C M Y K
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ThursDAY • MArch 23 • 2017
DIMAPUR • Vol. XII • Issue 79 • 12 PAGes • 5
T H e
ESTD. 2005
Thought and learning are of small value unless translated into action ‘For talks, Pak should commit to end terror’ PAGE 08
P o W e R
o F
T R u T H
— Wang Yangming
Reclaiming Humanity: A call to care for Akumdong
Warriors win ‘Curry Bowl’
PAGE 02
PAGE 12
NSCN (IM) for ‘harmonious Turtle species thought extinct in interdependent relationship’ the wild discovered in Nagaland General (Retd) Kholi Konyak
Black Soft-shell turtle classified as Extinct in the Wild by IUCN discovered in the wetlands of Old Akuk village in Wokha district Imti Longchar Dimapur | March 22
In a hugely significant finding, a fresh water turtle species-Black Soft-shell turtlewhich is categorized under the Extinct in the Wild (EW) of the Red List of Threatened Species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), has been discovered in the wetlands of Old Akuk village in Wokha district, Nagaland. This was confirmed after results of DNA sample of a turtle resembling the Black Soft-shell species captured from Wokha district, which was sent to Bangalore, arrived in the positive on March 20, 2017. The Red List of Threatened Species, compiled by the IUCN, is widely recognised as the most comprehensive, objective global approach for evaluating the conservation status of animal and plant species. Each species assessed is assigned to one of eight different categories, based on a series of quantitative criteria. Species classified as Vulnerable, Endangered and Critically Endangered are regarded as threatened; Extinct in the Wild means that these species are known only to survive in human care.
The Black Soft-shell turtle found in Wokha district.
Black Soft-shell turtle (scientific name Nilssonia nigricans) is a critically endangered species classified as Extinct in the Wild since 2002 and reported as endemic only to Assam and Bangladesh. This turtle was long thought to exist exclusively in one manmade temple pond at the shrine of Sultan al-Arefin Hazrat Bayazid Bistami in Chittagong, Bangladesh where they are dependent on humans for survival. Only recently, the species was confirmed at a few spots in the Brahmaputra River and tributaries in the state of Assam and in some of the region’s temple ponds and tanks including the Kasopukhuri pond on Nilachal Hill, next to the Kamakhya Temple at Guwahati. The discovery of this extremely rare species in the wild of Wokha district of Nagaland was made after Lansothung Lotha, a Forest Ranger under the Department of Forests, Ecology, Environment and Wildlife, Nagaland saw a picture of
a captive turtle resembling the Black Soft-shell species being circulated in social media platform and decided to investigate the origin of the photograph and possibly rescue the animal if alive. The Forest Ranger contacted Steve Odyuo, founder of Natural Nagas, an NGO working for conservation of wildlife and environment based in Wokha for assistance. On inquiry, it was learnt that the turtle, was reportedly caught from Wozhu Tsophow wetlands at Old Akuk village area and already sold to a customer. In a joint venture, Steve and Lansothung along with other wild life conservationists Suren Enny, Zanbenthung Enny from Wokha town and Nokten, Assistant Veterinary from Animal Health Care, Dimapur, after several days of gathering information, traced the turtle to one Chonchithung Kikon from Wokha town. He had purchased the turtle from a villager with the intention of keeping
it as a pet. However, after convincing him that this amphibian could be a very rare species, he willingly handed over the turtle. The turtle was then send to the Nagaland Zoological Park in Dimapur and kept under the guardian-ship of Thiru, a Zoo Biologist. Since there are other turtle species, which bears resemblance to the Black Soft-shell, for instance the Peacock Soft shell turtle (Nilssoni hurum) and the Indian Soft-shell turtle (Nissoni Gangetica), Lansothung said he dispatched a DNA sample of the captive turtle for confirmation. The DNA sample was initially send to an NGO in Assam, but with no response forthcoming, it was then dispatched to Bangalore. The rediscovery of this rare and nearly extinct turtle in the wilds of Nagaland comes as another indication of the rich biodiversity of Nagaland, which harbors a remarkable array of plant and animal species. “It is highly likely that
As India marks World Water Day, clean Governor asks Northeast and safe water still a challenge in country people to be cautious
DELHI, MARCH 22 (AP): Government records show that in 1980, just 1% of India’s rural areas had access to safe, usable water. By 2013, that had increased to 30%, but the majority of rural India continues to live without proper access to safe drinking water. A WaterAid report in 2016 ranked India among the worst countries in the world for the number of people without safe water. An estimated 76 million people in India have no access to a safe water supply, and the situation is only getting more serious. Almost 19,000 villages across the country still do not re-
ceive regular water supply. Safe drinking water, a basic amenity has become a luxury in many Indian households, especially in semi-urban and rural areas. Official figures show that each day, approximately 500 million litres of wastewater from industrial sources is dumped into the Ganga. Several initiatives by government and non-government bodies have been undertaken to deal with the water crisis looming ahead of India. The Asian Development Bank has forecast that by 2030, India will have a water deficit of 50 per cent.
DIMAPUR, MARCH 22 (MExN): Reacting to news reports regarding crimes against North East people including those affected by shady land deals in Noida, Gurgaon, Solan and other areas, Governor of Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh, PB Acharya has taken note of the situation and has cautioned the North Eastern people to be more aware and not let people hoodwink them. In a press release issued through the PRO, Raj Bhavan, the Governor mentioned that he had met the Delhi Chief Minister, Arvind Kejriwal during his visit to the capital, discussed and highlighted problems faced by the North East people in Dehil and appreciated the proposed welfare and security programme by the Delhi Government for the North East people. The Governor further lauded the Delhi police for keeping a check on the crimes committed against North Eastern people while stating that “one should be more careful in future and keep guard so as not to be lured by such unwanted elements.”
‘NSCN (K) committed to inherent Naga rights & dignity’
C M Y K
DIMAPUR, MARCH 22 (MExN): The Naga-Myanmar Ceasefire Office, Lahe town of the NSCN (K) observed the Naga Republic Day with a prayer session on March 21. A press note from the MIP of the NSCN (K) informed that dignitaries from Naga Self-Administered Zone representing various Ministries and Departments attended the prayer programme and expressed solidarity with NSCN (K). Church leaders and civil society leaders also attended the prayer service, it added. Law and Justice, Kilonser, Thom and Medical Kilonser Nyeiton delivered the welcome address and vote of thanks respectively. MIP In Charge, Col Isak Sumi spoke on the significance of the day and presented a “brief history on 38 Years of republic” and reiterated that
“no force is strong enough to defeat the aspiration of the Nagas to remain a people’s republic on the firm foundation Nagaland for Christ.” The service was chaired by Paho, CF Office Assistant and prayer was invoked by Pian, Evangelist, Lahe Baptist Church. The NSCN (K) meanwhile thanked “the Almighty for his abundant grace in sustaining the Naga people’s struggle through thick and thin and also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the common Naga mass, the Churches, civil societies including the Naga Mothers, Students, apex tribal Hohos, individual businessmen and various professionals for assisting the Naga National Movement in various capacities without any reservation for the last nearly three quarter of a century till today and most assuredly in the days to come too.”
It further remembered the “priceless sacrifices of the pioneers and thousands of courageous Naga patriots that which inspires us to continue the struggle to this day despite overwhelming odds.” It also honoured “every brave Naga soldiers fighting in the frontlines and those being held in various prisons and permanently maimed while in the line of duty.” The NSCN (K) meanwhile asked “every Naga across the length and breadth to be steadfast in their commitment towards the just cause and to uphold in prayer NSCN/GPRN under the leadership of S.S.Khaplang...” It further affirmed that the NSCN (K) would “under no condition yield to the treacherous forces at work every day but hold on to the inherent rights and dignity of the Nagas at the cost of our lives.”
there will be more population of the Black Soft-shell turtles from where it comes from,” an excited Lansothung observed while adding that the finding is an important record, not only for the state, but for science as well. According to a source from Akuk village, the villagers, unaware of the turtle as a nearly extinct species, had been capturing them from the lake for human consumption and commercial purpose. “At least 5-6 such turtles are captured every year from the wetlands,” the source revealed. Lansothung said a proper survey of the habitat where the turtle was found need to be done at the earliest besides earnest awareness and capacity building for turtle conservation in the village communities. He also pointed out that it is impossible to bring in conservation without awareness. Natural Nagas founder Steve Odyuo said the rediscovery of the rare Black Soft-shell turtle in the wild adds another feather to the rich biodiversity of Nagaland “The authorities should now put in all efforts to conserve the only natural habitat in the world,” he stated. “Biodiversity in Nagaland is so rich that there is a lot to be discovered and documented, efforts have to be made to create awareness, document for the success of conservation,” Steve pointed out. The rediscovery of this nearly extinct amphibian gives hope for a species that has been thought to be extinct in the wild.
DIMAPUR, MARCH 22 (MExN): NSCN (IM) General Secretary, Th Muivah today stated that the NSCN (IM) is for “harmonious interdependent relationship with our neighboring peoples and nations on the basis of mutual respect and recognition of right.” In a statement, Muivah however stated that it is opposed to the politics of isolationism and jingoism. “Our neighboring people and nations should be our political and defense partners. They should also be the hinterlands of our markets and industries. We have lived with them for thousands of years and we will do so in years to come,” he added. However, he also affirmed that the NSCN (IM) clings to the principle of self-reliance. This doctrine of self-reliance is applied in all fields - political, economic, military, educational, cultural and science and technological, he stated. Stating that “our national movement is principle-based,” he affirmed: “so our fighting and negotiation are also principlebased and that solution has to be principle-based.” The Framework Agreement, Muivah noted, recognizes the unique history, the identity, the sovereignty, the territories of the Nagas. “It also recognizes the legitimate right of the Nagas to integration of all Naga territories. It also says co-existence of the two entities and share-sovereignty of the two entities,” he added. The NSCN (IM) General Secretary stated that the agreement does not betray the principle and assure that “it is one of the strong
& General Secretary, Th. Muivah re-elected for 6 years
DIMAPUR, MARCH 22 (MExN): A Council meeting of the NSCN (IM) held on March 22 at Council Head Quarters, Hebron re-elected and re-affirmed Vice Chairman, General (Retd) Kholi Konyak and General Secretary, Th. Muivah for another term of 6 years. The meeting was attended by more than 3000 active NSCN members, informed a press note from the MIP of the NSCN (IM). The NSCN (IM) leaders were administered an Oath of Allegiance and Secrecy by Domai Dani Saheni, Convener, National Judiciary Board (NJB). All the Reverends of Council of Nagalim Churches (CNC) invoked God’s blessing upon the two elected leaders. Further, all the active NSCN members who attended in the meeting re-dedicated their life by declaring vow before God and the people by appending signature that “they will be loyal to the sacred cause of the nation to the end and also will be loyal to the principles of the council of the NSCN and the Collective Leadership with impeccable integrity and justice”. To mark the meeting, a brochure of ‘The Line of National Socialist Council of Nagalim’ defining the concept and purpose of the council was published and circulated by the Ministry of Information & Publicity (MIP). foundations for amicable solutions for the Nagas at this given point of time, rejection of which will take the Nagas back to far behind of others.” It will, he said “safeguard the present and the future of the Nagas.” He further called upon all members to “inculcate the spirit of ‘my people and my Lord’ so that he may discipline his body and mind perfectly.” He stated that every NSCN member is “exhorted and rectified through the principle of reward and punishment.” The good workers are rewarded whereas the errant workers are punished so that the position of the organization is strengthened and consolidated, he said.
While pointing out that “collective decision is far superior to that of the wisest dictator,” Muivah said that the “NSCN practices the collective decision making culture.” “Problems are analyzed among the authorities on the basis of objective information to arriving at concrete decision. Failures and achievements are evaluated objectively. The culture of collective decision making dispels the doubts and distrusts caused by non transparency in the matter of financial, political, military, administrative decision and formulation of program and policy. Collective decision making culture is the essence of democracy,” he claimed. Full text on Page 10
Sumis replace usage of GB with ‘Akukau’ Morung Express News Dimapur | March 22
The Sumi Kukami Hoho (SKH) has resolved to replace usage of the title Gaon Bura (GB) with ‘Akukau’ in all Sumi villages. ‘Akukau’ in Sumi dialect means ‘Village Chief’ and the title has been used since time immemorial and handed down through generations as part of the Sumi customary practice. This was one of the 7-point resolutions adopted by the Sumi Kukami Hoho during a meeting of all Sumi GBs including representatives from Northern Sumi Kukami Hoho, Eastern Sumi Kukami Hoho, Western Sumi Kukami Hoho and Sumi Kukami Hoho at Kiyezhe village, Dimapur on Wednesday. Another resolution adopted stated that there would not be any age bar for any Sumi to be appointed as GB since as per Sumi customary practices, GBs are inherent and hereditary. The SKH also resolved that any Sumi Head GB could become the Chairman of his Village Council. Another resolution stated that there would not be any criteria such as population or number of household for eligibility of any Sumi village to appoint a GB. “If any new GBs are to be appointed in a village, then the Head GB will have the power to make such appointment in consultation with other GBs in the village,” it stated. Further, it was resolved that those Sumi individuals appointed by the State Government in wards, towns, colonies, sectors etc might continue to use the title GB since their appointment was time bound and not hereditary. “They (GBs appointed by government) cannot use the title ‘Akukau’ since it is handed down through family lineage,” it added.
The SKH also resolved not to accept any appointment of GBs made by the State Government in Sumi villages. In order to carry forward these resolutions and approach the appropriate authority, the house selected a 7-member Sumi Kukami Hoho Resolution Drafting Committee to be led by Ex-Minister, Hewoto Awomi as the Convenor. Earlier, Executive Secretary, WSBAK, Rev. Hevukhu Achumi delivered a brief sermon on the Gospel during the first session of the meeting while Western Sumi Kukami Hoho, President, Vihuto Yeptho delivered the welcome address. During the second session, Nihoto Chishi, retired Secretary, Law & Justice, highlighted on the powers and functions of GBs and various Acts passed by the government since 1937 in connection with village and tribal councils. OSD, Department of Justice & Law and Advisor SKH, Khesheli Chishi, District and Sessions Judge (retd), Khevihe Chophy and host of the meeting, KL Chishi, former Chief Minister also exhorted the gathering.
‘Govt not following procedures in passing Acts’ Justice, H. Khetoho Sema, Supreme Court Judge (retd) on Tuesday maintained that the State Government was not following proper procedures in passing many Acts. Justice Sema said that the government has to first introduce a bill in the Assembly before passing the Act. “The Nagaland Government only refers to a Select Committee after which an Act is passed in the Assembly,” he said during a meeting of Sumi GBs at Kiyezhe village in Dimapur on Wednesday. He emphasized on the urgent need for the State to have Law Com-
mission, Human Rights Commission and Lok Ayukta in order to keep a check on corruption and other excesses committed by the government or individuals/groups. The retired Judge said it was most important for Nagaland to have State Law Commission since proper procedures were not followed in enactment of laws and Acts. “If Lok Ayukta is adopted by the State Government, then it (Lok Ayukta) can act as a corruption watchdog but the government is shying away from adopting it since their grazing fields will vanish,” he asserted. On the issue of 33% reservation for women in Urban Local Bodies, Justice Sema said that the State Government was “legally and constitutionally right but hasty” in trying to implement it. The retired Judge also described it as “absolutely wrong” the government’s notification issued on March 10, 2016 which stated that a GB cannot become Chairman of a Village Council. He said the notification was an infringement of Sumi customary practices which is safeguarded under Article 371 (A) of the Indian Constitution. Justice Sema also criticized the government’s decision to set an age bar for a person to become a GB. According to the speaker, a GB or village chief in Sumi customary context is inherent and hereditary and hence there cannot be any age bar to become a village chief. “Our democracy is still a mockery and it is the people who will have to bring a change,” he said and added that the Indian Constitution has safeguarded Naga customary laws and practices but that the Nagas were mishandling it. Justice Sema urged upon the GBs to strongly uphold their principles without taking any sides.
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ThursDAY 23•03•2017
NAGALAND
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
Reclaiming Humanity: A call to care for Akumdong Morung Express News Dimapur | March 22
Students at Queen Mary Higher Secondary School in Mokokchung begun to empty their pocket money on Monday and Tuesday to benefit a boy whom they have never meet. All they know is that eleven year Akumdong, a student of St. Thomas Montessori School in Dimapur, is in desperate need of prayers and financial support as he is being taken care at the ICU in Apollo International Hospital, Guwahati because of a major brain tumour surgery. A teacher working at Queen Mary Higher Secondary School informed that an announcement was made Monday morning at the school through the PA system informing about Akumdong’s condition and to collect donation for his cause. “Following the an-
(Left) Akumdong. (Right) Students of Queen Mary Higher Secondary School, Mokokchung led by their principal (standing extreme right) handing over the money to Pinnacle Centre in Mokokchung on March 21.
nouncement, the principal’s office was crowded because the students wanted to donate their pocket money. Some of us have to dismiss them from the office and requested the respective class teachers to collect the money. We could pull together almost thirty thousand which was handed over to Pinnacle Centre in Mokokchung,” he added. He also informed that the school does not allow the students to bring
more than ten rupees as pocket money. Akumdong, a resident of Naga Gaon Colony in Signal Basti is described by his teachers and parents as a very bright student who scored star marks. A fourth-grader at St. Thomas Montessori School could no longer attend classes due to his sickness. His father, Chubalepden describes his son as being an active and energetic boy until one
morning in January this year when he suddenly fainted and that is when they started taking him around for treatment in various hospitals. On March 17, 2017 Akumdong was operated for brain tumour at Apollo International Hospital, Guwahati and since then he is being taken care at the ICU. For the family and relatives, their primary concern is Akumdong’s recovery, but needless to say
they are in need of financial assistances. “Our relatives know that I don’t have a job but they are helping us as much as they can. But besides them, we are overwhelmed by the support from his school, individuals, NGOs, churches and other unknown donors. We are estimating that the bills for the surgery and other medical expenses will be minimum three lakhs,” his father shared while calling for more prayer and all possible help. Besides the donation drive undertaken by the QMHSS, a similar fund drive has also been initiated by The Naga Blog, a social media platform on facebook.
Resource persons, Justice H. K. Sema, Supreme Court Judge (Retd) and Nihoto Chishi, Retired Secretary, Law & Justice seen with others after a meeting of all Sumi GBs at Kiyezhe village, Dimapur on Wednesday. (Morung Photo)
CSC launches legal literacy prog in Nagaland
Dimapur, march 22 (mExN): The inaugural function of legal literacy progamme through Common Service Centre (CSC) in Nagaland State level was conducted at Dimapur DC Office Conference Hall on March 21. The programme was chaired by district manager of Dimapur Khetilo followed by welcome speech. The aims and objectives of LLP project was highlighted by CSC State Project Details for financial aid: Manager, Nukshilemla who is also State Name: Ayangla Imsong Coordinator for this Project. Imti Imsong, A/C No. 20103882985 Sr. Advocate, President of Dimapur Bar AsSBI Bazar Branch, Dimapur sociation was the main resource person. A Mob: 09856392109 total of 22 district manager of CSC and 15 Village Level Entrepreneur (VLE) attendAdd: Naga Gaon, Colony ed the programme. Signal, Dimapur
A press release further informed that the purpose of the project implemented is to share information with rural citizen especially women and marginalized about basic laws and rights which constitution and Government of India provided for every individual. The main objective of this project is to educate the rural people by spreading the Legal Literacy awareness related campaign. The topic covered in this training session will be Fundamental Rights, Women Rights, Code of Criminal Procedure, Right To Education, Lok Adalat and right to information. The VLE will be conducting LLP training to their respective district from March 25 onwards for all the citizen of Nagaland.
National Handloom Expo in Kohima Call for wider participation of intellectuals in politics
The National Handloom Expo is underway in Kohima at Gorkha Panchayat Public Ground, Chandmari, opposite Government Printing Press. It was formally inaugurated on March 22 by N. Hushili Sema (IAS), commissioner & secretary, Industries & Commerce, Nagaland. This Expo, organized by Nagaland Handloom & Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited, Dimapur (a Government of Nagaland Undertaking) and sponsored by Office of the Development Commissioner (Handlooms), Ministry of Textiles, Govt. of India, New Delhi, will go on till April 4. (Morung Photo)
Dimapur, march 22 (mExN): NPCC President, K. Therie addressing the students of Tetso College, Dimapur, made a call for wider participation of intellectuals in politics so that society would benefit from their wisdom. Therie said that corruption having been systemized at every level and the youth have a major role in initiating and bringing about change for the better. He said that there are a multitude of CSSs given by the Government of India which do not reach the intended beneficiaries and that the state's economy is also in a mess. Citing examples of proxy voting by young individuals during elections, he called upon the youth to be firm in their moral ethics and to participate in a positive way as the future belongs to them and their decision and actions in a few months' time
Section of students attends the programme at Tetso College Dimapur.
would determine it. In a well attended programme, Therie emphasised the need for students to develop skills towards careers they choose. He urged the students to develop the culture of hard work and said that on the other hand, expecting to be paid without doing any work is a crime against so-
ciety. Highlighting 'health insurance', 'one classroom', the Naga political problem and economic development amongst others from the NPCC Roadmap, Therie said that the way forward to achieving clean governance through a clean government is for the people to elect God-fearing
leaders who will provide a God-fearing Government. A press release from the Press Secretary of Therie stated that the programme was chaired by Hewasa Lorin, Vice Principal, Testo College, while Dr. P.S. Lorin, Principal, Tetso College, welcomed the NPCC President and his team and invoked God's blessings.
Clean Election seminar on Mar 25 NYK Kohima bring youth together through convention St. John College observe valedictory programme
Dimapur, march 22 (mExN): Dimapur Urban Council Chairmen Federation (DUCCF) in collaboration with ACAUT Nagaland will conduct a seminar on Clean Election on March 25 at Sakus Mission College auditorium hall, Landmark colony (PWD), Dimapur from 2:00 pm onwards. The main speakers will be a member from NBCC Clean Election Committee and Khekiye K. Sema IAS with special presentation by Dreamz Unlimited. DUCCF information & publicity secretary in a press release said that this seminar is organized in support of the NBCC clean election movement and it is crucial that the urban populace are sensitized and are strong in their resolve to stand by the clean election movement, thereby, they can effectively deliver the message to their families
and relatives in their native villages and home towns. It also added that NBCC Pledge on clean election will be taken by the delegates representing the respective colonies under DUCCF for which the Dimapur Baptist Pastors' Fellowship (DBPF) has consented to lead, conduct and pray for the delegates for the pledge taking exercise. In the meantime, all student bodies, youth organisations, apex tribal organisations, NGOs and civil society organisations in Dimapur district and elsewhere are invited to attend the seminar cum pledge taking programme in the interest of clean elections and corruption free society. All the colonies under Dimapur Municipal area are requested to attend along with the required number of delegates as circulated to each colony.
Kohima Deputy Commissioner Rajesh Soundararajan with others during District Youth Convention in Kohima on March 22. Our Correspondent Kohima | March 22
Several youth club representatives from all seven RD blocks under Kohima district today converged here as Nehru Yuva Kendra, Kohima organized District Youth Convention at LCS Building. Kohima deputy com-
missioner Rajesh Soundararajan (IAS) graced the occasion as the chief guest. Addressing the convention, Soundararajan explained the demographic dividends and stated that, where there is vast number of unemployment, there will be negative demographic dividend in the
Vikheho Swu
(Cabinet Minister, Government of Nagaland)
Khesheli Chishi
(OSD & Principal Secretary, Department of Justice & Law, Government of Nagaland)
YouthNet
Clean Election : Framing the issues in Nagaland Please note: Registration is free but seats are reserved on a first-call/email, first-serve basis. This advertisement is an official invite to anyone willing to participate.
Peter J. Banks, Energy & Environment, UK
Dimapur, march 22 (mExN): The St. John College Dimapur observed valedictory programme on 22nd March 2017 at College campus. Peter J Banks, Energy and Environment engineer, UK, delivered the exhortation to the students. He encouraged the students to be doubtful in everything we learn and to find the truth in them. Peter also stated that
the Bible is the only truth which he encouraged to be the foundation of one's life. The programme started with an invocation by Toshi Imchen, Pastor, St. John College, and it was followed by special presentation and speech from students and lecturers. The programme ended with benediction followed by photo session and light refreshment.
‘Spoken word poetry with The Four Felons’
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community. He asked the youth club leaders to proactively channelize youth energy to positive direction and prevent from negative practices such as drug addicts, alcoholism. He also stressed on the need to take up skill development and entrepreneur-
ship venture. The deputy commissioner also encouraged the youths to establish a concrete Model Youth Club so as to move forward in all aspects. Also exhorting the gathering, Jackie Ruivah, state director NYKS Nagaland encouraged the youths to take up skill development and stay connect with NYKS and the government to avail various facilities and opportunities. 81 youth from 45 youth clubs including Angami Youth Organisation, Angami Sports Association, Fountain Club (State Level Youth Club Awardees) turned up at the convention. Earlier, Ruokuovikho Chale delivered keynote address. The function was chaired by Visieno Yakhro while vote of thanks was proposed by Khrieketou Kere.
: Saturday, April 8, 2017 : 12:00 pm – 03:00 pm : DABA Elim Hall Duncan Bosti, Dimapur
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Functional English department of Kohima College organises workshop
Kohima, march 22 (mExN): Spoken word poetry workshop was conducted by Functional English department of Kohima College, with ‘The Four Felons’ as the resource persons on March 21. Spoken word poetry is still at a very nascent stage in Nagaland and as such, relatively unknown. However, these four young ladies Dzüvingünuo Dorothy Chasie, Akule Lasuh, Shürhonuo Tsürho, and Inatoli Jimo, who are currently pursuing their master degree at N.U, had inspiring and encouraging ideas to share. They urged the students to use this medium as
Students with ‘The Four Felons’ during the spoken word poetry workshop conducted by Functional English department of Kohima College on March 21.
a creative outlet to express opinions and thoughts on issues and subjects that touch our lives and leave an impact. Also, in this age where we find ourselves easily connected to other people and culture, they reminded the students to use poetry to heal and not to injure others.
The programme was chaired by Hütülü Chuzho. Poetry read by Ketosüle Ltu and Moapongla Longchar, a guitar recital by Sentener Aier and vote of thanks delivered by Kekhriesetuonuo Solo, informed a press release received here. In their interaction with
the Functional English students of Kohima College, The Four Felons described their journey so far, their thoughts and passions, the process that goes into each performance they make, and how each original creation of theirs is an expression of their spiritual and earthly nature.
THURSDAY 23•03•2017
NORTH-EAST 3
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
Manipur Congress MLA faces disqualification IMPHAL, MARCH 22 (IANS): Manipur speaker Y. Khemchand told the assembly on Wednesday that a notice has been received seeking disqualification of T. Shyamkumar, who was elected on a Congress ticket. Shyamkumar was elected from Andro seat on the Congress ticket in the March assembly elections but he shifted his allegiance to the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) post-polls. Khemchand said: "The notice is under process". The speaker was replying to K. Meghachandra of the Congress who raised the issue in the assembly on Wednesday. Meghachandra said: "Ten MLAs had submitted a notice seeking disqualification of Shyamkumar. Everybody knows that he had defected." "It must be first in the country for an MLA who was elected on a party's ticket thus became a minister of another party. There
has been no response from the speaker," he said. Reacting to news reports on his defection, Shyamkumar had said though he was elected on the Congress ticket, he had resigned. However he did not elaborate. Meghachandra said: "Though people know that he had crossed the floor, the details are not known as yet." The support of Shyamkumar was crucial since the BJP, which had secured 21 seats in the 60-member assembly managed to claim the support of 32 MLAs. The strength of the Congress, the single largest party, was whittled from 28 to 27. T.N. Haokip, Manipur Congress President, told IANS that Shyamkumar joining the BJP to become a minister was without the knowledge and approval of the party. "He has been expelled for six years," Haokip added.
Tripura gas production doubles
AGARTALA, MARCH 22 (IANS): State-owned ONGC has more than doubled its gas production in five years in Tripura brightening prospects of setting up of more gas based projects, officials said here on Wednesday. "ONGC has more than doubled its production from 6,450 lakh cubic metres of gas in 2012-13 to 13,820 lakh cubic metres in 2016-17," a spokesman of the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) said. The company is presently supplying gas at a rate of 45 lakh cubic metres per day to various power projects, to run vehicles on compressed natural gas (CNG) and supply piped natural gas (PNG) to households for cooking purposes and crematorium. The spokesman said that as part of enhancing drilling activities, the rig fleet has been increased from three rigs in 2015-16 to seven rigs in 2016-17, with one more rig under tendering stage. "With the addition of
IIT-Guwahati students build 600cc car for weekend racing KOLKATA, MARCH 22 (IANS): To promote a weekend culture of racing in a safe environment, a team of IIT - Guwahati students has built a racing car that zooms off from 0 to 60 km/hour in 5-6 seconds. Christened 'Tachyon' after the hypothetical concept of particles that move faster than light, the fabrication of the sleek black car, involved a team of 27 mechanical engineering students who participated in the design and manufacture process that began in October 2015.
"There is no culture of Formula racing in India. Most of the people enthusiastic about racing take to the streets. So, we wanted to promote a weekend culture of racing in a safe environment," Nihar Bharadwaj, one of the members of the team, told IANS on Wednesday. Bharadwaj said that the basic motive was to learn the engineering aspects and thus they manufactured the vehicle themselves. The vehicle is powered by a 600cc petrol internal com-
bustion engine. It has a top speed of 110-120 km/hour. The thrust is on acceleration. Tachyon re cently grabbed the second spot in a category of the Formula Bharat engineering design event that was held in Coimbatore. "The racing event we went to mostly focuses on ability to corner and make sharp turns. For that, we need lower speed but significant acceleration and pick-up so we modified our transmission accordingly," added Bhardwaj.
Poor broadband affecting banking services in NE NEW DELHI, MARCH 22 (PTI): Poor broadband connectivity has severely affected banking services in parts of the North East for the last two weeks, an MP from Arunachal Pradesh said today and asked the Centre to address the issue. Raising the issue in the Lok Sabha, Congress member Ninong Ering said lakhs of people have been affected by disruption of the banking services due to poor internet connectivity. "How will people go for cashless transactions when the internet connectivity is very poor? The banking services have been affected in various areas of
the North East for last two weeks. The problem must be addressed at the earliest," he said. He said laying of optical fibre cable has been affected in the Northeastern region due to "red tapism" and the central government should intervene in the matter. AIUDF member from Assam Badaruddin Azmal talked about delay in finalising the National Register of Citizens in the state and asked the Centre to look into the issue. BJD MP Bhartruhari Mahtab sought relaxation of norms under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation
AFFIDAVIT
I, Shri Namkum solemnly declare that my wife’s name was wrongly entered as Izaihingle in our daughter’s Academic documents which has now been changed to Izoihingle by an affidavit before Notary Public Vide Regd. No 1141/2017 Dated 22/03/2017. Namkum, Deponent
scheme so that infrastructure development of small cities can also be taken up under it. The Centre has planned to invest nearly one lakh crore rupees for strengthening infrastructure of 500 cities under the Smart Cities Mission and the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation scheme. The Atal Mission covers cities and towns with a population of one lakh and above, Mahtab noted and said it should be brought down to 35,000 population so that small cities can also benefit.
these rigs, the number of wells drilled in the state has gone up from 10-12 wells in 2015-16 to 15 wells in 201617. It plans to drill 22 wells per year in the next three years." ONGC Tripura Asset is also augmenting its gas processing capacity from 49.5 lakh cubic metres per day in 2015-16 to 57.5 lakh cubic metres per day in 2016-17 by setting up of a GCS (Gas Collection Station) at Sonamura in western Tripura. "To further boost the gas processing capacities two more big GCS would be set up in Gojalia (in southern Tripura) and Agartala Dome in western Tripura by April 2019," the official said. The spokesman said the exploration activities in the entire northeastern India are being monitored by Assam and Assam-Arakkan Basin operating from Jorhat in eastern Assam. "Four forward base offices located at Nazira, Jorhat and Cachar - Silchar (all in Assam) and
Agartala also monitored the exploration activities in the region. The Assam and Assam-Arakkan basin comprises of two geological structures of Assam Shelf," she added. The official said that as part of its continuous efforts to enhance gas production in the state and to supply all the consumers on sustainable basis, ONGC Tripura Asset has taken lot of initiatives for augmenting its resources and expanding its operational activities across Tripura. ONGC, which has been operational in Tripura since 1972, has so far drilled about 212 wells in Tripura more than half of which are gas-bearing. The company has also earlier commissioned its first commercial power project in India, located in southern Tripura and run by ONGC Tripura Power Company (OTPC), a new company formed by ONGC, Tripura government and Infrastructure Leasing and Financial Ser-
vices Limited (IL&FS). The 726 MW capacity gas-based combined cycle power project (using both water and natural gas), located at Palatana, 60 km from Tripura capital here, has been supplying electricity to the seven northeastern states. ONGC has also planned to set up a Rs 5,000 crore fertiliser plant in northern Tripura in association with the state government and Chambal Fertilisers and Chemicals Ltd, a Rajasthan based private company. "Electricity is being supplied to seven of the eight northeastern states from the Palatana power project. Also 100 MW of power is being supplied to Bangladesh since March 23 2016," another ONGC official said. "The generation capacity of the OTPC power project is likely to be increased to 1,090 MW from the existing 726 MW in near future. Works are going in this direction," a top OTPC engineer told IANS on condition of anonymity.
UNC lifts indefinite ban on national projects Newmai News Network Senapati | March 22
The United Naga Council (UNC) has said that its indefinite ban on all construction works of the national projects including the trans-national highway and also the picketing of Manipur government offices in 'Naga areas' have also been lifted along with the lifting of the economic blockade on March 19 midnight.
UNC General Secretary S Milan said that all forms of agitation launched by the Naga body has been lifted following the "fruitful" talks of Sunday. He expressed hope that with the coming of a "new government in Manipur and a new leadership and new initiatives," things will turn for a better. The UNC also expressed hope that the government will be practical to what "it assures" to the Naga people.
EDEN HR. SEC. SCHOOL, DIMAPUR Churches Colony, Near Lotha Baptist Church
POST VACANCY
1. English Teacher – 1 Post Education Qualification: M.A. (English) 2. Environmental Education Teacher – 1 Post Education Qualification: M.Sc. (Life Science) 3. Computer Teacher – 1 Post Education Qualification: Graduate (Any Stream) with PGDCA Interested candidate to submit handwritten application along with Xerox copy of academic documents to Principal on or before 27th March 2017.
AFFIDAVIT Regd.No: 239
Meghalaya's wanted criminal nabbed in Assam TURA, MARCH 22 (IANS): Meghalaya's most wanted criminal, William Sangma, was arrested on Tuesday by Assam Police in Bongaigaon district, a police official said. "Assam Police informed us William and his accomplice Niksrang Sangma were arrested after a chase in Bongaigaon town in Lower Assam," Dalton P. Marak, the district police chief of North Garo Hills, told IANS. He said the Meghalaya Police will seek a transit remand of William and Niksrang since they are
wanted in this state in several cases. This month, William along with three accomplices escaped from a police checkpoint in Thapa Darenchi area in North Garo Hills. However, police seized a China-made carbine, rifle, pistol, cache of ammunition and army fatigues from William's abandoned car. William is wanted in several murder, kidnapping and extortion cases in Assam and Meghalaya, and had floated a new militant outfit United A'chik
OFFICE OF THE
PHUSACHODUMI WOMEN WELFARE ORGANIZATION PHEK DIST : NAGALAND
FELICITATION
We the Phusachodumi Women Welfare Organization extends our heartiest congratulations to DIG, CISF RTC Arakkonam, Vitsoneino Khamo, daughter of Lt. Tony N. Khamo on being awarded the President’s Medal for Meritorious service by Union Minister of state for Home Affairs, Kiren Rijiju on CISF Raising Day on the 10th of March 2017. The organization further wishes and pray to God Almighty to guide and grant her more success in all her further endeavours. Vikhotuono Chuzhu President, PWWO
Viravonuo General Secretary, PWWO
Two vacancies for the post of Law-Officer at Human Rights Law Network, Nagaland Unit. The organization is looking for advocates, who are dedicated for working in the field of human rights. Advocates who have a year of practicing experience or more may apply for the post. Fresher’s can also apply; however, selection will be done if only exceptional. The Fresher’s applying must have cleared the All India Bar Exam and enrolled under any Bar Council. It will also be expected of the advocate to have a fair writing skill, drafting skills, communication skills and representing cases in the court. Interested and eligible candidates may drop in their Curriculum Vitae in the email address below, latest by the 29th of March, 2017. Email id: nagaland@hrln.org Co-Ordinator, Human Rights Law Network, Nagaland Unit. +91-9612409898
Housing and Urban Development Corporation Ltd. (A Govt of India Enterprise) HUDCO Regional Office, Kohima, Assistant Development Commissioner, Planning Office Building, DC Office Complex, Kohima-797001, Nagaland. HUDCO Ltd (A Govt. of India Enterprise) is looking for office space with a carpet area of around 500 sq.m in prime location at Dimapur with all infrastructure facilities and parking space. Last date/time of sale of Bid document and submission will be 7th April, 2017 during office hour from 09:30 AM to 03:00 PM. For detailed NIT and further modification/ corrigendum, please refer to HUDCO website www.hudco.org. Regional Chief, Kohima Mobile 8974053850 Email id- rohudco_kohima@yahoo.com
National Front with Norok Momin. "He is also wanted for the abduction of Tapas Bhowmik, a businessman from Siliguri. The businessman was released after his family paid a ransom," Marak said.
Date: 21/3/2017
I, Smti. WATINUNGSANG D/o MARNUNGDEN permanent & presently residing at Longjang Village, Dist. Mokokchung, Nagaland do hereby solemnly affirm and declare an oath as under: 1. That my name is inadvertently recorded as Watinungsang Lkr in my Service Book, but my actual name is WATINUNGSANG which is recorded in my all other official documents. 2. That the above mentioned names Watinungsang Lkr and Watinungsang are one and same person which is referred to me. 3. That, from the date of this declaration, my name shall be used as Watinungsang for all official purpose and legal proceedings and at all times and occasions. Deponent Solemnly sworn before me by the deponent. Notary Public, Zunheboto: Nagaland
TRANSFORMATION CRUSADE 2017 Theme “Arise and Shine” Venue: Kohima Local Ground: Time: 4:30 PM
MARCH 23RD PROGRAMME
Praise & Worship: Avi Yongo, Koinonia Baptist Church Worship Team. Leader: Pastor Surjay Sapkota, Nepali Baptist Church. Pianist: Mrs. Seyieno Neo. Cantor: Mr. Vizosietuo Neo. Vision of Transformation Crusade : Mr. Khotuo Yaotsu, Convenor. Invocation & Offertory Prayer: Pastor Kedo Peseyie, City Church. Speaker: Pastor, Velavoyi Keyho, Phezoucha Nagamese Baptist Church.
4
thursDAY 23•03•2017
nagaland
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
Health mela at Tongtongo sub-center held Wokha, March 22 (MExN): The District Health Society, (NHM) Health & Family Welfare Wokha organized and conducted a one day health mela at Tongtongo SC under Ralan, block Wokha on March 17. A team of nine doctors led by Dr. Enrithung CMO, Dr. Dr. Tumchobeni Dy.CMO, Dr. Zuben Kikon DVBO, Dr. Zathung DPO(RCH/UIP), Dr. Mhonchan ZLO, Dr. Benchilo DTO Dr. Emmanuel SMO, Dr. L.A Kikon, (O&G) Dr. Nzanthung (Dental), Dr. L.T Tsanglao MO Dr. Liphamo along with Ophthalmic Assistant, Labtechnician, from RNTCP, NVBDCP, MICTC, Pharmacist, Nurses, attendants, DPM (NHM), DPO (DAPCU) provided medical aid
The Medical Team with SDO(C) Ralan Thungchanbemo and other officials at Tongtongo SC Health Mela.
during the mela. A total of 261 patients availed free medical checkups. 4 CU-T insertions, 8 ANC check-ups, 10 dental extractions 20 ophthalmic cases (refractive errors), 2 cataract, 35 blood test on
WSBAK leadership training for concludes DiMaPur, March 22 (MExN): Around 110 Youth Pastors attended a threeday leadership training for Associate Pastor Youth (APY) at Aküvüto Mission Centre from March 9 to 11. The training was conducted by the Western Sümi Baptist Akukuhou Küqhakulu (WSBAK). The resource persons were Rev. Dr. Ezamo Murry and Aldrin Bogi, Area Executive Director, Biblica. The former spoke on understating youth psychology and issues facing the young people today while the latter dwelt on the Bible management among the youth and discipleship. The Secretary, Department of Youth Ministry, WSBAK Rev. Aheto Sema in press note extended gratitude to both the resource persons for their resourceful lessons and all the Youth Pastor’s for their cooperation in making the training a grand success.
Malaria, 6 sputum tests, 20 Blood glucose and MICTC Team conducted 12 Blood tests. Free medicines were provided to the patients. FGD sessions on the importance of Maternal Child health, Family
Planning, Immunization, breastfeeding, JSY, JSSK, leprosy, Iodine. Nutritional packs were given to the pregnant and lactating mothers. Posters, handouts, leaflets on different health topics in local dia-
lect were distributed to the villagers. Earlier, in a brief gathering R. Hayithung Ngullie, former Assistant General Secretary, LSU chaired the programme, invocation prayer by Rev Renpomo Humtsoe of Ronsuyan village, short speech by Chairman VCC Old Ralan, Shri, Thungchanbemo Tungoe SDO (C) Ralan declared open the Health Mela. The CMO and his staffs would like to express our gratitude to DC Wokha Shri Wezope Kenye for arranging additional medicines for the health mela, Soren Kikon CDPO, Wokha for the nutritional food items for distribution and to the public of Ralan area for the co-operation and support rendered in making the Health Mela a success.
A series of KTM bikes--Duke 390 MY 2017, DUKE 250 MY 2017, DUKE 200 MY 2017, RC 390 MY 2017 and RC 200 MY 200 were launched on Tuesday by Kuhoi Zhimo, former Councillor, DMC Ward No. 5 after a dedicatory prayer by Kinto Zhimomi at Walford KTM. The programme was attended by large number of bike enthusiasts.
School health prog at TMT HSS Pfütsero PfütsEro, March 22 (MExN): The Department of Health and Family Welfare, Phek organised School Health Programme on the role of AYUSH (National Ayush Mission) at Tewelhi Medo Tyrannus (TMT) Hr. Sec. School, Pfütsero on March 17. Dr. Sabina, Medical Officer of AYUSH, Phek was the resource person. In her session, she highlighted few herbs and plants which can be used as medicine for anemia, anorexia, bad breath, chapped lips, common cold, cough, dandruff, pimple mark, dysentery, conjunctivitis etc, informed a press release. The programme ended with yoga demonstration by Kelhou-
weapons display and motivation lecture was held at TMT Hr. Sec. School, Pfütsero on March 20 with Captain Anand Thakur, Post Commander, ACoy 9th Assam Rifles, Pfütsero as a resource person. In his address, Captain Anand lauded the school authority for allowing them to conduct such programme. He briefly explained the weapons and their functions to all the students from Class I till Class XII. The motivation lecture dwelled on the role of Indian Army and their functions, the release said. The students were informed about the criteria of joining the Indian Army and different facilities the Arms and weapons display Meanwhile, arms and Army provides. zasie Lawrence. Yoga, he said, is not a religious practice but a group of physical, mental and spiritual practices or disciplines which originated in ancient India. He asked the students and staff not to have wrong concept about it but to embrace it as an exercise to be done daily. Earlier, the Principal, Reynald Pyngrope thanked the department for organising such programme. Stating that AYUSH has become a part and parcel of the health care in the present society, he stressed on the use of herbs available around the locality for treatment of any sickness.
A modern hygienic fish Kiosk constructed by the Department of Fisheries, Government of Nagaland and funded under the negotiated loan of NABARD, Rural Infrastructure Development Fund XX during 2015-16 was handed over to the proprietor by Ketusielie Angami, Deputy Director of Fisheries, on March 21 at Phek town. The programme was chaired by Yhunsenlo Kent, Assistant Director of Fisheries.
Army recruitment rally in Kohima MoN, March 22 (DiPr): An Army Recruitment Rally will be held at Indira Gandhi Stadium, Kohima from May 18-30 for candidates of all districts of Nagaland. Online registration for the rally will begin on March 19 and it will continue till May 12. The details of Recruitment Rally have been pasted at the notice board of the office of the District Public Relations Officer’s (DPRO) Mon. A interested candidates of Mon have been directed to visit DPRO’s office and avail information detail about online regis- Lithrongla G. Chishi, IAS, Secretary, Cooperation Department and Director, Administrative Training Intration, physical Eligibility, Test at rally site, stitute, Nagaland with resource persons and participants of the three training for SICS / JICS conducted Syllabus, etc. from March 18 to 21.
leisure
CROSSWORD # 3894
SUDOKU
Answer Number # 3889
std code: 03862
DiMaPUR ACROSS 1. Log home 6. Absent Without Leave 10. Helps 14. Positive pole 15. Casino game 16. Parasitic insect 17. A friction�match 18. Custard dessert 19. Hue 20. Squadron 22. Not difficult 23. On the left or right 24. Pantry 26. Ailments 30. Nonclerical 31. A type of evergreen tree 32. Weight loss plan 33. Nights before 35. Audio communications 39. A former Turkish term of respect 41. Berthing 43. Parisian subway 44. Trigonometry (abbrev.) 46. A romantic meeting 47. 2,000 pounds 49. Lyric poem 50. Blackthorn 51. A type of dome-shaped structure 54. Matured 56. Back 57. Unmerited 63. Ricelike pasta 64. Japanese wrestling 65. Subarctic coniferous forests 66. Place 67. Dash 68. Toward the outside 69. Not more 70. Austrian peaks 71. Marsh growth DOWN 1. Eatery 2. Rectum 3. Pear variety
Simple Rules - Fill in the grid so that every row, every column, and every 3x3 box contains the digits 1 through 9.
Game Number # 3890
Under the initiative of Director of Fisheries, Kevisa Kense the Department of fisheries organized distribution of floating fish feed programme for small, marginal and progressive fish farmers of Tuensang District under Blue Revolution (Neel Kranti) on March 21. District Fishery Officer, Rongsenkumzuk distributed Floating Fish Feeds to 45 fish farmers of Tuensang District. (DIPR Photo)
4. Notion 5. Requires 6. Sworn statement 7. Pike (fish) 8. By mouth 9. Lacking companions 10. Subsequently 11. Homeric epic 12. Compacted 13. Nymph chaser 21. Angered 25. Relating to aircraft 26. As just mentioned 27. Vitality 28. Not right 29. Resembling snoring 34. Iotas 36. Found on rotary phones 37. Within 38. Curved molding 40. Newbie (slang) 42. S-shaped moldings 45. Chart showing routes and streets 48. Queasiness 51. Facetious 52. Eagle’s nest 53. Stares 55. Discourage 58. Nonexistent 59. Dash 60. Briskly (music) 61. Quaint outburst 62. Fathers
Answer to Crossword 3893
W
R
ACtIVe oUrseLVes AGAIn Pens AUtHor PerMIssIon BroKe ProCeed CAre ProGress dAre Protest deeM QUest deVotIon rePort eXPeCtAtIon resPonsIBLe FICtIon rewInd FInest sAMe GAVe seCUre HoVer seeK IntrUde sees JoIns sHoP Keen stAnd LArd strInG Lent sUMMer LoVes tAInt totes MedIA toUr MUtUAL treAt nAMe
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
O
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
63.92 79.07 7.97 49.26 45.64 47.91 56.51 68.72 1.78 0.0551 16.84 8.98
66.80 82.88 8.87 51.67 47.87 50.24 59.70 72.03 1.99 0.0614 18.76 10.00
Thursday 23•03•2017
NAGALAND
FGN celebrates 62nd Republic Day All Nagas must remember pioneer leaders of NNC: Viyalie Metha Our Correspondent Kohima | March 22
The Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN) today celebrated the 62nd Naga Republic Day here at Transit Peace Camp. “Today as we celebrate our 62nd Republic Day, all Nagas must remember the pioneer leaders of the NNC and salute their splendid services rendered to the nation,” said Gen. (Retd) Viyalie Metha, Kedahge, FGN after unfurling the Naga national flag at the celebration, where Naga National Council (NNC) president Adinno Phizo was also present. He said the entire nation must remember that it was these patriotic leaders who laid down the foundation of “our” nationhood. Gen (Retd) Metha recollected that on March 22, 1965, a Democratic Federal Republic called the Federal Government of Nagaland was proclaimed at Parashen in the Rengma region of Nagaland. The same FGN entered into an international ceasefire agreement with India on September 6, 1964.
Gen. (Retd) Viyalie Metha takes salute during the 62nd Naga Republic Day in Kohima on March 22. (Morung Photo)
“On this auspicious day, the nation also must remember the events that followed the inauguration of the Federal Republic of Nagaland in 1956. That due to heavy Indian military operations and attack of the planned site, the venue was hurriedly changed to Parashen in the Rengma region and inaugurated there,” he added.
JSUN calls ‘indefinite bandh’ of GHSS Jalukie JaluKie, march 22 (mexn): The Jalukie Students’ Union Nagaland (JSUN) has called for “indefinite bandh” of GHSS Jalukie from March 24 for “not honouring the MoU signed between the Nagaland government and the Old Jalukie Village Council during the establishment of Jalukie Town for appointment of Grade IV staff to the landowner.” A press release from JSUN President, Haizin Mpom and General Secretary, Pehiato Hingleu said that the union regarding the issue had approached the Education Department with due formalities and subsequently 15 days ultimatum was served for appointment of landowner candidate. “However, our rights were turned down without any respect.” “In this connection we are compelled to show our resentment by calling indefinite bandh till our demands are fulfilled in letter and spirit. The inconvenience that may befall the student community and concerned staffs for no fault of theirs is regretted during our democratic protest in upholding our rights,” the union added
DAPO laments delay in pension for PwDs peren, march 22 (mexn): The Differently Abled People’s Organisation (DAPO), Peren today alleged that the department concerned has failed to regularly disburse the pension for People with Disabilities (PwDs). A press release from president of DAPO, Peren, Ngaugongbe pointed out that the pension for PwDs is to be received every year by the beneficiaries. To substantiate the claim, DAPO highlighted that the disbursement of pension for the years 2013-2014 was done by the department in August 2014, and for the years 2014-2015 in March 2016 though delivery dates differ for towns and villages or sectors wise. “It is clearly shown that even the disbursement of the pension for the years 2015-2016 is high time to be delivered at this time. However, the Department till today did not give any signal on delivery of the pension which is long awaited by the People with Disabilities (PwDs),” it lamented. Further, the organization expressed regret that the department has failed to address the rights and needs of the PwDs in general. The funds and facilities meant for PwDs, it asserted, “must not be misused or delayed unconditionally rather such funds and facilities should be delivered in time according to the channel provided in a just and fair manner.” It hoped that the department will deliver the pension of the People with Disabilities at the earliest.
The mass burning of villages all over Nagaland, he said, was unleashed as soon as the Naga Republic Day was inaugurated on March 22, 1956 although the burning of villages in Nagaland had started in the Tuensang area at Huker as early as April 18, 1955. “But in spite of all the trials and sufferings that our nation had un-
dergone in all the past years, God on his part has faithfully preserved our republic which was in the first place dedicated to His name and glory on the 22nd March 1956,” Gen. (Retd) Metha said. He further said if the present generation betrays all the sacrifices and achievements and surrender “our” republic to another country, then they will have to “live the rest of their lives in shame and infamy.” “God Almighty, who is the giver of our nationality and our country forbid that such a tragedy should ever overtake our nation. On the contrary, may our republic, dedicated with the commitment of Nagaland for Christ and established with the blood of so many martyrs finally become a beacon of light for Asia and even the whole world,” he hoped. FGN kilo kilonser Shevohü Keyho chaired the celebration, while Rev. Pamo, pastor, Khiamniungan Baptist Kohima and Dziesevilie Kesiezie prayed for the celebration. Elevation Choir, UBC Kohima and Col. Ala and friends presented songs.
Rengma Selo Zi hoists Naga national flag at Parashen Tseminyu, march 22 (mexn): The Rengma Selo Zi (Youth Organization) today hoisted the Naga national flag at Parashen, the place where the “Naga Independent Flag” of the then newly formed Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN) was first hoisted on March 22, 1956. A press release from Press and Media Cell, RSZ said that when the Naga constitution/Yehzabo was passed by the NNC on January 14, 1956, Nagas’ “long march for freedom from India” intensified in all the Naga inhabited areas, including Rengma country. “Subsequently, the plan for hoisting of Naga Independent Flag came into being thus Ciethu near Chiephobozo under Kohima district was surveyed but Indian Army foiled the attempt and consequently AZ Phizo along with his comrades, notably Whenha Rengma, decided to hoist the First Naga Independent flag at Parashen on 22nd March 1956,” it recollected. RSZ further noted that it was at Parashen on March 22, 1956, the first Tatar Hoho was held and the NNC, representing the Naga Hill District and Hongking Government, representing the free Nagas, “freely and willingly merged into a single entity known as the Federal Republic of Nagaland and in addition established the Federal Government of Nagaland (FGN).” Consequent upon this development, the Naga Safeguard was changed into Naga Home Guard with General Thungdi Chang as the Commander-in-Chief, it
National seminar at Tetso College, St. Joseph’s College Dimapur, march 22 (mexn): Tetso College and St. Joseph’s College are organising two-day National Seminar at their respective colleges on March 24 and 25. The UGC sponsored National Seminar at Tetso College is being organised by the Department of Sociology in collaboration with Young Indians (Yi), Nagaland Chapter Seminar on ‘Challenges & Issues of the Tribals in India’. The seminar is open to all interested public, a press
release informed. Registrations will be from 9:00 to 10:00 am on March 24, while the inaugural session will begin at 10:00 am. Professor A. Lanunungsang Ao, retired Pro-Vice Chancellor, Nagaland University will deliver the keynote address at the inaugural. The seminar will comprise of four academic sessions that include paper presentations from academicians around the country such as Delhi University, TISS Mumbai, Puri Foundation, Gujarat,
West Bengal and more. A panel discussion will also be held on day two focussing on challenges and issues prevalent in Nagaland. For additional information about the seminar, contact: 7085173657 or 7308635537 or email seminar@tetsocollege.org. At St. Joseph’s College, Jakhama, the Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of the college is organizing the National Seminar on ‘The Best Practices in Higher Education for Quality Management’
sponsored by NAAC on March 24 and 25 at 10:00 am. Dr. B.S. Madhukar, Adviser, NAAC, Bangalore will give the keynote address. A press release informed that the seminar provides a platform for the administrators and policy makers of higher education institutions, faculty members, IQAC Coordinators and Research Scholars to explore the seven criteria that contribute to the efficient and effective functioning of the institution as well as the outcome.
SJHSS Tuensang alumni informed Tuensang, march 22 (mexn): All the alumni of St. John's Higher Secondary School (SJHSS), Tuensang who had either studied or passed out from the school have been requested to enroll in the Alumni Association SJHSS Tuensang. A press release from the association has requested to submit the filled particulars along with the given below fees/contributions at the earliest in view of the golden jubilee celebration of St. John's Higher Secondary School, Tuensang from April 21 to 23: Permanent registration fee – Rs.10/-; Annual membership fee – Rs.100/-; One time jubilee contribution for the school – Rs.1000/- each. For the convenience of
those who want to pay the fees/contributions, the association has provided the details of its current account: Current account name – Alumni Association SJHSS Tuensang; Account No. – 36592314415; IFSC – SBIN0001328. Meanwhile, it was informed that the Jubilee Committee and school authorities have extended invitations to all the alumni. Therefore, the association has requested all the alumni of the school who are stationed in Tuensang and other villages/ towns/cities/abroad to attend the said jubilee celebration without fail and “grasp this opportunity to meet and mesmerize our childhood days once in a lifetime.”
Members of Rengma Selo Zi after hoisting the Naga national flag at Parashen on March 22, 2017.
added. Gen. Thungdi Chang was the one who hoisted the flag at Parashen on March 22, 1956 in the presence of AZ Phizo and other Naga patriots, it was informed.
Meetings/AppointMents TSUD career guidance seminar on March 25 The Tenyimi Students’ Union Dimapur (TSUD) in collaboration with Pinnacle Skill and Pro Rural will be organizing a skill development cum career guidance seminar on March 25 at Town Hall, Dimapur from 10:00 am. A press note from TSUD President Azo Wetsah and General Secretary A Shyerhunlo Lorin has invited students, unemployed youth and other interested individuals to attend the seminar. For further information, contact the TSUD president and general secretary at 9862675997 and 9856585169 respectively.
Fathers’ School in Tening Tening Village Baptist Church under Liangmai Baptist Association (LBA) Nagaland is organizing Fathers’ School at the church from March 29 to April 2. The Kohima Ao Baptist Church will conduct the event with their own materials and expenses. Chairman of Men Society Tening Village Baptist Church (MSTVBC), Panlinbo Newmai has expressed happiness to the Kohima Ao Baptist Church for voluntarily serving people reaching even in a remote area like Tening. He has also urged all the fathers of Tening Village Baptist Church to prepare themselves to attend such rare opportunities.
PWUK fellowship gospel service The Phekmi Welfare Union Kohima (PWUK) will hold fellowship gospel service on April 9 at Capital College of Higher Education, Kohima at 1:00 pm. Velavoyi Keyho, pastor, Phezoucha Nagamese Church Kohima will be the main speaker. He will speak on the topic “Unity in Christ.” The service will be led by Vikedu Nienu. All the members of PWUK have been requested to pray for the programme and attend it.
PNU annual general assembly
World Oral Health Day was celebrated at Community Educational Center School, Dimapur, on March 20 with the motto ‘Live mouth smart’. Seen here is Dr. Meysenla Angh of Shamakok Dental Clinic, Dimapur sensitizing the students and teachers of the school on the importance of oral health and care.
Poumai Naga Union (PNU) has convened its annual general assembly for the year 2016-17 on April 5, 10:00 am at Purul Atongba village to elect the new office bearers, give audit report of the mentioned period and to discuss other agendas. Assembly affairs PNU P.S. Shelavei has requested all the constituent units and other concerned members to attend the assembly session.
World Water Day observed in Nagaland ‘Adopt rain water harvesting, water recycling’ Dimapur, march 22 (mexn): CHILDLINE Dimapur observed World Water Day with the women, children and staff of Women Short Stay Home, Prodigals’ Home and Wondang Ki charitable foundation on March 22 at Women Short Stay Home here to create awareness about the importance of water. The resource persons were Azhupeo Kape and Gracy Rolnu, both class 12 students from Greenwood Higher Secondary School and Christian Higher Secondary School Dimapur respectively. The two had represented the State at the national level training on Sustainable Development Goal in Delhi. Azhupeo stressed on the importance of conserving water not only for ourselves but also for the future generation. He mentioned that 663 million people in the world are living without safe water. Encouraging the participants to educate oth-
NGOs called to participate in water conservation Kohima, march 22 (mexn): The Department of Soil and Water Conservation today observed World Water Day in collaboration with Group for Environment Management and Services (GEMS), a Nagaland based NGO involved in environment and water issues, at the conference hall of the Directorate. The programme was held with a view to address water concerns with the theme ‘Wastewater’.
Imkongneken Ao, Director, Soil and Water Conservation spoke about taking action on water issues, UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2030 to improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping and minimizing release of hazardous chemicals and materials, halving the proportion of untreated wastewater and substantially increasing recycling and safe re-use globally.
He called for wastewater and its cycle to be carefully managed during every part of the water cycle: from fresh water abstraction, pre-treatment, distribution, use, collection and post-treatment, to the use of treated wastewater and its ultimate return to the environment, ready to be abstracted to start the cycle again. The Director also advocated the participation of NGOs in water conservation, while expressing that the De-
partment looks forward to working in collaboration with NGOs on the same. Impa Longkumer, President, GEMS shared inputs and suggestions where NGOs and Department of Soil and Water Conservation can work together for the welfare of the people. A documentary which highlighted the real water scenario and its challenges in the state of Nagaland was screened at the programme.
NCC raise awareness on water conservation Participants of the World Water Day celebration at Women Short Stay Home, Dimapur on March 22.
ers about the importance of water, he also emphasized on the need to adopt rain water harvesting and water recycling for sanitation and gardening. Gracy Rolnu shared on the presentation of Water 2070 by Lt. Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam. Conservation of water, she stressed, has to start now and today.
She led the participants in taking The Water Pledge which read, “I take an oath to conserve water and to use water wisely. I pledge to consume water judiciously and not to waste even a drop of water. I will treat water as the most precious treasure that I possess and consume it accordingly. I pledge to motivate my fam-
ily, friends and neighbours to use water wisely and not waste it. It is our planet and only we can save it.” The programme concluded with a short presentation about CHILDLINE, a project under the Ministry of Women and Child Development by Amanwange Newmai, CHILDLINE team member.
Kohima, march 22 (mexn): 1 Nagaland (G) Bn NCC under the aegis of NCC group HQ, Kohima observed World Water Day on March 22 in all the 11 districts of Nagaland through its institutions. A total of 300 cadets across the districts participated in the drive to ‘Save Water Save Life’ by means of various events like poster making, essay writing, lecture, presentation, rallies, demonstrations and took pledge to save water and create awareness in the society, according to a press
release received here. The initiative, the release said, aimed to focus attention on the importance of fresh water and advocating for sustainable management of fresh water resources. 25 Nagaland Independent Company NCC Mokokchung also observed the day by creating awareness on water conservation and storage. Classes were held for the NCC cadets to impart awareness on the same in Mokokchung, Longleng, Mon, Tuensang and Zunheboto. Thereafter, the
cadets with posters and placards in vernacular language rallied through the lanes of the districts HQ thereby generating awareness on importance of water conservation by saving water, reducing and reusing wastewater and rain water harvesting, a separate press release informed. The importance of rain water harvesting, storage and saving of water were adequately explained in the classes by professionals of various government and semi government water conservation agencies, the release added.
6
THURSDAY 23•03•2017
IN FOCUS
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
The Power of Truth
The Morung Express
C O M M E N T A R Y
Garga Chatterjee
A Political conspiracy against the When the arts Union of India’s federal structure VOLUME XII ISSUE 79
By Aheli Moitra
fail the people
I
n January 2014, the ‘Jaya He, GVK New Museum’ opened at Terminal 2 of Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. The project aims to be a museum of ‘narratives’ that seek to ‘represent’ India. Open only to folks who can afford a flight ticket, the art works created for the ‘New Museum’ form part of six thematic compositions by about 100 artists. The museum is awe inspiring in scale and dreamy sequences of the "country’s rich heritage” can pass passengers by in a jiffy unless otherwise planned. Couple of months back, a friend decided to make space to explore. The photo he chose to send our way was of a Morung bed. Classified as ‘Furniture’ found in Naga territories along the Indo-Burmese border, timed at ‘early 19th century,’ the piece was restored by a scenographer who curated the museum. Much other Naga art and craft is used under the section ‘Thresholds of India’, sub section ‘India Silent Sentinels’, with Nagas becoming the only community to feature under ‘Northeast India’ (at least on its website). The art works, whether shawl renditions or carved wood panels, have been recreated by non Naga artists. On the museum website, one description panel reads: “Historically a warrior people, the Nagas are a loosely related, fiercely independent group of tribes, frequently engaged in armed raids against each other who practiced head-hunting up until the end of the 19th century CE…” Nowhere does it mention that much of the Naga artifact projected as ‘Indian heritage’ were burnt down by the Government of India’s armed forces since it invaded and occupied the Naga areas in 1956. According to Gen. (Retd.) Viyalie Metha, Kedahge of the Federal Government of Nagaland, on their 62nd Republic Day, more than 645 Naga villages were burnt to ashes. Some villages were burnt multiple times after people rebuilt them; even granaries, whose doors are now being cherished as ‘New Museum’ exhibits at the mega Indian airport, were not spared in order to starve the Naga people. A colleague’s grandfather was known for his single wood carvings of a Morung bed, and even the village log drum whose sound, they say, could be heard from all neighbouring villages. During the ‘groupings’ (a torture method used by the Indian army) of Naga villages in 1950s and 60s, all of this was burnt down. Without any conglomerate sponsorship or elite aspirations under the garbled language of ‘contemporary arts’, grandfather’s work belonged in the ashes, signifying a method of colonization that sought to remove even the memory of independently inhabited spaces. Alas the method did not work so well given the unprecedented celebration of Naga Republic Day in all its glory by Naga national groups on March 21-22, 2017. Amidst all this, the GVK New Museum under the Indian national banner head of ‘Jaya He’ (Victory Forever) has co-opted Naga art works without any sensitivity or justice to the pillage, murder and destruction of the symbols that constitute the Naga body politic. This shameless loot of Naga identity to make a museum ‘representative’ of ‘India’, reducing the Naga people to warring tribal entities, is what Naga elders had forseen while embarking upon their journey to remain an independent selfdetermining community. There is nothing ‘new’ about it - decades of this discourse has produced violence and led to marginalisation of the Naga people. It will be 70 years since humanity, respect and power have been denied to the Naga nation; the Naga areas are not the “silent sentinels of India,” they are the sentinels from where people are screaming hoarse at us to re-examine the nation of nations we refer to as the Indian Union. If contemporary museums want to represent India’s stories, at least they should present a truth that does not trap us in an unjust past but opens apolitical possibilities towards a just future. It should guide us where political will and ability have failed. As a start, this needs honesty in presenting ‘narratives’ by situating them in their proper context. The nationalist-capitalist venture called the ‘Jaya He GVK New Museum’ fails miserably in that pertinent duty of the arts. Discussion points may be sent to moitramail@yahoo.com
LEFT WING |
Nita Bhalla Thomson Reuters Foundation
Rural Indians without water equivalent to UK population
I
ndia is home to the highest number of rural people without access to clean water, and faces increased strain on scarce resources due to a rising population and climate change among other factors, a development charity said on March 21. WaterAid said over 63 million rural Indians - the equivalent of the population of Britain - do not have clean water to drink, cook or wash with, largely due to remote locations, weak infrastructure and poor planning. China ranked second with almost 44 million rural people without clean water in WaterAid's report. Nigeria and Ethiopia were in third place - each with more than 40 million rural people without safe water, according to the study released ahead of World Water Day on March 22. "A majority of these people come from poor rural communities and any significant variation in the climate only worsens their daily struggle to access clean water," V.K. Madhavan, WaterAid India's Chief Executive, said in a statement. "With 27 out of the 35 states and union territories in India disaster prone, the poorest and the most marginalised across the country will bear the brunt of extreme weather events and climate change and will find it the hardest to adapt." Around 663 million people globally are without clean water, with almost 80 percent - 522 million - living in rural areas, WaterAid said. Many are in countries that are already highly vulnerable to extreme weather such as cyclones, floods and droughts. The rise in climate-linked extreme weather events is likely not only worsen their plight, but also leave millions more water insecure, it said. Diseases such as cholera, blinding trachoma, malaria and dengue are expected to become more common and malnutrition more prevalent. Rural farming communities will struggle to grow food and feed livestock amid soaring temperatures. Despite being one of the world's fastest growing economies, India ranks amongst countries that are most vulnerable to climate change, yet least ready to adapt, according to the Notre Dame Global Adaptation Index. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has prioritised sanitation since sweeping to power in 2014 - launching a "Clean India" campaign which aims to provide toilets for all and end open defecation in the country by 2019. But the task is mammoth. Around 76 million Indians need improved water sources and 770 million require proper toilets, WaterAid said. As a result, 68,000 children under five die annually due to diarrhoeal diseases caused by unsafe water and poor sanitation, it added.
The Union wants to starve States to make them completely dependent economically on Delhi, and then arm-twist them to fall in line with its policies
O
n the issue of port development in West Bengal in general and the development of the proposed Tajpur port in particular, the Union government has been showing a stance that reveals its antipathy to the development of infrastructure, communication and economy of this Bengali homeland. When the BJP led NDA government took over the Union government of the Indian Union in 2016, what they proposed was “co-operative federalism”. Narendra Modi, the Chief Minister of Gujarat till then, touted this as the ushering in of some kind of a new era of Centre-State relations that would be based on co-operation. That slogan now stands exposed, as an extremely naked form of centralization has taken shape. This spans from huge powers enjoyed by extra constitutional entities like Niti Ayog to blackmailing States on UDAY and APMC acts, as well as various other despicable ruses to disempower states – economically, administratively and politically. In short, Delhi is running an unprecedented political conspiracy against the federal structure of the Indian Union, all under the public relation exercise called “cooperative federalism”. Now, in case of West Bengal it has gone one step further by threatening to renege on a port project promise and becoming an active inhibitor in the economic development of West Bengal. It is a matter of utter shamelessness and victimization of a state that is on an economic recovery path. After destroying the Calcutta port through systematic abuse and denial of funds, the Union government in the Bengal Global Business Summit last year announced with much publicity its plan to develop a port in Sagar, West Bengal. It announced the amount of investment and also stated that rail linkages of the port to the main railway system would be built which would help the port supply chain and common people in the area alike. After having systematically denied funds to West Bengal for ages in every field and continually deindustrializing West Bengal for decades by freight equalization policy, this announcement was indeed some cheerful news for the people of a state which contributes hugely to the Union exchequer through its coal, jute, tea and income tax but gets some pitifully low amount of funds in return. In short, it is one-sided loot orchestrated on a debt ridden state. West Bengal is not alone. This is the case with other states like Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. These
so-called “central funds” are, thus, funds generated in the state itself – received via Delhi, which keeps its cut. However, business has been booming in the seas of West Bengal. Kolkata Port Trust (KoPT) had its highest ever container throughput of over 6 lakh TEUs at Kolkata Dock System (KDS) in the current financial year 2016-17, compared to the previous highest of 5,77,749 TEUs handled in 2015-16. In view of this increase in demand, the West Bengal government also planned its own separate port at Tajpur, backed up by private investments. In the flawed federal system of the Indian Union that doesn’t allow a state government to chart its economic development path, even in the permission for setting up of a forward looking initiative like the Tajpur port, the Union government has tried its best to spread thorns in its path. At first, the Union government simply resorted to blackmail saying that if Tajpur port was set up, Delhi would pull out of its Sagar port plan. Gone are the tall assurances made publicly. Gone are the concerns for railway connectivity that were promised. The Union government probably views the people of this area not as its own citizens but beings whose mobility and development can be used as a bargaining chip against the initiatives of the Government of West Bengal. It also shows that notwithstanding its tall claims of “Sabka Sath, Sabka Vikas” (With everyone for everyone’s development), it is finally the state government that has a single minded responsibility and concern about the welfare of the people of West Bengal. The Union government is simply interested in grabbing a share of lucrative resource. Thus, it wanted 75% stake at the Tajpur port! In its magnanimity, the West Bengal government offered a compromise and offered 25% stake. But for the imperious government of Delhi, that is not enough and since then it has done all in its might to create roadblock after roadblock in the creation of the ports at Tajpur and Sagar, raising specious concerns about viability. That is quite rich from a government that runs an airline with tens of thousands of crores in a subsidy plan. The Union government is becoming an obstacle in the economic development of West Bengal which otherwise has a bright future potential in the port infrastructure business and logistics field as evidenced by multiple reports by reputable international agencies. This situation would probably not have arisen if the West
Bengal government had promised to hand over the Tajpur port development project to a particular Gujarat based corporate group, a hot favourite of the Union government which bags huge projects and has near monopoly rights for an array of money making businesses, all approved by the government. It is probably not accidental that the current Prime Minister of the Union government had been seen using private plane facilities belonging to this same corporate group, which also is among the top ten loan defaulters in the Indian Union. With such defaulting crooks being among Delhi’s hot favourites, who needs Pakistan printed fake notes to destroy the economy? West Bengal is the only state in the Indian Union’s eastern coast without a deep sea port which is reckoned to be crucial in the economic development. This shows the amount of neglect and loot that West Bengal has been subjected to since Partition. What is interesting is that no viability questions are being raised about the proposed Tajpur port vis-à-vis the private Subarnarekha port in Odisha that is quite near to Tajpur. Thus, it is a question of stake and not the red herring of viability that is the core issue. The Union government wants to control most of the revenue of this area, since it knows it is lucrative and does not want the West Bengal government to benefit financially from autonomous port development on West Bengal’s own soil. A financially secure West Bengal government flush with revenue is bad news for the Union government as it reduces avenues for blackmail. One of West Bengal’s leading media houses has been shamelessly pushing the Union government’s case in its pages. This is what happens when Delhi only grabs funds from West Bengal and even media houses dance to the tune of distant masters and their chosen corporate backers. The Bengal Chamber of Commerce and Industries, the industry body that has its roots in West Bengal and has stakes in the development of West Bengal, has supported Tajpur port. The only nay-sayers are Union government’s port officials and shipping ministry. The Union government is actually all set to take back the Rs. 515 crore grant released for Sagar port. People of West Bengal should be aware of this Delhi conspiracy against the development of the coastline of Bengal. In fact, in the crucial GST negotiations, the Union government has tried to snatch away from States their long established rights over tax on high sea sales.
The long term game plan of the Union government is clear. It wants to starve the States from all autonomous, lucrative, viable and elastic sources of revenue so that the States become completely dependent economically on Delhi. Delhi then can arm-twist States to fall in line with its policies as rich people treat beggars. States that have a solid financial independence are tougher to make slaves out of. The present government of West Bengal understands this nefarious game plan very well and thus has been one of the strongest votary for federalism. When a state or a region has greater control over its own affairs, it can work wonders. Its resources are used for its own development. Its economic plans are tied to its own reality. Thus, East Bengal, in its present form as the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, has charted an astonishing growth path. These are the same people as West Bengal, except that at Partition, West Bengal was miles ahead in alleconomic matters. Now it is almost the reverse and this reversal primarily boils down to one fact. East Bengal plans its own economic future while Delhi largely plans West Bengal’s economic future as an after-thought in its own centralized list of priorities. If the Union government at Delhi has the spine to be honest, every year at budget, it should also publish a white paper that would show state-wise break-up in revenue and resources earned in each revenue category and also the state-wise money given back in every form, including salaries and infrastructure investment. Then it will be clear who Delhi takes from and who Delhi gives. If there is a huge difference in giving and taking from a particular state, that is a situation that needs to be rectified. The Constitution of India actually has provisions for such rectification. This would entail a large scale transfer of subjects including revenue sources from the Union and Concurrent list to the State list. In fact, West Bengal premier Mamata Banerjee has already demanded so, saying that nothing beyond Defence, Foreign Affairs, Railways and Monetary policy should be in the Union government’s hands. It is thus not surprising that Delhi tries to use very trick in the book to destabilize her government and her party. For her success will threaten the uninterrupted era of loot of States by Delhi. In a diverse polity like the Indian Union, federalism means economic and political justice. The Tajpur impasse, in its microcosm, shows how ugly the centralizing animal can be.
North Korea: The Cyberwar of All against All They hack us. We hack them. It's a recipe for catastrophe John Feffer
T
Foreign Policy in Focus
he political theorist Thomas Hobbes warned in the 17th century that without the modern state and its sovereign control of territory, humanity would slip back into a state of nature in which violence was uncontrolled and everpresent. “A war of all against all” would break out, he wrote, in which neighbor would turn against neighbor. States would continue to fight one another, but a measure of stability would reign at the level of society. Today, without any international authority to regulate cyberspace, a war of all against all has indeed broken out. Each day there are new headlines about a hacking scandal, a cyberattack against a bank or government institution, or even more serious offensive actions. The United States pioneered this kind of warfare when, during the administration of George W. Bush, it inserted malware into the Iranian nuclear complex that destroyed centrifuges and set back the program. More recently, the United States was on the receiving end of cyberwarfare when hackers, probably at the behest of the Russian government,
stole material from the Democratic Party, arranged for its release prior to the 2016 presidential elections, and influenced the outcome in favor of Donald Trump. The latest revelations of cyberware, however, involve North Korea. The New York Times published an article on March 4 claiming that at least some of the many mishaps and failures associated with North Korea’s missile program were the result of a secret U.S. program to thwart launches through electronic means. This was not, in fact, the first admission that the United States had targeted North Korea through cyberspace. In late 2014, North Korea stood accused of hacking into Sony Pictures to discredit the film company around the time of its release of The Interview, which mocked Kim Jong Un. At the same time, however, came the revelation that the United States had been hacking into North Korea as early as 2010 and had installed malware that enabled tracking of some of North Korea’s activities. As I wrote at the time, “The Sony hack has been held up as an example of North Korea’s specialty: asymmetrical warfare. It usually relies on the weapons of the weak against strong adversaries like the United States. But there was a dangerous symmetry lurking in the cyberworld all along. Spyware, it seems, is everywhere.”
The latest information about U.S. attempts to disrupt North Korea’s nuclear program carries with it several very important implications. First, the Obama administration launched the initiative because it recognized that traditional missile defense was ineffectual. “Flight tests of interceptors based in Alaska and California had an overall failure rate of 56 percent, under near-perfect conditions,” The New York Times noted. “Privately, many experts warned the system would fare worse in real combat.” Second, the cyberwarfare against North Korea has also basically failed. Despite the numerous failed tests, Pyongyang managed to put together a series of successful launches over the last year, including three medium-range rockets. Third, cyberspace has become an increasingly dangerous place. Countries have developed the capacity not only to disrupt military operations but also to sabotage civilian infrastructure and paralyze an economy, as South Korea discovered in 2013 when an attack brought down several banks and broadcasters. This kind of warfare doesn’t have any international rules of engagement, like the Geneva Conventions or what the United Nations has developed over the years. Although Trump as candidate promised a new policy toward North Korea, his administration has so far
WRITE-WING
responded to North Korea’s nuclear program with more of the same. It has said that all options are on the table. It is moving forward with deployment of the THAAD missile defense system in South Korea. It has sent reassurances of support to Tokyo and Seoul. It is considering more sanctions and as well as placing North Korea back on the list of state sponsors of terrorism. It is waiting for China to do something. What Trump hasn’t done, however, is learn any lessons from the previous administration’s cyberwarfare experiment. Missile defense doesn’t work. The insertion of malware is only a temporary fix. The Obama administration at least showed that it could learn from its own failures by translating these lessons into a nuclear deal with Iran that has actually dealt with a potential proliferation threat through international cooperation. It’s time for the United States to apply the same lessons to North Korea. Negotiations and verifiable agreements are far more effective than threats and efforts at disruption. And before cyberattacks truly spill out of control and the international community descends into a war of all against all, Washington should sit down with other countries to hammer out some rules of conduct. Otherwise, North Korea’s nuclear program will be the least of our problems. John Feffer is the director of Foreign Policy In Focus and the author of the dystopian novel Splinterlands.
Letters to the Editor should be sent to: The Morung Express, House No. 4, Duncan Bosti, Dimapur - 797112, Or –email: morung@gmail.com All letters (including those via email) should have the full name and Postal address of the sender. Readers may please note that the contents of the articles, letters and opinions published do not reflect the outlook of this paper nor of the Editor in any form.
THURSDAY 23•03•2017
PERSPECTIVE
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
7
Egypt: the deep state’s war on journalism
The state is aware that free press means more accountability and their fear of being monitored, exposed, or held accountable indicates how fragile and insecure they are Aya Nader
“L
openDemocracy
isten only to me” - Even if he had tried, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi could not have described his authoritarian military reign better. Exactly one year since he demanded the people not believe the “enemies of the nation”, the margin for freedom of speech and expression has progressively shrunk to absurd levels. On 17 March 2017, government sponsored candidate Abdel-Mohsen Salama became the head of the journalists' syndicate. Salama is the managing editor of state owned Al-Ahram newspaper, and at the top of his list of supporters is former National Security officer Ahmed Mousa, a notorious mouthpiece for the regime who was supposedly intentionally planted in Al-Ahram. This recent development forecasts even darker times for an already gloomy era. The militarization of politics as well as authoritarianism are suffocating the people of Egypt. Public spaces are slowly but surely being securitized as the media is coopted. The economy is being divided like a pie to a select few, as a number of business tycoons and regime loyalists strategically buy out firms and distribute them among military men and their associates. Falling in line with this clampdown, assets of Mostafa Sakr, owner of Daily News Egypt, Egypt's only English independent daily print newspaper, and Arabic financial newspaper Al Borsa, were frozen. Sakr has been accused of belonging to the Muslim Brotherhood terrorist organization. Although handed out abundantly, the accusation was even more ridiculous this time, as the regime had previously used the newspaper to seek out investors for its mega projects. It seems hypocritical, to say the least, to then accuse the owner of the very same newspaper of being affiliated with the Muslim Brotherhood. “President Sisi to Daily News Egypt” read the front page of an August 2014 issue. The freeze order coincided with parliament passing a media "regulations" bill, which gives the government total control over both state and private owned media outlets. The new law stipulates the formation of three regulatory bodies to oversee all of Egypt’s media outlets, be it public or private. Heads of these bodies are appointed by none other than the president himself, according to Article 32. “The new law opens the door for the executive authority to dominate media,” Yehia El Qallash, ex-head of the Press Syndicate, told me. The state is refraining from building trust, he added, asserting that the current situation does not champion freedom of expression, and that of the press. However, Qallash has more to worry about than the new law. Qallash informed me that the syndicate had presented the Amnesties Council with a list of 29 imprisoned journalists, and 18 other
Why Some People Don’t Run for Office, but Others Do?
D
Protest in front of journalists' syndicate in Cairo on 2 January 2017.
journalists not imprisoned but under threat. Qallash is one of those 18 individuals under threat as well as the head of the syndicate’s Freedoms Committee, Khaled El Balshy. Never has the syndicate head been tried and handed an imprisonment sentence in its 75 year history. Never has the syndicate HQ been stormed before, but both catastrophes took place under the Sisi regime. Qallash and El Balshy are accused of “harboring fugitives”, namely journalists Amr Badr (also editor-in-chief of Bawabet Yanayer) and Mahmoud Al Sakka. Both journalists were arrested the night the syndicate headquarters were attacked in May 2016. They had been outspoken against the selling of the two Red Sea Islands to Saudi Arabia, and skeptical about official narratives of the murder of Giulio Regeni, pointing fingers at the state. “Authorities were also bothered by the website’s coverage,” Badr said, disclosing that during the investigation, the journalists were questioned about the stories they had published. They were put behind bars over stating their opinions, adding to their 63 jailed colleagues. “Freedom of expression in Egypt is a big zero,” Badr believes. Disbelief clouded those in the profession, as journalists were banned from attending the funeral held for the victims of a recent church explosion, considered one of the biggest terror attacks during Sisi’s reign of power. The journalists were kept in a separate room, and were handed official photographs on their way out. Openly expressing dissent with policies in Egypt, the contracts of correspondent AlBaraa Abdullah and TV anchor Lilian
Dawood with OnTV were both terminated after the channel was acquired by pro-state businessman Abu Hashima. Abu Hashima now also owns Al Youm Al Sabe’, Ain, and Sawt Al Omma newspapers, as well as the Dot Masr online website. One only has to take a look at these outlet’s amateur headlines to know what kind of messages they are conveying. Sisi’s loyal clan deny the obvious militarization of Egypt and it will be interesting to see their justification for the appointment of former military spokesman Mohammed Samir as head of Al-Asema TV Channel. The internet is no exception to the state’s control attempts. While the digital age provides massive room for freedom of expression, the Egyptian State is going out of its way to curb this space. Using its ‘digital armies’ and paid social media trolls, it floods the internet with messages that influence the less informed, threatening opposition, and constructing an illusion of a public opinion supportive of the state. As the state took away more human rights, it shunned its criticizers in the name of economic and security stability. But as the value of the Egyptian Pound sinks lower, it has become harder to mute critical voices. Prices have increased, while wages remain stagnant. The economic crisis has started biting the middle class as it depletes the poor. Although militant attacks in northern Sinai have not ceased, with an Egyptian general assassinated in October, the church explosion exposed the security apparatus. In the following months, the situation crumbled until hundreds of Copts fled Al-Arish City, fearing increased threats, killings, and attacks by militants. Security
is why Sisi came to power, and its laxity at a time of economic turmoil is threatening his supremacy day by day. With every decision the government makes, the volume of criticism gets louder, and the state grows more paranoid. The state is aware that free press means more accountability and their fear of being monitored, exposed, or held accountable indicates how fragile and insecure they are. “Dictatorships fear the truth,” El Balshy told me, narrating how the media had a big role in exposing toppled President Hosni Mubarak’s regime, and overturning Mohamed Morsi’s. Between killing and imprisoning journalists, a syndicate report stated that more than 782 violations were carried out in 2015 alone. The Committee to Protect Journalists named Egypt the third country in the world with the highest number of jailed journalists in 2016. The sad truth remains that if you are not a government mouthpiece, you are in danger. While the state punishes journalists for doing their job, many behind bars are being granted international awards, including Ismail Alexandrani and Mahmoud Shawkan. Until these shackles are broken, those holding dearly to the essence of their profession will have to continue shouting “journalism is not a crime”. Aya Nader is an independent journalist based in Egypt, writing for Daily News Egypt, Al-Ahram Weekly, and BECAUSE among others. She is an MA candidate in International Relations at the American University in Cairo.
UN Facing Famines, Conflicts and Now US Funding Cuts Lyndal Rowlands
I
Inter Press Service
n the midst of responding to the worst humanitarian crisis since records began, the UN is now faced with potential funding cuts from its biggest donor, the United States. On Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump released “America First: A Budget Blueprint to Make America Great Again,” the first such budget proposal of his presidency. The blueprint’s biggest proposed cuts target the Department of State, which would lose 29 percent of its budget, and the Environment Protection Agency, which would lose 31 percent. Although details of exactly how the proposed cuts – which still require approval of U.S. Congress – would be made, are yet to emerge, funding for the UN and the USAID which both fall under the State Department is at risk. “If approved – and that’s a big “if” – the Whitehouse’s plans could slash several billions in UN funding,” Natalie Samarasinghe Executive Director of the United Nations Association of the UK, told IPS. These billions of dollars of potential cuts come at a time when the United Nations is occupied responding to both acute and chronic crises around the world. “Some 20 million people are facing famine in Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan and Yemen,” said Samarasinghe. “The number of people forced to flee their homes is now the biggest since records began,” she said. “These are people for whom the UN is literally the difference between life and death,” she said. Michel Gabaudan, President of Refugees International, told IPS that it is important to keep the United States contribution in perspective when assessing the potential cuts. “The U.S. contribution is critical, it is generous, it is vital, but it is not unduly high compared to other countries of the western bloc – who are the main funders of humanitarian aid – and we must keep this contribution in perspective.” “The total foreign aid of the U.S. is about one percent of the budget – not 10 or 15
“The magnitude of the U.S. economy means that that one percent of money is critical to humanitarian relief and to development programs but if you compare this with what some European countries are doing, like Switzerland, like the Nordics, like the Dutch … they are certainly giving more in terms of dollar per capita of their citizens,” he said. Samarasinghe also noted that the proposed cuts are “still a relatively small amount compared to, say, fossil fuel subsidies.” She said that it would be “politically challenging for European countries to pick up the slack, especially with elections looming in a number of countries.” As an example, said Samarasinghe, a recent appeal from the Netherlands to fund reproductive health and safe abortions has not yet reached its $600 million target. That appeal was set up after Trump re-instated the Global Gag Rule, which removes U.S. funding from non-governmental organisations that carry out any activities related to safe abortion, regardless of the funding source. Meanwhile, Deborah Brautigam an expert on China in Africa told IPS that it is unlikely that China will increase its funding to the United Nations as the United States steps back, because China already feels
nent seat on the UN Security Council and UN development policies, which align with China’s priorities, such as industrialisation, said Brautigam who is Professor of International Political Economy and Director of the China Africa Research Initiative at Johns Hopkins University. Two UN agencies that receive the most funding from the United States are the World Food Program, which provides emergency food assistance, and the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). However Gabaudan said that both the more immediate humanitarian aid as well as long-term development assistance are needed to address the world’s crises: “The state department funds UNHCR and USAID funds development programs which tie the humanitarian aid with longer term issues,” said Gabaudan. “Most displacement crises are protracted, people don’t leave and get back home after a year or two,” he said, as is the case with the Syrian conflict, which just surpassed six year on March 15th. The budget proposal also reinforces other aspects of the emerging Trump Republican administration policies, including sweeping cuts to environment programs and cuts to programs, which assist the poor in the United States.
statement that the cuts reflected a desire to make the United Nations more effective and efficient. “I look forward to working with Members of Congress to craft a budget that advances U.S. interests at the UN, and I look forward to working with my UN colleagues to make the organisation more effective and efficient.” “In many areas, the UN spends more money than it should, and in many ways it places a much larger financial burden on the United States than on other countries.” However that financial relationship between the UN and the host of UN Headquarters is not unidirectional. According to the latest New York City UN Impact Report, the UN community contributed 3.69 billion dollars to the New York City economy in 2014. In response to the budget blueprint Stéphane Dujarric, Spokesman for UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said that “the Secretary-General is grateful for the support the United States has given to the United Nations over the years as the organisation’s largest financial contributor.” “The Secretary-General is totally committed to reforming the United Nations and ensuring that it is fit for purpose and delivers results in the most efficient and cost-effective manner.” “However, abrupt funding cuts can force the adoption of ad hoc measures that will undermine the impact of longer-term reform efforts,” said Dujarric. Dujarric’s statement also addressed aspects of the proposed budget, which claim to address terrorism. The proposal, which significantly increases spending on the U.S. military appears to favour a “hard power” militaristic approach over a “soft power” diplomatic and humanitarian approach. “The Secretary-General fully subscribes to the necessity to effectively combat terrorism but believes that it requires more than military spending,” said Dujarric. “There is also a need to address the underlying drivers of terrorism through continuing investments in conflict prevention, conflict resolution, countering violent extremism, peacekeeping, peacebuilding, sustainable and inclusive development, the enhance-
espite having all the necessary qualifications for leadership, certain people will never want to run for public office. Of course, not every good person is cut out for politics, nor is there room for everyone to serve at the highest level of decision-making bodies. But often their reluctance to run for public office has more to do with personal reasons. For example, the most commonly cited reasons, or sometimes excuses, are as follows: Loss of privacy, less time for family or favorite pastimes, less income than in many business or professional occupations, exposure to partisan and media criticism, fear of compromising one’s principles because of the complexity of our adversarial system, aversion to conflict and divisiveness, expense of campaigning, and involvement in many things most people would rather not do – such as attending all kinds of public meetings and always being expected to donate a certain amount. Also in the specific context of Nagaland, they may be afraid that some so-called national groups and our “do-as-you-like” Naga culture could make it nearly impossible for them to exercise any meaningful leadership to accomplish anything. Because good people shy away from politics, certain opportunistic individuals who shouldn’t represent the society try to take advantage of vulnerable situations for their selfish ambition, so they run for public office. Their only goal is to satisfy their ego needs by means of gaining power and position. For this sort of people, it’s all about more money and more power. And politics, they think, is the route to achieve it all. If they like travelling, for example, they would do so at the government’s expense and look to avail whatever privileges they can get for self-indulgence. But on the surface, they will always project themselves as real champions of the people and will make many promises to solve their problems. Then, there are those who do not even have the slightest concern about whoever their leaders may be. Worse still, they are willing to be followers of any leader, even if that leader has already proven himself to be a “rotten tomato” (useless) or a “bloodsucking leech” (corrupt). By their subservient following, they indirectly enable bad leaders to continue ruling. And, by their silence and indifference, they allow evil to destroy their society. Yet a society of subservient followers can never build a democratic nation. After all, a democratic nation requires educated, engaged, conscientious, caring, and even skeptical citizens. It also requires citizens who will recognize when changes are needed and have the courage to bring about necessary reforms and progress. Such citizens provide the leaders that enable constitutional democracy to survive and thrive. In other words, constitutional democracy requires citizens who are willing to run for office and serve with integrity. It is understandable that good people sometimes shy away from seeking office, with the ensuing loss of privacy and other burdens that come with public office. But no matter how brilliant our Constitution or how strong our religious beliefs, ultimately our system depends on individuals willing to compete for office. Perhaps you may not have the money power or the political connections to catapult you to an election victory the first time. But if you are a responsible citizen or a real patriot and have the thick-skin to take any heat and the heart to carry others’ burdens, you might be that “special someone” who should seriously consider seeking public office, or at least encourage those who possess those kind of qualities. You must, however, be certain that your candidates are known for their selfless service and the capability to lead according to people’s needs amidst changing times. So, then, why should good people run for public office? Here are some praise-worthy reasons: * To solve problems and promote the needs of the people and further their dreams. * To advance fresh ideas and approaches for development. * To “throw some rascals out” who are of no use to the public * To gain a voice in policy making and in directing the society towards the desired goal(s). * To serve as a spokesperson for worthy causes, or to represent the needs of the underprivileged in the community. * To acquire political influence and a platform from which to influence public opinion. * To be “where the action is” – involved in the thick of government and political life – campaigning, debating, drafting laws, reconciling diverse views, and making the system responsive. Today’s public leaders are being asked to function with fewer resources and continually find new ways to tackle challenges. So having the right leaders at the helm of affairs is an urgent public need. Indeed, leadership is critical to good public governance, including good planning, efficiency, transparency, and accountability. That’s why we should
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ThursDAY 23•03•2017
INDIA
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
ranks 131 on Human should India Development Index
'For talks, Pak commit to end terror'
New Delhi, March 22 (PTi): India on Wednesday clearly put the onus on Pakistan for resumption of dialogue, asserting that it should commit to end the statesponsored terrorism. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh also said in the Rajya Sabha that the government was ready to talk to all stakeholders in Jammu and Kashmir to normalise the situation there. “Pakistan should at least make a beginning and say it is willing to talk and end the terrorist activities and seek the support of any country in the world (in ending terrorism). Pakistan should take an initiative,” he said. Singh was responding to questions by members as to why talks are not being held with Pakistan. “The previous (United Progressive Alliance) government had also placed a condition for Pakistan to give a commitment to end state-sponsored terrorism,” he added. To questions over the situation in Kashmir, the home minister said, “We are ready to talk to everyone... The entire nation wants the situation to normalise in Kashmir. We are ready to cooperate with everyone and have taken all initiatives in this regard.” He noted that he had visited the Kashmir valley thrice during the unrest last year. “When there was unrest, I went to the Kashmir valley thrice. I have spoken each time. The government wants the Kashmir situation to improve. We have taken every initiative,” he said. “I also want to inform the House that there has been no dearth of official communication,” he said. While talking about steps and schemes initiated to normalise the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, the home minister said he does not, at the same time, dis-
Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh
miss the work done by the previous governments. “We never want to take credit of anyone. We don’t claim that we alone can improve the situation and solve the Kashmir problem. The support of every political party and every citizen is required to solve the Kashmir problem,” he said. He said the Modi government was trying to take forward the initiatives taken by previous governments. Listing some of the initiatives taken, he said the selection process for the armed police forces is over and job opportunities for Kashmiri youth have increased. He added that never before have there been recruitment of as many as 10,000 SPOs in Kashmir valley and five new India Reserve Battalions have been raised there with as many as 4,500 personnel. Besides, he said, central armed police battalions have been raised in J&K with 1200 personnel. Referring to the visit of an all-party delegation to Kashmir during the unrest last year, Singh said Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti had even written a letter, ‘inviting all such (separatist) forces to talk to the visiting delegation. However they still did not turn up’. Mentioning about the
snub given by separatist Hurriyat leaders to some members of the delegation when they tried to meet them, he said, “These people (the delegation comprising Yechury and others) were forced to beat a hasty retreat. What do they expect from us?” The home minister said there were 322 incidents of terrorist violence in 2016 and 150 terrorists were killed, but in 2017, as many as 32 terrorists were killed. The home minister, while talking about the benefits given to the soldiers, mentioned out-ofturn promotions and honour to soldiers involved in surgical strike. “We have decided that under any circumstances the family of a jawan martyred will get overall financial support of more than Rs 1 crore,” he said. He said although sacrifices of the jawans cannot be measured in monetary terms, ‘they got less money earlier’. He added, “Whenever our soldiers are martyred, we take full precautions to send his body to his village and the district authorities as well as the MLAs and MPs concerned are informed to be present in the funeral ceremony.” Earlier, Leader of Opposition Ghulam Nabi Azad asked what the government has done in the Kash-
mir valley to normalise the situation. Sharad Yadav (Janata Dal-United) asked why the government is not engaging in a dialogue with Pakistan to normalise the situation in Kashmir. “Why have you closed the road? Why don’t you talk? Why do you want to suppress everything with the force of gun? Why has the agenda of governance not been implemented, as the demand has been made by the state chief minister also? The process of dialogue is shut and there are no talks (with Pakistan),” he asked. Sitaram Yechury (Communist Party of IndiaMarxist) said Jammu and Kashmir situation is not just a law and order problem. He said the trust deficit is growing by the day in the Kashmir Valley. “Why not the commitment of starting a dialogue with all stakeholders? Merely tackling terrorism is not going to solve the problem,” he said, adding that talking to Pakistan was also raised by the chief minister. India for ties with Pak sans shadow of terror: President India is committed to building ties with Pakistan in an environment free from terror and violence, President Pranab Mukherjee said in New Delhi on Wednesday. Mukherjee said this in his message to his Pakistani counterpart Mamnoon Hussain on the eve of their national day on Thursday. “On behalf of the government, the people of India and on my own behalf, I extend greetings to you and to the friendly people of Pakistan on the occasion of your National Day,” he said. “India is committed to building ties with Pakistan in an environment free from terror and violence,” he said.
New York, March 22 (iaNS): India came down by one slot and was ranked 131st among 188 countries on Human Development Index (HDI) 2016 released by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). India fell under the "medium human development category" and its HDI, at 0.624, was behind Sri Lanka and the Maldives in South Asia. Sri Lanka and the Maldives were ranked 73 and 105 respectively and figure in the "high human development" section. India was placed behind countries like Gabon (109), Egypt (111), Indonesia (113), South Africa (119) and Iraq (121) among others. The report lists a total of 188 countries. China occupies the 90th spot. Bhutan is at 132, Bangladesh 139, Nepal 144 and Pakistan is at 147. Devised and launched in 1990, HDI is a statistic which ranks countries into four tiers of human development on the basis of indicators like life expectancy, education and per capita income. A higher lifespan, higher level of education and higher GDP per capita results in a country scoring higher HDI. The top three countries in HDI
were Norway (0.949), Australia (0.939) and Switzerland (0.939). "Identifying those who have been left out of the progress in human development and mapping their locations are essential for useful advocacy and effective policymaking," according to the report. "Such mapping can help development activists demand action and guide policymakers in formulating and implementing policies to improve the wellbeing of marginalised and vulnerable people," it added. The report said gender equality and women's empowerment were fundamental dimensions of human development. However, globally, women have a lower HDI than men, despite having higher life expectancy at birth, said the report. South Asia's Gender Development Index (GDI) is the lowest. The GDI takes into account the disparity between the HDI of men and women -- the higher the disparity, the lower the GDI. India's GDI is 0.819, compared to the developing country average of 0.913. The UNDP report said the sustainable development goals, critical in their own right, were also crucial for human development and helped them realise their full potential in life.
Govt to soon introduce 5 bills for implementation of GST New Delhi, March 22 (PTi): Five legislations will soon be introduced in Parliament with the objective of rolling out the comprehensive indirect tax reform GST from July 1, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley told the Lok Sabha today. "The Government will bring before Parliament four GST legislations and there will be a fifth legislation as Excise and Customs Acts will have to be amended. We will bring these legislations together to Parliament in the next few days," he said replying to a debate on the Finance Bill. The Union Cabinet this week cleared four supplementary Goods and Services Tax (GST) legislations which will be introduced in Parliament in the ongoing budget session. Appreciating the fact that all decisions relating to the model GST laws were taken by consensus at the GST Council, Jaitley said not a single decision has been taken by voting. GST Council, the apex decision making body for GST, have representation from the central government as well as all the state governments. So far 12 meetings of GST Council has taken place and many contentious issues were cleared by consensus, he said. "First time a council was formed and it was the first time in federal politics and this is India's first federal institution where collective decision making takes place. Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi's guidance was that effort should be made that we should not decide on issues based on voting," he said. He said decisions at the Council were taken democratically and "it was a deliberative democracy and federalism in action that all decisions have been taken with consensus." Citing example of "participative democracy", he said, Tamil Nadu was the only state which had reservations but it played very active role in framing of model GST laws. "(Mallikarjun) Kharge ji your state Karnataka also played a very active role," Jaitley added.
Separation of powers binding on judiciary too: Govt
New Delhi, March 22 (iaNS): The central government said on Wednesday that separation of powers is as binding on the judiciary as it is on the other pillars of the State. "Separation of power is binding. If it is binding on all, it is equally binding on the judiciary," Union Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad told the Lok Sabha while responding to supplementaries during the Question Hour. The minister`s remarks came after some of the members raised concerns over the Supreme Court`s recent verdicts on medical entrance and cricket administration and also claimed that the apex court was getting into the domain of law-making, which is the right of Parliament. The government also said if the country can trust the Prime Minister with the nuclear button, why cannot he be trusted for appointing excellent people as judges through his Law Minister. Bharatiya Janata Party member
Sanjay Jaiswal sought to know from the government under such circumstances, how would the supremacy of Parliament be maintained. Prasad refused to comment on the court verdicts but said that in the Kesavananda Bharati vs State of Kerala judgment, the apex court had clearly laid out separation of powers between the three pillars of the State. "Legislature will formulate law, the executive will execute it and the judiciary will interpret the law," Prasad said. The minister expressed concern over the pending cases in lower courts, but also claimed that pending cases in High Courts and the Supreme Court has reduced since the new government took office. CPI-M member Mohammad Saleem sought to know from the minister whether the government has any plan to live telecast the court proceedings.
Responding to him, Prasad said the idea is considerable and can be discussed. "Definitely it will create a psychological pressure but there were also logistical problems involved," he said. Prasad said that the live telecast of Parliament proceedings was easy as there were only two houses, but it was difficult to do so in several thousand courtrooms. To a question by Congress member K.H. Muniappa about appointment of judges, Prasad said the house needs to debate on why the law minister of the country cannot be part of the appointments of judges. Prasad said, "If the country can trust the Prime Minister with the nuclear button, if he can be trusted over appointment of Chief Vigilance Commissioner, the three chiefs of armed forces, why can`t he be trusted for appointing people as judges through his law minister?"
CBSE moots common exam Why India needs more male health format from Class 6 to 9 workers to tackle maternal-health crisis By Devanik Saha IndiaSpend/IANS
(New CBSE Uniform System of Asessment Source: CBSE Circular)
‘Uniform system of assessment’ replaces Continuous and Comprehensive Evaluation (CCE) Morung Express News Dimapur | March 22
The Central Board of School Education (CBSE) has formally discarded the Continuous and Comprehensive Evaluation (CCE) scheme and introduced a new system to be followed by its affiliated schools from 2017-18 academic sessions. The revised assessment format was announced in a CBSE's circular titled, “Uniform System of Assessment, Examination Pattern and Issue of Report Card for Classes VI - IX from next Academic Year 2017-18 onwards” to its 18,688 affiliated schools on March 21. This new scheme will bring the uniformity in the system of assessment and examination for classes 9 and 10 in all the CBSE affiliated schools," CBSE informed in the circular issued by its Chairman RK Chaturvedi. Following the decision to restore board examinations for class 10 from next academic session, the Board said it is “imperative to have a new scheme of evaluation for classes 6 to 9 because disparities in the system were creating problems for students whenever they migrated to another school." "To increase the confidence in the stu-
dents to start preparing for Class 10 Board examination when they join the upper primary stage in Class 6, the CBSE has decided to implement the uniform system of assessment, examination pattern and issue of report cards for Classes 6 to 7 also on the similar pattern," it added. CBSE said that under the previous scheme of CCE in force since 2009, its affiliated schools uses various system of assessment and examination for classes VI to IX and issues different report cards to the students. Due to this, students in those classes face several problems whenever they migrate to another school, it said. The current move is to follow a standardized teaching and evaluation across schools to avoid such disparities. The Board has also issued common templates for Report cards for to be issued by all CBSE schools under the new system. The new guidelines also stipulated a two-semester system which will include half yearly and annual examinations. In both terms, there will be 20 marks for periodic assessment which includes 10 marks test and 10 marks for others. In other words, 90 per cent of the marks will be based written test including 80 marks for half yearly or yearly exam. The CBSE also informed that all the schools under the board needs to follow NCERT syllabus in the upper primary classes.
Female health workers are the primary drivers of maternal health initiatives, but male health workers (MHWs) could complement their services significantly, according to a 2015 research study conducted in rural Odisha. What can MHWs do in rural areas? Gender inequities in developing societies mean that men play a dominant, decision-making role in reproductive health. MHWs can make a difference by educating men about maternal health issues and guiding their decisions, said the study. They can also complement the efforts of female health workers in delivering health services in remote areas and at late hours. However, this may prove to be difficult in India. There are no MHWs in 48 per cent of health sub-centres in Indian villages; and overall, there is a 65 per cent shortage of MHWs in public health centres, according to the Rural Health Statistics 2016. It is clear India has to improve its maternal-health services. The government scheme to reduce maternal mortality rate, Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY), has helped push up institutional deliveries by 15 per cent over the decade ending 2014, according to a 2016 report by think tank Brookings India. But as IndiaSpend reported in February 2017, JSY is often not delivering quality care to the country's poorest women. This lack of access could explain why India accounted for close to a fifth of 303,000 maternal deaths and 26 per cent of the neonatal deaths globally, as IndiaSpend reported in September 2016. MHWs can help improve the coverage of maternal and newborn child health services delivered by the formal health care system, and improve home-based management of these services. To research the role MHWs could play, the study recruited and trained men to complement the work of female health workers. An IndiaSpend analysis of the findings of the study and other data reveals three reasons why MHWs were effective in improving the qual-
ity of maternal and newborn child vey, IndiaSpend reported in Febhealth services: ruary 2017. However, regional variations 1. Female health workers strug- exist. As many as 94 per cent of gle with mobility, security issues women reported needing per* Night deliveries: Female mission to visit a health centre in health workers (FHWs) are often Jharkhand, the highest in any state, unable to help pregnant women while only 4.76 per cent of women reach a hospital in case of night de- in Mizoram said they needed to liveries. MHWs, on the other hand, ask family members, the lowest. can facilitate pregnant women's Given this social structure, access to health services, especial- MHWs can convince husbands -ly during night, as observed during who have poor knowledge on the the study. do's and don'ts during pregnancy, * Communication gap with childbirth and the postpartum pehusbands: The reach of FHWs to riod-about the importance of promen in local communities is lim- viding antenatal care and health ited due to gendered norms and services during pregnancies. other factors, according to the India's RMNCH+A (Reproducstudy. MHWs can bridge the com- tive, Maternal, Newborn, Child and munication gap with husbands Adolescent) health strategy -- formuand educate them about various lated in 2013 -- recognised the central aspects of reproductive health. role of men in women's reproductive health and includes guidelines for 2. MHWs can convince men about training of health workers to provide the need for better maternal care husbands of pregnant women with The subordinate position of the relevant information. women in Indian society has been Interventions to promote the inacknowledged as a fundamen- volvement of men during pregnantal constraint to women's access cy, childbirth and after birth have to reproductive health services. been strongly recommended by Women tend to have less access to the World Health Organisation in its household resources. 2015 report on recommendations Nearly 80 per cent of women on health promotion interventions in India said they had to seek per- for maternal and newborn health. mission from a family member to visit a health centre. Of these, 80 3. Complementing the work of per cent said they needed permis- female health workers sion from their husbands, 79.89 Coverage of maternal health serper cent from a senior male family vices in west Odisha's Keonjhar dismember, and 79.94 per cent from a trict, where the study was focussed, senior female family member, ac- improved due to increased MHW cording to the 2012 Indian Human engagement. The male health workDevelopment Survey (IHDS) sur- ers arranged transport and accom-
panied pregnant women to distant health facilities in emergencies and also sometimes climbed hills to reach distressed households in different settlements. At the time of deliveries, the gendered division of labour was apparent, researchers found. MHWs handled tasks outside of the delivery room-keeping track of the family's personal items, obtaining medicines, and in cases where a blood transfusion was necessary, obtaining donated blood. Male health workers have made a difference in other developing nations Health initiatives that are shouldered by both male and female health workers have worked well in other countries. There is a significant need to scale up men's participation in maternal health and provide them with the sufficient information to help them make decisions and support their partner's decisions concerning family health, wrote Olena Ivanova, a maternal health expert at the International Centre for Reproductive Health, Belgium, in a blogpost in February 2015. "More rigorous evaluations of male involvement initiatives, attention to vulnerable and disadvantaged families, acknowledgement of heterogeneity of fathers' groups, revision of policies and laws and closer collaboration between different sectors are needed in order to strive for better maternal and newborn health outcomes and well-being," she added. Evidence from Rwanda, among the few countries to pair male and female health workers, indicates that the approach could work in settings where it is not safe or socially acceptable for women to travel alone. And, educating pregnant women and their male partners leads to better maternal health behaviour than educating women alone, according to a 2006 study in urban Nepal. However, it is important to tread cautiously, said the study. To reinforce these successes, as the study showed, MHWs should operate in ways that do not contribute to widening gender inequalities in favour of men.
thursdAY 23•03•2017
WORLD
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
9
NKorean missile test fails as tensions simmer
SEOUL, March 22 (rEUtErS): A North Korean missile appeared to have exploded on Wednesday just after it was launched, the U.S. and South Korean militaries said after detecting the latest in a series of weapons tests by the nuclear-armed state that have alarmed the region. The launch attempt was made from near the city of Wonsan, on North Korea’s east coast, the same place from where it launched several intermediate-range missiles last year, all but one of which failed. “U.S. Pacific Command detected what we assess was a failed North Korean missile launch attempt ... in the vicinity of Kalma,” Commander Dave Benham, a spokesman for U.S. Pacific Command, said in a statement, referring to an air field in Wonsan. “A missile appears to have exploded within seconds of launch,” Benham said, adding that work was being carried out on a more detailed assessment. A South Korean military official told Reuters the missile appeared to have exploded just after it was launched. “It may have exploded right after it took off from a launch pad,” said military official, who declined to be identified. It was not clear what type of missile it was. The South Korean defence ministry said it was conducting analysis to determine further details. The increasing frequency of the missile tests has fuelled a growing sense of urgency over how to respond to the isolated, unpredictable state.
North Korea has no fear of US sanctions move: Envoy
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised a ballistic rocket launching drill of Hwasong artillery units of the Strategic Force of the KPA on the spot in this undated photo released by North Korea’s Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) in Pyongyang March 7. (REUTERS File Photo)
North Korea launched four ballistic missiles from near its west coast on March 6 and this week conducted a rocket engine test that its leader, Kim Jong Un, said opened “a new birth” of its rocket industry. The latest launch came as the U.S. envoy for North Korea policy, Joseph Yun, met his South Korean counterpart in Seoul to discuss a response to the North’s weapons programmes. Just last week U.S. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson visited Japan, South Korea and China and how to handle North Korea was a major issue in his talks. Speaking in Seoul on
Friday, Tillerson said a policy of strategic patience with North Korea had ended and all options, including a military one, were on the table if North Korea threatened South Korean or U.S. forces. North Korea has conducted two nuclear tests and a series of missile launches since the beginning of last year in defiance of U.N. resolutions. It is believed to be working to develop nuclear-tipped missiles that can reach the United States.
Korean leader was “acting very, very badly”. A senior U.S. official in Washington told Reuters on Monday that the Trump administration was considering sweeping sanctions as part of a broad review of measures to counter North Korea’s nuclear and missile threat. The United States is also deploying an advanced missile- defence system in South Korea. But China objects to the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system, saying its powerful radar can penetrate deep into BROAD REVIEW its territory, undermining U.S. President Donald its security. Trump rebuked Kim on Undaunted by the posSunday, saying the North sibility of even tougher
sanctions aimed at cutting North Korea off from the global financial system, a North Korean diplomat said his government would pursue an “acceleration” of its nuclear and missile programmes. This includes developing a “pre-emptive first strike capability” and an inter-continental ballistic missile, said Choe Myong Nam, deputy ambassador at the DPRK (North Korean) mission to the United Nations in Geneva. Japan’s Nikkei index and South Korean stocks extended losses slightly after news of a North Korean launch broke but trade was steady overall.
GENEVa, March 22 (rEUtErS): North Korea has nothing to fear from any U.S. move to broaden sanctions aimed at cutting it off from the global financial system and will pursue “acceleration” of its nuclear and missile programmes, a North Korean envoy told Reuters on Tuesday. This includes developing a “pre-emptive first strike capability” and an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), said Choe Myong Nam, deputy ambassador at the North Korean mission to the United Nations in Geneva. Reuters, quoting a senior U.S. official in Washington, reported on Monday that the Trump administration is considering sweeping sanctions as part of a broad review of measures to counter North Korea’s nuclear and missile threat. “I think this is stemming from the visit by the Secretary of State (Rex Tillerson) to Japan, South Korea and China...We of course are not afraid of any act like that,” Choe told Reuters. “Even prohibition of the international transactions system, the global financial system, this kind of thing is part of their system that will not frighten us or make any difference.” He called existing sanctions “heinous and inhumane”. North Korea has been under sanctions for “half a century” but the communist state survives by placing an emphasis on juche or “self-sufficiency”, he said. His country wants a forum set up to examine the “legality and legitimacy of the sanctions regime”. He denounced joint annual military exercises currently being carried out by the United States and South Korea on the divided peninsula and criticised remarks by Tillerson during his talks with regional allies last week. “All he was talking about is for the United States to take military actions on DPRK,” Choe said, using the acronym for the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. North Korea rejects claims by Washington and Seoul that the military drills are defensive. They involve strategic nuclear
bombers and a nuclear submarine, Columbus, that recently entered South Korean ports, he said. “In the light of such huge military forces involved in the joint military exercises, we have no other choice but to continue with our full acceleration of the nuclear programmes and missile programmes. It is because of these hostile activities on the part of the United States and South Korea.” PRE-EMPTIVE STRIKE CAPABILITY “We strengthen our national defence capability as well as pre-emptive strike capabilities with nuclear forces as a centrepiece,” Choe said. Asked to comment on Choe’s remarks, a U.S. State Department spokeswoman, Anna Richey-Allen, called on North Korea “to refrain from provocative actions and inflammatory rhetoric...and to make the strategic choice to fulfil its international obligations and commitments and return to serious talks.” Choe declined to give technical details of North Korea’s latest rocket engine test on Sunday - seen as a possible prelude to a partial ICBM flight - calling it a great historical event that would lead to “fruitful outcomes”. “I can tell you for sure that the intercontinental ballistic rockets of the DPRK will be launched at any time and at any place as decided by our Supreme Leadership,” Choe said, recalling leader Kim Jong Un’s pledge in a New Year’s address. Analysts say North Korea has likely mastered the technology to power the different stages of an ICBM and may show it off soon, but is likely still a long way from being able to hit the mainland United States. “The United States has been talking about launching pre-emptive strikes at North Korea,” Choe said. “And we have been prepared to deter, to counter-attack such attacks on the part of the United States. “We would utilise every possible means in our hands and the inter-continental ballistic rocket is one of them.”
The MNDAA in Myanmar: 600 million children will face Australia again denounced for treatment crowdfunding armed group extreme water shortage by 2040 of Aborigines
A rebel soldier of the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) holds his rifle as he guards near a military base in Kokang region. (REUTERS File Photo)
YaNGON, March 22 (rEUtErS): The Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA) is among the myriad armed groups that have kept Myanmar in a state of near-perpetual civil war for decades. The group, which says it is fighting an “anti-oppression and anti-dictatorship” war against the Myanmar military on behalf of the Kokang people in the country’s northeast, has refused to disarm or actively participate in the peace process launched by the country’s leader, Aung San Suu Kyi. Reuters reported this week that the MNDAA had raised more than $500,000 over the past two years in donations funnelled through some of China’s biggest state and private financial firms after making a “crowdfunding” appeal on its website. While the predominantly ethnic Chinese group said it underwent a successful opium eradication campaign in 2002, the MNDAA is actively involved in the production and trade of methamphetamine, according to a United Nations anti-narcotics official. Its founder, Peng Jiasheng, has been identified by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) as a major trafficker since 1975, according to U.S. diplomatic cables released by Wikileaks. The MNDAA is not sanctioned or designated as a terrorist organisation by Washington. “Once a source of opium, the Kokang’s Special Region Number One more recently has been documented as a source of high-quality methamphetamine, to include methamphetamine ICE,” wrote U.S. diplomats in the cables in 2009, referring to the MNDAA’s territory. “Peng Jiasheng has also been suspected of trading arms with Indian insurgents along the India-Myanmar border in exchange for precursor chemicals used in the production of both methamphetamine and heroin,” say the cables. During a series of clashes earlier this month, the Myanmar military said 270 people in the capital of Kokang were “abducted” by the MNDAA for forced military training, an allegation the armed group denied. The MNDAA was formerly part of the Communist Party of Burma, a powerful China-backed guerrilla force that battled the Myanmar government until splintering in 1989. The group is now part of the Northern Alliance coalition of rebels comprising one of Myanmar’s most powerful militias, the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), and two smaller groups caught in a stand-off with the military since 2015 clashes in the region. A regional parliament in Myanmar last year approved a proposal to define the coalition as terrorists, but it was later voted down by Suu Kyi’s ruling party at the national level. Fighting between the rebels and the army in 2009 pushed tens of thousands of refugees into China, angering Beijing.
UNitED NatiONS, March 22 (iaNS): Nearly 600 million children, one in four worldwide, will live in areas with extremely limited water resources by 2040, according to a UN report. The report was released late Tuesday by the UN International Children’s Emergency Fund (Unicef), Efe news reported on Wednesday. Unicef warned of the threat to children’s lives due to the lack of safe water and of how climate change is exacerbating the problem. “Water is elemental; without it, nothing can grow. But around the world, millions of children lack access to safe water -- endangering their lives, undermining their health, and jeopardising their future,” Unicef Executive Director Anthony Lake said. “This crisis will only grow unless we take collective action now,” he insisted. The report warns that population growth as well as increased consumption and demand are putting more and more stress on water availability, while right now such stress is already “extremely high” in
36 countries. The situation occurs when demand for water far exceeds the renewable supply available, the report said. It also highlighted various factors affecting the quality and availability of water such as warmer temperatures, rising sea levels, melting ice and increasing droughts. To date, 663 million people are lacking adequate access to water sources and more than 800 children under the age of five die every day from diarrhoea linked to contaminated water and inadequate sanitation and hygiene. According to Unicef, the lack of an adequate supply exposes children to deadly diseases forcing children in many places to spend hours every day to collect water, preventing them from going to school. The report furthermore includes recommendations for different sectors and urges governments to plan for possible changes in water availability and demand over the coming years. According to Unicef, the priority must be to safeguard access to water for the most vulnerable children.
SYDNEY, March 22 (rEUtErS): Australia came under fresh criticism over its treatment of its indigenous population on Tuesday as a UN investigator examined the impact of a government takeover of remote communities and as Canberra pushes its bid to join the UN Human Rights Council. Aborigines and Torres Strait Islanders make up just three percent of Australia’s population of 23 million people but have disproportionately high rates of suicide, alcohol abuse, domestic abuse and imprisonment, tracking near the bottom in almost every economic and social indicator. U.N. special rapporteur Victoria Tauli-Corpuz this week started a 15-day tour to review the impact of laws surrounding the government’s 2007 intervention, which was aimed at curbing alcohol abuse, domestic violence and improving health. “The special rapporteur’s visit comes at a time we’re hearing harrowing allegations from young people brutalised by the youth justice systems,” Tammy Solonec, Indigenous Rights
Members of the Australian Aboriginal community of Ramingining stand next to a machine used to pay for fuel. (REUTERS File Photo)
Manager of Amnesty International Australia, said in a statement on Tuesday. “Prime Minister (Malcolm) Turnbull must show federal leadership in setting a national plan to address it.” Australia’s human rights record on indigenous issues has come under scrutiny with a royal commission in the Northern Territory and a parliamentary inquiry in Victoria hearing allegations of abuses against juvenile prison inmates. Australia is seeking a seat on the 47-member UN Human Rights Council, potentially putting it at odds with the
global body which has repeatedly criticised Australia’s treatment of its indigenous population. Tauli-Corpuz will investigate issues surrounding indigenous detention conditions, land rights, violence against women and the rate of children removed from their homes, a U.N. statement said. TauliCorpuz will report her findings in September. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, in 2016 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander prisoners accounted for over a quarter of the total prison population.
Park goes home after 14-hour interrogation in graft probe
South Korea’s ousted leader Park Geun-hye leaves a prosecutor’s office in Seoul, South Korea on March 22. (REUTERS Photo)
SEOUL, March 22 (rEUtErS): Former South Korean President Park Geun-hye left prosecutors’ offices early on Wednesday after being questioned in an investigation into a
corruption scandal that brought an early end to her political career. Park did not respond to reporters’ questions as she emerged from the building af-
ter nearly 22 hours and got into a waiting car to be driven to her private home in the capital, Seoul. Prosecutors questioned Park as a criminal suspect for the first time since the Constitutional Court on March 10 upheld her December impeachment by parliament. Park is accused of colluding with a friend, Choi Soon-sil, to pressure big businesses to donate to two foundations set up to back the former president’s policy initiatives. She and Choi have denied wrongdoing. Prosecutors have declined to comment on whether Park will be called back for more questioning or whether they would seek an arrest warrant from a court to detain her. They did not discuss the details of the questions but said Park was responding well to the investigation. Park, 65, who became South Korea’s first democratically elected president to be removed from office, issued a brief statement on arrival at the prosecutors’ of-
fices on Tuesday, her first public remarks since her downfall. “I am sorry to the people. I will faithfully cooperate with questioning,” Park said in front of media. FINDING THE TRUTH The questioning lasted 14 hours until just before midnight, one of her lawyers, Sohn Bumgyu, told reporters. She and her lawyers reviewed her statements made to the investigators, before leaving at 6:55 a.m. (2155 GMT on Tuesday). Park has not been charged but could face more than 10 years in jail if convicted of receiving bribes from bosses of big conglomerates, including Samsung Group chief Jay Y. Lee, in return for favours. Sohn later told Reuters Park wanted to express her gratitude to the prosecutors. “We appreciate the prosecutors and the people there who have tried to find the truth,” Sohn said. “We’ve seen truth starting to appear.” Park waved to supporters as she was driven back home and
smiled and spoke briefly to some outside her home as she got out of the car. Park’s fate and the widening corruption investigation have gripped the country at a time of rising tension with North Korea and China. The scandal has undermined support for Park’s conservative ruling party. A liberal opposition politician, Moon Jae-in, is leading in opinion polls and is expected to win a snap presidential election on May 9. Park’s supporters and opponents have held protests in Seoul for months but police have managed to keep them apart and no serious violence has broken out between them. Park’s arrival home came as salvage experts began trying to raise a ferry, the Sewol, that sank nearly three years ago, killing more than 300 people, most of them children on a school trip. The disaster was an early blot on Park’s record in office that she was never able to clear. Park was accused of failing to take decisive action after news broke that the ferry was in trouble.
10
THURSDAY 23•03•2017
PUBLIC DISCOURSE
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
THE LINE OF NATIONAL SOCIALIST COUNCIL OF NAGALIM
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norganized people are just a crowd of individuals living together without any definite political concept for a common goal. However big the land and population they may be, such people are always vulnerable to the dangers of aggressions by invaders. The Nagas become a strong people only after they got organized under the banner of NNC. Indeed, the Naga people have made many achievements in the history of their national movement for independence under the leadership of the NNC. But, after the signing of the Shillong Accord betraying the trust of the people, legitimacy of NNC was widely debated among the people particularly, in the national workers’ conference. The Nagas were left like orphan in the middle of the road of struggle without organization and leadership. The Accord was condemned in the name of NNC by the national Hoho. But the pro-accord staged a military coup d’état where all the top national leaders were arrested to be executed, which was followed by fierce confrontation among the workers. NNC was murdered by the pro Shillong Accord people. In addition to that NNC was derecognized by sympathizer countries on account of capitulation to the enemies. The revolutionary patriots felt that the future of the Nagas could not be buried with the accord of treason. As compelled by such situation, NSCN was formed in the national workers’ conference and it was approved by the National Hoho in 1980. NSCN was built on the foundation of Naga national principle. As mandated, it has brought the
issue thus far in the face of enemies from both within and without. NSCN is the sword of the Nagas. It has neither failed in the fighting front nor at the negotiating table. It fought the enemies of all hues- in the east, in the west, in the south and in the north when situation demanded. NSCN stayed the course when others big and small ran away from the battlefields betraying the cause. It is now fully engaged in political talks with the Government of India for working out an honorable political solution. Both the parties are determined to conclude it soon. NSCN is the compass of the Nagas that guides to the path of their future. People without orientation to the future are like a ship without radar. The Lord says, “NSCN is the eyes of the Nagas.” It has inspired and guided the Nagas in their struggle through thick and thin and brought them this far. It will continue to be the guiding star of the Nagas. Everything comes from principle. Nation-states are principle-based. NSCN is also principle-based. ‘Sovereign Independent Christian Socialist Democratic Republic of Nagalim’ is the principle of the Nagas. A sovereign independent people meanspeople who determine their future by themselves. Sovereignty is the ultimate power of a people to make and unmake things. Nagas are sovereign by right. In keeping with the universal principle, GoI has recognized the sovereignty of the Nagas stating that ‘Sovereignty lies with the people and that sovereignty of the Nagas lies with Naga people. ’We cannot part with our principle because our future lies
in there. The truth is that a man is as big as and as tall as his freedom. And it is so with a people. ‘Nagalim for Christ’ means- the Nagas trust in the God-ship of Jesus Christ, the Creator of the heavens and the earth and therefore, they have chosen him to be their God. It is the covenant of God with the Nagas, which was declared in the national Hoho by our pioneers with one voice. We believe in the principle of interrelationship of man, land and God. We know nothing exists by itself. Creations and Creator are inseparably interrelated. Socialist economy means- Nagas are a community-oriented people by culture since time immemorial. Their land holding system speaks of socialistic economic pattern. There are individuals’ land, clans’ land and community’s land. By socialistic economy, it means - mineral resources, rivers, lakes, forest and some major means of production are to be nationalized for common economic pool. Nevertheless, individuals are at liberty to own other means of production entitled by law. However, NSCN is not for communism. Democratic Republic means- a government through elected representatives. By democratic Republic we mean - equal representation in the government, equal opportunity, equal rights, equal share and equal contribution to the common cause in terms of service and taxes. Democracy speaks of individual rights and freedoms within bounds. It is the rule of law. Democracy does not mean freedom without restrain. Freedom without restrain is negation of freedom, which is but anarchy.
The political concept of NSCN is rooted in sovereign state and government. It is so because sovereign government can make people grow and develop their land into their fullest size. Sovereign people can fly in the air, reach the bottom of the sea and land on other planets. Sovereign government/state is the home of revolutionary people and kings; it is the custodian of history, land, culture, identity, politics and religion of a people. The ‘Framework Agreement’ will give the Nagas maximum sovereign power to grow into a developed political people and it will also strengthen the security of India. But NSCN is strongly opposed to domination of one people by the other or imposition of one’s will upon the other, which has been the roadblock to peace and progress on earth. Every member of NSCN should be a revolutionary, in other word, a Nazirite of the Nagas by commitment. Nazirites are the kind of people who are set aside for the Lord and his people. NSCN as Nazirite puts God first, country second and individual last by conviction. They are scapegoat of the people. As Nazirites, NSCN should walk with conviction, fight with conviction, speak with conviction, live with conviction and die with conviction. As competitors discipline their bodies and minds for winning the race so also does an organization. An army general can control a host of army through discipline. Alexander the great conquered the world through bravery and discipline. NSCN disciplines its members through the law of do’s and don’ts. To become an NSCN one has to keep political, economic,
The power is within you Media Cell, Liberal Democratic Party of Nagaland
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Society is not only reflected by the Church but also by the kind of “politics” we live in. Politics does play an important role in how the society will be, thus it determines our Future! Each and every Individual is equally responsible for the formation of a Government. Let us not stay idle and be ignorant anymore but help promote ‘Clean Election’ by inspiring youths and old altogether, educating one another, reaching out to people and also educating our parents about the benefits of clean election for choosing the right candidate from each and every constituencies around our State. Suppose, from a constituency if a candidate is elected, who are the ones that benefits from the candidate? Say about 20-30%. What about the remaining citizens of the state. Why should there be Inequality, Favoritism and Nepotism? Are not the rest of the 70-80% equally same citizens of the state, as much as the 20-30% favored (privileged) people? Wake up, dear brothers & sisters, let us not just sit idle & watch or give
remarks and advices but be a solution to our broken society. As John F. Kennedy once said, “My fellow Americans, ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.” If we elect our MLAs by means of clean election, the common people will have more power to overthrow the corrupted elected leaders from the exposed corruptions. “The power is within you all”. We believe in our generation youths to take initiatives as most are educated. ‘We Read, We Learn and We See’ how the developed countries are! How they became one of the developed countries! How they conduct their elections! What benefits the people enjoy from their State and The Country. Let us picture The American Society & their nature of elections. During the elections, the public rather donates to the candidate of their Choice for their campaigns. We see how the elected candidates then bring development both socially and economically for the people. God has blessed us so much that we are being Spoon-Fed by The Central Government. Isn’t that blessing from above?
As The Lord said, “I gave you a land on which you had not labored, and cities which you had not built, and you have lived in them; you are eating of vineyards and olive groves which you did not plant.’ Now fear the LORD and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt, and serve the LORD.’ -Joshua 24:13-14. Let us not be just Christians by Religion or be contented with the label ‘Nagaland for Christ’, but rather be Christians by living as one with our actions reflecting Christ, so that our state will become an example and a testimony to other non-believers. Just as corruption is so open in Nagaland, so is the solution right on the face. Every Naga is a victim of unjust governance yet so fortunate that we need not worry about ‘Donating’ to the Candidates. But when it comes to electing the MLAs we should ‘Elect The Right Candidates’ through ‘Clean Election’ so that there will be ‘No Mismanagement’ but ‘Efficient’ use of the ‘Funds’ that the state receives from the Central Government. God Bless Nagaland!
The Good Sight of Bad Hanso Chang
V
Tuensang
ery often we tend to blame the luck or even God for the misfortune that we encounter with. But as we look around not all are successful and not all are failure. It is said a positive mind bears a positive result. However, most of the time we fail to evaluate about the things that went wrong and to look into the brighter sight of it. Hopes and dreams are endless & countless so I personally don't have the tendency to worry of the rough weather of life. For instance how will it be a day without night? A war without peace? A life without happiness? Hell without Heaven? To be more precise with, whatever happens in life it happens for a reason. It has its own specific purpose and we never know that purpose might be a turning point in someone's life. Once there was a man who possessed everything he needed. In this life he was a happy and wealthy man. Until one fine day everything that he had and adored the most vanished into a thin air. He could do nothing but still he remained calm and steadfast. He never complained about the tragedy he met with but rather his faith in God remained firm and unshakable. Such was the faith of Job, his life is an example of how things can get worse and can also double the joy. I wonder had Job complained about his miseries the story could have taken a different turn. As a matter of fact, there won't be a smoke without fire likewise our
bad times must have something good wrap in it. Well, I personally don't intend to suggest people how to overcome the struggles of life and become a successful person in the society. Not at all but it is just my keen interest to discuss & have a clear conscious of what is what & what is not. As compared to the past we are living in a world of science and technology. Even the lifestyle of human civilization in some way or the other has changed dramatically. But has it changed our perspective of thinking. How do I look at life? Is it just a matter of life and dead, success and failure? Or is it something else!! It is obvious that one may not look at life with the same perspective the other is looking at. Thoughts and ideas vary from person to person. We have differences but we do have some common interest in particular. However, it is also the will and determination that differentiate an individual from the other. I need not exaggerate much on the very word "will" & "determination". But as we turn the page to the history of 'Russo-Japanese' war we are left with astonishment. The only thing that comes to my mind is how was it possible? May be they were too good at martial arts. Obviously that is not the reason, but whatever the reason may be the Japanese people has had rightly set an example of will and determination. We can't always expect people to come looking for us, pushing, helping, suggesting to make every right move in our life. Sometimes we are left all alone as if like we are being
pushed into some wilderness or into some deserted island. At that very moment you need to stand on your own. You'll have to make a path by yourself so that your survival during that crucial time may prove worth. For some people it is hard to digest their very own existence and for some it is even worse. To which some try to figure out and come up with a better solution to live on and some end up blaming someone or the other for the misfortune in his/her life. Such is the nature of man and we cannot deny it. I might be talking irrelevantly but is it bad to think positively during our worse? Or are we just too tough enough to worsen it with all our bitter thoughts. A man is best remembered not by the way he dresses or his possession of wealth, name or fame. He is best remembered by his words and deeds. Therefore as far as I'm concerned with I personally don't need to count my success and failures but the concept that I have about being myself both in good and crucial times. In every worse time of your life, you just need to have the courage and strength to stand on your own with new hope, faith and believe. This is it what I feel. Here, I'm not putting into force the do's and don’ts in life neither am I trying to convince people to be sensible and reasonable. I'm just sharing my opinion from the practical point of view. And in conclusion I just want to say that whatever happens in life there is always "The Good Sight in Bad"
Lumri Throngso Naga & Keyoungkhum Kamjimong Naga
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he best way to predict your future is to create it Abraham Lincoln whenever this quotes comes to mind we can't but think /recall how important our future is, yet it is equally or perhaps more important than we give our best to the present to work out for future as the society demands .This would be true but time and again, careers and future are destroyed just because the concern authority choose to sit idle and lazy over their comfortable seats least bothering about the downtrodden and unprivileged section of society. Here we would like to lament some of the lapses and atrocities the students of Govt High school has to undergo, it been a month since 2016s HSLC and HSSLC exam were held. Many students are dreaming about their future as the educational institutions around the state has prepared
military and religious disciplines. Every member of NSCN needs to inculcate the spirit of ‘my people and my Lord’ so that he may discipline his body and mind perfectly. To sum up, discipline is the total loyalty to the nation and leadership. Every member of NSCN is exhorted and rectified through the principle of reward and punishment. The good workers are rewarded whereas the errant workers are punished so that the position of the organization is strengthened and consolidated. It is said, “Collective decision is far superior to that of the wisest dictator.” NSCN practices the collective decision making culture. Problems are analyzed among the authorities on the basis of objective information to arriving at concrete decision. Failures and achievements are evaluated objectively. The culture of collective decision making dispels the doubts and distrusts caused by non transparency in the matter of financial, political, military, administrative decision and formulation of program and policy. Collective decision making culture is the essence of democracy. NSCN embarks upon negotiation in accordance with the mandate of the people. NSCN has had consultative meetings with the people on talks consecutively for eight times. As our national movement is principlebased so our fighting and negotiation are also principle-based and that solution has to be principle-based. The historic ‘Framework Agreement’ recognizes the unique history, the identity, the sovereignty, the territories of the Nagas. It also recognizes the legitimate right of the Nagas to integration
of all Naga territories. It also says ‘coexistence of the two entities and sharesovereignty of the two entities. ’The agreement does not betray the principle. It is one of the strong foundations for amicable solutions for the Nagas at this given point of time, rejection of which will take the Nagas back to far behind of others. The ‘Framework Agreement ’will safeguard the present and the future of the Nagas. NSCN clings to the principle of self-reliance. Peoples, even individuals rise through this principle. The Scripture says, “By the sweat of your brow you will eat your food.” And “He who does not work neither shall he eat.” This doctrine of self-reliance is applied in all fields - political, economic, military, educational, cultural and science and technological. Everything comes from within. As a kingdom comes from within so also downfall of a kingdom comes from within. The Nagas will rise and shine only through the Nagas and they will be pulled down by themselves. And that you and me are the prime factors. NSCN is for the harmonious interdependent relationship with our neighboring peoples and nations on the basis of mutual respect and recognition of right. But it is opposed to the politics of isolationism and jingoism. Our neighboring people and nations should be our political and defense partners. They should also be the hinterlands of our markets and industries. We have lived with them for thousands of years and we will do so in years to come. Published by Ministry of Information & Publicity
The Exam for them for. But for more than 50 students of GHS Chessore it complete UTurn as the school has been running for past two years without a single maths and science teachers and at this very amidst a hurdle for the best this students has missed the bus. Imagine appearing for arguably one of the most crucial exam without a single chapter of either maths or science being covered! The students went ahead with their exam (who wouldn't??) but it’s Crystal clear that only some students would crawl up from among them and the remaining will end up in dreaming best for their life my question is?? What do we expect from those students deprived of privileges and rights and devoid of proper attention doctors, engineers OR scientists?? Time is money, they say but what about the year these students spend and spend in darkness??we were thought the government today are welfare government but it's a com-
plete bafflement like me to fathom why “Welfare” Whatsoever in denying some of the poorest and unprivileged students of our state, the benefit which the government ought to perform/give, requests, pending representative and pressure from various organizations went up in smoke. Education today is considered necessity and such negligence and incompetence from the part of the concern authority is regrettable. Time waits for none and we have lost two precious years running from the pillar to post. The writers has no malice or illegal in writing this piece but as a concern citizen and stakeholder of our society zoom out the facts and urge the authority to do away with lack of teachers all over the state irrespective of any particular so that our children continues their faith in the system as also to ensure a better and prosperous future. KUKNALIM
Corruption has no religion Vikali Shikhu
I
Dimapur
personally do not subscribe to the idea of dragging in Christianity when we fail to set things in order. No religion teaches corruption, Nagaland being a Christian state and Nagas' Christianity is no exception. I remember reading this line during my primary schooling in Moral Science subject "all religions are holy leading to one God". Who doesn't know the Government and its functionaries? It has become an open book and people have been reading pages after pages that some departments do not release funds unless the deal is based on percentage. What is this suicidal and hijacking tendency of patriarchy system of father department to mother department to implementing agencies if you read between the lines? Why do public invoke useless RTIs but can't hammer out the nail? The pathetic side of RTIs in Nagaland is that some people make a good profit over RTI business that is supposedly a tool to combat corruption. Another grade of people are the office Babus and Babunis. Hold your breath and imagine your source of income at the rate of Grade III basic scale pay. For you, Rome was built in a day. We STs are exempted from tax and there is no system to check our illegal wealth. That is how our fortune increases in manifold and acquiring wealth like winning a Jackpot is the way of life for many. You are a proud owner of palatial building within 48 hours and own luxury cars, forgetting the thatch house you lived just 24 hours ago. How about NGOs run by public leaders robbing the State and Central Governments? How many Theologians-run NGOs are listed under tainted category? How many School Management Committees are transparent in managing the Government school affairs? How about the GBs and VDBs
implementing NREGA in the villages? How about the implementing agencies of other flagship programs and various schemes? How about some people holding dual posts? How about the employees keeping proxies? How about some Government officers who supersede seniors through political support? How about back door appointees draining state coffer? Many back door appointees demand service regularization w.e.f. date of appointment and fight the Government in High Court. Come on, look back at your appointment order. What is the wrong there when the Government takes time to regularize your service as per norm? Weren't you appointed as an ad-hoc because you didn't face interview? Backdoor appointees do not mind no matter how odd it is to venture outside service rules because money talks and money reigns right from the start of their appointment process. Our Government on the other hand has a history of losing endless cases to petitioners. With the verdict passing in favour of backdoor appointees, genuine employees who were earlier appointed through open competition succumbs to worst stagnation in promotion. The reward of being law abiding and proper channel appointee is pathetically pathetic. Government's habit of losing court cases is directly encouraging back door appointment in Nagaland. Corruption is at its best at all levels. The heights of embarrassment is when you see some corrupt people shouting on top of their voices by virtue of holding certain post in tribal bodies. Better be a Holy Devil than to be a Dirty Angel. If we have some corrupt people leading Hohos or Tribal bodies, we are sorry to say that you have no moral authority to lead the masses. Do not expect respect from people because you have not earned it. This is a small world and the reason is, the world is a global village. Lead by example and with a clean image in or-
der to prove your leadership. We crucify the Government every single day, fry the politicians, grind bureaucrats, steam and boil the HODs with every breath we take. How about the general public and public leaders? How clean are we? We can't be honest with ourselves and truthful to the Government in paying even a mere electricity bill. I remember some prominent citizens’ names being published in local dailies by the Department of Power for power theft (hooking) in the recent past. Let us make sure that our fingers are clean while pointing at others. Some people wouldn't be transparent even over 1000 bucks if entrusted to manage. They are clean due to lack of opportunity. We need to gargle our mouth and throat before we shout with a set of 32 snow white teeth. Let it be public leaders or the Government officers, the one who fear God the most rob department the most, the one who praise God the most deduct fund the most, the one who preach in the church the most demand the most and the one who talk about Bible the most corrupt the most. The problem is not with Christianity. If Christianity is a solution to corruption, Nagaland with 99.9% would be declared 'No Corruption Zone' in the map of India. But Nagaland state already has Deduction Kings, Percentage Queens, Prince of 50-50 share and the Under-table Lords. Some think corruption is nobody's fight but that of ACAUT’s. Then who is ACAUT and what is ACAUT? To me, ACAUT is a collective noun and it is none other than I, YOU, WE and THEY. Corruption is a battle that starts with I and ME. If all is not well with me, how do 'I' point at 'YOU'? If all is not well with us, how do 'WE' check 'THEM'? The crusade against corruption will be a reality only if we have a good command over corruption. Our own life is our testimony.
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.
Kuknalim
Thursday 23•03•2017
EntErtainmEnt
Piano recital by Noel De La Rosa on March 27
P
iano recital by Noel De La Rosa, the Director of studies cum Piano teacher of Nagaland Conservatory of Music to be held on March 27 in Northern Lights Chapel at Full Nagaland Conservatory of Music Campus, Nagarjan Road, Dimapur , Nagaland. Nagaland being known for Music around the Country has very little performance platform for Western Classical Music hence Nagaland Conservatory of Music aims to promote Western Classical music to Naga musicians and music - lovers by organising Concerts and Recitals. Noel De La Rosa is an accomplished musician trained in the most prestigious conservatories in the Philippines and Austria. He has won in several international Piano competitions such as Asian International Opera Competition, Hamamatsu petition. He will be performing piano pieces International Piano Competition, Chopin International Piano Competition (finalist) Franz Schubert, Johannes Brahms , Roband Jose Iturbi International Piano Com- ert Schumann and Frederick Chopin.
Now ShowiNg revIseD TICKeT rATes (silver) : `.120 (Gold) : `. 200 (recliner) : `. 400
10:20 AM & 05:30 PM Hito Shohe, a dog trainer and pet store owner proudly showcasing his French Bulldog and Indian Champion that won the all Indian dog show in Kolkata and Guwahati organized by Kennel Club of India.
KPop boy group iKon geared to make a comeback 10:00 AM, 03:00 PM & 08:15 PM 03862-237226 Ticket Counter (09:00 AM - 09:00 PM)
WWW.BooKMYsHoW.CoM (ID: PLAYBox DIMAPur)
Ward 5 (6) Burma Camp, Landmark - Near J.K Hospital Dimapur. Power House.
Hillstar NOW SHOWING
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fter their successful Japan tour, YG Entertainment’s iKon is set for a comeback sometime before May, KPop Herald reports. iKon will be treating “iKonics” to two title tracks writ-
ten by the members, YG Entertainment said on Tuesday. The group’s successful Japan tour collected a total of 442,00 attendees from Osaka, Fukuoka, and Yokohama, their agency added. iKon treated
their Japanese iKonics with their hit songs like “Dumb & Dumber,” for which iKon won the “Best New Urge from Meghalaya will be performing at a concert called ‘SUPPORT’ in KoArtist” award during last year’s Ja- Dossers hima on March 25 at Terrace, West Road Mall, Jail Colony. The concert will be held from pan Record Awards. 7:00pm to 9:00pm. Rodeo Clowns from Nagaland will be the opening act. Tickets are
aa gaya hero
Source: inquirer available on call at 9862251574.
Pearl Jam guitarist Mike Mccready preps polaroid photo book
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cCready has carried his Poladroid camera on countless Pearl Jam tours and throughout his own travels, documenting everything from concerts, art and architecture to candid shots of friends and family. The book will fittingly feature a slew of celebrity candids including pictures of Neil Young, Questlove, Paul McCartney, Sting, Dave Grohl, Bono, Jack White, Lady Gaga, Dustin Hoffman, Venus Williams and more. The book's title refers to a recurring character in McCready's pictures — a
Mr. Potato toy the guitarist also hauls around with him. Pearl Jam spent much of 2016 on the road celebrating their 25th anniversary, while McCready also reunited with his early grunge supergroup, Temple of the Dog, for a handful of shows. Pearl Jam are now gearing up for their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Earlier this month, the band announced that they would invite all five of their former drummers to the induction ceremony after a minor controversy. When the 2017
inductees were named, only Ten's Dave Krusen and current drummer Matt Cameron were listed alongside rest of the band, leaving out Matt Chamberlain, Dave Abbruzzese and Jack Irons. Pearl Jam will perform at the April 7th Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. It's the group's only scheduled 2017 date, though Eddie Vedder will play a string of solo shows in Europe this summer.
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Source: Ibtimes
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Machine
Source: Rolling Stone
Bharti Singh and fiancé Haarsh Salman has always stood by becomes highest-paid celebrity couple me as friend: Raveena Tandon ance reality show Nach Baliye is set to entertain its viewers with its eighth season and the show will see some of the high-profile celebrities competing against each other to win the coveted trophy. According to latest report, Bharti Singh and her fiancé Haarsh Limbachiyaa has charged a whopping amount to participate in the show, making the couple the highest paid participants in the season. Earlier, there were reports that Divyanka Tripathi and husband Vivek Dahiya would be paid a huge money per episode but Bharti surpassed them by charging Rs 30 lakh per episode, Bollywood Life reported. Besides these two couples, Dipika Kakar of Sasural Simar Ka fame will participate along with her fiancé Shoaib Ibrahim. Rohan Mehra of Yeh Rishta Kya Kehlata Hai fame with girlfriend Kanchi Singh and Keith Sequeira and Rochelle Rao will also compete on Nach Baliye 8. Monalisa, who was a part of Bigg Boss 10, will take part along with husband Vikrant Singh Rajput. Other celebrity contestants who have been finalised for Nach Baliye 8 are: Drashti Dhami and husband Neeraj Khemka, Naagin actor Arjun Bijlani and wife Neha Swamy, Vikas Manaktala and Guunjan Walia, Karan Rajpal and Shivalika Oberoi and RJ Preetam and Prabjot. Ace choreographer Saroj Khan will be the judge during the season along with Sonakshi Sinha. Terence Lewis is was also said to be in talks to take the judges' seat.
10:00 AM
ctress Raveena Tandon says superstar Salman Khan -- opposite whom she made her film debut with the 1991 entertainer "Patthar Ke Phool" -- has always stood by her in times of need when others turned their back. During an appearance on Zee Classic's "My Life My Story", Raveena spoke about her equation with Salman, read a statement. She said: "Salman and I used to fight a lot on trivial issues... We have fought over a bubble gum! But honestly, Salman is a fantastic person at heart. If I have to name one person who has stood by my side as a friend, it would be him. "All others turn their back in times of need, but Salman has always fulfilled his promise as a friend. He was always there for me when I needed him." The actress, who will next be seen on screen in "Maatr - The Mother", was born to director Ravi Tandon, but she never wanted to get launched by him. On "My Life My Story", Raveena revealed that while Salman was looking for his leading lady in "Patthar Ke Phool", he na for the film. Raveena then agreed to had visited the sets of her ad film to evalu- do the film. ate her work. What followed was a series The episode featuring Raveena will of calls from Salim Khan and G.P. Sippy to air on Saturday. her father, asking him to convince RaveeSource: IANS
12:30 PM | 08:00 PM
Badrinath ki dulhania
03:00 PM
Beauty and the Beast
05:40 PM
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Thursday 23•03•2017
SPORTS
THE MORUNG EXPRESS
Bayavu Giants, Diphu XI enter Silver Cup semi Our Correspondent Kohima | March 22
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Lower Bayavu Giants and Diphu XI today confirmed their semi-final berths in the 8th Silver Cup T20 Cricket Tournament being organised by Nepali Baptist Church Youth Department at Jakhama Local Ground, Kohima. Playing the first quarterfinal, which was reduced to 18 overs, Bayavu Giants defeated Peraciezie Royals by 14 runs. Put to bat first, Lower Bayavu Giants set a target of 125 being bundled out in 17.2 overs. Skipper Tapitu contributed highest with 28 runs and followed by Bipenkar with 23. Peraciezie Royals bowler Renchamo and Saroj took 3 and 2 wickets each respectively. However, chasing the target of 125 runs, Peraciezie batsman managed 111 runs losing 8 wickets in 18 overs. Amhalie scored highest 34 runs while Nzanthung added 23. Lower Bayavu Giants’ Vikato who took 4 wickets and chipped in with 15 runs with the bat was adjudged man of the match. In a closely contested second quarterfinal, Diphu
SS Alam of Royal Tourniquets receiving the MoM award from former convener of the tournament John Thakuri on March 22.
XI beat Royal Tourniquets by 7 runs. Diphu XI after being put into bat posted 146/7 in 20 overs with Sardali contributing 37 runs. Tourniquets’ bowler SS Alam claimed four wickets. Chasing the target, Royal Tourniquets fell short of balls as they managed to score 139 runs losing 6 wickets – short by just 6 runs. Diphu XI bowler Mridul took 2 wickets. Akumdong struck 26 runs. SS Alam, who had
earlier picked 4 wickets, was also the highest runscorer of the match with a fine inning of 65 runs. He was later adjudged man of the match. Alam is also the holder of Red Cap (Highest Run-scorer) of the tournament with 132 runs. March 23 matches KODH CC vs Radiant CC @ 9:00 am Whiskers CC Dmp vs Shillong Mavericks @ 12:00 noon
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The 9 Assam Rifles and local youths of Kezo town of Chakabama village celebrated Assam Rifles Day by playing a friendly football match at Chakbama on March 20. Around 29 youths from Kezo Basa village and Kezo Town participated in the event to commemorate the Assam Rifles Day.
Warriors win 'Curry Bowl'
Los AngeLes, MArch 22 (AFP): Stephen Curry scored 17 points to win his latest on-court duel with elder brother Seth on Tuesday as the Golden State Warriors notched a fifth straight victory with a rout of the Dallas Mavericks. The Western Conference leaders were rarely in trouble as they romped to a 112-87 win at the American Airlines Center in Texas to improve to 57-14 in a game dubbed the "Curry Bowl." The game marked the sixth time the Curry siblings have faced each other on an NBA court -- and it was Warriors star Steph who came out on top. "Just knowing that we were going to be out there for extended minutes playing against each other is a surreal kind of feeling; seeing your brother, who you've been battling with since you can remember, out on the NBA floor," Steph Curry said afterwards. "It's amazing to see what he has done here in Dallas, taking his game to the next level and showing them what he is really about." Klay Thompson led a balanced offense with 23 points, while Curry added nine assists to his points haul. But it was the Warriors' defensive display that left coach Steve Kerr beaming with pride. "When you're out on the road you have to defend, you have to maintain a really good defense to win road games, and I think we've done that," Kerr said. "In the past several seasons our team has been in the top five in the NBA defensively, and obviously we've got plenty of shooters and scorers." The Dubs' win keeps them firmly in control of
Golden State Warriors forward Draymond Green (23) and Zaza Pachulia, right, defend as Dallas Mavericks guard Seth Curry (30) goes up for a shot in the second half of an NBA basketball game, Tuesday, March 21, in Dallas. (AP Photo)
their destiny at the top of the conference. Nearest rivals San Antonio improved to 54-16 with a come-from-behind win over the Minnesota Timberwolves. LaMarcus Aldridge scored 26 points as the Spurs fought back from a nine-point halftime deficit to claim a 100-93 win. Kawhi Leonard contributed 22 points to back up Aldridge while Spanish veteran Pau Gasol scored 11 points off the bench as the Spurs claimed a second straight win. Karl-Anthony Towns had 25 points and 14 rebounds for Minnesota to complete his 53rd doubledouble of the season. - Stormy clash In the Eastern Confer-
ence, DeMar DeRozan's 42 points stole the show as Toronto sealed a 122-120 overtime win over the Chicago Bulls. A stormy clash saw Chicago's Robin Lopez and Toronto's Serge Ibaka both be ejected during the third quarter after a brawl erupted. Lopez finished the game with 12 points while Ibaka had 16 points before the dismissals. "It felt great, in the fact that win, lose or draw, I felt we were scrapping, competing and that's all you can ask for from your team at this time of year," Raptors coach Dwane Casey said. Lopez and Ibaka later played down the exchange of blows that led to their ejections.
"I think it was just a really physical game for everybody, it just kind of hit a flashpoint," Lopez said. "He was playing physical basketball and he got frustrated," Ibaka said. "We started to push each other like always happens when there's contact and then he threw the punch. Like man, I'm just going to defend myself." The Bulls had appeared poised to grab an important win after going 15 points clear in the third quarter. But the Raptors fought back brilliantly with DeRozan crowning his performance with a go-ahead basket in overtime. - Sidelined? Elsewhere Tuesday Miami's Hassan Whiteside scored 23 points but suf-
UEFA considers squad limits, transfer market changes
LisBon, MArch 22 (reuters): UEFA will consider introducing squad limits and changes to the transfer system to prevent European teams hoarding players and stem the growing gap between rich and poor clubs, its president Aleksander Ceferin said on Wednesday. The Slovenian lawyer, elected as the head of European soccer's governing body last September, told a conference in Lisbon that UEFA needed to address a "decrease in competitive balance" within European club football. The last few years have seen the increasing dominance of a few elite
clubs like Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich. Europe's smaller leagues complain that big teams cream off their players at a young age, only to immediately send them on loan elsewhere, while the likes of Ajax Amsterdam and Benfica, once major powers, have effectively become feeder clubs. "We do have to examine new mechanisms like luxury taxes and in particular sporting criteria like squad limitations and fair transfer rules, to avoid player hoarding and excessive concentration of talent within a few teams," said Ceferin. "We do need to assess whether
BCCI doubles player salaries, hikes match fees BengALuru, MArch 22 (reuters): India's cricket team have been given a significant pay rise, with the world's richest cricket board (BCCI) announcing on Wednesday that it had doubled salaries for the 2016-17 season and hiked match fees across all three of the game's formats. Players in the uppermost 'A' category have been put on a retainer of 20 million Indian rupees ($305,000) for the period ending Sept. 20, 2017, up from 10 million rupees last season. That is still well short of the 700,000 pounds ($870,800) retainers that England's top cricketers, such as Alastair Cook or Joe Root are on, according to media reports, or the A$1.12 million dollars ($858,816) for Australia captain Steve Smith. Top Indian cricketers also receive a match fee for each international appearance, and many benefit from playing in the lucrative Indian Premier League (IPL). The BCCI said it had seven players on Grade A contracts, up from four last season, with Cheteshwar Pujara, Ravindra Jadeja and Murali Vijay joining captain Virat Kohli, former skipper MS Dhoni, off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin and batsman Ajinkya Rahane. Indian players on Grade B contracts, such as batsman Rohit Sharma and pace bowlers Mohammed Shami, Ishant Sharma and Umesh Yadav will earn 10 million rupees each and Grade C players will earn 5 million rupees apiece. Notable exceptions from the list of players awarded contracts include off-spinner Harbhajan Singh and lefthanded batsman Suresh Raina. Players also top up their income in the IPL Twenty20 competition, with the country's media reporting that skipper Kohli, who captains Royal Challengers Bangalore, earned 15 million rupees from the league last year. England all-rounder Ben Stokes was bought for a staggering $2.17 million by Rising Pune Supergiants ahead of this season's IPL. [nL4N1G52JI] The BCCI also increased match fees for the national team, with players now earning 1.5 million rupees per test match, or three times as much as they did last season. Match fees for both one-day internationals and Twenty20 internationals have been doubled, to 600,000 rupees and 300,000 rupees, respectively. The changes have been backdated to Oct. 1, 2016, the BCCI said.
the transfer market as it operates today is the best we can do? We cannot be afraid to touch it." Ceferin did not give any further details on what he meant by luxury taxes, but added that UEFA could work with global soccer body FIFA to change the transfer market or do so via its own licensing regulations. ENTIRE PYRAMID Referring to the difference between the biggest clubs and the rest, he said: "We cannot allow the greatness of some to overshadow and drown out the least of us. "If we allow gaps to become too great we will be neglecting those who have little opportunity.
"We face a threat that the bottom becomes unstable because the rest of the world is focused on the top and our policies must reflect the stance that we value the entire pyramid." However, he did not offer any concrete proposals as to how this could be done, saying instead that UEFA needed to "assess and understand the current situation and some potential trends. "UEFA has a duty to protect the whole of football and not just the elite and not just within our competitions," he added. A month before Ceferin's election, UEFA announced changes
to its flagship Champions League competition, giving more places to teams from Europe's biggest four leagues -- Spain, England, Germany and Italy - and cutting those allocated to the rest. He did not specifically refer to this in his speech, though Ceferin has previously said he would not attempt to reverse the changes which will apply to the 2018-21 cycle. He added that UEFA would set up a new division entitled "Protection of the Game" to tackle doping, corruption violence and matchfixing. "UEFA will soon have an “army” of people to fight this," he said.
Call for calm as 'toxicity' grows in India-Australia Test series
new DeLhi, MArch 22 (AFP): A leading Indian commentator has hit out at the "toxicity" blighting the series against Australia, and called for both sides to show restraint before the winner-takes-all final Test begins Saturday. Harsha Bhogle fears that the glorification of aggressive on-field behaviour by media on both sides and passions boiling over could harm Test cricket's reputation with the series on a knifeedge at 1-1. The latest barbs have seen India skipper Virat Kohli dubbed "the Donald Trump of sport" in one Australian newspaper and former Test bowler Geoff Lawson accusing Kohli of acting like "your worst behaved player". India's newspapers fired back with the Hindustan Times accusing Australian media of a relentless "hate campaign" throughout the series. "Friends in Australia tell me they are perturbed by the toxicity this series has generated. Cricket lovers in India saying so too," Bhogle said on Twitter. "If we have to use toxicity and divisiveness to spread our game, we are using a short-term approach that can only be harmful," added the veteran Indian TV cricket analyst. "I am particularly perturbed by the fact that some of us in the media are promoting this divisiveness and taking sides to spread ill-will." - Rancour inflamed Tensions have been ramped up since Kohli stopped just short of accusing Australian captain Steve Smith of cheating in the aftermath of the second Test in Bangalore, which India won to
fered an injury as the Heat beat Phoenix 112-97. Whiteside was forced to leave the game late in the fourth quarter after an attempted block of a Marquese Chriss shot left him nursing a nasty cut on his middle finger. Whiteside later received 13 stitches in the wound, placing a question mark on his availability at a crucial time of the season. Miami, who face Toronto on Thursday, are already without injured guard Dion Waiters, who missed Tuesday's game following an ankle sprain. "Hassan, we'll find out," Miami coach Erik Spoelstra said. "We'll know more (Wednesday). Those minutes that he played, he was extremely impactful."
DDCA Inter School Tourney: Zakiesato, SD Jain, HMC register wins DiMAPur, MArch 22 (Mexn): Zakiesato HSS, SD Jain HSS and HMC School won their respective matches on the third day of the ongoing Dimapur District Inter School (Under-16) Cricket Tournament being organized by the Dimapur District Cricket Assosiation and played at Nagaland Cricket Stadium, Sovima. In the first match, Zakiesato MHSS crushed Railway High School by 9 wickets. RHS won the toss and elected to bat were bundled out in 11.5 overs for a paltry 33 runs. Kamrun ripped through the RHS batsmen claiming 5 wickets while Vicky took 3 wickets. An unbeaten 20 from Kandan helped ZMHSS achieve the target in just 4.4 overs losing one wicket. In the second match, SD Jain defeated Christian HSS by 3 wickets. CHSS winning the toss, elected to bat and put on 98 runs losing all their wickets in 15.4 overs. Sijal picked 3 wickets for SDJHSS. SD Jain achieved the target in 19 overs losing 7 wickets. Sumit Paul scored an unbeaten 27 and was aided by Ajay who scored 17 runs. Shahid claimed 4 wickets for CHSS. In the last match of the day, HMC School defeated MGM HSS by 11 runs. MGM winning the toss put HMC into bat with the latter scoring 68 runs in 15.1 overs. Abhishek claimed 4 wickets for MGM while Alezo claimed 2 wickets. In the run chase, HMC’s Nashim and Longtusaba picked 3 wickets each as MGM HSS was bundled out for 57 runs in 10.3 overs. March 23 matches Bronson School vs Little Star HSS @ 8:00 am RJHSS vs Railway HS @ 11:00 am CHSS vs G. Mhaisu School @ 2:00 pm
level the series at 1-1. The rancour was inflamed in the drawn third Test in Ranchi as Australia batted out the fifth day for a draw and allrounder Glenn Maxwell was accused of mocking Kohli's shoulder injury. Now the Daily Telegraph newspaper says Kohli is behaving like a bully and accused the Indian cricket board and match officials of letting him get away it. "Kohli has become the Donald Trump of world sport," Ben Horne wrote in his column in the Daily Telegraph. "The Indian captain is a law unto himself with no one – not even the ICC or his own board – holding him accountable for his continual perpetuation of fake news." Horne was referring to Kohli's assertion, without offering evidence, that Smith's look up to the dressing room for guidance in Bangalore over whether to
review an lbw decision was not a oneoff. The ICC brought Smith and Kohli together for a clear-the-air meeting after that Test, where Smith claimed the incident was a "brain fade". And Lawson slated the Indian skipper for not displaying enough maturity. "As a leader and as a captain of a cricket team where you’ve got lots of responsibilities, you’ve got to show more gravitas and responsibility than this. These sorts of actions are those of your worst behaved player," he told Fox Sports. Bhogle said it was time the media stopped fanning the flames before lasting damage was done to Test cricket. "A lot of us entered this profession because we love sport and had the opportunity to talk/write about it. We didn't enter to spread toxicity," he tweeted.
ICFAI’s Annual Sports Week underway DiMAPur, MArch 22 (Mexn): The Annual Sports Week of ICFAI University Nagaland (IUN) kicked off at the IUN Campus in Sovima with Jt. Registrar Khrieketou Kuotsu as the special guest. In the inaugural programme, Kuotsu stressed on the benefits of games and sports opining that it offers both physical and mental benefits. He also encouraged the students to participation in true spirit of gamesmanship adding that there should not be overemphasis on winning. Students of the university have been divided into four groups viz., Black Panthers (Blue House), Raccon (Red House), Artic Wolves (Green House) and Vicious Vipers (Yellow House). The three-day Sport week will culminate at Sovima Village ground on March 24, a press release from the university’s Sports Officer Neisal Theyo informed.
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