naga Idol finalist 2010 Kekhriesenuo Ringa presstar had been set for HolAccording to Variety, of largely unknown actors, ents a special number entitled “There are no orlywood. the 22-year-old singer will of which Styles may be one. phans of God” during the 4th anniversary of But nobody could have be starring in the film, alSource: Bright Morning Star Children Home at Perizie Colpredicted that his first role though Deadline had preTelegraph.co.uk ony, Kohima on March 12. (Morung Photo)

Harry Styles’s first film role confirmed

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C M Y K

Legally Blonde Jacqueline Fernandez flies to Hollywood with Pitbull’s next music video Chihuahua dies at 18

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eese Witherspoon posted a heartfelt tribute Friday to her doggie co-star in Legally Blonde, who has died at the age of 18.

The actress, 39, posted a photo of herself with Chihuahua Moonie - who played her onscreen companion Bruiser Woods in the 2001 comedy and its 2003 sequel -to break the news to her social media followers. 'With a sad heart, I have to let all the #LegallyBlonde fans know that Bruiser Woods (also known as Moonie) passed away yesterday. He was a sweet little Chihuahua who was very loved,' she wrote. 'I will never forget all the days we spent together,' Reese went on. ' I'm sure his tail is wagging in the sky. Sending love to his trainer, the wonderful @tailsticks #RIPBruiser.'

The movie star clearly bonded deeply with the little dog. In December 29010, when she received a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame, she invited Moonie to be a part of the ceremony.

'My very, very famous costar Bruiser,' she said as she introduced the pup. 'He’s a very busy working dog and he managed to show up today.' She then happily posed for photos with the Chihuahua and her star.

Source: MailOnline

fter Priyanka Chopra's collaboration with Pitbull for her single 'Exotic' and Sonam Kapoor's special appearance in Coldplay's 'Hymn for the weekend', Jacqueline would be the next actress to join the league of international projects.

According to a leading portal, Jacqueline Fernandez is all geared up to share screen space with rapper Pitbull in his next music video.The 'Kick' star will shoot for her role by March end or by April. It is also rumored that 'Queen' actress Kangana Ranaut was in the

run for bagging this project as well, but eventually the project went to Jacqueline.

Jacqueline currently has her bag full with proj-

ects and will be seen in Sajid Samji & Farhad Samji's next 'Housefull 3' , 'Dishoom' and 'A Flying Jatt.'

Source: ANI

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Leach told The Sun: "The accounts suggest it is a transfer of operations between companies owned

by Victoria and David.

In effect the couple are simply moving the profits between themselves." At

the end of last year, figures revealed that David and Victoria Beckham's earnings were said so high that their second careers are even more lucrative than their first.

Source: IANS

12

monDAY 14•03•2016

SPORTS

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

PSG demolish Troyes to clinch Ligue 1 title

Zlatan Ibrahimovic makes it 4-0 during the Ligue 1 match against Troyes at Stade de l'Aube on March 13 in Troyes. (Getty Images)

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PARIS, MARch 13 (ReuteRS): Four goals from Zlatan Ibrahimovic spurred Paris St Germain to their fourth successive Ligue 1 title with a 9-0 rout of Troyes, becoming the first team to win the championship after 30 matches.

Ibrahimovic's sensational nine-minute hattrick at the start of the second half followed goals from Edinson Cavani, Javier Pastore and Adrien Rabiot.

Matthieu Saunier's own goal and further strikes by Cavani and Ibrahimovic boosted the total. PSG

moved up to 77 points, 25 clear of second-place Monaco, winning the league with eight games still to play.

The championship is the sixth in the club's history and the fastest-ever Ligue 1 victory, breaking the record set by Gerard Houllier's Olympique Lyonnais in 2007, who won the title after 33 matches.

PSG knew that victory over Troyes would secure a historic league triumph following Monaco's 2-2 draw at home to Reims on Friday, leaving them 22 points behind the leaders having

played a game more.

The home side started brightly, but Cavani pounced on a wayward pass from Saunier to open the scoring in the 13th minute, his 13th league goal of the season.

Pastore added a second in the 17th minute after receiving a delicious backheel from Ibrahimovic, evading the attentions of two defenders and finishing calmly over Matthieu Dreyer.

It was 3-0 inside 20 minutes when Cavani's effort was saved by Dreyer and

Rabiot slammed home the rebound to take the contest firmly beyond shambolic Troyes.

Ligue 1 top scorer Ibrahimovic made it 4-0 in the 46th minute after fine interplay with Cavani, then added his 25th of the season and 100th goal in Ligue 1 moments later by burying Angel Di Maria's excellent cross.

Ibrahimovic completed his sublime hat-trick three minutes later after fine work from Layvin Kurzawa, with Saunier's own goal in the 58th minute securing PSG's 24th league win of the season.

Troyes substitute Lossemy Karaboue was sent off for denying Cavani a goalscoring opportunity only 10 minutes after coming on and the Uruguayan added the eighth goal from the rebound after Dreyer saved his penalty.

Ibrahimovic took his league tally to 27 at the death following a devastating counter attack as PSG completed a magnificent afternoon.

Having won a domestic quadruple last season, the Qatari-owned side remain on course to better that haul.

They have already won the Trophy of Champions and are still in the running for the French Cup, the League Cup and the Champions League, having eliminated Chelsea in the round of 16 on Wednesday.

Klitschko-Fury rematch: June date on cards

BeRLIn, MARch 13 (AFP): Wladimir Klitschko's management has confirmed there are talks over a world heavyweight rematch against Britain's Tyson Fury in Austria with a date of June 4 still to be confirmed.

Hamburg-based Klitschko lost his WBA, IBF, IBO and WBO belts to Britain's Fury on points in Duesseldorf last November as the Ukrainian suffered his first defeat in more than a decade. Klitschko's management say Klagenfurt's Woerthersee Ukrainian World heavyweight boxing champion Wladimir Klitschko (L) and British Tyson Fury fight during the Stadium, a 32,000-capacity WBA, IBF, WBO and IBO title bout in Duesseldorf, west- venue which hosted European championship football matchern Germany, on November 28, 2015. (AFP Photo)

es in 2008, is the most likely option to stage the bout.

"Yes, that's right. We are in negotiations, but for confidential reasons, we can't give out any more information at this stage," Nicola Pattberg of the Klitschko Management Group (KMG) told Austrian newspaper the Kleine Zeitung.

London's Wembley Stadium and Munich's Allianz Arena have already both been ruled out as potential venues, according to reports. Klitschko, who turns 40 on March 25, regularly holds his training camps in the Austrian alps.

Chakhesang youths demonstrate tactics of Naga wrestling during the recently concluded Nagaland Wrestling Association’s 25th Anniversary Tournament in Kohima. (Morung Photo)

Lin Dan wins sixth All-England badminton title

BIRMInghAM, MARch 13 (AFP): China's Lin Dan -- regarded by many as the greatest badminton player of all time -- made another entry into the record books when he regained the AllEngland Open title on Sunday.

Lin's 21-9, 21-10 victory in the final over his compatriot Tian Houwei was a thrilling rebuttal to those critics who reckoned that, aged 32 and with a mere handful of titles in the past three years, he is past his best.

Mischievously skilful, he ensured that the outcome of this final was never in doubt.

Instead, Lin, who now has

six All-England titles, suggested a third Olympic men’s singles gold medal could well be possible in Rio de Janeiro in five months' time.

"I want to show everyone that at 33 I will still be able to do it," he said. It was four years since Lin had last won the All-England, but his total of men's singles titles here has now only been surpassed

by Rudy Hartono, the great Indonesian, who won eight.

But that was more than 40 years ago and in the preprofessional era.

China's Lin Dan now has six All-England badminton titles.

(AFP Photo)

Watford stun holders Arsenal in FA Cup

London, MARch 13 (AFP): Odion Ighalo and Adlene Guedioura struck as Watford ended Arsenal's two-year reign as FA Cup holders with a brilliant 2-1 quarter-final victory at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.

Ighalo put Watford ahead in the 50th minute before Troy Deeney teed up Algeria winger Guedioura to slam a right-foot screamer into the top-right corner, with Danny Welbeck's 88thminute reply coming too late.

Triumphant in the FA Cup in 2014 and 2015, Arsenal were beaten in the competition for the first time since a 1-0 fifth-round defeat by Blackburn Rovers in February 2013.

It left them facing the prospect of a trophyless season, with Arsene Wenger's side eight points off the pace in the Premier League and 2-0 down to Barcelona ahead of Wednesday's Gabriel of Arsenal battles with Odion Ighalo of Watford during the Emirates FA Champions League last 16 return leg at Cup sixth round match between Arsenal and Watford at Emirates Stadium on Camp Nou. March 13, 2016 in London, England. (Getty Images)

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