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DIMAPUR • Vol. XII • Issue 73 • 12 PAGes • 5
www.morungexpress.com
FriDAY • MArch 17 • 2017
T H e
ESTD. 2005
P o W e R
o F
T R u T H
Great knowledge is universal. Small knowledge is limited. Great words are inspiring; small words are chatter Captain Amarinder Singh sworn in as Punjab CM PAGE 08
reflections
By Sandemo Ngullie
SHGs to have single database with unique identity
— Zhuangzi
Third Test: Smith, Maxwell lead Australian charge
PAGE 02
PAGE 12
facing apathy, Hindi teachers continue protest Morung Express News
to go early and catch the bus (which moves by 4:30 am) on time because if you miss it, you will have to wait the entire day to book the night bus,” narrates Vingusanuo. From Loakkun, the first destination is to reach Kanubari bazaar where travelers have to hitch ride in private vehicles to go to Tizit. After boarding the sole Tizit bus to Dimapur, the mother then had to catch a taxi to Kohima. “From Dimapur, I caught a taxi till Kohima town and then I had to hire another taxi to go to Porterlane at by parent’s house. I reached home only at 6.30 in the evening. With so much difficulty I came here,” exclaims the aggrieved teacher. The stress that Vingusanuo goes through is beyond financial. With an enrollment of more than 140 students in the Lower Primary School Loakkun, she is the sole Hindi Teacher in the school. Even during pregnancy and after delivery, she had to go to school despite being on leave. “Exams were approaching and I was worried for the students so I had to go to school despite being on leave. There was no one to take my place. We did all this without any salary.” When asked how she is surviving without salary for nine months, Vingusanuo says that she is dependent on others for her survival. Expressing her disappointment over the failure of the government to provide their salaries, Vingusanuo laments, “The government pretends as if they haven’t seen our misery, even though they can clearly see it.”
Kohima | March 16
A different year it may be, but the same protests continue in Nagaland. The anger of the protestors is slowly fading to exhaustion. Yet, the struggle has not waned. The salary issue for teachers has been going on since 2013, says Sherinlo Keppen, from Dimapur who mentions that the CSS Hindi teachers never received regular salary since then. Last year in November a meeting held with the officials of Department of School Education came to an Not overcharging me? agreement that all the pending salaLook, ‘truth knows all your lies’, ok. So careful, auro ries will be paid within 2016, however CSS Hindi teachers protesting outside Nagaland Civil Secretariat in Kohima on Thursday. (Morung Photo) the teachers are running on the tenth daam thek thek kopi. chased away by the house owners. We teachers. The reason being that two will be fully responsible for the Act.” month now without salaries. “To maintain our dignity, we re- have to borrow money with an interest months’ salary will not be enough to sorted to non-violent agitation where of 10 percent. We have been threatened pay the credit that the teachers have A teacher’s ordeal Eldest among Vingusanuo is a Hindi teacher at wore black badges to work in the of being jailed. We cannot bear it any- taken for nine months besides the inJain community we Lower Primary School Loakkun, Mon. first phase. But it hurts our sentiments more. We are also human beings. But terest that has piled up. “What can we do with two months’ Travelling for almost 14 hours all the that none of the leaders, the officials our misery is not being understood by in Nagaland and Ministers have come to talk with us the people in power,” laments Keppen. salary?” questions Elika, adding that way from Mon, changing five vehicles, passes away Leaving her two month old baby unless the department fulfills their de- Vingusanuo made it to the capital on or enquire about our conditions,” says DIMAPUR, MARCH Keppen, stating that the officials con- in Dimapur, Elika, CSS Hindi Teacher mands to pay their nine months’ salary, borrowed money. Carrying her four month old child, Vingusanuo is pro16 (MExN): Notable so- tinued to give excuses mostly passing Convenor, has joined the protest. Elika the agitation will continue. explains that although all the Hindi Another demand is the absorption of testing outside the Secretariat Complex the blame on the Central Government. cial worker and the oldSome of the excuses given, accord- teachers are suffering the same misery, the CSS Hindi Teachers in the State plan. in Kohima on March 14. est person among the The CSS Hindi Teachers and ANHWhat could have been a six hour Janin community in Na- ing to Keppen, were: ‘The MHRD of- the worst hardships are faced by teachgaland, Phuli Devi Sethi ficials keep changing’, ‘Since the Plan- ers in far flung areas. “We are feeling TU have decided to go on an indefinite journey was extended to 14 hours bepassed away in Dimapur ning Commission was changed to Niti tired of sharing our grievances to the agitation at the Nagaland Civil Secre- cause of the lack of transportation in tariat Kohima. In a statement written to Loakkun. today. She was 95. Wife Ayog with the emergence of Modi Gov- officials,” she states. On March 14, the Chief Secretary the Principal Secretary of School Edu“I borrowed money to come to Koof late late Nemichand ernment, the system has been changed had tried to negotiate with the teach- cation, it stated, “If something happens hima for the protest. We don’t get taxis Sethi and belonging to which is one major problem’. “We have families, we have bills to ers to agree on two months’ salary but to teachers during the agitation from in our area. There is only one day bus in Mahabir Rice Mill family, she leaves behind 4 sons pay, we need food. Some of us have been this was flatly refused by the agitating the government’s side, the government Tizit that goes to Dimapur so you have and a daughter, 18 grandchildren and 26 greatgrandchildren. Born at Minda, Rajasthan, she got married in her teens to Late Nemichand Sethi IMPHAl, MARCH 16 (IANS): MLAs to take stock of the situation DIMAPUR, MARCH 16 (MExN): MP the NE after Guwahati, which caters to up- metres, Rio questioned as to why the parin the forties whose famarising out of the economic block- to the Lok Sabha from Nagaland State, per Assam, Army and Para-military Forces ticular line was shelved. Regarding the ily had already settled in The United Naga Council (UNC) Dimapur, Nagaland. The has rejected Manipur’s new Chief ade imposed from November 1 Neiphiu Rio on Wednesday spoke at the and also the State of Manipur. For which, Amguri, Naginimora, Furkating and Baghfamily established the Minister N. Biren Singh’s appeal against the government move to Parliament and stressed on the need to de- he emphasized that Dimapur Railway Sta- ty Valley, Rio stated that the work should be velop the rail networks in the North East re- tion be made into a smart station and pro- taken up on priority. first industry in Naga- to end the economic blockade of create two new districts. The then Congress govern- gion, and in particular Nagaland state. land, Mahabir Pd. Many the state. vided with all the facilities and amenities. Further on the Look East Policy and Act During his election campaign, ment hit back by forming seven enterprises have been In regard to the new line between Di- East Policy, Rio reminded that the originalRio stated that the railway fund alloestablished by the fam- Prime Minister Narendra Modi had districts. cation to the NE has been encouraging mapur to Tizit, Rio stated that the line goes ly proposed and planned Trans Asian Rail TheblockadebyNagasofthetwo since it has been enhanced to around Rs. through the foothills, which is fertile and Network should not be abandoned. The acily in last 100 years in Na- vowed to end the blockade within galand. Meanwhile, in 48 hours if the Bharatiya Janata Par- main highways that link Manipur 69,029.89 crore. However, he lamented on rich in minerals and has a huge deposits tual plan route was from Dimapur-Kohima, mourning of her passing ty (BJP) took power in the state. with Assam, Nagaland and Myan- the work pace of the Dimapur — Kohima of oil and coal. Therefore, he said that the Senapati-Imphal and Moreh to South East away the NIIT, Dimapur But the UNC made it clear that mar have led to major shortages in Railway project, which is 88 kilometers. project be taken up in urgent manner and Asia, which is parallel to the National Highcenter will remain closed the blockade would continue un- the state, particularly in Imphal. The MP also stated that he has learnt that on top priority. The line between Dimapur way. But the proposed plan was abandoned on March 15 and 16. Late til the government held talks with However, around 900 trucks car- only 26 kilometres can be completed in to Tizit is a stretch of 257 kilometers and and the work of the railways started from DiPhuli Devi Sethi was cre- it over its demands. rying supplies are allowed to reach two years time. Adding that the pace is very touches five districts - Dimapur, Wokha, mapur to Zubza without reaching Kohima. mated in the Hindu CreManipur in a week. But residents say slow and it has not been connected to the Mokokchung, Longleng and Mon. This “The government has not inRiosuggestedthattheoriginalplanshould matorial ground, Walmuch of what they carry almost improject was approved by the Railway Board not be ignored, although he is not against the vited us for talks on the issue. The State capital – Kohima, Rio asked that imford, after a procession was undertaken from the economic blockade shall contin- mediately reaches the black market. mediate survey to be taken up so that there in 2013-14, under item 21 and has been en- present work. He however stated that the ongoing work from Jiribam to Tupul and then to Biren Singh will face a floor test on is no time overrun and no cost escalation. tered in the Pink Book of the Railways. family’s residence near ue,” a UNC leader said. Regarding the BG line connecting Tuli Imphal, which is going on a rapid progress has He also mentioned that Dimapur is the Biren Singh chaired a meeting March 23 to prove his majority in the Durga mandir, Dimapur. second highest revenue earning station in and Tuli Town, covering only 9 to 10 Kilo- no habitation and unfavourable terrain. of ministers and ruling coalition 60-member assembly.
UNC blockade continues in Manipur Rio urges devp of rail networks in Nagaland
It’s a big world out there
Naga Cyclist Sievituo Solo on his journey across 24 countries Morung Express News Kohima | March 16
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A night alone in the wild amidst thunderstorms and wildlife, landing up in a billionaire’s home in Switzerland, sharing rides with a Korean Scooterist , relishing Naga food in Croatia, stranger’s kindness and the curiosity of Balkan kids—these were the memoirs of Sievituo Solo’s journey on a Bamboo cycle to Europe and USA. Riding on his self-made Bamboo cycle, Solo travelled for 210 days in 24 countries covering a distance of 13,000 km from May 2016 to January 2017. On January 21, Solo returned to Kohima, and has since continued his work at Project 72 hours. Sharing his experiences on his fourth expedition on March 16 at Dream Café, Solo said, “The whole point of the journey was to bring back something and educate and share the knowledge with our people.” His first three expeditions with Ruokuo Kire began with a tour of Nagaland in 2011, followed by South Asia and India in 2013, and South East Asia in 2014-15. The bamboo cycle, which he learned to build from Manipur, was redesigned and restructured by
Mithun Mela stresses on increasing the animal’s population in nagaland
Nagaland spends Rs 231 crore annually on import of livestock Chizokho Vero Saptiqa | March 16
A photo of Sievituo Solo taken during his journey on a bamboo cycle across Europe.
Richard Belho and together with the team of Project 72 they built the bike. To undertake the journey, Solo partnered with Zynorique, Dream Corp, NBRC, IDBI bank, Project 72 hours and the Government of Nagaland which helped him in obtaining his visa. The people in Europe, they could not believe that the cycle was made of bamboo, says Solo who mentions that the first impression for him in his journey was the revelation that the world outside was hardly aware of Nagaland and Nagas.
“We Nagas take so much pride in our hospitality, but in actuality our hospitality is just’ another’ hospitality. The hospitality outside is so real and different,” said Solo, while narrating how strangers just welcomed him in their homes, and offered food, lodging, essentials and some even offered money. On things he witnessed during his journey, Solo said: “People respect their government, they take care of public properties and people definitely do not waste time on candy
crush.” In his lone expedition, Solo also mentioned how on occasions he experienced fear especially the time when he was off road in Croatia, and landed up in the wild with no human in sight except for wild animals. In his next expedition, Solo plans to travel through Africa. “After experiencing all these, now I am more open to places where I can learn new things. Africa is the hub of innovations at the moment. Learn, experience life and share these experiences,” he says.
The need to conserve and increase the population of Mithun in Nagaland from the existing numbers of 35, 000 plus was stressed on today at the Mithun Mela cum Regional Livestock Show held in Saptiqa under Zunheboto district. Mithun is the state animal of Nagaland and featured in the state logo. Recently, Nagaland Governor, PB Acharya had also called for efforts to increase the animal’s population up to at least a lakh in the state. Today’s Mithun mela brought several Mithun farmers together to showcase the wealth and pride of Mithuns and its benefits in boosting the rural economy. The Mela aims to increase awareness regarding scientific methods of rearing, disease and opportunity for farmers to exchange views and update technical skills, said Parliamentary Secretary for Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, S Chuba Longkumer.
Parliamentary Secretaries, S Chuba Longkumer and Er. Picto with others during the Mithun Mela at Saptiqa on March 16. (Morung Photo)
He said the department is giving its best to encourage the Mithun farmers and has already assisted over 130 Mithun rearing villages in the state. Longkumer said since time immemorial, the Mithun has been deeply rooted in the life of Nagas. In all important social events, ceremonies, in the barter trade etc, the number of Mithuns used was considered a social standing. Parliamentary Secretary for Law & Justice and SIRD, Er. Picto meanwhile made an appeal to the department to spontaneously assist Mithun projects in Saptiqa area. There are about 250 Mithuns in Saptiqa area. “I own six Mithun. It is
beneficial to rear Mithun as a single Mithun fetches upto Rs. 1 lakh,” said Shitokhe Awomi of Zhevishe village who won second prize in the best bull category. “Mithun rearing is viable here and I will continue to engage in it,” said Niheto of Shena Old village who too owns six Mithun. He owns a Mithun weighing 300-400 kgs. Appreciating the government for organizing the mela, Niheto, the winner in the best bull category requested the government to continue to assist the Mithun farmers. MK Mero, Commissioner and Secretary for Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services informed that the state has a shortfall
of meat production. The state, he added spends Rs 231 crore annually on import of livestock with Rs 92 crore on pork alone. Stating that the department had set a target to attain self sufficiency in livestock production by 2025, he called upon the people to increase the livestock production. He assured that the department will continue to assist Mithun farmers in the state. Dr. Abhijit Mitra, Director, ICAR- NRC on Mithun, Medziphema meanwhile said that the Mithun does not destroy forests; rather it helps the forest to grow better. He encouraged the people of Saptiqa area to rear more Mithuns and gain maximum benefit from it. He also encouraged Mithun farmers to conserve the biggest and healthiest Mithuns for breeding purpose. Dr. IP Khala, Director, Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services also spoke during the occasion. A Mithun herd display was also held at Ustomi and Shena old/new village. The programme was jointly organized by the Animal Husbandry & Veterinary Services, Nagaland and ICAR- National Research Centre on Mithun, Medziphema.
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FriDAY 17•03•2017
NAGALAND
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
(LEFT) A woman farmer tends to a jhum field as fire clears away the last remnants of vegetation to ashes in Wokha district. (RIGHT) A JCB excavator is seen digging out soil from a freshly burnt jhum field, a traditional farming practice, some kilometers away from Wokha town. (Photo by Imti Longchar)
Major inferno at Lazami kills 80 yrs old
Lazami, march 16 (Dipr): In a major inferno on March 15 at Lazami village under Pughoboto Sub-Division, an eighty years old man identified as Akhalu was charred to death and six houses including the building of the village youth organization were burned down affecting several
families. The fire was dozed off by the villagers averting further damage. The District Administration and police rushed to the spot to take stock of the situation. However the cause of the fire could not be ascertained till the time of filing the report.
SHGs to have single database with unique identity
Kohima, march 16 (mExN): Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission concludes two days of intensive training for key professionals from the District and Resource Block Mission Units on Transaction based MIS (TBMIS) at the State Office Kohima and field test of the tablet based MIS with the SHGs at Phesema Village, Jakhama Block, Kohima District on March 14 and 15. The application designed and developed by Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana –National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), MoRD focus on eSHG and eTransaction component. eSHG brings all SHGs to a single
Nagaland State Rural Livelihoods Mission rolls out Tablet based-Transaction MIS at village Level
database with unique identity of SHG and its members; and ensures there is no duplication of membership in multiple SHGs. eTransactions facilitates instant capturing of transactions made by SHGs and its member; maintain fair and correct manual books of records; grading of SHG to monitor the health of the SHG and thereby enable direct access to financial services/ assistance from formal Financial Institutions/Government; monitoring and
rating of SHG by higher level community institutions, viz, Village Level Organisations(VLO)/Federations on regular interval; to show capability/ ability of poor women towards thrift and credit and facilitate access of financial services by sharing transactions with credit Bureau; and to perform eAudit and reconcile books of records. The application can be accessed through three modes- My SHG App in tablet; online Application; and Desktop Based appli-
cation (offline). The transaction system will initially aim to cover all SHGs in all the 9 Resource Blocks in 9 Districts with the help of trained Community Data Entry Operator (CDEO) in line with communitization objectives of the Mission. The CDEO are members from VLOs having minimum qualification with basic arithmetic skills. Organically 1238 Villages across Nagaland will be covered under the fold of this transaction system by 2025. It was stated in a press re-
lease that Addl Secretary, RD & Mission Director, NSRLM, Athel O. Lotha emphasized the importance of TBMIS and need for systematic and gradual communitization, and that its’ use by community institutions (VLO/ Federations) would help in effectively monitoring and supporting the SHGs in the state. It will also facilitate convergence and diversify fund base through access to various entitlements. The training was facilitated by Chief Operating Officer (Programs), M. Rollan Lotha; State Program Manager (M&E/MIS), Imonenla Imkong Phom; and Program Manager (MIS), Renvungo Murry.
School for a new breed of missionaries Prog on floriculture at Kohima College Harvest School of Missions in Nagaland from April 1-30
Dimapur, march 16 (mExN): Iris Global, a dedicated Christian mission organization, founded by Rolland and Heidi Baker in partnership with AHA (Asia Harvest Alliance) a network of churches and ministries will be conducting a missions’ school under the banner Harvest School of Missions. This will be a residential school for 30 days from April 1 to 30. The resource persons are all from Iris Ministry and their associate ministries. Iris Global and Iris missionaries Iris Global (previously Iris Ministries) is a holistic ministry that began in 1980, undertaking small evangelistic street drama teams to Asia on short-term mission trips. The emphasis then was the creative presentation of the Gospel, and the ministry grew greatly. But they were so impacted by the condition of the poor that led to the changing of direction drastically, "to stop for the one and prove the love of God by first addressing the temporal needs of the broken and humble, the least of these.” The ministry focused on the bottom of society rather than the top. In 1995 Rolland and Heidi came to Mozambique, Africa, starting with street beggar children in 1995, the ministry saw a people movement spread across the ten provinces of
Mozambique. The Bakers have concentrated their ministry in Africa ever since. As charities in many countries, Iris missionaries are founding new bases on mission fields around the world, and one-third of the time Rolland and Heidi travel and minister at
churches and conferences wherever the Holy Spirit leads them. Harvest School of Missions, Dimapur Harvest School of Missions, Dimapur, is the fruit of Kingdom Invasion India conference held from January 28 to 31, 2016 in Dimapur where Heidi Baker was the main resource. The school aims to train a new breed of missionaries being released across the earth, transparent saints, with oversized hearts, beating in rhythm with the heart of their Bridegroom King Jesus, carrying His glory across the earth. Fearless, laid-down lovers that know a love that has no boundaries, and are ready to run into the darkest places of the earth and bring in the lost, the
dying, the poor and the broken. Registration form and fee The venue for the school is Life Spring Corner, a popular retreat centre in Dimapur. The registration fee is Rs. 8000/- Forms for registrations are available in the list given below: Dimapur: Kingdom Culture Church, The Jam Tree, 2nd Floor, Thongo Enclave, Duncan Road. 9436008454, World Impact Community Church 2½ Mile Near NRL Petrol Pump Dimapur 8575315993 Fathers House Church, West City, Level 3, DC Court Junction. 8974645409 The Warehouse House No 231, Duncan Road, Opp Cornerstone Lane, 2nd Floor, Above Sophia Girls Home 9089661247 The Lighthouse Church, Opp SETAM Nagaland University. 9774049958 Chumukedima: Life Square Ministries, 8415925371 Kohima: Faith Harvest Church Red Cross Building. 9436017869 Mokokchung: Christ Church, 8731918363 Mon: Grace Family Ministry, Cafe Amore Tinali, Sonari Road. 8413099324
Participants at the one day training cum demonstration programme on floriculture held at Kohima College on March 15.
Kohima, march 16 (mExN): One day training cum demonstration programme on floriculture was held at Kohima College, Kohima, in collaboration with Directorate of Horticulture, under RUSA Vocationalization Scheme on March 15. The programme was chaired by Nohol Rhetso, Coordinator, RUSA and Associate Professor, Kohima College, Kohima. Kevingonu Rose, Assistant Profeessor, Kohima College, Kohima as recorder and Vice-Principal Thinuokhrienuo, delivered the welcome note. Eluba, Assistant Horticulture Officer gave a brief introduction For more information and queries appli- on horticulture, Watila Longkumer from cants may call 9436008454, 8415925371. North Bengal Floriculture, stressed on the
scopes, concepts and prospects of floricultural, Euorica Liya Garod from ZOPAR, did PPT on lilium,. Abhuroop Mitra from KF Bioplant, Pvt. Ltd., did PPT on oportunites and marketing of jelbera, Pranab Banerjee, Zonal Development Manager-East from Agrinos Pvt. Ltd., delivered a lecture on cultural practices of floriculture. Kohima College Principal Dr. Watijungshi in a press release stated that five resource personals, faculty, staff and students attended the programme. The closing remark and certificate distribution was conducted by Dziesebeinuo Yhome, Assistant Professor and convener, Friends of Nature Club, Kohima College, Kohima.
Call to attend teachers training on peace building
St. John Higher Sec Res School, Dimapur
Dimapur, march 16 (mExN): On March 18, Peace Channel will be organizing a teachers training on peace building at Peace Channel Conference Hall, Bishop House Dimapur from 09:00 am to 01:00 pm. Rev. Fr. T.C Joseph Sdb, Principal Bosco College of Teachers Education and Martha Caceres from Liverpool University U.K. will be the resource persons. Peace Channel family invites the presence of all the teachers
from various schools who are associated with Peace Channel and also those schools who wish to start peace club in their institutions to attend the training. Intending person(s) or institution(s) who would like to be trained on different modules of fundamentals of peace building, inner peace and different skills in teaching can submit their name to peacechannel05@gmail.com on or before March 17 or contact 943626043, 8974522856 for more information.
Peace Channel has been working in promoting peace and harmonious living among children and youth for last ten years. “We have been not only educating the children and youth on cognitive and kinetic skill development but also we have been stressing on the affective dimension of our young buds to be positively transformed, to live in peace with all by loving and not hating,” said a press release from the Peace Channel desk. “Thus peace channel is plan-
ning train volunteers, schools and colleges teachers on Peace building, how to introduce and maintain Peace Clubs in our communities and institutions to equip our young minds to live in peace with oneself, family, institutions and community,” it added. Peace Channel is a secular movement striving to work for lasting peace in society by transforming the culture of violence in to a culture of peace and nonviolence in the minds of children and youth.
Small Industrial Bank of India conducts workshop
Kohima, march 16 (mExN): Small Industrial Bank of India conducted a workshop at the Conference hall of the Directorate of Industries and Commerce, Kohima on March 15. The workshop was attended by General Managers of all district industries centre and entrepreneurs from various fields. It was chaired by Project Manager, Er. Kenyune Lorin. After a brief welcome speech by Director of Industries I. Bendangliba, the Manager of SIDBI, S. Pauminthang Gangte gave the presentation on Credit Guarantee Scheme and Stand up India. The Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGS) was launched by the Government of India (GOI) to
Section of gathering attending the workshop conducted by Small Industrial Bank of India at Kohim on March 15.
make available collateral-free credit to the Micro and Small Enterprise Sector. Both existing and new enterprises are eligible to be covered under the Scheme. The Ministry of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises, Govt. of India
and Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), established a Trust named Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) to implement the Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Micro and Small Enterprises. S.
Pauminthang Gangte urged the officers and entrepreneurs to avail these Schemes. The workshop concluded with vote of thanks by Er Temsulong Jamir, Additional Director, Industries and Commerce.
Friday 17•03•2017
NORTH-EAST 3
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
Action sought against landlord Assam's Devadasi dance experiences a slow revival for assaulting NE student ItaNagar, march 16 (IaNS): Arunachal Pradesh Governor P.B. Acharya and Chief Minister Pema Khandu on Thursday shot off letters to their Karnataka counterparts seeking legal action against the landlord for assaulting Higio Gungtey, an undergraduate student. The 22-year-old Gungtey, a fourth-semester student of Christ University in Bengaluru, was allegedly assaulted by his landlord Hemanth Kumar on March 6 over the usage of water. He was also forced to lick his landlord house owner's shoes for using excessive water. Acharya, who had a telephonic talk with his counterpart Vajubhai Rudabhai Vala, said such irresponsible and uncivilized behaviour of a few needed to be condemned by all. "It is against the very spirit
of national character," the Arunachal Governor said and requested Vala to give special attention towards these problems and challenges of students from the NE. Acharya also directed Karnataka Chief Secretary Subhash Chnadra Khuntia to take immediate and strong action against the culprits. "A criminal case under the provision of SC/ ST act may also be initiated against the culprits," he demanded. Acharya, who also met Gungtey's relatives at Raj Bhavan, spoke to the boy's parents Higio Tama and Higio Yame, who are in Bengaluru to meet their son and take further steps. Chief Minister Pema Khandu also shot off a letter to his Karnataka counterpart Siddaramaiah requesting his personal intervention in punishing the culprit.
Khandu specifically noted in his letter that though several charges were filed against the culprit, Hemanth Kumar, a lawyer by profession, had managed to obtain anticipatory bail. The Chief Minister drew Siddaramaiah's attention to the fact that every year, thousands of students from Arunachal Pradesh go to Karnataka, particularly Bengaluru, for higher and technical education. While pointing that these students face racial discrimination in one or other form, Khandu asserted that such discrimination ought to be negated in every possible way. "I would therefore seek your personal intervention in the present case to ensure that the culprit is punished according to the law of the land and justice is delivered to the victim and his family members."
guwahatI, march 16 (IaNS): In a small town called Pathsala, about 60 km from this principal town of Assam, a mission has been underway for more than half a century. The task at hand is not easy -- revival of the Nati dance of India's outlawed Devadasi tradition. Even then, the man behind the mission, Dilip Kakati, is trudging along in his "lonely journey" to restore the lost glory of this ancient dance form of Assam. Assam's Devadasi dance is a 1,000-year-old tradition, prevalent since the 7th century when the Devadasi system was in place. Girls were offered to Saiva, Sakta and Vaishnava temples to dance as part of a daily ritual. Ancient texts like the Kalika Puran and Jogitantra carry references to this ritualistic dance practice. Kakati says that in those times, Devadasis -- also
known as Natis in the local language -- used to remain unmarried while living with their families and attending to the temple services. The Devadasi dance's fall from glory happened around the 17th century when there were repeated foreign invasions and royal patronage receded -forcing the sacred temple dancers into prostitution for survival. By the early 20th century, the British had abolished the system in India. "In the early 1950s, Ratnakanta Talukdar of Pathsala decided to revive the forgotten Nati dance tradition. He did not belong to any temple dancer's family. He was an outsider, but under the guidance of the legendary Kalaguru Vishnu Rabha, he dived into this revival mission and found the last two surviving Natis, Kaushalya Devi and Royabala Devi," Kakati said.
The Natis had very faint memories of the dance they had performed once upon a time, and from what they could remember, a 10-minute performance was put together. But the next challenge was finding young girls whose families would allow them to perform the stigmatised dance form. But Talukdar was successful -- he found four girls, one of whom was Dilip Kakati's sister. "That is how I got involved in the Devadasi dance revival mission," the 61-year-old flag-bearer says. The brother-sister duo was at the receiving end of societal rebuke, but they were undeterred. The revival mission had begun. "When he (Ratnakanta Talukdar) passed away in 1980, the responsibility fell on my shoulders to carry on the mission," he said. Ever since, Kakati and his troupe of seven members have been perform-
ing the Nati dance on stage in various cultural programmes. As he trains the Devadasi dancers, it is obvious that acceptance of this form is no longer the big challenge. "The challenge now is propagating the pure form of Nati dance," he said. According to Kakati, over the years, Nati dance has found other supporters who have been propagating a "remixed" version of the dance form. "There is a Guwahatibased artist, also from Pathsala, who, along with his troupe, has been performing Nati dance across India. He asked me to join him on several occasions but I found a lot of differences in his dance form... it seems to have been tweaked to suit modern tastes," Kakati said. "No matter how lonely my journey may be, I will propagate only the purest form of Nati dance, the
one that was painstakingly put together from the memories of the original Natis. But I wish the state government extended some support in preserving this dance form," he lamented. Kakati's troupe members -- the "khol" (drum) player, the one who plays the "taal" (cymbal), the dancers, including his sister -- are a dedicated lot but he is still worried about the dance form's survival after he is gone. "My children are not as interested... it is therefore heartening when artistes like (Mumbaibased dancer) Prateesha Suresh give a platform for us to tell people about this tradition through discussions and performances." "I just hope that after I am gone, there will be someone who will be ready to carry on the beacon of the Nati dance in its pure form and help it regain its lost glory," he said.
BIG BOOK SALE Two IS suspects arrested in Manipur Families in Tripura affected by BIBleS BooKS MUSIC GIFTS The two were identified 9 and travelled through As- border fencing being rehabilitated Imphal, march 16 (IaNS): Assam Rifles have as Nazir Mohammad and sam and reached Dimapur 6-18 March 2017, 9:00 aM – 5:00 PM (Sunday Closed)
arrested two Islamic State suspects from a border town in Manipur, police sources said on Thursday. The arrests were made at a border checkpost at Khudengthabi along the Trans Asian Highway No 1 on March 14 when the suspects were proceeding towards Imphal from the border town of Moreh.
Abu Bakir who told police that they were from Tamil Nadu. The Assam Rifles personnel recovered 14 SIM cards and some handsets, besides Rs 75,130 in Indian currency and a huge amount in foreign currencies. The two told police that they left Kolkata on March
Mizoram govt presents tax-free surplus budget aIZawl, march 16 (ptI): Mizoram Finance Minister Lalsawta on Thursday presented a tax-free surplus budget for 2017-2018 amounting to Rs 8,803.10 crore. The surplus is Rs 331.07 crore, he said, adding that the it was possible with the revenue surplus of Rs 1,787.10 crore.
On the budget allocation on different sectors, the finance minister said among others Rs 750 crore were allocated for implementation of the New Economic Development Policy (NEDP). He said that Rs 239. 50 crore were earmarked for maintenance of roads while Rs 657.64 crore for roads.
railway station in Nagaland on March 10. They then came to Imphal from where they went to Moreh. They further told police that this was their second visit to Manipur. The police said they were investigating the real purpose of their visit and what they did in the border town.
WINGER AVAILABLE FOR
SCHOOL DUTY PiCk uP PoiNt:
Nepali Kashiram via Oriental-DC Court to Don Bosco Contact No- 7005605553
AFFIDAVIT Regd. No. 66(8)
Regd No: 110
DECLARATION
Date: 10/3/17
I, Shri. HoPESoN tHuPitoR Son of Chhiso Thupitor, aged about 22 years, resident of Bayavu Colony, District Kohima, Nagaland, do hereby solemnly affirm and declare an oath as follows:1. That I am a bonafide citizen of India hailing from the Pochury Naga Tribe. 2. That this Affidavit is made to declare that in my all my entire academic records and documents inadvertently and oversight my name has been entered and recorded as KWURI THUPITOR. 3. That I hereby declare that I Change/correct my name from KWURI THUPITOR and use HOPESON THUPITOR for all my Service records, official documents and records. 4. That the above mention name KWURI THUPITOR and HOPESON THUPITOR it refers to one and the same person. 5. That this affidavit shall stand as a piece of evidence for any rectification/ correction if any complications that may arise with regard to correction/Change of my Official name. 6. That this affidavit is signed and sworn before the competent authority declaring that my correct official name is `HOPESON THUPITOR' and henceforth it shall be used for all Service records, future references, official purposes and correspondence. Deponent
Solemnly sworn before me by the deponent on this the 10th March, 2017
Notary Public, kohima: Nagaland
I, Smt. Kikim of Jalukieram Village PO & PS Jalukie, Peren Dist. Nagaland hereby declare that the name Kikim and Seikim is of same person. I hereby declare that my correct name is kikiM and shall be used for all official purposes in the future. Deponent 1st Class Magistrate
LOST NOTICE I, John Walling am applying for a duplicate copy of LL.B V Semester Marksheet as I have lost it. Name: John Walling F/Name: Lt. Imtikumdang Walling Roll No: 141116 Regd. No: 115001107075 of 2010-11
TRANSFORMATION CRUSADE 2017 theme “Arise and Shine” Venue: kohima Local Ground: time: 4:30 PM
MARCH 17tH PRoGRAMME
Praise & Worship: James Basnet and Team
Leader: Mr. Vezopa Rhakho, Assoc. Pastor, CBCK Pianist: Miss Lozino Noswe Cantor: Mr. Vizozietuo Neo invocation & offertory Prayer: Mrs. Asenla Temsu, Principal Chandmari, HSS Speaker: Mr. Velavoyi Keyho, Pastor, Phezoucha Nagamese Baptist Church, Kohima.
NAGALAND PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION KOHIMA
Dated kohima the 16 March 2017 th
NOTIFICATION
NO.NPSC/EXAM/C-2/2013: The Commission in spite of various challenges continuously strives to provide a candidate friendly environment to all aspirants and also expects all candidates to maintain some degree of decorum. In the recently concluded CTSE 2016 Exam held from 25th February to 4th March 2017, candidate bearing Roll No 4848 conducted himself in a very unruly manner. The Commission after thoroughly deliberating on the issue in its meeting held on 06/03/2017 decided to debar the said candidate from appearing any examination conducted by the Commission for a period of 3(three) years under Rule 30(A) of the Nagaland Public Service Commission (State Civil & Other Services) Recruitment Rules 2008, 6th Amendment, 2011, for harassing and threatening the Commission’s officials without reason whatsoever. Sd /-kHRuPi SotHu, Secretary Nagaland Public Service Commission, kohima
agartala, march 16 (IaNS): Families affected due to the construction of a fence along the IndiaBangladesh border in Tripura are being rehabilitated, a minister said here on Thursday. "Due to the fencing, 8,730 families were affected as their houses, homestead, farm land and various others properties have been either encroached or have been relocated," Revenue and PWD Minister Badal Choudhury said. "Of the 8,730 affected families, 8,576 families have already been rehabilitated and remaining
are being given permanent settlement," he added. The Indian government, has so far completed fencing of 773 km out of the state's 856 km international border. The minister said that houses, homestead, farm land and various others properties of a large number of families have fallen on the outer side of the fence, resulting in numerous problems including uncertainty and insecurity. The Indian side of the International Border passes through West Bengal (2,216 km), Assam (263 km), Meghalaya (443
OBJECTION NOTICE Dated Peren the 14th March 2017
NO. PRN/JUD-5/PT-1/2016/456/ Smti. Ruth of Jalukie, has applied for issue of Succession Certificate declaring that her husband Late Watinungsang has expired on 24/02/17. Public are hereby invited to file claims / objection within 30(thirty) days w.e.f. date if publication in local papers. If no objection is received from the public within the stipulated time, the succession certificate shall be issued in favour of the applicant. (ZARENtHuNG EZuNG) Deputy Commissioner, Peren: Nagaland.
Regd.No: 3309/17
AFFIDAVIT
Date: 07/03/2017
I, Shri. ViSHito SuMi S/o. Yevuto Sumi permanent of South Point Colony, Zunheboto, Nagaland do hereby solemnly affirm and declare oath as under:1. That I am a bonafide citizen of India belonging to Sumi Community resident of the above mentioned address. 2. That my name is inadvertently recorded as ViSHito SEMA in my service book. But my actual name is Vishito Sumi. 3. That the above mentioned names Vishito Sumi and Vishito Sema are one and same person which is referred to me. 4. That from the date of this declaration, my name shall be used by the name as Vishito Sumi for all official purpose and legal proceedings and at all times and occasions. Deponent Solemnly affirm and declare before me by the deponent. Notary Public, Zunheboto: Nagaland
Regd.No: 3307/17
AFFIDAVIT
Date: 07/03/2017
I, Shri. kAkuGHA SuMi S/o. Itovi Sumio permanent of Tichipami Village and presently residing at DC. Hill Colony, Zunheboto, Nagaland do hereby solemnly affirm and declare oath as under:1. That I am a Govt. Employee as D/T under SDEO Zunheboto. 2. That my name is inadvertently recorded as Kakugha Sumi in my SBI Zunheboto Branch passbook bearing A/C No.11736634666, I Kakugha Sema in my PAN Card Kakugha Achumi in my service ID Card and Aadhaar Card, but my actual name is Kakugha which is recorded in my service book and all other official document. 3. That the above mention names Kakugha, I Kakugha Sema, Kakugha Achumi and Kakugha Sumi are one and same person which is referred to me. 4. That, from the date of this declaration my name shall be used as Kakugha Sumi for all official purpose and legal proceeding and at all times and occasions. Deponent
Solemnly affirm and declare before me by the deponent.
Notary Public, Zunheboto: Nagaland
Whereas application under Succession Act 1925 for grant of Succession Certificate for the estate of Late Madhu Banik (deceased) has been filed by Shri. Rajesh Banik (Son) R/o H. No: GBC – 79 Westyard Colony, to draw her Bank Acct, landed property etc, who expired on 7/05/14, covered by Patta No. 538, Dag No.573, Block No. 7 Notice is hereby given that any person having interest in the administration of the estate of the said deceased, may if he/she so desire may appear in this court within 30 days, on the said day of 08.4.17 Given under the hand and seal of the court this 07 day of March, 2017.
KUDA ‘B’ FARM UNIT
NAGALAND LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY SECRETARIAT
Near Greenwood School Dimapur
For Sale
Day Old Kroiler & Broiler Chicks Vaccinated Kroiler & Broiler Chicks Poultry Feeds & Pig Feeds Contact - 7005055266 Tender No. CM/AMC/UTS-PRS/TSK Date: 10.03.2017 Open Tender in sealed cover are invited for the following work: Name of the work: Annual Maintenance of Computer Peripherals of Passenger Reservation System and Unreserved Ticketing System over Tinsukia Division, N.F. Railway for the period of 2 years. Tender value: `10,24,437/-; Earnest Money Deposit: `20,490/-; Cost of tender Document: `2,000/-; Validity of offers: 120 days Tender document can be had from the office of the Divisional Commercial Manager/Tinsukia from 10.00 hrs. to 17.00 hrs on all working days from 11-03-2017 upto 12.00 hrs of 10-04-2017. Tender can be dropped from 10.00 hrs. of 27-03-2017 to 15.00 hrs. of 10-04-2017 during office working hours in office of the Assistant Commercial Manager/ Tinsukia & Dibrugarh and Tender will be opened on 11-04-2017 at 11.00 hrs. in the chamber of the Assistant Commercial Manager/ Tinsukia. Details of this tender notice & Tender documents are available at www.nfr.indianrailways.gov.in Divisional Commercial Manager, Tinsukia "Serving Customers with a smile"
Size = (W) 4cm × (L) 11 cm = 44 SqCm
NAGALAND PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION KOHIMA
No. NPSC/CoN-35/2009
VENUE
km), Tripura (856 km) and Mizoram (318 km). India started construction of the fence and flood lighting along the 4,096km India-Bangladesh border around 20 years ago, to curb cross-border movement of terrorists, stop infiltration and check various border crimes, smuggling and illegal trades. The mountainous terrain, dense forests, riverine and other hindrances make the borders porous and vulnerable, enabling militants, illegal immigrants and intruders cross over without any major hurdles.
Dated kohima, the 16th March, 2017
NOTIFICATION
NPSC/CON-35/2009:: In partial modification of the earlier Notification of even no. dated 11/3/2017 wherein the dates for the written examination of the NCS, NPS, NSS & Allied Services 2016 which has been scheduled to be held from 10th to12th April, 2017 is hereby rescheduled to be held from 25th – 27th April, 2017. The reschedulement has been necessitated due to the unprecedented situation the state had undergone and in view of the “DEMAND” made by the PSAN. It may further be notified that holding examination also depends on certain factors beyond the control of the Commission and therefore all concern may kindly bear the same in mind. Sd/- (kHRuPi SotHu) Secretary Nagaland Public Service Commission, kohima.
OM Books
City Tower Junction, Circular Road, Dimapur, Nagaland Ph: 03862-229370 All major Debit/Credit cards are accepted
SUCCESSION
Addl. Deputy Commissioner Dimapur: Nagaland
KOHIMA
No: AS/ESt174/2014/Pt/1350
Dt: kohima the 15th March, 2017
ADVERTISEMENT
With reference to the Advertisement NO: AS/ ESTT/4/2014Pt/1204, Dated 28th February, 2017, the candidates who have applied for the post of Assistant Legal Officer, Legal Assistant, Assistant Transport Officer & Sound Assistant are hereby informed to collect their call letter on 16th & 17th March, 2017 during office hours and interview will be held on 18th & 19th March, 2017 from 9:00 A.M onwards. Sd/- N. BENJAMiN NEWMAi CoMMiSSioNER & SECREtARY
4
friDAY 17•03•2017
nagaland
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
Farmers attend training on jhum improvement and countering climate change in agriculture LongLeng, March 16 (Mexn): ICAR Research Complex for NEH Nagaland Centre and KVK Longleng jointly organized farmers’ awareness programme cum training on ‘Jhum improvement for food security of tribal farmers through sustainable intervention’ and ‘strategies to counter climate change in agriculture and allied sectors’ on March 8 at Hukphang village, Longleng district. A press note informed that about 53 farmers from Hukphang and Lingtak villages participated in the event, which started with the awareness cum training on jhum improve-
ment. Dr. LK Baishya, Senior Scientist, ICAR Nagaland Centre elaborated to the farmers about the sustainable options to enhance the productivity of the jhum land. He also emphasized on adopting market-led farming for increasing the income of the farmers. Dr. Manoj Kumar, Subject Matter Specialist, KVK Longleng highlighted the initiatives of the KVK for jhum improvement. Meanwhile, Programme Coordinator, Dr. KL Meena gave detailed information about the role of KVK for the development of farming community of the district.
The programme on ‘strategies to counter climate change in agriculture and allied sectors’ was organized to sensitize the farmers about the challenges in agriculture and allied sectors in the changing climatic scenario and role of Agromet Advisory services in improving the agriculture. Dr. LK Baishya educated the farmers about the effects of climate change in agriculture and livelihood. Dr. Manoj Kumar spoke on adaptation strategies for agriculture and allied sector under climate change. Romen Sharma, Scientist ICAR, Nagaland Centre informed the farmers
about the importance of Agromet Advisory services of GKMS project which gives location specific farm advisory services on agriculture and allied sectors based on the weather forecast and crop information available from the districts of the state. He insisted the farmers to take advantages of the mobile SMS services for better planning of their agricultural operations. He concluded with a request to all the farmers to get registered with the SMS service by providing their mobile numbers to ICAR Nagaland Centre. Scientists from ICAR Nagaland Centre and KVK
Longleng staffs also visited farmers’ field and interacted with the farmers on March 7 and 8 at Pongching and Yongam villages. The farmers were given awareness on promotion of maize and groundnut for enhancing the production and productivity of livestock in Nagaland. Dr. LK Baishya highlighted the importance of quality feeds in piggery and poultry farming and encouraged the farmers to adopt maize and groundnut for self sufficiency in quality feed for promotion of livestock farming as the state is deficit of about 80 per cent in meat production.
mgm higher secondary school principal felicitates winners and participants of the interschool painting competition for girl students as part of swachh shakti week organized by Phed at Chh school on march 14. nikita singh (Class-10) of mgmhss bagged 2nd prize, while others received cash prizes.
Medziphema dept co- Financial literacy camp held in Losami phek, March 16 (Mexn): The Chakhe- by the banks to the general public. During ordination meeting held sang Women Welfare Society in collabora- the programme, bankers shared the imporMedzipheMa, March 16 (dipr): Medziphema Sub-Division Departmental Co-ordination meeting was held on March 15 at ADC’s office, Medziphema. The meeting, chaired by ADC Medziphema, Sara S. Jamir, discussed issues on departmental land encroachment and resolved to abstain from issuing No Objection Certificates (NOC) for any departmental land allotment. The ADC also urged the officers to encourage the public to judiciously use the compensation money acquired from the ‘four lane’ and ‘railway’ projects. She requested the concerned departments for improvement of power supply and repair of roads. Problem of water supply was discussed where the ADC highlighted that proposal for the same has been submitted under NEC and would be taken up in the next DPDB meeting. Further CTC and PHED Department were asked to present departmental activities report in the next meeting.
Birthday Greeting Dearest Evity! “A birthday is incomplete without a toast, and here’s mine for you – As a mother, you’re the sweetest. As a woman, you’re the prettiest. As a wife, you’re the best. Good times or bad, happy or sad… just one look into your eyes is all it takes to make me smile.”
tion with the Nagaland State Co-operative Bank Ltd., Phek Branch conducted financial literacy camp on March 14 at Losami village. Supported under FIF managed by NABARD, the programme aimed to create awareness among the masses regarding various financial products and services offered
Livestock vaccinated in Chumoukedima Village chuMoukediMa, March 16 (Mexn): The Veterinary department, Dimapur organized a vaccination camp at Chumoukedima Village on March 14, where more than 500 livestock were vaccinated free of cost. The camp was held led by Dr. L Temsu, Joint Director and Dr. Imomeren with more than 20 doctors and
BJP Longleng unit resolves
LongLeng, March 16 (Mexn): The Longleng district unit of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has decided that the party ticket in the State assembly election 2018 will be issued in consultation with the local committee. The decision was taken during the 4th executive meeting of the unit held at BJP head office, Longleng district on March 11. The meeting also decided that the local committee will be Happy Birthday Elomi! formed at the earliest, according to a press release from B. Chemben Phom, G/S & From your Loving Hubby. Organizer, BJP Longleng unit.
leisure
CROSSWORD # 3888
SUDOKU
Answer Number # 3883
staff, informed a press release from Chumoukedima Village Council. The council said it was impressed by the doctors and staff of the Department, who went home to home to help the villagers. It thanked all doctors and staff for their help “which would go a long way in protecting and saving the livestock in the village.”
32 Assam Rifles under the aegis of Headquarters IGAR (N) conducted a medical camp at Hokhezhe village in Dimapur district on March 11, where a team of Assam Rifles’ medical staff provided treatment and medicines to 397 locals - 79 males, 105 females and 213 children. the participants were also educated on importance of vaccination, health & hygiene and common first aid methods, a press release from AR informed.
Youths motivated to join Indian Army diMapur, March 16 (Mexn): A motivational lecture on joining the Indian Army was conducted under the aegis of 164 Inf Bn (TA) (H&H) NAGA by Maj Awomi. Col MK Singh, Director Recruiting, Army Recruiting Office Rangapahar also spoke at the lecture held at Rich Mount School, Dimapur on March 14. He highlighted various job avenues in the Indian Army and required standards to join such as passing written exams, physical tests and medical examination. A total of 70 young boys, girls and teachers attended the lecture and clarified their queries.
35 Assam Rifles under the aegis of HQ IGAR (N) distributed food items to the children of Eklavya School at Tizit on March 14. A lecture was also organized by Assam Rifles for the children to encourage them to set goals and study hard to achieve them, said a press release from AR. The Assam Rifles Company Commander also urged the children to excel in their talents in sports and music to open new avenues of success.
std code: 03862
DiMaPUR ACROSS 1. . Pervert 5. Q-Tip 9. Yucky 13. Beige 14. Exudes 16. Not stereo 17. Throat-clearing sound 18. Steam bath 19. Ship’s front 20. Deposits of ore 22. Rataplans 24. Bothers 26. Hinder 27. Incite 30. Fundamentals 33. Chasten 35. Lacquer ingredient 37. Confederate soldier 38. Lyric poem 41. Directed 42. Panache 45. It protects a nut 48. A type of organic compound 51. Palatable 52. Jagged 54. See the sights 55. Consolidated 59. Dish 62. Decorative case 63. Dog-___ 65. At the peak of 66. “Your majesty” 67. Column of wood 68. Heredity unit 69. Stigma 70. Evasive 71. Border DOWN 1. Loyal (archaic) 2. Reflected sound 3. Praiseworthy 4. Arm bone 5. Mayday 6. Blue dye 7. Sky-blue
Simple Rules - Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through 9.
Game Number # 3885
tance of banking, savings, financial planning and various benefits available in the bank, informed a press release. The programme, facilitated by Zechete-u Nusory, had Imsunaro, DDM, NABARD Phek, Thepfulezo Sale, BM, and Kahoto Zhimo FO, NStCB Phek Branch as resource persons.
8. Deaden 9. Jeopardize 10. Daughter of Zeus and Demeter 11. Clove hitch or figure eight 12. Ouches 15. Brazilian dance 21. Three-handed card game 23. Headquarters 25. Anagram of “Ties” 27. Unit of land 28. Verify 29. Clairvoyant’s gift 31. Famous 32. Aroma 34. A very long period 36. Doing nothing 39. Fitting 40. French for “State” 43. Artist’s workroom 44. Ripped 46. “Cut that out!” 47. Cargo transport 49. Snouts 50. Break out 53. Creepy 55. To tax or access 56. Ear-related 57. Emanation 58. A small wooded hollow 60. Chinese mafia 61. Type of sword 64. Former North African rule
Answer to Crossword 3887
Anger ArCher bAker beet brAe Cement ChAllenge Choose Comfort dAnCe feArs first fleet flute follow grAve hello imAge
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lions lunk mirror month moot musiC never right rumor slAtes stAg struCture survivAl tomorrow totAl venture wheel where
D
std code: 03871
(formerly senapati)
Police station fire brigade
222246 222491
Civil hospital
232224
emergency
229529 229474
mh hospital
227930 231081
fire brigade
2222952
faith hospital
228846
naga hospital
2222916
shamrock hospital
228254
oking hospital
2243339
Zion hospital
231864 224117 227337
bethel nursing home
2224202
northeast shuttles
08974997923
KOHiMa
std code: 0370
228400
kohimA Ps/oCs Contact numbers
Police Traffic Control
232106
north Ps
east Police station
227607
west Police station
232181
south Ps
Cihsr (referral hospital)
242555 242533
Zubza Ps
Police Control room
dimapur hospital
224041 248011
131/228404
Airport indian Airlines
229366 242441 225212
tseminyu Ps
8575045507
Officer-in-Charge 8575045517 8575045505
kezocha Ps
nagaland multispecialty health & research Centre
248302, 09856006026
eden medical Centre
248288
C
Officer-in-Charge 8575045516
Officer-in-Charge 8575045515
232032, 231031
R
Chiephobozou Ps 8575045506
khuzama Ps
nikos hospital and research Centre
A
8575045508
Officer-in-Charge 8575045518
railway
E
8575045502
Officer-in-Charge 8575045520
Apollo hospital info Centre 230695/ 9402435652
S
8575045501
Officer-in-Charge 8575045510
Chumukedima fire brigade 282777
W
TaHaMZaM
8575045549
Officer-in-Charge 8575045538
H
women Cell
8575045509
Officer-in-Charge 8575045519 Control room
8575045500 (Emergency No. – 100)
FiRE STaTiONS
kohimA south: 0370-2222952/ 101 (O) 9402003086 (OC) kohimA north: 7085924114 (O) dimAPur: 03862-232201/ 101 (O) 9856156876 (OC) ChumukedimA: 7085982102 (O) 8732810051 (OC) wokhA: 03860-242215/101 (O) 8974322879 (OC) mokokChung: 0369-2226225/ 101 (O) 8415830232 (OC) Phek: 8414853765 (O) 8413822476(OC) Zunheboto: 03867-280304/ 101 (O) 9436422730 (OC) tuensAng: 8414853766 (O) 9856163601 (OC) mon: 03869-251222/ 101 (O) 9862130954 (OC) kiphire: 8414853767 (O) 9436261577 (OC) Peren: 7085189932 (O) 9856311205 (OC) longleng: 7085924113 (O) 9862414264 (OC) we4 women helPline 08822911011 WOMEN helPline 181 CHiLD welfAre Committee Toll free No. 1098 childline
MOKOKCHUNG
std code: 0369
Police station 1 Police station 2 Police station kobulong Police station tuli Police station Changtongya Police station mangkolemba Civil hospital
9485232688 9485232689 9485232690 9485232693 9485232694 9485232695 2226216
woodland nursing home
2226263
hotel metsüpen (tourist lodge) 2226373/ 2229343
CURRENCY NOTES buY (rs) sell (rs)
us dollars sterling Pound hong kong dollar Australian dollar singapore dollar Canadian dollar Japanese Yen euro thai baht korean won uAe dirham (Aed) Chinese Yuan
65.21 80.9 8.13 50.03 46.34 49.68 57.81 68.8 1.81 0.0558 17.18 9.2
68.15 84.81 9.06 52.50 48.63 52.11 61.07 72.14 2.02 0.0622 19.14 10.24
friday 17•03•2017
NAGALAND
Nine held for extortion this week: Dimapur Police Dimapur, march 16 (mExN): A total of 9 persons were arrested during the last 7 days in Dimapur for various crimes related to extortion in Dimapur, a police official said today. The Anti Extortion Teams (AET), which made the arrests, has been placed for “alert and surveillance” over different commercial areas in Dimapur , the Addl. Dy Commissioner of Police/PRO Dimapur said in a press release. According to the PRO release, the first arrest was made on March 9, when one one person identified as HimatoYepthomi of Viyelho village, Zunheboto was arrested by the AET while he was caught “extorting money” from the trucks plying in the
bricks kiln around Bamunpukhuri area, Dimapur. Money in cash and incriminating documents in the forms of leaflets belonging to the NSCN (IM) was seized from his possession, it said. On March 10, three persons were arrested by the AET from Khermahal area, Dimapur while they were carrying out extortion activities. The police identified them as AthongbaSangtam of Singrao village, Kiphire, reportedly a Captain of the NNC(NA); ZhaitoSumi of Hoishe village; Khunu and Sangtam of Pholongri Village, Kiphire. One person identified as Lukheyi Yepthomi of Khumishi village was also arrested by the AET on March 11 while he was “col-
lecting taxes in the name of the NPGs” from various commercial vehicles around Doshehe Market area, Dimapur. Alferd Sumi, reportedly a Leacy of the NPGN, was also arrested by the AET around Metro Hospital area, Dimapur on March 13 while he was “extorting money from the business establishments.” Again on March 15, Bokito Sumi; reportedly a Sergeant of the NSCN(R) was arrested while “collecting illegal taxes from the commercial establishments” falling under West Police Station jurisdiction. The last arrest was made in March 16, when two persons were arrested by the AET while collecting illegal taxes from busi-
ness establishment at Murgipatti area, Dimapur. They were identified as Heyito Aye, reportedly a Major of the FGN; and Atoshe Murru, reportedly a Leacy of the FGN. Both were residents of Thilixu. Money in cash and incriminating documents was seized from their possession, the police said. The Dimapur Police further reminded citizens and the business communities that an active “Crime Helplines” has been functional to receive reports and complaints. Call +91 7085055048 or +91 7085055049 for assistance or, contact the Officers directly by referring to the directory provided in www.dimapurpolice.in , the police informed.
NPSC reschedules written exam CEO of Special Purpose Dimapur, march 16 (mExN): In partial modification of its earlier notification, the NPSC today said that the dates for the written examination of the NCS, NPS, NSS & Allied Services 2016 which was scheduled to be held from April 10-12 has been rescheduled to April 25-27. The reschedulement has been necessitated due to the unprecedented situation the state had undergone and in view of the “demand” made by the PSAN, Nagaland Public Service Commission said in a new notification issued by its Secretary Khrupi Sothu. It may further be notified that holding examination also depends on certain factors beyond the control of the Commission and therefore all concern may kindly bear the same in mind, NPSC added.
debar one candidate from appearing any examination conducted by the Commission for a period of 3(three) years for “harassing and threatening the Commission’s officials without reason whatsoever.” The candidate conducted himself in a very “unruly manner” during the recently concluded Combined Technical Service Examination (CTSE) 2016 Exam held from February 25 to March 4, NPSC informed. After thorough deliberation at its meeting held on March 6, the Commission has decided to take the action under Rule 30(A) of the Nagaland Public Service Commission (State Civil & Other Services) Recruitment Rules 2008, 6th Amendment, 2011, it added. The Commission further maintained that in spite of various challenges, it is continuously striving to provide a candidate NPSC debars candidate friendly environment to all aspifor three years Meanwhile, in another noti- rants and also expects “all candification, the NPSC informed that dates to maintain some degree of the Commission has decided to decorum.”
SBI conducts town hall meeting in Dimapur Transformation crusade nd Dimapur, march 16 (mExN): SBI, Dimapur gave the welcome ad- Dimapur”. He also encouraged and in Kohima enters 2 day To promote digital banking, the State dress and briefed the participants the urged the gatherings to use digital Bank of India, Regional Business Office, Dimapur in collaboration with the District Administration conducted a Town Hall Meeting at Don Bosco Hall, Dimapur on March 15. According to a press note received here, the meeting started with a key note address and introductory session by Besii Bosco, Chief Manager, Lead Bank ,SBI, RBO Dimapur while Thangboi Lunkim, Regional Manager,
purpose. He also stressed on importance of taking feedbacks from the customers for improving customer services, it said. James Swu, SDO (Civil), Dimapur shared concerns of the Government in creating digital awareness amongst all sections of the society and the initiatives of the District Administration in forming a campaign called “Digi
platforms which are more convenient, easy and user friendly, it added. Power point presentations on digital banking products of State Bank of India namely mobile wallet (Buddy), internet banking, SBI Pay (Unified Payment Interface of SBI), process of green pin generation etc were the main highlights of the digital awareness programme. The meeting ended with a vote of thanks by Chief Manager.
Assam Rifles sponsors meritorious students Dimapur, march 16 (mExN): A total of 12 students from various districts successfully completed two months coaching at Excel Coaching and Computer Centre, Dimapur on March 15 under an initiative by the Assam Rifles. The classes were planned to assist students for successfully appearing in competitive exams like UPSC exam for NDA/ CDS, Bank PO, Railways and SSC. The 32 Assam Rifles under aegis of Headquarters IGAR (N) initiated the coaching under a scholarships scheme to meritorious students from remote areas of the state with the objective of providing assistance to these students in realizing their dreams, the AR said in a press note. The classes terminated with a brief closing ceremony the students on March 15 where they were urged to continue their preparations and keep working hard to realise their destiny, it added.
NSCW to organise legal awareness progs Dimapur, march 16 (mExN): The Nagaland State Commission for Women in Collaboration with National Commission for Women (Delhi) will be organizing 1 (one) day Legal Awareness Programme on Human Trafficking in three districts in Nagaland. The schedules for the conference as are as follows: Zisaji Presidency College, Kiphire March 21, 10 AM; Sao Chang College, Tuensang, March 23 10 AM; and Yingli College, Longleng March 24, 10 AM. In this regard, NSCW Secretary Z. Nyusietho Nyuthe NCS in a press note has requested the concerned College Principals, Lecturers and students to participate in the programme. The invitees of these programmes will include all Tribal Hoho/ Women Hoho/ DB/ GB’s/ Association with at least 2 (two) representatives within the Headquarter, it added. The local police officers and Legal Aid Services officials will also be the Resource Persons in each seminar, it said
CondolenCe Messages Naga Women Federation, NNC condoles Dimapur, march 16 (mExN): The Naga Women Federation, NNC has conveyed its profound sorrow and shock over the sudden demise its colleague Besüno of Khonoma village, who passed away on March 13 in Kohima. In a condolence note, the Federation President Veducholu Lala said that late Besüno voluntarily sacrificed her life and served “the Nation” in the capacity of Treasurer of NWF and held the post till her last breath. Extending its heartfelt condolence to the bereaved family members and relatives of late Besüno, the Federation said that while untimely death is an irreparable loss and a vacuum difficult to fill up, her sacrificial service rendered shall “always remain alive in the history of the Naga Nation.” “May the Almighty God grant consolation to the bereaved family members, relatives and her dear ones. May the departed soul rest in peace,” it added.
Kohima, march 16 (Dipr): Smita Sarangi, IAS has been appointed as CEO of the Special Purpose Vehicle for implementation of the Smart City Mission with immediate effect. The officer shall also continue to hold her current charge. This was notified by the P&AR Department
Arms Licence sans UID illegal after March 31: DC Phek Dimapur, march 16 (mExN): The Deputy Commissioner of Phek in a notification today informed that the last date for exercise of National Digitalization of Arms Licence for Unique ID (UID) is March 31. All arms licence without the UID number after March 31 shall be declared “invalid” and the weapons against such cancelled licence shall be treated as “illegal weapons,” DC Phek Murohu Chotso said in the notification. The possession of such illegal weapon shall be punishable under India’s Arms Act, it added. In this connection, the public of Phek District are informed to comply with the notice in order to avoid “complication and legal liability against them” and register their respective arms licence for digitalization, it added.
DC Wokha cracks whips on smoking, sale of tobacco
WoKha, march 16 (Dipr): In exercise of the power conferred by section 4, 5, 6 and 7 of the cigarettes and other tobacco products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of the Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act 2003, Deputy Commissioner, Wokha Wezope Kenye has prohibited smoking in public places accessed by the general public, direct and indirect advertisement of Cigarettes and other tobacco products, sale of tobacco products to minors and within 100 yards of any educational institutions and mandatory depiction of pictorial Rev. neivotso neikha speaking at transformation crusade on health warning on every tobacco package in March 16. (Morung Photo) the interest of general public under Wokha district with immediate effect. The District our Correspondent we have build between us and Administration is also appointing Enforcing need a breakthrough. Through Officer from every Department to impose and Kohima | March 16 the Holy Spirit change will collect fine against the violators of the Act. A 12 day long 'Transformation come in one's life, he said. Crusade' entered second day He said we are not sticking here at Kohima Local Ground on the truth but on human resunder the theme “Arise and olution, he said. Shine” With all these happenings Speaking on second day, in our life and society, transRev. Neivotso Neikha, mis- formation and revival is the Dimapur, march 16 (mExN): The Sosion director North East In- need of an hour to bring a real ciety for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals dian Christian Revival Church change, he said. (SPCAs) Dimapur District unit will start encalled for urgent need for a real Jesus Christ, Holy Spirit rolment for annual membership at its office change in Nagaland has no denomination and this located in CVO office, Burma Camp from “Our churches today are in transformation crusade is one March 20. A press note issued by SPCAs Didanger as they focus more in platform to bring light and mapur Executive Secretary Marian Rao inrules, resolutions, formalities change in our lives, he added. formed that that the annual membership is Rs and has forgotten what God reMore than 5000 people 500 and its office opens thrice a week - Monally wants from us,” he said. from all walks of life attended day, Tuesday and Friday- from 9AM-3PM. All He said there is a conflict the 2nd day of the ongoing cru- animal lovers are invited to enroll along with 3 between us in all spheres of life sade. passport size photo (colour) and photocopy of and we need to do away with A special prayer was held either Pan Card , Aadhar Card or any other ID proof Certificate. the partition and the fencing for the sick people.
SPCAs enrollment drives starts from March 20
Health mela conducted at Longjang PHC moKoKchuNg, march 16 (mExN): A health mela was conducted at Longjang PHC Mokokchung on March 15 organised by District Health Society Mokokchung. The team was led by Dr. S. S Akaba Longchar CMO Mokokchung who was accompanied by Dr. Kibangkumba Dy. CMO, Programme Officers, Medical Officers, Staffs of different programmes, ICTC and NHM staffs informed a press release received here. A total number of 269 patients availed free medical services. Dr. Ademla Tinu DGO IMDH Mokokchung and the team of nurses from IMDH conducted three Lap ST and one IUCD insertion. Mobile ICTC team from Mokokchung conducted testing for HIV after proper
Lost and Found One SBI ATM card was found near the SBI ATM located at Dhobinallah, Dimapur on March 15 around 4:30 pm. The rightful owner may contact @ 7085242961.
Meetings ASU 27th Biennial General Conference The Angami Students' Union (ASU) has scheduled its 27th Biennial General Conference from April 7 to 9 , 2017, under the theme "Realistic Response." The conference will be hosted by the Jotsoma Students' Union (Western Angami Students' Union) at Centenary ground, Jotsoma The medical team with others during the health mela conducted at longjang PHC Mo- village. In this regard, the Union has also scheduled a kokchung on March 15. senior consultative meeting on March 18, 3PM at ASU counselling. IEC & NLEP also checked in the PHC. ter a short meeting with office. All concerned leaders and senior officials are restaffs gave health talks on Earlier, the camp start- the members of Village quested to attend the meeting. different topics and also ed after an inaugural prayer Council Longjang, VHC distributed leaflets. Con- by Limawati Associate Pas- Committees and Staffs of ASU 2nd Union Assembly sultant NVBDCP conduct- tor Youth Ministry, Long- Longjang PHC where CMO ed LQAS during the Mela. jang Compound. During expressed profound gratiHe also visited few houses the Camp patients from tude to all the person who The Union Assembly of the Angami Students’ Union to check whether the pub- villages of Asetkong range were behind the success- (ASU) The 2nd Union Assembly for the tenure 2015-17 lic are using the LLIN mos- availed free medical ser- ful Camp. Dy.CMO gave a of Angami Students’ Union (ASU) is slated for the March 21, 11AM at APO conference hall, Kohima. Therefore all quito nets and records were vices. The camp ended af- brief report of the Camp. the Range, Unit Presidents/Representatives and Senior leaders are requested to attend without fail.
ZSUN emergency meeting The Zeliangrong Student's Union Nagaland has scheduled an emergency meeting on the March 20, 11AM at Baudi Hall, Jalukie to deliberate on its upcoming one day conference. All Executives, senior leaders, ZBN, AZSU and well wishers are requested to attend the meeting positively.
DRSU meeting
BJP Kohima Unit condoles Dimapur, march 16 (mExN): The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Kohima District has expressed its shock and sadness over the sudden and untimely demise of Kevileso Metsie-o on March 15. He was a BJP Mandal President of 11th Northern Angami. Late Kevileso was a mentor to the BJP Kohima, his dedication and commitment to the party has been an inspiration to all of us and his demise is indeed a great loss, the Unit said in a condolence message. “Our deepest sympathies go to late Kevileso’s family. We mourn with you and share personally in your grief. May his soul Rest in peace,” it added.
Vehicle appointed
a ten-day training of newly recruited group ‘B’ and ‘C’ state government employees is currently underway at circuit house, dimapur. Held under the theme, “excellence through learning,” the training comprises of 32 participants from 6 departments and resource persons from districts ToT's. among others, the training dwells on several topics like motivational talk, leadership and team building, E- governance and ICT, managing conflicts, qualities of an excellent employees, time management, stress management and swachh Bharat, a press note informed. a swachh Bharat programme was conducted on March 16 by the participants at dC's residence as practical exercise initiated by albert ezung (sdo civil) and James swu ( sdo civil) dimapur along with the trainees.
Dimapur Rengma Students' Union (DRSU) has scheduled its general meeting on March 18, 10AM at TUD office, Tenyimi Complex, next to Hotel Tragopan, Dimapur. President and colleagues of Rengma Hoho Dimapur, Rengma Mothers' Association Dimapur and executives, , area representatives, senior leaders, advisors, students and concern citizens are requested to attend the General Meeting. Members are to come with at least one traditional touch. For any further information further one can contact Information & Publicity Secretary, Kvuchulo Khing +918731943362 / +918014173513
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friday 17•03•2017
IN FOCUS
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
The Power of Truth
The Morung Express volume XII Issue 73 By Witoubou Newmai
Interesting days ahead for Manipur
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nteresting days are ahead in Manipur given the manner in which the BJP led Government was formed against the backdrop of myriad problems confronting that State. Certainly, it is all the more interesting given the fact that, the United Naga Council (UNC) backed Naga People’s Front (NPF) has joined the Government. Now that, lifting of the ongoing UNC sponsored economic “is the topmost priority” for the newly sworn-in Nongthombam Biren Singh’s Government, curiosity has heightened as to which approach the State Government may take to deal with the issue, and how is the UNC going to response to it. Whatever may be the case and reason, the Biren Singh government should note that the “please one, dump the other” approach of successive Manipur Governments had often resulted in disastrous ramification in the past, and this should not be allowed to unfold again. The new government of Manipur also should retrospect on what successive Manipur Governments had done to earn the trust of the Nagas in the State. The most misleading rhetoric of the previous Manipur Governments was the continuous parroting of “communal harmony” when it really ignored the chord that promotes the same. The rhetoric was the standard smokescreen of successive Governments’ policy of pitting one section against another to serve its own interest over the years. Since peculiarities and odd situations are not anomalies in Manipur, and since they have come to define the State today, surprises are no longer ‘shockers’. However, even then, keen observers continue to keep their fingers crossed as to how things may turn out with the new Manipur Government tackling to address the ongoing economic blockade with the UNC-backed NPF in the government. There have been loads of criticism on social media against the NPF joining the Biren Singh Government. However, it is immature and improper to hurl any criticism at the NPF at this stage. Manipur is a peculiar state, and on occasions one needs peculiar strategies in addressing issues. The NPF's principal stand is on the Naga political issue. Given this picture, one can feel the kind of uncomfortable level the coalition partners must be experiencing with NPF in a state like Manipur. On the one side, the level of uneasiness must also be scaling high for NPF given the background of Chief Minister N Biren Singh. He joined politics in the height of unrest in Manipur after the so called ‘Bangkok Agreement/Declaration’ where the Government of India and the NSCN-IM announced the ceasefire without territorial limits on June 14, 2001. Nongthombam Biren Singh resigned as the editor of Naharolgi Thoudang daily newspaper and contested the Manipur Assembly election on Democratic Revolutionary People’s Party (DRPP), the party which main objective was to protect the Manipur territory. It is pertinent to note here that Nongthombam Biren was jailed in the year 2000 for publishing in his newspaper a statement of Iboyaima Singh who was fondly called the “Father of Social Work”. That “seditious and anti-national” statement of Iboyaima allegedly encouraged and justified the campaigns of Meitei armed groups. Whatever is the background of the Chief Minister and political configuration, a prudent intervention of wisdom and maturity is imperative if problems in Manipur are to be resolved.
lEfT wiNg |
Gustavo Ribeiro Fair Observer
No, Brazil will not become a Narco State
Gustavo Ribeiro discusses the issue of drug challenges with one of Brazil’s most respected experts in organized crime
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n the first two weeks of 2017, Brazil witnessed a grand total of four prison riots. By January 17, at least 134 inmates had died inside the Brazilian penitentiary system. The deaths were the result of clashes between rival gangs that fight for the control of both prisons and drug routes. The country is being forced to deal with the appalling living conditions of its facilities and has exposed the actions of drug cartels. These recent events have led to a big question: Does Brazil risk becoming a narco state? I discussed the issue with Guaracy Mingarde, a researcher at the Forum for Public Safety and one of Brazil’s most respected experts in organized crime. To answer this question, we first need to properly understand the definition of a narco state. The term refers to an area under the control of drug cartels, where law enforcement is effectively nonexistent. This is hardly the case in Brazil, although it remains true that the government has failed miserably to crack down on organized crime. So, why will Brazil not become a narco state? “For starters, Brazil is not a major drug producer. And that is a big difference between Brazil and countries like Peru, Colombia and Bolivia. Nor is Brazil the main route to a larger market, like Mexico,” explains Mingarde. Back in the 1980s, Bolivia experienced a narco state during the dictatorial government of Luiz García Meza. His regime rose to power thanks to the financing of Roberto Suárez Goméz—aka the “King of Cocaine.” In return, Meza appointed the drug lord’s cousin as the minister of interior. That narco-regime, however, collapsed just one year later. Such a regime is difficult to replicate in Brazil. First and foremost, the country is gigantic, and putting such a model in place would require the kind of muscle that Brazilian cartels lack. Bolivia, on the other hand, is a country with a population smaller than that of São Paulo. “Furthermore,” Mingarde points out, “in those Latin American countries, the economic elites got involved in the drug business. That hasn’t happened in Brazil. As much as I hate our elites, they are the same [as] they were centuries ago—and they are not dealing drugs.” Brazil’s superior electoral court has expressed concern with drug cartels financing political campaigns. In some of Rio’s favelas, gangs coerce residents into voting for a specific candidate. Mingarde, however, says that such power is relative: “While there is some degree of success in a few communities, that’s not a widespread phenomenon.” Gustavo Ribeiro is an award-winning trilingual journalist who has extensive experience covering Brazilian politics and international affairs. He has been published by both Brazilian and French media, including Veja, Época, Folha de São Paulo, Médiapart and Radio France Internationale. Ribeiro holds a Master’s degree in Political Science and Latin American Studies from Panthéon-Sorbonne University in Paris. This article was originally published by plus55, a partner in-
C O M M E N T A R Y
Catherine Harrington & Amal de Chickera openDemocracy
Will Nepal give equal citizenship rights to women?
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s it my fault that I don’t have a nationality?” a young Nepali girl asked recently on one of the country’s prime-time talk shows. “No it is not. It is your mother’s,” replied the male authority figure. The girl is one of countless women, men, girls and boys in the country who are classified as stateless, despite being born in Nepal to Nepali mothers. Nepal remains one of twenty-six countries that denies women the equal right to confer nationality on their children, and one of roughly fifty that denies women the right to pass nationality to their spouses and to even acquire and retain their own nationality. We recently travelled to the country, on behalf of the Global Campaign for Equal Nationality Rights to increase government authorities’ and legislators’ awareness of the significant harm done by this discriminatory nationality law to individuals, families, and indeed to the country’s economy and reputation. We witnessed a country striving to write a new chapter marked by stability and a shared prosperity. Ten years after its historic peace agreement, one year after the establishment of its new Constitution, and still recovering from the devastating 2015 earthquake, this young democracy is considering how to lay the foundation for a fairer society that transcends the political conflict and economic hardship of the past. Like too many countries though, it is trying to do so having tied one of its own hands behind its back. The impact of gender discrimination in nationality laws is significant and wide-ranging: from denied access to education and healthcare, to the inability to own property, hold a bank account or drivers license, vote, or run for public office. Many end up statelessness, not considered citizens by their own countries, or indeed, any other country in the world. Denied equal rights, the child of a Nepali woman whose father is ‘unknown’ (a term with great stigma attached) should, according to the Constitution, have access to citizenship. In practice, such children can only apply for naturalized citizenship – which is citizenship not by right, but at the discretion of state authorities, most of whom are deeply conservative. The child of Nepali woman and a foreign man may only apply for naturalized citizenship if the child has not acquired any other citizenship and is a permanent resident of Nepal. Even when it comes to securing one’s own citizenship, Nepali girls must do so through their father and married Nepali women through their spouse. This year, laws that conflict with the new constitution, including the nationality law, are expected to be amended. This presents an opportunity to advance the nationality rights of Nepali women and their children in some circumstances – an opportunity that, if leveraged, would benefit the country and further gender equality. However, to achieve equal nationality rights for Nepali men and women, a Constitutional amendment is urgently needed. The cOsT OF exclusiOn “If my daughters become refugees in another country, will they then be able to get a nationality?” This was the question being asked by Deepti Gurung, a Nepali woman unable to secure Nepali nationality for her children born in Nepal, despite trying everything possible for many years. That an educated woman would even fleetingly consider refugee status in a foreign country as a ‘solution’ to securing her children’s future, points to a profound sense of helplessness. When we visited Deepti and her family, sitting in her living room and eating her expertly made samosas, we could feel the deep sadness, frustration, and desperation of this mother who would do anything to give her daughters the opportunity to succeed in
Nepali women are treated as second-class citizens, due to discriminatory nationality law
life. She knew that, despite all her efforts, the list of opportunities that her daughters would be denied was long and the burden heavy. When speaking with her daughter, what struck us was not just that here was an intelligent young woman who would never become the doctor she dreamt of being, or whose plans to be a lawyer were indefinitely put on hold until she got citizenship. Here also was a country heavily dependent on its next generation, but missing out on some of its best and brightest young talent due to an ill-conceived and discriminatory law that most countries have relegated to the history books. Though ‘lucky’ is never a word Deepti would use to describe her family’s situation, many affected families face situations that are far more dire. Sapana Pariyar's husband abandoned her and their two children, refusing to grant his citizenship to his wife or daughters. Single mothers who were married before applying for citizenship have little chance of securing theirs or their children's. Lacking the documents needed for formal employment, Sapana does hard labor to try to put enough food on the table for her children. The meager salary was not enough, however, to pay primary school fees or rent in their modest home. As a result, the family is homeless and the two young daughters cannot go to school. The personal cost of statelessness is well-documented and wide-ranging, but states are not necessarily motivated into action by this alone. However, the cost of statelessness is not only individual. States also pay a price: an opportunity cost of a growing disenfranchised population with no means to support itself or contribute to the formal economy; the development cost of not being able to benefit from the full potential of all its people; the socio-political cost of ever-increasing inequality and tension. The link between gender equality and sustainable economic development is not groundbreaking. Development experts and human rights actors have emphasized the connections for years. That is why the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) include ending discrimination against women as a stand-alone
goal (Goal 5), while also integrating gender indicators throughout the other sixteen goals. Nepal and countries with similar laws will not be able to reach targets on nine of the seventeen SDGs, as long as they retain gender-discriminatory nationality laws. These include targets related to achieving peace, justice and strong institutions (Goal 16), quality education (Goal 4), the eradication of poverty and hunger (Goals 1 & 2), and the reduction of inequalities (Goal 10). We have all been patriarchal societies and continue to be, to varying degrees. No country has a monopoly on that history. But it is a legacy that is holding every country back – notably so when gender discrimination is sanctioned by law and prevents access to citizenship. Discriminatory nationality laws provide insight into the state’s position that despite whatever else is written, rights and responsibilities are ultimately defined (and denied) by gender. They show that all citizens are really not equal before the law. Nepal will be drafting a new citizenship law in the coming year. Like other countries with discriminatory nationality laws, it will also be establishing a national action plan to realize the Sustainable Development Goals. And so, well into the 21st century, it has a dual opportunity to finally end one of the great exclusions of the 20th century and to set its course on the path to equality, justice, and sustainable development for all. For the sake of its people, its future, we can only hope that this is an opportunity it will take. Amal de Chickera is a co-founder and co-director of the Institute on Statelessness and Inclusion. Catherine Harrington is Campaign Manager of the Global Campaign for Equal Nationality Rights – an international coalition led by organizations including the Women’s Refugee Commission, the Institute on Statelessness and Inclusion, and the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees. It is housed at the Women’s Refugee Commission and includes the Nepal-based Forum for Women, Law and Development.
To end HIV epidemic, listen to the youth We have what it takes to change the course of our generation’s destiny. Will we all rise to the occasion? Ange Kagame
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Thomson Reuters Foundation
grew up in Africa in the ’90s, a period now often called the continent’s lost decade. It is a decade that many Africans associate with tanking economies, civil strife, senseless slaughter, and devastating epidemics. But since the turn of the millennium, Africa has pursued peace, witnessed economic revival, combated diseases, and improved the lives of millions of people. Through more synergetic partnerships between governments, their communities and various development agencies, we are witnessing a new dawn for our continent. Yet for my peers – young men and women who were born in that trying decade – and those younger than us, a dark cloud hangs over us. Right now on our continent, AIDS is the leading cause of death among adolescents aged 10 – 19 years old. HIV is claiming the lives of young people, and those of women my age at an alarming rate, as more than 7,500 girls and women aged 15-24 will be infected with HIV this week. In the hardest-hit countries, girls account for more than 80 percent of all new HIV infections among adolescents. For a disease we can prevent and treat, this is unacceptable. To end this unjust and daunting reality for adolescent girls and young women, the world must work faster and
harder in the fight against HIV. Governments and development partners must meaningfully engage with us not only in the fight against HIV, but also in holistic aspects of development – education, economic opportunity, reproductive health. As empowered adolescent girls and young women, we will not only defeat HIV, but we will also lead prosperous and purposeful lives for ourselves and future generations. To end the HIV epidemic affecting young women and girls, governments and their development partners must continue investing in broad programs that look at the totality of the lives of adolescent girls and young women. These efforts must go beyond providing treatment and prevention, and focus on the overall development of this group. They must reach adolescent girls and young women with broader services that span across health and education while offering them social protection, including awareness campaigns to help fight stigma. Girls should be supported to stay in school and get a good education, to truly level the playing field. These programs have been proven to reduce the likelihood of girls being infected with HIV, and they also have wide-ranging impact among young women and girls, and across their communities. For every extra year of
schooling, for example, a girl’s income increases by 10 percent, she’s less likely to marry early, and she is more likely to have a healthier family – and she’ll be more likely to be able to choose if and when she decides to have a family. To get there, government, communities, and development partners have to be radical in their approach. They have to challenge every barrier to political participation that young women face and understand what young women and girls need to stay safe and live their lives on their own terms. With high HIV infections among young people and the growing numbers in this demographic, especially in Africa, the global fight against HIV cannot be won without them. It is time to put young people front and center in the response. That means going beyond involving them in program planning and implementation, to including them in decision-making. In the 1990s, we were too young to take part in shaping the response to the issues of the time or to grasp the long term consequences of those events. Today, we are in a different reality. We have the knowledge, the passion and the energy to lead and achieve lasting victory against the HIV epidemic. As a matter of fact, we are already taking action across the continent – in South Africa, young
wRiTE-wiNg
women are joining Rise Clubs to support and educate each other about HIV. In Kenya, young women are creating savings clubs to reduce the economic vulnerability that drives the spread of HIV. In Rwanda, a country known for embodying gender equality and promoting youth empowerment in all sectors of development, programs that focus on youth and women are achieving great impact. For instance, concerted efforts between different health sector stakeholders and the community have helped the country achieve tremendous results in the fight against HIV, with significant reduction in the mother-to-child transmission of the virus – from nearly 10% to 1.8% in the past 10 years. To quote, Executive Director of UNAIDS Michel Sidibe’s call to action at the opening of the July 2016 International AIDS conference in Durban “Complacency is the new conspiracy—and it must be broken! Our progress is incredibly fragile. If we do not act now we risk resurgence and resistance.” It is now up to us the youth, to answer the call, stand up and join the efforts of governments and partners to ‘start free, stay free, AIDS free’ by 2020. We have what it takes to change the course of our generation’s destiny. Will we all rise to the occasion? Ange Kagame is an advocate for female empowerment and the daughter of Paul Kagame, President of Rwanda
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.
Friday 17•03•2017
PERSPECTIVE
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
How Progressive Cities Can Reshape the World — And Democracy as well As national governments lurch to the right, a radical citizens coalition is Barcelona is showing how ordinary people can reclaim control of their communities Oscar Reyes and Bertie Russell Foreign Policy in Focus
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e’re living in e xt ra o rd i na r y times that demand brave and creative solutions. If we’re able to imagine a different city, we’ll have the power to transform it.” – Ada Colau, Mayor of Barcelona. On 24 May 2015, the citizen platform Barcelona en Comú was elected as the minority government of the city of Barcelona. Along with a number of other cities across Spain, this election was the result of a wave of progressive municipal politics across the country, offering an alternative to neoliberalism and corruption. With Ada Colau — a housing rights activist — catapulted into the position of mayor, and with a wave of citizens with no previous experience of formal politics finding themselves in charge of their city, BComú is an experiment in progressive change that we can’t afford to ignore. After 20 months in charge of the city, we try to draw some of the main lessons that can help inspire and inform a radical new municipal politics that moves us beyond borders and nations — and towards a post-capitalist world based on dignity, respect, and justice. The besT way To oppose anTi-immigranT senTimenT is To confronT The real reasons life is shiT. There is no question that life is getting harder, more precarious, more stressful, and less certain for the majority of people. In the U.S. and across Europe, racist reactionaries and nationalist politicians are blaming this on two things — immigrants, and “outside forces” that challenge national sovereignty. While Trump and Brexit are the most obvious cases, we can see the same phenomenon across Europe, in the rise of far-right parties like Alternative für Deutschland in Germany and the Front National in France. In Barcelona, there is a relative absence of public discourse that blames the social crisis on immigrants, and most attempts to do so have fallen flat. On the contrary, on February 18 of this year, over 160,000 people flooded the streets of Barcelona to demand that Spain take in more refugees. While this demonstration was also caught up with complexities of Catalan nationalism and controversy over police repression of migrant street vendors, it highlighted the support for a politics that cares for migrants and refugees. The main reason for this is simple: There is a widespread and successful politics that provides real explanations of why people are suffering, and that fights for real solutions. The reason you can’t afford your rent is because of predatory tourism, unscrupulous landlords, a lack of social housing, and property being purchased as overseas investments. The reason social services are being cut is because the central government transferred huge amounts of public funds into the private banks, propping up a financial elite, and because of a political system riddled with corruption. While Barcelona played a leading role in initiating a network of “cities of refuge,” simply condemning anti-immigrant nationalism isn’t enough. In a climate where popular municipal movements are providing a strong narrative as to what they see as the problem — and identifying what they’re going to do about it — it’s incredibly difficult for racist and nationalist narratives based on lies and hatred to take root. poliTics doesn’T have To be The preserve of rich old whiTe men. Ada Colau is the first female mayor of Barcelona. She is a cofounder of BComú, and was formerly the spokesperson of the Mortgage Victims Platform, a grassroots campaign challenging evictions and Spain’s un-
bers, seven of whom are women, whose average age is 40. BComú’s vision of a “feminized politics” represents a significant break with the existing political order. “You can be in politics without being a strong, arrogant male, who’s ultra-confident, who knows the answer to everything,” Colau explains. Instead, she offers a political style that openly expresses doubts and contradictions. This is backed by a values-based politics that emphasizes the role of community and the common good — as well as policies designed to build on that vision. The Barcelona City Council’s new Department of Life Cycles, Feminisms, and LGBTI is the institutional expression of these values. It has significantly increased the budget for campaigns against sexist violence, as well as leading a council working group that looks to identify and tackle the feminization of poverty. The changing face of the city council is reinforced by BComú’s strict ethics policy, Governing by Obeying, which includes a €2,200 monthly limit on payments to its elected officials. Colau takes home less than a quarter of the amount claimed by her predecessor Xavier Trias. By February 2017, €216,000 in unclaimed salaries had been paid into a new fund that will support social projects in the city. a poliTics ThaT works begins by lisTening. BComú started life with an extensive process of listening, responding to ordinary peoples’ concerns, and crowd-sourcing ideas — as summarized in its guide to building a citizen municipal platform. Drawing on proposals gathered at meetings in public squares across the city, BComú created a program reflecting immediate issues in local neighborhoods, city-wide problems, and broader discontent with the political system. Local meetings were complemented by technical and policy committees, and an extensive process of online consultation. This process resulted in a political platform that stressed the need to tackle the “social emergency” — problems such as home evictions on a huge scale, or the effect of uncontrolled mass tourism. These priorities came from listening to citizens across the city rather than an echo chamber of business and political elites. BComú’s election results reflected this broader appeal: It won its highest share of the vote in Barcelona’s poorest neighborhoods, in part through increasing turnout in those areas. On entering government, BComú then began to implement an Emergency Plan that included measures to halt evictions, hand out fines to banks leaving multiple properties empty, and subsidize energy and transport costs for the unemployed and those earning under the minimum wage. a poliTics ThaT works never sTops lisTening. Politics doesn’t happen every four years — it is the everyday process of shaping the conditions in which we live our lives. This means that one of the central tasks of a politics that works is to forge a new relationship between citizens and the institutions that we use to govern our societies. For BComú, the everyday basis of politics means citizens and civil society organizations directly shaping the strategic plan of their city. It means not just consultation, but active empowerment in helping move citizens from being “recipients” of a politics that is done to them, to active political agents that shape the everyday life of their city. In the first months of occupying the institutions, BComú introduced an open-source platform, Decidim Barcelona, for citizens to co-create the municipal action plan for the city. Over 10,000 proposals were registered by the site’s 25,000 registered users. While that’s a small share of the
400 in-person meetings. The Decidim platform is now being adapted to run participatory budgetary pilot-schemes in two districts, as well as being used in the ongoing development of new infrastructure, pedestrian-friendly spaces, and transport schemes. Meanwhile, the municipal Department of Participation is undertaking a systematic rethinking of the meaning of participation, looking to move away from meaningless “consultations” and towards methods for active empowerment. This is an imperfect process, and BComú have gotten things wrong at times — such as the failure to properly engage when introducing a SuperBlock in the Poblenou district — but the principle is simple. To govern well, you must create new processes for obeying citizens’ demands. At the same time, the structures that built BComú remain in place, with 15 neighborhood groups and 15 thematic working groups providing an ongoing link between activists and institutions. No structure is perfect, and it remains unclear if these working groups can help BComú avoid institutionalization and remain connected to social movements, but the hope is that this model provides a basis for remaining in touch with grassroots concerns. poliTics doesn’T begin wiTh The parTy. BComú isn’t a local arm of a bigger political party, nor does it exist merely as a branch of a broader strategy to control the central political institutions of the nation-state. Rather, BComú is one in a series of independent citizen platforms that have looked to occupy municipal institutions in an effort to bring about progressive social change. From A Coruña to Valencia, Madrid and Zaragoza, these municipal movements are the direct efforts of citizens rejecting the old mode of doing politics, and starting to effect change where they live. Instead of a national party structure, they coordinate through a network of rebel cities across Spain. Most immediately, this means coordinating press releases and actively learning from how one another engage with urban problems. That doesn’t mean that BComú can reject political parties entirely. While the initiative arose from social movements, it ended up incorporating several existing political parties in its platform. These include Podemos — another child of Spain’s Occupy-style indignados movement — and the Catalan Greens-United Left party, which had consistently been a junior coalition partner in city councils headed by the center-left Socialist Party of Catalonia from 1979 until 2011. These parties continue alongside BComú, with their own completely separate organizational and funding structures. But entering BComú has forced existing parties to significantly change how they operate. Coalition negotiations encouraged the selection of new council members (only two of the elected candidates have previously held office), and they are subject to a tough ethics code that considerably increases their accountability. The fluid relationship between the new coalitions and political parties allows for multiple levels of coordination, without having to pass through a rigid central leadership. It may also be replicated in regional government, where the recently formed Un Pais En Comú seeks to replicate the city government coalition across Catalonia. On a terrain that contains a different set of politics — not least a strong national-separatist sentiment — it remains to be seen whether this latest initiative will be successful. power is The capaciTy To acT. BComú doesn’t subscribe to traditional notions of power, whereby if you hold public office, you somehow “have” power. On the contrary, power is the capac-
is only one part of what makes change possible. BComú emerged after almost a decade of major street-protests, anti-eviction campaigns, squatting movements, anti-corruption campaigns, and youth movements — the most visible form being the indignados protests that began in 2011. After years of being at a high level of mobilization, many within these movements made a strategic wager: We’ve learned how to occupy the squares, but what happens if we try to occupy the institutions? Frustrated by the limits of what could be achieved by being mobilized only outside of institutions, the decision to form BComú was to try to occupy the institutions as part of the same movement that occupied the squares. In practice, this isn’t so simple. poliTics is a messy game, full of compromises forced by working in a world of conTradicTions. In the most practical sense, BComú may be leading the council, but it holds only 11 of the 41 available seats. Six other political parties are also represented on the council, mostly seeking to block, slow down, or weaken its initiatives. Frustrated by these moves — and overwhelmed by the demands of the institutions — BComú formed a governing coalition with the PSC, a move supported by around two-thirds of its registered supporters. But it remains a minority government, and two left parties that refused a similar pact responded by stepping up their block on almost all legislative initiatives. The resulting political crisis delayed the passing of the city’s 2017 budget, which was eventually forced through on a confidence motion when BComú challenged the opposition to unite around another plan — which it failed to do. While this experience has shown the resilience of BComú in the confrontational confines of the council chamber, the key lesson here is that occupying the institutions isn’t enough. An electoral strategy is not sufficient alone to create change. The power to act comes from a combination of occupying both the institutions and the squares, of social movements organizing and exercising leverage, providing social force that can be coupled with the potential of the occupied institutions. The power to change comes when these work in tandem. It’s been a bumpy ride, but BComú has been able to justify its budget on the grounds that it prioritizes social measures (such as building new nurseries, combatting energy poverty, and focusing resources on the poorest neighborhoods) with reference to the extensive and ongoing process of participation that it has encouraged. One of the biggest dangers in looking to build radical municipalist movements in other cities is to mistake electoral victory with real victory — to sit back and think that now we’ve got “our guys” in the institutions, so we can sit back and let change occur. TransnaTional poliTics begins in your ciTy. In a time where reactionary political movements are building walls and retreating to national boundaries, BComú is illustrating that a new transnational political movement begins in our cities. To this end, BComú has established an international committee tasked with promoting and sharing its experiences abroad, while learning from other rebel cities such as Naples and Messina. Barcelona has been active in international forums, promoting the “right to the city” at the recent UN Habitat III conference, and taking a leadership role in the Global Network of Cities, Local, and Regional Governments. These moves look to bypass the national scale where possible, prefiguring post-national networks of urban solidarity and co-
cities of Medellin and Bogotá also suggest that links are being made on a supranational scale. One of the most tangible outcomes of this level of supranational urban organizing was the strong role played by cities in the rejection of the Transatlantic Trade & Investment Partnership, or TTIP — a massive proposed trade pact between the U.S. and Europe. As hosts of a meeting entitled “Local Authorities and the New Generation of Free Trade Agreements” in April 2016, BComú led on the agreement of the Barcelona Declaration, with more than 40 cities committing to the rejection of TTIP. As of the time of writing, TTIP now looks dead in the water. At this early stage, it remains unclear how this supranational network of radical municipalism may develop. Perhaps the most important step for BComú is to share their experience and support those in other cities that are looking to reclaim politics, helping to build citizens platforms across Europe and beyond. But the idea of a post-national network of citizens also allows us to dare to dream — of shared resources, shared politics, and shared infrastructure — where it’s not where you were born but where you live that determines your right to live. essenTial services can be run in our common inTeresT. The clue to BComú’s strategy for essential services is hidden in its name: The plan is to run them in common. At the end of 2016, and faced with a crisis in the funeral sector in which only two companies controlled the sector and charged prices almost twice the national average, the Barcelona council intervened to establish a municipal funeral company that is forecasted to reduce costs by 30 percent. Around the same time, the council voted in favor of the remunicipalization of water, paving the way for water to be taken out of the private sector at some point this year. In February 2017, Barcelona amended the terms and conditions for electricity supply, preventing energy firms from cutting off supply to vulnerable people. The two major energy firms — Endesa and Gas Natural — protested this by not bidding for the €65-million municipal energy contracts, hoping this would force the council to overturn the policy. Instead, a raft of small and medium size energy companies were happy to comply with the new directive to tackle energy poverty, and stand to be awarded the contracts if a court challenge from the large firms proves unsuccessful. BComú is also actively planning to introduce a municipal energy company within the next two years. However, it’s important to recognize the major difference between the public and the common. As Michael Hardt argues, our choices are not limited to businesses controlled privately (private property) or by the state (public property). The third option is to hold things in common — where resources and services are controlled, produced, and distributed democratically and equitably according to peoples need. A simple example of what this could look like was the proposal — which narrowly failed only due to voter turnout — for Berlin to establish an energy company that would put citizens on the board of the company. This difference underpins the Barcelona experience. This isn’t a traditional socialist government that thinks it can run things better on behalf of the people. This is a movement that believes the people can run things better on their own behalf, combining citizen wisdom with expert knowledge to solve the everyday problems that people face. Oscar Reyes is an associate fellow of the Institute for Policy Studies based in Barcelona Bertie Russell is a Research Fellow at the Uni-
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Disaster response goes digital - but not for all Tech firms are helping information move faster in a crisis, but some vulnerable people are shut out Megan Rowling
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Thomson Reuters Foundation
hat do you do if you are a disaster manager in a coastal city when a powerful earthquake hits offshore? You start tweeting life-saving updates and safety information to the public, alert your volunteers via SMS and set up a helpline. You host a conference call for rescue workers using open-source tools and provide them with access to key documents via an online filesharing service before reaching out to emergency accommodation providers through lodgings websites. At a conference on resilience in New Orleans this week, technology companies outlined the increasingly sophisticated tools they are offering - on an altruistic basis - to help people cope better when disasters strike. They are also collaborating to advance the speed and efficacy with which those tools can be deployed, said Kellie Bentz, head of global disaster response and relief for online accommodation marketplace Airbnb. "In this space, we don't believe there is any room for competition - we should all be working together; there is just too much to do," she said. Tech firms, including Google and Facebook, have "a very informal charter" to talk to each other so they can work better with governments and aid groups, she added. And it's not just in natural disasters like earthquakes and floods that tech companies are offering help. helping people in need Later this year Airbnb plans to launch a new community of socially minded hosts that want to put up - for free - people in need, from refugees to aid workers and the homeless, said Bentz. The company already enables its 3 million hosts to offer shelter to people hit by emergencies and those who assist them - a service that has been activated in some 55 disasters globally since 2013, with more than 2,000 nights' accommodation donated. Cloud communications platform Twilio.org, meanwhile, is partnering with the International Rescue Committee charity so that refugees in Greece can find out the date of their asylum appointment in their own language via a phonebased voice response system. Tom Tarantino, Twitter's public policy manager, said the company aims to "weaponise Twitter in a disaster" by helping users make the most of different features - from dedicated hashtags to Twitter handle lists, adverts and live video - to get vital information to those affected as quickly as possible. If communications go down or are overloaded in a disaster, an SMS version of Twitter can be activated, or Twilio can use its connections to find out which data networks are still on and figure out when others will be up and running, the experts said. Yet while these companies are seeking innovative ways to assist in disasters, they acknowledged technology cannot always substitute for human support, and some of those affected may be reluctant to try out new things in tough circumstances. To overcome this issue, Airbnb sends employees and volunteers to disaster zones to help people use the online platform, Bentz said. "Not all digital solutions are right to solve human problems," said Erika Murdock Balbuena, head of strategic initiatives with Twilio.org. In a crisis, people may not want to have to sign up for something on a web page but just be reassured they will have a safe place to sleep, she added. digiTal illiTeracy In a separate discussion at the conference, government officials highlighted the difficulties of using vast amounts of information pouring in via social media to make good decisions. "From an emergency management perspective, it's a huge mess," said Sara Estes White, deputy chief information officer for New Orleans. "How do you take it and make it useful?" Mark Dix of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration said agencies must become "clever in how we manipulate, use, sort and filter that data" to answer the right questions. Software has been developed that can mine tweets and other crowd-sourced reports from crisis zones to find out what is happening where - from mapping floods in Jakarta to identifying relief needs after Hurricane Sandy hit New York in 2012. But some vulnerable groups - often the elderly or the poorest families - cannot use the internet, experts cautioned. In New Orleans, which was battered by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, around two-thirds of the lowest-income groups do not have access to the internet, said Estes White. When the east of the city was hit by a tornado this February, very little was posted on social media, she noted. "Digital literacy is a significant challenge that isn't being truly addressed," she said. A representative of United Way 211, a service that helps people across North America find local resources, said when floods hit Louisiana last year, there was still a need to knock on doors and hand out printed information about getting aid. Estes White said offline information remained essential to piece together a full picture of the situation on the ground and reach all those in need.
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FriDAY 17•03•2017
INDIA
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
Will keep working, won’t sit idle, says PM Modi Advani to become next President of India as Modi puts forward his name: Sources
Prime Minister Narendra Modi (PTI File Photo)
Modi also urged the party leaders to publicise Ambedkar's works and contributions new delhi, MarCh 16 (ianS): Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said he wished to keep working and urged others to do the same too. He spoke at the BJP’s parliamentary party meeting where he was felicitated over the Bharatiya Janata Party’s performance in assembly elections. A BJP leader who attended the meeting said: “Modiji said he will
new delhi, MarCh 16 (agenCieS): Senior BJP leader LK Advani may become the next President of India, according to Zee News sources. Advani's name came after PM Narendra Modi himself proposed the BJP veteran's name for the next President of India. According to Zee News sources, PM Narendra Modi put forward Advani's name during a meeting in Gujarat's Somnath. Reportedly, PM Modi says that President post will be a 'guru dakshina' for BJP veteran LK Advani. In this meeting, Amit Shah, Keshubhai Patel and LK Advani were also present. Noteworthy, after BJP's massive win in UP assembly elections, BJP is expected to get the next President of India of its choice. Presidential election will held in July this year.
keep working and asked us to do the same. He said that he will not sit idle and will not let anyone sit idle.” Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar told the media that the Prime Minister urged BJP members to make youth “ambassadors” of the government’s public welfare works. According to Kumar, Modi said youngsters depend on mobile phones more than on newspapers and TV channels to get information and stressed on the need to use this medium of communication to tap them. The BJP has planned various programmes across the country from April 6 — the day when the BJP was
formed — to April 14, the birth anniversary of B.R. Ambedkar. “The Prime Minister asked party leaders to work during this week to give a boost to the use of BHIM app, a digital payment application, by educating the masses about it and helping them download it,” Kumar said. Modi also urged the party leaders to publicise Ambedkar’s works and contributions. BJP President Amit Shah, who was present in the meeting, set the tone for the 2019 Lok Sabha polls. Shah said the party’s win in the state assembly polls was an outcome of people’s vote against “casteism, nepotism and appeasement”.
Council approves all five draft bills for GST
new delhi, MarCh 16 (ianS): With the Goods and Service Tax (GST) Council on Thursday approving the remaining two draft bills -UTGST (Union Territory GST) and SGST (state GST), all the five enabling draft bills stand approved to enable a likely rollout of the new indirect tax regime by July 1. "The 12th Council meeting approved UTGST and SGST today. Officers had already done the groundwork, The drafts were already circulated. In the past meetings, the Council has already approved CGST (Central GST), IGST (Integrated GST) and Compensation drafts," Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, who chairs the Council, told reporters here. With the final approvals, the leg-
BSNL to offer 2GB data per day with unlimited calling at Rs 339 new delhi, MarCh 16 (ianS): State-owned telecom company Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited on Thursday launched a plan that will offer 2 GB data per day with unlimited calling at Rs 339, a company statement said here. The special promotional offer under prepaid mobile services is in effect from March 16, 2017, for the period of 90 days on pan-India basis. "The benefits customer will get under the Combo STV of Rs 339 are unlimited calls in BSNL network and unlimited data with fair use policy of 2 GB per day with validity of 28 days. The data of 2GB per day is one of the best in the industry. The free calls to other network will be for 25 minutes per day and after that the charges will be at 25 paisa per min," the statement said.
islative exercise stands complete and July 1 is the tentative date of GST's implementation, Jaitley said. The draft bills now need to be approved by the Cabinet and tabled in Parliament's ongoing budget session. Meanwhile, the sGST draft law will have to be approved by the legislative assemblies of Delhi and Puducherry. The UTGST draft law is for the union territories like Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Daman and Diu and Dadra and Nagar Haveli, which do not have legislative assemblies. The new indirect tax regime also has nine set of rules and regulations, out of which the Council has already approved five -- registration, payment, refunds, invoices and returns.
"Four other rules - composition, valuation, input tax credit transitions - require a formal approval of the Council," Jaitley said adding the next meeting will be held on March 31. After March 31, the Council will take up the exercise of fitment of various commodities in the GST tax slabs - 5 per cent, 12 per cent, 15 per cent and 28 per cent, he added. The officials have already started the fitment process, which will be put up for discussion and approval before the Council. Jaitley also said that the cess on sin (tobacco products) and luxury goods has been capped at 15 per cent by the Council. "Capping of cess has been done. These are not actual, but, ceiling is kept higher to give a marginal headspace," he said.
Captain Amarinder Singh sworn in as Punjab CM Chandigarh, MarCh 16 (PTi): After guiding the Congress to a resounding victory, Amarinder Singh was on Thursday sworn-in as the Punjab chief minister for the second time with nine ministers including Navjot Singh Sidhu also taking the oath. Amarinder, 75, was sworn in as the state's 26th chief minister. This will be Amarinder's second stint as chief minister. Earlier, he led the Congress government from 2002 to 2007. Speculation was rife that Sidhu, the cricketerturned politician, would be given the post of deputy chief minister but he was second among the list of nine ministers to be sworn in. Brahm Mohindra was sworn in as cabinet minister right after Amarinder. Two ministers of state -both women -- were sworn in at the ceremony attended among others by former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi. The ceremony was held at the Raj Bhavan in Chandigarh and the oath was administered by Governor V P Singh Badnore. Sporting a black sleeveless jacket adorned with army medals, Amarinder took the oath in English. Besides Sidhu those sworn in were Manpreet Singh Badal, estranged nephew of former Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal, Sadhu Singh Dharamsot, Tript Rajinder Singh Bajwa, Rana Gurjit Singh and Charanjit Singh Channi. Two women MLAs Aruna Chaudhary and Ra-
Punjab Governor V P Singh Badnore administering oath to the new Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh at the Raj Bhavan in Chandigarh on Thursday. (PTI Photo)
zia Sultana were sworn in as Ministers of State (Independent Charge). The Council of Ministers has representation from different castes, regions and religious faiths. While Mohindra, the senior-most minister after Amarinder, is a Hindu face in the cabinet hailing from the CM's home district Patiala, the rest of the cabinet ministers are Sikhs which include Charanjit Singh Channi and Sadhu Singh Dharamsot, both from the Dalit community. Among the women who have been given ministerial berths, Arun Chaudhary is a Dalit face from Gurdaspur district while Razia Sultana is a prominent leader from Malerkotla, who belongs to the Muslim community. While Amarinder Singh and Rana Gurjit Singh were the only ones to take oath in English, Mohindra and Aruna Chaudhary took
oath in Hindi, while the rest took the oath in Punjabi. The state can have a maximum of 18 ministers including the chief minister. The Congress has 77 MLAs in the assembly. Amarinder Singh initially has kept the strength of his Cabinet short, leaving scope to go for in an expansion at a later stage. Capt Amarinder had announced that the oath taking ceremony would be a simple affair in view of the financial crisis facing the stage. A galaxy of Congress leaders including Himachal Pradesh CM Virbhadra Singh, Kapil Sibal, Ashok Gehlot, Bhupinder Singh Hooda, Ajay Maken, Raj Babbar, Ambika Soni, Pawan Kumar Bansal, Anand Sharma, Natwar Singh, Sachin Pilot and Asha Kumari, Pratap Singh Bajwa, among others were present on the occasion.
Amarinder's wife former Union Minister Preneet Kaur and his family members were also present. Also present on the occasion included Pakistani journalist Aroosa Alam. Former UP Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav was represented by his ex-Minister Balwant Singh Ramoowalia. Families of other ministers, who took oath, were also present on the occasion. After taking oath, Navjot Sidhu, the MLA from Amritsar-East met Manmohan Singh and Rahul Gandhi. Congress under the leadership of Amarinder had won 77 seats in the 117 member Assembly elections wresting power from the SAD-BJP alliance which was relegated to the third spot with 18 seats. Aam Aadmi Party won 20 seats and two seats went to its ally Lok Insaaf Party.
India at 148th in number of women India aims at affordable healthcare National Health Policy MPs; United Nations calls for quotas Morung Express News
UniTed naTionS, MarCh 16 (ianS): Releasing a world ranking of the number of women parliamentarians that that placed India 148, Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, the head of UN Women, has called for reservations for women. The rankings of all 193 UN member countries released here on Wednesday by the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and UN Women showed that women made up 11.8 per cent of the Lok Sabha where 64 were elected to the 542-member house and 11 per cent of the Rajya Sabha with 27 of the 245 members. India ranked 88 in the number of women ministers with five or 18.5 per cent in the cabinet. However, women hold important positions: Sumitra Mahajan is the Speaker and Sushma Swaraj is the External Affairs Minister. Speaking to reporters, IPU Secretary-General
Dimapur | March 16
Martin Chungong backed up the call for reservations for women suggesting that quotas for them could speed up the process for achieving gender equality. At the current rate of progress, it would take 50 years for the number of women to equal that of men in legislative bodies, he said. The percentage of women in parliaments worldwide barely ticked up from 22.6 per cent in 2015 to 23.3 per cent in 2016. India's percentage is about half the world tally. Mlambo-Ngcuka, the Executive Director of UN Women, the international organisation's arm for empowering women, said that the most progress in increasing their ranks in parliament was achieved in countries with quotas. A constitutional amendment bill to reserve 33 per cent of Lok Sabha and State Assembly seats
for women was first proposed in 1996 but has failed in the last 20 years to make headway. In the latest attempt, it passed the Rajya Sabha in 2010 but lapsed when the last Lok Sabha ended its term in 2014 without taking it up. The Rashtriya Janata Dal, the Janata Dal (United) and Samajwadi Party have been leading the opposition to the constitutional amendment. Chungong said a positive development was a move away from shunting women to "soft" ministries like women's affairs and instead placing them in important ministries. In addition to Swaraj, who has the important External Affairs portfolio, Uma Bharti is the Water Resources Minister and Nirmala Sitharaman has independent charge of Commerce and Industry. Mlambo-Ngcuka said
that women politicians were held back by a number of problems, including the lack of finance for campaigns and stereotyping. They also faced bullying online and physically, harassment and hostile treatment by the media, she added. Rwanda ranked first in the number of women parliamentarians with 61.3 per cent in the lower house, followed by Bolivia with 53.1 per cent and Cuba 48.9 per cent. In South Asia, Nepal ranked 48 with 29.6 per cent of the lower house seats held by women; Pakistan ranked 89 with 20.6 per cent (but with no ministers); Bangladesh was 91st with 20.3 per cent, and Sri Lanka lagged at 179th place with 5.8 per cent. Bulgaria, France and Nicaragua tied for the first rank for the number of women ministers with 52.9 per cent each.
India has approved an ambitious health policy which strong focus on “Preventive and Promotive Health Care and Universal access to good quality health care services. The National Health Policy 2017 NHP, 2017) was approved by the Union Cabinet at its meeting chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi, a PIB press release said. The last national health policy was framed in 2002. The main objective of the NHP is to achieve the highest possible level of good health and well-being and to achieve universal access to good quality health care services without anyone having to face financial hardship as a consequence, it said. The broad principles of the policy is centered on Professionalism, Integrity and Ethics, Equity, Affordability, Universality, Patient Centered & Quality of Care, Accountability and plural-
2017 unveiled in Lok Sabha
ism, it added. In order to provide access and financial protection at secondary and tertiary care levels, the policy proposes free drugs, free diagnostics and free emergency care services in all public hospitals. Among others, the policy raise public healthcare expenditure to 2.5 percent of GDP from the current 1.4 percent, in a time-bound manner, with two-thirds of the expense for primary healthcare. The policy also envisages providing larger package of assured comprehensive primary health care through Health and Wellness Centres which includes care for major non-communicable diseases, mental health, geriatric health care palliative care and rehabilitation care services, the release said. Besides, it aims at ensuring the availability of 2 beds per 1000 population
distributed in a manner to enable access “within golden hour.” The policy proposes to increase life expectancy from 67.5 to 70 years by 2025; reduction of total fertility rate (TFR) to 2.1 at national and sub-national level by 2025; mortality rate of children under 5 years of age to 23 (per 1000) by 2025 and infant mortality rate to 28 by 2019. The policy advocates development of mid-level service providers, nurse practitioners, public health cadre to improve availability of appropriate health human resource, it added. Unveiling the National Health Policy in Lok Sabha on March 16, Union heath minister JP Nadda said that the policy “envisages a time-bound implementation framework with clear deliverable and milestones to achieve the policy goals,” IANS reported.
Food, drink giants plot fightback as India looks to tighten rules
new delhi, MarCh 16 (reUTerS): Several food and drink multinationals and trade groups met in recent weeks to discuss how to lobby more effectively against Indian proposals for higher taxes and stricter labelling rules on fatty or sugary foods, sources familiar with the talks said. According to officials, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration has begun to look closely at policy proposals under discussion since at least 2015, raising concerns over the possible impact on the $57 billion sector. Alarmed by rising rates of obesity and diabetes, India plans to frame draft rules within a month requiring manufacturers to display the fat, sugar and salt content of products on packaging. It is also considering a nationwide "fat tax" for so-called "junk foods", a senior government official said, although that is unlikely to be rolled out in the near term. Last month, executives from companies including PepsiCo, Nestle and Indian consumer firm ITC met trade groups in New Delhi to coordinate efforts and urge the government to resist pressure from health
advocates, according to an industry source aware of the meeting. The attendees, who felt their efforts to push back had been too piecemeal, talked about forming a core group to unify their message when engaging the government, the source said. PepsiCo and Nestle in India did not comment directly on the meeting or its outcome. ITC did not respond to requests for comment. Trade group All India Food Processors' Association (AIFPA), whose members range from street vendors to global conglomerates, said two industry-wide meetings were held in February. Its members, who also discussed ways to offer more nutritious products, plan to send a joint representation to the government and approach health and food officials to express concerns about stringent regulations. PROMISING GROWTH The stakes are high for companies like PepsiCo, Coca-Cola, Nestle and McDonald's, which have collectively committed billions of dollars to expand in the world's fastest growing
major economy. India's carbonated drinks sector is estimated to grow an average 3.7 percent annually between 2017 and 2021, while the packaged food sector will grow by 8 percent a year during the same period, Euromonitor International estimates. Government pressure comes in various forms. Modi recently told PepsiCo CEO Indra Nooyi that her company needed to focus more on public health, an aide to the prime minister said. Separately, the prime minister's office asked PepsiCo to outline how it would reduce sugar in beverages sold in India, the aide added. PepsiCo did not comment on those remarks by Modi and his office. It referred Reuters to its October 2016 global commitment "to transform its portfolio and offer healthier options". Modi's office did not respond to an email seeking comment. A Coca-Cola India representative referred questions on proposed regulatory changes to the Indian Beverage Association, which said their impact was "under evaluation". Nestle corporate affairs executive
Sanjay Khajuria said the company was "working to improve the nutrient profile" of their products. "These are complex public health issues which require (a) holistic multi-stakeholder approach and we are committed to work with authorities," Khajuria said in an email. The CEO of the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), Pawan Kumar Agarwal, welcomed industry concerns about tougher rules. "It is a good thing if it helps in providing healthier options," he told Reuters in an interview. (Q+A: India's food safety regulator on new rules, read http://in.reuters. com/article/india-food-safety-regulator-idINKBN16N0JE)
PLANNED REGULATIONS The number of obese men and women in India rose to about 30 million by 2014 from 1.2 million in 1975, according to a study by British medical journal The Lancet, although the comparative figure for China was around 90 million. Concerns about the health effects of fast food and soda drinks have been growing globally in recent years.
Mexico imposed higher taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages, for example, while South Korea placed television advertising restrictions on specific food items. But India has been slow to finalise rules on products high in fat, sugar and salt, whose consumption health advocates say urgently needs to be checked to safeguard public health. Agarwal denied industry pressure was affecting the implementation of tighter regulations, adding that India was nudging companies to make healthier products while working on new rules. The FSSAI is considering advertising norms to check on health claims made by companies and is working on educating consumers about the health effects of foods containing high levels of sugar or fat. One government official said the regulator was deliberating whether disclosures about the nutritional value of food should be placed on the front of packages. Another labelling proposal under review was a "traffic light" system, where red, yellow and green colours depict nutritional value, similar
to one used in the United Kingdom. "Traffic light is making (reading labels) simple," Agarwal said. "Red people associate with danger, green is okay". But trade body AIFPA said such labelling was of no use. "Most Indian foods will be red. So what purpose does it serve?" said the group's president, Subodh Jindal. Potentially more significant for major brands would be a nationwide "fat tax", which authorities are discussing and was last year announced by the southern state of Kerala. There, branded restaurants like McDonald's and Domino's Pizza face a 14.5 percent tax, higher than that applied to smaller, indigenous outlets serving the same fare or Indian cuisine often high in sugar and fat. "It makes the larger players nervous," said an industry executive, calling the discourse on "junk food" in India discriminatory and unscientific. McDonald's India did not comment on the government's discussions on a nationwide "fat tax". Domino's India said its spokesman was not available.
fridAY 17•03•2017
WORLD
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
9
With a stroke of red pen, Myanmar’s Rohingya fear losing right to return SITTWE, March 16 (rEuTErS): Since security forces swept into their villages in northwestern Myanmar late last year, around 75,000 Rohingya Muslims have fled across the nearby border to Bangladesh. Many now fear that the authorities in Myanmar could make their displacement permanent. At least once a year, local administrators go houseto-house in the Rohingya villages of northern Rakhine State, lining up families to check their names against official lists. The names of those Muslims found missing are crossed through with a red pen, residents say. The government says it is not using the household count to try to force the Rohingya out of the country and is holding off from finalising the latest list. But officials confirmed that people eventually struck from the list face legal action under immigration laws if they try to return. Muhammad Ismail, 30, escaped the recent violence and is now living in a makeshift settlement in Bangladesh. His father told him by phone that officials had visited his home village of Dar Gyi Zarin January, checking who was still there. “I’m scared that if I go
A Rohingya refugee disabled man waits in a makeshift stretcher after he was taken by relatives to visit a doctor at Kutupalang unregistered Refugee Camp in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh on March 2. (REUTERS Photo)
back, I’ll be jailed,” he told Reuters. “This is the law. This is how we understand the rules.” The household survey, which is not conducted elsewhere in Myanmar, is one of a series of measures that rights activists say amount to a system of apartheid against the 1.1 million Rohingya living in northern Rakhine. “We have to stand for a group photo as a family,” said a Rohingya community leader, who did not want to be named. “They ask us
Worker lay-offs a grave sin: Pope VaTIcan cITy, March 16 (IanS/ aKI): Laying off workers is a “a grave sin”, Pope Francis told a group of employees from satellite TV network Sky Italia in Rome. “He who shuts factories and closes companies as a result of economic operations and unclear negotiations, depriving men and women from work, commits a very grave sin,” Francis said on Wednesday. The pontiff made the remarks at the end of his weekly general audience in St Peter’s Square, which was attended by around 12,000 pilgrims including 100 Sky Italia workers and their children. “Work gives dignity,” the Pope said, “and managers are obliged to do everything possible so that every man and woman can work, carry their heads high and look others in the eye with dignity.” Sky Italy is currently undergoing downsizing and has announced plans to move 300 employees and their families from Rome to Milan.
if all the family is there and if anyone is missing.” The authorities have also surveyed and marked for demolition allegedly unauthorized buildings in Muslim villages, residents and officials say. And Rohingyas say their movements are being restricted if they do not accept new temporary identity cards. The democratically elected civilian government of Aung San Suu Kyi says the identity card scheme will give the stateless Muslim minority more rights, but
many Rohingya say they fear it is a ruse to deny them citizenship. Suu Kyi, a Nobel Peace Prize winner, has been criticised abroad for failing to confront her country’s persecution of the Rohingya, who many in the Buddhist majority view as unwanted illegal immigrants from Bangladesh. A RED LINE Myanmar’s armed forces launched a crackdown in northern Rakhine after Rohingya insurgents attacked border guard posts on Oct.
New Zealand river granted legal status as ‘a person’ WEllIngTon, March 16 (IanS): New Zealand’s Whanganui River has gained its own identity with all the corresponding rights, duties and liabilities of a legal person, after a 170-year battle, the media reported on Thursday. Te Awa Tupua (Whanganui River Claims Settlement) Bill, which passed its third reading in Parliament on Wednesday, will establish a new legal framework for the river, stuff.co.nz reported. It recognised the river as an indivisible and living whole from the mountains to the sea. The river is a sacred and revered waterway to New Zealand’s Maori Iwi people and its interests will now be represented by an In-
digenous group. Among other things, the river could now be represented in court proceedings, Treaty Negotiations Minister Chris Finlayson said. “I know the initial inclination of some people will say it’s pretty strange to give a natural resource a legal personality. “But it’s no stranger than family trusts, or companies or incorporated societies,” The New Zealand Herald quoted Finlayson as saying. Long revered by New Zealand’s Maori people, the river’s interests will now be represented by two people. The Whanganui River Deed of Settlement was signed in 2014 and legislation was introduced in 2016.
‘Last month was 2nd WhatsApp brings back text ‘Status’ feature yorK, March 16 (IanS): profile settings,” WhatsApp was warmest Feb on record’ nEW Soon after attracting backlash over quoted as saying.
WaShIngTon, March 16 (IanS): February 2017 was the second warmest February in 137 years of modern recordkeeping, scientists at NASA’s Goddard Institute for Space Studies (GISS) in New York have found. Last month was 1.1ºC warmer than the mean February temperature from 1951-1980, according to the monthly analysis of global temperatures by the GISS team. Overall, February 2016 was the hottest ever on record, at 1.3ºC warmer than the February mean temperature, NASA said in a statement. February 2017’s temperature was 0.20ºC cooler than February 2016. The monthly analysis is assembled from publicly available data acquired by about 6,300 meteorological stations around the world, ship- and buoy-based instruments measuring sea surface temperature, and Antarctic research stations.
its Snapchat-like ‘Stories’ feature, WhatsApp has revived its text ‘Status’ option while keeping its imagebased replacement, a media report said. In mid-February, WhatsApp removed the feature that let users set a message and then gave the ‘Status’ name to a Snapchat ‘Stories’ clone. But last week, text Statuses reappeared in the Android Beta version of WhatsApp in the ‘About’ section of the profiles, Tech Crunch reported on Wednesday. “We heard from our users that people missed the ability to set a persistent text-only update in their profile, so we have integrated this feature into the ‘About’ section in
“Now, the update will appear next to profile names anytime you view contacts, such as when creating a new chat or looking at Group info. At the same time, we are continuing to build on the new Status feature that gives people fun and engaging ways to share photos, videos and GIFs with their friends and family throughout their day,” the company added. The ‘About’ status will roll out to all Android users over the next week and is coming soon to iPhone. Users can open the ‘About’ section of their profile to set a text ‘Status’ and view other people’s updates by opening their contact.
Ethiopia trash dump landslide death toll rises to 115 aDDIS aBaBa, March 16 (rEuTErS): Emergency workers in the Ethiopian capital Addis Ababa searched through a mountain of garbage for the fifth consecutive day on Thursday as the death toll from a landslide at a rubbish landfill site rose to 115. The Horn of Africa country has declared three days of national mourning for the victims of the disaster that occurred at the 50-year-old Reppi dump on Saturday evening. Two bodies were uncovered on Thursday morning, rescue workers and residents taking part in the search said, a day after a government spokesperson raised the toll to 113, 75 of whom were women. “As the number of missing people is still high, we expect to pull more bodies out today and in the coming days,” an emergency worker told Reuters. Residents of the area say at least 80 people re-
9. Tens of thousands of people fled across the border during the subsequent violence, amid multiple allegations of mass killings and gang rapes by troops. Accounts gathered by Reuters from 10 residents and refugees, and confirmed by two Myanmar government officials, show an administrative push to record those who had left began soon after the military campaign started. The household survey is usually carried out in January and February. A senior immigration official in northern Rakhine, who declined to be identified, said the count was complete this year aside from those villages worst hit by the conflict. But he said officials had only marked those missing in pencil - not the feared red pen - and were awaiting orders to finalise the survey. “This year, because it might create conflict, we’ve delayed the list,” said Kyaw Swar Tun, General Administration Department (GAD) director based in the state capital, Sittwe. “We’re waiting for them to come back.” The GAD oversees Myanmar’s sprawling local bureaucracy and is controlled by the military. He
A woman carries a photograph as she mourns her family member suspected to be missing following a landslide when a mound of trash collapsed on an informal settlement at the Koshe garbage dump in Ethiopia's capital Addis Ababa on March 14. (REUTERS Photo)
main unaccounted for. Dozens of victims have so far been buried at the Abune Aregawi Church nearby since Tuesday. Hundreds of people live near the dump, the city’s only landfill site. Some of
the victims scavenged for food and items that could be sold, such as recyclable metal. The landslide destroyed dozens of homes. Officials in the capital say they plan to resettle most of the ten-
ants and build a waste-toenergy plant. Ethiopia is one of Africa’s fastest growing economies, but the drive to industrialise has also stoked discontent among those who feel left behind.
declined to show the list to Reuters, citing confidentiality for official documents, or to say when it would be finalised. But, he added, “Once they’re on the list, they can’t come back.” On Monday the United Nation’s special rapporteur on human rights in Myanmar, Yanghee Lee, warned pressing ahead with the exercise while so many people were displaced could be seen as an attempt to depopulate Rohingya districts. “Conducting a household survey - where those absent may be struck off the list that could be the only legal proof of their status in Myanmar - indicates the government may be trying to expel the Rohingya population from the country altogether,” she told the U.N. Human Rights Council in Geneva. “I sincerely hope that is not the case.” Police Major Kyaw Mya Win at Maungdaw police station, in northern Rakhine, said authorities in the area have in the past filed charges against those who had been marked off the list. “People who fled to Bangladesh have been charged with illegal immigration acts when they returned to the country,” he said, declining to outline the specific charges.
“WE ARE NOT FOREIGNERS” Administration along Myanmar’s rugged frontier with Bangladesh is largely in the hands of the paramilitary Border Guard Police (BGP). Residents say that, soon after the conflict erupted, the BGP also began identifying structures in Rohingya villages that had been built without formal permits - including homes, mosques and Arabic schools. The GAD’s Kyaw Swar Tun said more than 3,300 buildings had been listed for demolition, but said none had so far been pulled down. Min Aung, a minister and spokesman for the Rakhine state government, said officials had ordered a halt to the checks, recognising that they could cause tensions. However, since the buildings were illegal they would have to be demolished eventually, said Min Aung, a member of Suu Kyi’s National League for Democracy, insisting that the same action would be taken anywhere in the country. “The government just removed illegal buildings like stores, houses, religious building, but they are merely huts, not really big buildings,” he said. Although many Rohingya
trace their roots in Myanmar back generations, years of discriminatory policies have left most without valid identification. Temporary cards issued in the 1990s, which gave them voting rights, were invalidated in 2015. Muslims in northern Rakhine say they are under pressure to accept a National Verification Card (NVC). “If we don’t take it we can’t travel from place to place,” said the community leader. Suu Kyi’s civilian government - which is not in charge of security and does not oversee the BGP, but has been pushing the ID card scheme - says that holders will be able to apply for citizenship. But Kyaw Hla Aung, a Rohingya lawyer in Sittwe, said the scheme fell short of the group’s demand to officially identify themselves as Rohingya - a term Myanmar does not recognise. “NVC is not related to us - it’s for foreigners,” he said. Officials denied the government was coercing people to accept the document. “The roadblocks are not stopping people from moving – but they are checking NVCs,” said state minister Min Aung. “We can’t allow people to travel without documents.”
GOVERNMENT OF NAGALAND
DIRECTORATE OF EMPLOYMENT, SKILL DEVELOPMENT&ENTREPRENEURSHIP NAGALAND: KOHIMA
NO. DET-7/85/12/II/
ADVERTISEMENT
Dated Kohima, the 16th March’2017
Applications are hereby invited from Indigenous local candidates for undergoing 1(One) Year training under Skill Development Programme at World Class Skill Centre, New Delhi. Sl. No Courses offered 1. Hospitality 2. Retail
Duration 1(One) Year 1(One) Year
Eligibility 12th pass 12th pass
Age limit 17-27 years 17-27 years
Candidates are requested to submit simple application with Bio-data, Xerox copies of educational certificates along with two passport size photos to the undersigned on or before 25th March 2017. Original certificates should be produced at the time of Interview, which will be held on 28th March 2017 at the Office of the undersigned from 11:00 am to 3:00 p.m. Selected Candidates will be given free travelling, Training, Food & Accommodations, which will be borne by the Employment, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Department Government of Nagaland. • Expected minimum salary after completion of course is Rs.15, 000/-(As intimated by WCSC which is responsible for placement of successful candidates). • 100% assured placement in leading Hotels, Tourism Companies and other Customer Services Industries in India. • Contact No:- 09436062368. Sd/- (MUTHINGNYUBA SANGTAM) Director Employment, Skill Development & Entrepreneurship, Nagaland, Kohima. Issued by: DIPR
10
FriDAY 17•03•2017
sports
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
same old problems for new-look Mclaren LONDON, MARCH 16 (REUTERS): Fernando Alonso, as frustrated as any double Formula One world champion would be in a slow and unreliable car, summed up McLaren's testing woes in terms guaranteed to make Honda executives wince. "We have only one problem, and that is the power unit. There is no reliability and there is no power," the Spaniard told reporters. Alonso did not stop there, quoted by his home media as saying he was fully motivated, the chassis felt good and everyone in the team was ready to win "apart from Honda". "I am driving at my best...I feel the best driver out there, I just need an engine that can run as quick as the others on the straights," he said. Once again, former champions McLaren are heading to the Australian season-opener with a dis-
tinct whiff of crisis around them despite their best efforts to rebrand, regroup and put the immediate past at arms' length. Media reports in Britain and Spain have suggested McLaren, who have publicly stated their commitment to Honda, could trigger break clauses and split at the end of the year unless there is a major improvement. Ron Dennis is gone already as McLaren's big boss, ousted and replaced late last year with the everenthusiastic Zak Brown as executive director. The look has changed, highly-rated Belgian rookie Stoffel Vandoorne has taken the seat vacated by 2009 champion Jenson Button, and the new black and orange car was launched with some optimism. Testing in Barcelona took away a lot of the feelgood factor, however, with both drivers struggling to get laps under their belts
McLaren's Fernando Alonso in action. (REUTERS)
due to failing power units. A website hasmclarenbrokendown.com is already up and running, joining the enduring Twitter hashtag #placesalonsowouldratherbe.
week. "I think Melbourne is going to be tough. I would be surprised if we are where we need to be and want to be by Melbourne. So it's going to be a tough start to the year." TOUGH START McLaren, who have not "Clearly we have prob- won a race since 2012 but lems," said Brown last remain the sport's second
most successful team in terms of grand prix wins, finished sixth overall last season. That was a big improvement on the 2015 slump to ninth in the first year of their new partnership with the Japanese manufacturer, but still a long way off where they want to be.
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, with team mates Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost fighting famous battles, Honda and McLaren were dominant but hopes of rekindling that magic are fading fast. The Woking-based team are looking for a title sponsor, having been without one since Vodafone left in 2012, and success on the track always helps. Alonso could walk away at the end of the season, even if he says that his future remains a discussion for the later part of the year. "It’s only winter testing. I remember 2014, Red Bull were doing like seven laps in winter testing and won two or three grands prix that year," he said. "So let’s say that the season is long enough that you can have time to react. "But right now there is no secret. We cannot pretend that we are happy and everything is going OK," he added.
NAN to participate VIT Sports cum University conducted in national c’ship
DIMAPUR, MARCH 16 (MExN): The Netball Association of Nagaland (NAN) for the first time is participating in the national level championships organized by Netball Federation of India at Happy Model School, Jhanakpuri, New Delhi. The team of ten players from the state will participate in three different categories i.e., 29th Junior National Netball Championship to be held from March 23 to March 26, SubJunior National Netball Championship to be held from March 23 to March 26 and Senior National Netball Championship to be held from March 18 to March 21, 2017. Prior to the departure of the team today mid-night, during a practice session here in the DDSC stadium, president of NAN Bishnu
Bhattacharjee said encouraging the players that they should try to learn from the championships and remember that sports have immense career opportunities. He also asked them to strive for the disciplinary award that the championships will have and keep away from any wrong habits. Nagaland Cricket Association Joint-Secretary Ahidur Rahman who also was there to encourage the team asked the players to maintain discipline throughout the events and while winning is not the most important thing that matters for a team participating for the first time, they should but remember to project a good image of the state by their actions. The secretary of NAN, Khanailal Das will lead the team.
DIMAPUR, MARCH 16 (MExN): VIT University, Chennai celebrated its University day and Sports day on March 15 as a Day with Lt. Governor of Puducherry, Dr.Kiran Bedi, IPS (Retd.) as the Chief guest. The event was organised to “celebrate accomplishments; a moment to come together and set milestones,” a VIT press release said. The event was presided over by. In his presidential address, Dr.G.Viswanathan, Founder and Chancellor, VIT University reiterated that “Education will be a remedy to remove all the maladies in our country. We should make progress in education to make economic progress”. The Chief Guest advised the students to have tangible and intangible measures, and build India by taking “part as com-
In the University Day and Sports Day Celebrations, the Chief Guest Hon'ble Lt. Governor of Puducherry, Dr.Kiran Bedi, IPS (Retd.) has honoured Mr.M.N.Mohan Raj, II year Law School Student, VIT Chennaiwith ‘International Medal Winner’ Certificate with cash award of Rs.10,000/- for his winning Bronze medal in Beach Shuttlecock Asian Championship held at China. (From Left) Ms. Kadhambari S. Viswanathan, Assistant Vice President,VIT,Chennai, Dr.G.Viswanathan, Founder and Chancellor, VIT University, Shri Sankar Viswanathan, Vice President, VIT,Chennai are also seen in the picture.
munity leaders; and to be courageous, honest with conviction and make public representations at grass root level; raise values and be a giver to society”. Dr.P.Gunasekaran, ProVice Chancellor, presented the annual report highlight-
ing the events and highly commendable achievements of Faculty and students and briefed about the Innovations in teaching – learning process. Around 1200 awards, certificates, trophies and cash prizes to the tune of
Rs.50 lakhs were given for exemplary service, significant contribution to teaching and research, stupendous achievements in academics as well as extracurricular activities for students, faculty and staff, the release said.
Frolic Football Cup 2017
DIMAPUR, MARCH 16 (MExN): The 5th Edition of Frolic Football Cup 2017 will commence from April 18 at Medziphema Town. Entry Forms are available at Moon Store (Opp. Local Ground), Below Alla-
habad Bank, Medziphema Town & Bright Printer, Block-II, Chumukedima Town. Last Date of form submission is April 12. For further details contact 7085122250 / 8974694974 / 9856175975.
All Sumi Games and Sports meet concludes DIMAPUR, MARCH 16 (MExN): The 9th edition of All Sumi Games and Sports meet was held at Kuhuboto. Akato Chophi, Kilonser GPRN/NSCN graced the closing ceremony as guest of honour and gave away the prize to the winners of various discipline. Speaking on the occasion, the guest of honour said vast responsibility rests on the Sumi Games and Sports Association to discover the hidden talent among the Sumi youngsters and to provide a platform to nurture the sporting skills through organizing such events. He therefore urged the association to be sincere and dedicated in their endeavour. Akato said events were essential not only for brining the sports persons together to exhibit their talents but also to bring the people together in friendship and unity. Encouraging the players to be able to compete and excel in the higher level of competitions, Akato Chophi said success comes only with determination and hard work. He said there was an untold opportunities for younger generations to secure their livelihood through games and sports. He was also of the view that there was a need to keep alive the traditional games and sports played and urged the association to also conduct games and sports played by forefathers. Results: Football Champion – Niuland Runners up- Aqahuto Best player – Khekuto of Atoizu team Best goalkeeper – Inaka Achumi of Niuland team Highest scorer – Hevika Shohe of Niuland team Volleyball (women) Champion – Niuland Runners up – Kuhuboto Best player – Kivikali of Kuhuboto team Badminton (men) Champion – Laghilato Runners up- Kuhuboto Badminton (women) Champion – Zunheboto Runners up – Aqahuto
public discourse
WINE AMIDST THE VINEGAR Unemployment Greatest Threat for this Generation Kahuto Chishi Sumi
G.B. Hevishe Village, Dimapur
C
onstant readers may have noticed that I tend to use derogatory terms in my letters to our Dailies; but I would like to clarify that it is not because I enjoy insulting people, especially the high and mighty of Nagaland, that I do so; but in the forlorn hope that they may be shamed into doing the right thing. And I seem to classify all politicians, bureaucrats, theologians and freedom fighters as corrupt and selfish to a man, but that is not the case. I know many among them that are as honest as the day is long; but they are too few to matter in the scheme of things, my attitude is, “If the shoe fits, wear it”. So, if it applies to any of them, well and good; but if it does not, there is no reason to be offended. Conversely, there is nothing I dislike more than “puff pieces” praising various politicians that appear, quite frequently, in our Dailies; in the form of paid advertisements and unsolicited letters to the editor. It stinks to High Heaven of sycophancy of the highest order and triggers my gag reflexes. That being said, credit must be given where it is due; not flattery, but the just due of a person’s good intentions and deeds. I have praised A.C.A.U.T. the M.T.L.T. and, as it turns out, prematurely, the N.S.F. in my letters. I never imagined that we Nagas would produce any political leader worthy of praise of any kind. Now I find that I have to give credit to the people of Bhandari for electing Mr. Mmhonlumo Kikon to our Legislative Assembly. I do not know Mr. Kikon from Adam, nor am I aware that any Lotha with who I am friendly/acquainted with has any connection of any sort with him; but he seems to be the only Legislator who knows the purpose of being elected by the people. He was the only one who questioned the hurried decision by the “oppositionless’ Government to hold the U.L.B. Elections and now he is the only one trying to address the real problems that All Nagas face on the issues of “Backdoor Appointments”, the Kerosene and Rice theft, the state of our various develop-
mental projects and, most importantly, the unpaid salaries of our teachers. The popular saying, ‘We get the Government we deserve” holds true because we elect our leaders to the government. But by this count, the people of Bhandari deserve a better government because they alone, among the people of the 60 constituencies of Nagaland, have elected a Legislator worthy to be called a “Public Leader”. Mr. Kikon is the only one who seems to understand that as a Legislator, he is not a Legislator for his family, village, clan or tribe alone, but he stands for Nagaland and all Nagas. I did not know why Mr. Kikon was removed from his earlier Ministerial Office; but I now suspect it was because he attempted to bring honesty, probity and accountability to Governance in Nagaland. I am not and have never been a supporter of the B.J.P. Party, but I have always maintained that the party recognises merit in its members. Mr. A.B. Vajpayee, I consider the greatest Prime Minister that India has ever produced, bar none. Mr. Narendra Modi could not have reached the P.M.O. if he were a member of the Congress (I), without seriously brownnosing the Gandhi family. It would do well for the B.J.P. Party, both at the state and centre, to recognise the fact that many Nagas are searching for a good and viable alternative to the corrupt and selfish people that have, so far, “served” as Legislators in Nagaland, and that it cannot, but benefit them to identify and project its members, like Mr. Mmhonlumo Kikon, if they are to have any hope of governing Nagaland in the future. Do not make the mistake that the Congress (I) did in ignoring Mr. V.P. Singh and sidelining Mr. A.K. Anthony. All right thinking Nagas must vote for the Person, not the Party. The people of Bhandari have voted for the right person; for Mr. Mmhonlumo Kikon is attempting to light a candle in the darkness that surrounds us; and that we so love to curse. May God grant all Nagas, across all tribes, the ability to recognise those like him that walk, unrecognised, amongst us. And may He grant us the Wisdom to put them in our Seats of Power. GOD SAVE OUR NAGALAND
Dr. Tialiba
Mokokchung
T
here are many threats to Naga society out of which unemployment is perhaps the greatest threat for this generation. Every year many youths graduate from different institutions, but the job opportunities are not proportionate with the number of the graduates leaving many youths unemployed. It affects their financial status, their hope and aspirations. It also loses their self-esteem because an individual’s job defines who he or she is in the society. Some become frustrated and embarrassed which even affects their mental health. It leads to depression, racking everything attached to the individual’s life, even to the extent of suicidal tendency.Looking at the scenario of
Nagaland, 11765 candidates for 74 NPSC Post will take 159 years for all the Candidates to get Job at 74 posts per year. Now every year about 10 thousand new graduates(inclusive of theologian) will be added upon 11765. If this trend continues within a period of 10 years, a generation will be wiped out by unemployment. But on the other side of the coin, there are means to challenge this threat of our generation. If a beggar is provided enough food daily, he or she will stay beggar for the rest of his or her life, unless it is worked out. No doubt, everyone have the right to seek a comfortable life. But he or she should be able first andthen follows comfort.To be able, we need to come out of the comfort zone and search for ways and means apart from government jobs. Not everyone is fortunate enough to hit
the jack pot; therefore not everyone should stick only for white collar job. With an unemployment rate exceeding among the youths of Nagas, entrepreneurship should play a vital role in creating self-employment. Along with the entrepreneurship, private sector should also be familiar to the youths. The problem of unemployment can be made less a burden if every Naga look into the possibility towards private sector. For instant, a Naga doctor have decided to employ only Nagas in his private clinic so that at least some of the youths will be employed in some capacity(he is not against non-locals rather he is happy to learn lot of constructive lessons for them andknow thatthey can survive in any corner of the earth, unlike us Nagas for now in general).Bigger role towards this private
sector can be played by the church (like other religion), the Naga political groups (unless they still believe that war is the only way to solution of Naga problem in this 21st century), and the few rich Nagas from every corner of Nagaland. By such ways and means hundreds of these young unemployed will be employed. It will provide them the opportunity in contributing towards the growth of the Naga economy and a responsible citizen instead of sitting and waiting for government job. Even in terms of choosing educational carrier, it is high time to adopt job oriented education both formal and non-formal, rather than following the colonial aristocratic education system. There can be no better timethan now to break the status quo for this generation of youngsters. If not, we should ready to face extinction!
Nagaland Public Service Commission issues clarification Khrupi Sothu
Secretary, NPSC, Kohima
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propos of the open letter written by two individuals purportedly NPSC 2016 Prelims candidates viz, Imti Jamir and Sanen of Mokokchung published in The Morung Express of 14th March, 2017 and another letter on the same subject written by Amugha and Ato Sumi published both in the Morung Express and the Nagaland Post of 16th March, 2017 . While it is not the policy of the Commission to issue clarification for all matters that has been published in media, the Commission is shocked to see such baseless allegation that only 185 candidates had crossed the cut-off mark, which it feels was made with the intention to malign the good name of the Commission, hence, this clarification again. The general public may be informed that it is always the endeavour of the Commission to conduct each and every examination in a free, fair and merit based method
without compromising the integrity of the Commission in any manner whatsoever. While conducting any examination, the Commission follows certain rules and policies that has been framed by the government from time to time. Further, selection of candidates from the preliminary stage of the examination to the next stage is based on certain parameters and guidelines such as reservation for BT, Physically Handicapped (PH), number of posts etc. It may further be noted that as per the Recruitment Rules, certain percentage of each category of posts advertised is to be reserved for the 10 (ten) notified BT tribes and PH category according to the roster drawn up by the government. Further, the present reservation policy that is being followed is that when a post is reserved for a particular tribe in a recruitment examination, the same will be kept as vacant if there is no eligible candidate in that examination and shall be taken up in the next recruitment examination as backlog vacancy.
Therefore, the short listing marks differ from tribe to tribe and even if it is so, the Commission feels that it has done no injustice to any particular tribe or candidate. If any candidate feels that there is any disparity in the short listing marks between the general and BT categories, the same may kindly be taken up with the policy makers and not the implementing agency. Presently, the reservation that is being followed for the Preliminary Examination of 2016 is based on the following; a)37 % is reserved for the 10(ten) notified BT tribes of Nagaland, b) 3% is reserved for PH candidate for some particular posts. Therefore, the total percentage of reservation is 40% and not 37% as alleged. The general public may further be informed that in view of withdrawal of one post by the government after advertisement was issued, the total number of post for which selection was done is for 73 posts out of which 44 posts are for general category and 29 posts reserved for BT/ PH category. As such, the number of
candidates selected depends on the number of posts available and also if there is any case of equal marks. The number of candidates, ie, 517 nos. who are declared qualified for the next stage of examination is made as per the relevant Recruitment Rules in the ratio of 1:7 where the number of posts is between 51 – 100 and as such, there is no cut-off marks. While freedom of speech and expression is a fundamental right of every citizen in our country, the freedom comes with a corresponding responsibility. The Commission is saddened to see that many so called candidates keep on writing baseless allegations, as is the case in the present context. The Commission once again reiterates that its doors are always open for constructive suggestion, clarification as well as criticism. However, without ascertaining the facts from the Commission, making irresponsible statements and allegations for public consumption are detrimental to the interest of aspiring candidates and certainly is casting aspersions on the Commission.
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.
Friday 17•03•2017
EntErtainmEnt
Cara Delevingne
revIseD TICKeT rATes (silver) : `.120 (Gold) : `. 200 (recliner) : `. 400
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obert Plant made an appearance Tuesday night at London's Royal Albert Hall during a performance by violinist Nigel Kennedy to sing Led Zeppelin's "Kashmir" and cover "Hey Joe." The gig, a gala concert, had been billed as Nigel Kennedy and Friends and otherwise featured mostly classical performers. Prior to singing "Kashmir" for the first time since Led Zeppelin's 2007 reunion at London's O2 Arena, Plant explained that he'd met Kennedy when he was working on 1992's Fate of Nations solo album. He'd recruited some Indian musicians for the session but was unhappy with their performance, so he got a hold of Kennedy and "this guy saved our lives." He quipped, "I don't know whether this
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she continued, “I love what they stand for, what this story represents. The process of putting this novel together has been life changing and something I hold really close to my heart!! I cannot wait to share with everyone!” Cara added that she hopes to start ‘one big virtual book club’, where she can talk to fans about ‘self discovery, friendship, pain, triumph! Being a teenager!! The experiences that shape YOU!” Mirror Mirror is already available to pre-order on Amazon now, ahead of its release on October 5. Source: Contactmusic
stunts and drama, and will finally unravel the mystery of why Kattappa killed Baahubali. The trailer was shared online by filmmaker Karan Johar, who has bought the North Indian distribution rights of the Hindi version of "Baahubali 2: The Conclusion". The trailer promises that the second part of director SS Rajamouli's epic adventure will be bigger, better and grander than "Baahubali: The Begining". The trailer also features Rana Daggubati, who plays the main antagonist, Bhallaladeva in the film. The film also stars Anushka onist Prabhas in a bloodied Shetty, Tamannaah, Sathavatar seeking revenge. The yaraj and Nassar. It will retwo-minute 24 seconds vid- lease on April 28. eo is all about high-octane Source: PTI
Ben Affleck completed treatment for 'Alcohol Addiction'
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he actor disclosed his treatment in a statement on his Facebook page on Tuesday. "I have completed treatment for alcohol addiction; something I've dealt with in the past and will continue to confront," he wrote. "I want to live life to the fullest and be the best father I can be." Affleck previously sought treatment for alcohol abuse in 2001. "I want my kids to know there is no shame in getting help when you need it, and to be a source of strength for anyone out there who needs help but is afraid to take the first step," Affleck wrote. "I'm lucky to have the love of my family and friends, including my co-parent, Jen, who has supported me and cared for our kids as I've done the work I set out to do." Warner Bros. announced back in January that Affleck was stepping down from his 'Batman' directing duties. At the time he said the decision was made because the role "demands focus, passion and the very best performance I can give." "It has become clear that I cannot do both jobs to the level they require," he said at the time. He was replaced by Matt Reeves in February. Source: CNN
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ihanna to star opposite Adam Driver in Annette, a new music drama from French director Leos Carax, Variety reports. The Los Angeles art-rock duo Sparks wrote the screenplay and new music for the film. According to Deadline, Annette tells the story of a stand-up comedian who's left to raise a two-year-old with a surprising gift after his opera singer wife dies. It's unclear what characters Rihanna and Driver will play. Rooney Mara was also originally attached to star in the movie, but dropped out due to other commitments. A replacement has yet to be announced. Annette also marks Rihanna's latest acting role. The pop star recently kicked off a run on Bates Motel – A&E's contem-
10:20 AM & 05:30 PM
Source: RollingStone
ee Dong Wook entertained his fans in a recent fan meet by dancing to TWICE's TT. The Goblin star started his fan meet tour with Seoul on March 12, which was held at the Blue Square Samsung Card Hall. The actor who has already won over the hearts of the viewers by playing the grim reaper role in Goblin, revealed the rare side of him in the said event. Going by his dance moves, it seemed like he has been practicing for quite some time, as he performed almost all the moves. However, Dong Wook isn't quite used to dancing for sure which made him feel quite embarrassed, and he held his hands up in fists before his face, out of embarrassment. As he copied the dance moves of TT, he kept on smiling, lightening up the mood of the place, completely. He kept dancing for his fans, in spite of being a little embarrassed. The shy actor pulled off the dance till the end and finished it cutely with two peace signs with his fingers. In the said event, his Goblin co-star Gong Yoo too joined him and had some fun time together. More than 1500 fans who gathered to meet the Goblin actor, got an opportunity to meet the guest stars as well which included g.o.d's Park Joon Hyung, Shin Dong Yeop, and The Return of Superman's Seol Ah, Soo Ah and Dae Bak.
trailer released
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applause and a recapitulation of some of the song's music. It was the first time Plant has performed the song without Jimmy Page. Indian instrumentation also marked the performance of "Hey Joe," a cover of the song popularized by the Leaves and Jimi Hendrix and the first song Plant performed at the gala. Two members of Plant's Sensational Shape Shifters, Justin Adams and Jon Baggott, joined him for the performance, according to LedZepNews, and what unfolds is an eerie recitation of the song's murderous lyrics against a sparse backdrop of classical atmospherics and echoey drums and guitar. It slowly congeals into a heavy miasma of strings and drums.
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ara Delevingne has announced she’s written her first novel, titled Mirror Mirror and its due out in October. The model and actress made the announcement on Instagram, describing the book as a “twisty coming-ofage story” about sixteen year old friends Red, Leo, Naima and Rose. “Another pinch me moment!!” Cara captioned a photo of herself holding a draft of the novel on Instagram. “Announcing my first novel Mirror, Mirror, coming out this October! SO EXCITED !!! “I love these characters so much,”
he action-packed trailer of "Baahubali: The Conclusion" has arrived and it shows protag-
is payback or what." Then the symphony, complete with classical Indian instruments, began the droning intro to the enduring Physical Graffiti standout in a new arrangement. First, Plant sings some of the tune's lyrics in a ponderous way over the drone before it all comes crashing down with the iconic descending brass line and Plant's more traditional vocals. Midway into the song, the band makes a full departure from the source material and indulges some chordal impressionism before the vocals and standard melodies return. It makes several similar breaks before wrapping about 10 minutes after it started – the audio file itself is nearly 18 minutes long and includes Plant's intro, some
Lee Dong Wook melts fans hearts with adorable dance moves
announces debut novel
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robert Plant's first Now ShowiNg 'Kashmir' performance since led Zeppelin reunion
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inger Shawn Mendes will make his silver screen acting debut with filmmaker Ivan Reitman's upcoming musical "Summer of Love". Mendes, an 18-year-old Canadian, is best known for his singles like "Stitches" and "Treat you better". Reitman enlisted Mendes to star in the project, which is currently in pre-production stage, reports hollywoodreporter. com. While plot details of the film are being kept under wraps, the title is believed to be a reference to the summer of 1967, when as many as 100,000 people, mostly young hippies, converged in San Francisco's Haight-Ashbury neighborhood in opposition to the Vietnam War. The summer was known for iconic musical performances in Northern California by such artists as The Who, The Grateful Dead, The Animals, Jefferson Airplane, Jimi Hendrix, Janis Joplin and The Byrds. Mendes earlier voiced a character in 2013 animated film "Underdogs".
Shawn Mendes to make acting debut
10:00 AM
Machine
12:30 PM | 08:00 PM
Badrinath ki dulhania
Source: IANS
porary prequel to Alfred Hitchcock's Psycho – as the doomed Marion Crane (originally portrayed by Janet Leigh). Rihanna has several more upcoming projects, including Valerian and the City of a Thousand Planets and Ocean's Eight. As for Driver, the actor is currently starring in the final season of HBO's Girls. He's also set to appear in Star Wars: The Last Jedi, which opens December 15th, and Steven Soderbergh's NASCAR heist movie, Logan Lucky, out August 18th.
Rihanna to Star in New Music Drama 'Annette'
03:00 PM
Beauty and the Beast
Source: Rolling Stone
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Friday 17•03•2017
SPORTS
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
Third Test: Smith, Maxwell lead Australian charge 8th Silver Cup T20 Cricket Tourney
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Ranchi, MaRch 16 (ianS): Steve Smith and Glenn Maxwell shone with the bat as Australia posted 299/4 in their first innings on the opening day of their third cricket Test against India at the JSCA International Stadium here on Thursday. At stumps, Smith was unbeaten on 117 while Maxwell was batting on 82. Smith hit 13 boundaries during his 244-ball stay in the middle while Maxwell slammed five boundaries and two sixes over the 147 deliveries he has faced. The duo have added 159 runs between them to lead Australia to a strong position. Smith was also involved in a 51-run stand with Peter Handscomb that helped to bring the Australian innings back on track after the hosts had claimed three top order wickets in the first session to force the initial advantage. This is Smith's sixth century against India and his second in this series. The Australian skipper also notched up his 5000th Test run along the way. He is the third fastest to the landmark in the history of the game, having taken 53 Test matches to achieve the feat. For India, fast bowler
Umesh Yadav returned figures of 2/63 while left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja and star off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin picked up a wicket each for India. Smith and Maxwell batted with a mixture of caution and aggression to keep the Indian bowlers at bay. Maxwell -- known for his attacking style of batting in the limited-overs formats -- played cautiously, hitting only two boundaries in the 47 deliveries he faced before tea. He was slightly more forthcoming in the
final session, and brought up his half-century in style, smashing a Jadeja delivery over mid-wicket for a six. Smith was going steady at the other end, bringing up his century with a boundary to the long-on fence off a Murali Vijay delivery. Earlier, electing to bat on winning the toss, Australia were off to a rocky start, losing three wickets in the first session. The visitors scored at a brisk rate in the initial overs with openers Matt Renshaw and David War-
ner maintaining a rate of around four runs an over. With both Umesh and Ishant persisting with a leg stump line, the Australian openers were able to find the gap at regular intervals. The Indian pacers produced appreciable speed and swing but did not get much help from the pitch which was a bit low and slow. But the introduction of spinners Jadeja and Ashwin into the attack helped to turn the tide for the hosts. Jadeja struck the first blow
GHS Thahekhu sports week underway
Morung Express News Dimapur | March 16
The annual sports week of Government High School, Thahekhu began on Thursday at Thahekhu village local ground with the village head GB, Hukiye Yepthomi as the chief guest. Speaking at the programme, Hukiye emphasized on the importance of co-curricular activities for promoting discipline and health fitness among students. He encouraged the students to give their best
Marching contingents of students prepare to perform march pass.
in the games and exhibit sportsmanship spirit by fostering friendship through such events. “Winning is not the only thing in
sports but participation matters,” he added. Later, the chief guest declared the sports week open by kicking a football. The students
also performed march pass during the inaugural programme which was attended by faculty of the school, villages elders and leaders.
when Warner lobbed a full toss back to the bowler. That slowed down the scoring rate with Renshaw and Smith managing to score only 30 runs in around 13 overs before the former was dismissed by Umesh. Renshaw tried to play a delivery which was just outside the off stump only to see the ball nick the outside edge on its way into the palms of Indian captain Virat Kohli in the slips. Pujara then pulled off an excellent diving catch off Ashwin's bowling to send back Shaun Marsh a short while later. The umpire had originally ruled Marsh not out but the Indians decided to call for the review which overturned the decision. Peter Handscomb then joined Smith in the middle and the duo proceeded to try and bring the visitors back on track with a 51-run partnership. The hosts suffered a scare when skipper Virat Kohli appeared to injure his shoulder while trying to save a boundary. Handscomb had hit a Jadeja delivery wide of mid-on prompting Kohli to give chase. The Indian skipper dived in an effort to prevent the ball from crossing the boundary line and ended up hurting himself.
Peraciezie Royals, Diphu XI & KODH CC enter QF
(LEFT) Kevilelie of Peraciezie receiving MoM award from former chairman of NBCKYD Samuel Thabah. (RIGHT) Avito of KODH CC receiving MoM award from Organising Comittee member Benjamin Zou. Our Correspondent Kohima | March 16
Peraciezie Royals, Diphu XI and KODH Cricket Club moved into quarter finals of the ongoing 8th Silver Cup T20 Cricket Tournament at Jakhama Local Ground Kohima. In the first match of the fourth day, Peraciezie Royals defeated Renegades CC Wokha by 7 wickets. Taking the bat first, Renegades set a target of 88 runs in 19.3 overs losing all wickets. Romokhon scored 23 runs while Sunil Sharma contributed highest 36 runs. Peraciezie Royals bowler Kevilelie Aso took 4 wickets while Khriesamhalie, Saroj and Renchamo took 2 wickets.
Peraciezie Royals achieved the target in 12.3 overs losing 4 wickets. Renchomo contributed the highest with 27 Runs. Kevilelie of Peraciezie Royals for taking 4 wickets in 4 overs scoring 12 runs not out. Playing the second match, Diphu XI knocked Victoria CC Dimapur by 9 wickets. Favoured in toss, Diphu XI elected to field and restricted Victoria CC at 83 runs in 17.5 overs. Victoria batsman Rio score 28 run & Ayush 15 runs while Diphu bowlers Mridul, Badal, Shibhrat and Aman took 2 wickets each. Diphu XI chased the target in 12 overs losing 1 wicket. Rahul scored 39* and was declared man of the match.
In the last of the day, KODH Cricket Club defeated Silver White by 10 wickets. Winning the toss, Silver White elected to bat setting a target of 77 runs in 18.5 overs. Sahabuddin scored 22 runs. Zevilie from KODH took 4 wickets and Avito took 2 wickets. KODH won the match in just 8 overs without losing any wicket. Man of the match was claimed by Akito by taking 2 wickets and scoring 34 runs. Matches for March 17: 1st match 7am: Radiant CC vs Friends CC 2nd Match 10am: The Juggernats vs Shillong Mavericks 3rd Match 1pm: Whiskers CC, Dmp vs Spinx CC
Atletico, Monaco enter CL quarter-finals PaRiS, MaRch 16 (ianS):: AS Monaco and Atletico Madrid became the latest UEFA Champions League quarter-finalists after eliminating their respective opponents Manchester City and Bayer Leverkusen in the return leg of the last 16 stage. Enjoying a 5-3 advantage from the first leg at their home ground, Manchester City did not play conservatively in an attack-oriented affair on Wednesday night against Monaco, who had tallied 123 goals coming into the
match, reports Xinhua news agency. Monaco striker Radamel Falcao, who scored twice in the Etihad Stadium three weeks ago, was sidelined due to a hip injury. However, a younger Monaco squad still managed to put serious pressure on Man City's defence from the first minute, and converted their upper hand into a lead just eight minutes into the game, as the 18-year-old sensation Kylian Mbappe nailed his 11th goal in as many appearances from close range.
The hosts repeated their attacking approach in the 29th minute, as Brazilian midfielder Fabinho put left back Benjamin Mendy's stitching cross into the net. The two sides tied at 6-6 on aggregate, but Monaco made it into the last eight on away goals, the second time this has happened in the past three seasons. In Madrid, Atletico restored their 4-2 lead after the first leg with a goalless draw with Bayer Leverkusen, helped by goalkeeper Jan Oblak's series of great saves.
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