March 17th, 2015

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The Morung Express

Dimapur VOL. X ISSUE 73

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Tuesday, March 17, 2015 12 pages Rs. 4

We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny Shraddha and Aditya are back together!

Congress hits the street against land bill

reflections

By Sandemo Ngullie

Prog on child rights and protection held in Longleng

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Myanmar students at odds with Nagaland Governor urges for ‘People to people connection’ older activists as reforms stall Our Correspondent

If the Modi government doesn’t extend the ceasefire, I’d like to buy your house.

Public Information All press statements, memorandums, articles, reports and news related documents should be sent to the official email address:

morung@gmail.com

Press releases will be accepted only till 8:00 pm Editor, The Morung Express

CMO Peren informs on Swine Flu vaccine DIMAPUR, MARCH 16 (MExN): The office of the Chief Medical Officer Peren has informed that vaccine for Swine Flu is available at District Hospital Peren. A press note from the CMO, Peren said that 100 vials of vaccines have arrived. Due to limited vaccines stock preferences will be given to patients after medical examination and will be administered under supervision of a medical practitioner, it added. The public have been informed to contact the Medical Officer in charge of District Hospital Peren and avail the vaccine on payment of Rs. 720 per dose with effect from March 18.

‘Conversations between Naga political groups will continue’

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DIMAPUR, MARCH 16 (MExN): The Forum for Naga Reconciliation (FNR) today informed that “ongoing conversations between the Naga Political Groups are already taking place and will continue.”

A press note from the FNR stated that after meeting with Church and civil society leaders from March 9 to 11, the FNR also met with the NSCN/ GPRN and the GPRN /NSCN. “We are very much encouraged by the support expressed by both groups for the approach to sovereignty expressed in the civil society Statement. Their joint support provides an excellent basis for moving forward in the wider conversation as proposed in the Statement,” the FNR said. “All agreed that the Statement will open the way for both groups to respond positively to future invitations to participate in the broader civil society conversation as proposed in the Statement,” it added.

The groups, informed the FNR, have also expressed their commitment to find a way of coming together in their search for a way forward. While acknowledging the “difficulties in the past of groups honouring commitments,” the FNR expressed determination to “do all in its humble capacity to ensure that the Church and civil society Statement is implemented in letter and spirit.”

–Martin Luther King Jr.

Williams, Federer, Nadal advance at Indian Wells

New Zealand confronts violent past, gives new hope to Maoris

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YANGON, MARCH 16 (REUTERS): Kyaw Min Yu’s first political rally was almost his last.

On March 16, 1988, he joined a group of Yangon students protesting against the military junta which then ran Myanmar. They had reached a lakeside spot called White Bridge when police and soldiers attacked.

By some accounts, nearly 100 students were clubbed to death or drowned in what has come to be known as the Red Bridge incident, the day 27 years ago when the White Bridge turned red with blood.

“Sometimes, I can still hear the sound of the police’s red wood sticks hitting students’ heads,” said Kyaw Min Yu, who managed to escape and became one of the leaders of the famous anti-junta group, the 88 Generation Students.

Students are again protesting in Myanmar and police have responded harshly. Kyaw Min Yu, now 46, says he has regular contact with the students and has given informal advice but he declined to give details. But it’s clear that some of the older generation of activists, including democracy icon Aung San Suu Kyi, are at odds with the students over their tactics.

Suu Kyi now fights her battles in parliament as leader of

parliament under a constitution written by the last military government.

Last week, riot police used wooden batons to forcibly disperse students protesting against a new education law, arresting over 125 of them. The crackdown in the town of Letpadan, near Yangon, was a reminder that some hardliners remained in positions of power and could derail the reforms.

Student protesters shout slogans during a protest ahead of a crackdown in Letpadan, 140 kilometers north of Myanmar’s main city of Yangon on March 10, 2015. (AP File Photo)

the opposition and is engaged in a fraught reform process with the semi-civilian government of President Thein Sein. The students have little faith the government is committed to completing Myanmar’s transition to democracy.

The students still revere Suu Kyi and are reluctant to criticise her. But their isolation from the reform process they worry is going nowhere is likely to push them to take to the

ACAUT slams ‘unethical’ government appointments DIMAPUR, MARCH 16 (MExN): The Against Corruption and Unabated Taxation (ACAUT) Nagaland today stated that the show cause notice issued to 119 employees of the Nagaland state Health and Family Department has “brought to fore the illegal unethical practices in appointments.”

A press note from the ACAUT Nagaland lauded the Director for Health and Family Welfare for issuing the show cause notices terming it as a “bold and ethical stand.” The 119 employees, informed the ACAUT, were not sanctioned posts. “This is a worse case scenario considering the fact that these people were appointed as regulars. It is also interesting to note that 89% of the appointments were made between the years 2007-

2009,” said ACAUT. At a time when the state government is facing financial deficit, it lamented that unethical practices in appointments have drained the state of precious resources and slammed the “rampant nepotism and favouritism in the system.”

Terming the stand of the Health and Family Department as “culture-changing,” ACAUT said that this “probably breaks the myth that there are no credible men and women in the bureaucracy in Nagaland today.”

It urged the department to pursue the case with outmost sincerity without any fear or favour and assured that ACAUT is “solidly behind the department in its endeavour to fight the corruption of illegal appointments.” It further appealed to other departments to initiate similar initiatives.

streets again and radicalise Myanmar’s politics.

After 49 years of military rule, Thein Sein’s semi-civilian government took power in 2011 and made wide-ranging and rapid reforms that initially inspired optimism Myanmar would become fully democratic. But the reforms have stalled.

Thein Sein and many of his cabinet colleagues are former generals. Serving officers are guaranteed a quarter of the seats in

DIFFERING OVER TACTICS The differences with the groups in the formal opposition came to the fore when students continued to protest against the education law even after the government accepted their demands for change. The students do not believe that parliament will enact the changes to legislation they say will stifle academic freedom. “We want to see the written agreement,” Lin Htet Naing said.

Suu Kyi’s advisers say she is frustrated students will not give the parliamentary process time to play out.

“The students demanded results by a certain date,” Nyan Win, one of the top leaders at the NLD, told Reuters. “She told them that would be impossible.

They don’t understand the process of parliament.”

DIMAPUR, MARCH 16 (MExN):The Nagaland (Dimapur) police have arrested two more persons in connection with the March 5 incident. This has brought the total number of arrests to 56. Both the persons were arrested from Dimapur, informed Dimapur ASP/PRO Shouka Kakheto. One of the persons was on the Look Out notice issued by the police, and both have been suggested by the police to be ring leaders of the mob that led to the lynching of a man on March 5.

Dimapur Police issue Look Out Notice (Details on Page 5)

NLA session from today Our Correspondent Kohima | March 16

The 8th session of the 12th Nagaland Legislative Assembly (NLA) will take place from March 17 here. Another session will be held on March 19. According to the provisional programme of business, day one (March 17) will be marked by questions, obituary references, laying of annual administrative reports, reports papers rules, presentation of supplementary demands for grant, presentation of CAG Report (2013-2014) etc. Proceedings on March 19 will witness laying of reports; discussion and voting on supplementary demands for grants; introduction, consideration and passing of various bills; announcement of the constitution of various financial and non-financial committees and panel; etc. The sessions will be chaired by the NLA Speaker, Chotisuh Sazo.

AR continue to defy CFGR: NSCN (IM) DIMAPUR, MARCH 16 (MExN): The NSCN (IM) today alleged that the Assam Rifles “continue to defy and trample upon” the Cease Fire Ground Rules (CFGR). In a press note from its MIP, the NSCN (IM) alleged that AR troops “raided the house of V Zholia, Steering Executive Member” at 4:30am on March 16 “in his residence at Naga United Village.”

It is appalling, said the NSCN (IM), that “despite several meetings and discussions on the issue of respecting the CFGR, Assam Rifles continues to ranand Peace Talk between the Government of India and NSCN,” the said news channel “had no knowledge of the Government of India position on NSCN.” The NSCN (IM) added that it is equally concerned as to how the editor of that particular channel “allows

Nagaland Governor, PB Acharya today emphasized on the need to develop “people to people connections” between people in the North East region and rest of India.

Addressing a press conference this afternoon, the Governor said that the perceived backwardness of North East is not the creation of the people of the region, but it is a section of people from the mainland, who have no knowledge of the region and are reluctant to show interest in the region.

Acharya said that the present government at the centre has realized the importance of the North East, as the region may help the economic development of the country with its resources, and act as the way to open business with the neighbouring countries.

He also informed that as part of a mission to develop “people to people connection,” a batch of school teachers from Maharashtra will come to Nagaland to work in various schools for a month and they will be replaced against one teacher each, who will work in Maharashtra for one month. The details of this initiative is yet to be finalized, it was informed.

On the March 5 violence in Dimapur, the Governor stuck to

the rhetoric of only condemning the incident, while appealing to people not to take the law into their own hands. He appreciated the steps taken by the Chief Minister and Home Minister and appealed to all to wait for the Inquiry Committee report.

The Governor further informed that a team of six Specialist Doctors will come to Nagaland for a two-day camp in the Naga Hospital, Kohima from March 25 to 26. Acharya said that the specialist doctors will be available for consultation.

People can register their names in Naga Hospital with a nominal charge of Rs 10 to 15. The team of doctors will also interact with the local doctors and visit all district headquarters of the state. This programme, the Goverbnor informed, will be an annual event.

All doctors in the team have been in service for more than 15 to 25 years. In this regard a meeting was also held on March 12 at the chamber of Commissioner Secretary Health and Family Welfare, which decided that the principal director would be the nodal officer for the medical camp. Two liaison officers have also been detailed. All OPD cases will be attended in regular OPD rooms and the MD/MS NHAK have been asked to make the necessary arrangements for OPD cases.

March 5 incident: BJP nagaland urges central party two more arrested leadership to protect minorities

NSCN (IM) concerned by ‘concocted reports’

DIMAPUR, MARCH 16 (MExN): The NSCN (IM) today expressed concern at certain sections of the national media broadcasting “concocted reports,” which “unnecessarily tried to sensationalise” the March 5 incident “by cooking up more unsubstantiated conspiracy theory dragging in the name of NSCN.” The NSCN (IM) informed that a journalist from a national news channel has termed it as a “terrorist group” and a “banned organisation.”

This, stated the NSCN (IM) “only shows their information deficiency in regards to the Naga people movements.”

A press note from the MIP of the NSCN (IM) lamented that “till today, after more than 17 years of Cease Fire Agreement

Kohima | March 16

domly defy and trample upon the very Agreement that create peaceful and conducive environment for the stability and progress of “ political negotiation” between the Government of India and Government of the People’s Republic of Nagalim.”

It demanded that the Chairman of the Cease Fire Monitoring Group (CFMG) “rein in the arrogant Assam Rifles to properly educate them the mutual benefit of disciplining under the current CFGR.”

such unprocessed knowledge to be documented in their journalistic history.”

It advised the said channel to “do basic research” and look up the list of banned terrorist organisations under Section 35 of Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967 of

the Government of India “and tell us if they find NSCN in the list of banned organisations.” Stating that investigative journalism is at stake, the NSCN (IM) urged the channel to “rectify and apologise to NSCN in particular and Nagas in general.”

DIMAPUR, MARCH 16 (MExN): The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Nagaland unit has condemned the recent incidents in India, where a nun was gang raped in West Bengal and a Church was vandalized in Haryana.

In a press statement, BJP media cell, Nagaland unit termed these incidents as “most disgusting and inhuman, which needs to be rooted out as soon as possible if social fabric of Indian constitution is to be preserved.”

It added that such crimes “committed by some few self vested persons in the name of BJP is highly condemnable and the central BJP leadership

needs to address this issue at the earliest.”

Secularism being a vital part of Indian constitution needs to be protected and preserved, if Indian union is to remain united, the BJP Nagaland unit reiterated.

Such acts by ultras in the name of religion, it asserted needs to be “curbed by the BJP central leadership and the BJP government under Narendra Modi, before the BJP as a party becomes a liability to the people of India, instead of governing India to a developed and an industrialized nation.”

The BJP Nagaland also termed the attack on churches in Lahore, Pakistan where dozens of pre-

cious lives were lost as a “desperate attempt to damage and stop the growth of Christianity in Pakistan.”

This attack on the minorities, it said, have serious implications not only on the religion but also affects the social balance of the country as a whole.

The BJP Nagaland strongly urged the concerned state governments and law enforcing agencies to investigate in a proper manner without any bias.

It further hoped that such incidents do not occur anywhere in the country and called for effective and stringent measures to protect religious minorities across India.

‘A drop of water is powerful’ Our Correspondent Kohima | March 16

“A drop of water is flexible. A drop of water is powerful. A drop of water is in demand,” said Anenla S Longchari, Secretary for Public Health Engineering Department (PHED), Nagaland while launching the National Rural Drinking Water &Sanitation Awareness week here today.

Water, she said, is the core of sustainable development, on which poverty reduction, economic growth, environmental health and hygiene are dependent.

The awareness campaign will culminate on March 22, World Water Day. The occasion intends to offer a global reminder of how critical fresh water is for life as well as how limited supplies are.

Kevisekho Kruse, Chief Engineer, PHED meanwhile said that the campaign will focus on safe drinking water from a health point of view. We need adequate water in quantity and quality, he said, adding that the campaign will also touch on water related diseases. In India, 1000 children die every day because of diarrhea caused by unsafe water, he informed. In Nagaland, the most common contaminations include excess iron and nitrates.

Kruse stressed on the need for hygienic water handling practices and water conservation. Kruse further stated that special emphasis will be given to rain water harvesting.

He said the campaign will also focus on the role of WATSAN committees for effective operation and maintenance of water supply systems, while encouraging more household water connections.

Kruse stated that the campaign will focus on the problem of garbage and the need for effective management of waste through the mantra of ‘Reduce, Reuse and Recycle.’ The campaign will also highlight the importance of toilets in schools and Angawadi centres and create more awareness on the National Award for clean villages- Nirmal Gram Puraskar (NGP).

This award is for the villages which are totally open defecation free and which have garbage free environments. “Nagaland has a total of 90 villages already awarded with NGP and many more have qualified for receiving the award,” said Kruse.

The campaign will largely deal with issues of sanitation, which according to Kruse is vital for human health, economic benefits, dignity, social status and the environment.

National Rural Drinking Water & Sanitation Awareness week launched in Nagaland

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The Morung Express 2 LocaL Prog on child rights and Khumtsü village in Wokha inaugurated protection held in Longleng Dimapur

Tuesday

17 March 2015

LongLEng, March 16 (MExn): The District Child Protection Unit Longleng held a sensitisation programme on child rights and child protection on March 10 at Phom Lempong Christian Association ,Convention Hall, Longleng with Nikhashe Sema (NCS), Deputy Commissioner, Longleng as special guest, Who Spoke on the importance of child education.

A press release issued

by Munglen Phom, DCPO, District Child Protection Unit, Social Welfare dept stated that the resource person, Vezokho Nyekha (Azo), Legal cum Probation Officer spoke on child rights, child protection, and the objective of organizing the sensitization pro-

gramme. He highlighted on the contribution of the legal services to children in need of care and protection and children in conflict with law. He emphasized on the contradiction in dealing with children in conflict with customary laws and with Legal law’s. He also spoke on the vulnerabilities to situations and actions that lead to abusing, neglect, abandoned, exploitation, surrendered and separation of children.

He said every child has the right to be taken care of, the right to education and the right to be safe at home.

Rokokhrielie, Programme Officer, State Child Protection Society, Nagaland , Kohima highlighted on the importance of Integrated Child Protec-

tion Scheme, and had a deliberation with the Child Welfare Committee’s, Juvenile Justice Board and the Staff’s of DCPU, Longleng.

The programme was chaired by Yanthriba A. Sangtam, Protection Officer(Non Institutional Care)District Child Protection Unit, Longleng .Welcome address was delivered by Munglen Phom, District Child Protection Officer, District Child Protection Unit, Longleng. The programme was attended by the Village Council Chairman, Village Development Boards, Women Societies, Church Leaders, Angawadi workers, school teachers, Gaon Bura, Student leaders and the public in general.

MSW students trained on finance management

DIMaPur, March 15 (MExn): North East Institute of Social Sciences and Research (NEISSR) conducted a workshop on “Financial Education for Young Investors” in collaboration with Security and Exchange Board of India (SEBI), Dimapur on March 12. Dr. ML Ngullie, representative from SEBI, was the resource person for the workshop. Attended by the staff and students of NEISSR, the event began with

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welcome address from Rev. Fr. C.P. Anto, Director of Peace Channel and Principal, NEISSR. Dr. ML Ngullie highlighted the importance of financial planning, financial goals, investment, budgeting and stock market. He also imparted ideas, strategies and various other steps for a proper financial maintenance. The workshop concluded with a vote of thanks from Imlikala, MSW Trainee.

kohIMa, March 16 (MExn): Khumtsü village, which is located around 25 km from Wokha town, was inaugurated by BJP MLA Dr. TM Lotha on March 10.

Addressing a huge gathering as chief guest, Dr. TM Lotha urged the newly established village council administration to work cohesively towards the welfare of the village, stating that leaders have to sacrifice a lot in the initial stage for the village to have a better future.

A press release from Amongo Ezung, PS to Dr. TM Lotha further informed that the MLA expressed optimism that the huge rubber plantation and enormous agricultural and allied potentials will accelerate growth and progress of the village. He also emphasized on the urgent need to shift from tradition-

procedure and technique involved in the process and explained that making own laundry detergent powder, hand wash gel, dish wash or all purpose cleaner not only saves money but it also gives a sense of joy and accomplishment. She further encouraged the women SHGs to take up this venture as its preparation technique is not only simple and easy but is a fast process and products can be easily sold which will help them gain additional income for their family and for the group.

Sentinaro Longchar also demonstrated the topic on preparation of green chilli pickle and mix vegetable pickle. She demonstrated and gave detailed informa-

tion on ingredients required and method of preparation for green chilli pickle, mix vegetable pickle and recipe for mango and tomato pickle followed by bottling, packing, sealing and storing of the product. She encouraged the participants that food preservation is so attractive that this process not only generates and accelerates earning but also plays a major role in the employment generation especially for women folks.

A total of 25 participants from different SHGs of Diezephe, Selouphe, Bade and urra attended the demonstration programme. The programme ended with positive response from the participants.

villagers to leave behind all past rancor and look forward with positive mindset and cultivate a strong work ethic in order to build a sustainable and self-reliant village economy.

The village inauguration plaque was dedicated

by Rev. Elhio Tsopoe, while

ABAM Nokte Mission youths attend leadership training

the inauguration function was chaired by the Village Council Chairman Shenthungo Ezung. Robin Lotha, Deputy Commissioner of Wokha, also graced the event as the guest of honour.

Others who spoke at the programme included Mhao Humtsoe, Chairman Lotha

Hoho, Zayio Ezung, Chairman, Longsa vIllage Council and Z Ovung, Chairman, Pongidong Village Council.

A brief history of the village was delivered by M Athungo Naga, while vote of thanks was pronounced by Thungchibemo Humtsoe, the release added.

MEx File

Mkg to observe sanitation awareness week Mokokchung, March 16 (DIPr): With the rest of the country, National rural drinking water & sanitation awareness week will be observed in Mokokchung town from March 17. EE PHED Mokokchung Division, Er M. Yanger Pongen said that a number of programmes would be held during the week in different parts of the town to create more awareness on drinking water and sanitation. A mass rally will be held in collaboration with Sungkomen Baptist Church Youth Ministry at IOC Sungkomen Ward on March 17 at 10:00 AM where Deputy Commissioner, Mokokchung Sushil Kumar Patel is expected to address the rally. Workshop for WATSAN committees, painting competition among school students, cleaning of water tanks/reservoir, water sources and cleaning of traditional wells in all the villages in the district will be held during the week.

Ex-servicemen rally at Zakhama postponed kohIMa, March 16 (DIPr): Lt. Col. Emron Musavi, PRO (Defence), Kohima in a press release informed that the Ex-Serviceman rally at Zakhama scheduled on March 17 has been postponed. Fresh date will be intimated later.

The youth participants with resource persons and others during the exposure cum leadership training held at Youth Oasis Centre, Dimapur.

DIMaPur, March 16 (MExn): The Ao Baptist Church Association (ABAM) Mission, Nokte Baptist Church Association comprising of 19 churches brought together around 40 leaders for exposure cum leadership training under the theme ‘Youth in Making’, which was held at Youth

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BJP MLA Dr. TM Lotha along with DC Wokha duirng the inauguration of Khumtsü village on March 10.

al system of paddy cultivation towards productive and sustainable farming, including cash crops and horticultural products, as the latter is more lucrative and commercially competitive. Assuring all possible help from the government, Lotha also urged the

Need based demonstration programme for SHGs held DIMaPur, March 16 (MExn): A need based d e m o n s t rat i o n p ro gramme on ‘Preparation of pickle’ and ‘Home care products’ as requested by the SHG’s was organised

by Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) – Dimapur of Dhansiripar block at Diezephe village on March 13.

Ronchamo, AO & BTT convenor, Dhansiripar block, chaired the programme.

The resource person for the demonstration was Sentinaro Longchar, BTM, Dhansiripar Block. The programme started with the preparation of Detergent powder, Dish wash gel and hand wash gel. She demonstrated the step-by-step

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Oasis Centre, Dimapur from March 13 to 15.

The resource persons were Tiayanger Longkümer Pastor, Yabang Molir, Imkong Imchen, Anungla CED, Chuba Imchen ABY with others in the worship and media Team and the Mission Board who worked towards the success of the programme.

Asenba Imsong, NBCA Field Director has stated in a press release that was the first of its kind programme ever held for the youths of Nokte Baptist Church Association. Meanwhile, he acknowledged Ao Baptist Arogo (Church) Padumpukhuri Mission for sponsoring the whole event.

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ADC Mkg takes additional charge Mokokchung, March 16 (DIPr): In modification of previous orders ADC Mokokchung, Bendanglila has given the charge of Administrator, Mokokchung Town Municipal Council with immediate effect in addition to her normal duties under the establishment.

ANSTA Central presidential meet on March 20 kohIMa, March 16 (MExn): All Nagaland School has teachers association (ANSTA) Central has convened a presidential meeting on March 20, 10:00 am at CANSSEA conference hall Sepfezou to deliberate on certain issues pertaining to the state teacher’s rights and benefits and to choke out the programmes for the forth-coming General Conference. Therefore, all the ANSTA Central Executive members, Presidents and General Secretaries of its Federating Units/SubUnits, Presidents and Secretaries of Senior Graduate Teachers, Primary Graduate Teachers, Under Graduate Teachers, Adhoc Teachers, Drawing teachers, Carpentry/ Knitting Instructor are informed to attend the proposed meeting positively. Further, all stake holders of teaching community are requested to come well prepared with agendas pertaining to state teachers rights and benefits to be discuss and taken up by ANSTA Central for further representation to the department.

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DATS penalise 83 defaulters In this image, Chief Minister TR Zeliang presents a souvenir to Maj. Gen M.M Narvane the outgoing SM, inspector general Assam Rifles IGAR (north) at cm's residential office on March 16.

The Daklane Youth Social Organisation (DYSO) organised a mass social work on March 14.

The social work was participated by youth and well-wishers of the colony with the objective to keep Daklane clean and to create awareness on sanitation among the people. The DYSO would like to request the residents of the colony to keep their surroundings clean. DYSO General Secretary Rokonuo Kire in a press release acknowledged Kohima Municipal Council (KMC) for donating 50 brooms and providing two trucks to dispose the wastes on March 1 and Daklane mothers, panchayat and elders for extending support.

DIMaPur, March 16 (MExn): The District Anti Tobacco Squad (DATS) carried out inspection of schools, hotel, restaurant and shops in different part of Dimapur town railway station, Purana Bazar and Chumukedima area on March 14 and 83 defaulters were penalised and a fine of Rs 1569 were collected.

Tsenpamo Kikon stated that the DATS will carry out inspection regularly from now and he request the public to extend cooperation. He also stated that some banks in Dimapur are allowing the staff inside exposing the customers to second hand smoke and warned that action will be taken against those banks.

DC Kohima informs BLOs

In this image, Chief Minister TR Zeliang presents a souvenir to Maj. Gen M.M Narvane the outgoing SM, inspector general Assam Rifles IGAR (north) at CM's residential office on March 16.

kohIMa, March 16 (DIPr): Deputy Commissioner & District Election Officer, Kohima, Rovilatuo Mor has requested all Booth Level Officers under Kohima district to initiate formation of Booth Awareness Group in their respective polling booth latest by March 30 for the purpose of National Electoral Rolls Purification Programme, which has been launched in the district on March 3, 2015. The Booth Awareness Group will include Booth Level government functionaries, para workers, representatives of local body, BLA (Booth Level Agents), BLV (Booth Level Volunteers), Head or representative of schools/colleges, NSS/NYK volunteers and representative of local CSO/NGO ensuring that members other than BLA are not aligned to any political party.

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In this image, a large area of rubber plantation is totally destroyed by fire at Ralan area, Wokha district some 30 km away from Dimapur on March 17 afternoon. The fire reportedly ravaged the area and more than 30 thousand standing rubber tree and some horticultural plants. Meanwhile, Mhonjan Lotha President JD (U), Nagaland Unit has been urged to the rubber board to take stock of the loss and assess to compensate the farmer.

OM Books, the world of Christian literature presents ‘Big Book Sale’, which starts from March 16-28 at OM Books, City Tower, Dimapur. The Sale was dedicated and blessed by Rev. N. Tzudir, Senior Pastor, DABA, in the presence of OM Books Manager and his colleagues. Great offers on various Christian Literature, Reference Books, CDs, DVDs, Gift items & many new arrivals are available.

There are also highly discounted books on display. Grab the opportunity before the new financial year starts. The main motivation and objective behind this is to spread the Truth and the Word of God to the God’s people, to bring awareness of Christian Literature among the people.

DIMaPur, March 16 (MExn): The Dimapur Urban Councils Chairmen Federation (DUCCF) has appealed all public - particularly of the Dimapur Urban area- to exercise “highest sense of responsibility” as respectable citizens of Dimapur. In a press note issued through its Information & Publicity Secretary, Simon Kelio, the DUCCF urged all its member Chairmen and Councils of various colonies under the Dimapur Urban area to fully cooperate with the District Administration and Law enforcing agencies. It also extended its “unflinching support” to the District Administration towards maintaining peace and tranquility.

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REgional

The Morung Express

Indain Railways to connect all northeastern state capitals by 2020 Silchar March 16 (iaNS): The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR), which is building rail infrastructure in the region, has targeted to connect all its eight state capitals by 2020, a senior official has said.

"We would connect all the state capitals of the eight northeastern states by railway link within 2020," NFR general manager (construction) Rakesh Kumar Singh told reporters here.

He said: "Mizoram capital Aizawl and Manipur capital Imphal would be connected by railway network by 2018 and 2019 respectively. The capitals of the remaining states would be linked by 2020 and the works are on to achieve the target."

Tripura's capital Agartala already connected by railway networks, even though line between Assam's Silchar-Agartala is meter gauge.

Agartala came up on the country's rail map in 2008. Currently, northeastern states have around 2,700 km railway line comprising meter gauge and broad gauge (BG) lines, officials said.

Singh, who was leading

a 45-member NFR team, arrived in Silchar railway station from Guwahati on Sunday afternoon with the first nine-bogie railway trial inspection train, which left for Guwahati on Monday.

On Friday, the team said it successfully carried out trial run of a diesel engine from Lumding to Silchar on the newly-con-

Northeast Briefs Strike in Manipur hits normal life iMPhal, March 16 (PTi): Normal life was today affected due to the 18-hour 'general strike' which began from midnight last, called by a local committee in protest against a bill introduced by Manipur government in the Assembly. A spokesman of the Joint Committee on Inner Line Permit System (JCILPS) said the bill was not intended to protect the indigenous people of Manipur.

Official sources however, said the bill was intended to protect the indigenous people of the state. But the JCILPS spokesman said it would not protect the indigenous people as there was no mention of how long people who came from outside the state could stay in Manipur.

Arunachal to decentralise procurement iTaNaGar, March 16 (PTi): Arunachal Pradesh Health and Family Welfare Minister Rajesh Tacho said that the state government has decided to decentralise medicine procurement to improve the health care delivery system. While interacting with the officials of the community health centre (CHC) at Dirang in West Kameng district during his maiden visit on Sunday, the minister said that the state government had adopted zero tolerance policy for the health and education department, an official communique informed here today. Lauding the health functionaries led by senior medical officer S K Singh for their dedicated services to the people, he assured all possible solutions to the problems confronting the CHC. The minister inspected every department of the hospital, the communique added.

Two arrested for killing co-worker cheNNai, March 16 (PTi): Two persons, hailing from Mizoram and Manipur, have been arrested in connection with the murder of a co-worker, also from Mizoram, police said today. Tanginpa alias Benjamin, a native of Mizoram and Chinlamtang alias Henry, from Manipur were arrested last evening, police said. The case pertains to the killing of their co-worker identified as Cheva by the duo last week. Attacked by Benjamin with iron rod, he had succumbed to his injuries while another person, Keema, had sustained injuries in the attack by the two accused. A police release here said that all four were employed in a restaurant at Kolathur and were staying there. Cheva and Keema used to provide 'wrong information' about the other two following which Benjamin was fired from his job, the release said, adding, that Benjamin had in an act of retaliation carried out the attack in the wee hours of March 13 with the help of Henry. Cheeva died on spot and the two fled from the scene, it said. Three special teams were formed to nab the culprits, the statement said, adding, they were apprehended last evening.

The accused were produced before a local court and remanded to custody, the statement added.

Father accused of raping daughter GaNGTok, March 16 (PTi): Police have arrested a middle-aged man for allegedly raping his daughter in South Sikkim. A police official at Ravangla Police Station said they arrested the 51-year-old man yesterday for allegedly raping his 21-year old daughter about 14 months back. The girl consequently gave birth to a girl child four months ago, the official said. The matter remained under wraps as the incident occurred at a sparsely populated remote hamlet of Sumsi-Sokpey. The matter came to light only when the complaint of the birth of the child was verbally reported to the police by the concerned panchayats who had visited the village. A case under u/s 376 IPC (relating to rape) has been registered against the accused.

NDFB (S) cadre held GUWahaTi, March 16 (PTi): A hardcore NDFB (Songbijit) militant allegedly involved in the December 23 carnage in Assam was apprehended from Jaldarpara National Park forest in West Bengal, a defence spokesman said here today. The militant, Roshish Basumatary alias Jama, is a 35th batch Myanmar trained cadre of NDFB(S) who took part in the massacre of Adivasis at Bharatpur in Kokrajhar district that claimed over 90 lives, the spokesman said. He was apprehended in a joint operation by Army, NIA, Assam and West Bengal Police from his hideout inside Jaldarpara National Park from Alipurdwar district. Basumatary said during interrogation about the low morale of NDFB(S) cadres due to sustained operations by the security forces and their desire to lay down arms, the spokesman said. The arrest is likely to provide major inputs on NDFB(S) senior and junior level cadres, he said.

ing to Silchar and Silchar to Agartala -- was laid by the then prime minister H.D. Deve Gowda in Silchar in 1996.

In 2004, the then prime minister Manmohan Singh declared the project a national one.

The railways faced severe criticism for the delay in completing the Rs.5,185crore project that is considered to be a lifeline for southern Assam, Tripura, Mizoram and Manipur.

Railways Minister Suresh Prabhu, during his budget speech in the parliament on February 26, said the Indian Railways was committed to provide rail connectivity to all the northeastern states.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Nov 29, 2014 flagged off a train between Meghalaya's Mendipathar and Guwahati, a distance of 131 km, and laid the foundation stone for a 51.38 km-long new broad gauge railway line between Bhairabi and Sairang in Mizoram.

On February 20, Modi flag off the first weekly airconditioned express train service between Delhi and Arunachal Pradesh in Itanagar.

Tuesday

17 March 2015

Dimapur

3

Assam rolls out 'Paradigm shift underway in development process of Arunachal' scheme to promote iTaNaGar, March 16 (PTi): Development has begun in Arunachal Pradesh with a paradigm shift in the development process by Prime Minister Narendra Modi led NDA government, Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju said in Itanagar on Sunday.

He said that the process would be reversed for states to generate resources to speed up development by doing away with the special category state status.

"As per new criteria of tax devolution by the 14th Finance Commission, Arunachal will get four times higher allocation (Rs 7,231 crore)," Rijiju said while talking to media on the sidelines of the 'Arunachal Panorama' (Festival of Unity in Diversity) at Rajiv Gandhi University at Doimukh, near Itanagar.

However, he expressed apprehension about the state having the capacity to absorb such huge funds.

"The funds allocated are surrendered while utilisation certificates remain pending all the times," he said.

In tune with the Look East policy of the NDA Government, all the 8 NE states will witness tremendous growth within next 4 years, he said, adding that border trade will begin at Moreh (Manipur), Pang-

sau Pass and Tawang (in Arunachal).

He said BSNL will provide broadband facilities within a year and all Arunachal villages, irrespective of population will be linked by road by 2019.

Rijiju described the region as uniquely gifted in terms of having excess water, and predicted that Arunachal is poised to be one of the most prosperous states if its potential is realised to its fullest.

As an example, Rijiju cited the banners of students' union elections decorating both sides of the capital's roads. He wondered if it "reflected the states' future with no such trend in the world and advocated actions within the ambit of law".

Calling on the Rajiv Gandhi University to develop a pan-Arunachal identity, Rijiju said that the institution is not only a centre of excellence, but also a symbol of unity that could become the guiding force for state building. The academicians could play a vital rolw, he said.

"Intolerance is the greatest enemy of Arunachal with the locals only identifying themselves on clan lines. If Nagami is the unifying factor for Nagas, Arunachalees have to evolve a pan-Arunachalee identity as their unifying symbol," he reasoned.

double cropping

GUWahaTi, March 16 (PTi): Assam government has launched an ambitious scheme to increase agricultural production by providing facilities and assistance to farmers for double cropping in their lands. Under the programme 'Momai Tamuli Barbaruah Krishak Bondhu Scheme', facilities and assistance will be provided for double cropping in all the crop areas which have so far been utilised for single cropping only.

Launching the scheme at Timtimia village in Jorhat yesterday, Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi said efforts were initiated through this programme to increase agricultural production of the state.

The Chief Minister also inaugurated a solar energy regulated first ever irrigation scheme under the 'Momai Tamuli Barbaruah Krishak Bondhu Scheme' at the same village and participated in a community seed sowing programme. At an another event in Titabor, he distributed cotton thread to 2,000 weavers under Chief Minister's 'Jeevan Jyoti Swaniojan Scheme'. He also inaugurated a training programme on computer education and skill development. Later, he inaugurated Thengal Kachari Autonomous Sports Complex at Titabor and kicked off a women football match on the occasion.

verted broad gauge (BG) line. The regular train service on the new BG line would be conducted from April after the clearance of Railway Safety Commissioner.

The total length of Lumding-Silchar BG line is 220 km and it consists of 17 tunnels (with longest one being 3.235 km long), 79

major bridges, 340 minor bridges, 28 railway stations and four halt stations.

The NFR general manager (construction) said now the Silchar-Agartala railway track would be converted from meter gauge to BG by March next year.

The foundation of the much-delayed gauge conversion project -- Lumd-

Transport Ministry releases Rs 55 cr for road projects

Ban on mining resulted in revenue loss: Sangma

iTaNaGar, March 16 (PTi): The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has released an amount of Rs 55 crore to Arunachal Pradesh under Central Road Fund (CRF) for undertaking various road projects in the state.

The fund has been released following constant persuasion of the state government, state PWD Minister Gojen Gadi said in a statement on Monday.

He said that Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju, who is the nodal minister of MoRTH of NE states, is convening a high-level meeting today in New Delhi to finalise the sanction of eight unawarded road projects to Arunachal as well as early release of Rs 54.02 cr for the ongoing 11 projects in the state during the current financial year.

ShilloNG, March 16 (PTi): Admitting that the National Green Tribunal ban on mining and transportation of coal has hit Meghalaya's exchequer hard, chief minister Mukul Sangma today said the ban resulted in revenue loss of around Rs 600 crore in the last Financial Year.

To tide the crisis, the state government is developing a framework for safe and scientific mining and has constituted a Task Force Committee to improve the tax realization, the chief minister told the Assembly.

"As per the latest trend of revenue collection of major revenue earning departments, the revenue loss from the GNT ban on coal mining is worked to be around Rs 600 crore," he said while replying to a query posed by UDP legislator Paul Lyngdoh.

While alternative sustainable sources of revenue

A migrant worker from Nepal in one of the rat hole mines located near Lad Rymbai area in Jaintia Hills in Meghalaya. (HT File Photo)

is being worked out for a long term basis, Mukul said the government has implemented a 20 per cent cut on non plan expenditure, revision of VAT for certain items, tax slabs besides tax on luxuries and introduc-

tion of efficient revenue realization mechanism.

Denying reports of leakages of revenue, the chief minister however, said, "We have constituted a Task Force Committee to come up with recom-

mendation required to be adopted by revenue generated departments of the state."

He said the state government would look into the recommendations provided by the committee

to improve tax realization and revenue collection to tide over.

One of the measures taken by the state government is the Mission Mode Project for Computerization of Commercial Taxes with e-services, which are going to be implemented in the state, he said.

"The e-payment adopted by Meghalaya has also received award of payment from the Computerize Society," he said.

The Chief Minister also informed that all integrated check gates will also be covered under the computerization project, which will include installation of CCTVs. He said due to the fourlaning project at Jorabat, there was certain delay in the process but in respect to Dainadubi and other entry and exit points and land identification will be jointly taken up with other departments.

Assam-Agra transmission line to help north India this summer aGarTala, March 16 (iaNS): A 1,800 km transmission line from Assam to Agra is likely to provide some relief to electricity-starved north India this summer, thanks to a power surplus in otherwise economically backward northeast India, a top official said.

"The 1,800-km-long 800 Kv HVDC (high voltage direct current) transmission corridor would be operationalised by May, facilitating the supply of power from northeast India to north India," Power Grid Corporation of India Ltd (PGCIL) chairman-cummanaging director R.N. Nayak told IANS. "The PGCIL erected the vital transmission line from Biswanath Chariali in

Assam to Agra for Rs.11,000 crore," he added.

According to the official, the transmission line would be capable of transmitting 6,000 MW of electricity.

The PGCIL, a "Navaratna" power transmission company, also signed a 10-year agreement with the Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited to provide an underground telecommunication cable link in the northeastern region.

The northeast is going to be power surplus and it was an enormous problem to transmit the excess power from the region to the country's powerstarved regions. The eight northeastern states' offpeak and peak demand on an average is 1,500 MW to

2,500 MW against the current installed capacity of 4,730 MW. The installed capacity, according to electrical engineers and government documents, would increase significantly before the next year-end after the completion of several mega hydro-electric, coal and gas-based power plants.

Several mega hydro power projects are now under commissioning in Arunachal Pradesh, which could be called India's power house if its enormous resources could be tapped.

These include the 110 MW Pare project and the 600 MW Kameng project being commissioned by the North East Electrical Power Corporation (NEEP-

Mizoram misses liquor date aizaWl, March 16 (PTi): Mizoram government is to start sale of liquor in the state from today after a 17-year total prohibition, but only one wine shop could be opened instead of the intended six, because of protests spearheaded by the powerful Presbyterian Church and some NGOs. State Excise ad Narcotics department officials said that one state PSU, the Mizoram Food and Allied Industries Corporation (MIFCO) opened its wine shop at the Millennium Centre where liquor was

sold and purchased.

The MIFCO was given three wine shop licenses in Aizawl but it could not open the other two today.

While a demonstration by local Joint Action Committee of Chaltlang locality obstructed people to buy from the shop, the request made by the local Presbyterian Church in Dawrpui locality to the owner of a building which housed the shop not to allow his building for selling liquor forced the PSU not to open the shop today, the officials said.

PSUs like Mizoram Agriculture Marketing Corporation, Zoram Industrial Development Corporation and also the Ex-Soldiers Multipurpose Cooperative Society also could not open their shops due to protests from the local churches and some NGOs in the localities where they intended to open their shops.

The state government last year enacted a new liquor law replacing the stringent Mizoram Liquor Total Prohibition Act, 1995 in force in the state since February 20, 1997.

CO). While Pare is expected to be commissioned this year, Kameng will be commissioned next year. Work on the third one - the 2,000 MW Lower Subansiri project - is expected to begin soon.

State-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corporation has commissioned its biggest commercial power project of 726 MW at Palatana in southern Tripura, 60 km south of Agartala, while NEEPCO is setting up a 101 MW project at Monarchak in western Tripura, 70 km south of Agartala and only eight km from the India-Bangladesh border.

According to union power ministry documents, the hydro-power potential of the northeastern region is estimated at

about 58,971 MW, which is almost 40 percent of the country's potential. But only about 2.1 percent (1,242 MW) had been harnessed till last May. The region is home to a 151.68 billion cubic metre reserve of natural gas which is capable of generating 7,500 MW of electricity for 10 years. The region also possesses 864.78 million tonnes of coal against the country's reserves of 186 billion tonnes - enabling about 240 MW of power to be generated for 100 years.

"NEEPCO is also planning to generate at least 1,500 MW from non-conventional sources of energy such as solar and wind in the next five years," its chairman and managing

director P.C. Pankaj told IANS. The central government, on Tripura's request, has decided to supply 100 MW of power to Bangladesh. "To take power from Tripura, a new 24-km transmission line would be erected on the Indian side and a 27-km one on the Bangladesh side.

CORRECTION OF NAME Regd.No: 363/2015 Dated: 11/02/15

Shri. Kimaching Sangler resident of H/No-347,Tuliyong Ward, Tuli, do hereby declare that my name was previously called as Kimaching instead of Kimaching Sangler, refers to one and same person.

That my name as Kimaching Sangler, shall be used for all official purposes and correspondences.

Office of the Phenshünyu Lowjvü Union Oking: Phenshünyu Village, P. O. Tseminyu-797 109, Kohima District, Nagaland.

NOTIFICATION 1. NO.PLU/Gen-3/2005: dated Phenshünyu, the 11th March 2015. The people of Phenshünyu, Khenyu, Rümesinyu and Phentejon had its General Meeting on 28th February 2015 at Rümesinyu Village and resolved that henceforth, the nomenclature of PKR denoting Phenshünyu, Khenyu & Rümesinyu shall be replaced with “Phenshünyu Lowjvü.”

2. This particular group of villages falls within the administrative jurisdiction of the Additional Deputy Commissioner, Tseminyu Sub-Division, Tseminyu of Rengma area under Kohima District, Nagaland.

3. Therefore, it is to state that hereafter, the official nomenclature “Phenshünyu Lowjvü” as approved and adopted by the citizens shall strictly be used in all matters related to this group of villages.

4. This Notification stands as final and binding and shall in no case be challenged in any Court of Law. Sd/(Er. Gwanyelo Kemp) President, Phenshünyu Lowjvü Union.

Sd/(Sinhilo Thong) General Secretary, Phenshünyu Lowjvü Union.

4

businEss

Tuesday

Dimapur

17 March 2015

The Morung Express

Global recovery fragile, India a bright spot: Lagarde

New Delhi, March 16 (reuters): The global recovery is “too slow, too brittle and too lopsided”, the head of the International Monetary Fund said in India on Monday, describing Asia’s third-largest economy as a rare bright spot on a cloudy global horizon. In a speech in New Delhi, IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde said that monetary policy in the world’s leading economies was out of step and, even if well managed, could cause “excessive volatility” in international financial markets.

“Looking ahead, something better may yet come on the back of low oil prices and interest rates,” Lagarde said in a speech to women students. “Still, there are significant risks to this fragile global recovery.”

The first of those was what Lagarde called “asynchronous monetary policy” in advanced economies, with the United States and Britain normalising their stances while the euro area and Japan increase their monetary stimulus.

Her warning came on the

IMF supports tight stance of India’s central bank New Delhi, March 16 (iaNs): The International Monetary Fund (IMF), ahead of its chief Christine Lagarde’s two-day India visit that began on Monday, has supported the tight monetary stance of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and says 5-percent inflation in the country was still high.

“India’s monetary stance has been tight in recent period. We’ve seen big reduction in inflation in recent years. It’s come down from about 11 percent in the late 2013 to around 5 percent which is a big reduction,” said IMF Assistant Director Paul Cashin. “Nonetheless, 5 percent inflation is still high. Expectations are still high. So we recommend that they keep a tight stance,” said Cashin, who oversees the Asia and Pacific Department of the IMF said.

The IMF prescription: Real interest rates be kept positive and the government does it bit as well for eve of a meeting of the U.S. Federal Reserve that is expected to signal an increase in ultra-low interest rates as soon as June. Higher U.S. interest rates could trigger capital outflows from emerging markets awash

such support by lowering food price inflation, releasing food stocks and lowering the support prices for farm produce. “So all of that is contributing, as well as low oil prices, which is a big bonus for a country like India in keeping inflation low. We are sure that if the stance is kept tight, inflation will be even lower, going forward.”

As per the IMF, Lagarde’s itinerary during her two-day visit included meetings Prime Minister Narendra Modi and key leaders including Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan. In addition, she is scheduled to deliver a speech at Lady Sri Ram College in the capital besides attend a public event hosted by the central bank in Mumbai Tuesday. She then travels to China on a five-day visit.

According to Cashin, the outlook for India was a lot brighter today than it was in recent years, with an

with cheap dollars.

More than six years after the global financial crisis, the world will grow by a subpar 3.5 percent this year and 3.7 percent in 2016, Lagarde said, reiterating recent IMF forecasts. The euro area and

uptake in growth, and that it was better placed today to handle another shakeout globally.

“W’re expecting India to grow at somewhere in the order of 6 percent this fiscal year -- which is among the highest growth rates that we’ll see among all emerging economies,” he said. “But that’s no say India is completely out of the woods. It does have a number of issues to face, primarily on the supp,y side of the economy, due to lack of infrastructure, lack of power generation, lack of roads and ports.”

While India also faces a number of external risks, if there is a recurrence of a global financial volatility, even though it will also affect India, it was better placed to handle such an eventuality. “It (India) has a much smaller current account deficit these days. A much larger (foreign exchange) reserves. So they should be be better able to withstand those shocks.”

Japan were at risk of remainingstuckwithlowgrowthand low inflation, she said making it difficult to reduce unemployment and debts, and raising the risk of recession and deflationary pressures.

Emerging markets,

meanwhile, could face a “triple hit” of a stronger U.S. dollar, higher global interest rates and more volatile capital flows, Lagarde said.

Bright Spot India’s economy is do-

ing better than its peers, with recent policy reforms and improved business confidence set to boost growth to 7.5 percent in the fiscal year that starts on April 1, Lagarde said.

She welcomed the government’s latest budget as “a step in the right direction” towards mid-term fiscal consolidation while praising plans for higher infrastructure spending. A pact between the government and the Reserve Bank of India to formalise inflation targeting “should provide a robust institutional foundation for maintaining price stability”, said Lagarde.

But to anchor longterm growth and employ a workforce that will become the world’s largest by 2030, India needs to open up its labour market to women, boost financial inclusion and invest even more in infrastructure, she said.

Lagarde, the first woman to head the Fund, cited a new IMF working paper which found that only 33 percent of women in India worked - below the global average of 50 percent and

a comparable level in East Asia of 63 percent. Not only is female participation in the labour force low, but it has been declining since 2005. Lagarde called this a “huge missed opportunity” and called for urgent remedies to make it easier for women to get regular jobs.

“In addition bold reforms we need resilient implementation,” Lagarde said in a podium discussion after her speech.

India better prepared for external financial shocks India is better positioned to cope with external financial shocks than most emerging market economies, International Monetary Fund head Christine Lagarde was quoted saying on Monday, just ahead of a of a crunch meeting of the U.S. Federal Reserve.

The Fed, at its meeting ending Wednesday, is expected to signal an increase in its ultra-low interest rates by as soon as June, potentially triggering capital outflows from emerging markets that have been

flooded with cheap dollars.

In Sept. 2013, Ben Bernanke, then chairman of the U.S. Federal Reserve, caused a heavy selloff in the Indian rupee, bonds and stocks when he announced the Fed was to scale back its $80 billion a month quantitative easing programme.

Now, Lagarde said in an interview with the Times of India before a two-day visit, India is in better shape.

“India has prepared better than most emerging-market economies for any such external shocks,” Lagarde said, adding that India had shrunk its current account deficit and boosted its stock of international reserves.

Lagarde was due to give a speech in New Delhi on Monday and will meet officials from the Reserve Bank of India in Mumbai on Tuesday. Last week, the IMF said in an annual report that India’s economy is recovering.

But growth, which it forecast at 7.5 percent in the fiscal year starting April 1, would fall just below government expectations.

Lower fuel prices bring down Blackberry launches Apple Watch expected on sale in India in June Delhi, March 16 India does not feature in the list as being over Rs 30,000. It is a bit India’s wholesale inflation further new secure tablet New (aNi): The Apple watch is ex- of first countries that will have on the costlier side but brand New Delhi, March 16 (iaNs): India’s annual rate of inflation, based on wholesale prices, declined further to (-)2.06 percent for February from (-)0.39 percent for the month before thanks to a 14.72 percent drop in the index for petroleum fuels and power, official data showed Monday.

Among the other two major indices, the index for primary articles rose marginally 1.43 percent and that for manufactured products was up 0.33 percent, as per data on the official wholesale price index (WPI) released by the Commerce and Industry Ministry.

The country’s retail inflation, based on the consumer price index, also showed a decline of 5.37 percent in February against 7.88 percent in the like month of last year.

But on month-on-month basis, the retail inflation was higher over the figure of 5.19 percent for January 2015.

The prices of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) fell by 8.86 percent, petrol became cheaper by 21.35 percent and diesel prices came down by 16.62 percent. The food inflation

in the month under review grew by 7.74 percent from a rise of 8.00 percent recorded in January 2015.

Prices of major food articles like wheat, rice, cereals, vegetables, potatoes, fruit and milk fell in the month under review.

According to the data, wheat prices decelerated by 2.40 percent from a negative growth of 1.63 percent in January 2015. Rice prices grew by 3.80 percent from 4.00 percent in January 2015.

Cereals were costlier by 1.39 percent in February 2015 from 1.65 percent in January 2015. Vegetables were dearer by 15.54 percent from a growth of 19.74 percent in January this year.

Prices of potatoes contracted by 3.56 percent from a rise of 2.11 percent on a month-on-month basis.

Milk prices accelerated by 7.3 percent from a rise of 9.3 percent in January 2015.

However, onions prices rocketed by 26.58 percent in February from a decline of 1.90 percent month-onmonth basis. Egg, fish and meat inflation grew by 1.27 percent from a fall of 1.51 percent in January 2015.

New Delhi, March 16 (reuters): Seeking to extend its range of secure mobile devices, BlackBerry Ltd said on Saturday it was launching a high-security tablet, developed with International Business Machines Corp and Samsung Electronics Co Ltd. The SecuTABLET, based on Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S 10.5 and being presented by BlackBerry unit Secusmart at tech fair CeBIT 2015 in Germany, reflects the Canadian company’s stress on secure connections for governments and businesses as it seeks to preserve a niche market after a drubbing in recent years at the hands of emerging smartphone makers such as Apple Inc. “Security is ingrained in every part of BlackBerry’s portfolio, which includes voice and data encryption solutions,” said Dr. Hans-Christoph Quelle, chief executive officer of Secusmart GmbH, in a statement on the new device.

The device was undergoing certification by the German Federal Office for Information Security for secure rating, the statement said, adding that the new tablet used the same security technology as the Secusmart Security Card.

“Working alongside IBM and Samsung, we have added the last link in the chain of the Federal Security Network. Subject to certification of the SecuTABLET, German government agencies will have a new way to access BlackBerry’s most secure and complete communications network in the world,” Quelle said.

_

LEISURE

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

SUDOKU Game Number # 3167

pected to be released in India in June. The Apple Watch goes on pre-order on April 10 for first few countries, and in the usual Apple style the actual ‘on sale’ date lands two weeks later on April 24.

This is the standard delay Apple puts into its mobile devices. But

Apple Watch.

According to gizmodo.com, the prospective sale of the Apple Watch in India might be a result of the country’s emergence as an important market for many brands. Analysts also put the cost of the base model of Apple Watch

loyalists in India will not mind paying that premium to get their hands on the device. The Apple Watch incorporates fitness tracking and health-oriented capabilities as well as integration with iOS and other Apple products and services.

NABARD launches digitisation scheme for women’s groups New Delhi, March 16 (iaNs): In an experiment to empower women through information technology (IT) and promote financial inclusion, the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) on Sunday launched a pilot project for complete digitisation of women’s self-help groups (SHGs) for efficient and hassle-free delivery of banking services.

Inaugurating the programme at Ramgarh in Jharkhand, union Minister of State for Finance Jayant Sinha said it would lead to a higher coverage of women under the Prime Minister Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) for financial inclusion. “The project will benefit various stakeholders. It will facilitate mainstreaming of SHG members with Aadhar-based financial inclusion and Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana enabling access to wide range of financial services,” he said. “Digitisation will bring transparency, credibility to operations of SHGs through inbuilt grading MIS

DAILY CROSS WORD

CROSSWORD # 3177

Answer Number # 3166

(management information systems) and thereby increasing the comfort of bankers in credit appraisal, disbursement and monitoring,” he added. Sinha also asked Nabard to also launch a pilot project on credit intensification in select backward districts.

On capital formation in agriculture and rural areas he said NABARD will make best use of Long Term Rural Credit Fund of Rs.15,000 crore provided in the union budget for 2015-16. NABARD chairman Harsh Kumar Bhanwala said the data of SHGs and their members will be fed into the input device like tablet or mobile handset, which will be uploaded in the dedicated website with the address www.eshakti.nabard.org.

On Friday, NABARD conducted a ‘Round Table Consultation and Policy dialogue on Financing Innovations’ with top executives of the banking and financial sector at Rashtrapati Bhavan, as a part of a week-long Festival of Innovations (FOIN) organised here by National Innovation Foundation.

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ACROSS

1. Spheres 5. At the peak of 9. Steals 13. South American country 14. Trainee 16. Decorative case 17. End ___ 18. Wear away 19. Speech disorder 20. Barren 22. Conducts business 24. Rip 26. Slumber 27. Asthmatic’s device 30. Stoppage 33. Irish girls 35. Slowly, in music 37. In song, the loneliest number 38. Braised meat stew 41. Bird call 42. Homes for birds 45. Drink 48. Sleeping sickness carrier 51. Demagnetize 52. Layers 54. Nothing (British) 55. Villainous 59. Startles

62. Not closed 63. Mug 65. Hawkeye State 66. Boyfriend 67. Gnatlike insect 68. Affaire d’honneur 69. Collections 70. 1/100th of a dollar 71. Being

DOWN

1. Creative work 2. A musical pause 3. Gasping 4. Dreamlike 5. Card with one symbol 6. Sourish 7. Smells 8. Foot levers 9. Get worse 10. Ear-related 11. Broke 12. Tastes 15. Basic belief 21. Cabbagelike vegetable 23. Secure against leakage 25. Marsh plant 27. Computer symbol 28. A nine-piece musical group 29. Ribonucleic acid 31. Reckless

32. Bucks 34. A type of large sandwich 36. Is endebted to 39. What we sleep on 40. Not odd 43. Lockjaw 44. Blend 46. Prima donna problems 47. Untanned hide 49. Earthquake 50. Arousing 53. Soft leather 55. Anagram of “Snob” 56. Type of sword 57. Accomplishment 58. Anagram of “Sing” 60. Female sheep (plural) 61. A period of discounted prices 64. Mesh Ans to CrossWord 3176

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

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

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

MOKOKCHUNG: 0369 2226225/ 101 (O) 9436012949 (OC) PHEK: 8414853765 (O) 9862130954(OC) ZUNHEBOTO: 03867 280304/ 101 (O) 9856156876 (OC)

MON: 03869 251222/ 101 (O) 9436208480 (OC) KipHire: 8414853767 (O) 8974304572 (OC)

Toll free No. 1098 childline

Police Station 1:

DIMAPUR: 03862 232201/ 101 (O) 9436017479 (OC)

TUENSANG: 8414853766 (O) 8414853519

CHILD WELFARE COMMITTEE

MOKOKCHUNG:

KOHIMA: 0370 2222952/ 101 (O) 9402003086 (OC)

WOKHA: 03860 242215/101 (O) 9862039399 (OC)

chumukedima fire 282777 brigade nikos hospital and 232032, 231031 Research centre

KOHIMA

FIRE STATIONS

STD CODE: 0369

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 EXCHANGE CURRENCY NOTES

222246 222491

BUY(Rs)

SELL(Rs)

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

61.50 90.67 7.66 46.96 44.10 47.96 50.34

64.28 95.07 8.54 49.26 46.26 50.32 53.59

Euro

64.62

67.75

Thai Baht Korean Won New Zealand Dollar Chinese Yuan

1.81

2.02

0.0524

0.0584

45.20

47.43

9.48

10.56

LOCAL

The Morung Express

Tuesday 17 March 2015

Confidence of Noke-led NPF will be short lived: NPF (S) Dimapur, march 16 (mExN): Reacting to NPF (Noke) group expressing confidence of getting the ‘cock’ symbol, the Shürhozelie-led NPF today stated that spokesperson of NPF (Noke) Imkong L Imchen is making a “desperate attempt to hoodwink the people,” especially the “doomed Niathu Resort campers/ detainees,” but “it is wishful thinking which will be known within this month or early part of next month.”

The Media Cell of NPF (S) Central Office, Kohima in a release stated that the Election Commission of India (ECI) will follow certain criteria to make decision such as: Which group enjoys the majority support in the organisational level of the party, Which group commands majority of the members of legislators of the party legitimately, and Whether strict compliance of the party constitutional provisions have been observed in convening meetings/ general conventions and other actions.

In this context, the release said, the facts of the events will prove that Noke group is clearly on the wrong side. It recounted that the legitimacy of Dr. Shurhozelie as president of the NPF original was elected on 26.11.14 at the party General Convention where 5221 active party men from Nagaland, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh were present and had elected unanimously.

It maintained that Noke Wangnao was elected as president on January 12, 2015 by an “unconstitutional/ unauthorised” meeting of the 430 “dissident” NPF group. “It was not a proper legitimate General convention nor was it well attended by the party representatives,” it stated.

Stating that the numerical superiority of the General Convention on 26.11.14 was incomparable (5221) to the attendance of 12.1.15 (430), the NPF (S) said the majority claim of the central executive mem-

MEx FILE PLCC urges not to bail out car thief Kohima, march 16 (mExN): The office of the Panchayat Lower Chandmari Colony (PLCC), Kohima has informed that there have been a lot of vehicle theft cases in Kohima town, particularly in and around Chandmari colony, where at least eight vehicles have been stolen in a short span of time. In a press release, PLCC chairman, Nohokhol Sophie and secretary, Bentilo Rengma informed that the latest incident happened on the night of March 14, where a Tata Sumo bearing registration number NL-01-T-8361 was stolen. However, the vehicle was recovered by police on March 15 morning and one person identified as S Timothy was arrested in this regard.

The Panchayat has urged the authorities not to bail out Timothy until every information about vehicle theft is obtained from him. It also warned that any person trying to bail out the person will be doing so at their own risk.

PTCSU mourns Kohima, march 16 (mExN): The Phek Town Chakhesang Students’ Union (PTCSU) has expressed grief and sorrow over the incident where 13 persons were killed in bus accident between Phek village and Lanye on March 13 while returning to Jessami after attending marriage party at Phek Town. The Union expressed sympathy and solidarity towards the 19 injured persons and wished them speedy recovery. The Union also prayed to God to grant solace to all bereaved families.

Submission of BJP membership booklets Dimapur, march 16 (mExN): All the district BJP presidents and district BJP membership convenors have been directed to submit the completed primary membership booklets to the State BJP Membership Convenor before March 20, 2015. The office bearers may contact the same in this regard at the earliest possible as the last date of membership drive is scheduled for March 31, 2015, informed a press release issued by Jaangsillung Gonmei, State Secretary (Media) and Convenor of Social Media, BJP Nagaland. Every party office bearer has been requested to aid the district BJP offices to speed up the membership enrollment before the last date.

ber (CEC) recommending emergency meeting to the President Dr. Shurhozelie on 10.1.15 by Nyamnyie Konyak (dissident) purported to have been signed by 1/3 members of the CEC members of those (2011-14) term as required by party constitution Art IV (C) (i) (ii) (iii) was found bogus. Only 21 were CEC members of the 217 members in total, it alleged.

Prima facie, the release added that NPF (Noke) group “seems” to have the support of 20 NPF legislators out of 38. “But in reality, the Noke’s group has only 11 members because Dr. Shurhozelie has suspended 9 (nine) members by 10.1.15 (7 members on 5.1.15 and another 2 members on 10.1.15) while he was still accepted as the "undisputed" party president even by the "dissident" group as admitted by their letter written to Election Commission of India,” it said. “In fact, technically, Noke’s group

has no NPF legislators on his side which was proved by the proceedings on the floor test of the Assembly on 5.2.15 in which, on the basis of party president, Dr. Shurhozelie’s direction, the party chief whip Keyanilie had issued whip to all the party legislators.”

Further, the party clarified that Dr Abhishek Singvi, advocate of the NPF (S) did not plead for extension of time, but it was Rao, advocate of the “dissident” group, who wanted to avail some more time after the expiry of the time allotted to them. The ECI did not allow the request, but directed them to submit brief of their arguments highlighting their points before March 20, 2015, the release said.

Stating that the confidence expressed by the spokesperson of Noke’s camp will be short-lived and elusive at the end, the NPF (S) appealed to the campers at Niathu Resort to think and take right decisions before they take a leap.

Dimapur

5

LOOK OUT NOTICE

Based on concrete and credible evidences which is in the possession of Dimapur Police, the individuals featured in the photographs have been identified as being directly involved in the March 5, 2015 incident at Dimapur. More sets of photographs will be published in subsequent days on the basis of available evidence against each person.

The following course of action is advised to the concerned stakeholders mentioned below.

1) The individuals featured in these photographs are advised to present themselves at their respective police stations under whose ju-

Corrigendum Apropos the news item ‘AMTTM celebrates Golden Jubilee’, it is corrected that Ao Mopungchuket Temolungtsur Telungjem Mokokchung should be read as Ao Temolungtsur Telongjem Mokokchung Town. The error is regretted.

risdiction their localities fall under.

2) If the individuals do not voluntarily turn themselves in, the parents or wards of these individuals are to produce them in the respective police stations.

3) If the above two courses of action are not fulfilled, the student unions/ GBs/ Colony Chairmen under whose jurisdiction these persons live, or under which student body these students are affiliated to, are to produce them in the police stations.

In case the above course of action is not acted upon, Dimapur Police will continue to look out for

the featured individuals and detain them as per the law as and when they are tracked down. In case of such an eventuality, the stakeholders mentioned above should not intervene and make any representations/petitions to the Police on behalf of the featured individuals. Failure to surrender may lead to the attachment of the dependent parents’ property and may also call for the declaration of reward against the featured persons and subsequently placing them under the “WANTED” list under the relevant provisions of law.

Addl. Superintendent of Police/PRO

Director of school informs

In a press release, the submission of the proposal Kohima, march 16 (mExN): Director of school director said that the estab- by the department to the education Zaveyi Nyekha lishments have been asked Government of India, for has asked the following to submit the Undertaking salaries of the CSS (Hindi) DDOs to submit the Arrear for Acceptance of RoP by teachers for the year 2015Bills and the Service Books the incumbents along with 16, has been inordinately of the CSS (Hindi) teach- Arrears statements, IPSs, delayed since the proposal ers for release of Pay & Al- and Non-Drawal Certifi- is to be accompanied by lowances as per the provi- cate along with the Service the Audit Statement and sions of the 6th RoP (2010): Books latest by March 19, the Utilization Certificate, DEO Longleng, SDEO failing which, the depart- which cannot be produced Phek, GHSS Tizit, GHSS ment will not be held re- unless all pending payTuensang, GHSS Noklak, sponsible for non-payment ments are cleared.

In view of the above, GHS Chunlikha, GHS of the teachers’ salary as Longchem, GHS Merang- all payments are to be re- the defaulting establishrupt by voters. “If a leader is kong, GHS Chessore, GHS leased within the Current ments have been directed elected by fair and free vot- Chare, GHSS Shamator, and Financial Year. to complete the task within ing; perhaps he/she may not GHS Wakching.

It also noted that the the given deadline. be that corrupt,” it stated.

Regarding the fight for sovereignty, the Hoho questioned, “Are we truly fighting for sovereignty, which all sensible Nagas support? Or are we fighting for selfish motives? What about employing illegal Bangladeshis as tax collectors, by some NPGs?” “Let our leaders, both over ground and others, retrospect, introspect one’s thoughts and begin to cultivate thoughts of statesmanship. Unless we address the problems of the society A fire ravaged 30 thousand standing rubber trees and some horticultural plants at and particularly those of Ralan area in Wokha district on March 16. According to a press release from JD (U) the youth, at the right time, Nagaland unit president, Mhonjan Lotha, the fire broke out from nearby field supposNagas being humans, can edly lighted up by some miscreant. The JD (U) president has urged the rubber board also be provoked to a stage, to assess the loss and compensate the poor farmers. when French and Russian Revolution-like Uprising can break out; and in such an event our leaders, at the helms, will surely be respon- Dimapur, march 16 Further, it stated that sible and perhaps made to (mExN): The Chakhesang the government action of pay the price too,” the Lotha Youth Front (CYF) has stat- suspending officials is seHoho added. ed it was appalled at the lective and devoid of logic. Kohima, march 16 turn of events on March 5 “While the government is (mExN): Home Minisin Dimapur. “The incident aware of the impending ter Y Patton has expressed has brought not only disre- danger prior to 5th March sadness over the death of pute to the entire Nagas in 2015, its failure to ensure Nrichen Kikon (80) of Koio and caused much incon- front of the world but has effective implementation village in Wokha district on venience to all the passen- put the Nagas vulnerable of law and order lies not March 13. He is survived by to attacks and discrimina- only with the district ad- his wife, 11 children and gers,” the release said.

Stating that such inde- tion elsewhere,” stated CYF ministration but the onus host of grandchildren.

In a condolence mescent act is uncalled for, the president Zhopayi Nakro lies with the government.”

Hoho condemned the “un- and finance secretary, Ve- Hence, it opined, “own- sage addressed to the wife of reasonable attitude” of the khriyi Chuzho in a press ing responsibility should the deceased, Patton stated start from the highest lev- that Late Nrichen Kikon was assaulter and appealed to release.

Condemning the “bar- el rather being selective one of the elders of Chukithe authorities concerned to pursue the matter at the baric and savage act” car- and making some officials tong range and highly reearliest so such harassment ried out by the mob, the scapegoat.” In this light, spected. “I was privileged of innocent passengers with- CYF urged upon the law en- CYF urged the government of associating with late out any rhyme or reason and forcing agencies to award for “immediate fixing of re- Nrichen Kikon and found unnecessary complications befitting punishment to the sponsibility” at every level him very knowledgeable, rather than being selective. sincere and committed and persons responsible. could be avoided in future. was always ready to provide valuable guidance and advice to me.” He was a public leader of Chukitong range and was associated with Kohima, march ing the programme by the Mairising from Texas, USA various political parties for 16 (Dipr): A three-day Dimapur Auxiliary Senior were the main speakers in many years in 37th Tiyi A/C. 2nd edition of Bible re- Secretary, Bible Society of the function.

He was also the chairman of In the inaugural func- Land Settlement Board of lease cum gospel music India, Rev. Dr. Rochill. The festival programme was first edition of Liangmai tion, former Executive Sec- Chukitong Range. held at Rianglong Bap- Holy Bible was released in retary of LNBA (M), Rev. Dr. Patton stated that tist Church in Nagaland February 2001 at Tamei, H Newmai inaugurated the Nrichen’s sudden demise hall. Meanwhile, president Border near Barak River Manipur. is a great loss to the Lotha The programme was of Liangmai Baptist Associfrom February 24 to 26.

The Liangmai Holy Bible jointly organised by the ation Nagaland and pastor, community in general and (2nd edition), which was Liangmai Christian Litera- Kohima Liangmai Baptist people of Chukitong range reprinted by the Liangmai ture Society (LCLS) (M&N) Church N. Silubo invoked in particular.

Further, Patton and his Baptist Association Mani- under the theme “Praise God’s blessing.

Around 3000 delegates wife conveyed heartfelt pur and Nagaland Liang- His Glory”. The principal mai Christian Literature of ITS Tamenglong GN participated in the three- condolences to the wife society, was released dur- Kumuiteung and Dr. ID day programme. and family of the deceased.

Lotha Hoho, Wokha on March 5 incident and other issues WoKha, march 16 (mExN): The Lotha Hoho, Wokha, has condemned the alleged rape of a college girl in Dimapur and subsequent “heinous lynching” of the accused, Syed Farid Khan, on March 5.

A release issued by Lotha Hoho chairman, Mhao Humtsoe and general secretary, Mhondamo Ovung queried, “What have we benefitted by killing Syed Farid Khan?...All that we have earned are loss of one life, worldwide resentment, downgrading our reputation and above all; sinning against humanity and the creator, God.” “Nagas have just begun to be viewed as courteous, hospitable and friendly, which now is reversed as still barbaric.”

Meanwhile, it maintained that the street action of the unruly mob is condemnable in the strongest terms, “but it is truly the culmination of the long suffering and frustration, due to many factors, such as cor-

ruption resulting in favouritism, lack of rule of law, unemployment, political uncertainty, illegal taxation, etc, which threaten the future of our youth and hence their ultimate outcry.”

The Lotha Hoho further lauding the setting up of an Inquiry Commission stated “(it) Could have been more satisfying if the Commission is a ‘Multiple men Commission’ because anyone is a human being and a one man seems inadequate.”

On politics and governance, the Hoho commented that it is “definitely high time the Naga leaders abandon the craze for power; and instead adopt statesmanship.” Quoting “A statesman thinks for the welfare of the people, but a politician thinks for his political survival,” it questioned whether “our” leaders are statesmen or politicians.

It further asked if “we” are true Christians and follow what “we” preach, if “our” leaders are made cor-

CYF condemns Dmp lynching Y Patton

condoles

Sumi Hoho condemns assault on driver

Dimapur, march 16 (mExN): The Sumi Hoho has informed that a driver of its vehicle was assaulted by one person at Viswema village on March 14. Recounting the incident, Sumi Hoho general secretary Vihuto Asumi in a release informed Harmonic voices to be launched that a team of Sumi MigraKohima, mar 16 (mExN): A choir group called tion Research CommitHarmonic Voices, Nagaland will be launched on March tee under the aegis of Sumi 22, 4:30 pm at The Heritage, Old DC Bungalow, Officers’ Hoho was on an official tour to Makhel in Manipur and Hill, Kohima. other places of importance

when a Maruti 800 bearing registration number NL 01 2644 stopped the last vehicle of the convoy and the driver, a local man, began to physically assault the driver of the Sumi Hoho vehicle “for reasons best known to him.”

“Inspite of seeing the official designation plate and traditional attired officials who were seated in the vehicle, the driver without heeding to anybody continued with his indecent behavior

First Cut: Inter-collegiate entrepreneurship competition ends 2nd edition of Liangmai Bible released Dimapur, march 16 (mExN): First Cut, an intercollegiate entrepreneurship competition organized by YouthNet, ended on March 14 with a grand finale held at Tetso College. The programme, which is part of Impact 5000 by 18, an initiative of YouthNet in partnership with the State’s department of youth resources and sports, was launched on February 11 with Geoffrey Yaden, Editor-in-chief, Nagaland Post, as the Chief Mentor,.

According to a press release, the objective of the competition was to give college students a taste of ground realities, opportunities and challenges in business in Nagaland.

During the competition, which was participated by 20 teams from 14 different colleges in Kohima and Dimapur, students representing respective colleges formed groups of five members each, and each team was given Rs.10000 as seed money to execute a busi-

Winning team of First Cut from St. Joseph's College, Jakhama with Geoffrey Yaden, Editor-in-chief, Nagaland Post and YouthNet member.

ness idea of their choice for a few weeks.

The winner of the competition was a team comprising BBA students from St. Joseph's College, Jakhama. The team used their resources and time selling fast food from a temporary stall by the main road in Jail Colony, Kohima, and made Rs. 74,649 as net profit within two weeks of operations, the release said.

There were four other categories of prizes such as the Origin Spa Most Promising Team Award, which went to ICFAI University Dimapur students, who sold T-shirts

with indigenous designs at temporary stalls in different locations in Dimapur. The Puma Best Accounts and Finance Team Award went to an all-girls team from Baptist College, Kohima, who divided their time selling food items on certain days and cow dung on other days.

Since the rules of the competition required the students to do most of the work by themselves, the girls personally collected the cow dung, packaged and sold it, for which they received a lot of praise, the release stated. The Gorilla Marketing Most Innovative Team Award went

to a second team from St. Joseph’s College, Jakhama, for their unique product – snail pickle. The Bambusa Best Operations Team Award went to a 4-member team of engineers from SETAM, Nagaland University, who efficiently managed their time and resources making and selling extension cords by themselves.

A total amount of Rs 2 lakh was given as seed money, and the teams in total sales made an impressive amount of Rs.5,45,331, it informed.

The release stated that all the participating students felt the time spent gave them an eye-opening experience. “Some of the students say they will continue with their businesses even though the competition is over because they can see that it creates a source of income for them,” it added.

The grand finale of First Cut saw performace by renowned local artist Alobo Naga.

BJYM Nagaland reacts to RSS leader’s comment Dimapur, march 16 (mExN): The Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha (BJYM) Nagaland has reacted to the national news report “No minorities in India, all are DNA-wise Hindus: RSS.” A press release from BJYM president Kahuto Chishi and national executive member Pramod Singh stated, “We find it amusing that a senior RSS leader

like Dattareya Hosabale should utter such nonsensical statements, which is devoid of truth both from the rational and scientific viewpoints.”

“The reality is that even if the RSS chief, Mohan Bhagwatji, repeat a thousand times that ‘all those born in India are Hindus,’ yet there are citizens who will remain as Christian

or Muslims and hold on to their faith till their last breath,” the BJP youth wing stated.

The BJYM Nagaland further asserted that it does not subscribe to such parochialism approach either in its political or social approach. “While respecting the secular BJP party’s principles and ideals of governance, we distance

ourselves from such shortsighted remarks, which are bound to do more harm than good to the country in the long run,” it added.

It also iterated that “even as we respect the principles of the BJP in our worldly governance, we who have been born and brought as Christians will never, never desert our faith.”

6

IN-FOCUS

The Power of Truth

The Morung Express TuEsDAy 17 MArcH 2015 voluME X IssuE 73

Guest editorial

By Dr. Asangba Tzüdir

Niti aaYoG

A New Avatar for Transforming India

T

he six-decade old planning commission of India is finally done away with and replaced by Modi’s vision for transforming India – NITI AAYOG (National Institution for Transforming India), a resultant of Modi’s fiery election campaign. Headed by the Prime Minister, NITI AAYOG is created through a government resolution having no constitutional or statutory stature. Somewhat similar to that of the Planning Commission, NITI is structured by a governing council including Chief Ministers of all states and the lieutenant-governors of the union territories; it differs in functions. While Planning Commission was behind plan spending and allocation of funds to central ministries and state governments; NITI AAYOG is supposed to act like an advisory body in the evolution of a nationwide development and source out ideas in order to create a long term junction between Centre and States by giving more autonomy to the states in order to plan and utilise the resources giving a federal outlook. It has come at a time when the general feeling was that the old planning had lived beyond which the purpose is not guaranteed, that even after 12 five-year plans one-fourth of India’s population still lives below Poverty line.

The challenge though is to identify and deliberate on the key areas towards the goal of transforming India. Most importantly, as an advisory body, a lot will depend on the advices it gives to the central and state governments and how it engages the states in the process of formulating policies on matters concerning national and international importance both to the Centre and States.

So, what does the new NITI avatar promise? The resolution adopting NITI came up with 13 broad objectives – nurturing cooperative federalism to developing mechanisms for preparing credible plans at the village level; ensuring that national security concerns are taken in board in development policies; creating a knowledge, innovation and entrepreneurial system; serving as a platform for coordinating inter-departmental issues; and serving as a “repository of research on good governance and best practices in sustainable and equitable development.”

The Prime Minister Modi, at The Economic Times Global Business Summit spilled out his development agenda in all certainty: “The government must nurture an ecosystem where the economy is primed for growth; and growth promotes allround development. Where development is employmentgenerating; and employment is enabled by skills. Where skills are synced with production; and production is benchmarked to quality. Where quality meets global standards; and meeting global standards drives prosperity. Most importantly, this prosperity is for the welfare of all.” However, this borrowed model needs to be located within praxis in the context of Indian realities. As for now, ideas seem to abound in the form of “Make in India,” “Swachh Bharat,” Digital India, FDI in railways, Defence and Insurance, Self-certification etc.

What will set the benchmark of NITI lies in how it functions, and the absence of a constitutional and statutory status makes it more conspicuous. As such the function and working mechanism towards the goal of transforming India needs to be clearly mapped out and quickly prove its credibility by evolving as a better form of inclusive planning and policy making body. We can only hope that NITI AAYOG lives true to the purpose for which it was created. Otherwise it will be just another overloaded name for Planning Commission.

As for Nagaland, within the ambit of national agenda framework, though under a supposed federal setup, a lot of forward-inclusive thinking, prioritisation and envisaging is desired before spelling out what is best for the people of Nagaland and whether it will usher in a new dawn of people inclusive bottom-up power model of governance.

lEfT wiNg |

Mazie Nakhro, Ph.D

The Complementary Duo Thought-Provoking Question: Can religion and politics be complementary?

What does God say? Read Zechariah 4:1-14 After defeating Babylon in 539 B.C., King Cyrus allowed the Jews in the diaspora to return to their homeland. Among those who returned were the High Priest Joshua and Zerubbabel, the Governor of the Jewish State under the rule of the Persian Empire.

King Cyrus stood behind these two leaders to rebuild the temple and lay the foundation of the Jewish community. But some Jews, who had been living in the land for generations, hesitated to accept their leadership. Even those who supported their mission were unwilling to persevere in the face of various political threats from the neighboring non-Jewish communities. These enemies joined together and influenced the newly instated leaders in Persia to put a halt to the rebuilding work of the temple, which they regarded as a symbol of revived Jewish nationalism. These combined forces of opposition became like a “mighty mountain” which stood in the way of the Jewish movement.

It was during such a time that God raised the prophet Zechariah to encourage Joshua and Zerubbabel. God “anointed” these two leaders to serve in a complementary manner so as to rebuild the temple (Zech. 8:9) and govern the people well (7:9; 8:16-19). This was how they were to do it: “Not by might nor by power, but by my Spirit,” says the Lord. After all, only the Lord can cause a nation to be truly safe, secure, and great amongst the nations (2:5; 9:8; 12:1-9). Then, Zechariah said that someday the Messiah would come to rule as both King and Priest over His people, thereby emphasizing God’s desire that politics and religion function in perfect harmony (6:12-13).

Okay, so now what?

Whether we like it or not, the State of Nagaland has become a “bridge” between the Nagas and the Indian government. Its structure has taken over our system of decision-making, communication, education, and commerce. As a result, we are now almost completely dependent upon it for our daily survival.

What should we do in this situation? For an answer, let me borrow a political concept from Niccolò Machiavelli: Since one must start from the present state of things, one can only work with the material at hand. This means that our Nagas cannot just ignore the reality of the Nagaland State anymore. Hence, the wisest thing to do is to use our “bridge” in a way that will advance our political case or economic development. So, what about applying the principle of “the complementary duo” to overcome our mountainous obstacle? First, this could mean making the State work for us to lay our economic foundation and strengthen our Naga aspiration. Second, we need the Church to help our society to be more dependent upon God. Prayer: Lord, remind us that our Naga problems can neither be solved by military might nor by our human wisdom. May You help us to depend on Your Spirit alone. Amen.

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

THE EDIT PAGE

C O M M E N T A R Y

Ana Salvá

aids in thailand: advances in medicine but not in society Thai HIV-positive patients have access to medicines without having to pay high medical fees. However, despite such progress, they still face stigma and discrimination

T

hailand’s response to AIDS has been widely applauded as one of the world’s greatest success stories. The HIV-infection rate in the country has fallen from 24,000 patients in 2001 to 8,000 in 2012, and more of them are receiving treatment. Thailand’s case is highly significant, as it is one of the first countries in introducing free antiretroviral treatments. While these medicines are unable to cure the disease, they make a crucial difference for the patients, as they allow them to live a much healthier life, thus enhancing their well-being for a longer period of time.

HIV-positive patients enjoy access to these medicines, without having to pay unaffordable medical fees.

However, and despite this progress, the eradication of the social stigma still associated with the disease is one of the most important challenges they have to face.

People diagnosed with AIDS are still denied the job opportunities they need to return to a normal life. In many cases, they are abandoned by their families and rejected by their immediate environment. On top of that, the disease figures in their medical tests, making difficult for them to take part in the labor market.

According to UNAIDS, there are 440,000 HIV patients in Thailand, from a population of 67 million, and there are many more unregistered carriers of the virus who are afraid of undergoing a test.

A negative perception of the disease and its patients permeates Thai society and makes much more difficult to eradicate it. Many Thais associate it with commercial sex or the use of injected drugs, illegal activities that are as frown upon in this country as in many others. As a result, many carriers of the disease are afraid of discovering in a test that they carry the virus, and therefore enter late into the healthcare system and their treatment is delayed. The consequences might be extremely dire: when a person infected with HIV is taking medication, the risk of becoming AIDS, the name of the disease, is much lessened.

in the lately eighties, a major epidemic engulfed the country. HIV infection among injecting drug users rose from almost nil to 40% in a single year. On top of that, the rising infection levels among sex workers skyrocketed to a 31% at the national level by 1994, spreading subsequently waves of the epidemic in to those sex workers’ male clients, their partners and even their children, as was reported by the World Bank. It was then when the government came to be acutely aware that AIDS was a widespread problem that it could not avoid any longer.

In the early nineties, the Thai Government launched a public information campaign to reduce HIV transmission, and a program to promote universal and consistent condom use in commercial sex. After that, the annual figures of new HIV infections, which had peaked in the early nineties, declined by more than 80 percent.

But those initiatives are long gone and currently most teenagers and young adults may not remember the prevention campaigns that were carried out years ago and may be unaware of the risk entailed by unsafe sexual behaviours. For example, in 2010 it was discovered that, among venue-based sex workers, only 50 percent had undergone a HIV test during the last year, and that the HIV prevention programs only reached 57 percent of them, as was reported during the United Nations General Assembly Special Session in 2012. According to an Government response Successive Thai governments have organised a UNAIDS report released in 2012, only 71 percent of series of campaigns aimed at reducing both the HIV Thais in need of treatment were receiving it. prevalence and social stigma in the country. However, those campaigns did not exist only a few decades New challenges The Thai government is urgently compelled to ago. When AIDS arrived in Thailand in 1984, the policy response was muted. At that time, the prevailing confront head-on several challenges. “Thailand has view was that AIDS was an epidemic brought from a universal health care system fully funded by the abroad, which was merely confined to a few individ- government, but getting newer HIV medicines and uals belonging to high-risk groups like gay men and access to free Hepatitis C drugs is still a problem,” injecting drug users. It was believed that it would not says Shiba Phurallatpam, regional coordinator of the Asia Pacific Network of People Living with HIV/ spread more widely.

This idea had to be dismissed promptly when, AIDS. It is also noteworthy that HIV and AIDS pre-

T

he Middle East is suffering the blowback from rotten U.S. policies, disastrous wars, and cultural turmoil. ISIS and its ilk are one result.

ISIS — or the so-called “Islamic State” — is the latest and most horrifying iteration of the modern terror groups that have plagued the region in recent years. With 20,000 to 30,000 combatants and recruits streaming in from all over the globe, the group is unlikely to be significantly degraded by U.S. air strikes — not when political conditions in the Middle East continue to favor it.

The media often depicts ISIS recruits as lost souls in search of a cause or suffering from mental illness. That may be true in some cases. But these explanations are not sufficient to explain ISIS’s resilience and recruitment capabilities.

No organization, especially a terrorist one, can survive without support.

That can range from passive acceptance to active assistance, and it comes from individuals who may view ISIS as either the lesser of many evils or else a righteous group waging a holy war.

Both views are fueled not only by decades of Western colonialism, but also by recent U.S. invasions, drone strikes, and the installation and support of corrupt and brutal puppet governments. When Washington holds hands with dictators, or strikes oil deals that benefit only the hyper-wealthy, hatreds are remembered and passed down over the generations.

Yes, ISIS has committed unspeakable atrocities. But it’s too easy to forget that the U.S. invasion of Iraq killed some half a million Iraqis by one estimate — most of them civilians — and wounded another million. Looking at the numbers, we can only imagine the thousands of Iraqi children killed by bombs who may have actually been

vention programs have gone into hibernation. Currently, around 80 percent of the national budget to fight against the virus comes from domestic sources and most of it is spent on treatment rather than prevention, according to HIV charity Avert.

Nevertheless, there have been some advances.

Thirty years after the epidemic began, the silence on men who have sex with men was finally broken in 2011 when they were included as one of the key affected populations, along with drug users and sex workers. Although sex between men is not illegal in Thailand since 1956, prostitution is and a condom can be used as a piece of evidence in an accusation.

Stigma and discrimination are still prevailing, and it remains the challenge of changing people’s attitudes.

This is bound to be a long process, all the more challenging when the virus is widely perceived as closely linked with socially disapproved behaviours.

On the other hand, HIV also affects up to five million migrant workers living in Thailand. Although antiretroviral drugs are available irrespective of nationality, the difficulties that they have to face –like language barriers, exploitative conditions and frequent movements back and forth to their countries of origin–, make much more difficult for them to get access to the information about the AIDS and HIV they need. “This in turn can have negative consequences on their well-being and that of their communities, as well as undermine the realisation of global health goals, including HIV prevention, care and support,” says Andy Bruce, Regional Director of the International Organisation for Migration.

During a conference hosted by UNDESCAP on last January, the lead-up to discuss the Post-2015 Development Agenda, there was a call to the governments to insure that all the people, regardless of their social status, gets access to health services and HIV programs, including HIV education, testing, treatment and support services. It is crucial to ensure that nobody is left behind to put an end to an epidemic that has already claimed thousands of lives.

Why IsIs Exists Adil E. Shamoo and Bonnie Bricker Foreign Policy In Focus

In the U.S. war on Iraq, hundreds of thousands died the sort of deaths that, if broadcast in an ISIS video, would have inflamed international opinion burned alive or smashed by rubble.

They died the sort of deaths that inflame Arabs and Muslims around the world. No mother, father, sister, or brother will ever forget.

The invasion also brought torture and sexual abuse of Iraqi prisoners, in blatant violation of international law and the most rudimentary elements of humanity. And the pictures of torture we saw are only a small part of what happened.

The aftermath of the war only fueled the outrage felt by Iraqis and the rest of the Muslim and Arab world. The puppet government installed by Washington made corruption a reality at every level of daily life, and it badly neglected and abused the country’s non-Shiite populations. Daily life continued to be miserable, if not fatal.

As a nation, the United States likes to tout its moral superiority. Yet the bleak contrast between what Iraqis experienced and America’s self-pro-

claimed exceptionalism led many Iraqis to join a group that made its own set of promises — ISIS — and the results have been terrifying.

Meanwhile, America’s allies in the Middle East aren’t much better.

Saudi Arabia beheads over 100 people per year, and its fellow Gulf States defy any semblance of respect for basic human rights. Even Jordan’s King Abdullah ibn Hussein, touted as a hero for his newfound resolve to fight ISIS, oversees a government that has no freedom of the press and freely tortures dissidents. America’s support for these countries motivates a large number of disillusioned locals to join groups like ISIS that promise a different world order under the banner of religion.

Beyond the basic elements that pull supporters into their orbit, ISIS has shown considerable political savvy in advancing its aspirations. It brilliantly made an alliance with the secular Iraqi Baathists (including former soldiers,

wRiTE-wiNg

civil servants, and ordinary civilians) that were thrown out of their jobs in the early stages of the U.S. invasion. These Baathists provide ready-made organizational skills, military prowess, and knowledge of the Arab world.

There is no sound-bite solution to the Middle East. The issues are too complex, with far too many moving parts.

President Obama’s remarks at the closing session of a recent summit against extremism hinted at the reality of the situation: “If we’re going to prevent people from being susceptible to the false promises of extremism,” he said, “then the international community has to offer something better.” But bombing Iraq and Syria will not solve the problem of ISIS. Neither will putting tens of thousands of American boots on the ground.

On the contrary, these actions could potentially add fuel to the fire.

Working with Muslim communities in Western nations to identify issues that could lead some disillusioned members to join terrorist groups would be a worthwhile start. But what are we going to do with the simmering resentment in the Middle East over colonialism, invasions, bombing, and torture?

This anger isn’t going away anytime soon. But unless we begin an honest effort to address it, ISIS — and movements we cannot yet foresee — will continue to use these issues as ammunition. Sadly, the hostile political environment in Washington doesn’t give the president much space to honestly discuss these issues without being labeled as antiAmerican or some other nonsense.

The muscular arms of ISIS are pulling thousands into its fold and the results are horrific. We need to acknowledge that this nihilistic movement has appeal for a reason and begin to address these issues before the blowback blows us farther than we could imagine.

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

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

7

TuEsday

THE MORUNG EXPRESS

17 March 2015

PERSPECTIVE NEWS ANALYSIS, FEATURE AND DISCOURSE

In fractured Israel, all electoral bets are off FAITH AND

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

Netanyahu's did four months ago.

Likud seems especially reluctant to rule on its own, almost always preferring a grand coalition with Labor or centrist parties rather than one with just its nationalist and religious allies. At least in part, that looks like an admission that truly nationalist policies — such as annexations in the West Bank — would so offend the world and provoke the Palestinians as to bring ruin.

The right sees the West Bank as the heartland of biblical Israel and also a place of immense strategic value, since Israel without it is reduced at its narrowest point to about 10 miles (15 kilometers) wide. The left's key argument is that permanent control of millions more Arabs would destroy Israel as a Jewish-majority state.

The right has developed a majority among Israel's Jews. But it is also hugely unpopular among the nation's still-powerful elites, including academic figures, business leaders and — to a striking degree — the security establishment. The 2012 documentary "The Gatekeepers," presenting a highly critical view of the West Bank occupation, featured every one of the six then-living heads of the Shin Bet secret service, entrusted with securing that very occupation. The keynote speech against Netanyahu at the main opposition rally last week was by Meir Dagan, who led the Mossad intelligence agency for much of Netanyahu's term. A predecessor, Shabtai Shavit, has been similarly critical, as have recent heads of the military.

So great is the pressure on the right that successive Likud leaders have abruptly changed course or even crossed the line, including then-prime ministers Ariel Sharon and Ehud Olmert. Some predicted the same for Netanyahu, who in 2009 accepted the principle of Palestinian statehood, appearing to renounce all he had once stood for; but actions did not follow, and the theory that he was just pretending so as to confuse his critics gains An election campaign billboard shifts between images of Isaac Herzog, leader of the Labor Party, right, and Israel's Prime Min- currency by the day. ister Benjamin Netanyahu and leader of the Likud Party, in Tel Aviv, Israel. As no candidate is likely to win big in the wild jumble of Israel's political landscape, the outcome of the March 17 election could well be a joint government between Netanyahu and IMPOSSIBLE PEACE? his moderate challenger Isaac Herzog. (AP Photo/Ariel Schalit) Even among proponents of a West Bank pullout, the talk is of saving Israel demographically as a Jewish-madan Perry jority state rather than of making peace. Many yearn for Some things to watch for: unilateral moves, having given up on the possibility of a associated Press ISRAEL IS NEARLY UNGOVERNABLE negotiated deal after all these years.

Despite its reputation for plucky unity, the country is Israel might conceivably agree to the near-total West eeply divided and foul of mood, Israelis are headed toward what seems like a referendum badly fragmented — and that's reflected in parliament Bank pullout the Palestinians seek; previous governments have. The Palestinians may agree to drop the demand that on their long-serving, silver-tongued prime under the proportional representation system.

Combined, the two big parties get far less than half refugees' descendants be allowed to move to Israel, potenminister, the hard-line Benjamin Netanyahu.

But with so many of them having despaired of peace the vote. Then one finds a nationalist party appealing to tially by the millions. But the real conundrum is Jerusalem, talks with the Palestinians, the focus is mostly on Netan- Russian speakers, another for secular liberals and two where a division of the intertwined holy city along ethnic yahu's personality, his expense scandals and the soaring for the squeezed middle class. A united list represents lines would lead to perhaps the world's most complicated the one-fifth of citizens who are Arabs and is itself di- map, a tinderbox extraordinaire. cost of living.

Providing the worst of precedents is Gaza, the othAnd as no candidate is likely to win big in the wild vided between communist, nationalist and Islamist factions.

There are four religious parties, for Jews of Euer part of the would-be Palestinian state, on Israel's jumble of Israel's political landscape, the outcome of the March 17 election could well be a joint government ropean versus Middle Eastern descent and for varying southern flank. Israel pulled out its soldiers and settlers in 2005 and handed control to the Palestinian between Netanyahu and his moderate challenger Isaac degrees of nationalism.

The schisms are real, reflecting a society so diverse autonomy government of moderate President MahHerzog. It's an irony, because the animosities are overthat at times it seems to be flying apart. The discourse moud Abbas — a relic of interim agreements from the whelming.

Much has changed in the world since Netanyahu first is of one's rival destroying the country, through stu- pre-Netanyahu 1990s. But Hamas militants swiftly became prime minister in 1996, but Israel remains stuck pidity or evil. A TV debate between the main can- seized the strip and have been blockaded by Israel; didates other than Netanyahu and Herzog quickly they regularly fire rockets at Israeli towns, and three with the question of what to do with the highly strategic, degenerated into shouted accusations of fascism, wars have been fought. biblically resonant, Palestinian-populated lands it capcriminality and treason.

Then there are security threats to Israel from elsetured almost a half-century ago. where in the region: Iran, believed to be seeking an Israelis know it is their existential issue, but it seems A KINGMAKER COMES atomic bomb; its proxy Hezbollah, with a forest of misalmost too complex for a democracy. After decades of By dint of necessity, this constellation has nonethe- siles pointed at Israel from Lebanon; Islamic State jihadis failed peace talks under every sort of government, the less coalesced over the years into rival leftist and rightist rampaging in nearby countries; al-Qaida radicals on the whole festering thing has become such a vexation that blocs: the Arab parties aligned with the dovish left, and border with a disintegrating, still-hostile Syria. politicians seem to fear it, and voters look away. the religious with the nationalistic right. If either wins 61 Given the widespread pessimism, Herzog subtly dodges When he called the early election in November, Ne- seats combined, its main party governs. the peace issue, perhaps for fear of appearing naive. tanyahu seemed a shoo-in, but somewhere things went But for the first time in decades, there is a new parwrong. Notorious around the world for American-ac- ty that seems genuinely non-aligned: Kulanu, led by UNITY GOVERNMENT POSSIBLE cented eloquence in the service of a tough stance, he Moshe Kahlon, a working-class Likud breakaway of LibWith the electorate confused and fractured and no is extraordinarily divisive at home, where he has been yan Jewish descent who became popular for reducing clear path forward on the key issues, and with neither Neprime minister for the past six years, and for nine in mobile phone costs in previous governments. He says tanyahu nor Herzog likely to win a convincing majority, total. he will go with whichever side makes him finance min- a plausible outcome has their parties banding together.

His speech last week before the U.S. Congress, urging ister — as both almost certainly would — and seeks to They may also agree to rotate as prime minister in such an a tighter deal than he believes is brewing on Iran's nuclear reduce the cost of living. He appears to care little about arrangement, with the first turn going to whoever has the program, was typical: He impressed some Israelis, while the Palestinian issue. stronger parliamentary hand. infuriating others who sensed a political ploy.

Every recent poll shows him holding the balance of Such has already happened in 1984. Labor's Shimon Polls show his nationalist Likud Party running power, with about 10 seats while the blocs split the rest.

Peres and Likud's Yitzhak Shamir lived in uneasy coexslightly behind Herzog's Labor Party, rebranded the Ziistence and switched jobs halfway through. A few things onist Union in a bid for nationalist votes. There are sce- THE RELUCTANT RIGHT got done. But the main issue, then as now, was the West narios in which Herzog — improbably mild-mannered The winning bloc often rules in alliance with Bank; Peres negotiated over it with Jordan, only to see in a high-decibel land — becomes prime minister. And parts of the other bloc. Such coalitions widen the his peace plans scuttled by the skeptical Shamir. Shortly that would change the music: Herzog is a conciliator base and win points for moderation and inclusive- thereafter the first Palestinian uprising began. genuinely interested in ending the occupation of lands ness. They are also paralyzed by disagreement and Many fear another one is coming, even as Israelis fotend to collapse of their internal contradictions, as cus on the price of cottage cheese. captured in the 1967 war.

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he Chong people consider the Areng River at the foot of Cambodia’s Cardamom Mountains a sacred inheritance from their ancestors. The river sustains lush forests with rare elephant, tiger and crocodile species. The Chong people fish, grow rice, and gather roots and mushrooms on the river banks. They say that piles of money could not replace their river if it were destroyed by a dam.

The Chong people are not alone in revering their river. We call our rivers Father Rhine and Mother Ganges. The Mekong, Nile and Zambezi are venerated as Rivers of Life. In India, rivers like the Yamuna and Narmada are worshipped as goddesses.

Rivers feed us, connect us, and give us a sense of identity. This is why we celebrate them with an International Day of Action for Rivers on March 14 every year.

Scientists confirm what our ancestors knew from experience. Rivers connect land, freshwater and marine ecosystems. They host some of the world’s most diverse plant and animal communities.

Rivers sustain much of our agriculture, and their fisheries nourish millions. Their sediments protect our coastlines against erosion by the sea, and pull carbon out of the atmosphere. Healthy rivers act as natural buffers that balance ever more serious floods and droughts.

We often ignore that we depend on rivers for our long-term prosperity. We are damming them, polluting them and

Why We Celebrate Rivers Take a moment to think about what you can do to protect the arteries of our planet Peter Bosshard CommonDreams

sucking them dry. Some rivers don’t even reach the sea anymore. Between 10,000 and 20,000 freshwater species are at risk of extinction or have already died out. Because their migration routes have been cut, the survival of 24 of the world’s 26 majestic sturgeon species is threatened or near-threatened.

Rivers and other wetlands are more strongly affected by the loss of species than any other major ecosystem. Even so, they are currently faced by a dam-building boom of unprecedented proportions. No less than 3,700 hydropower dams are under construction or in the pipeline right now around the world. They include the Stung Cheay Areng Dam on Cambodia’s sacred Areng River.

From the Amazon to the Mekong, from the Himalayas to the Nile, from the Balkans to the Andes, civil society networks have sprung up to defend the arteries of our planet. They bring together

farmers and fisher folk, activists and teachers, rafters and lawyers, scientists and poets. They speak up for local livelihoods, analyze project documents, block construction sites, and hold decision-makers to account. Working with activists and monks, the people of the Areng Valley have organized protests, blocked dam builders from entering their territory, and raised their concerns in the international media.

Today, on March 14, more than 120 groups in at least 38 countries again pay their respects on the International Day of Action for Rivers. They are holding protest rallies and workshops. They are organizing writing contests and dance performances. They are marching along rivers and holding kayak races. They are cleaning up rivers and occupying the offices of dam builders. They are joining hands under the motto, #RiversUniteUs. On this day, we also celebrate the

successes that our network has achieved.

Together with local communities and partner NGOs, we have stopped destructive projects in Burma, Chile, China, Namibia, Peru, Thailand and many other countries. We have supported indigenous communities in Brazil, Guatemala, India, Malaysia and Panama in the struggle for their ancestral lands. We have informed dam builders from North and South that they will risk their bottom lines and reputations by building destructive dams. We have put the importance of rivers on the global agenda.

The people of the Areng Valley have so far managed to keep the dam builders at bay. Two Chinese companies have already withdrawn from the project. In late February, Cambodia’s Prime Minister announced that dam construction would not start until at least 2018. Yet the pressure continues, and the Chong people deserve our continued support.

Please take a moment to think about what you can do to protect the arteries of our planet. We can all avoid products that waste and pollute valuable water. We can educate our children about a way of life that respects the ecosystems of our planet. We can raise our voices and cast our votes to support the protection of the environment. We can get engaged in local watershed groups and support organizations like International Rivers. Because, after all, rivers are in our hands.

ACTION Rajani das

St.Joseph’s College (Dept Of Economics)

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he Bible defines faith as,” to have faith is to be sure of the things we hope for, to be certain of the things we cannot see (Hebrews 11:1).”In the same way the dictionary defines action as,” the process of doing something to achieve an aim.”The bible clearly mentions it is impossible to please God without faith (Hebrews 11:6).Putting faith and action together is believing and achieving. It’s having faith in yourself, your talents, your purpose, and most of all in God’s love and and His divine plan for your life.

God created us for His purposes that we fulfilled as His children. He uses us in ways that surprises the world specially our non believer friends.

Know that as long as you are in this earth, there is a purpose and plan for us. We are imperfect beings who have good days and bad days, challenges rises up and knock us flat on occasion. Yet we know we are are weak, God is strong, and when we put faith and action together we are unstoppable. Will I always get what I want? No! But I will always get what God wants.

Whether you are a Christian or not, you must never think that simply believing in something is enough. You can believe in your dreams, but you have to take action to make them happen. You can believe in your talents and have faith in your abilities, but if you don’t develop them and put them to use, what good are they? You can believe that you are a good and caring person, but if you don’t treat others with goodness and care, where is the proof? You have a choice. You can believe or not believe.

But if you believe- whatever you believe-you must act upon it.Otherwise, why believe? You may have challenges in your careers, your relationships, or your health. Maybe you have been mistreated, abused or discriminated against.

All those things that happen to you do define you or your life if you fail to take action to define yourself. You can believe in your talents.

You can believe that you love to give. You can believe that you can overcome your illness or disability. But that belief on its own won’t bring positive change in your life. You must put it into action. If you believe you can change your life for better or make a positive mark in your surrounding or the world, act upon those beliefs.

If you think you have a great idea for starting your own business, you must invest your time, money, and talents and make that business happen.Otherwise, what good is just having the idea? If you have identified someone whom you like to spend the rest of your life with, why not act upon that belief? What have you got to lose?

Having faith, beliefs and convictions is a great thing, but your life is measured by the actions you take upon them. You can build a great life around those things you believe and have faith in. In the bible, James said that our actions, not our words, are the proof of our faith. HE wrote in James 2:18,”Now someone may argue, ‘Some people have faith; others have good deeds. ‘But I say, ‘How can you show me your faith if you don’t have good deeds? I will show you my faith by my good deeds.’”As a Christian, I believe the final judge of how we’ve lived is God. The Bible teaches that His judgement is based on our actions, not our words. Revelation 20:12 says,” And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works.”It is hard to find purpose or good in difficult circumstances, but that is the journey. Why did it have to be a journey? Why couldn’t a helicopter just pick you up and carry you to the finish line? Because throughout the difficult times, you will learn more, grow more in faith, love God more, and love your neighbour more, it is the journey of faith that begins in love and ends in love.” If there is no struggle, there is no progress.”Your character is formed by the challenges you faced and overcome.

Your courage grows when you face your fears. Your strength and your faith are built as they are tested in your life experiences. One thing that I know that when we asked for God’s help and then take action, knowing in our action, knowing in our hearts that He is watching over us, there is no reason to be fearful. Day by Day God will reveal His plans to you if you trust Him. Your fears and concerns will diminished too, if you turn them over to Him and act in faith, working on solutions, building momentum and trusting that god will show you the path. You will still face challenges and frustrations. They are part of life. Yet when you put your faith inaction, you tend to be unstoppable, seeing obstacles as opportunities to grow. Having faith in yourself and your abilities is critical, but you must also have patience, humility, and the understanding that you cannot do anything without the help of others and in the end all credit goes to God. Nothing will bring you down faster than living without purpose or losing track of whatever you are most passionate about: the gift that gives you joy and makes your life meaningful. When our focus becomes self -centred instead of Godcentred, we lose our greatest source of power.

Our God-given talents are meant to benefit others. When we use them for that greater purpose, we put faith into action to fulfill His plans for us. We make a difference in this world that helps prepare us for the next.

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

8

Dimapur

NATIONAL

Tuesday 17 March 2015

The Morung Express

Congress hits the street against land bill

New DelhI, March 16 (IaNS): The Congress on Monday hit the streets protesting against the land acquisition bill as over 500 party workers, including women, were detained when they broke barricades while marching towards parliament.

Youth Congress workers, joined by senior party leaders like Anand Sharma, Ghulam Nabi Azad, Ambika Soni, Ahmed Patel and Oscar Fernandes, marched towards parliament raising slogans against the bill and the central government.

Police said the number of protesters was around 4,000 and as they reached Parliament Street -- a few hundred metres from parliament -- the crowd turned aggressive and broke barricades put up by police.

Some protesters climbed atop the barricades and waved party flags. They also indulged in sloganeering.

Policemen in riot gear used water cannons and batons to force the crowd to retreat while some

Indian farmers shout slogans against the government as they gather near the parliament for a protest against the land acquisition bill, in New Delhi on Monday, March 16. The bill currently in parliament proposes to ease rules for acquiring land to facilitate infrastructure projects. (AP Photo)

were detained.

Over 500 protesters were detained, including Youth Congress president Amarinder Singh. Some protesters including women were injured.

Soni said: "Police adopted a harsh attitude to

disperse the protesters. At least 5-6 people were injured, which is wrong."

Congress spokesperson Abhishek Manu Singhvi later said 50 people were injured in the batoncharge and were taken to hospital.

Amarinder Singh, who was leading the protest, claimed he received injuries in his right hand when police resorted to batoncharge and used water cannons. Party leader Randeep Surjewala said: "The BJP is anti-farmer and it

stands exposed today... farmers and the Congress will win this fight."

Azad said: "The BJP has been a party of capitalists.

They are not at all concerned for the welfare of the farmers."

Another party leader Sachin Pilot said: "The BJP is the same party that had proposed changes in the land acquisition bill but today they are opposing (the changes) them."

The contentious land bill has sailed smoothly through the Lok Sabha due to the NDA's majority, but the government is facing stiff resistance in the Rajya Sabha where it lacks the numbers, with the opposition determined to stall its passage.

"We were going to protest at parliament in a peaceful manner. We were stopped by police and despite our peaceful protest, they used water cannons on us," Amarinder Singh said.

"We are against the land bill of the NDA government. When the BJP was in

opposition, they had said they will allow a land bill which is in favour of farmers, but they are now going against this."

Ahmed Patel said: "Police have adopted this violent attitude against the peaceful protest of our Youth Congress workers, who were protesting in favour of farmers."

"We are not going to stop and this protest will go on across the country."

Leaders, including Patel, Soni, Fernandes and Kumari Selja, visited the Parliament Street police station and met all the detained Youth Congress workers. Later, police released all the workers.

The march by the Youth Congress workers began on Friday from Bhatta-Parsaul village in Uttar Pradesh and reached Rajghat on Sunday night.

Congress sources said party president Sonia Gandhi and a few leaders were likely to meet President Pranab Mukherjee on Tuesday to discuss the issue.

Christians say under siege in Modi's India after rape, attacks KolKata, March 16 (reuterS): Christians in India said on Monday that the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi had not done enough to protect their religion, after a spate of attacks including the rape of a 75-year-old nun at the weekend.

Christians prayed and held vigils across the country to protest against the rape during an armed assault on a convent school, the worst in a series of incidents that followers of the faith say are making them feel unwelcome in their own country.

The convent attack also comes in the same month an interview emerged of a man being held on death row for a fatal gang rape in which he showed no remorse and blamed the victim.

The government banned the documentary, "India's Daughter", a decision which angered some Indians who said it should be aired to highlight the prevalence of gender inequality and sex crimes.

Father Savari Muthu, spokesman for the Delhi Catholic Archdiocese and a national Church organiser, said the government had not taken "con-

crete action to protect Christians.

"We have to raise our voice against the atrocities. Christians will not tolerate this humiliation," he said, joining critics who say Modi has not done enough to ensure religious harmony in a country with a history of interfaith bloodshed.

Mother Teresa Legacy Questioned It happened weeks after the leader of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) said the charitable work of Mother Teresa had been aimed at religious conversion.

Critics say the remarks by the leader of RSS, an organization close to the government, contributed to a climate where Christians are seen as outsiders, despite a more than 1,500year presence in India.

"I am not Indian any more, at least in the eyes of the proponents of the Hindu Rashtra," prominent retired police chief Julio Ribeiro wrote in a column for the Indian Express paper.

The RSS condemned the rape.

"No attack should be tolerated on any woman in India. Be it a Hindu, a Muslim or a Christian," Suresh Joshi, RSS general secretary, told reporters

on Sunday.

Opposition lawmakers in the upper house of parliament on Monday said the attack could damage the secular fabric of the country, where about a fifth of 1.27 billion people identify themselves as belonging to faiths other than Hinduism. Since December, half a dozen churches have been vandalised, at the same time as conservative groups have campaigned to convert to Hinduism members of "foreign religions" such as Islam and Christianity.

In February, shortly after U.S. President Barack Obama called for respect for religious freedom in India, Modi broke a long silence on the subject and, speaking at a church event, vowed a crackdown on religious violence.

Muthu said schools across the country were holding prayer meetings on Monday. Christians held a silent protest in the streets of Mumbai on Sunday. Protesters demanded more security for churches and other religious institutions. On Sunday, a Catholic church being built in the northern state of Haryana was vandalised and its cross replaced with a small statue of a Hindu god.

Nun rape case: Police arrest 10 raNaghat, March 16 (ptI): Police have detained a total of 10 persons in connection with the alleged gangrape of an elderly nun and loot at a convent school in West Bengal's Nadia district.

District Superintendent of Police Arnab Ghosh today said seven to 8 persons were involved in the crime and it is now being ascertained whether the detained resemble the persons seen in the CCTV footage at the convent and their antecedents were being checked.

The CCTV footage at the convent had shown visuals of four persons, who were allegedly involved in the crime. The SP had announced a reward of Rs one lakh to any individual providing credible information leading to the arrest of the accused.

Director General of Police G M P Reddy, who visited the convent during the day, said investigation is on into the crime that took place in the early hours of Saturday last. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, had also promised "swift and strongest action against the culprits". District Magistrate P B Salim visited the Sister Superior of Convent of Jesus and Mary, who was allegedly brutalised, at Ranaghat Hospital. She was stable, he said. CID, which has been entrusted to look into the investigation into the crime by Banerjee, is planning to fan out to other states in search of the culprits, an official in it said on condition of anonymity.

ADG CID Rajeev Kumar is directly monitoring the case.

Centre launches Incredible India helpline for women tourists New DelhI, March 16 (IaNS): Aiming to ensure the safety of women tourists - domestic and international - the union tourism ministry has launched "Incredible India Helpline" on a pilot basis, parliament was informed on Monday.

Minister of Tourism and Culture Mahesh Sharma, in a written reply to the Lok Sabha, said various steps have been taken to ensure women tourists' safety.

The National Crime Records Bureau, however, doesn't maintain information regarding crimes against women tourists, he added.

Besides the helplines 1800111363, 1363, the minister said all states have been asked to ensure a conducive and friendly environment for all tourists and a set of guidelines to encourage tourism activities, with respect to basic rights like dignity, safety and freedom.

Married woman allegedly gangraped azaMgarh (up), March 16 (ptI): A 25-yearold married woman was allegedly gangraped for few months by two brothers who filmed the act on mobile phone in Ahraula area here, police said today.

The victim has alleged in her complaint that she was being raped by the two brothers, Manish and Avnish, for past few months, Superintendent of Police, Akash Kulhari said.

The brothers also blackmailed her by making MMS and threatened her of releasing it, he added.

An FIR has been registered in this regard and police is probing the matter, the SP said, adding that no arrests have been made so far.

MHA seeks report on desecration of church in Haryana, 14 booked New DelhI, March 16 (ptI): The Home Ministry on Monday asked the Haryana government to send a report on desecration of an under-construction church in Hisar district and the action taken so far.

In a communication, the Ministry told the state government to send a comprehensive report about the incident, whether any group was involved in it and whether the suspects were arrested.

The Home Ministry also asked the Haryana government to take steps to protect minority religious institutions and ensure that no such incident is occurred in future.

An under-construction church in Kaimri village near Hisar was vandalised by a group and the cross replaced with an idol of Hanuman, triggering tension in the area in Haryana.

The complainant, Father Subhash Chand of Williwarsh church, stated that the the group fragmented the cross and installed the statue of Hanuman and a flag depicting Lord Ram and threatened to kill him.

It was alleged that they stole a cooler and some items from the worship place that was under construction.

Furore over Sharad Yadav's remarks on women's complexion New DelhI, March 16 (IaNS): The Rajya Sabha on Monday witnessed a furore over Sharad Yadav's remarks on women's complexion, as sharp words were exchanged between the JD-U leader and Human Resource Development Minister Smriti Irani.

The comments created a ruckus in the upper house after union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad asked the member to withdraw his comments.

The Janata Dal-United chief said his comments last week on women's complexion were misinterpreted and refused to apologise. He said he was ready for a debate on the topic.

Yadav, during the debate on the insurance bill in the Rajya Sabha last week, spoke on India's obsession for fair skin. "Your god is dark like Ravi Shankar Prasad, but your matrimonial ads insist on whiteskinned brides."

Referring to the complexion of south Indian women, he said: "The women of the south are dark but they are as beautiful as their bodies... We don't see it here. They know (how to) dance."

He got away lightly when he made the comments last week, as several members laughed over them. Only DMK leader Kanimozhi had protested.

Thai institute keen to promote water-less toilets in India KolKata, March 16 (IaNS): A leading educational institute in Bangkok is keen to share its technology of water-less toilets with Indian collaborators, an official said on Monday.

Developed by a Thai professor, the water-less toilets convert fecal matter into manure and a liquid that can be used for irrigation purposes, said Nitin Kumar Tripathi, professor at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT).

"We want the technology to be introduced and implemented in various parts of India where sanitation is big issue and with the stress on sanitation by the Narendra Modi-led government, there is a big scope," Tripathi told IANS here.

AIT inked a deal with the JIS Group's educational initiatives, West Bengal, for student exchanges and technology co-operation among the two establishments.

Tripathi said the technology has been rolled out as an experiment in certain areas in Maharashtra.

Apart from this, AIT is also interested in sharing knowhow on building low-cost residences in Indian villages.

"These USD-1000 house concept developed in AIT involves the villagers in the construction process and is a sustainable concept which can also be used in India to boost living conditions in rural areas," said Tripathi, who is also the director, Special Degree Programme at the Asian Institute of Technology, said.

The institute is also mulling a project in Kolkata where indicators of quality of life can be mapped to improve living conditions in urban areas, said the official.

On Monday, Prasad said: "Comments were made on south Indian women, I was also mentioned,I completely disagree with the comment. Ask the member to withdraw the comment," he urged the chair. Trying to clarify, Yadav said his comments were misinterpreted.

"There are more dusky women in India and in the world... I can discuss the issue with anyone, we are in favour of Indian culture."Irani, responding sharply, said the member (Yadav) should not comment on the complexion of women in any way.

"I appeal through you (chair) to the gentleman,

do not make comments about the colour of any woman's skin. You (Yadav) are a senior member, a very wrong message is going to the rest of the country," she said. Yadav responded by saying: "I strongly refute the allegation."

"From (Mahatma) Gandhi to (Ram Manohar) Lohia, I have all the record of what has been said about women. A lot of struggle has been done for women with dark complexion," he said, to which Irani responded by saying: "Please don't do this. Naming Lohia and Gandhi and commenting on women."

Kanimozhi joined Irani in her protest against Yadav.

"Women from all parties are together, we demand a regret on it," she said. Deputy Chairman P.J. Kurien said he would not allow a discussion on the issue.

"White complexion or dark complexion, it is all the same, I am not allowing a discussion on this," Kurien said. Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad said the issue should not be discussed as it will get more complicated.

Yadav, however, said he was ready for a discussion.

Women leaders on Monday slammed the JD-U leader outside the house also.

Kanimozhi said: "The issue is why women's body and colour was being dis-

cussed in a such a derogatory way in parliament."

Communist Party of India-Marxist leader Brinda Karat said: "The time has now come for a code of conduct for our members of parliament and that should be very strict as far as use of languages is concerned. These are senior leaders and what they say influences people.

"It is shocking that none of the other MPs said a word," she said.

Yadav, however, decided to brazen it out by humming a popular song -- "Mora Gora Rang Laile" -- from 1960s Bimal Roydirected film "Bandini" to justify his point.

Stranded passengers, wrap themselves in blankets, as they wait at a bus station for the reopening of the Jammu Srinagar highway that was closed following heavy rains and snowfall in Jammu on Monday, March 16. The highway connects the Indian portion of Kashmir to rest of India. (AP Photo)

Country’s first private airport likely Media’s self-regulatory mechanism poor: Prasar Bharati chairman to be operational by next month Durgapur, March 16 (ptI): Country’s first private greenfield airport at Durgapur, promoted by Bengal Aerotropolis Projects Ltd (BAPL), is likely to be operational by April 14. “The final calibration of navigational aids at the airport by Airport Authority is done. Now, we expect to get final DGCA licence in a month,” state Transport Secretary Alapan Bandopadhyay said in Durgapur on Monday.

In all probability, the airport, christened Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport, will be operational from April 14, the first day of Bengali calendar, BAPL officials said.

The West Bengal government has 1.2 per cent stake in BAPL, and Singapore’s Changi Airport is the single largest shareholder in the airport.

Bandyopadhyay said Pinnacle Air, a non-scheduled airline, will begin its opera-

tions from Durgapur four days a week connecting Bagdogra, Coochbehar, Durgapur and Kolkata soon after getting license from DGCA. BAPL managing director Partha Ghosh said the company is in negotiations with IndiGo and GoAir for scheduled flights for connecting DelhiDurgapur including Air India and non-schedule airline Air

Coasta for connecting southern cities like Hyderabad and Bangalore.

Air Costa may connect these two south Indian cities for four days a week.

However, the final agreement will depend on conces-

sions the Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport offers.

The major concessions demanded by the scheduled airlines are waiver of landing and takeoff fees, underwriting minimum of seats and 30 per cent surcharge waiver for ATF for a greater timeframe.

State government has already given a three-year waiver of surcharge on ATF for three years to Andal, Coochbehar and Bagdogra airports.

Utsav Parekh, one of the initial promoters of BAPL, said the company will focus on real estate and was holding dialogue with several global realestate majors from Singapore, Japan and others.

New DelhI, March 16 (IaNS): Expressing concern at the “inadequate” self-regulatory mechanism within the media, Prasar Bharati chairman A. Surya Prakash has suggested that the Press Council must become a ‘Media Council’ with adequate media representation and acquire more teeth.

Some private news channels have been creating noise during prime time shows ignoring news content, he said. Surya Prakash, a veteran journalist, was addressing an open session at the 9th Global Communication Conclave organised by communication industry body Public Relations Council of India (PRCI) here.

“Each and every Indian is a stakeholder in Prasar Bharati since it depends on union budgetary support — about Rs.2,100 crore out of its Rs.4,000-crore budget in the current financial year,” he said.

“Its own revenue generation is around Rs.1,650 crore as of now. With increased focus on internal revenue generation, this is expected to improve,” he said.

Earlier, Editors Guild general secretary Ajay Upadhyay said the entire media community need not be painted with the same brush just because of some perceived unethical practices.

Most media houses do have gatekeepers in the form of strong news desks and editors to check the flow of news into newspapers and channels.

During the two-day conclave that ended on Saturday, communication professionals took part in panel discussions on media and PR ethics, corporate social responsibility, financial inclusion, technology and sexual harassment at workplace.

Based on suggestions from the speakers, PRCI has decided to launch an awareness drive to adopt ethical practices among public relations practitioners and conduct skill development programmes for professionals to understand the functioning of the media and its information needs.

Prasar Bharati was also looking forward to a new rating agency as the present system of gauging TRPs was woefully inadequate.

InternatIonal

the Morung express

Tuesday 17 March 2015

Dimapur

9

New Zealand confronts violent past, gives new hope to Maoris WAITANGI, MArch 16 (AP): Their land was confiscated, their homes burned down and many of their people killed.

Now, 150 years later, the indigenous Ngai Tuhoe tribe in New Zealand is getting a new start. The government has apologized for its past atrocities, handed over 170 million New Zealand dollars ($128 million) and agreed the tribe should manage a sprawling, rugged national park it calls home.

Last year’s settlement is one of dozens the government has signed with Maori tribes in a comprehensive, multibillion-dollar process described in a U.N. report as imperfect but nevertheless “one of the most important examples in the world of an effort to address historical and ongoing grievances of indigenous peoples.”

The payouts have transformed some of the tribes into major economic players in a nation where Maori make up 15 percent of the country’s 4.5 million people. They have also contributed to a broader cultural renaissance and improved prospects for Maori.

Tamiti Kruger, who led the negotiations for the Tuhoe tribe, or “iwi,” said the settlement provoked great emotion, especially for older tribal members.

“They could not believe

that they would be alive in a time when they would witness the return of their homeland,” he said.

The settlements are the result of legal claims brought by tribes against the government for breaches of the nation’s founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi.

The 1840 agreement effectively handed Britain sovereignty of New Zealand while guaranteeing Maori certain rights over traditional land and fisheries. Versions in Maori and English stated different things, and the treaty’s implications, including whether Maori ever willingly ceded sovereignty, continue to be debated.

Soon after the treaty was signed, conflicts between Maori and white settlers over who owned land escalated into a war that killed hundreds of Maori warriors and British troops.

The government began settling claims a quarter century ago, apologizing for its past actions. Some whites argued the nation would go broke, and some Maori said it wasn’t fair the government, a party to the negotiations, also got to dictate the terms, something the U.N. report cited as a flaw.

But a broad consensus has grown among lawmakers and Maori leaders that the process is working. Te Ururoa Flavell, New Zea-

land’s Maori development minister, said the settlements have not only righted wrongs, but have also lifted Maori confidence.

With the finish line in sight, the pace of settlements has picked up. The government has signed 72 agreements and hopes to sign the final one by 2017.

The settlements appear to be improving the economic and social standing of Maori, who still lag behind white New Zealanders on many social measures.

Maori have higher-thanaverage incarceration rates and a 12 percent unemployment rate, compared to a 4 percent rate for white New Zealanders. But the number of Maori who earned at least a bachelor’s degree rose 56 percent between 2006 and 2013.

“All of the stats that we see are that Maori, in pretty much every measure, from longevity to participation in schools, are improving,” said Prime Minister John Key. “And where the settlements have been, and where those iwi have had those resources, I think you can point to a faster improvement.”

Not all the tribes have used their settlements wisely. The small Ngati Tama tribe lost almost all its NZ$14.5 million settlement on bad investments in a computer software company and a fishing venture.

Treaty Negotiations Minister Chris Finlayson said there is no chance of a do-over.

“The right to make their own decisions also means the right to mess things up,” he said. The WaikatoTainui, the first big tribe to settle when it accepted NZ$170 million in 1995, has seen its fortunes yo-yo.

The tribe initially lost millions after making bad investments in foreign hotels and a rugby-league franchise, and its leaders were criticized for excessive spending on frivolous things like box seats at sports stadiums.

“People were burned over that,” said the tribe’s current chief executive, Parekawhia McLean. “But we have learned our lessons and have continued to grow.”

After the losses, the tribe took a more rigorous approach to managing its money and clearly separated its entrepreneurial and distribution sides, she said.

Through investments primarily in property, the tribe has parlayed its settlement into more than NZ$1 billion.

The tribe distributes millions of dollars each year to its 56,000 members in grants for education, health and cultural activities, McLean said. These are not handouts, she said, but rather “hand-ups” that will improve their lives through targeting specific needs.

In this February 6, 2015 photo, Indigenous Maori perform, in Waitangi, New Zealand, to mark the 175th anniversary of the signing of the country’s founding document, the Treaty of Waitangi. Financial settlements made to Maori tribes under the provisions of the treaty are helping transform them into major economic players and are contributing to a broader cultural renaissance and improved prospects for Maori. (AP File Photo)

The Ngai Tahu tribe also has turned its NZ$170 million settlement into over NZ$1 billion, thanks to investments in health care, property, farms and fishing ventures.

Tessa Gregory, a 22-year-old commercial painter, said the tribe helped cover a 14-week training course that enabled her to find work.

“Ngai Tahu was there from the beginning and they’re still there,” she said.

The impact of Maori tribes on New Zealand’s

economy is far greater than that of Native American tribes on the U.S. economy, said Stephen Cornell, a professor of sociology at the University of Arizona.

Yet Native Americans have more political autonomy than Maori, he said.

While some U.S. tribes have developed resources like gas reserves and casinos, Native Americans, who account for just 1.5 percent of the population, continue to lag far behind average Americans across most socio-economic

measures. Cornell said one difference is that the U.S. treats tribes as separate legal entities or governments.

Some Maori advocate greater legal status for tribes, but Finlayson said he didn’t think a U.S.style system would be welcomed in New Zealand. He said Maori tribes could take greater control over certain functions, such as welfare and employment training.

The settlements have cost NZ$1.6 billion so far, a figure Finlayson said could rise to NZ$3 billion.

The government has yet to reach agreement with Ngapuhi, the country’s biggest tribe, with 126,000 members, and the most complex to deal with because of its many factions.

Tamiti, the Tuhoe negotiator, said his tribe’s settlement has helped heal generations of hatred between the tribe and the government. “New Zealanders are to be commended for confronting their history,” he said. “It’s entirely untrue that you can’t change the past.”

Pakistani Christians clash Mass protests present big challenge to Brazil’s Rousseff with police after church attacks lAhOre, MArch 16 (AP): Pakistan’s minority Christians on Monday blocked roads and pelted police with stones in the eastern city of Lahore, a day after Taliban suicide bombers killed 15 people as they targeted two churches in the city — the latest attack against religious minorities in this increasingly fractured country.

Sunday’s twin bombings struck in quick succession in the Christian neighborhood of Youhanabad during morning services. The bombers detonated their suicide vests outside the two churches, about 600 meters (650 yards) apart. At least 70 people were wounded in the attacks.

After the attacks, angry Christian mobs blocked the highway, ransacked bus terminals and burned two people to death who they suspected of being involved in the attacks.

Along with Lahore, Christians also blocked roads Monday in the eastern cities of Faisalabad, Sargodha and Gujranwala.

In Lahore, they blocked a major highway that runs near

the two attacked churches and forced public transport services to shut down, said police officer Bilal Ahmad. Later, an angry Christian mob pelted the police with stones and smashed police cars and other vehicles, according to Rana Sanaullah of the ruling PML-N party. He said officers were trying to calm the protesters and get them to disperse.

Lahore’s police Deputy Inspector General Haider Ashraf told Pakistani Geo News TV that his men were “showing restraint.”

The TV aired footage showing a car speeding away after hitting some protesters who were trying to block it. Ashraf said he had no information what had happened to those hit by the car.

Christian schools remained closed as prayer services and funerals for the bombing victims got underway, said shipping and ports minister and Christian community leader Kamran Michael.

Also Monday, Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan denounced the twin church attacks as an “inhuman act of terrorism”

and said it reflected the militants “frustration” in the face of a stepped-up military operation against them. Last June, Pakistan launched a major operation to rout militants from their strongholds and has claimed success in the offensive.

“We have shrunk the space for them to operate,” Khan said Monday. Life in Pakistan is increasingly dangerous for religious minorities. They have been targeted by extremist Sunni Muslim militants and are also discriminated against in the wider society, where they are often limited to menial jobs like garbage collection.

Much of the country is already on edge after years of militant violence, including an attack on a Peshawar school in December that killed 150 people — mostly students.

The Pakistani Taliban group, which claimed responsibility for the church attacks, has been waging an insurgency for over a decade, seeking to overthrow the government and install their own brand of harsh Islamic rule.

sAO PAulO, MArch 16 (AP): Brazilian President Dilma Rousseff faced the biggest challenge yet of her young and turbulent second term, as hundreds of thousands of protesters took to streets in more than 150 cities to demand her impeachment and an end to corruption.

The Sunday protests, organized by right-leaning groups on social media and held across the continent-sized nation, had none of the violence seen in massive anti-government demonstrations that hit the country in 2013 and lingered into the following year.

They add to the mounting pressure on Rousseff, who is facing both political and economic crises as Brazil’s economy stalls and dozens of top political figures are investigated in a kickback scheme at state-run oil company Petrobras, which prosecutors label as the largest graft scheme yet uncovered in the country.

The biggest protest was seen in Sao Paulo, where some 210,000 people gathered on a main avenue, according to the polling and statistics firm Data-

folha. Large gatherings were also seen in the capital Brasilia, Rio de Janeiro and the southern city of Porto Alegre.

Rousseff didn’t appear in public, but government ministers held a nationally televised press conference in which they said they would introduce anti-corruption measures in Congress, action the president promised during her campaign for re-election in October.

“We are here to express our indignation with the government-sponsored corruption and thieving, and to demand Dilma’s impeachment,” said Andre Menezes, 35, protesting on Avenida Paulista in Sao Paulo.

“She may have not been directly involved in the corruption at Petrobras, but she certainly knew about it, and for me that makes her just as guilty and justifies her ouster,” he added.

In Rio, police estimated 15,000 people marched along the golden sands of Copacabana beach, where they waved Brazilian flags and many openly called for a military coup to

dissolve the government.

In contrast to the widespread violence seen during Brazil’s 2013 protests, on Sunday the only conflict reported was police using tear gas and stun grenades to disperse a small group of protesters in Brasilia who authorities said were trying to enter the Congress. In Sao Paulo, police arrested about 20 young men who were carrying powerful fireworks and brass knuckles.

Justice Minister Jose Eduardo Cardozo defended the government, emphasizing Rousseff’s record as a leftist guerrilla who stood up to Brazil’s 196485 military regime — and who was jailed for three years and brutally tortured because of it.

Rousseff has said she fully supports peaceful demonstrations and Cardozo added Sunday night that the rallies “confirm that Brazil is a democratic state that allows for divergences, the existence of opposing opinions and that we’re far from any coup option.”

Much protester ire was focused on a kickback scheme at Petrobras, in which at least

Netanyahu era ‘coming to an end,’ says former ally Lapid

Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid (C) speaks to members of the media in Tel Aviv before heading on a campaign tour March 15. (REUTERS Photo)

JerusAleM, MArch 16 (reuTers): The era of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is ending, with Israeli voters clearly more concerned about economic and social issues than about security or fears over Iran, a leading election candidate said on Monday.

The centre-left opposition is poised for a surprise victory over Netanyahu’s right-wing Likud in one of Israel’s most nail-biting

elections in years, according to the last polls. Nearly six million Israelis are eligible to vote in Tuesday’s election.

Yair Lapid, a telegenic former news anchor and TV host, leads the centrist, secular Yesh Atid party (“There’s a Future”), which emerged out of the cost-ofliving protests that swept Israel in 2011.

The party came a surprise second in the last

election in 2013 and is again set for an influential showing.

“The majority of Israelis want change,” Lapid, 51, told Reuters in between campaign events.

“The Netanyahu era is coming to an end. That’s not because security issues don’t matter but because social and economic issues are dominating the agenda,” he said in an interview.

“Netanyahu has missed

his moment. You can’t blame him - it’s never easy to know when the moment of your era passes. But for him it has passed.”

Lapid was finance minister in Netanyahu’s outgoing government but the two seldom saw eye-to-eye, and it was the dismissal of Lapid and Justice Minister Tzipi Livni in December that precipitated these elections.

When Netanyahu called the vote he looked set to secure a fourth term in office, which would have put him on track to become the country’s longest-serving prime minister.

But his focus on the threat from Iran’s nuclear program and Islamist militants in Gaza and the region left voters uninspired, with even long-running Likud supporters saying they had heard such rhetoric before.

Netanyahu’s speech to the U.S. Congress, criticized by many at home and in Washington, also appears to have marked something of a turning point. Before the speech, he was broadly ahead in opinion polls but his numbers have trailed

off since, with his anti-Iran message failing to gain traction.

Final polls published on Friday nearly all showed the Zionist Union, the centre-left opposition alliance led by Isaac Herzog and Livni, holding a four-seat advantage going into the vote.

“KINGMAKER” No party has ever won an outright majority in Israel, meaning coalitionbuilding is critical. It is also a tricky and unpredictable affair, with a vast array of allegiances possible among the 11 parties expected to end up in parliament.

Even if Netanyahu and Likud win fewer seats than the centre-left, they could still end up forming a coalition, especially as there are more like-minded parties on the right and far-right than there are on the center or left.

That puts kingmakers like Lapid in a commanding position. Going into the 2013 election, Yesh Atid was predicted to win 13 seats and ended up getting 19. Lapid reckons a repeat of that is possible this time

around and some analysts agree.

His party is known for having a strong grassroots organization, and activists say Israel’s polling methods, which largely rely on fixed line calls rather than mobile ones, fail to capture the party’s support among young urbanites.

“Around 15 percent of voters make up their minds on the day and we’re pretty good at tapping into those people,” said Lapid, who is fond of wearing t-shirts with a suit jacket and jeans.

Polls do show his party carrying momentum into the vote.

A problem, though, is how easily the centre-left could build a coalition if it wins. Lapid is a natural ally, but he has in the past been critical of ultra-Orthodox parties, which the centreleft needs onside if it is to cobble together the necessary 61 seats in the 120-seat Knesset.

Asked about the Orthodox factions, Lapid would not rule out working with them, and equally would not rule out working with Netanyahu again.

$800 million was paid in bribes and other funds by Brazil’s biggest construction and engineering firms in exchange for inflated Petrobras contracts.

Top executives are already in jail and the attorney general is investigating dozens of congressmen, along with current and former members of the executive branch, for alleged connections to the scheme that apparently began in 1997 before Rousseff’s party took power in 2003. Rousseff, a former chairwoman of Petrobras’ board, has not been implicated and so far is not being investigated, though top officials from her administration, including two former chiefs of staff, are caught up in the inquiry.

The mass marches are another thorn in Rousseff’s side, adding impetus to opposition efforts to thwart measures she backs in Congress. Brazilian growth has been weak since Rousseff took office in 2011.

The country likely entered a recession in 2014 and most economists surveyed by the Central Bank forecast negative growth this year.

‘China displaces Germany as world’s 3rd largest arms exporter’ BeIJING, MArch 16 (reuTers): China has surpassed Germany to become the world’s third largest arms exporter, a Stockholm-based think tank said in a report on Monday. Exports of major arms from the world’s second largest economy grew 143 percent over the years 2010 to 2014, versus the previous 5-year period, when China had ranked ninth globally, the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) said in a report.

“Asian countries continue to expand their military capabilities, with an emphasis on maritime assets,” Siemon Wezeman, senior researcher with the SIPRI Arms and Military Expenditure Programme, said in a news release.

More than 68% of Chinese exports went to Pakistan, Bangladesh and Myanmar. Beijing also sold major arms to 18 African states. Analysts say Chinese-made equipment has found eager buyers among countries at odds with the United States and its allies. China was “extremely cautious and responsible” with its weapons exports, the country’s Foreign Ministry said on Monday.

“We follow principles of helping the receiving country with its reasonable self-defense capabilities, not damaging global and regional peace and stability, and not interfering in the receiving country’s internal politics,” Ministry spokesman Hong Lei told a regular briefing.

China’s arms imports fell 42% between the years 2010 and 2014 compared with the prior 5-year period, the report said. China does not release figures for its arms sales.

China’s military spending has seen double-digit growth for decades, and Beijing has poured funds into modernizing its armed forces as it takes a more assertive stance on territorial disputes in the region.

Experts say some Chinese-made equipment is comparable to U.S.- or Russian-made counterparts, though precise information about its performance is scarce. China’s neighbors have reacted with ambivalence over the country’s development of modern equipment, including a second aircraft carrier, drones and stealth fighter jets.

The Morung Express 10 SPORTS ar inter sector football championship nba: Westbrook lifts Tuesday

Dimapur

17 March 2015

DIMAPUR, MARCH 16 (MExN): Headquarters 9 Sector emerged deserving victors of the Assam Rifles Inter Sector Football Championship. In a tense and pulsating final at No. 3 Training Battalion Football Ground, Shokhuvi, they beat Headquarters 28 Sector 4 – 2 to annex the championship.

A total of 12 teams representing the 12 Sectors had participated in the tournament which was held from March 2 and concluded

The champions with the trophy.

with the final on March 12.

Brig K Narayanan, Commandant, ARTC & School presented the coveted DGAR Soccer Championship Trophy and runners up trophy to the teams and Gold, Silver & Bronze medals to the players. Headquarters 25 Sector finished in 3rd position. Rifleman L R Chhana with 13 goals of Headquarters 25 Sector was awarded the best scorer during the entire tournament.

thunder to beat bulls

crunch time for south africa at World cup John Pye

AP Sports Writer

Russell Domingo was keep track of time in his head, waiting for the inevitable reference to South Africa's failure to win a knockout match at the Cricket World Cup. It's a record that has been universally — in cricket conversations — boiled down to one word: choking.

Domingo's South Africa lineup gets a chance to rectify that on Wednesday at the Sydney Cricket Ground against 1996 champion Sri Lanka, in the first of the World Cup quarterfinals.

At a news conference Monday, Domingo was up front about how his squad was coping with a past that could have a big impact on its future. It started with the preface to a question: "I hate to bring this up ...."

Domingo finished it himself. "Choking? Choking — there you go," he said, smiling. "It's taken four minutes — it's taken a long time."

So, after finishing the question, he went straight into the answer.

"It's been part of South African cricket for a period of time. Every time we get to these events it's going to be questioned. We've spoken about it, no doubt about it," he said. "We've faced

South Africa's Kyle Abbott, right, is congratulated by teammates after taking a catch to dismiss West Indies Andre Russell for no score during their Cricket World Cup Pool B match in Sydney, Australia, Friday, February 27, 2015. (AP Photo)

up front that in the past, we have let opportunities slip by us. "Hopefully, we'll have learned from the lessons that previous sides have made at events like that. By all means, we want to make sure that doesn't happen to us."

South Africa won four of its group stage games to finish second behind defending champion India in Pool B. There were some comprehensive wins, and two 400-plus totals, but losses to India and Pakistan were setbacks for a team that entered the tournament as a

prime title contender — not for the first time.

"We're trying to really focus on things we've done well, not get caught up in things that have happened in the past," Domingo said. "South Africa find themselves in a tough situation that if they win all their games before the knockouts, people question them. If they don't win all their games before the knockouts, people question. "We know we come with a clean slate — we come here knowing if we play to the best of our abil-

ity, we've got a good chance of winning on Wednesday."

South Africa's run of upset defeats started in 1992, when it rejoined the international sports community and played in the World Cup the only other time it was co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand. The South Africans were in control of their semifinal against England — the first of the knockout rounds at that tournament — until it started raining.

When they left the field, they needed 22 runs to win from 13 deliveries, certainly

an achievable task. But due to rain regulations in play at the time, when the game restarted South Africa was given the impossible revised target of 21 from one ball to win. The outcome caused an uproar, leading eventually to a change in the rules for rain-affected games.

It proved to be the start of a tough run for the South Africans. At the next World Cup, in 1996, South Africa had won 10 consecutive one-day internationals heading into its quarterfinal against the West Indies, but lost by 19 runs in something of an upset.

At the next edition, in England in 1999, the South Africans were in control of a semifinal against Australia before a bizarre run out for the last wicket resulted in a tie — allowing the Australians to advance to a final that they ultimately won.

Domingo said his players were only too aware of the significance of the outcome on Wednesday.

"I honestly don't think you don't need to speak about it being a knockout game," he said. Our strategy is "not focus too much on the opposition, not focus too much on the occasion. When the pressure points come, really focus on our strategies and our thinking, and what's made us successful over the last year."

Oklahoma City Thunder guard Russell Westbrook (0) shoots between Chicago Bulls forward Pau Gasol (16) and forward Nikola Mirotic (44) in the fourth quarter of an NBA basketball game in Oklahoma City, Sunday, March 15. Oklahoma City won 109-100. (AP Photo)

OKLAHOMA CITY, MARCH 16 (AP): Russell Westbrook had 36 points, 11 rebounds and six assists as the Oklahoma City Thunder held off the Chicago Bulls 109-100 on Sunday. Enes Kanter added 18 points and 18 rebounds and fellow center Steven Adams had 14 points and 11 rebounds for the Thunder. Westbrook's final assist came on the game-turning play. With the Thunder up 99-95 in the final minute, he held the ball until near the end of the shot clock, then passed to Anthony Morrow, who hit a 3-pointer. Nikola Mirotic scored 27 points and Pau Gasol added 20 for Chicago.

Oklahoma City won for the 16th time in its last 18 home games.

Cleveland's Kyrie Irving scored 33 points and J.R. Smith had 25 as the Cavaliers rolled past the Orlan-

do Magic 123-108.

LeBron James finished with 21 points, 13 assists and eight rebounds to help the Cavaliers win their fourth straight and sixth in seven games.

Victor Oladipo led the Magic with 25 points. Orlando has lost four straight.

In Los Angeles, Dennis Schroder had 24 points and 10 assists, and Al Horford scored 21 points as the Atlanta Hawks beat the Lakers 91-86. Atlanta's Kyle Korver left with a broken nose after taking an offensive foul from Ed Davis with 8:59 left in the first half. The injury ended a streak of 51 consecutive games with a 3-pointer by Korver, who missed both of his shots from behind the arc.

Reserves Carlos Boozer and Ryan Kelly each scored 13 points for the Lakers.

The Houston Rockets edged the Los Angeles

Clippers 100-98 after James Harden scored 34 points, and Terrence Jones added 16 points and 12 rebounds.

Trevor Ariza had 19 points and nine rebounds, helping Houston move within two games of idle Memphis for the Southwest Division lead.

Chris Paul scored 23 points for the Clippers, but missed a 5-foot fadeaway jumper at the buzzer.

In other games, Will Barton scored 25 points, including the game-leveling 3-pointer late in the first overtime, as the undermanned Denver Nuggets beat the New Orleans Pelicans 118-112 for their fourth straight victory, the Portland Trail Blazers downed the Toronto Raptors 113-97, the Phoenix Suns defeated the New York Knicks 102-89 and the San Antonio Spurs were 123-97 winners over the Minnesota Timberwolves.

public discourse

naga public call for cbi investigation 'Mob' condeMnation: denial of responsibility W e the undersigned, have decided to request the state government to hand over the rarest of the rare case of insane mob violence on 5th March 2015 to the CBI for an impartial investigation since it is never the first of its kind and we Nagas always had to give such incidents a go with deep unhappiness for the harmful consequences suffered by all. The offenders are by way of implication of the society and administration eventually go scot free, once the condemnations fell silent.

The Naga image, we know, suffered thus far because of exploitation of the situation on ground by organised mischief makers who may be insiders or outsiders minding their own selfish agenda at the expense of the rest who are basically innocent sons of the soil.

The Nagas as a whole due to these irregularly regular organised mishaps might have to pay a heavy price unless a deterrent lesson is imparted through a CBI enquiry. Further the case may be heard outside

Nagaland and Assam to avoid interference by undesirable elements citing the non-starter excuse of mob violence. It is felt necessary to look into the matter suspected to be premeditated conspiracy angle under the surface as relevant questions in Naga minds remain unanswered. A message to be sent across that Law has got a long hand and takes its own course of action seems overdue.

ACBIenquiryfacilitatedbythegovernment atKohima isimperativeinthe circumstances.TheoverallNagaimage

may not be sullied through machinationsofafewcriminals.Hence,thestate government is requested to act accordingly in public interest.

On behalf of the concerned citizens: Krurovi Peseyie, Medoselhou Keretsü, Edward Zhimomi, Pukhato Shohe, Nchumbemo Tungoe, L. Youdang Jamir, Theja Therie, Yesonü Veyie, Joshua Newmai, Savilie Kruneilie, Pheluopfhelie Kesiezie, K. Sahu Angami, Pele Khezhie, Kuolachalie Seyie

Image of Nagaland Lynched Nagaland’s first internet blackout

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any things have been said on the horrendous lynching on March 5 in Dimapur. Many actions and recommendations have resulted to handle the matter, and I do not intent to rephrase them here. This incident has also 'lynched the image of Nagaland', and for universal record it can be read in Wikipedia.

In a decent society even a criminal must have his/her day in court. We must allow justice to have its due process. Righteous anger is acceptable, but taking the law into one's own hand is a criminal act by itself. If the law and its enforcement is present, any attempt to thwart due process is a sign of barbarism. That is to say, on March 5 the barbarians (those who turned violent, and not those who simply protested) emerged to show their true color.

Dimapur is dotted with church buildings and filled with plenty Christian activities, but we still have barbarians in our midst (Romans 1:14-15). Repent!

But if the law enforcement is weak and the judges can be bribed, we have barbarians hiding in official clothes, similar to wolf in sheep clothing. The officials on duty on March 5 were overtaken by 'surprise element' and so I would give them some benefit of the doubt. Some disciplinary actions but not resignations may seem appropriate.

Investigation is still on and I for one does not condone the behavior of the culprit. Also the main accuser here may damn herself forever if she does not tell the whole truth --- because this has become a public matter with many factors hanging in the balance; its repercussions have already affected many lives. Thou shall not bear 'false witness'. Or, "Go and sin no more."

That said, we have seen a replay of Sodom and Gomorrah when the mob pressed in to molest and commit violence. Only this time fire and brimstone did not fall, perhaps because there are more than 10 righteous believers in Dimapur.

From here on, let us trust government mechanism to deliver justice instead of itching for jungle justice. But if the government distorts justice, go after the officials and expose them. As for students, expressing righteous anger is acceptable, but under no circumstance should it descend into violence, for violence always ends in injustice to innocents. Sin leading to more sins. The way to arrest sin and violence is to repent and exercise self-control: a fruit of the Holy Spirit.

"Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people" (Proverbs 14:34).

Kevi Meru

I

(Stifling alternate voices)

t’s sad that the recent internet blackout in Nagaland was totally unnecessary in the first place and has also set a very uneasy precedent for other powers that be in the future to carry out when they see dissent online.

Regardless of which side of the fence you sit on concerning the issue of the gruesome lynching of an alleged rapist. The internet shutdown was something that happened too late. The damage had already been done and the shutdown was a case of stitching the mouth of the bag shut when the cat had already been let out. So now when the issue was still fresh in the minds of the people we had no means to introspect by debating and discussing the issue not only to show the world that this was something that had affected the Nagas but also to try and get to the failures that led to this ghastly outcome.

As for the excuse that the powers that be gave, that the net was a breeding ground for rumors it holds no water in my humble view because far from the web spreading rumors it is medium where we can get clarity on the efficacy of stories through discussions. To me, the greater danger is rumors that spread through the word of mouth where an ordinary citizen has no means of knowing if it’s true or not.

Furthermore, there is a rumor doing the rounds that the State Govt. is planning to shut down popular Facebook groups like the Naga Spear and The Naga Blog. That I think would be a folly on the part of authorities. Shutting down similar sites will not only be fruitless as more will spring up in its place but will ultimately prove futile as any future groups that will fill the vacuum will be more difficult to control. I am no judge of how these groups were run, but one thing

I know is that they were run by identifiable people with a sense of responsibility. What guarantees can we give that any future group that springs up to fill the vacuum will be similarly administered? None and, as they say the devil we know is way better than the devil we don’t, because no matter how peeved the powers that be are with the internet, it is here to stay unless you want the Nagas to go back to the stone age.

Another much greater lesson for those who say that they rule over us is the stifling dissent by banning in any form a means of a citizen’s right to air their views has never had the outcome desired for those who seek to censor their subjects. A simple fact is that when frustrations against the state of affairs in one's daily life builds up and the pressure finds no other means to escape it spills out onto the streets. I hope our learned leaders are aware of this common sense fact.

If no one has noticed the internet is one way the Naga people discuss and debate the issues that affect them and find innovative means to address them.

Like every tool since the dawn of time, the internet has many dark sides. But to impose a ban for a period of time by the Government of Nagaland in wake of the recent gruesome incidents was not only extremely foolish but also a dangerous precedent. As stated before not only did it stop an alternative narrative from being discussed but also harmed the livelihoods of hundreds whose lives and jobs depend on this medium.

I hope in the future the Government finds better means to hide its incompetence, other than shutting up its citizenry.

KUKNALIM Ao Temjen Jamir, Dimapur.

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irst, just to make it very clear, this article is written not to instigate further violence, or try and justify what happened in Dimapur recently. I do admit the very sense of humanity was defaced that day. But what this is about is not what has happened, or what could have been done. This is about the slew of bashful, self righteous responses we see in the newspapers every day about the incident. In my opinion, we as a society are all hand in glove in this 'crime' together. Allow me to draw a parallel with this example: A father forgot to feed his son and kept him hungry. Either, he was so neglectful or he had nothing to give. The son waited for his father to do something to soothe his hunger. He was getting desperate by the minute. Finally, thinking his father won't be helping him soon, the son unwisely decided to steal food from his neighbor. But once he was caught, the proud father was so ashamed of his son's indecent act, he thought the only way out to save his family's reputation was to be extremely harsh on the boy.

Any intellectual 'father' would be tempted to take this moral high ground, including me. But, here I am trying my best not to be that father. There are a host of problems growing in our Naga society.

The intellects of the society either do not have the guts to deal with or have no solutions to these problems. We cannot just close our eyes and claim the incident in question was just a plain case of 'violation of human rights because Nagas are not cultured enough to know human dignity'. The underlying 'hidden' problem was screaming loud and clear.

Like all similar cases in the past, this 'rape' case would have been protested by a 'peaceful' procession, a series of condemnations in the newspapers, the culprit never known-or if known, let off by a toothless law with a light fine and soon forgotten off. In a way (I do feel deep regret for the unfortunate family), I am relieved that fixture is not being followed for this one time. Instead, this time, we are all reflecting- trying to answer questions we never bothered with before.

Social problems like the unabated inflow of illegal immigrants are choking our youngsters. The thought of being

strangled and subdued in their own land is pushing people to paranoia. Our sons have been suffocating with this for a long time- where were we then? Isn't it ironic that we have to finally let 'some uncivilized, backward, illogical, savage' Nagas (as some write-ups called the mob) to act, because the 'sane, logical, civilized, forward thinking' Nagas have no answers or guts to deal with problems that concerns us all? This is a call to every Naga who knows better than the rest to lead the way and start acting, or we will be doing more damage control in the future. Intellectuals in a society are no good if the only time their voices are heard is when they are 'condemning' some good or bad deeds done by someone.

The next issue takes the icing on the cake. Every single time there is a rape case, the question of morality of the persons involved (sadly, most times it is the victims') pops up. It is absurd that people think immorality is associated with getting raped.

It is wrong to think you deserved to be robbed because you don't keep your door locked. Are we this blind not to see that the trauma associated with sexual abuses is heavy enough for the victims without the added humiliation of bringing his/her morality into question in public? It takes a lot of courage to report a sexual crime, and it must be appreciated by all. When we silence a victim on grounds of morality, we silence all future victims too.

Let us first heal ourselves from within.

Let us address our social problems first, or else our civilized goodness will be fake just like our roads during Hornbill festival.

The beautiful cover of a rotten apple cannot hide the inside for long. I am thankful this incident did jolt us awake. It is not only the Naga society that has an ugly side - history shows us every civilization has experimented both ways and have learnt from both. No one has the right to blame anyone in this unfortunate incident, we all failed in our part. Let us accept it, humble ourselves and start making strides towards a better society. As for the mob, in my personal opinion, I cannot blame them for desperately struggling because they know the air around them is thinning, slowly but surely.

Arenjungla Kichu Kohima Science College

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.

Entertainment

The Morung Express C M Y K

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he 'I Will Never Let You Down' hitmaker has revealed she expects a lot of herself and often worries about what others expect of her too.

She said: ''I expect a lot of myself. I'm a little perfectionist. If I worried about the expectations of others on top of that, I think I would probably go crazy.'' And whilst she tries not to pay attention to what most people think, there is one special person she looks to for advice - her mother.

Despite trying to adopt her positivity, the 24-yearold singer insists she is just like a ''normal'' young lady, who suffers ups and

Meghan Trainor battling Laryngitis

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ortuguese Soccer Superstar Cristiano Ronaldo has overtaken Spanish League Rival Gerard Pique's Fiancee Shakira as the World's Most Liked Person on Facebook. The Real Madrid star has replaced the singer Shakira with 107 million 'likes' - 5,000 more than the Hips Don't Lie hitmaker, whose partner plays for Barcelona. Ronaldo tops a new list of most popular international athletes, well ahead of fellow soccer stars Lionel Messi, David Beckham and Neymar. Basketball legends Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant also make the top 10.

Shraddha Kapoor and Aditya Roy Kapur are back together!

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hraddha Kapoor and Aditya Roy Kapur became Bollywood’s most loved couple post the gigantic success of their romantic film Aashiqui 2.

Though they never went on the record to say that they were dating but they were often spotted at soirees and dos together, being the perfect lovebirds!

Then came a rough patch in their fairy-tale romance and they decided to break up! Insiders suggested that the couple broke up over “space issues”.

Reportedly, the ABCD 2 actress told her friends that Aditya’s erratic mood swings and tendency to go into a shell made her give up on the relationship and Shraddha’s family especially her dad Shakti Kapoor was unhappy with her daughter’s relationship.

Shraddha is currently waiting for ABCD 2nd release while Aditya is shooting for Fitoor opposite Katrina Kaif in Kashmir!

‘Cinderella’ tops US box office

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isney’s live-action take on the famous fairytale “Cindrella” grossed an estimated USD 70.1 million at the North American box office. The movie starring Lily James has a bigger opening than Disney’s “Maleficent” (USD 69.4 million) despite the fact that the 2014 movie has a more famous female lead, Angelina Jolie. Overseas, the film raked in USD 62.4 million for a worldwide total of USD 132.5 million, reported Ace Showbiz.

Attached to the screenings of “Cinderella” is animated short “Frozen Fever”, which features the “Frozen (2013)” characters. This provided a double dose of family entertainment, especially after a string of R-rated films in recent weeks. “Run All Night”, the latest action film starring Liam Neeson, entered the chart at No 2 with an estimated USD 11 million. It is a weak debut compared to Neeson’s “ T a k 3 n ”, which opened to USD 39.2 million in January.

Dimapur

11

''perfectionist'' boycott Dolce & Gabbana

ock band Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler is currently working on a country album that is planned to be released later this year or early 2016. The 66-year-old star, who has relocated to Nashville to work on the album, will release it in November or early 2016 via the label that is representing the likes of Taylor Swift and Tim McGraw, reported Billboard. Tyler, however, is yet to sign with the label. An insider said that deal could go down "anytime," but is due to happen "before the summer." Representatives for both the vocalist and the label have declined to comment.

Ronaldo overtakes Shakira as World's Most 'Liked' on Facebook

17 March 2015

Rita ORa is a Elton John vows to

Steven Tyler plans to release country album

eghan Trainor Has Reportedly Been Told To Rest Her Voice While She Recovers From Laryngitis. The All About That Bass hitmaker is currently on her first headline tour and she has been ordered to keep quiet in-between performances to help her vocals. A source tells Britain's Daily Mirror newspaper, "Meghan has never done a tour so it's taking a lot out of her voice as she is singing live every night... She has been told to talk as little as possible between gigs.

The laryngitis hit hard but she didn't want to let down her fans... If it means cutting the chat to get through the tour then that's what she's accepted needs to be done." It is not the first time Trainor has had issues with her voice as she previously suffered from polyps in her throat.

Tuesday

downs, something which she tries to show in her use of social media.

She told the German edition of Glamour magazine: ''Social media needs to be handled delicately.

It's easy to forget just how many people are following you on there. ''You have to learn what to say and when to hold back. But that's just a part of me right now, sharing my life with others on a daily basis - it's part of my job.''

Rita also revealed details of her new album, citing Gwen Stefani and Bob Marley as inspirations for the LP and hopes the album will show fans how she has matured.

Karishma Tanna, Upen Patel to take part in Nach Baliye 7

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ctors Karishma Tanna and Upen Patel, whose crackling chemistry was there for all to see in reality show “Bigg Boss 8”, will now regale TV viewers with their dance skills in the next season of ‘Nach Baliye’. The rumoured couple will next be seen together shaking a leg in the upcoming seventh season of the dance-based reality show.

Karishma has appeared in shows like ‘Kyunki Saas Bhi Kabhi Bahu Thi’, ‘Comedy Circus Maha-Sangram’ and ‘Baal Veer’. She will also be seen alongside actress Sunny Leone in ‘Tina and Lolo’. Meanwhile, Upen, who has played supportive roles in films like ’36 China Town’, ‘Namastey London’ and ‘Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani’ was last seen in Tamil romantic thriller ‘I’.

‘Nach Baliye 7’ will be aired on Star Plus.

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inging legend Elton John has vowed to boycott fashion label Dolce & Gabbana after the designers slammed same gender families. The singer posted a photograph of Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana on Instagram and branded them "judgemental" and "archaic" after they were interviewed in Italy's Panorama magazine, reports mirror.co.uk. "We oppose gay adoptions," they told the publication.

"The only family is the traditional one.

olce D t t a their u o d e ng anded h i s g a g l a has ing ''w they br .'' n h o J be ' after tic 2013. n r e o o h f t t l ' Sir E abbana e fingers IVF ''syn J o h n G l h t wrote a post: "How g t d i u o an ental l r dare you refer to my beauh t n r "I call tiful children as 'synthetic'. m o e children of chem- "And shame on you for wagjudg ildren b istry, synthetic children. ging your judgemental little ch "No

chemical offsprings and rented uterus: life has a natural flow, there are things that should not be changed."Dolce said that creating children "must be an act of love", adding: "You are born to a mother and a father - or at least that's how it should be.

Uteri (for) rent, semen chosen from a catalog." Gabbana then said: "The family is not a fad. In it there is a supernatural sense of belonging."

The "Your song" hitmaker has sons Zachary, 4, and Elijah, 2, with husband David Furnish, who were born to the same surrogate mother in California in 2010 and

fingers at IVF - a miracle that has allowed legions of loving people, both straight and gay, to fulfil their dream of having children. "Your archaic thinking is out of step with the times, just like your fashions. I shall never wear Dolce and Gabbana ever again. #BoycottDolceGabbana."

Artist of the saif Ali Khan to be stripped Week off Padma ShRi awaRd? T

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nion Home Ministry has asked the Mumbai Police to expedite the sending a report on alleged brawl involving Padma Shri awardee Saif Ali Khan in a restaurant, pending since the past seven months. The report was sought following a complaint from an RTI activist who had demanded that Saif Ali Khan be stripped off the coveted civic honour in the wake of reported framing of charges against the actor by a Mumbai court.

Responding to an RTI application, the Union Home Ministry said it has sought a report from Mumbai Police on the alleged brawl and the report was awaited. “As regard to Saif Ali Khan, no response to this Ministry’s letter No 1/3112014-Public dated August 20, 2014 has been received from Mumbai Police. Mumbai Police has been reminded to expedite the matter…,” the Ministry said in a RTI response to activist Subhash Agrawal.

Similarly, the Ministry has also complaint against another Padma Shri re-

Based on a RTI complaint, the Union Home Ministry has shot off letter to Mumbai Police seeking report on Khan

cipient Arun Firodia to concerned tax authority, the response said. Agrawal had approached Home Ministry with a complaint alleging that charges were framed against Khan by a Mumbai court in a case of brawl in a restaurant there.

“Film-actor is already facing several other criminal cases against him. An RTI response revealed that Saif Ali Khan, involved in many criminal cases, was recommended for Padma

awards by ‘Awards Committee’ in its meeting without mentioning name of member of committee having recommended his name,” Agrawal had alleged.

He had demanded that Home Ministry should take back Padma award not only from Saif Ali Khan but also from other such controversial persons.

Based on his complaint, the Ministry has shot off letter to Mumbai Police seeking report on Khan.

he Russian-German EDM powerhouse has previewed his second studio album by debuting Selena Gomezassisted 'I Want You to Know' that recently debuted at No. 17 on Billboard Hot 100. Following the success of his 2012 debut album "Clarity", Zedd is readying a follow-up that he plans to release later this year.

The Russian-German DJ recently previewed the project by unveiling its lead single that he recorded with his rumored girlfriend Selena Gomez.

Titled "I Want You to Know", the upbeat club-ready track received positive reviews from music critics. It has peaked at No. 17 on Billboard Hot 100 and at No. 1 on Billboard's Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart. A music video featuring Gomez as a disco queen was released earlier this month. To promote the single, Zedd recently visited Los Angeles' 97.1. AMP Radio and explained how he got to work with Gomez, who's now also his Interscope labelmate.

When they were record-

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ing the song together, Zedd admitted that he didn't find any problems working with Gomez. "What makes Selena different from a lot of other artists is that she takes directions, and to me that's really important," he said in an interview with MTV. "As a producer, I like to be there when the vocals get recorded and I need the singer to listen to what I say and bring the emotion that I want. And she was

really, really great with that."

He added that he also got to learn something from Justin Bieber's ex, saying, "I think what I learned is she's extremely talented with dealing with being in the press all the time and being everywhere and not being bothered by that. I find it extremely inspiring that you can shut off and kind of do your thing and not be bothered by other people."

nthSS musical nite attracts huge crowds

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lending with the golden voices of upcoming young talents and old timers, Chumukedima had a memorable Saturday night to remember for a long time to come.

On Saturday the scene at the North Town Higher Secondary School (NTHSS) , ground was mesmerise with sounds of music for almost two hours , with the crowds thronged the ground and wanting more before it had a glorious ending.

The occasion was significant as the NTHSS Chumukedima Alumni organised a free open air musical nite.

The Musical nite was supported by management NTHSS, to mark the beginning of the yearlong celebration of the 25 years of existence of the school.

Attending the musical nite as the chief guest with Kevekha Kevin Zehol, joint secretary and ex-officio Director, IT and Communication, Government of Nagaland congratulated the

NTHSS choir presenting the school anthem at the musical nite.

school proprietor Madam Salhutuonuo Kruse for ably managing the school over the last 25 years despite facing odds with ups and down in the school journey.

He also advised the teachers to give their best abilities while teaching the students and hoped that the students studying in the school would be able to bring honour, laurel and glory to the school in the days to come.

He also congratulated the school authority for organizing the night show, which will kick

start the beginning of the silver jubilee of the school.

He also said that he was looking forward to see the celebration and hoped that the school proprietor take forward it as “Samaritan project” in the service of poor and needy people of the state.

In his note of gratitude, Er. K.Kruse, chairman, Managing Board, NTHSS recalled of his dream of having a school in his early young days and which had become reality today and completing 25 years of existence. He also expressed sincere thanked

and gratitude all the local performers and people who has supported the musical nite and further solicit more support in the days and years ahead.

Earlier the program was compered by Kevitsovono Kruse & Obed Kent.Invocating God’s blessing Rev.Neivotso Neikha, Mission Director North East India CRC prayed for the success of the musical nite and also bless all present for the program.

In his welcome address, BB Chetri, principal NTHSS said that history is created as the NTHSS is celebrating 25 years

and called upon all to be a part of the spirit of celebration.

“This is could be one of the biggest gatherings for a night show in our home town” an alluded Ado-o Shuya told reporters.

As part of the celebration, the show started with the school anthem presented by NTHSS Choir, prominent local artist such as Keneisenuo Neikha, Azo Khamo, Imlirenla, Asebi Khate, Bokato Kiho, Tali Angh, Kevikhono Mor, Tono Yeptho,Tseikhrieno Sekhose and dance by Hebron Hearthbreakers performed during the musical nite from across the state . The loudest cheers from the crowds were heard when Kevikhono Mor took to stage, where she performed four songs.

It may be mentioned that NTHSS, Chumukedima was established 1991, is one of the most reputed school in the state of Nagaland from Dimapur district with a successful toppers in the past years.

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New field restriction rules affected Yuvraj's bowling: Dhoni

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MELBoUrNE, MarcH 16 (PTI): Yuvraj Singh's 15 wickets in the 2011 ICC Cricket World Cup was one of the major factors which contributed to Mahendra Singh Dhoni lifting the coveted trophy but the Indian captain says last edition's 'Player of The Tournament' is no longer as effective as he used to be in the current set-up.

Dhoni points to the change in field restrictions (with only four fielders outside the 30-yard circle) being precisely the reason why India lost "Yuvraj Singh, the handy left-arm spinner."

"If you see, after the rule change happened, Yuvi didn't bowl a lot. We must admit that once the rule change (field restriction) happened, it did affect his bowling although he is a regular with the ball in T20s," Dhoni said in context of whether Suresh Raina can do a "Yuvraj of 2011" in the ongoing edition.

Dhoni has never been a big advocate of the fourfielder theory as he feels that a lot of his part-time bowlers including the likes of Sachin Tendulkar, Virender Sehwag became far less effective in changed circumstances.

Another India-Pakistan match on the cards?

WORLD CUP QUARTER-FINAL 2015

NEW DELHI, MarcH 16 (agENcIEs): Much to the delight of cricket fans across the world, arch-rivals India and Pakistan can once again play against each other in the ongoing ICC World Cup 2015. If India defeat Bangladesh in the second quarter-final and Pakistan defeat Australia in the third quarter-final, the two neighbours will clash in the 2nd semi-final of the tournament.

These two teams locked horns against each other in the fourth match of the tournament where the MS Dhoniled side defeated Misbah & Co by 76 runs. In that match, as a result of a brilliant ton from Virat Kohli, India scored 300 runs batting first and then bowled out Pakistan for 224 runs. In the 2011 World Cup, these two sides had met in the semi-final where India emerged victorious by 26 runs. Interestingly, India have won all matches against Pakistan in cricket's biggest extravaganza and have a 6-0 lead. India will meet Bangladesh on March 19 while Pakistan will take on Australia on March 20. In the other two quarter-finals, South Africa will be up against Sri Lanka in the first quarter-final while New Zealand will be up against West Indies in the fourth quarter-final.

"In the pre-field restriction days, Viru paaji, Sachin Paaji and Yuvi used to bowl a lot and we depended on them. But they were all part-timers and on good batting tracks, they would find it difficult to bowl well.

"Like Raina is a good option if there is some help from the wicket. Also, he bowls a good line to the left-handers. I felt I needed him during the Ireland game. Like Shikhar (Dha-

wan) and Rohit (Sharma) are also part-timers but I can only use them when conditions are conducive," said Dhoni.

Since Yuvraj's name is always synonymous with World Cup triumph, Dhoni was also asked to compare Yuvraj's performance with that of Raina's in this edition, the skipper put it down to their different batting positions.

"Look, if you see Yuvi's

career, he started at No 5 but as soon as he was doing well, he was batting at No 4.

I guess from 2005 onwards, he has always batted at No 4 while Kaif was there at No 5 for sometime and I also batted in that position.

"Now Raina bats at No 5 which is a very key number in terms of context of the game. So it will be difficult to compare, Yuvi and Raina as the batting Nos were not similar," Dhoni explained.

Dhoni did admit that 2015 edition has not been the one for specialist allrounders as most of them have not got opportunities to showcase their skills with the bat.

"The all-rounders have not got a lot of chance during this World Cup. If you compare with lot of allrounders (Yuvraj, Dwayne Bravo), who played key role during last World Cup, are not playing this time. Also

an all-rounder needs to get a chance to bat between 30th and 35th over. That gives him a chance to score a 50 and also bowl decent number of overs," he said.

"That situation didn't arise till now in this World Cup. They haven't been challenged in their batting although they have got more exposed to bowling.

Also every all-rounder is India's MS Dhoni watches as he hits the winning runs to defeat not like Jacques Kallis bat- Zimbabwe by six wickets to win their Cricket World Cup Pool ting at No 3."

B match in Auckland, New Zealand on March 14. (AP Photo)

team of local Cyclists from the Naga blog also participated as a sign of bonhomie during the flag off ceremony programme.

Parliamentary Secretary for Youth Resources & Sports, Khriehu Liezietsu, Commissioner and Secretary Menokhol John and officials from the department of Youth Resources & Sports took all initiatives and managed the programme successfully. Students from different colleges also attended the programme.

INDIaN WELLs, MarcH 16 (aP): Serena Williams is settling right into the BNP Paribas Open, producing a quick, businesslike effort in advancing to the fourth round Sunday while enjoying her return after a 14-year absence.

She beat up-and-comer Zarina Diyas of Kazakhstan 6-2, 6-0 in 53 minutes, a routine affair compared to the emotional roller coaster she rode Friday night after walking onto stadium court for the first time since being driven away by a hail of boos as a teenager in 2001.

"It definitely felt back to normal out there," Williams said. "It feels really special. I feel really glad to be here and still be in the tournament."

Four-time Indian Wells winner Roger Federer needed 10 more minutes than Williams to dispatch Diego Schwartzman 6-4, 6-2 in the men's second round. Federer hit a 122 mph ace to set up match point and blasted a forehand winner to end it, leaving him two shy of 50 career wins in the desert.

"I'm moving well, which Roger Federer, of Switzerland, returns to Diego Schwartzman, is key on this surface be- of Argentina, during their match at the BNP Paribas Open tencause the easy shots and nis tournament on March 15 in Indian Wells, Calif. (AP Photo)

easy points are not going to happen so easily here like they maybe do in Dubai or Australia or the indoor season," Federer said. "I was successful playing on my terms. There are certain things I can do better, but for a first round it's a good start."

Three-time champion Rafael Nadal could say the same thing, winning 6-4, 6-2 over Igor Sijsling. Nadal dominated their baseline rallies in his opening match of the two-week tournament.

"I moved myself a little bit quicker tonight than what I was doing one month ago," Nadal said. "I was able to defend some points well, to have some good passing shots, have some winners, some good shots down the line with my forehand. That always gives me a lot of confidence."

Third-seeded Simona Halep needed three sets to beat Varvara Lepchenko 6-1, 3-6, 6-1. Lepchenko had 56 unforced errors to 37 for Halep.

Playing in the 91-degree heat of an unusually warm desert afternoon, Williams was bathed in applause by the half-full stadium court crowd. They booed supportively when

KoHIMa, MarcH 16 (MExN): Alongside the ongoing 6th Silver Cup T20 Cricket Tournament, the Family Planning Association of India, Nagaland Branch will conducting free

Voluntary Consultation and Testing (VCT) Camp from tomorrow. Organising committee secretary Robi Thapa informed that the camp will be conducted from 2:00 pm to 3:00pm

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Nagaland Governor flags off Williams, Federer, Nadal advance at Indian Wells Brahmaputra NE Cycle Rally

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KoHIMa, MarcH 16 (DIPr): The Governor of Nagaland & Assam, P.B. Acharya flagged off ‘Call of the Brahmaputra NE Cycle Rally’ at Raj Bhavan, Kohima o March 15.

The call of the Brahmaputra NE Cycle Rally was a part of the programme initiated by ‘Sarhad’ a wellknown social organisation based in Pune Maharashtra. The main motive of this Cycle Rally to the Northeastern states was to connect the heart of the people and to

develop a feeling of oneness through promotion of tourism so that the people of the region would not feel a sense of isolation from the mainland India. This programme was also aimed at reaching out to the youths and the people of the seven sisters to convey a message “in vision let us work towards creating a peaceful, strong and progressive northeast”.

Altogether 20 Cyclists led by its President, Sangeev Shah participated in this mega Cycle Rally. A

the chair umpire ruled an apparent ace ticked the net on her second match point.

Williams waved her left arm dismissively toward the chair. She screamed in frustration when her backhand error wasted a second match point and forced deuce. The world's top-ranked women's player closed it out on her third match point when Diyas' backhand sailed long.

"I was able to relax because I was able to do more of the right things and not make as many mistakes as I did in my last round," she said. Williams extended her current winning streak to 13 matches in her first tournament since winning her 19th Grand Slam title at the Australian Open in January.

Diyas was making her debut at Indian Wells and fell to 2-9 against top-10 players in her young career. She improved her ranking by 129 spots last year and is currently No. 32. She committed 27 unforced errors to 20 for Williams, who converted six of 12 break points. Next up for Williams is Sloane Stephens, who beat two-time major champion Svetlana Kuznetsova 7-6 (4), 1-6, 6-4.

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Indian women beat Poland to win Hockey World League FPAI to conduct free VCT camp at Silver Cup

from tomorrow till March 24. Therefore all interested persons desirous of blood test for Hepatitis B & C, Blood Group and HIV have been requested to avail the facility free of cost.

6th Silver Cup T20 cricket Tournament

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NEW DELHI, MarcH 16 (TNN): Indian women's hockey team lifted the Hero Hockey World League Round 2 defeating Poland 3-1 in a high-intensity final at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium on Sunday. The final also marked the completion of 200 international caps for skipper Ritu Rani, who scored in the 59th minute, and 100 caps for goalkeeper Savita. Deepika was declared the player of the match while Polish skipper Marlena Rybacha was de-

clared the player of the tournament.

The Indian women, in the fourth minute, had their first opportunity to take the lead through a penalty corner but the Poland defence stood firm. Indians had another penalty corner in the ninth minute but Poland was not going to let the hosts have it easy. Poland's marking and India's fast-paced attack saw an action filled match that was heading towards a goalless first half when Vandana Katariya took a reverse shot from the left in the 15th

minute to put the home team 1-0 ahead in the match. The Polish girls showed a lot of fight and equalized in opening minute (17th minute) of the second quarter through a penalty corner which was executed with planned variations. Oriana Walasek finished a well-orchestrated move.

Both teams looked for opportunity through the third quarter with India conceding two back-toback penalty corners. But the hosts soon launched a counter-attack and Rani, playing her first tourna-

ment since the Asian Games after recovering from a dislocated shoulder, netted the ball from an acute angle in the 44th minute to make it a 2-1 lead. The hosts kept up their attack and Ritu Rani deflected a pass from Poonam Rani in the 59th minute to seal the issue with a 3-1 scoreline. In earlier matches, Malaysia beat Thailand 3-0 to take the third spot while Russia stunned Kazakhstan 9-0 for fifth place. For seventh position, Ghana overcame Singapore 2-1.

KoHIMa, MarcH 16 (MExN): Radiant CC, Bashers and Sparks CC today registered win to move into the pre-quarters of the the ongoing 6th Silver Cup T20 Cricket Tournament at Kohima Local Ground.

In close shave first match of the third day, Radiant CC defeated United Brothers by six runs. Winning the toss, Radian elected to bat and set a target of 107 runs losing all wickets in 19 overs with Mangkhum scoring highest 29 runs.

United Brothers bowler Renjamo claimed four rival wickets. Chasing the target, United Brothers were all out at 101 runs in 18 overs.

Radiant bowlers Zhalepra and Achum claimed two rival wickets each. Mang-

Matches for March 17 Kohima Knights vs Kohima Capitals @ 7am Flamingos vs Pirates CC @ 10am Hill Stars CC vs Nemesis @ 1pm khum was adjudged man of the match for claiming two wickets and scoring 29 runs.

In the second match, Bashers thrashed Spartans by 155 runs. Bashers took the bats winning the toss and scored a huge 206 runs losing 4 wickets in complete innings. Oren scored highest 85 runs while Wapang and Tohoto contributed 40 and 30 runs each. Chasing the target, Spartans were bundled out at 52 runs in 12.4 overs. Bashers bowler Wabang knocked 5 rival wickets in 2.3 overs and was awarded

of the man of the match.

Playing the last match of the day, Sparks CC defeated Wriggles by 80 runs.

Favoured in the toss itself, Sparks CC chose to bat and set a tally of 177 runs losing 7 wickets in 20 overs. Wriggles bowler Atsung took 3 wickets while Apong downed 2 wickets. Chasing the target Wriggles were all out scoring 97 runs. Sparks bowler Along claimed the man of the match title for taking four rival wickets and scoring 38 runs. Saurav Singh of Sparks also took four rival wickets.

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